Please have patience....this was the first story in this fandon I wrote.....and I used 3 couples I loved in the show...and made the other one up, cause I thought they would've made a nice couple then......The main attraction will be Spuffy, followed by Wes/willow....the other two had their moments as I worked my way to getting the others established. I hope I do not bore all of you with my long winded story telling. Thank you to all that read....reviews are nice, but only wanted if you wish to share them....



Wesley prayed he would find Spike in their room sober and alone. He still was haunted with visions of Spike right after the Dru and Angel fiasco, and they were not pretty. The women resembled the alcohol- hard and rough, since the bars were hole in the walls, no one ever heard about.

Wes mumbled as he put the key card in the door lock. "Please do not enlighten me further on the one hundred and one ways of Kama Sutra, Spike style."

The first thing he noticed was the blue TV screen lighting up the room. The second thing that caught his attention made him sigh in relief, there was Spike sprawled out on the bed alone and still fully clothed.

"Thank God for small miracles."

It did not take long for him to start to worry after he closed the door, and moved further into the room. Spike normally was a light sleeper, and the closing of the door did not the rouse the man lying on the bed at all.

The opened bottle of Jack Daniels leaning against the bedside table, looking like it was about the topple over, and the amount missing from the bottle made him look more closely to see if the man was breathing.

"Spike, what the bloody hell have you done?" Wesley growled as he moved toward his very pissed friend to try and wake him up. "Damn you Spike, you promised me you'd never do this again."

Wesley reached down and grabbed Spike by his shoulders, and roughly shook him. "Wake up you wanker, so I can kick your arse. Come on Spike wake up and tell me what happened to make you do this."

Spike mumbled, "The…tape…Angel…tape." Before he passed out again.

Wesley looked down at this friend and knew he would not be able to do this alone. He knew Spike was not going to like what he was about to do, as he again observed the intoxicated fool. "But you asked for this, just remember that," he glared down and told Spike before he gently lay the man back down on the bed.

Wes picked up the phone and dialed the Giles' room number, praying Jenny was not the one to answer the phone.

"Hello," Rupert answered the phone, wondering if it was Wes calling to tell him that Spike was in some kind of trouble.

"Thank God it's you," Wesley snorted. "Can you come over and help me with Spike? Don't say anything that would cause Jenny to worry and want to come with you."

"I will think of something," Giles spoke into the phone trying to keep his voice low, so his wife would not here him talk. She currently was in the girls’ room tucking them in for the night.

Wesley hung up the phone and turned to look at his stubborn, hardheaded, idiot of a roommate, best friend. "So help me God, Spike, I will make your life hell if you think I'll let you fall back into that lifestyle."

He turned to set up the bathroom for the baptizing, when again he noticed the TV and VCR's power was on. He moved closer to the equipment and then reached out and hit play on the VCR, wondering what Spike was watching as he drank himself in to oblivion.

His eyes grew large as he stumbled back and sat down on the bed. A part of him wanted to turn off what he was seeing, while the other part knew it was important he knew everything that was on this tape.

Quickly he put it all together, seeing the date and time on the tape. Once the person behind the camera identified himself, he knew if it was the last thing he ever did, Angel would pay for every evil deed he had committed against Spike. "Might even take a few accomplices with him and send them all to Hell."

It took several minutes of knocking on the door to pull him out of his state of shock. Standing up and moving to turn off the tape, he felt like he was moving in slow motion.

Giles knew something bad had happened, seeing the paleness and pain on the other man's face, when the door finally opened. He began to worry, when no one had answered his knocking. Was preparing to call the front desk and have someone come and open the door.

"What has happened?" Giles asked, his voice carrying that ‘in charge’ vibe to it.

"Giles," Wesley tried to talk, but could not find the words to answer the other man's question.

Giles pushed his way through and noticed Spike lying still on the bed not moving. He slowly walked toward the bed, praying that the young man was breathing.

"Thank God he's breathing," he whispered, as he noticed the steady rise and fall of the other man's chest. "Why do you look as if you've been told the end of the world is upon us?" Giles asked as he turned and looked at the other man with a look of determination on his face.

Wesley tried to shake himself mentally but found he could only walk over to the VCR and start the tape again. He felt he had no choice, especially if he wanted to take down Angel.

Giles looked at the young man confused at first until the tape began to play and then he couldn't stop the swearing from coming out of his mouth. "That bastard," he snarled as he watched Angel and Harmony having sex.

"I think there is more than this one time," Wesley finally found his, wanting to stop the tape. His gut told him there were some very important things about to be revealed. "It would not surprise me if he didn't record other Harmony moments, and a few of Dru as well."

"I would not put it past him to have put them on this tape," Giles looked down, wanting to find Angel and let the man know what if felt like to be on the receiving end of his fist, several times over.

"I agree," Wesley nodded, neither man paying close attention to the tape as it ran.

"Killing the bastard would be too good for him." Giles started to pace the room as his anger mounted, as he heard the couple on the tape. They kept making derogatory comments, about Spike. They continued to say how far superior Angel was when compared to him, especially in the bedroom.

Wesley turned away and looked over at Spike as his mind started picturing ways he could torture Mr. O'Connor. "Yes, I agree, death would be too easy and no real justice served as I see it.”

The deadly tone of Pryce's voice alerted Giles that Wesley was close to taking matters into his own hands. He agreed something needed done concerning their manipulative vengeful co-worker, but it would have to be a well thought out plan to make it work and work well.

"Wes, ole chap, let us deal with helping Spike at the moment, and then we can discuss what needs to be done about Angel." Giles moved closer and placed his hand on the other man's left shoulder.

"Yes, Spike comes first," Wesley whispered. "I had planned on a rather rude wake up for the drunken idiot."

At that time they heard a new voice enter the room and turned to see that Angel had indeed added a rendezvous with Dru in the mix. Giles stalked over toward shelving unit, and shut off the VCR.

"I gather your plans included a fully clothed cold shower and some room service black coffee?" Giles asked as he took off his glasses and started to clean them.

"Yes, but I have changed my mind. They now include partially undressing the man and tucking him in for the night. Have a glass of water and some aspirin at the bedside, for when he wakes up in the morning with that killer hangover." Wesley sighed as he looked over at Giles. "I can't leave him alone."

"I perfectly understand," Giles smiled reassuringly. "I will convey to the ladies you've decided to retire early."

"What will you tell Jenny?" Wesley gave the older man a worried look, as they started to work together to make Spike as comfortable as they could without removing all of his clothes.

"The truth," Giles shrugged. "I cannot lie about this to my wife, but then again she has to ask me first," Rupert winked.

Wesley nodded, "I agree you should tell her if she should ask. I'm just not sure how Spike will take her mothering of him."

Giles chuckled as he turned to observe his friend passed out on the bed, unaware they knew about Angel and the tape. "I think he will do just fine for he will see first hand how protective she can be when someone she cares about needs it."

Wes smiled as he realized it was something that Spike had missed growing up. “He will need that. His one regret was growing up without a mother most of all."

"Take care of yourself as well." Giles patted Wesley on the back, since they had finally gotten Spike undressed down to his pants, removing everything else, and then placed him under the covers. "Call if you need anything."

"I will," Wesley replied as he followed Giles to the door. "Tomorrow will be interesting."

Giles snorted as he turned around, "Oh, I would say so. I will have my hands full keeping my wife from pushing Captain Idiot off the ship."

"I’m thinking it could end up like the game Clue." Wesley for the first time had a small smile on his face. "The Watcher did it in the Princess Theatre with the Orb of Oasis shoved up his rectal passage."

"I'm sure we could sell that version on E-bay." Giles tried very hard not to laugh before turning to leave, but failed- his deep chuckle drifted back down the hall, as he walked toward his room.

Wesley leaned his head against the now closed door. "So help me God, Angel, you will pay greatly for this."

*******

Jenny wanted so badly to follow her husband to Wes and Spike's room. She was sure the phone call was from Wes, and that it was not good news. She knew it concerned the blonde boy wonder that had worked his way into her heart. She just hoped he had not fallen back into his drinking.

The first time she met Spike, she had seen the lost little boy inside the man, looking to be part of a family. The moment she heard of how he'd grown up in an orphanage, she had taken a deep interest in his life.

Wesley was a different story; his needs were different. He needed to be aware that he'd make the right decision concerning his life choices. His parents needed to be taken to task for abandoning such a gifted young man. Her heart broke when she had learned about his father disowning him, and how the rest of the family fell in line.

She felt the need to see her girls again, to reassure herself they were safe and warm and tucked in the bed, just as children should be at this time of night. The one thing she had made her husband promise her was- no matter what, he would make sure the girls knew how much he loved them. Even if one day, they could not live together anymore, he would make sure his girls knew he loved them the same.

The first thing she did was softly kiss the top of their heads and whisper, "Love you."

She had decided to call Willow and Buffy after Giles had left, and take a rain check on the buffet. She would tell them that since coming back to the room she found herself too tired and decided to call it a night.

The spot next to her youngest was open, and inviting, as she moved to lie next to Allyson on the bed. Her baby never minded when her mother needed to cuddle. In fact, a few times she had come into the master bedroom and crawled in bed with her mother to do the same.

Jenny felt her eyes getting heavy but continued to fight it as long as she could, before she lost the battle and fell asleep snuggled up next to her daughter. She did not hear when her husband came into the room and watched his girls with a loving smile on his face. Jenny did not hear her husband leave the cabin as she continued sleep.

*******

Buffy and Willow sat at the table and enjoyed the food on their plate, neither one noticed the blonde woman watching them closely. Darla kept looking for Angel to appear, causing her to jump whenever she saw a tall dark haired husky male enter the dinning room.

She felt so bad for helping Angel, she wondered if she could possibly get away with alerting Buffy to what was going on without getting caught. His retribution would cost her everything. 'But could I live with myself, hurting others to protect my stupidity?' she thought to herself, realizing her husband might forgive her trespasses since he had left her at the time to find himself.

"Hmmm, this is good," Buffy sighed, enjoying her chocolate Mousse. "I know this is good for you, no calories, and I will not be wearing it on my hips come tomorrow."

"Oh, yes, no packing on the poundage food item on my plate." Willow giggled as she bit into the chocolate covered strawberry dipped in whipped cream.

"Excuse me, but could I possibly have a private word with you?" Darla asked Buffy quickly, keeping her eyes on the look out for Angel. "I just can't talk to you here. Meet me in the explorer's lounge, say, in ten minutes."

"Aren't you Darla?" Willow asked.

"Yes, please make sure you aren't followed," Darla looked hard and long at Buffy. "Especially Angel! You need to avoid and stay away from him. Meet me in the lounge and I will tell you everything I know."

Buffy could tell the woman was anxious about being caught talking to her. "Okay, ten minutes."

"Great," Darla nodded before leaving quickly, checking the room making sure, Angel had not somehow, snuck in the room without her seeing him.

"Buffy, do you have any idea what she wants?" Willow asked her friend with a worried look upon her face.

"I think I might and it just might have to do with what happened today in the elevator." Buffy's mind started to kick in gear as the events of the day again began to play in her head. "I just never thought too much about it, but it was rather a weird coincidence that Angel happened to be in the same hallway at the same time as Spike."

"Do you think he is up to something?" Willow asked, getting the same vibes as her friend that Angel was not playing fair.

"Yes, I think he is very up on the up to something." Buffy looked over at her best friend and bit her lower lip before continuing. "I'm beginning to think Mr. Not Such An Angel as his name states, played me today, causing me to react the way I did."

"Oh, goodness, that's really not nice of him," Willow whispered. "I guess we had better get a move on then and hear what Darla has to say."

"I think you’re right." Buffy looked at her friend and let an evil little grin appear. "And if she tells me anything like I suspect, Angel had better be prepared to suffer."

"Oh Buffy, be careful. I mean he is famous and can pay to have you killed," Willow gasped, as she stood and followed her friend out of the dinning room.

"Honestly, Willow, he is just a man and he can fall just like the ordinary men of the world can," Buffy laughed. "Especially if the right woman is the one to give the push that sends him over the edge."

"I'm with you, don't worry," Willow nodded; neither of them noticed that they had a shadow following them.

*******

Giles entered the dining room and watched Darla approach and talk with Buffy and Willow. Her short conversation mostly was directed at Buffy, which alerted him that something important was being said. He wasn't sure if Darla was working with Angel, so he decided to watch the two women and see if they made any attempt to follow Darla from the room.

He had seen Angel flirting with the trollop that had accosted Wesley at the cocktail party the night before. By the looks of things, she was about to get one of the celebrities in her bed on this trip.

He kept back and followed the two young women as they left the dinning room and headed toward the elevators. Bowing his head as he walked past them, hoping they'd say something that would tell him where they were going. He smiled when he heard them asking one of them mention the explorer's lounge. 'Yes, the fates are in our corner tonight,' Giles thought to himself as he continued to walk away, knowing now where he needed to go.

*******

Lorne sat at the bar feeling depressed, he had not seen his blonde buttercup since dinner. He had wanted to use the excuse that he needed to talk to him about his behavior earlier to get him alone. The more he thought about it the more upset he became.

"Hey, bossman," Cordy greeted her boss as she slapped him on the shoulder. "I hope you’re not still brooding about stud boy."

"I'm not brooding."

"Yes you are, brooding over someone that will not give you the light of day, or the dark of night." Cordy shrugged. "If he is gay or even bi, then I'm the new Mae West and you will kiss the ground I walk on."

"You'd be surprised, little Missy," Lorne growled.

"Nope, I usually call them, even when they are in denial," she snorted. "I know for a fact he is interested in a pretty blonde filly named Buffy, and no, that is not her drag name."

"Cordy, honey, give it a rest," Lorne groaned. "Let me prove you wrong."

"All you are going to do is prove you can blush when you're embarrassed, and maybe bodily harmed if you make a move on Mr. Straight as an arrow." Cordy winked as she stood up. "Hey, it's your funeral and I will have it put on your headstone- 'Cordy tried to warn him, but he didn't listen, the man only likes women.'"

"I heard it from a reliable source he swings both ways," Lorne glared at the woman who was his employee, but loved her like she was family.

"Hmmm, I think you'd better check the resources past source giving, and if they'd have a reason to lie." Cordy again looked down at the man she loved like a brother and wanted nothing more than for him to be happy.

"Angel told me," Lorne sighed.

"Tall, dark, and brooding, Angel O'Connor?" Cordy asked. "Please, I don't even know them and can see how jealous Angel is of his co-star."

Lorne looked at his employee and close friend. "So, you think Angel is playing me?"

"Wouldn’t surprise me, if he doesn't have it planned to use you to embarrass Spike, somehow. Be very careful how you handle this." Cordy reached down and kissed his cheek. "I think you need to reassess the game plan and make sure there is no traitor in the mix."

Lorne nodded as he closed his eyes and wondered if his friend’s advice was true, as well as the information she shared with him. If he was honest to himself, Cordy was never wrong with her assessment of people. She had an uncanny way of being able to read a person quickly and accurately.

"If I find you have played me for a fool Mr. O'Connor, you will regret the day you were ever born," Lorne whispered as he started to doubt the information the other man had imparted to him, about the man that was sex on two legs.

Darla sat in the corner of the bar watching the entrance to see if Buffy accepted her invitation. It also gave her the advantage to see who else entered the lounge. She could not help but think she was working on a movie set instead of sitting in one of the ships bar, waiting to see if her life was about to blow up in her face.

She had decided to let fate decide- If Buffy shows up, she will tell the woman everything she knows and suspects about Angel's plans for her and Spike. If she doesn't show, then the lady is on her own, and she will just refuse to help her co-worker with his scheme to bring Spike down.

Giles had taken the stairs, which he had found to be quicker and more private when they had first boarded the ship. It was easy since it was only a few decks up, with the Explorer's lounge being on the Pomenade deck. He hurried so he could grab a few minutes hopefully with Darla before Buffy and Willow arrived.

Darla groaned when she noticed Giles enter the bar. The last thing she needed was a positive Spike supporter to overhear what she had to say. Her heart began to race when she noticed the determined look on Giles' face when he started walking quickly toward her.

"Darla, I have but a few minutes before we are joined by Buffy and Willow," Giles began. "So I will make this as quick and painless as I can."

She nodded, not wanting to say anything since she didn't know why he was here. "Okay, Rupert, make it quick please."

They worked well with each other, having a few scenes together, plus mingling during the show and network parties. "I need to know what you plan to discuss with Buffy, especially if it involves Spike and Angel."

She tried to keep her anxiety level down, but she knew he caught her surprise when the look of triumph came over his face.

"I think you need to tell me if this meeting is something planned by Angel to cause more trouble."

Darla shook her head, "No, I want to come clean and tell Buffy what happened today and how Angel is going to use her to hurt Spike."

Giles looked down at the woman and could see the fear in her eyes. "How did he get you to do this?"

Darla started to bite on her lower lip debating how much she should divulge when she noticed Buffy and her friend walk into the bar. "They're here, can't talk about it right now."

"I will help you any way I can," Giles said, smiling softly. "I will stay if you want me to, or you can call me tomorrow."

Darla felt the tears start to build up. "Stay."

Giles said nothing, just offered a reassuring smile as he turned to meet the two young women as they arrived at the table. "Ladies, if you don't mind, I'm going to join you for a moment."

Buffy looked from the blonde woman that was sitting down to Jenny's husband and debated if she wanted to join them or just walk away. Her head was telling her she needed to stay, where her heart was telling her to run.

"Fine with me, if Buffy is okay with it," Darla said as she met the other woman's gaze, hoping she wouldn't turn away, run and not hear her out.

Buffy surprised herself as she took the chair directly across from the other blonde woman and sat back with her arms across her chest. "I have a feeling this is about Angel and Spike and what really was behind what happened today."

Willow took the seat on Buffy's left and Giles took the seat on the right, both of them were surprised to hear Buffy confront Darla so quickly. Giles secretly was proud how the young woman had figured out the main reason for Darla asking to meet her.

Darla's eyes kept darting to the entrance of the bar, and the other three people at the table could not help but notice. The last thing she needed was for Angel to come in and catch her talking not just to Buffy and her friend, but Rupert as well. To Angel, that would be unforgivable.

"He is not going to come here tonight," Giles tried to reassure her. "His attention was with a certain brunette when I last saw him down below."

Darla relaxed. "The little ho-bag that had Wesley looking like the deer caught in the headlights the other night?"

Giles fought back a smile, as he looked over at Willow as he spoke. "Yes, she made him rather uncomfortable- not his type at all."

Willow smiled to herself as she relaxed hearing Giles confirm nothing had happened between Wes and the tramp they were talking about.

Buffy sat back and let the other woman collect herself, having noticed how anxious she had been, before hearing that Angel was otherwise engaged. The first thing she was going to do, when she saw him tomorrow, was give him a piece of her mind and set him straight on a few things.

Darla sighed softly, praying for the courage to say what she was about to say. "Buffy, the little scene in the elevator was fixed. He had me wait with him until you were ready to leave the pool. It was all rehearsed and most of it not true, that is except Harmony."

"What about Harmony?" Buffy asked, seeing Giles tense up and become agitated.

"Spike is dating Harmony," Darla shrugged.

Giles cleared his throat as he gave Darla a not-so-friendly look and then his gaze softened when he looked over at Buffy. "I can honestly say that Spike is no longer dating Harmony, he broke it off right before the cruise."

Buffy's eyes quickly turned to Giles and met his stare. "So, he isn't seeing anyone right now?"

"No, he realized she was not for him, was not his future," Giles smiled softly. "I can say this, and you can quote me if you'd like, his plans after the cruise included a trip to Sunnydale. Something about meeting a girl from there and wanting to get to know her better."

"He was coming to see me," Buffy whispered, turning to look at Willow. "He was going to come to Sunnydale and see me."

Willow was happy for Buffy and the news that Spike had not been a low life, cheating bum. The redhead turned her focus on the woman who'd helped cause her best friend the unnecessary pain. "So, why are you telling us this now?" Willow asked, bringing Buffy back to why they were gathered here.

Darla leaned her head back trying to think of a way to say enough for them to understand her plight, without having to tell them all of it. She could not look them in the eyes as she whispered. "I did something I'm ashamed of and he has it all on tape."

"The bastard seems to be in love with act of taping," Giles growled, causing the three girls to jump and stare at him with a look of weary. "Sorry, just I'm finding out more than I care to about Angel."

"Yes, our Angel does not live up to his name, that's for sure," Darla snorted, as she reached over and picked up her drink. "Buffy, make sure you never find yourself alone with him."

"Why? Would he really be stupid enough to try and force me to do something I don't want to do?" Buffy rolled her eyes. "I think I can handle the likes of him."

"Well, sometimes, where there is a will there is a way," Darla stared at her, hoping the young woman got her meaning. "Believe me, I know."

Giles wondered what Angel could have on Darla that could be so awful he would use it as blackmail. He knew the young woman had a hard time of it when her husband had asked for a separation last year. The last dinner at Robert's house, the couple had come together. They appeared to be back in a loving relationship.

"I promise to be careful," Buffy nodded, wondering what Angel could have on this woman to make her do what she had done today.

"Is there anything we can help you with?" Willow asked, knowing the woman must be hurting and Angel might seek revenge against her, telling everyone what he had on her.

"No, I’ll just have to be prepared to have the carpet pulled out from under me." Darla smiled sadly. "Please don't worry, after thinking it all over I'd rather live with it coming out than to live with doing what I had done last night and today."

"Thank you for coming to me and telling me the truth," Buffy reached over, took Darla's hand, and gently squeezed it. "If you ever need to talk, I think you know where to find me."

Darla returned the gesture and smiled back. "Thank you for not holding it against me."

"I'm sure you didn't have time to really think things out," Buffy let go of her hand and leaned back into her chair. "I'm sure this Angel freak, hit you with it and demanded you help on the spot."

Darla nodded. "I think I will be going now."

"Again, thanks for telling me all of this. I know this had to been very hard for you." Buffy felt bad that this woman had been made to do something she didn't want to do, because some dickhead had something he could hold over her head. "I mean it. I would be more then happy to help you in anyway I can."

Giles stood up as Darla did and walked over and pulled her into a tight hug and whispered, "We will talk, and he will pay. You have my word as a gentleman."

Darla hugged him back. "Thank you Rupert,” she whispered. “But I'm not sure you can help me out of this one."

"Oh, you might be surprised, my dear, you just might be surprised," he whispered with a chuckle, before stepping back and letting her leave.

Willow watched as the forlorn woman walked out of the bar with her shoulders drooped and her head down. Her eyes met Buffy's and saw her own feeling reflected in her best friend's gaze. They both felt sorry for the young woman and her troubles.

"Giles do you know where Spike is?" Buffy asked, feeling the need to make amends.

Giles looked down at his hands that found themselves folded in front of him on the table. He thought for a moment about how he was going to answer her question. He took a few seconds, then looked up at her and decided that he would tell her what he thought she should know, and then it would be up to Spike to tell her the rest.

"Buffy, Spike had a very bad night tonight and is in his room." Giles started to explain and raised his hand up to stop her from speaking. "Now would not be a good time to see him."

"He's okay, right?" she asked, feeling a sudden wave of anxiety come over her.

"Yes, he just needs some time," Giles replied, his hand coming over and grasping hers. "Buffy, do you believe in fate?"

Looking at the older man, Buffy realized it was a serious question, so she took a few moments to think about it before she replied. "I'm not sure, I haven't ever thought about it, why?"

"I believe in it with all my heart." Giles squeezed her hand as he continued, "One day, ask Jenny about fate and how it brought her to me. For if it was not for the fates that day I would be a very unhappy man today. She is my soulmate…my life."

Buffy smiled as the tears came to her eyes when she understood his meaning. "So you think the fates may have brought about me and Spike together?"

"I guess only time will tell," Giles winked right before he let her hand go. "Come ladies, if you are ready I would be more than honored to escort you to your cabin."

"Why, Mr. Giles, how knightly of you," Willow giggled as she and Buffy stood up and allowed Jenny's husband to walk them home.

"Please, be sure not to tell my wife. She will expect me to wear my armor, and it's such a bother to polish, let alone try and put on." Rupert winked as he bowed and swung his arm out to the side as the ladies walked out of the bar.

*******

Jenny opened her eyes and realized she had fallen asleep in Allyson's bed. She tried to squint and see what time it was, but the clock was turned toward Sara, so she couldn't see the time. She eased herself up and away from her sleeping daughter and quickly stood up off the bed, preparing to go and join her husband, who should be home by now.

She again looked and made sure her pride and joys were all snuggled and breathing before she turned to go to her room. The first thing she was going to do was make her husband tell her everything that went on in the boys’ room.

The first thing she noticed was the bedside lamp's light was on. The next thing she noticed was the still-made bed and her missing husband. All she could think, was something terrible had happened. She opened the door and moved quickly over to the boys’ door and knocked.

"Who is it?" Wesley whispered, wondering who'd be knocking on their door this late at night.

"Jenny, now open this door."

Wesley opened the door quickly and looked to see if her husband was around. "Jenny, what, my dear, are you doing here?"

"I'm looking for my husband for one, and answers for the second." Jenny placed her hands on her hips and put her 'I'm the boss' face on, which was hard to ignore or forget.

"Giles did not come back to the room?" Wesley asked.

"Not there, that's why I’m here," she glared at the younger man. "Are you going to ask me in or is something going on I shouldn't know about?"

Wesley ran his hand through his hair and contemplated on how best to handle this new problem. "Jenny, Spike is sleeping it off and I would rather not wake him at the moment."

"What happened?" Jenny asked, her voice full of concern and worry.

"It's a long and complicated tale to tell," Wesley tried to explain. "Something I'd rather tell you in the morning if you don't mind. Just know he is alright, for now that is, he will be feeling the effects come morning."

"So, where is my husband?" Jenny asked, feeling like something major was going on and she was out of the loop.

"I don't know, Jenny, he left here, going back to your cabin," Wesley said with a sigh, thinking he was going to have to have a long talk with Rupert, if he'd gone to confront Angel without him.

"Jenny?" Giles asked, having noticed his wife standing out side of Wes and Spike's cabin door. He was sure she would still be sleeping when he got back.

"Well, one missing husband found," Wesley glared at the man in question.

"Where were you? And what the hell is going on?" Jenny turned toward the husband with her hands firmly on her hips, and a determined look on her face that told him he would not get any sleep tonight until he told her everything.

"Yes, Rupert where were you?" Wesley leaned against the door with a look of 'you had better not have gone and done what I think you have' look on his face.

"Get some rest my friend, you will need it," Giles smiled. "What I have to say will keep until then. No bodily damage done."

Jenny looked on and became more confused and angry. "Well, maybe he can sleep, Mister, but you won't, until you tell me what is going on."

"You my dear will have my undivided attention once we get back to our room," Giles leaned down and kissed her lips gently. "I love you. I just had to say it."

Jenny knew by the look on his face, his love was not said to placate her. "I love you, too."

"Then goodnight and we will talk in the morning then," Wes reaffirmed before closing the door.

"Come my dear sweet wife, for I have a tale of woe and suspense that only the likes of Shakespeare himself could have weaved." Giles pulled her close as they walked together to their cabin.

"It involves Spike doesn't it?"

"Yes, it does," Giles nodded. "It involves lies, betrayal, treachery, and jealousy."

Jenny looked up at her husband as he unlocked the door. "I'm going to want to kick someone's ass, aren’t I?"

"Yes, I do believe you will want to do just that," Giles chuckled as he pictured Angel getting the shit beat out of him by the beautiful woman he called his wife. "I'm thinking I just might let you."

"Good," Jenny replied as she entered the cabin.

*******

Buffy walked out onto the balcony and looked up at the stars and moon. "Willow, do you believe in fate?"

Willow walked to the door and watched as Buffy started up at the night sky. "Yes, sometimes I do?"

"Do you thinks it's fate that I met William and we ended up on the same ship?" Buffy turned around and looked at her best friend.

"Has anyone made you feel like he makes you feel?" Willow asked.

"No. No one," Buffy smiled. "I mean he did knock me off my feet. Would that count as a fairytale beginning?"

Willow laughed as she nodded. "I think he just might be your prince."

Buffy started to laugh as well when she thought again how Giles had told her that William had planned to come and find her in Sunnydale. "Do you believe in love at first sight?"

Willow thought of how she felt when she first saw Wesley in person for the first time and their eyes met. "Yeah, I think I do."

Buffy looked over and noticed her friend's flushed face and knew whom the redhead was thinking about. "So, do you think the fates are working to bring you and pretty boy Wes together?"

Willow sputtered as she looked over at Buffy. "He’s not a pretty boy."

"I think he is." Buffy bit her lip to keep from laughing at the indignation on her friend's face.

"He is not pretty, he is handsome," Willow stated firmly as she glared at her friend, missing the mischief in her eyes.

"Yep, pretty handsome," Buffy snickered. "I think you have it bad Wills. I think you really like Wesley a lot, and you should go for it."

"But I’m just me," Willow said as she turned and walked back into the cabin, with Buffy following right behind her.

"Well I like ‘just you’ just fine," Buffy replied. "And I think he likes you, too."

Willow's eyes grew large as she turned around and asked, "You think he likes me?"

"Sure do," Buffy nodded. "I think you should get to know him better."

"Maybe the fates are with both of us this trip." Buffy giggled. "It would be funny if we both ended up dating these guys after the cruise.

"Only time will tell," Willow smiled as she nudged her friend. "Well, I don't know about you, but I'm tired."

Buffy was going to deny her tiredness, but she couldn't hold back the yawn. "Yeah, a day at sea. I wonder how long we can stay at the pool."

"I say we have breakfast, plan our day for the next port of call, and see what tours we want to take." Willow smiled and then looked pointedly at Buffy. "That is, after you go and talk to Spike."

"You got that right. Me making things right," Buffy's smile grew. "I have never felt like this about someone Wills, and it scares me as much as it excites me."

"Take it one day and one step at a time," Willow said before giving her friend a stern look. "Do not back away from this Buffy. You have to stop being your own worst enemy."

"I promise to give this a chance. Don't ask me why, but I'm going to see how it goes after I talk to Spike." Buffy gave her friend a determined look.

"Just remember I’ll be here for you," Willow winked.

"Okay here's the deal," Buffy said, giving her best friend a big smile and putting her hand out. "You will be there for me about Spike, and I will there for you about Wesley."

Willow laughed as she took Buffy's hand and agreed. "Deal!"

"Great, now to bed and we will see what tomorrow brings," Buffy said, returning the handshake.

The two women then broke all contact as they stood and prepared themselves for bed. Each of them thinking of their man and wondering when they'd get to see them, since they didn't now what either man had scheduled with the con during the day.

*******

This will be my last update until Monday. I'm going to Houston, to see Amber, Andy, Kelly, Jonathan, and that other fella. I promise to post first thing when I get home on monday evening.

Wesley reached over and turned the alarm off, taking a moment to look over at his cabin mate and noticing the noise had not phased the man one bit. He took a few seconds, going over the events of last night. He had taken the tape and hid it in the closet in his luggage, not wanting Spike to destroy the evidence that might prove to be helpful in the future.

The ringing of the phone brought him out of his thoughts as he reached over and picked it up. "Hello?"

"Wes, I hope I didn't wake you," Jenny responded. "Is Spike up yet?"

"No, you did not wake me, and no, the undead has not joined the awakened as yet." Wesley sighed since the ringing of the phone had not caused the man in the other bed to stir. "I have my job cut out for me on this."

"You left some clothes on him, right?" Jenny asked as the plan formed in her mind. "I’ll be there in a few minutes," she said as she hung up the phone, not giving the man on the other end time to respond.

Wesley listened to the dial tone for a few seconds before he realized he didn't have too much time before Mother Giles was going to be here. He jumped from the bed and grabbed his robe, slipping it on, as he again glanced over at his best friend. "Spike, may God have mercy on your soul," Wesley chuckled.

*******

"Jenny, do you think that is a good idea?" Giles chuckled as he watched his wife collect her room key and put it in her back pocket.

Jenny looked over and gave him her 'don't mess with me today' look as she turned back to the door. "You worked your magic with Buffy, now I'm going to work my magic with Spike."

Giles watched as she pulled out her little bag of motherly goodness, removing a bottle of something and putting it in her pocket, before taking out a cold bottle of water out of the little refrigerator. "If you need me just call."

"I will, honey, but I think I can handle Spike all by myself." Jenny winked as she opened the door and left.

"God help the boy, but he is about to find out what tough love it all about," Giles chuckled as he moved to the closet to pick out what he was going to wear to the photo shoot this morning. "Oh, and won't Spike look the part of a vampire? All pale and pissed."

*******

Darla turned over in her bed and stretched as she listened to the alarm. She looked over at the balcony door and noticed the beautiful blue sky and white clouds. The pull of the ocean air made her roll out of bed to walk over and open the door.

When she had gotten back to her room she had placed a call to her husband, he was waiting in Montego Bay to join the cruise. He told her he still loved her, even after she told him everything- including her part in deceiving Buffy and sleeping with Angel. She had cried and he had soothed her as best he could over the phone, promising to take care of her when he saw her.

She had made him promise not to hurt Angel while on the cruise, that it was not worth her losing her job or the publicity it would bring them. He had agreed, saying there were other ways to take care of a lowlife, such as Angel, that would be discreet and more meaningful.

"One good thing came out of this," Darla mused as she stood at the balcony as the breeze played with her hair. "I know now my husband does love me and will be there for me."

It had nearly destroyed her last year, when her husband had left her, saying she only loved him for his money. He didn’t believe her when she had denied his accusations and pleaded with him not to leave her, that he was her world. Yes, he was much older, but he was the first man that treated her with respect, and that’s what won her heart.

It took her knocking on his door three months after he had left her, looking disheveled and pale, for him to see how his leaving had hurt her. He held her as she cried her heart out to him, how lost she was without him, and that she loved him, not his money. He had not wanted to talk about the time they had spent apart, and she suspected it was because he had been involved with someone else as well. It never came up until last night, and she had been right; there had been someone else at the time.

Darla knew now without a doubt she was ready to face anything Angel threw at her. She had the love and support of the most important person in the world behind her now, and that was all she needed. "I'm not afraid anymore!" she shouted to the wind, before turning to get ready to face Angel and the photo shoot that would more than likely put him at her side for a few hours.

*******

Angel stretched and smiled when he felt a hand reach down between his legs. "Damn, woman. Can I say you know just what to do to make a man happy in the morning?"

"Oh, I know how to make a man happy 24/7," Faith smiled as her mouth replaced her hand.

"Baby, you have a mouth that makes a man weep and cry for mercy," Angel groaned as she took him deep.

All thoughts of the day left as she blew his head and his mind, not knowing all his well laid plans were about to turn to dust.

*******

Jenny didn’t hesitate to knock on the door. The first thing she was going to do was make sure Wesley was okay, and then she was going to deal with Spike. 'And so help me God, I had better not see Angel today or I will kick him in the balls.'

Wesley moved to open the door biting back a smile when he heard Spike offer a small moan at last. "Hello, Jenny," he greeted her as he opened the door and stepped back to let her in.

She noticed he was dressed in the clothes from last night. "Go get ready. I'll take care of Spike."

Wesley was not about to challenge her, hearing the commanding tone in her voice. The one she used when dealing with the girls, when she wants them to do something she knows they don't want to do.

"I won't be long," Wesley said with a nod as he grabbed the clothes he planned to wear at the photo shoot. "I think he’ll look the part of his character today. Especially if he wears black."

"I'm sure you are right," Jenny agreed as she looked at how pale the young man in question was. "Go on, I'll be okay."

Wesley offered her a supportive smile before he went into the bathroom so he could shower and get ready.

Jenny walked over and ran her hand through Spike's hair and then leaned down and kissed his forehead. "Okay, sleepyhead, wakey, wakey," she said as she gently shook him.

Spike grumbled and pushed his face deeper into the pillow, only to quickly turn his head again to the side after smelling his breath. The movement caused his head to hurt more, and it didn't help hearing the little voice that kept saying, "Wake up, Spike."

Jenny had to bit her lip to keep from laughing when she noticed his reaction to his own breath. "Come on, Spike. You need to wake up and face the day."

"Don't want to face the day, like it here just fine," he whispered, since the sound of his own voice hurt, even more than hearing the other one in his dream.

"Sorry to disappoint, but rise and shine. Time to greet the day, baby boy," Jenny leaned down and spoke in a normal voice in his ear. "You have exactly two hours to get ready to face the camera and happy excited fans as you get your picture taken."

"Fuck, just throw me off the bloody boat and forget I ever existed," Spike growled.

"Don’t use that word, Mr. I-Drank-Too-Much."

Jenny tried her best to use her 'I’m the mother and you will listen' voice, and not laugh.

"My husband doesn't say it, well at least not in front of me, unless he is truly vexed like he was last night. And by the way it's a ship, not a boat and I’m not throwing you off of it. The sharks would just toss you back."

"Why?"

"Why? What?" Jenny again tried not to laugh. "Why would the sharks would throw you back? Well that’s easy, you stink."

"Woman, don't you have a husband to torture?" Spike clinched his eyes shut, tying not to talk too loud and make his head hurt worse.

"No good reason to torture him, but you, now that's a different story," Jenny softly whispered in his ear. "I will not let you give up and let that bastard win, do you hear me?"

Spike's body tensed as the meaning of her words hit him. "You know?"

"Yes, I know," Jenny said with a sigh as she ran her hand through his hair. "Wesley and Giles saw the tape and Rupert told me. We are not going to lose you because of this. You are a part of my family, and I will not give up on you."

Spike felt the tears build behind his eyes. "Why do you care? I'm nothing. Just some bloke no one wanted when I was born."

Jenny felt like crying, she knew his cocky outside persona was a shield he wore to protect the insecure man that was William. "Oh, you are something special, why do you think Wesley cares about you, as me and my family do? You may not share our blood, but you are still a part of our family, and family protects its own."

Spike turned over in the bed, and looked up at Jenny. "What’s wrong with me?" he asked.

"Nothing is wrong with you. It's not you." Jenny sat down on the bed and handed him the bottle of water and the Tylenol she brought with her. "Here, take these and drink all of the water, slowly."

"I think I know how to treat a hangover. Been there before." Spike sat up, looked down at his bare chest, and pointed over at his shirt he saw lying on the back of the chair. "Mind handing me my shirt?"

Jenny noticed how Spike blushed when he realized he was topless. "Sure. To answer your question; it's not you, but the women who take advantage of you and your good heart."

"I'm thinking I must be a bitch magnet," Spike could not find it in him to look up, and meet her eyes as he accepted his shirt and put it on.

"I don't think Buffy is a bitch," Jenny said, winking at him. "In fact I find her refreshing."

Spike groaned when his head reminded him it didn't like moving quickly at the moment. "She hates me," he mumbled as he pushed back the blankets and moved to sit on the side of the bed.

"Nope, no hate." Jenny sat back down on the bed, beside him, and placed her finger under his chin forcing him to look at her. "I think she’s had time to think things over and is ready to hear you out, about why you didn't tell her who you were."

Spike looked at her with a look of surprise on his face. "How do you know?"

"Oh, let's just say while someone was losing himself in the bad devil's brew, others took up his cause and pleaded his case," Jenny shrugged as she dropped her hand. "Spike, it turns out she is a pretty smart girl, and after thinking things out, she even realized that Angel had played on her feelings. I know she’s going to try and talk to you today."

Spike felt his anger start to boil. "Angel seems to be out to make my life hell for some reason."

Jenny looked at the blonde as if he was crazy. "Well, yeah, dingleberry child. He's jealous, he knows you are a far more talented actor than he could ever dream of being, and that everyone loves you. He knows the Powers That Be are looking to expand your role and are considering making you more the lead in the series."

Spike looked gob-smacked after hearing what Jenny was telling him. "He's more popular than me, by far, and his name carries the show."

"What planet are you living on? Cause you sure don't live here on earth," Jenny said, rolling her eyes. "You should read the reviews and get into the cyber world honey, cause right now you beat him with websites, fanfiction, and fan polls on who their favorite character is on the show."

Spike looked over at the one woman that he admired and loved like a sister. "You know I don't get involved in who is more popular than who."

"I know, but since I'm the one that runs your website, I know first hand how many hits a day it gets. I am also the one who prints out all your e-mail and mails it to you," Jenny reminded him. "I can't believe you read every piece, respond to them, and don't know how popular you are."

"But a lot of them ask how I like working with the others so I just think the others are getting the same stuff." Spike closed his eyes, his head feeling like it was going to explode. "I hope Wes hurries up. I think I might need to pray to the porcelain God here shortly."

"Here, lay back down and take some deep breaths," Jenny instructed, getting herself in mother of sick child mode as she stood up and motioned with her hands for him to lie back.

Spike closed his eyes and as he did, he was told to lie back down on the bed. "I don't think I can make it to the photo session. God, I'm an idiot, a stupid git."

Jenny looked down at the blonde boy wonder and noticed the fine sweat on his face, tightly closed eyes and knew his head was spinning. "Here, relax and let me use my magic fingers."

Spike took a few deep breaths as he tried to control the dizziness he was feeling. He tried to focus on how good Jenny's fingers felt, as they did work their magic as she massaged his temples. She started gently at first and slowly increased the pressure until it was just right and he started to relax.

Wesley stepped out of the bathroom, feeling relieved he had not heard any raised voices while he was taking his shower. He smiled when he noticed Jenny sitting on the bed with Spike's head in her lap, as she worked her fingers long the side of his head. He noticed the half empty bottle of water leaning against Spike's side, and thanked the heavens for one Jenny Giles.

Jenny pursed her lips and softly shushed Wesley when he walked out of the bathroom. He smiled softly and mouthed, ‘Thank you.’ Walking over to the closet, he went through Spike's clothes, picking out what he thought the man would wear for the photo shoot. He picked out a nice pair of black designer jeans and then pulled out the black silk shirt with a fine, white border around the collar.

He turned around and held them up for Jenny to inspect. She looked at the clothes and thought a bit before nodding her head ‘yes’. He then laid them on the bed and refused to pick out any other articles of clothing for his friend. 'There is a limit to what I will do for you, Spike.'

Jenny watched as Wesley laid the outfit out, and could tell by the look on his face, his picking out Spike's wardrobe had reached its limit. She looked down and smiled at he relaxed expression on Spike's face. The drugs were, hopefully, starting to kick in, and she would make sure she gave him a couple more to take during the photo shoot.

Wesley walked over to the side of the bed, and looked down at the sleeping man and then back at Jenny. "So how did it go?"

"He knows we know," Jenny said, frowning. "He really has a low self-esteem."

"Yes, he does, it doesn't help that the women he is attracted to, are not worthy of him," Wesley agreed. "I wish he would find someone that loves him back."

"You never know what the fates have in store for you," Jenny closed her eyes as she remembered what Rupert had told Buffy about how fate had brought them together. "I can’t help but feel that his life will only get better after today."

Wesley looked at her strangely. "Sometimes you scare me with your talk of fate."

Jenny opened her eyes and looked up at Wesley and winked. "I think a certain redhead will make you believe. Heed my word- the fates do not decide your life, they just give you the opportunities. It’s up to you to take advantage and use them to make your life more fulfilling. Don’t let those opportunities pass you by." Jenny winked as she turned her attention on the sleeping man whose head was on her lap. "Spike, it's time to get up and get all pretty for the public."

Spike yawned as he opened his eyes, feeling better since the jackhammer and hurricane had moved on to someone else's brain. "Must I?"

"Yes, it's time to smell better." Jenny waved her hand across her face as she scrunched up her face. "Don't forget to wash behind you ears and please brush your teeth and use the mouthwash."

"Yes, Mum," Spike grumbled as he slowly sat up, praying the movement would not bring back the badness he had woken up with.

Wesley held out his hand, wondering if Spike would understand what he was offering. The look on his friend's face spoke volumes as the blonde male reached up and took his hand, allowing Wesley to help him to his feet.

"Don't do it again," Wes said as he pulled Spike into a hug. "I agree with Jenny. You smell like a brewery."

Spike returned the hug. "I'm sorry."

"Don't be," Wesley replied as he pulled back and looked Spike in the face. "You hurt my feelings. So don't be sorry, just don't do it again. Talk to me next time, like we agreed the last time."

Spike took a deep breath, and then looked his friend in the eyes giving him a firm nod. "Well, I had better get cleaned up, and I promise I’ll talk to you next time."

Wesley's smile grew as he thought of something. "Remember what I told you that you'd have to do if something like this happened?"

Spike's eyes grew large. "Oh, Lord, Wes, you can't make me do that! Promise you won't. I was pissed at the time, so you should not hold me responsible for such an idiotic bet."

"Hmm, I will have to think about this," Wesley couldn't help but make Spike believe he might just make him do it. "I’ll give you time to make a counter offer, and it had better be good."

Spike let out the breath he didn't know he was holding. He thanked the Gods that Jenny had not asked what it was that he had promised, and hoped Wesley didn’t tell her later on.

Wesley watched as Spike moved around the room and collected his clothes, nodding his thanks for pulling out the outfit. "Thanks, mate."

"You're welcome."

Jenny kept quiet until Spike closed the bathroom door. "Okay Wes, out with it."

"Now Jenny, there are some things that need to be kept a secret." Wesley bit his lip when he noticed the disappointed look on her face. There was no way he was going to tell her that Spike had vowed he would dress up like Bette Midler and sing 'The Rose' if he ever got lost in the bottle again.

"Fine, be that way," Jenny said, laughing as she reached up and kissed his cheek. "You call me if you need anything, and I’ll give Ru some more Tylenol. I'm sure you can get him water and makes sure he drinks."

"Yes, Mum," Wesley smiled as he walked her to the door and gently kissed her cheek. "Thank you for being such a wonderful friend."

"Well, the two of you make it easy. You put up with my brats and my overbearing husband." Jenny dramatically sighed as she waved good -bye.

*******

Buffy rolled over in the bed, looked at the time and groaned. 'Not supposed to wake up so early on vacation with nowhere to be at eight in the morning,' she thought to herself before turning over and looking at a very peaceful, sleeping Willow in the next bed. 'She could always sleep like the dead.'

Buffy was getting ready to venture to the bathroom, then go back to bed and see if she'd be able to get back to sleep, when the phone rang, causing her to jump and hurry to answer it.

"Hello?" she whispered, as she looked to see if the noise had disturbed Willow at all, sighing when she noticed that her friend was still asleep.

"Buffy?"

"Yes…Jenny?" Buffy felt a sudden knot of anxiety in her stomach.

"Yes," Jenny replied, hoping she had not woken her up. "I hope I didn't wake you, but I really do need to talk to you."

"No, I had just rolled out of bed," Buffy said, her voice laced with worry. "Jenny, is something wrong?”

"No, nothing is wrong. I was hoping to be able to talk to you alone if you don't mind?" Jenny asked, hoping she was not overstepping her bounds.

"Sure, is it about William?" Buffy closed her eyes, and knew the man didn't want to talk to her and Jenny just wanted to soften the blow.

"Yes, it's about William," Jenny smiled softly hearing the confusion and fear in the other woman's voice, hoping to calm her nerves. She softly said over the phone, "I just want to share something before you meet with him is all."

"So he doesn't not want-- I mean he wants to see me?" Buffy whispered again, feeling her confidence start to come back.

"Buffy, I really believe once the two of you really talk everything will work out for the best." Jenny tried to give her best 'trust me' vibe to her voice that she could. "How about we meet for breakfast, say, in about fifteen minutes?"

Buffy felt some of tightness in her chest lift. "Okay, let me get dressed and leave a note for Willow.

"Meet me down in our dining room," Jenny said right before she kissed her husband goodbye as he walked out the door. She knew he was going to stop and see if Wesley needed any assistance with Spike.

"Okay," Buffy replied as she looked around for a pen and paper. "See you in fifteen."

Buffy found what she was looking for when she heard Willow clearing her throat behind her. "Who you having breakfast with?"

Looking over at her friend, who was wide awake and sitting on the side of the bed, Buffy replied, "Jenny wants to talk to me privately about William."

"Good, I think that's great," Willow smiled, understanding how Jenny would not feel comfortable with a third wheel in a Buffy and William conversation. "I’ll grab something at the buffet and meet you at the Terrace Pool."

Buffy walked over, and sat down next to Willow on the bed, giving her friend a hug. "Thanks for understanding and not being mad."

"If it helps you possibly find your Prince Charming, I'm all for it," Willow giggled as she returned the hug.

"Do you think he could be the one?" Buffy whispered as she hugged her friend closer. "I'm so scared, Willow."

"That's part of the relationship jitters. If you weren't afraid then I'd have to say he was not the one for you." Willow returned the hug, praying she was right and was not leading her friend into a world of heartache.

"Thank you," Buffy said as she let Willow go, stood back up and smiled. "Well, have to dress and make a dash for the dining room."

"I have a date with some fresh pineapple and mango before my morning swim." Willow put on her beauty queen look. "So, off with you so I can make myself presentable."

Buffy laughed as she grabbed her bathing suit and cover up then ran to the bathroom to quickly change so she could meet Jenny and see what the woman had to say about William. No matter how many times the others called him Spike, to her- he was always William, and it never really dawned on her why that was.

*******

Angel sat watching for Spike to enter the theatre. They were supposed to be early so the photographer could go over where he wanted everyone to stand and check the lighting. He was curious to know if the man had watched the special showing he had prepared for him

"What's with the cat ate the canary smile?" Anya asked, oblivious to what had been going on.

"Don't have any idea what you’re talking about," Angel replied, giving her an innocent smile as he lied through his teeth.

"Yeah, whatever," Anya snorted, knowing the man was up to something. She didn't trust the ground he walked on. "Tell it to the choir, maybe they might have enough faith to believe you."

"Really, Anya, where do you get off talking to me like that?" Angel glared at the makeup artist who was about to look him over and see if he needed anything done before the photo shoot.

Anya looked him dead in the face. "Angel you can fool some of the people all of the time, but you don't fool me one bit. I've been in this business longer than you and I know your kind."

"Yeah, and just what is my kind?" Angel snarled.

"Selfish, egotistical, and will stab anyone in the back to keep on top," Anya told him as she started to apply a loose powder. "That should take care of any shine, and don't thank me, cause I know you don't mean it."

Angel couldn't come up with a good enough come back fast enough as he watched the mouthy little bitch walk away from him. All he could think was how she was going to pay for her insolence and disloyalty.

‘Can't see what Harris sees in the tramp,’ he thought to himself as he watched her join her husband, who was talking with a couple of the writers of the show. "Things will change once I get control of things."

Xander noticed the pissed off look on his wife's face. "Hey honey, dead boy say something to upset you?"

Anya scrunched up her face as she looked at her husband, and in front of Andrew and Jonathan told them just what she felt. "He needs to come down from his rose colored ivory tower and take a big look around."

The three men laughed at her comment and nodded their head in agreement, with Andrew looking at his co-writer with a knowing look. Both men knew that the shit was going to hit the fan when the new scripts came out. Mr. O' Connor was not going to be happy to find out that his co-vamp star was going to have a much better lead this season.

"So where is the rest of the gang? I mean, jeez, Giles is usually here by now. And what is with Angel being the first to arrive, like for the first time ever?" Andrew looked at the others, wondering if they had noticed that the man who was always the last to arrive, had been the first.

"I was asking myself the same question," Xander replied, since normally Angel was never on time and he had even beaten him to the photo session.

"He keeps looking at the door like the predator waiting for his prey." Anya looked back at the man who made her skin crawl, her gut telling her to make sure to pay attention to the cocky bastard's reaction to those who entered the theatre.

The three men looked at each other and then back at Anya, all of them noticing how she was lost in her thoughts. Her husband was sure she had figured something out, but was going to keep it to herself until she proved it was worth mentioning. The thought that his girl did know when not to speak her thoughts sometimes, amazed him.

*******

Spike stood between his two co-workers and best friends as they rode the elevator down. The movement messed with his sense of balance slightly, still feeling the after effects of his stupidity last evening.

Giles noticed how quiet his young blonde friend had been since he'd stopped to pick both him and Wesley up. Jenny had given him another bottle of water and a few more of the Tylenol to give Spike in a couple of hours.

Wesley noticed the grimace on Spike's face when the elevator stopped and watched as his friend took a few deep breathes. "Are you okay?"

Spike gave his best friend a sheepish look. "I'm fine, mate."

"You look like hell," Giles snorted.

"Thanks, just what I needed to hear." Spike leaned his head against the elevator wall trying to fight the dizziness.

"Come on, you can do this." Wesley nudged his friend, offering a lopsided smile.

Spike groaned when the door opened and he knew the next few steps would make him or break him. "I don't think I can do this."

"Yes, you can." Giles looked at him with a determined look on his face. "You will do this. I refuse to allow you to let Angel think he has won."

Spike looked down as he walked out of the elevator. His truest fear was facing the man who was behind all of this madness being directed his way. He felt insecure and afraid he would not be able to stand up and make his friends proud, he didn't feel as strong as they believed him to be.

"Spike," Giles said as he took the young man's arm to make him stop. "I believe in you, and I will stand by you no matter what."

Spike looked over at the older man and smiled. "Thanks."

Giles noticed what Jenny had been telling him concerning the child within the man who was seeking acceptance and guidance. "You are welcome."

"I say we go in as a united front," Wesley stated as they closed in on the backstage theatre door. "I think he needs to be made aware that you are not alone in this."

Spike looked up and smiled at his friends. "I’ll face my enemy head on, and with your support, be able to take him and win the war."

"Hear, hear," Giles winked. "I would say let's drink on it, but I think you did enough for the three of us last night."

"Yeah, you're right about that," Spike agreed, praying to whoever was listening that he would not be subjected to standing anywhere near Captain Forehead. "Just hope the Poof is in close vicinity if I decide to disgrace myself."

"That would be a wonderful site to see." Wesley outright laughed at the visual Spike's words brought to mind.

"Yes, it would," Giles agreed. "Head up and know we have your back," he told the younger man right before he opened the door.

The first thing Spike noticed when he walked in was that Angel was sitting at an angle so he could watch the door. Somehow he found it in him to look the man square in the eyes and nod his awareness of the other man's scrutiny.

Anya watched how Angel's eyes became more alert when Spike had walked into the theatre. She noticed how seriously he was watching the blonde male, how confused he looked for a moment before a brief angry look appeared, then, his expression became unreadable.

She knew then that something was up between the two actors. Her thoughts led her to thinking it was not good, whatever it was that had happened. One look at Spike's face told her badness had happened; she knew a hung-over male when she saw one.

She walked over to Cordelia Chase who was working as the photographer, deciding to have a nice little chat with the woman. Anya took it upon herself to make sure to keep Spike away from O'Connor during the photo shoot.

"Hey, Cordy, can I ask a favor?"

Cordelia looked at the makeup artist and shrugged. "What is it?”

"When you place everyone for the pictures, please keep Spike away from Angel." Anya sighed before continuing, "Don't ask me why- just call it female intuition."

Cordy looked at Anya and winked. "Lover's spat?"

Anya looked at the woman as if she was crazy. "Get real honey. Spike is all hetero, no funny business with that one."

"Really, that's not what I have been hearing." Cordy couldn't be happier to have this time to find out the real deal about her boss’ recent obsession.

"Well, take it from me, and I know what there is to know about men." Anya looked meaningfully at the other woman. "Spike is a ladies man, and I'm not talking about dressing like one. He is a woman's man. He is not gay and not bi, and even if he was, he has better taste than Mr. Stick Up My Ass O'Connor."

Cordelia laughed at the other woman's rant. "Hey, don't hold back now, why don't you get to the point and tell me what you really think."

Anya smiled at the other woman, liking her immediately. "So, who told you Spike played for the other team?"

"Let's just say an interested party was told that Mr. Crawford liked it both ways." Cordy nodded toward Angel, hoping the woman caught what she was silently telling her.

Anya noticed the nudge of the other woman's head toward Angel and knew where this so-called interested party had heard such garbage. She even had an idea who the interested party was, thinking now how Cordelia's boss had been checking out Spike's ass the night of the cocktail party.

"So, do you think you can do that for me?" Anya asked as she gave Angel a look that if it could, would have killed him instantly, letting Cordy know the message was received.

"Not a problem, whatsoever. I think I know just where I want the blonde little number," Cordy winked, having noticed the blonde male had a look of being under the weather. "I think he’ll get the special seat."

"Thanks, you are a gem. And please, let the interested party know that he was misinformed on Spike's sexual habits," Anya said as she turned to join her husband. The first chance she got she'd have to tell him what she had found out, and then they would go together and tell Spike.

Angel saw how pale Spike was when he walked in the room, telling him his plan was working so far. But, then the man had looked him directly in the eyes with no evidence that he had watched the tape or not. He had expected a visit to his room, with yelling, screaming, and fists. Never did he expect Spike to calmly walk in as if nothing had ever happened, unless the tape had gone unwatched.

He tried to hide the frustration of not knowing what had indeed happened last night. He could tell the man was paler then usual, but the hangover could be just the reaction to Buffy's rejection yesterday. His mind started working a mile a minute, as he tried to figure out a way to find out if the tape had been watched or not, and, if not, how to arrange it that the man did in fact watch it soon.

Giles and Wesley made sure Spike knew how proud they were of him. "I must say, you have done an excellent job making him wonder what happened," Giles could not help but say as he walked past the younger man.

"Yes, I have to agree he is looking rather puzzled at the moment," Wesley commented, noticing the questioning look the other man would throw their way at times.

Giles now wished he had told them about Darla, but then told himself, ‘Now would not be a good time to get into all of that, later when we don’t have a public to greet."

"Makes it easier knowing I'm not alone," Spike's voice sounded strong and confident, allowing the other two to relax for the moment.

“Never alone, again,” Giles reiterated. “Now, have a seat and slowly sip on the water until we are called upon to step up to the stage.”

"I wonder where Darla is?" Spike looked around, worried about their female co-star.

"I’m sure she will be here directly," Giles reassured them. He knew Jenny was making a special house call and offering her their support with the Angel mess.

*******

Darla walked out of her cabin with a new sense of power, knowing her husband was totally supporting her. The first thing she saw when she turned around after making sure the door was indeed closed and locked, was Jenny Giles leaning against the wall a few doors down.

"Jenny, what brings you around?" Darla cautiously asked.

"Just wanted you to know that my husband and I will support you in away way we can." Mrs. Giles smiled as she held out her hand. “I want to say what a brave woman you are for going to Buffy like that and telling her the truth."

"I never should have done it in the first place. I was just scared, and didn't really have time to think of something else to do." Darla met her gaze with a confidence she didn't have when talking with Jenny's husband last night. "I called Colin and told him everything last night. He is supportive and promises we will get through this together."

Jenny walked over, and gave the woman a hug. "You don't know how good it is to hear that. I was so worried he wouldn't be supportive."

"No, we talked for a bit and he promised me that he loved me." Darla smiled, fighting the tears, "I need to go before I mess up my makeup."

"Promise me you’ll let us know if there is anything we can do to help you until Colin joins the cruise." Jenny was not about to let her leave and not know she could come to them anytime. "I mean it. If Angel gives you any trouble, call us."

"I promise to call you." Darla smiled, feeling even better now that she knew the others didn’t hold what she had done in desperation against her.

Jenny watched her go and decided it was time to get back to her room and the girls and find out their plans for the day. Buffy should be arriving soon as well.

*******

Darla walked into the theatre with a newfound confidence that no one was going to take away from her again. She looked over at Giles and smiled as she mouthed thank you to him.

Giles bowed his head slightly, giving her a smile that expressed his welcome.

Cordelia smiled when she noticed the last of the cast had arrived and she could now get started on getting them ready. "Okay people, come on up to the stage and let me see what I want to do with the lot of you."

Everyone laughed, except Angel who looked at the woman wondering if she was alone or traveling with someone. He had noticed she talked frequently with Lorne and the other guy with the dishwater blonde hair, with the funny girlie name. For the life of him he could not remember the man's name, and decided he wasn't important enough to remember anyway.

Cordelia looked at her set and knew she wanted Spike and Darla to be the two sitting in the chairs that would have the fan in between them.

"Okay, the two blondes, come on down," she yelled out and waited for them to join her. "Okay, handsome, you get the chair on the right and you, my dear, the one on the left."

Spike and Darla smiled at each other as they moved to set down as directed. "Hey pet, hubby joining us tomorrow?"

"Yes, he is," Darla smiled.

"Great, would be nice if you'd bring him around and not hog him to yourself," Spike winked, feeling better after drinking more of the water.

Darla felt a ping of guilt at what she had done- knowing Spike had always treated her and her husband with respect. He had even checked on her a few times during her black period after Colin had left her.

"I’ll make sure of it." Darla hoped he felt the same way once he found out her involvement in deceiving Buffy.

Cordy looked over at the rest of the cast and nodded her head as she came to her decision. "Okay, Wes and Giles come with me."

The two men followed without question as she led them to stand behind Spike, with Giles being the shorter of the two, standing on the outside portion.

"Robert, come stand in the middle would you please?" she asked the writer of the show, who was the tallest of the bunch to come stand beside Wes.

"Angel if you could stand next to Robert that would be great." Cordy waited, and knew, without a doubt, the one and only complaint was about to be voiced.

"Why do I have to stand?" Angel asked. "I think I should sit down in the front."

"Well, I think you need to stand next to Robert. I'm the artist and I know how I want my art to be represented." Cordy looked over at the man with her arms crossed. "This is what I'm being paid for, and I think you standing will make the picture more proportionate."

"Angel, I think she knows what she is doing." Robert decided he would nip this in the bud and work at keeping them on schedule.

"Fine." Angel looked directly at Spike and glared as he walked over and stood next to his boss.

"Work on that smile a bit would you." Cordy rolled her eyes as she then looked over at Xander and offered a sympathetic smile. "Would you be a love and please stand over by Mr. O'Connor?”

"Sure, I can manage that," Xander smiled, happy someone had finally managed to get one over on Angel.

"Great, now just give me a few minutes to go over the lighting and setting to make sure we’re all set and then we can get started." Cordy smiled as she walked over to her camera set up and stepped on the switch that turned on the lights. "We’re going to do the single fan shots first and then add the second chair for the doubles."

"What if we have a threesome?" Xander asked.

"Well, no one ordered it, except a few family shots then a child can sit on one of their parent's lap or can fit them between," Cordy said with a shrug. "Have to play it by ear as we go."

They watched at the young woman worked at checking the lighting around them with her meter and then walk back, and make adjustments on her camera. She did this a couple times before turning off the lights. "Okay, going to start having them line up, go grab something to drink as we let the crowd in."

"I'm going for a water, do you want one?" Wesley leaned down and asked Spike.

"Yeah, could use a bit more," Spike sighed, feeling his headache returning.

"Here, take these before we get started." Giles nudged him and held out two pain pills. "It's close enough that you can take them."

"Ta, mate." Spike silently thanked Jenny as well, with the bottom of his heart. "If you ever leave that woman of yours I will kick your arse."

"I don't think you have to worry about that, you see I’m more afraid of her kicking my arse than I am of you," Giles chuckled.

Spike silently groaned when he noticed the number of people lining up in the seats, and berated himself again for being such a git. He sent a silent prayer asking to give him strength to get through this and make sure the people left feeling he'd done his best to make this event a wonderful experience for them.

"Okay, we’re ready for action," Cordy called out. "Lights, camera, and let the activities begin.

The first fan walked up and let Lindsey take her ticket and escort her over to the chair.

"This is Cheryl."

"Hi, Cheryl," everyone said as the girl sat down.

Spike could see how nervous she was, and reached over and took her hand in his. "Just smile at the camera, we won't bite. Promise."

She smiled at the ‘won't bite’ part and Cordy took the shot, liking the blonde male of the group more and more. "Great shot, Cheryl you are going to love it."

"Thanks," she said, looking at Cordy as she stood, and then turned around and smiled shyly at Spike. "Thanks to you, it will be."

Spike smiled back as he felt his headache start to fade. Her smile reminded him of Buffy, and just the thought of possibility seeing her later made his day look better and better.

*******

Buffy woke from her nap, to the sounds of the ocean and the clean smell of sea air. Willow loved to leave the balcony door open at night, saying the sounds of the waves lulled her to sleep. Buffy smiled, the theory worked for late morning siestas as well, stretching out her body as she remembered the dream she had just had.

"Don't run so fast," Buffy yelled as she chased the blonde male down the beach.

"Sorry, Luv. If you want me, you have to catch me," said the man with the sexy British accent, as he continued to run.

"Just be warned that when I catch you I won't let you go," she replied, as she increased her speed, getting closer to her goal.

"I'm countin' on it, Summers," he told her, turning around and pedaling backwards for a few seconds, then turned back around and started to run again.

Buffy continued to chase him down the beach, getting closer to her goal. She laughed as she finally caught up to him, knowing all along he'd allowed her to.

"Gotcha," she said, as she wrapped her arms around his waist.

"I’m yours now, Summers," William said and he stopped running, causing her to knock them over onto the sand. He rolled over on to his back, keeping her above him. "So what do you plan to do with me?" He asked, as he looked up her as she straddled his body.

Buffy's laugh was contagious as she admired the handsome man lying under her. "Oh! I have plans on top of plans for you Mister, and they all include me as well."

"So you plan to share these said plans?" William asked as his hands rubbed up and down her back.

"Nope, you will have to hang around for the next 50 or 60 plus years to find out all of my plans for you," Buffy said as she leaned down, with her hands spread across his chest, loving the feel of him beneath her.

"Hmmm, 50 or 60 years, or more," Spike said as he looked up at her, pretending to contemplate his answer. "That's a long time, Pet."

Buffy pouted as she gave him her puppy dog look, "I promise you won't regret it."

"Then how can I refuse such a lovely offer," Spike whispered as his hand came up behind her neck, pulling her down so he could kiss her.

"Hey, what's that big old smile for?" Willow asked, noticing when she looked over at her best friend she had a huge smile on her face.

Buffy blushed, having been caught daydreaming. "I dreamt about me and William."

Willow got up off of her bed and walked over and sat on Buffy's bed. "Must have been a good one from that happy face I just witnessed."

Buffy smiled shyly as she replied, "yeah, he let me catch him."

"Catching is good," Willow giggled, happy that Buffy was sharing and not being Avoid Girl this morning. "I think it's a good sign that everything will work out."

"I think so too." Buffy sat up and let herself feel positive about her seeing William again.

"Okay, it's eight a.m., let's shower, have breakfast, and then pool it for a few hours," Willow suggested.

"Sounds great. Jenny said she would find us. She needed some mother and daughters bonding time," Buffy replied, as she watched Willow get up and move over to the dresser drawers.

The older woman had wanted to talk to about William, earlier. Jenny explained that William had a full schedule today, having pictures taken with fans. Hints where given, suggesting quietly, maybe she should be the one to make the first move. Thus she had come back to her room, falling asleep thinking of ways she'd approach William.

Willow opened the drawer, gathering what she would need after her shower. "I think we should take the Spa menu and see what we can afford. Then if we find something within our price range we can make a reservation our next at sea day." Willow offered, wondering what it would feel like being pampered for the day.

"That, my friend, is a marvelous suggestion. We can get a facial and pedicure," Buffy agreed.

"I call first shower," Willow said as she walked over to the bathroom, since Buffy was still sitting on her bed.

"Go for it, I’ll get my stuff together and pull out the Spa menu," Buffy said as she waved the redhead onward.

Buffy stood up and then walked over to the balcony door. She took a deep breath and made a promise to herself that she would not let her fears and insecurities get in the way of William. "I hope you don't mind Spike Crawford, but you will always be the William that swept me off my feet to me."

*******

Spike offered up a weak smile when Giles gave him another bottle of water. They had taken a fifteen-minute break. They had been having their pictures taken non-stop over the last fifty minutes.

"I’m seeing spots on top of the spots," Spike grumbled good-naturedly.

"Yes, I agree," Giles chuckled, watching his friend closely to make sure he was holding up being so close to Angel and being hung-over as well.

Wesley stood and watched Spike closely as well. He knew that after today he'd have to keep a closer eye on Mr. O'Connor since the man had been shooting daggers with his eyes at Spike since the first fan had personally thanked Spike.

"So do you have plans after the shoot?" Giles asked, feeling better having seen Spike drink half the bottle of water easily.

"Yeah, I have a blonde little bird to look up," Spike replied, making sure no one other the Giles and Wesley was close enough to hear him.

"I would like a word with you first, if you don't mind," Giles requested, knowing Spike needed to know of Darla's involvement, and how she had come clean on her own to Buffy.

Spike gave Giles a questioning look, wondering if he was going to get another lecture or something. "Something I did wrong?"

Giles quickly reassured the younger man it was nothing he had done. "No, my boy, just something I think you should know is all."

Spike relaxed as he was about to reply when Cordy called out, "Break time over, time to go back to saying 'cheese'."

Giles had kept an eye out for Darla making sure she was all right. He had noticed how she had managed to keep away from Angel spending most of her time talking with Robert, and then going over and talking with the photographer.

Angel was finding it hard to keep his temper under control. First, Spike not reacting the way Angel had envisioned the man would have. Plus the matter of his little band of English wimps gathered around him like a shield. Second, Darla acting all weird and avoiding him- which was really pissing him off. Now all the little adoring fans were paying more attention to sitting next to Spike, who was sitting in the chair he should have been in.

He bit his tongue to keep from demanding his turn to sit in the chair. The last thing Robert needed to think was that Angel was petty or jealous. Which he felt he was neither of them, he just thought he was the star and deserved to be treated as such. He needed to find a way to see if Spike had watched the little treat he had left him. He just couldn't think of a way to find out without tipping his hand, he planned to play the injured party, making them believe someone had stolen the tape from his private collection.

*******

Buffy turned over onto her stomach, so she could work on getting an even tan. She had looked at her watch noticing it was soon to be time for the photo shoot to be over. The thought of seeing William warmed her and scared her at the same time.

That little voice of doubt that Jenny was wrong, and he wouldn't want anything to do with her, kept creeping up out of the darkness that represented her deepest fears and insecurities. But she refused to let it win, this time was different, William was different. He was not Parker or her father. Finally she had enough and tried to get back reading the book she had bought at the airport, hearing it was a great read.

Willow sat up and applied more sunscreen, not wanting to burn so soon on her vacation. She looked over at the pool and noticed a man playing with what appeared to be his small daughter in the pool. He was trying to teach her how to swim, as who appeared to be her mother, looked on.

"Awe! How cute." Willow voiced out loud. "They make the cutest little family."

Buffy looked over at her friend and then toward where she was smiling. She noticed the little girl smiling up at her father as if he was the king of the world. It brought back memories of when she had looked at her father with the same adoring look on her face.

"I can't wait until that's me," Willow sighed, not realizing what she had said.

Buffy gasped, Willow's words reminding her of what she would not be able to give to a marriage. "I think I will go and get a shower," she said as she stood up and gathered her things.

Willow realized what she had said, forgetting for a minute how sensitive Buffy was about babies. "Buffy, I'm sorry."

Buffy fought hard to hold back the tears. "It's okay, honest. It’s my problem to deal with, it's not your fault I can't have children. I need to shower and get ready. Enjoy the sun and I’ll catch you later."

Willow stood up and pulled her friend into a tight hug. "You will make a wonderful mom someday. Remember there are other alternatives if you really want a child."

Buffy returned the hug. "I know, and maybe someday, husband or not, I just might do that," she replied, wondering if William would feel the same thing once he found out.

"Go, get all prettied up and ready for Spike," Willow said as she gave her friend an encouraging smile. "Don't let this give you an excuse to not give him a chance."

Buffy nodded her head, "I promise not to let it interfere in my getting to know William."

"Good, now off with you," Willow said, thinking how the world was a funny place. There were people out there getting pregnant and having abortions, or giving their babies up for adoption. Then there were the women like Buffy who had good mother written all over them and couldn't get pregnant.

Buffy walked slowly to her cabin as she remembered the day she found out she wouldn’t be able to carry a life inside her. Her mother had several miscarriages, before and after having her. Then came the day she had overheard her father and mother arguing.

"Joyce, you can't give me what I need, I need a son to carry on my name." Hank's voice sounded cold and uncaring.

"But, you love me," Joyce cried. "You love our daughter, you just can't walk out on us like this."

"I do love you Joyce, just not like I used to," Hank replied.

"But, Buffy, what about our daughter?" Joyce asked. She pointed up toward the stairs, where neither of them knew their daughter was hiding.

"Joyce, don't make this about Buffy, I love her, but I need more then what a daughter can give me," Hank tried to explain. "Margaret is pregnant with my child, it's a boy and I plan on being a hands on father and for him to carry my name legally."

"So, you are going to divorce me and marry her, just to give your bastard your name?" Joyce looked ready to kill, her hands fisted. "So you screwed your little secretary, not using protection, and now you got her pregnant and feel the need to break up your family for her because she is giving you a son."

"Yes, and no, I do love her Joyce, she makes me feel whole," Hank answered her as honestly as he could.

"Get out. Get the Hell out of my house," Joyce told her husband, her voice tight with the emotion she was holding back. "You are a bastard, a cheating heartless bastard."

"No, Joyce I'm just a man who has moved on," Hank said before he turned to pick up his suitcases. "I will pick up the rest of my things the end of the week. Harold will contact you when the divorce papers are ready to for you to sign. I just pray, Joyce, you don't give me a hard time with this."

"Oh, don't worry. I can't wait to no longer be your wife. And I hope Margaret finds out what a faithless piece of garbage you really are," Joyce spat. "Now get out, but before you leave, I want the key."

"Joyce, I have the rest of my stuff to get."

"I don't care, I will be more the happy to pack it up and you can have someone come and pick it up," Joyce said as she held out her hand for the house key. "You no longer have any rights to come and go as you please here, it is no longer your home."

Hank put down the suitcases so he could reach into his pants pocket to pull out his set of keys. He removed the house key and handed it to her. "Tell Buffy I love her and will be in touch."

"Yeah, right." Joyce rolled her eyes before looking back at her husband. "Leave it to me to try and make it right between you and your daughter. You are a coward for not talking to her and telling her what you’re doing."

"She would take it better from you," he tried to reason to her as well as to himself.

"Bull. That is a load of bull, and you know it," Joyce said as she pointed her finger at the door. "Now, just get the Hell out of my home."

"Goodbye Joyce," Hank sighed.

"Go to Hell Hank," Joyce sneered.

Buffy sat on the bed as everything hit her at once. The knowledge that her father had left because another woman was giving him a son hurt so badly it burned her soul. The fact he placed the importance over carrying on the family name more so than loving his family, made her lose faith in love.

Buffy continued to walk to her cabin. She thought about her sixteenth birthday when she had finally confronted her mother on having babies, and the real reason her father had left them. Her mother had told her it was not important at the time to be worried over something like that. But Buffy had been relentless until they had gone to the old family doctor, Doctor Benson, to be examined.

He had sent her for several tests, including an ultrasound. He had sat them down and explained that her female organs were not as they should be. That her ovaries were not the size they should be. He had told them the tests proved she was sterile.

Buffy opened the door to her cabin and forced herself to walk to the bathroom and turn on the shower. Slipped off her bathing suit and pulled the band out of her hair before stepping under the warm water. She refused to let this get her down, for all she knew William didn't want a family.

*******

"I cannot wait," Wesley sighed. "I'm thinking a nice swim in the pool is just what the doctor ordered."

"Well, no lying in the sun for me, mate. Would be too hard to explain a vampire with a tan," Spike said as he pulled out clean clothes, wanting to shower and get the sweat and make up residue washed off his body. "You go for a swim. I'm getting a shower and then going to find a girl."

"Yes, I think that would be good," Wesley replied as he thought about Willow, hoping he might be able to steal a moment of time while Spike and Buffy worked things out between them.

"Maybe you can work some magic with the pretty little redhead," Spike said, making Wesley think the man was reading his mind.

Wesley just smiled as he grabbed his trunks and moved toward the bathroom. "I will be out in a minute, so you can try and make yourself all nice and pretty."

"Just don't take too long primpin' in front of that mirror," Spike replied, as he looked through his clothes wondering what he should wear.

"I don't have to look in the mirror to know how manly I look in my swimwear, mind you," Wesley answered, using his most conceited tone, causing Spike to laugh.

*******

Willow sat at the poolside bar sipping on her virgin Pina Colada, watching the people around her wondering where they where they were from. She was lost in her thoughts and didn't realize she had company until he interrupted her thoughts.

"Hello, beautiful," Lindsey said, thinking to himself what a wonderful way to begin his afternoon away from work.

Willow jumped when she heard the voice so close to her ear. "Oh! Hi, Mr. McDonald."

"Lindsey," he gently chastised.

"Okay, Lindsey," Willow answered, blushing at how he was looking at her.

"So, why are you sitting here all alone?" He asked as he sat on the empty stool beside her.

"Just enjoying the day," she answered as she turned back to people watch.

"How about some company to share the enjoyable day with?" Lindsey asked, loving the way she blushed and seemed so innocent.

"You might find me very boring," she answered, feeling both excited that he seemed to be flirting with her, but uncomfortable with it at the same time.

"Oh, I find that hard to believe that you would be boring," he replied, thinking about all the things they could do together in the privacy of his cabin.

Wesley noticed Willow sitting at the bar and immediately recognized Lindsey McDonald occupying the stool beside her. He wondered what Willow would think if he walked over and initiated a conversation with her. Was she interested in the other man and would be irritated with his interruption?

"Well, only one way to find out," he said to himself as he moved to join the couple at the bar.

Willow looked up and noticed that Wesley was walking toward them, the last thing she wanted was for him to think she and Lindsey had anything going on between them. She felt her heartbeat a little faster, when her eyes met his.

Lindsey noticed he had lost her attention and looked to see what had grabbed it away from him. He tensed up when he noticed one of the actors from the show coming toward them. The last thing he needed was for one of the mighty actors to come right now and ask him to do something for them.

"Good afternoon, Willow," Wesley greeted her with a relaxed smile, when in fact he felt like he was walking on a tight rope over a pit of alligators.

"Hi, Wesley," Willow returned the greeting, feeling like her chest was full of butterflies about to make an escape at anytime.

"Mr. McDonald, I hope all is well with you sir?" Wesley politely acknowledged the other man.

"Yes, Mr. Pryce it is going rather well," Lindsey answered, while thinking, ‘It was until you decided to grace us with your presence.’

"Have you eaten lunch yet?" Wesley asked, deciding to take it slow and see just what was going on between Willow and Lindsey.

"Nope, was just thinking what I would like to have for lunch," Willow answered. "I'm starved."

"I had a quick bite before coming down to the pool," Lindsey told them, his gut telling him that the actor dude was after the girl.

"Would you care to join me for a bite?" Wesley asked, again keeping it a general invitation while praying the other man would find something else to do with his time.

"Sure," Willow gladly accepted the invitation, feeling more comfortable now that Wesley was around.

"I don't mind if I do," Lindsey replied, feeling up for a challenge.

Lindsey cursed to himself when his ship phone rang. "Excuse me for a moment," he said as he walked away from the couple.

"We can wait," Wesley offered, feeling it would be in his best interest to be act the gentleman at this point.

Lindsey hit the talk button. "McDonald here."

"Hey, I need you to come and give me a hand here," Cordy told him, knowing he was going to be mad.

"Right now? Do I have to come right now?" Lindsey groaned. "I have the red little number here, and I don't want to loose her to the pansy."

"Who's the pansy?" Cordy asked.

"That Wesley fellow," Lindsey complained to his co-worker. "I was really making some lead way here."

"Lindsey, you need to stop trying to make lead ways and find yourself a woman to settle down with and start a family," Cordy told him, all the while laughing.

"You are a true friend, Chase," Lindsey growled sarcastically through the phone. "I'll be there and so help me, you had better have something important to do."

"Oh, I think needing you to help me fix this photo printer problem is very important," Cordy informed him. "Especially since we need to have these pictures ready to give out by the end of the week."

"Like I said, I'll be right there," Lindsey told her, cursing his luck, and praying he'd still have time to have a taste of the strawberry before the cruise was over.

Wesley looked over and noticed that the poor man was very unhappy about whatever he was being told over the phone. He could not help but smile to himself and wonder if there indeed was a God, or some power to make wishes come true.

"What have you been doing to occupy yourself?" Wesley asked, thinking it was a innocent enough question to further investigate the relationship between Willow and Lindsey.

"I was people watching, until Lindsey came over just a few minutes ago," Willow told him, hoping he got the hint that she was not there with Mr. McDonald.

"How do you people watch?" Wesley asked, his heart feeling lighter hearing that she was here on her own, not on a date.

"Well, I pick a person and try and figure out where they’re from," she told him. "Take the lady standing by edge of the pool talking with one of the crew. She looks like she is from Sweden, with her blonde, almost white hair, and pale eyes."

Wesley smiled as he told her who she really was. "She is actually from the United States and her name is Yolanda."

"You know her?" Willow asked, as she looked from the woman back to Wesley.

"Well, I don't know her personally other than she is one of the fans on the cruise that has respected our privacy," Wesley told her.

"Well, I never did say I had gotten my technique perfected, yet," Willow said as she gave him a shy smile.

"Well, when you get it perfected let me know. I will produce your late night look into the stars show and we will become rich," Wesley replied, finding it so easy to joke with her.

"Oh yay, I have found my calling! Willow the Witch. Let me tell you your fortune and offer you spells to help you through life. If you have a rat problem call me, I’ll turn her into a maid or something," Willow giggled, making Wesley laugh right along with her.

"Sorry to interrupt, but duty calls," Lindsey tried very hard to keep the anger out of his voice.

"Sorry to hear that mate," Wesley managed to sound as if he was sorry to hear the man's news.

"Yes, it must be terrible to have to work while on a lovely ship as this one," Willow's sympathy was sincere, but she was happy all the same that he was going to have to leave.

"Hope I can call you later?" Lindsey asked, hoping she’d say yes.

Willow felt pressured to be polite, not wanting to be rude. "Sure, but I'm not sure how much free time I will have."

Wesley noticed how her soft gentle smile appeared forced. He figured she didn't know how to tell the man she was not interested in his attention. "Any where in particular you'd like to eat, my dear?" Wesley asked, to try and avoid Lindsey asking for something more definitive.

Willow looked thoughtful, thinking where she'd like to have lunch. "How about the Horizon Court?"

"Lovely choice," Wesley replied, before he turned toward the other man who was glaring at him. "If you will excuse us then, I feel I'm rather peckish at the moment."

"See you around, Lindsey," Willow said, as she waved goodbye, oblivious to the silent communication between the two men. She took the arm that Wesley offered and allowed him to escort her to lunch.

*******


I promise.....next chapter hint hint......

Sorry if some of you think I'm overdoing it...please realize we have covered three days of many different people....oh and the plot, I can't forget the plot....as complicated as it may seem. My intent is also to brng the cruise to life as they travel. Give some glimpse to the islands and the activities aboard the ship. Now on to the story.....enjoy


Buffy stood staring at the cabin door nibbling anxiously on her bottom lip. It felt like her heart was up in her throat. She continued to stare at the door, waiting for her hand to accept the command to knock. "Come on Buffy, you can do this," she mumbled to herself.

After getting dressed after coming from the pool, with Jenny telling her that the photo shoot would be over by noon, she had some time to think things over some more. During that time, she had come up with the idea she would be the one to approach William. In her mind, what better way of starting over and making amends than by offering the olive branch and asking for his forgiveness for over reacting the way she did.

Now all she had to do was lift her pitiful non-cooperating appendage and knock on his door. "Well here goes nothing, or everything," she said as she finally made her hand knock on the door.

*******

Spike stood staring at the door, wondering if he should rush right out and over to Buffy's room. Would it show her how weak he truly was, or how much power she had over him? Should he take his time, or would it matter one way or the other if he even set eyes on her again? Would it matter as much to her as it does to him?

He had picked out his outfit with care. He chose his favorite black jeans, with the midnight blue tee shirt. He was going for the casual look and not dressing to impress. He looked down at his hand, willing it to reach out and grab the doorknob as he mumbled. "Come on Spike, ole man, you can do this. You can face the girl and make everything right again."

He was about to reach over and open the door when the knock startled him. "Not, now," he growled as he pulled open the door.

"Buffy?" Spike whispered, as he stood in the doorway, shocked to find her here.

"Hello, William from London," Buffy said as she gave him a pretty smile, hoping he wouldn't shut the door in her face.

"I was just coming to find you," he returned her smile as he tilted his head to the side, feeling more hopeful seeing that she came knocking on his door first.

"Well, consider me found," she replied, hoping he'd invite her in.

"Yes, would you like to come in?" he asked, hoping she'd accept his invitation.

"I would love to," she answered, hoping this was a good sign that they would be able to work this out, giving that he was letting her come into his room.

Buffy entered the room and smiled at how similar it was to her and Willow's, except the color here was bluish green. She walked over toward the balcony opening the door and breathing in the ocean air. "William, I first want to apologize for my behavior," she said, having found the courage to apologize, and turned to face him.

"Buffy, you did nothing wrong, not really," Spike said, trying to relieve her of that responsibility. "I take complete blame." He moved closer toward her, stopping when he was about a foot away.

Buffy looked him in the eyes, surprised at first at how close he had gotten to her without her realizing he had in fact moved. "No, I should have given you the chance to explain. The only excuse I have to offer is I was hurt in the past and I let it impede my on judgment."

"I will accept your apology if you accept mine," Spike offered as a compromise. "I too have been hurt in the past and used because of my status."

Buffy smiled as she held out her hand. "Deal, let's shake on it."

Spike chuckled as he took her small hand into his. "It's done then."

"So, can a girl take a guy to lunch?" Buffy asked, as she reluctantly pulled her hand away from his.

Spike couldn't hold back his smile, any sign of his morning hangover, now gone. "Are you asking me on a date?" he asked, as he put his hands in his pockets and rocked nervously back and forth on the balls of his feet, feeling good that they were able to move forward.

Buffy's face took on a serious look as she pretended to ponder his question, before answering. "I guess I am. So, what's your answer?"

"Then, dear Buffy Anne Summers from Sunnydale, I'd be proud to be your date," Spike answered, as he held out his hand hoping she'd take the hint.

Buffy smiled as she placed her hand in his and let him lead her toward the door. She felt like she was back in high school and going out on her first date. She realized now she had done the right thing by coming to him and not waiting for him to come to her.

Spike stopped at the door and turned around pulling her closer as he asked her, "So, Pet, where are you takin' me?" He looked do cute with his head tilted to one side as he waited for her answer.

Buffy looked up at him and smiled. "How about somewhere we can be alone?"

Spike's face took on a 'yeah right' before he replied, "Not sure there's such a place here, Luv."

"Room service in my room," Buffy winked. "That way we can eat, talk, and relax."

Spike pulled his lower lip between his teeth, his eyes showing his excitement. "That's perfect. We can eat on the balcony and enjoy the sun and sea as we get to know each other better."

"I take it you like my idea?" Buffy asked.

"I love your plan," Spike replied as he turned around and opened the door never letting her hand go. "So, Red is having fun in the sun is she?"

"I'm sure she is doing something nice and fun," Buffy replied, hoping Willow was doing just that.

Spike smiled, feeling like was just handed the Publisher's Clearance House winning sweepstakes. The tape was not forgotten, but pushed far enough back he was not going to let it interfere in his happiness right now. He was going to take Giles' advice and not let Angel's jealous bullshit keep him from getting to know this woman better and living his life without letting anything stand in the way of his happiness.

*******

Willow laughed as she and Wesley talked about what shows they like and didn't like. It seemed their tastes ran the same, they both hated reality T.V. "I can't believe that people actually fall for some of the stuff they have on television these days."

Wesley nodded his head, enjoying her company more and more. "I have to agree, but then it will become old hat and they will move on to something new. It is the way of entertainment."

Willow agreed, "I want to be given something that makes me think, use my brain and yet tells me a story."

"Yes, that is what I like about acting, is being involved in telling the story," Wesley agreed, telling her a little bit more about himself.

"How did you know you wanted to be an actor?" Willow asked, sitting at the table with her chin propped up on her hand. She wanted to know everything she could possibly find out.

Wesley blushed. "I found out by accident when I was asked one day to help a friend so he could practice his lines, since his usual partner was ill with the flu."

"Was it Spike?" she asked.

"No, I didn't meet him until I decided to change my studies from law to performing arts," Wesley answered. "Once I read with Billy, he told me I was a natural and should try out for the part I had just read."

"Did you get the part?" Willow asked, excited she was getting to know so much about him.

"Yes, I was offered the part," Wesley frowned. "It changed my life, in more ways than one I might say."

Willow noticed the sadness that briefly flashed in his blue eyes. "Not all for the good?" she asked, hoping he wouldn't stop telling her about himself.

Wesley looked up and noticed the look of compassion, not pity on her face. He still could not believe he had confided so much so soon to her. All he could think was maybe she was a witch and had placed a spell on him, making him defenseless against her.

"Well, you have to understand that my career change interfered in my father's plans for my future. He thought it below our station to be an actor, that it was an irresponsible career with no future, not a lifestyle to raise his grandchildren around either," Wesley explained. "So, he tried to blackmail me with the threat of disowning me to bring me back into the box he had created for me."

"Oh! Goodness! Please tell me he didn't disown you?" Willow hoped and prayed his parent had not been so evil to do such a thing to his own flesh and blood.

"I'm sorry to disappoint you, but yes, he did," Wesley sighed, wishing this conversation had never started. It brought up bad memories and opened a few old wounds as well. "You see my father is a very proud man, and his pride would never let him admit he was wrong, even if he thought he was. He made me an example so my brothers would not follow in my footsteps and defy him."

"So, he disowned you, your name is never to be mentioned, and you are not allowed to step foot on the family estate ever again?" Willow asked finding it hard to believe someone would turn their back on their child like that. "What about your mother, and the rest of your family?"

"Yes, he did, and as for the rest of my family, they fell into line just as he knew they would," Wesley smiled sadly. "But enough about me tell me something about you." Willow blushed as she took a sip of her drink. She contemplated what to say then saved when he asked her, "What do you do for a living?"

"I'm currently teaching preschool age children, until something at the elementary school opens up," Willow answered, smiling as she thought about the kids. "I would love to teach second or third graders."

"Are you limited to just working in Sunnydale or if something was offered elsewhere would you take it?" Wesley asked, wondering if something or someone kept her tied to her hometown.

"I think I'd be too scared to at the moment, this is the first time I’ve been out of Sunnydale," she answered quickly. "But I'm sure if the right reason came up I'd find a way to make myself move."

"Yes, you would be amazed at what you might find out about the world and yourself by leaving home." Wesley gave her a reassuring smile. "Are you seeing anyone back home?"

Willow blushed. "No, no one at the moment. Me and my boyfriend recently decided to see other people."

Wesley reached over and patted her hand trying to offer her some form of comfort. "I take it that it was a mutual decision, then."

Willow nodded her head yes, and then turned the question around on him. "So, are you dating anyone?"

Wesley chuckled to himself, thinking about the last date he had a few months back. Something his agent had arranged. His agent had set him up on a blind date with another up and coming actress, who was looking to get noticed. The night was a disaster, and he threatened to fire him the next time he even suggested another fiasco like that again.

"No, not dating anyone at the moment," Wesley answered. "I'm going to go out on a limb here. I find that I'm attracted to you and would like to take this time to get to know more about you." Willow's look of surprise was only second to his own. He had even surprised himself that he had come right out and told her how he felt. "I hope I have not frightened you off?"

Willow recovered quickly responding with a shake of her head before saying, "No, you didn't. Surprised me, yes…big time, but in a good way."

"Really, in a good way, you say?" Wesley's grin light up his face.

"Very much in a good way, cause I feel the same way too, and it has nothing to do with your being an actor or famous kind of thing, honest," Willow rambled until he gently placed his finger across her lips.

"Never for a minute would I believe your interest in me has anything to do with what I do, but for who I am," Wesley reassured her.

Willow nodded her head and sighed when he removed his finger and placed his hand over hers. "How about we go on an adventure?"

"I like adventures," she replied.

"Let's explore this ship from top and bottom and see what it has to offer to entertain us," Wesley said, squeezing her hand gently.

"Okay, exploring it is then," Willow answered, feeling like she was being offered a chance in a lifetime, by allowing herself to be with this man.

Wesley led her by the hand and they walked out of the dinning area, smiling as if they had not a care in the world. Willow hoped that everything was working out for Buffy with Spike. She noticed a few glares from a few of the passengers directed her way, but refused to let it interfere in having a good time with Wesley.

*******

Once they had made it to Buffy's room, they had ordered their food. They found it was too windy on the balcony and had moved their picnic on the floor just inside. They were still able to see the sky and feel the breeze as they sat next to each other, sampling each other's food.

Buffy laughed as he continued to tell her some of the funny things he had done to earn a living, before he became finally started getting steady acting work. "I'm serious, Pet. They really wanted to pinch my nose off."

"Well, kids, clowns, big red noses," Buffy giggled. "What else is it there for? Was it one of those that made the funny honking sound?"

"Right, but remember underneath lies the real thing mind you, and no it didn't make any sounds," Spike snorted, enjoying the fact he was making her laugh.

"God, it sounds like you enjoyed the kids," she said, thinking he would make a wonderful dad someday. She refused to let her problem get her down.

"Yeah, it was good to make them laugh," he sighed as he leaned back against the bed, facing the balcony door. "How about you, Buffy, do you want children someday?"

Buffy closed her eyes, trying to will herself to remain calm. She knew it would have come out eventually, so now was a good as time as any. "I would love to have some kids running around someday. I’ll just have to adopt or find a man that has a few of his own already."

Spike was speechless and embarrassed. "I'm sorry, Pet, I'm a real insensitive ponce."

Buffy was quick to reassure him, "No, how were you supposed to know? If having children is important to you then maybe it's for the best you found out now and not later."

Spike realized then she was thinking he wouldn’t want to be with her because of her inability to have children. "Buffy, I don't care if you can have babies or not. There are other alternatives these days. I want someone I can talk to, relax and be myself with. Someone I would enjoy growing old with and share my life with, that's what I want. Children, hell, there are so many out there looking for someone to love them and take them in. I don't think that would be a problem for us, do you?"

Buffy felt the tears fighting to break free. "So, you still want to get to know me?"

"I was going to come and look you up after the cruise, what do you think?" Spike snorted, before leaning over and kissing her cheek. "I like what I see, and I like how you make me feel. I want to know everything I can about you Buffy Anne Summers."

Buffy leaned her head against his shoulder, feeling warm and protected when he wrapped his arm around her. "I like what I see too, and I like how you make me feel, and I too want to know everything I can about you William Spike Crawford."

"Well, then let me begin," Spike offered. "I was born September 30th, 1975. Yes, I will soon be twenty-eigh years of age. They placed me in an orphanage in merry London at birth, where they raised me until I graduated from my studies, or as you Americans call it, high school. I found work so I could go to acting school, which we will not discuss at the present time mind you. I assure you it all was on the up and up, no illegal activity to come and bite me in the arse. I met Wesley while I was studying my art, and we became best friends. He persuaded me to come to the states and audition for the part of William the Bloody and here I am. I have made several bad choices in women, until now, thank you very much. I carry a few emotional scars, and one, no two of them was brought to my attention just not too long ago."

"You never met your parents?" Buffy asked, as she lifted her hand up and cupped his cheek. "Well, I have to say- their loss."

Spike closed his eyes as he leaned into her touch. "Maybe not, if I had known them I might not be here today."

Buffy leaned up and gently kissed his lips briefly. "Then it would have been my loss, and that would have been a shame."

"Yes, Luv, that it would." He leaned in and kissed her mouth, giving her time to accept him as he gently placed his tongue against her lips, seeking entrance.

Buffy sighed as she let him deepen the kiss running her fingers through his hair before using her hand to pull his head closer. She knew they were moving too fast, but hadn't crossed any line just yet.

Spike knew he would have to stop soon, the last thing he wanted to do was scare her away by pushing for too much too soon. He pulled back and nibbled on her bottom lip before moving his lips up to kiss the tip of her nose and then forehead.

"I could spend a live time kissing you just like this," he whispered, as he guided her head back to lie against his shoulder. "Never has anyone touched me the way you do."

Buffy smiled as she snuggled against him, as she replied, "I have another secret to tell."

"Well tell away. All of your secrets are safe with me," Spike promised, as he kissed her on the top of her head.

"God, you are going to think I'm weird, I just know it," Buffy whispered, hoping he wouldn't think she was some freak.

"Tell me. I promise I won't think of you as anything other than Buffy." Spike leaned back, placing his finger under her chin and tilting her face up so he could see her face. "Give me an example of normal, and I will show you just how not normal it is. I'm a firm believer that normal is a myth that we all try to find and lose ourselves searching for it."

"I have never been with a man sexually before," Buffy blurted out, feeling her face flush.

Spike blinked a few times, taking in what she was telling him. "Well, that, my dear, is not weird, but rare. Tell me how a beauty such as yourself was saved from the hormonal pull of the school jock and university studs?"

"Well, I guess it's my turn," Buffy sighed as she lifted up her hand and took his from under her chin. She maneuvered their hands to where their fingers intertwined and laid on Spike's chest. She then reclaimed her place on his shoulder as she prepared to tell him about the life of Buffy.

"I was born to Hank and Joyce Summers on January 17, 1978, in the lovely city of Los Angeles. Yes, I'm twenty-six years old. We moved to lovely Sunnydale when I was fifteen, buy the time I was sixteen, my father had left us for a younger woman with, who was pregnant with his child. I Met Willow the first day of high school and we have been bestest friends ever since. I worked hard and was able to finish my bachelor in pre law, but the death of my mother prevented me from going on to law school. I have plans to finish and currently work as a paralegal at a law firm back home. I also work part-time as a bartender at a dance club called the Bronze, to try and help save up. I have two younger brothers and two younger sisters, and my father is still with the woman he left me and my mother for. I have not seen them since I was eighteen years old and I have not talked to my father since I graduated from college. I dated twice in my life, one broke up with me because he realized he was gay, and the other, I found out, was after me so he could tape us having sex and put it over the internet." Buffy leaned up and looked at his shocked face, wondering what he was going to say.

"Sorry to hear about you da, Pet, and I would have loved to have met your mum," Spike said as he traced her face with his finger. "I think your father is a fool. The boy couldn't help he didn't like girls, can't say I'm not happy about it, because I'm rather glad. The other wanker, well let's just say he doesn't count. He gives men a bad name."

"Yeah, he does, but I now have you to make me forget all that," Buffy smiled. "Okay, I think we’ve had enough share time. How about we go and explore this ship from stern to whatever and see what we can find to entertain ourselves."

"I like that plan, Pet. I have to say you do a great job at planning things," Spike replied as he leaned his forehead against hers. "I promise not to go too fast. We’ll go at your speed, luv."

Buffy gave him a quick kiss on the lips before she stood up and offered him her hand. "Come on, William. I want to spend as much time with you as I can before you have to work."

"It's not really work, luv," Spike smiled, liking it that she called him William. "It's giving back to the people who made it possible for me to play this character that I really enjoy playing."

"I guess I’ll have to see about spending time at Willow's so I can get a look at this character," Buffy said. "I have to say the photo has you looking all sexy and bad boy like. Is this William the Bloody a sexy bad boy?"

Spike had to laugh before he could answer her. "God, Buffy, he is a mixture of many things, and in his past he was one bad ass vampire until he earned his soul. Now he’s all over the place in his emotions still dealing with the guilt of what he done, and the demon still wanting him to forget the soul and revert to his evil ways."

"Hmmm, sounds enticing. I just might have to break down and watch TV once a week," Buffy sighed playfully.

"I could get you the DVD's if you want, the first two season are already out," Spike offered as a joke.

"But, then I'd have to buy one of those players to play them on," Buffy pouted.

"Buffy, what do you own in the way of entertainment equipment?" Spike asked.

"I have a TV and a VCR that belonged to my mom," Buffy answered.

"Cable, by any chance?" Spike asked, wondering just how far behind in the dark ages of modern entertainment she was.

"Nope, none, nada," Buffy laughed at the shocked look on his face. "I guess I could be enticed to add it, if I was given a good reason to do so. Then, again, I'd need someone very much in the know to help me out."

"Well, Luv, I know just the right man for the job," Spike replied as he wagged his eyebrows giving her a heated look.

"Okay, but only if he is handsome and good with his hands," Buffy laughed when she noticed the big smile that appeared on his face.

"Oh, I can vouch for his hands, Pet. And he knows his way around the equipment to make sure you get everything you need,” Spike replied as winked. "Now, off to explore what this ship has to offer."

Neither of them noticed they had a shadow when they left Buffy's room. Lorne followed at a respectable distance, feeling like he'd been punched in the stomach. Cordy was right, this man was as much a swinger as he was straight, no chance of it. He could feel the attraction between the couple. Someone was going to pay for playing with his emotions this way. If Cordy had not opened his eyes when she had, he would have embarrassed himself and Spike Crawford as well.

*******

Jenny watched as Willow and Buffy walked toward the dinner table. The first thing she noticed was their happy faces. She looked over at her girls and noticed their heads were together laughing about something.

"Girls, did you have a good time today?" Jenny asked her daughters.

Ally and Sara looked up at their mother and smiled. "Great time, mom," Ally said.

"Yeah, it was totally awesome," Sara, agreed.

Both girls were able to spend time with their parents playing their favorite games and joking around. They had talked their father into playing twister, and it gave them the case of the giggles, to where they laughed until tears where streaming down their faces and their bellies hurt from laughing so hard.

"Good, cause I had a great time too, as I'm sure your father did," Jenny told them. "He was still laughing about being a father pretzel when he was telling Wesley about playing twister."

"Hi everyone," Willow said as she and Buffy arrived at the table. "You guys look like you had a nice time today."

"Yep, we made Dad play Twister and stuff," Ally replied.

"I think we will call him Daddy pretzel from now on," Sarah giggled.

"So, what did you ladies do today after the pool?" Jenny asked, looking directly as Buffy with a teasing smile.

"I went exploring with Wesley," Willow told them, unable to keep from blushing.

"Really? How wonderful, and you Buffy, did you get any exploring done?" Jenny winked, taking in how the blonde's face flushed.

"I had lunch with William and then we also explored the ship," Buffy replied, thinking back to what a great time they had until he had to leave and get ready to go to work. It seemed there was another little cocktail party before dinner. Then after dinner was the masquerade party that he had to participate in.

"William? Are you talking about Uncle Spike?" Sara asked.

"Yes," Buffy answered, hoping the teenager was not going to be mad. Thinking the young girl might have a little crush on her uncle.

"Cool," Sara replied, as she gave Buffy a big smile. "Man, I like you so much better than-"

"Sara," Jenny said, her voice caring a tone that told her daughter not to cross that line.

Sara looked at her mother and apologized, "I'm sorry."

"It's okay, honey, just try and remember that you can't always say what you want, whenever you want to. I like to think I have taught you some manners in your short life," Jenny softy reprimanded her oldest.

Ally looked from Buffy to Willow happy they were dating her uncles. She never liked Harmony, and she had never met any of Wesley's girlfriends. Later she would tell her sister, who she agreed with, that she liked Buffy much better then Harmony too.

"Good evening ladies," Alfie announced himself as he came to the table to take the ladies orders.

"Alfie, how are you?" Willow asked, recognizing the porter that had helped them when they first boarded the ship.

"I'm honored that you remember my name," Alfie said, as he bowed his head toward the lovely lady, feeling special that she had remembered his name.

"How is Jeremy?" Buffy asked.

"He is doing well. He is working the other dining room tonight." Alfie smiled his shy little smile. "So what can I get for you ladies tonight? If I may make a suggestion, the seafood casserole is excellent. But take your time and look over the menu and if you have any questions please ask."

Everyone settled in, giving the young man their dinner order, Buffy chose the lamb chops with garlic potatoes. Willow, Jenny, and Sarah ordered the seafood casserole, where Allyson went with chicken tenders and fries.

*******

Giles felt relaxed as he watched Spike and Wesley banter back and forth as they walked together to dinner. Both men appeared to be relaxed, with no evidence of the events of yesterday present at this time. Spike looked rested and back to his old self. Wesley had a special gleam in his eye that had not been there this morning.

The cocktail party had ended without any incident between Spike and Angel, which had been a blessing. Angel continued to act as if nothing had happened as he greeted the fans. Since the high number of guests, they had divided the numbers so everyone would have a chance to mix and mingle with the stars in a semi-intimate setting.

"No, Spike I will not wear a dress this season," Wesley glared at his friend. "You, my dearest friend would make a much better trampy vamp in drag, so I think the dress scene should be written for you."

"Sorry, mate, you have far better legs then me," Spike said with a serious look on his face.

"You should not be paying attention to my legs," Wesley snorted.

"But, Wes remember those days you lived in tights and short little dress outfits?" Spike waggled his eyebrows.

"They do not count as dresses, they were costumes that reflected that period in time," Wesley rolled his eyes. "I remember you wearing your share of tights and puffy pants."

"Yeah, but I didn't look anywhere a good as you, Leggy," Spike said, reminding Wes of his nickname the others had given in when they had worked the Shakespeare festival so long ago.

"Yes, remind me of that embarrassing moniker why don't you," Wesley looked over at Spike and retaliated. "But, then Tigger, what is in a nickname?"

"Boys, you are telling me more then I really need to know," Giles said after clearing his throat. "Tigger? I could see that."

"Hey!" Spike exclaimed. "Who pulled your chain, Frankie?"

"What can I say, I'm not shy and I look good in black leather, fishnets, and heels. As for you, Tigger, all that is missing is the tail, but you make up for it with how you bounce about," Giles winked as he walked away leaving both Spike and Wesley speechless at first.

"Well, I guess he fits in with us more than we knew," Spike chuckled.

"How is that?" Wesley asked, his admiration for Giles grew.

"He is more in touch with his manliness then either you or me," Spike laughed, as he placed his arm around his best friend's shoulder as they entered the dinning room laughing. "I would pay good money to have seen him dancing the time warp in his costume."

They separated and went on to their dinner tables that where assigned to them for the night. Wesley felt instant relief when he noticed that the Faith woman was not assigned to his table. He was dreading the night he would be assigned to her table.

He would talk to Spike later and ask his view on how best to handle this unwanted attention without causing a scene. But then maybe it wasn't Spike he needed to talk to first. He would speak to Giles first and get his more professional opinion.

"Good evening ladies, I hope you had a pleasant afternoon," Wesley acknowledged the women at his table with a smile as he sat in his assigned chair.

"Oh, we had a lovely time," Mary said. "Hope you were able to relax and recover."

"Recover?" Wesley asked politely, worried at first that Angel had now started on him.

"We were just talking about how hard all that flashing must be on your eyes," Peggy replied.

"Oh, yes, the flashing," Wesley relaxed as he reassured them he was doing well. "I have recovered nicely, thank you for your concern, it's very touching really."

"Were you with your girlfriend today?" Judy, the 14-year-old fan asked, before her mother could shush her.

"My girlfriend?" Wesley politely asked.

"I'm sorry, Mr. Pryce, you know teenagers," Martha, Judy's mother, tried to apologize. "Judy, you really shouldn't ask such personal questions, honey."

"Please, before we go any further, I'm not upset with the question and do not mind answering," Wesley answered, offering the teenager a soft understanding smile. "She is a friend, and because I know how rumors get started, I would rather not give her name without her permission if you don't mind."

"Of course, Mr. Pryce," Martha agreed.

"Now, the next thing we need to get straight is please call me Wes or Wesley," Wes encouraged. "If you don't mind, I would like for everyone to introduce themselves. I cannot promise I will remember your name, but I can assure you I will not forget your faces."

Wesley felt relaxed as they continued to introduce themselves. He made a point to keep Judy's face and name in mind. He would ask Willow first if it was okay, and then he'd like to introduce her to Judy. He could remember being a teenager, and he knew how important it would be for her to be singled out this week.

Spike groaned when he noticed that the Angel's little tramp fanatic was sitting at his assigned table tonight. He couldn't help but wonder who was trying to ruin his close to perfect day. He knew he was going to have to work very hard at being professional, and he was not going to enjoy his meal one bit.

Spike gritted his teeth when he realized Faith would be sitting on his right. He could tell she had already been hitting the booze, and by the look of the amber liquid in her glass, she was still doing some serious drinking. He approached slowly, wondering if he could fake an illness, but then felt it would not be fair to the other six fans sitting at their table.

"Hello, ladies," Spike greeted the fans at the table.

"Well, look who we are privileged to dine with this evening," Faith said as she practically drooled. She had made it her goal to get him in the sack, since his brush-off in the elevator the other night.

Spike ignored her as he took his seat. "So, did you make new friends while waiting in line this morning?" he asked everyone at the table, hoping Faith took the hint that he was not going to talk to her.

Beatrice noticed how uncomfortable Spike was with Faith. She stood up and then walked over and stood beside his chair. "Mr. Crawford, would you be so kind as to change seats with me?"

Spike looked up at the lady who he remembered from one of the earlier cocktail parties. She had been very nice and respectful of their privacy. "Beatrice, right?" Spike asked.

"Yes," she smiled openly, feeling pleased he had remembered her name. "If you don't mind I would really like to set here, the lighting is so much better on my poor old eyes," she winked at him.

"I think they are lovely blue eyes and I cannot refuse a lady's request," Spike smiled as he stood up and held out the chair for her to sit down. He leaned down to kiss her on the cheek and whispered, "You, my friend, are a blessing."

Faith felt like reaching over and pulling out the old crone's hair. "Bitch!" she hissed, softly, thinking no one heard her.

"Did you say you had an itch?" Beatrice asked Faith, knowing full well what the little trollop had said.

Faith ignored the older lady and put her sights back on the blonde hottie. "So, who was the cute little number following you around today?"

Yolanda glared at brazen hussy, they all had complained about her behavior amongst themselves. "Mr. Crawford, I hope you are having a nice time?" she asked, redirecting the conversation.

Spike turned and gave her a grateful smile. "Yolanda, right?"

"Yes, you have a good memory," she replied.

"To answer your question, I'm having a great time, and please call me Spike," he said. "I really had my doubts, having never been on a cruise before."

"Oh honey, just wait until you hit the islands. If you love to snorkel or dive, then make sure you do it on Cozumel. The corral reefs and its habitat are breathtaking.

"Sounds fantastic, I’ll have to see about doing some snorkeling," Spike replied. "Any other tips you have for a first time cruiser?"

"The shopping is great for silver, and some precious stones," Beatrice decided to get in on the conversation. "Then at the Grand Cayman you have the turtle farms that are a great sight to see, and then of course there is Hell."

Spike laughed. "Hell, you say?"

"Oh, yes, there is a little town called Hell," Yolanda said as she tried not to laugh. "There is a little stretch of lava with a scarecrow like figure out in the middle of it that looks like the Devil. The welcome sign reads, 'Welcome to Hell'."

"Oh, how funny," Spike decided to do something special for these two lovely ladies who saved his arse tonight. "Maybe it's a hellmouth?"

Faith rolled her eyes as she sarcastically said, "Well, maybe it is."

The rest of the table ignored her as they started to introduce themselves. Spike found it easier then he had thought, to sit back and enjoy everyone's company tonight given the fact that Faith was at his table. The others made it possible to pretend that the woman that gave fans a bad name was not there. The waiter appeared and took their orders.

Angel watched as Spike maneuvered his way out of sitting next to Faith. He was sure the man had asked someone to change places with him. Angel tried to ignore the people at his table the best he could, but it would seem all they wanted to do was talk. He forced on what he called his glamour look, where he would smile when he thought he should. He had a way of making it look like he really cared about what he was doing at the time, when in fact he wished they would all jump in the ocean.

He was waiting for his next plan of action against Spike to take place. He just didn't know what was keeping the other man from making his move. He had found someone to take pictures trying to catch Spike in a delicate situation or what looked to be one. He just needed that Lorne fellow to hurry up and make his move on Spike.

*******

Spike hurried to catch up to Darla, who was standing waiting for the elevator. He snuck up behind her and said, "Boo!"

Darla was startled as she turned to see Spike laughing, his face relaxed. "You are a bad, rude man, Spike Crawford," she chastised him, trying to keep from laughing herself.

Spike winked, and ushered her into elevator when the door opened, thankful no one else joined them. He wanted to let her know he appreciated what she had done in talking to Buffy and setting her straight about Angel.

"I just wanted to say thank you," Spike said as he leaned over and kissed her forehead briefly. "If that husband of yours gives you any grief you come let me know." He winked.

"Spike, I should first ask you to forgive me," Darla said, as she became tearful. "I truly did not have time to think it out properly. I was scared."

"I understand, Pet. What's important is you came through in the end," Spike said, as he pulled her into a hug. "Angel will get his, Pet, don't you worry none. Until that no good husband of yours gets here tomorrow you stick with one of us, got it?"

Darla returned the hug, reassuring Spike, "Don't worry, my husband made me promise the same thing. For some ungodly reason he likes you, I just can't figure out way."

"It's my charming personality Luv, it gets them every time," Spike joked, he and Masters got along rather well. The man had turned him on to some great investments that helped build his retirement plan. "Jenny and the girls will be there tonight, so you just don't have to hang with the guys. Plus Anya packs a mean punch."

"Thank you," she said when the elevator door opened on her floor.

"Let me walk you to your room, my lady." Spike held out his arm. "I have to make sure no big bad is around the corner ready to pounce." Darla laughed as she took his arm and let him escort her to her room.

*******

Buffy stood at the railing admiring the moonlight as it played on the water. She replayed her day thinking about the fun she had with William and how good he made her feel. She didn't realize she had company until she heard his voice too close to her ear for comfort.

"Do you know how gorgeous you are in the moonlight?" he asked.

Buffy quickly pulled away and glared at the man. "I really don't like when people sneak up on me like that."

"You are beautiful, more beautiful than anything I have seen in my life," Angel declared, wanting to just pick her up and carry her to his room and show her what a real man could do for her.

"Excuse me, but I have some where I have to be," Buffy tried to leave, only to have him get in the way.

"Honey, whoever it is, can wait," Angel said, never having a woman tell him no before.

"No, I don't think so, so if you'll just move out of my way," Buffy told him firmly, as she brushed his hand away from touching her.

One of the things she and Spike had discussed was what to do about Angel. They both agreed that letting him think they had not figured out what he was doing was the best thing right now. Spike figured it would be best if they just let him think he was getting away with something, and then they'd be able to catch him red-handed doing something else.

Angel placed his hands on her shoulders, stopping her from leaving. "At least have a drink with me."

"Sorry, I have other plans," Buffy explained as she tried to pull away from his grasp.

"I'm sure they'd understand when you tell them you were with me," Angel offered, truly believing what he said was true.

Buffy tried not to laugh, thinking to herself, ‘sorry, don't think that would work with William, plus I don’t want to be on the same planet, let alone the same ship as you.’

"Come on, just one drink," Angel tried to insist as he started to pull her toward him.

"Ah, Miss Buffy, there ya are," Jeremy said, offering her a blazing smile. "Miss Willow was looking for you."

"Jeremy, thank you," Buffy smiled as she pulled away from Angel's touch, moving to stand in front Jeremy. "I was just on my way to meet her."

"You will find her back at your room is the message she wanted me to pass along," Jeremy lied. He had seen that the nice young woman was trying to get away from that man.

"Again, thank you for letting me know," Buffy winked, letting him know what he had done to help her.

Jeremy watched as Miss Buffy walked safely back inside the ship, placing himself between her and the jerk who was glaring at him.

"Don't you have a job to do, and not out here bothering the guests?"

"Yes, mon, and I did it," Jeremy told him before turning around and following in Buffy's footsteps.

Angel glared at the retreating man's back before he turned and walked further down the deck. He would have Buffy Summers before the week was out, she would be his and he would flaunt it in the peroxide blonde's face.

*******

Wesley smiled as he lay on his back, taking a little rest before the masquerade ball. He was judging with Xander the funniest costume. Spike was with Angel on scariest costume. Giles and Darla were judging the sexist, and then as a group they were to pick the most original. His thoughts kept drifting back to how he had spent his day, or more like whom he had spent the majority of it with.

Wesley could not get over how well he and Willow got along. They had so much in common, and yet enough differences to make it interesting. She was like a breath of fresh air, compared to the staleness he had become accustomed to in L.A. scene. She was intelligent, caring, had a sense of humor that matched his completely.

Wesley looked over at the door and noticed how relaxed and calm Spike appeared when he walked through the door. "I take it, the talk with Darla went rather well."

"Yeah, it did, Percy," Spike answered, feeling like back to himself. "She is quite a woman, that Darla. Masters had better make sure he takes good care of that one."

"I agree, she is rather special to do what she is doing in defying her blackmailer," Wesley agreed. "I still say we confront the bastard and then take him down a few pegs."

"Patience, he will get what is coming, don't you worry your pretty little head about that," Spike reassured his friend. "I just want to make sure that I can make it all stick like glue."

"I understand," Wesley said, "But I will not let him hurt you again, understand I will have no patience with the man if he does."

"I understand. But now that I know who and what I’m up against he has no power over me anymore," Spike explained. "Forewarned is forearmed."

"I have the tape somewhere safe," Wesley informed his best friend.

"Doesn't matter, I'm sure he had some excuse ready that's somewhat believable," Spike replied. "Probably tell people someone stole it from his home to cause trouble between us. Explain Dru and Harmony off as they came to him and most people would believe him. He is the media darling after all."

"Yes, but the darling is starting to overplay his hand," Wesley said as he sat up on the side of his bed. "I think that others have noticed his underhandedness. I don't think he is believed to be the goody good boy as he thinks."

"You could be right on that one," Spike agreed as he sat across from his best friend. "I think we just have sit back and let Angel dig his own hole, and then all we have to do is bury him in it."

"Well then, it's off to the ball, my dear boy," Wesley sighed. "Again, I have you as a date."

"Nope, hear you are stepping out on me with Xander," Spike playfully accused him.

"Well I know your virtue is safe, since you are paired with Captain Forehead," Wesley told him as he stood up and walked over toward the door. "Just be careful around him tonight."

"I promise," Spike said as he followed his friend out the door.

******

Willow laughed as she watched Buffy jump up and down calling for her lucky red 7's to come in as the slot machine twirled. They had come with Jenny to check out the casino while waiting for the men to get done with the masquerade. Anya took the girls with her so they could look at all the cool costumes.

"Look I hit three pineapples," Buffy called out, as she placed another bet and pulled the handle. "I just know this is my lucky machine."

Jenny watched the young blonde having a great time playing on the nickel machine. She wondered how Buffy was going to react when Spike came and played high stakes. She was sure the young girl was going to feel just a little out of her league at first.

She looked over at Willow hoping everything would work out for her and Wesley. She was sure they belonged together. Maybe she would see if both the young ladies would let her read their palms later.

"Jenny, look, I'm up twenty dollars," Buffy laughed. "Tonight is my lucky night."

Willow fought the urge to gamble with Buffy. She had decided to wait and see how much money she had left on the last night on the ship. She first wanted to make sure she picked up souvenirs for everyone, including herself. So, for tonight, she decided to live vicariously through Buffy.

"I say- quit while you are ahead," Jenny teased. "That's twenty more dollars that you have to spend in Montego Bay tomorrow."

"Oh, reminds me we have to be up in the morning and ready to leave by 7:30 so we can make our tour," Willow told both Buffy and Jenny.

Since the men had to work until one in the afternoon, the women had put their heads together and planned to spend their morning together. The men would then meet them and spend the last two or three hours with them on the island.

"How about we meet for breakfast at seven?" Jenny suggested. "I know I cannot let the girls go without their most important meal of the day."

"Oh, I bet they’re grouchy if you don’t feed them breakfast," Willow said, knowing she was the same way.

"Grouchy is a mild description," Jenny snickered.

"Then breakfast it is," Buffy agreed, as she hit the pay out button on the slot machine.

"How about we go over and look at the tables?" Jenny asked.

"Okay by me, how about you Buffy?" Willow turned to her friend and asked.

"Fine by me," Buffy answered. "Do you understand how to play any of the table games?" she asked Jenny.

"Yes, I do," Jenny answered. "Come on and I will give you a quick little run down. We can start at the Black Jack table."

"Is that where you go bust over 21?" Willow asked.

"Yes, come on and let's go have some fun," Jenny told them as she hooked her arms through theirs and escorted them to the Black Jack tables.

*******

Anya didn't know whose eyes to cover first, trying to keep the girls from seeing the inappropriate costume on display at the moment. "Girls look over at your father this instant and don't ask any questions."

"But-" Ally tried to say something only to be cut off by her uncle's voice.

"Do as she says, Pet," Spike softly reprimanded the youngest Giles. "Will explain in a moment, don't you worry."

"Okay," Ally sighed, knowing her uncle would keep his word.

Sara rolled her eyes having already seen the see-through outfit that some woman was wearing. She was sure that Anya was going to take them out of the party.

Giles felt his blood pressure rise when he looked over and noticed the woman's costume that did not belong here. He had made a point to make sure Anya and Spike had his girls already taken care of. This event had been advertised from the beginning, as a family event since families with children had signed on for this cruise.

He stalked over at the young man that was part of the management. "Excuse me Mr. McDonald, may I have a moment of your time?"

Lindsey knew exactly why Mr. Giles' approach was on the angry side. "I believe I know what you are about to ask me."

"Maybe you do, then maybe you don't, since I have not seen anything being done about the woman who is practically naked," Giles fumed, as he continued to glare at the younger man.

"I believe something is about to be done," Lindsey attempted to keep the anger out of his voice.

Giles looked over toward the woman who had been causing them moments of discomfort since the beginning of the cruise. He noticed that the young woman who had been taking the photographs earlier approaching the trollop with a tablecloth over her arm.

Cordy wanted so much to just smack the loony tramp and be done with it. The only complaints that were truly legit, concerning the con were those concerning the little bitch she was about to wrap up like a mummy. Then she had the privileged of telling her to return to her room and change.

"Excuse me, Miss," Cordy tried to sound polite as she addressed the little ho bag. "But I'm going to have to ask you to cover yourself up with this," she said as she handed the woman the tablecloth.

"Excuse yourself, honey, but this right here is first place," Faith replied, giving the other woman the, 'I can't believe you are talking to me', kind of look.

"This is a rated PG event not NC-17, so yes, I'm now telling you to cover yourself and to leave the party," Cordy dropped the politeness from her voice.

"I'm not leaving," Faith told her as she turned to walk away.

"No, you are leaving my dear and if you don't do it nicely then I will have to revoke your admission to the rest of the events as well," Lorne informed her, as he finally had made his way to Cordelia's side to assist her.

"I want to talk to the head honcho," Faith demanded. "I don't see anything wrong with my outfit.”

Lorne found himself speechless at first. He couldn't believe this woman. How could she think that wearing a long black gown, hanging on her body like it was painted to her skin, and the area that should conceal her breasts was transparent was appropriate at a family gathers. It was truly a great costume, for an adult oriented party, but not here where families with young children present.

"I'm sorry, but you should have read the rules," Lorne finally found his voice. "You see we have young children here and your outfit, even if it's fantastic, is not appropriate here tonight. I need you to cover up and go back to your room and change, or I will have to have you escorted out."

Faith noticed that some of the crew that was working the party was walking toward them and went on the defense. "Well, I can see this is going to be one boring ass party."

"Does that mean you have decided to find your fun elsewhere?" Cordy asked as she handed the tablecloth back to the bitch in heat.

Faith glared at the other woman, wishing they weren't so public, and then she'd show the uppity broad a thing or two. "I'm sure there is much more fun to be had at a funeral then here right now," she replied as she took the tablecloth and put it over her arm.

Everyone watched as the brunette, whom everyone wished had stayed home, walked out of the room proudly carrying the tablecloth over her arm. When the door closed behind her someone started clapping. Others followed suit and soon everyone was clapping. Lorne cued up the music, and everyone started to enjoy the party.

Giles looked over at Lindsey and reached out his hand. "I owe you an apology, it's just that I have my daughters here tonight and I let my temper get the better of me."

Lindsey responded by sincerely accepting the man's apology and shaking the man's hand. "I'm not a father, but I think I would have been upset myself if my children would have been here."

Giles nodded as he turned to go and check on his girls. He noticed that Spike was sitting in one of the chairs across from Ally and looked like they were deep in discussion. Giles wondered just how much that woman's lack of sense his girls were exposed to, and just how much explaining he would have to do to Jenny.

"Listen, Ally my girl, you see this woman was wearing something we didn’t think you should be seeing," Spike was explaining to Allyson, while the whole time he could see Sara rolling her eyes.

"So, what was she wearing?" Allyson asked, wishing she had seen what Spike was talking about since she knew Sara had seen it.

"A dress that was showing more than a woman should show in public," Spike sighed, wishing Giles would show up about now and take over. "Pet, if I ever catch you or your big sis wearing anything close to that outfit I will wrap you up like a mummy and lock you in the closet until we find a nunnery that will take you."

Allyson giggled at Spike's words. She knew he would probably do just what he threatened. Sara laughed aloud, "Yeah, right!"

Giles had to stop himself from laughing hearing the bleached blonde talking to his youngest. He had noticed Sara's behavior and decided he would start with his oldest. "Sara, may I have a word with you?"

Sara's eyes grew big and knew she was about to be given the father/daughter talk. "Sure Dad."

Spike sent her a wink and smile that told her he knew her father had busted her. He turned his attention back to the youngest sister and asked, "So, Pet, do you have any more questions?"

"No," Allyson replied as she watched her sister walk toward their father, her head hung down. She thought to herself that Sara must have been rolling her eyes and was going to get a talking too.

Anya smiled as she watched Spike deal with the Giles' girls. Xander had come to stand by her when he noticed the attention being given the scantly clad female fan at the time. He felt his place was by his wife and offered his support to her since she had the girls with her.

"I hope one day we have children and can be so understandingly parental like that," Anya sighed as she took her husband's hand.

"Yeah, who would have thought bleach boy would be so good with kids," Xander chuckled as he gently squeezed her hand.

Giles looked down at his oldest and leaned down to kiss her hair. "Sara, you really shouldn't show such disrespect to Spike."

Sara looked up at her father confused. "I didn't disrespect Uncle Spike, Daddy."

Giles gave her an understanding smile. "Poppit, when you rolled your eyes like you did, I viewed it as lack of respect, and the comment you made as well."

Sara became tearful. "I'm sorry."

She really didn't mean any insult, she had just thought what Spike said was funny. It didn't help she saw in her mind Spike carrying a mummy the size of Allyson over his shoulder at the time.

"I'm not the one you should apologize to," Giles pulled his eldest into a tight hug.

"I guess I need to tell him I'm sorry," Sara said, her voice muffled by her father's chest.

Giles chuckled. "Yes, I'm so proud of you for thinking to do that all on your own."

Sara hugged her father before she stood up on her tiptoes and kissed his cheek. She then turned and walked over to where Spike was standing with the others.

"Uncle Spike, can I talk to you, please?" Sara asked him.

"Any time sweets, you know that," Spike answered as he gave her a loving smile.

Sara's smile grew as he came and wrapped his arm around her and led her over away from the others. "So my little Sara Lee, what can I do for you?"

"I want to tell you I'm sorry for disrespecting you earlier," Sara replied, looking up at him with her puppy dog brown eyed look that melted his heart every time. She knew by him using his nickname for her that he wasn't mad at her.

"Thanks, pet." Spike knew she was not really disrespecting him in a true sense, but he would not try and question Giles' parenting. "But, I mean it, wrapped like a mummy and locked away."

"I believe you," Sara agreed, she knew he or Wesley would always look out for them and protect them.

"Now why don't you go on and enjoy the party," Spike said, before giving her instructions that would help him, "Give me one wink for great costume and two winks for needs to go back to the drawing board."

"Okay," she giggled as she tiptoed up and pulled him down to place a kiss on his cheek and whisper in his ear. "Love you."

Spike leaned down and kissed her on the top of her head, and replied, "Love you, too."

He stood and watched at the young girl skipped back toward her sister. He loved both girls as if they were his own. There wasn't anything he wouldn't do for either girl or their parents. Spike had come to consider Wesley and the Giles' his family.

"Well that went rather well," Wesley snickered. "I'm thanking the Gods I was otherwise preoccupied." He looked over at the girls talking with their father now.

"Wasn't too bad, Percy," Spike snorted giving the man a knowing wink, "Just practice run for when I have to save your arse."

"My arse is just fine, thank you," Wesley replied, giving the blonde a mocking glare.

"We’ll see, when I have to have those talks with your kids one day, cause their Da was preoccupied doing the practice runs," Spike chuckled as he looked over and noticed the man in charge of the con was taking the stage. "Lights, camera, action mate."

Wesley turned his head to see what Spike was referring to and noticed that Lorne was taking the stage. "Seems we are about to get the party started is right."

Lorne took the microphone and addressed the party. "Good evening everyone. I must apologize for the lateness, but it will not interfere with what all we have planned for you on this magical night."

He smiled and let the applause die down before he continued. "Now, we are going to be having the judges mix and mingle and judge the categories they are assigned. Please dance, eat, drink, and be merry and may the best costumes win."

Spike nodded as he watched the man leave the little impromptu stage. "I guess that’s our clue to move about and tally our votes."

"Just when it comes time to stand up next to Captain Magnifico Uno, don't push him off the stage," Wesley offered his advice on what not to do to Angel when it came time for them to present the award for their category.

"Would never even consider it," Spike smiled as he said this. "Means I would have to touch him in some manner, and touching is unacceptable. Nowhere to wash my hands."

"Right, there is that," Wesley laughed. "Well have fun and see you later then."

"Yep," Spike replied as he walked over to where Anya was holding his ballots.

*******

"Sorry little ladies, but you can't move from this spot," Clyde bellowed as he again made black jack. "You are my lucky ladies."

Jenny smiled as she noticed Willow's blush and the confused look on Buffy's face. "We’re his luck, or so he thinks," she explained.

"Luck? Us?" Buffy asked.

"You betcha my little daffodil, luck is the ladies tonight," he winked at the pretty little blonde number in the sexy blue dress. "Alrighty then, Carlos, hit me."

Buffy had a hard time holding back her laughter at the man. She looked over and noticed Jenny looking away trying to also keep from laughing. Willow's eyes were wide and biting her bottom lip. Buffy knew she was doing that so she wouldn't laugh.

"Now my little amigo, let's see what we have here," Clyde challenged as he turned up his bottom card to show he had jacket of hearts that with a ten of spades gave him twenty. "Let's see the house beat that, Partner."

Carlos gave the man a wide grin as he turned over the ace of diamonds paired with the eight of clubs gave him eighteen. "It would seem, Mr. Tanner, I will have to take a hit and see if the luck is with the house," the dealer said as he turned up a six of spades off the desk.

The crowd clapped at the man's winning, since this made the seventh hand in a row that the tall Texan had won since the three lady's appeared at his table. "Well, like I said, the little ladies are luck, pure and simple.

Jenny had shown the girls around the casino and explained the premise of each game. Finally she had wanted to set at a table and play a few hands of Black Jack when they came upon Clyde Tanner's table.

"I hope you ladies don't have anywhere you have to be at the moment?" Clyde asked, thinking he'd like to see about winning a few favors from the blonde little filly.

"I’m afraid they do," a male voice answered before either woman could.

Buffy was startled when an arm appeared around her waist and pulled her against a solid body. She turned her head at the same time Spike leaned in to kiss her cheek.

"Hello, luv," Spike greeted her as he looked up at the gambler he had noticed ogling his girl.

"Hi, yourself," she replied as she leaned into his body, silently thanking whoever was responsible for bringing him to her rescue.

"I'm surprised not to find you playing my dear," Rupert said to his wife as he laid claim by following Spike's example and wrapping his arms around his wife.

"Was having too much fun showing the ladies here around the tables." Jenny tilted her head back and smiled up at her husband. "Plus, Buffy was making killing on the nickel machine."

"You were, Pet," Spike chuckled.

"Yep," Buffy laughed. "I won a whole twenty dollars."

"So lunch is on you tomorrow then?" Spike asked as he let his chin rest on her shoulder.

"You bet," Buffy answered turning her head so she could look at William's face. "You can order anything you want off the menu."

Clyde cleared his throat hiding his disappointment seeing that his little daffodil was taken. He figured he try his luck with his little Rose then. "Well, little Rose, it looks like it's just you and me."

"I'm sorry, but I’m afraid that won’t be possible," Wesley answered for Willow as he joined the little group, walking over and taking her hand in his. "She’s with me," he informed the Texan, noticing the soft flush that settled on Willow's face. The smile she gave him told him he had done the right thing in letting the other man know she was already spoken for.

"Well, maybe the powers that be are tellin' me its time to quit while I’m ahead," Clyde drawled as he turned his attention back to the dealer. "Look's like it's time to mosey on."

"It has been a pleasure watching you play Clyde," Jenny said as she waved goodbye.

"No darlin' the pleasure was all mine," Clyde chuckled as he winked at his little black-eyed susan. "You boys had better take care of these thoroughbreds, cause if not, I'm just the man to show you how it's done."

Clyde tipped his hat as he gathered his winnings from the table. He flicked a fifty-dollar chip toward Carlos. "You’re a good man, Carlos."

"I hope you have a great time while cruising with us sir," Carlos said as he bowed his head. "If there is anything we can do to make your time with us more pleasant, feel free to ask."

"Will do, son, will do," Clyde smiled, as he turned to his three fillies. "Ladies, don't spend it all in one place," he told them as he flicked them a one hundred dollar chip each. "It spoils the luck if you give it back."

"Thank you, Clyde, from all of us," Jenny said. She would explain to both Willow and Buffy that it would be rude to try and give the money back. "I'm sure we’ll be seeing you around."

"Maybe next time you can sit next to me and I can see how well you play the game," Clyde winked at her and then tipped his hat. "Have a good night."

"So, did you ladies have a good time while we slaved away?" Spike asked, pulling his girl closer enjoying the feel of her in his arms.

"Yes we did," Jenny answered, enjoying how happy Spike and Buffy seemed. "But now I think we could have a better time."

"Oh, the pressure, dear," Giles chuckled.

"I want to go to the midnight buffet," Jenny gave her husband her wifely pout, for which he leaned down to kiss away.

"I think we’ll be going to the buffet," Spike said, sending a wink over to Wesley.

"Good, I could use a snack," Buffy smiled, thinking she would be very bad and have a piece of that devil's food cake she had skipped at dinner.

"I can think of a nice little snack," Spike purred as he looked at his Buffy's lips. "Sweet as berries and as intoxicating as wine," he whispered as he kissed her lips.

Buffy's heart fluttered at his lovely words and his kiss. She knew at that precise moment she was in love with this man. She prayed he had not lied, and this was not a shipboard romance for him and nothing more. If it were she would be devastated that she had read his intentions toward her wrong.

Willow was surprised to see Buffy letting him kiss her like that. And that she was in fact kissing him back. She realized then just how seriously her best friend was falling for Spike Crawford. Willow wore her worry on her face as Wesley squeezed her hand.

"He is falling as fast and as deep as she is, trust me," Wesley said, so only she could hear, causing the redhead to give him a heartwarming smile in return.

Wesley cleared his throat to get the other's attention. "So, shall we, as Clyde said earlier, mosey on down to the buffet?" he asked, using his best rendition of a southern accent he could come up with.

"Not bad mate, needs a little work, but doable," Spike informed his best friend, having took the hint and gently broke off the kiss.

Buffy felt like she was on top of the world as Spike slowly pulled away from her only to take her hand in his. She felt as if she lost a part of herself with his body no longer touching her so intimately.

Jenny and Giles smiled at each other, both noticing the touching moments between the two other couples. "They fit," she whispered to her husband.

"I must say, my love, I agree," he agreed softly, so he would not be overheard.

"I’m starving," Jenny suddenly announced. "I say chocolate cake here we come."

"I second that motion," Buffy replied.

"All in favor say aye," Wesley added, and they all laughed when everyone said, "Aye."

*******

Buffy smiled as she dressed for their little excursion into Montego Bay. She dressed with care as she pulled out her denim walking skirt that came just above her knees. She then pulled out her sleeveless paisley print shirt that had a nice array of blues and greens mixed.

"Willow, do you think I'm moving to fast with William?" She turned to her best friend and asked. She had noticed the concerned look in the redhead's eyes when they had returned to their room last night.

"I don't know, Buffy, what do you think?" Willow replied as she pulled on her light brown clam diggers.

"I've fallen and I mean fallen hard." Buffy sighed as she sat at the side of her bed, her hazel eyes wide with fear. "God! Willow what if this is just a ‘have a good time week’ for him and I don't see him again?"

Willow remembered what Wesley had told her last night. "I don't think so Buffy. I mean, I think he really does care about you."

Buffy visibly relaxed at her friend's words. "I think I know that deep down here," she said as she placed her hand over her heart. "But up here is a whole other story," Buffy sighed as she tapped the side of her head with her left index finger.

Willow pulled on her beige tee shirt as she tried to reassure her best friend. "Take it one day at a time. Take the time and get to know each other and be yourselves."

Buffy's smile returned as she nodded her head, agreeing with everything Willow was saying. "You’re right, I'm just being to analytical and should just go with the flow and see how things work out."

"Yep, go with the flow," Willow said as she took an extra look to make sure she was looking her best.

"Is that how you intend for you and Wesley too?" Buffy snuck in the question, noticing how Willow was paying extra attention concerning her appearance.

Willow eyes grew large as they met Buffy's in the mirror. "What, me and Wesley? I don't think so."

"Oh! I think so, very much, missy," Buffy giggled. "Even I noticed the little sparkage between you two."

"Honestly, I don't know what you are talking about," Willow said, trying to play her treatment of Wesley as if it was nothing special. She didn't think the man would even consider her special enough to want to spend all his free time with her on this cruise.

"I beg to differ, he looks very interested in you," Buffy said as she held up her left hand. "I swear, cross my heart and hope to die," she continued as she then used her left hand to trace the sign of the cross over where her heart was located.

Willow giggled. "You really think he’s interested in me?"

"Very interested, I would say a ten on the ‘one out of ten interested scale’," Buffy encouraged her friend.

"Well, I’ll have to wait and see, and take on step at a time," Willow said, deciding she would take her own advice, just like she had told Buffy.

"So are you ready to see the Rose Hall Great House and Town Drive?" Buffy asked, knowing Willow was looking forward to seeing the former home of Annie Palmer, the white witch of Rose Hall.

Willow's excitement was hard to contain as she nodded her head. "I can't believe that all three of her husbands died similar deaths, John Palmer being the first one. It's believed all three are buried under the tall palm trees near the beach opposite the Great House."

"Hmmm, gives me chills hearing this," Buffy shuddered.

"Yeah, I know what you mean. They say that no storm has blown the trees away. Also, that she and one of slave girls fell in love with the estate supervisor and used Voodoo against each other," Willow continued. "It says she was killed in a slave uprising and the fields were set on fire, and since then, no one has ever lived in the house again."

"Talk about scary movie time," Buffy said, as she grabbed her bag with swimwear and other things she might need. "Let's make sure to grab a couple of bottles of water."

"Good idea," Willow agreed as she grabbed her bag and followed Buffy out the door so they could meet Jenny and the girls for breakfast.

*******

Wesley watched as Spike slicked back his bleached blonde locks. "You lucky ponce, getting to go to Greenwood Great House."

Spike smirked, his eyes meeting Wes's in the mirror. "What can I say, luck of the draw there, mate."

"I guess if anyone were to visit the house that once belonged to the Barretts of Wimpole Street London it should be you," Wesley conceded, knowing Spike was a fan of Elizabeth Barrett-Browning's work.

"I promise to take plenty of pictures and tell you all about it," Spike said as he continued to get ready. "Plus you’ll get to see the girls, unlike me. My luck, I'll get stuck with that trollop again."

"I do pray that you are not," Wesley honestly told his friend. "Maybe she’ll be assigned to haunt Angel, or better yet- tour the island all on her own."

"And gets lost or swims into the ocean and is eaten by a great white," Spike suggested, jokingly.

"Lost would be good, but would you really wish to inflict that kind of misery on a killer shark?" Wesley dramatically sighed. "I would feel sorry for the man eating predator."

"I had someone make reservations at Pier one for lunch at 1:30, figured we have time to pick up the ladies after the tours and go," Spike told Wesley as he noticed the other man showing more interest than usual in his attire. "You got it bad, don’t you?"

Wesley looked up from making sure he liked what he was wearing. He had on beige walking shorts and a loose fitting white polo shirt on. "Excuse me?" he asked, looking at Spike, waiting for his answer.

"Red, you have it bad for Red." Spike said, knowing it was true.

"You sir are the one who has it bad," Wesley said with a slight defensive undertone to his voice.

"Yeah, I guess you can say I do," Spike agreed, but not about to let his friend off the hook either. "Least I'm doing something about mine," he said giving his friend a challenging look.

"She is nice and I like being around her," Wesley tried to explain. "But I'm not sure she’s interested in me."

Spike chuckled as he patted Wesley on his back giving him a strange look. "Oh mate, she’s interested. Caught her checking you out while she thought no one was looking."

Wesley gave Spike a questionable look before asking. "Spike, please do not joke about this."

"Not joking, blind man. Hell even a blind man would know that the bird was interested in you," Spike said, before he turned to his friend with a serious look on his face. "I think you should ask her out on a real date take her out wine and dine her, or a show."

"Spike, I think I can handle my own love life," Wesley said, with some agitation in his voice that the blonde took the wrong way.

"Yeah, you’re right there. Who am I to go givin' a bloke any advice?" Spike sighed, as he turned and walked over to get his wallet and shove it in his back pocket of his brown khaki pants.

"Spike, that’s not what I meant," Wesley quickly tried to explain.

Spike looked back at his friend and said, "It's alright, Wes."

Wesley walked over and placed his hands on Spike's shoulders. "No, it's not alright for you to think I don’t hold your opinions and insightfulness in high regard. I just want to take my time and get to know her better without any pressure."

Spike smiled up at his friend. "I just want you to be happy, she's the first woman I've seen catch your eye since I've known you."

Wesley nodded his head. "Because she’s the first woman since Lilah to make me think that falling in love just might be possible again."

"Then don't let it slip you by. If I learned nothing else from all this bull, I learned don't let it pass you by," Spike said, giving his friend a beseeching look. "She could be the one for you, don't be a ponce and let this time go to waste."

"How about you and Buffy? Do you think she’s the one for you?" Wesley asked, seeing the answer in the way saying her name made Spike's eyes light up.

"No, don't think, I know, she's the one, Wes," Spike answered. "She’s the one I want to grow old with, wake up every morning with her beside me."

Wesley pulled him into a tight hug. "Then my friend, you fight tooth and nail for her and don't let her get away."

Spike returned the hug, feeling for the first time he did truly have family. "I promise, mate."

"Then I promise to take your advice and see if Miss Rosenberg would be interested in catching a show one night," Wesley promised.

Both men pulled away, feeling that their friendship had changed. They walked away, feeling they had truly formed a bond that would keep them as close as brothers for the rest of their lives.

*******

Jenny, Buffy, Willow, and the girls stood at the dock waiting for the others to join them. The tour of the Rose Hall Great House had gone very well. Willow for the most part had been in awe of the house and the story the tour guide told them.

"I wish we would have seen her ghost," Sara said, holding back a giggle as she watched her younger sister's eyes grow wide.

"No, no ghosts," Allyson said as she moved closer to her mother.

"Honey, it's okay." Jenny smiled down at her youngest before looking over and giving a motherly loving glare at her oldest. "If you get scared tonight honey you just crawl in bed with your sister."

"NO!" Both girls said at the same time.

"Yes!" Her mother told them, knowing Ally would most likely come and crawl in bed with her and Rupert.

"Come on Ally, don't tell me you're a chicken," Sara teased her sister.

"I'm not a chicken," Allyson denied as she glared at her sister.

"Enough, you two," Jenny gently scolded her daughters. "How about we talk about the house- was it not huge?"

"Very huge, and I would not want to own it for all the tea in China," Buffy said, trying not to smile at the two girls antics.

"Why not? I think it would be fun having all that room," Sara replied.

"Too many rooms to clean," Willow agreed with Buffy.

"That's why you have house servants to do it all for you," Allyson answered, wondering why Buffy and Willow didn't know that.

"That's okay, I would be happy with a three bedroom colonial that I can clean myself," Buffy said as she cringed at the thought of other people in her house that didn't really need to be there.

"Well, well, look at what we have here," Spike said as he, Wesley, and Giles joined the women of their little group. "Did we have a good time?"

"Great," Sara answered

"Me too," Allyson agreed with her sister.

"And what about you, Pet, did you have a good time?" Spike asked Buffy as he came to a stop just a few inches from her.

Buffy tilted her head back slightly so she could meet his gaze. "Had a wonderful time.
The scenery there was fantastic."

"Have to agree, the scenery here is beautiful," Spike said as he continued to stare at her, making her think he was talking about her and not the island.

"Well, I think we should be going if we plan on making our reservations," Giles hated to interrupt, but his stomach was telling him it was way past time to eat something. He had skipped breakfast deciding he'd rather sleep a tad longer.

"Yes, we must feed my man before he fades into nothing," Jenny teased him after hearing his stomach growl.

Everyone paired off, with the girls walking behind the three couples. Sara watched as Spike took Buffy's hand and twined their fingers together. She looked over at her sister and noticed her smiling.

"What are you smiling about?" Sara whispered.

"Spike and Buffy sitting in a tree, "Ally sang softly as she continued to watch the blonde couple as they walked holding hands and occasionally nudging their bodies together.

"Yeah, I really like her," Sara told her sister.

"Me too!" Allyson agreed, causing both girls to giggle and give each other a high five.

Wesley looked over and noticed the soft smile on Willow's face as she watched Spike and Buffy interact. "They make a striking couple don't they?" he asked.

Willow turned around and smiled at him, making his heart feel like it skipped a beat. "That they do."

"I meant it when I said he’s serious about her," Wesley reassured her.

"Good, cause she is really serious about him," Willow replied.

"Willow, may I ask you something? And please feel free to say no," Wesley started, deciding to take Spike's advice.

"Sure, you can ask me anything," she reassured him, wondering what in the world he would ask her for.

"I was wondering if we could spend some time together, tonight after dinner, maybe? Possibly catch a show?" he asked, trying to keep the anxiety he was feeling right now out of his voice.

Willow was at a loss for words. All she could do was repeat over and over in her head, ‘he's asking me out on a date. I think he is asking me on a date.’

"I mean if you have other plans I truly understand," Wesley started to ramble.

Before Willow could even think about her answer to his question, she asked, "Are you asking me out on a date or just wanting someone to hang out with?"

Wesley bowed his head and wondered which of the two he should tell her. It took him a few minutes before deciding to just tell her the truth. "I'm asking you out on a date, of sorts. Most of the time dating involves sharing dinner, but with my time committed to the con, that would not be possible."

"Yes, I would love to go out with you. As for a meal- we’re about to have lunch together. Would that count?" Willow asked.

"Yea, I do believe lunch would count," Wesley said as he reached over and took her hand in his. "So, Miss Rosenberg, consider yourself on a date."

"Well, Mr. Pryce, I don't mind if I do," she replied, as she let her hand meld with his.

"Look at Uncle Wes and Willow," Allyson said as she prodded her sister's left side with her elbow. "They’re holding hands now, too!"

"Cool, looks like mom did the right thing following Willow into the bathroom," Sara said as she looked at her parents walking with their arms around each other's waist. "You know, we’re lucky we have the parents that we do."

Allyson nodded her head agreeing with her sister, yet again. "Sara, do you think that Uncle Spike and Uncle Wes will still spend time with us?"

Sara noticed her sisters fear and realized her sister was afraid their Uncles would forget about them. "Hey, I think if anything we just out numbered them is all. Me, you, Buffy, and Willow makes four girls to their two men."

Allyson relaxed as she realized what her sister was telling her. That Willow and Buffy would not keep their uncles from them, but become a part of the group, a part of the family. "Can you see us calling them Aunt Buffy and Aunt Willow?"

Sara nudged her sister as she replied, "Yeah, actually I can."

"The girls are being rather quiet, it's scary," Giles told his wife as they enjoyed walking together.

"I think they’re wondering where they are going to fit in with Spike and Wesley at the moment," she informed her husband.

"Do you think it will be a problem?" He asked his insightful wife.

"No, I think they’ll find it nice to have Buffy and Willow along," she reassured her husband. "They like the both of them, and Willow and Buffy enjoy being around the girls. I believe it's a win-win situation."

"Good, I was worried I would have two jealous young ladies on my hands to deal with," Giles said as he pulled his lovely lady closer. "Have I told you lately that I love you, very much?"

"Hmmm, it has been awhile," Jenny pretended to think it over. "I mean usually you’ve said it three times by now, and I only heard it once this morning."

"How terrible of me," Giles said as he shook his head, "I love you more everyday."

"I knew I made the right choice when I chose to marry you and not Joseph," Jenny said as she leaned her head against her husband as they continued to walk toward Pier one.

*******

Angel felt a rush of anger as he noticed Spike and Buffy walking so intimately together. He would make both of them pay, him for trying to take over the show. She would pay for rejecting him, for he was ten times the man Spike Crawford could ever wish to be. When he was done with her, she would be on her knees begging him not to turn her away. Just like Dru and Harmony. He would have the bitch eating out of his hands

*******

Anya sat watching for her husband to join her. She had been assigned to with the group that had gone on the Montego Bay 4wd Cross Country Safari. She shared the time with Angel, but thanked God she didn't have to set in the same SUV as him.

She had been paired with a few of the fans that were fun and didn't ask a bunch of personal questions. They had treated her well, especially after finding out Xander was her husband.

"Hi, waiting for someone?" Cordy asked as she sat down next to the other woman.

"Yes, waiting for my husband, he went on the Coral See Explorer with a group of fans," Anya answered. "Tell me, what excursion did the ho bag go on? Please tell me it wasn't on the Coral See Explorer."

"No, she did not sign up for any of the adventures on this island," Cordy answered, giving the girl a questionable look, wondering if the woman trusted her husband.

"Hey, don't get me wrong. I trust my faithful husband, but tramps like her have a way of making things look like more than what it is. My Xander is an easy-going fella, and naïve at times." Anya said, having recognized the other woman's look.

"I can see that happening," Cordy sighed. "I wish we could just put her on a plane and fly her back to the mainland."

"I can see about getting contributions to do just that. I know I'd contribute, and a few others would, as well." Anya offered, thinking that was the best idea presented to her all day.

"I need to ask you a question," Cordy said, looking around to make sure no one would over hear her.

"Go ahead," Anya shrugged.

"Is Angel a prick or just a man that is in need of an attitude adjustment?" Cordy asked.

"Capital P, if you get my drift," Anya honestly told the woman. "Now let me ask you a question."

"Okay, shoot," Cordy replied, wondering what in the world this woman would ask her.

"Are you interested in Angel or are you looking to find dirt on him for a reason?" Anya bluntly asked.

"Finding the dirt and for a good reason," Cordy decided to spill the whole story, as she told Anya about a friend's certain interest in one of stars of the show. She explained how Angel made this person believe the certain star would be interested as well.

"Are we talking about Spike and your boss?" Anya asked. "I think we talked about this somewhat at the photo shoot."

"Yes, we did," Cordy answered. "And yes, we are. How did you know?"

Anya shrugged. "Saw how the man kept checking out Spike's ass, when he thought no one was looking."

"Oh! Hope it was just you and Angel noticing boss man preoccupation with a certain person's body part," Cordy rambled a bit.

"Bastard, figured Angel for a lowlife, but now I see he is just demon fodder," Anya said, feeling the heat of her anger start to boil over. "God, I really have to talk to Spike about this, at first I wasn't but now I know he needs to be told what Angel is doing."

"I hope you can keep Lorne's name out of this," Cordy asked, knowing her boss would be more than just embarrassed if this got out.

"Lips are sealed, don't you worry," Anya promised.

"Good, if you need anything let me know," Cordy offered as she stood up wanting to go find Lindsey and see how his day went.

"Hi, honey. Something bothering you, baby?" Xander asked as he noticed his wife's angry expression. Wondering to himself what the other woman had said to piss her off so much.

Anya's facial expression softened when she looked into her husband's face. "I'm better now that you're here. But we do have to talk."

"Okay, so let's talk while we go looking for something Jamaican to sample and get our metabolism in an uproar," Xander offered, knowing she wouldn't rest until she told him everything, and by her expression it was not of the good, what she had to talk to him about.

Anya stood up and lovingly kissed her husband's lips, "You are the best husband a girl like me could have. Just thought I would tell you that."

"And you are the best wife a guy like me could have, so look, we're even," he laughed as he took her arm in his and started leading her away from the ship.

As they walked Anya started telling her husband what Cordy had told her. She then went on to tell him how she thought Angel had done something to hurt Spike the other night. By the time she was finish, Xander expression had turned to one of concern.

"Baby, I think you’re right. I think we need to talk to Spike tonight after dinner," Xander suggested.

"Good, I had hoped you would agree," she said as she smiled lovingly at her man.

"Had hoped I would have agreed?" he asked wondering if she would have still went to Spike even if he had told her not too.

"Spike is our friend, so yes, I would have told him. It's just easier if you are with me when I do," Anya explained.

Xander leaned down and kissed her lips softly. "That is what I love about you. Your ability to just say what you mean and defend your friends no matter the consequences."

"Good, now let's go and sample the Island cuisine," Anya replied as they continued walking toward town.

*******

Spike smiled as he watched Buffy try to figure out her next move. They had decided to sit by the pool, in the shade, and play a few board games after returning to the ship. He had a few hours before having to get ready for another cocktail party.

"Anytime before we return to the States, Pet," Spike teased her.

"Hey, I didn't pressure you, Mister," she replied, as she gave him a playful glare.

"Sure, no pressure," Spike snorted as he rolled his eyes. "You proddin' me on by nudging me under the table with your pretty little foot. You don't call that pressure."

Buffy tried to cover by saying, "I can't help it I swing my foot sometimes when I'm nervous."

"More like impatient, to me," Spike replied as he cocked up his left eyebrow. "Since, you only seem nervous when it's my turn, that is."

Buffy gave him a winning smile as her foot reached across under the table and slowly ran it up his leg. She noticed how his breathing increased slightly.

"What does the winner get again?" she asked, as she continued to rub his leg up and down.

"He or she gets to choose their prize," he said after clearing his voice, wishing her foot would travel just a little higher and just a tad more toward somewhere more personal.

"I already know what I want from you," she said, giving him a dazzling smile in the process that went straight to his groin.

"Care to tell me? Could be initiative to lose this game," Spike said, hoping she would tell him.

"You would be my personal cabana boy for the rest of the week," she said, as she finally made her move that took two of his checkers.

"What would I have to do?" he asked, as his imagination took hold.

He could envision her in the bed as he rubbed lotion all over her naked little body. No place would be safe from his hands…and other body parts. He could see her now, begging him to take her.

"Oh, fetch me water, and towels. Keep me bathed in sun block and time me for when its time to turn over. I need an even tan you know," Buffy said trying not to laugh at his crestfallen face.

"I hear that cabana boys are used for their sexual prowess," Spike suggested. "I mean, remember I can't be out and about in a lot of sun. Vampire actor, remember?" He pretended to pout.

"Oh, but you see- I can't disappoint my lover-to-be and give my virginity to the cabana boy," Buffy gasped. "It just wouldn't be right."

Spike chuckled. "But could be, the cabana boy would know more tricks to make it really good that your lover might not know about."

"But I already told him I hadn't had sex with anyone. Wouldn't he know I wasn't a virgin anymore?" Buffy tried not to blush. She could not believe she was flirting with him like this.

"The cabana boy would have to let you talk to a couple of the cabana girls, so they could tell you a few tricks of the trade on how to fake being a virgin," Spike offered.

"Hmmm, enough about me," she decided it was time to change the subject. "What would you want if you win?" she asked, knowing it would still be something along the line they had been talking about.

"Kissing, lots and lots of kissing," Spike answered.

"Only kissing?" Buffy asked, feeling like he was being too vague.

"Only kissing," he replied, with a 'cat ate the canary,' kind of smile on his face.

"There's a catch here somewhere, I just know it," Buffy surmised as she watched him closely. "Where would you kiss me?"

"Everywhere," he answered, making her work for the answer. "Not the innocent little peck on the cheek, but something more."

"'Everywhere on my body? Where would we be kissing?” Buffy continued to interrogate him.

"Body. As for where we will be as I'm kissing you, that would be somewhere very private and intimate. No one will ever see the places I plan to kiss you," his voice raspy, wishing she would let him take her there now.

"But what if I'm not ready to go that far?" she asked, giving him a hint she was still nervous with the intimacy part.

"Then I would ask for a rain check for when you are ready for it," he said as he easily defeated her with his next move. "So, tell me love, rain check for now, or do we play double or nothing?"

"What's the double?" she asked, feeling conflicted with her decision.

"Well, if I win the second game, I get unlimited long passionate public kisses until you’re ready to have me kiss every inch of your body as previously stated."

"Double or nothing," she decided, having no clue when she had become so flirty. She had not acted like this since college, before the incident with Parker. Realizing, as well, that he was not talking about the soft public kiss to her cheek, and the sweet kiss to her lips, like last night.

"Great, Luv, Do you wish to stay black or would you like the red for this one?" Spike asked, knowing he was going to take advantage of her losing. By the time he was done, she would have no problems with kissing him in public, might even initiate a few of her own.

*******

Yolanda nodded her head as they noticed Spike with the pretty little blonde woman as Beatrice voiced her opinion, "She is perfect for him, just perfect. So much better then that fake little bimbo Harmony."

"Yes, I agree as well," Colin Masters said, as he handed the ladies their drinks giving his wife a wink.

"Darla, your husband is a wonderful man to put up with the two of us," Yolanda complimented the pretty actress who had spent the day with them.

"I am very lucky indeed, he chose me," Darla said as she smiled at her husband.

Darla and the ladies at the table had toured together and bonded. She, in turn, introduced them to her husband who had offered to buy them a round of drinks on the ship for being so nice to his wife.

He had told Darla how much he had missed her, understanding it would be rude to leave the two women when they were enjoying this special time with her.

"No, ladies I'm the lucky one. You see, I didn't appreciate what I had until I almost let it go," he explained, hoping she would understand she was stuck with him for the rest of her life. "Then she came back into my life, and I'm much richer for it."

"Oh, you are the sweetest man," Beatrice sighed. "Now, off with you two. You've both spent enough time with us."

"But you are wonderful company, and I have the rest of my life with this woman," Colin reassured the two women. "We are here because we are enjoying the company. Isn't that right my love?"

Darla understood his message loud and clear. "Yes. Believe me we are here because we want to be." She knew he was telling her he would never leave her.

Colin Masters had a plan, and it included making one Angel O'Connor pay for mistreating his wife. He was sure that he would have Spike's cooperation as well. He agreed with the two women as well, the young man looked very happy indeed with Buffy. Darla pointed her out earlier, after telling him how the young woman and Spike seemed to hit it off.

*******

"They are such nice girls," Willow said as she watched the two sisters play ping-pong.

"Yes, they are," Wesley, agreed as he continued to sneak a glance at the redhead when he thought she wasn't looking.

"How long have you known them?" Willow asked, as she turned to look at him.

"For about six years," Wes answered. "I worked with Giles in London before taking this job."

"How about Spike?" she asked.

"Spike I have known for going on eight years," Wesley replied. "We started out in the same classes and became fast friends. Even if we had different jobs, we stayed in touch."

"Then the two of you are very close," Willow said.

"Yes, I would say he is family," Wesley said, surprised he was comfortable telling her so much about himself.

"I feel the same way about Buffy," Willow agreed. "She’s the sister my parents failed to give me."

Wesley chuckled. "Do you have a brother?"

"Nope, they didn't give me one of those either," Willow giggled, as she continued to ask him questions without feeling uncomfortable. "Do you have brothers or sisters?"

Wesley's expression changed with that question, becoming unreadable, and not missed by the young woman beside him. "I'm sorry, am I getting too personal?"

Wesley quickly turned to reassure her, "No, you are not. Just brings up feelings I thought I had resolved long ago."

"Do you want to talk about them?" she asked, as her hand reached out and covered his gently.

"Maybe some other time, if that's okay with you," Wesley replied as he turned his hand so he could hold hers in his. "I do not wish to bore you with my family dynamics." It still hurt that his brothers had shunned him, and his mother only called on his birthday and some holidays.

"It wouldn't be a bother, and nothing you could tell me would be boring," Willow said as she squeezed his hand.

"We will leave it for another day then," Wesley suggested, hoping she would understand he didn't want the black cloud of his family's treatment of him to be the topic of discussion right now.

‘Okay, means we will be talking again in the future,’ Willow couldn't help think to herself when he said that.

"Hey, you guys want play Uno with us?" Ally asked as she approached the couple.

"I'm game, if he's game." Willow couldn’t help but notice the worry on the youngest Giles' face.

"I am the champion on the Uno circuit," Wesley replied, having noticed the expression on Allyson's face as well. "Be prepared to lose."

"We’ll see about that," Sara challenged as she held up the box of Uno cards. "I seem to remember a time or two you lost."

"Never," Wesley said, acting insulted, making the two girl's laugh. "I will prove to you fair maidens that I, Wesley Pryce, am and always will be champion of the game of Uno."

"Okay, champ, let's see what you've got," Willow said as she gave him her best 'I'm tougher then you' facial expression.

"Cool," Allyson said as she pulled out a chair.

"Okay, are we playing by the game rules or do you make up your own?" Willow asked, as Sara pulled out the cards and started to deal.

"All in favor of standard game rules say aye."

Wesley smiled wickedly; enjoying the fact he was going have this time with Willow and the girls.

"Aye!" Everyone said as the game began.

*******

Spike cocked his head to the side as he used the index finger of his right hand to call her over toward him. "Come here, Luv, a bet is a bet."

Buffy wondered if he would indeed kiss her right here in the open for everyone to see. She had noticed the looks she was getting from several young women, and not all of them were nice. But, he was right, a bet was a bet, and she had lost fair and square.

"I promise not to bite," he offered, as he watched her looking uncomfortable.

She walked over to stand before him, wondering if she'd be able to kiss him in such a public place, with his fans looking on. Her tummy felt like it was about to be carried away from the butterflies she swore had somehow found their way inside her stomach.

Spike leaned down and grazed his lips softly on her forehead. "Why are you so anxious, Pet?" he asked in concern.

"I don't think your young fan's like me," she replied, feeling weird to be saying it.

"Don't let them bother you, Buffy," Spike encouraged. "Please don't let my job interfere in us trying to be like any normal couple."

"But, would we be like any normal couple?" she asked.

"I would like to try and be as close to normal as the world will allow us," Spike told her.

Buffy thought about it and realized he was right. They couldn't let it keep them from being themselves whenever they were together. "Don't let this go to your head, but you're right."

"I promise I won't," he reassured her as he leaned down and kissed her lips, lingering for a few seconds.

"I could get used to this," Buffy said as she smiled at him.

"Care to go for a late night swim with me later tonight?" Spike asked. "Since I have to limit my time in the sun, the captain said that the Poof and I can have special privileges with the pool by the gym."

"Sure, we can moonbathe," Buffy replied, already anticipating their time together.

Spike leaned his forehead against hers. "Wear the hunter green," he whispered.

"How do you know about that suit?" Buffy asked, wondering if he had been at the hotel pool that night.

"You have been on my mind since I first saw you at the pool that night. I feel like this is fate, us meeting like this," Spike explained.

"Then why didn't I see you?" she asked.

"Maybe because I had to be made to believe this is real more than you," Spike offered, realizing his first initial response to her had been rather intense.

Buffy started to laugh. "You mean you just noticed the half naked woman in a bikini and started having a fantasy moment."

Spike smiled as he placed his hands on both sides of her face. "I wish to think you touched me so deeply it rattled my brain. It sparked a conversation with Wes that made me view it very differently."

"In what way?" Buffy asked, very curious on where he was going with this.

"All I can say is- I had never felt the intense need to have someone the way I felt when I first saw you," Spike decided to be honest. "I wanted to possess you, own you, make you mine."

"And now?" she asked, as she moved closer, not caring where they were or who was watching.

"I still want it all, but I also want the same from you," he explained as he leaned down to rub his nose against hers, wrapping his arms around her body pulling her against him. "No one has ever made me feel like this, no one."

Buffy responded by placing her arms around his neck, leaning back to gaze up into his intense eyes. "I cannot tell a lie, no one has ever made me feel like this before either. I've fallen for you William and I think I've fallen hard and deep."

"Me too, Pet," Spike reassured her. "I feel sorry for my car, with all the miles I’ll be putting on it, making frequent trips to Sunnydale."

"I can come to L.A. as well," she offered.

"We’ll work it out," Spike promised, knowing it would be difficult when taping started, but he would make it work.

"Excuse me, I hate to interrupt," Colin said, feeling bad since he was happy for the young man, but needed to discuss a few things with him before tonight.

"Colin, old chap, nice to see you decided to join that pretty wife of yours,” Spike greeted the man as he reached out his hand, keeping the other arm around Buffy's waist.

"Yes, I knew, if I didn't, she would be making arrangements to leave me for you, no doubt," he teased. "Hello, you must be Buffy."

Buffy looked suspicious wondering how this man would know who she was. "Yes, and you are?"

"How rude of me. I'm Colin Masters, Darla's husband," he introduced himself. "She has told me everything and I was wondering if I could borrow your young man for a moment?"

Buffy gave William a concerned look before nodding her head. "Just don't do anything that will get you in trouble, okay?"

"I promise. I have too much to lose," Spike told her before kissing her cheek. "I’ll come by your room before the party."

"Okay," she replied as she stretched up and kissed him briefly on the lips. "I don't need a bet to kiss you in public." She teased him before quickly walking away.

"She is a beauty, that one," Colin said, smiling at he look on Spike's face. "Glad your taste in women is improving."

Spike turned and gave the man a warning glare. "Touchy subject, so don't go there."

"Consider it done," Colin acknowledged. "I'm going after Angel I just thought I would let you know. When I'm done with him he will be nothing more then a distant memory, if that much."

"Thanks for the warning, mate, but why tell me?" Spike asked, his mind going a mile a minute, trying to figure what Masters would need him for.

"Just want you to be my eyes and ears and let me know anything that might help me take him down is all," Colin clarified. "No one will know, but I'm sure you have a score or two to settle with him as well."

"I do at that, but I decided to let fate handle it," Spike explained. "My plans have a way of blowing up in my face."

"Then sit back, watch and enjoy," Colin said, with an evil smile on his face. "No one messes with my wife and gets away with it. Just let me know if you hear anything that might help me out."

"I can do that," Spike said, knowing Masters would watch his back.

"Now, go and be with your girl," Colin told him, his gut telling him there was going to be wedding bells in Spike's future.

"Just be careful, he fights dirty," Spike warned.

"Don't worry, I fight better in the mud," Colin answered, knowing no one knew just how dirty he could fight. "And sometimes I like to get dirty."

Spike nodded. "If I hear anything I’ll let you know," he said before he walked quickly to join Buffy in her room, since he had time before he had to get ready. He knew that Angel had underestimated Masters, and was soon to pay the price. Colin gave him the best advice, to sit back and watch. He knew fate had arrived, and it came under the name of Colin Masters.

*******

Willow was laughing so hard she had tears falling down her cheeks. The story Sara was telling about Wesley's experience at seeing one of the cows giving birth was hilarious.

Sara had went on to tell her how Wes had turned white and kept muttering to the poor cow that she should stop this nonsense and wait for the proper people who could help her.

"I really don't see what is so funny about my being so concerned for the poor mother cow," Wesley said, trying to get order back into the conversation. "Honestly, I think Spike's adventure with something has to be more entertaining."

"No, Uncle Wes, your fainting at the time she pushed the calf out can't be topped," Ally teased her Uncle, which earned her a scowl. "Sorry, but it's true. Dad even said so."

Wesley knew what she was saying was true. "Can we please move on to something as interesting, just not about me?"

"But what fun would that be?" Sara asked between snorting. "I guess we could ask Willow if she has any embarrassing moments to share?"

"Oh, Goddess, do I ever, but they will go with me to my grave," Willow answered as she wiped the tears from her face as she worked at getting her laugher under control.

"You are simply evil," Wesley teased her. "Evil, I tell you."

"Nope, just never leave a witness alive," she leaned back and gave them each a mocking glare.

"Uncle Wes, I think she is telling us fibs," Ally giggled. "I don't think she ever did anything to be embarrassed about."

"Hmm, could be you have a point young grasshopper," Wesley said, in his attempt using a Chinese accent. "Could be she tells us untruths."

Willow snickered. "For me to know and you not to find out."

"We do have one way to find out before this trip is over," Sara suggested, as she waved her partner's in crime closer to whisper, "We can ask Buffy."

"I know now why you are the brains of this group, young one," Wesley chuckled as he gave Willow a mischievous look. "We do have that ace in the hole."

Both girls giggled as they agreed with their uncle. Willow knew she would have to talk to Buffy, and try and persuade her not to tell any embarrassing stories. She knew it would be like talking to the wall.

"I really do hate to cut this short, but I must get ready for the cocktail party before dinner," Wesley apologized.

"I understand, after all, it is a working vacation for you," Willow told him, wishing he didn't have to leave.

"I really had a lovely time today," Wesley said, hoping they would have more time to spend together the rest of the week.

"Me too," Willow agreed. "Maybe we can catch a show after dinner?"

Wesley's smile lit up his face as he replied, "I would enjoy that very much."

"Great, how about we meet by the pool after dinner?" Willow suggested.

"Marvelous, I will meet you there," Wesley told her as he stood to leave. "See you tonight."

Willow nodded her head and watched him leave the game room. She knew now how Buffy felt. She felt the attraction and wondered if he did as well or was he just looking for a vacation romance?

"He really likes you," Sara said. "I mean really likes you."

"Yeah, I have never seen him smile like that," Ally added.

Willow blushed as she looked down at the table embarrassed. "I'm sure he has plenty of girlfriends."

"None he let us meet," Ally replied.

"So, I would say he has no girlfriend or he would have introduced her to us," Sara said to encourage her that he was interested in her.

"We had better get back to our room. Mom will want us to get ready since tonight we get to have dinner with Dad at his table."

"Oh, that will be nice," Willow said, feeling bad for the girls, since they had to share their father with the fans on this trip. "I bet this is hard for you?"

"No, he makes up for it and it is only this week," Ally said. "Next week he's taking us to Disneyland. So we will have him all to ourselves, and Mom too of course."

"That sounds wonderful, I've never been," Willow congratulated the girls.

"Maybe you can come and visit us there. You know, come and spend a day with us?" Sara asked, hoping she'd say yes.

"I would have to check and see, since I’ll be back to work and wouldn't be able to come down until the weekend," Willow answered.

"There will be an extra bedroom if me and Sara share a room," Allyson said to encourage her to come. "Maybe you can get Buffy to come too?"

"I can ask her, we should ask your mom if it will be okay."

"I'm sure she won't mind," Sara said, knowing her mother wouldn't mind at all.

"Let's get you back to your room and later we can ask her," Willow compromised, not sure they would still be at the park that Saturday.

"Okay, we can ask Mom when we get there," Allyson said, all excited.

*******

Spike knocked on the door hoping Buffy had come right back to her room. He wanted to reassure her that he was not going to be involved in anything against Angel, other than passing on any damaging information that might come his way to Colin Masters.

He had thought about the tape of Angel with Dru and Harmony. It could end up broadcasted like the ones starring Paris Hilton and a few others, whose private kinks made it to the Internet. This could possibly destroy either, if not both, of their futures in the entertainment industry. Then again it could be what launches their careers, you never knew in Hollywood.

Buffy opened the door hoping it was Spike. She kept telling herself if it didn't take long for him to come to her room, then nothing bad had been discussed and or planned. He was out of her site maybe fifteen minutes at the most.

"Hi," she greeted him with a soft smile.

He said nothing as he leaned in kissing her deeply. When she opened her mouth and let him in he felt like a new man. She tasted like apples and vanilla ice cream, just what she’d had for dessert at lunch.

Buffy could not resist him even if she wanted to, as she let him lead the way. She knew when she became uncomfortable he would stop. Believing in him, she moved closer wrapping her arms around his neck and losing herself in the kiss.

Spike concentrated solely on the kiss, keeping in mind he would not push for anything further. For her he would take it slow and let her pace how fast or how slow their relationship developed.

Wesley shared a look with Willow as they watched the blonde couple lock lips standing in the doorway. They smiled knowingly at each other, for they each knew without a doubt Spike and Buffy were, in their eyes, an official couple.

Wesley cleared his throat before saying, "You know, there are families with young impressionable children on board."

"Yeah, ever hear the expression get a room," Willow sighed as she tried to keep from laughing at how the couple jumped. "Well you have a room, and the doorway doesn't count."

"Funny, Red," Spike replied, as he kept Buffy securely in his arms. "Ever think of joining the comedy club?"

"No, can't say that I have," Willow said, as she glared at his calling her ‘Red.’ "And the name is Willow."

"Don't worry, Willow. When he gives you an annoying nickname, it means he likes you." Wesley explained.

"You got that right Percy, knew I could trust you to make your girl understand," Spike said, as he gave Buffy a wink.

Wesley stopped Willow's response to the, 'your girl,' comment with a finger to his lips and a slight shake of his head. He knew Spike was trying to get one, if not both of them, to respond to his little comment.

"I do believe we have somewhere to be Master Vampire," Wesley said in his best Percy impression.

"Unfortunately, Watcher you're right about that," Spike groaned, as he leaned his forehead against Buffy's and reassured her. "Tonight- you, me, the pool and I will tell you what Colin told me. It's nothing bad, I promise."

"I believe you," Buffy said as she gave him a reassuring smile. "Hunter green suit, just for you."

"Can't wait," he said wagging his eyebrows and giving her a wolfish smile.

"What do I get?" she asked.

"That will be a surprise," Spike answered as he gave her a quick kiss before letting her go. "Do you like strawberries and champagne?"

"Love strawberries, never had champagne before," she replied.

Spike just smiled as he turned to Wes. "Guess we should mosey off and make ourselves pretty for the people."

Wesley rolled his eyes as he turned to Willow. "After dinner, meet at the pool and we can see about catching the last show."

"Sounds great," Willow answered, feeling excited and scared at the same time.

"Then it's a date," Wesley told her right before he leaned down and kissed her cheek.

Both men then turned and walked toward the elevators and the women stood and watched them go. Neither Buffy nor Willow could enter their room until both men were out of their sights.

"God, Willow I don't know what to do?" Buffy sighed as she fell back onto the bed.

"About what?" She asked, concerned at the tone of her best friend's voice.

"I want him, I want him so bad it hurts," Buffy moaned. "Is that so wrong that after just a few days, I want to sleep with him?"

"I guess you should ask yourself why you want to," Willow offered as advice. "Is it because you really feel the connection and it's more like make love kind of sex, and not that he just makes you hot and want to just have sex? Or is it because you think if you don't, he’ll find someone who will and leave you?"

Buffy nodded her head as she replied. "It's all of the above. I mean, he's big star, has had many women, I'm sure, and is experienced. What if we do it and I don't measure up? Will he then just wash his hands of me and move on or will he try and work with me and teach me how to better satisfy him?" Buffy was surprised she was talking to Willow about this.

Willow gave her an understanding smile as she sat down next to her on the bed. "Buffy, I know what you’re going through. I went through the same thing with Oz, when I was deciding if it was the right time for us to, you know, do it."

"But now you’re not together," Buffy said, hoping Willow understood where she was coming from with that statement.

"Yes, but because we were high school sweethearts that grew up, is all. We found ourselves drifting apart, but staying together because we were comfortable with each other. I was ready to settle down, have a family. He is just getting started in his career and not ready for a wife and kids," Willow explained further. "You and Spike, well you aren't teenager's anymore. Plus, I think comparing me and Oz to you and him is like comparing apples and oranges."

"So you won't think me terrible if I sleep with William?" Buffy asked, blushing with her hands over her face.

"No, I wouldn't," Willow reassured her friend as she hugged her. "The best advice I can give you is to follow your heart."

They changed the subject as Buffy told her about meeting Colin Masters and her concerns about the man getting William in trouble. With Willow telling her not to worry about it until he tells her what the man had to say.

*******

"Baby, just be careful," Darla told her husband as he zipped up her party dress.

"Don't worry, my dear," Colin promised his wife. "No one will be hurt in this other than Angel, and not in a physical way."

"I don't trust him," Darla turned to her husband and felt the tears threaten to fall. "I can't stand the thought of you getting hurt because of me."

"Number one, it's not because of you, but because of him," he reassured her. "Don't you forget that. He is getting what he deserves, nothing more, and not even all of what he deserves at that."

"I know, baby. I just want you to be very careful, I don't trust him," Darla begged her husband.

"You just stay close to Giles and the others and let me handle Angel," Colin said as he pulled her close.

"I do trust you. Just don't want to lose you." Darla snuggled closer to her husband, feeling safe for the first time since all of this started.

"I was a fool to let you go once; I will not make that mistake again," Colin reassured her.

*******

Colin had noticed how aloof the petite, blonde-haired woman and her friend had treated him at dinner and was sure he knew why. He was sure that Miss Summers was concerned how Spike fit into his plans pertaining to Angel. Since he had sat at their table in Jenny's and her girls’ absence.

He hurried to catch up with her to explain she had nothing to worry her pretty little head about on the matter. "Excuse me, Miss Summers, might I have word with you please?"

"Do you want me to stay?" Willow whispered as they stopped at the same time.

"No, go on. I’ll meet you back at the room," Buffy replied, wanting to speak to Mr. Masters alone.

Buffy watched as Willow continued on taking a deep breath before turning to face the intimidating man. "Yes, especially if you are going to tell me that you are not going to involve William in your plans."

Colin liked this woman. She didn't pull any punches and was direct and to the point. Traits he respected. "That is what I wish to talk to you about."

"Then talk," she replied as she faced him with a determined look on her face and her arms across her chest.

"My plans do not include Spike doing anything more then passing along any information that would be useful. I do not plan on him having any involvement, other than that," Colin promised her. "Angel made the mistake of blackmailing my wife and for that he will pay, not in a physical way, but in a way that will make him think twice before doing such a thing again in the future."

"I understand Mr. Masters, I really do," Buffy told him as she further explained her worry to him. "I just don't want William put in a position that this could hurt him anymore than he already has been."

"And I want the same thing," he reassured her. "All I asked was for him to pass any information I could use in my quest to make Angel sorry for what he did to my wife, nothing more. And with Spike's nature he would only give me information that was true and would not hurt anyone else in the process. The man has a good heart and is good people."

Buffy relaxed, her instinct telling her this man could be trusted. "Then if I hear anything I will tell William and he can pass it on to you."

"Thank you Miss Summers," Colin thanked her.

"Buffy, please call me Buffy," she replied.

"Then Buffy you must call me Colin," he said, seeing what Crawford saw in the young woman. She might look fragile but it was an illusion.

"Colin, just be careful," Buffy said as she silently wished the man all the luck in the world.

"I will, and please make sure you do the same," Colin replied, feeling that Angel was not done with her either. "Do not find yourself alone with the man."

He noticed the how her face had paled, and his gut said he had already tried something. "Buffy, has Angel approached you in a threatening manner?" He asked.

"Not really, but he came on to me," she said, feeling bad that she was telling this man and not Spike about it.

"Have you told Spike about this?" Colin asked, knowing before she answered she was going to say no.

"I didn't want William to do something that would get himself in trouble," Buffy tried to explain.

"I think you should, just so it doesn’t come up from another source," Colin said, hoping she told Crawford about her incident with O'Connor. "If anytime you need to talk or if Angel makes any threats toward you or Spike, let me know immediately. I promise I will do everything in my power to resolve this without violence or bloodshed."

Buffy could see the man was telling her the truth. "I promise, I will."

"Good, now let me be a gentlemen and escort you to your room," Colin said as he offered her his arm. "Don't worry, you see, someone is watching my wife for me."

Buffy could see he was not going to take no for an answer. "Darla is one lucky woman to have a husband like you."

"Thank you for saying so, but the truth is I'm the lucky one," Colin said as she took his arm and they walked toward the elevator.

*******

Willow sat next to Wesley as they watched the performers on stage. The show tonight was a tribute to Broadway musicals. He had knocked on her door about five minutes after she returned from dinner, telling her how one of the fans had given him a portrait of him in his Watcher character; right down to the tweed jacket he wore most of the time. She had listened and made no comment when he had slipped her hand in his as they walked together toward the elevators.

Now they sat next to each other, his arm draped across the back of her chair. She had noticed the motherly smile from a few of the older women, and the semi-heated to envious stares from the younger ones.

"Are you enjoying the show?" he leaned in and whispered in her ear.

She turned with a smile on her face and nodded her head. The singers had very nice voices and their costumes were beautiful and fit with the songs.

Wesley grinned back, happy she was enjoying herself. It felt nice to just be with someone and just relax and be yourself. He had noticed some of the not-so-friendly looks, a few of the younger fans were sending her. He just prayed Willow did not notice them as well. In the meantime he returned his attention back to the show.

*******

Spike observed her as she untied her little robe. He watched with intense interest, as she let the cover up drop off her shoulders and glide down her arms. He was envious of said material, wishing it were his hands and not the multicolored material sliding down her arms.

All he could think about at dinner was seeing her in the sexy little swimsuit. Now his Goddess stood before him and all he wanted to do was kneel down and worship her. Just the thought of tasting her womanly body made him harden.

Spike felt more relaxed after Buffy had told him about the conversation with Masters. He'd have to thank the man for taking the time to reassure Buffy's fears concerning his involvement. He was not happy about hearing how Angel had tried to corner her.

Buffy could feel his eyes upon her. It gave her a sense of womanly power she never knew existed. She purposely removed her cover up slower than normal, knowing he was enjoying the show.

"Lovely little show, Pet," Spike said as he removed his shirt deciding two could play this little game of seduction and tease.

"Don't know what you're talking about," Buffy replied coyly.

"If you say so, Luv," Spike chuckled as he tossed his shirt onto the lounge chair beside him.

Buffy could not look away, noticing how muscular his chest and abdomen was. Other than magazines, she'd never seen a more defined, sexy six-pack on a man.

"Like what you see?" Spike asked knowing he liked what caught his eyes, while she was stripping down to her bathing suit. "I know I could look at you forever."

Buffy blushed as she made herself look away, unable to watch any longer, feeling it hard to breathe. Next thing she knew she heard the sound of water being disturbed and a husky voice saying, "Come in, baby, the water's perfect."

He turned to watch as she entered the pool, feeling jealous of the water that was caressing her skin. She looked even better up close in her little hunter green bikini then when he had seen her in it at the hotel.

Buffy felt nervous, feeling his eyes upon her as if he was devouring her whole as she stepped into the pool. She had never felt her body respond like this by someone simply staring at her. It was if his eyes were actually touching her. The drops of water dripping down his chest were tempting her to come and wipe them away.

"The water feels wonderful," Buffy sighed as she dipped below the water, with only her head and neck showing. "Do you miss not being able to swim in the sun?"

"I miss it terribly," Spike answered as he kept from moving toward her. He would let her come to him if that’s what she wanted to do. "But I would not trade this for all the sunshine in the world."

"Trade what?" Buffy asked, confused about what so special about now.

"You are more beautiful in the moonlight than in the sun, and I have you all to myself," Spike purred.

"What, I'm too ugly to look at in the light of day?" she teased as she circled around him.

"Luv, you could never be ugly. Here in the moonlight you look like a mermaid, my little water nymph," he said as he turned to watch her swim around him. "If I was a sailor I would jump and follow you to the bottom of the sea."

"But what if I was evil and just wanted to see you drown?" she asked, feeling her heart begin to race.

"Then I would die a happy man if you at least gave me a kiss before I died," Spike sighed, wanting nothing more than to do just that, kiss her until they could kiss no longer.

Buffy felt overwhelmed by his words as she told him. "I would never let you drown, my sailor."

He fought the urge to reach out and pull her against him. The last thing he needed to do was frighten her with how aroused his was right now. He was sure he was going to have a very uncomfortable night, most likely cold shower and some self-help would be in order.

Buffy swam toward him, seeing how he was holding back. She knew then and there that she would not be the virginal ice princess when she returned to Sunnydale. He tensed up as she moved closer to him, finding it hard to breathe.

"William, about that bet, I'm pretty sure I'm almost ready to pay in full," Buffy told him as she inched closer, feeling bold.

"Buffy, are you sure, Luv?" Spike groaned as he pictured her naked on the side of the pool with his head between her legs.

"Well you haven’t done the public kissing since we left my room," Buffy teased. "Could start there and see what happens."

"I'm getting a very naughty visual that I’m sure you’re not ready for," Spike said as he took a deep breath having made a decision.

Next thing Buffy knew he was splashing her and yelling, "Water tag and you're it."

She watched him swim away laughing. At first, she wondered if he wasn’t interested, until she remembered what he’d said. She realized then, he was just trying to slow things down so they could enjoy their time together.

"Not for long, Mister,” she answered him as she started to try to catch him.

*******

Wesley led Willow to the back of the ship as they strolled around talking about what they have done on the cruise so far.

"I just can't wait to see the turtle farm in Grand Cayman," Willow said, with such excitement that Wesley started to feel excited about it himself.

"I wish I could be there to share it with you," Wesley sighed, knowing he would enjoy the sightseeing more if he could see it through her eyes.

"Do you know which tour you’re going on?" Willow asked him as they found themselves at the back of the ship.

"We won’t know until tomorrow," Wesley replied. "It would seem they pick our names that morning, so it would be fair for the fans."

"Okay, here's the plan," Willow said as she thought of a plan. "I can wait until you know what you’re going to do and then, after you finish, we do something together."

Wesley pulled her toward the ships rails. "You, Miss Rosenberg, are brilliant."

Willow looked up into his eyes with a relaxed smile on her face and replied, "Why, thank you, kind sir."

Next thing she knew, he bent down and lightly touched his lips to hers. When she made no move to pull away he deepened the kiss. She tasted like the strawberry ice cream she had just eaten after the show. She fit into his arms as if she were made especially for him.

"Wow!" she said breathlessly when the kiss ended due to the fact that they needed to breathe.

"I must agree," Wesley sighed as he leaned his forehead against hers.

"I've never been kissed like that before," Willow rambled, not realizing she'd voiced her thoughts aloud.

"Neither have I," Wesley whispered as he pulled her closer. "I knew you were special that night at the hotel."

"You saw me at the hotel?" she asked as she leaned back slightly so she could see his face.

"Yes, when you and Buffy was spending time in the hot tub," he chuckled. "That’s where I first witnessed Spike's fascination with your friend and I, in turn, was interested in you."

"Really, he was interested in Buffy then? And you in me?" Willow asked the shock evident in her voice.

"Willow, on the plane he wanted me to travel with him to Sunnydale to find her and I agreed, not only because he was my friend," Wesley decided to tell her everything. "But also, because I would see you again."

Willow was speechless, finding it hard to believe he was interested in her, just plain ole Willow, never been out of Sunnydale before this week. "Me? You were interested in me?"

"Yes, I was. And now even more," he said as he leaned down and kissed her with more feeling than before.

Lindsey watched as the couple kissed a second time. He’d come to look for his strawberry, hoping to spend some time with her, take her dancing. Instead he found her in the arms of another man. A man he knew without a doubt he could not compete with. He knew that Wesley Pryce was a gentleman’s gentleman, and was the better man for the redhead.

*******

The only way to stop her from splashing him was to wrap his arms around her petite little body and pull her up against him. He knew it would mean he was playing with fire, and was using it as an excuse to touch her as he did just that.

The moment skin touched skin they both stopped moving. Both became enthralled with the other as neither of them spoke as they continued to gaze into each other's eyes.

"Buffy," Spike whispered right before he leaned forward to kiss her.

His arms wrapped around her drawing her near. He could feel her tremble as her body moved closer. He knew he'd have to watch himself, feeling the urge to just strip her naked and claim her body as his.

Buffy reached up and placed her arms around him neck. She allowed his tongue to enter and duel with hers. Never had a kiss made her feel like she was on fire. She could feel the effects all over her body, especially between her legs.

Lost in the kiss neither noted that they weren’t alone, as they had first thought. The stranger just smiled as he focused his fancy expensive camera and clicked away. They might not be the risqué ones the man had hired him for, well at least, not yet they weren't.

Spike broke away from the kiss giving them much needed time to breath, as his hands moved downward to her backside. He reveled at the silky feel of her skin as they traveled wishing they were somewhere more private. He fought the urge to grab a hold of her scrumptious little bottom and push her against the bulge in his trunks.

His lips traveled down to her chin and then her neck. Using his lips and tongue to taste and tease her skin. The needy little moans coming from her throat feed his hunger for her.

Buffy had never felt this excited, frustrated, and frightened all at the same time. She felt like she was tittering on the edge of a cliff, ready to fall. Her hands traveled everywhere she could touch. From his curly hair, to his shoulders, and over parts of his chest she would touch, savoring how she seemed to be affecting him.

Spike felt bolder as his tongue continued on its adventure, now finding its way licking along her collarbone. Wondering what she would do if he paid homage to the top curve of her breast and the valley between them.

"Spike," Buffy softly gasped her voice raspy with want.

Spike was about to stop, when she placed her hands, one on each side of his head. She used them to guide his face lower. He smiled to himself knowing soon, very soon, but not tonight, she would be his, body and soul.

Buffy moaned as she felt his tongue work its magic as he used it to bathe the skin between her breasts and around the edge of her bikini top. "God, this feels so good."

Spike knew he had to back off. The last thing he wanted was her first time being here, where anyone could come and get a free show. Since she had told him she was a virgin, he'd fantasized their first time in a bed with rose petals, soft music, and candlelight. He wanted to watch her face as he made love to her for her first time- their first time.

"Love you," he whispered as he stopped kissing her and submerged them into the water up to their neck. "Sorry, Luv."

She smiled at him adoringly. "No need to apologize, I understand."

"Let's get out and go and see if we can find Red and Percy," Spike suggested as he moved backwards pulling her along.

Buffy noticed just how affected Spike was when she saw how erect he was as he helped her out of the pool.

"Spike?" She said his name in a questioning tone.

Spike knew she had noticed his hard-on by how she had blushed and where her eyes had traveled at the time. "Yes, baby."

Buffy looked him in the eye and said, "I love you, too."

Spike's face softened as he smiled at her. "Good to know, Luv."

She stepped into his arms and let her hand gently cup his hardness. "Teach me how to please you."

"Buffy, you don't have to do this," Spike groaned as he attempted to pull away, but she slightly tightened her hold preventing him from doing so.

"I want to do this," she pouted. "Pretty please."

"Buffy, do you really want to do this here? We could go back to your room," Spike said, thinking by the time they made it there he would have himself in control. He then wouldn't be so tempted to teach her how to please him with her pretty little hand.

"You wouldn’t think less of me if I touched you like that, would you?" she asked trying to hide her insecurity.

"No, you could let me fuck you here and now and it would not change the fact that I love you," Spike swore, as he pulled her to him causing her to let go of his manhood. "Buffy, I want our first time to be more than special. I want it to be where I can take all night to make sure you enjoy it most of all."

"I just don't want you to think I'm a tease," she mumbled feeling embarrassed.

"Never, baby," Spike reassured her. "Are you afraid I would stray, Luv?"

"Maybe, I don't know," she answered honestly.

"Never would do that, Buffy," Spike comforted her. "I know what it feels like to be cheated on, and wouldn't wish that on anyone, but Angel…but that’s a story for another time. I’ll wait for when you’re ready, baby, because you’re worth it."

Buffy wrapped her arms around his neck and hugged him tight. "We can make this work, can't we?" she asked.

"Yes, we can and we will," Spike promised as he held her close. "I will never leave you, Buffy, never."

Buffy realized, when they got back to her room she would have to tell Spike about her encounter with Angel. She knew he'd be mad, but Colin was right, it would come out and he'd be more upset finding out from someone else.

Rack smiled evilly, knowing what he had obtained tonight would get him some Enquirer interest. Cheating always was easy to sell, and with Spike Crawford caught making out with a fan from the cruise would make it that much more interesting.

*******

Buffy moaned when the alarm went off, telling her it was time to get up. The problem being it was six in the morning, and it was just wrong to get up so early on vacation. She rolled over reaching to turn off the God awful sound, at the same time Willow was trying to do the same thing.

"I hate mornings, especially ones that should go its merry way while my eyes are closed and my mind is resting," Buffy grumbled as she tried not to lay her head back down and just go back to sleep.

"I know what you mean," Willow moaned as she sat up on the side of her bed.

"What the hell were we thinking taking an early tour?" Buffy asked right before she put her face in her pillow.

"Get as much done this week since we most likely will never do this again," Willow surmised, as she made herself stand up and fight the urge to lay back down and just vegetate.

"I will need a vacation to recover from the vacation," Buffy giggled as she too rolled out of bed.

"We need to hurry so we can make sure to meet the guys for breakfast and finalize where and when to meet up with them," Willow reminded her, knowing she really didn't need to.

"Okay, me first since I do more to my hair than you," Buffy said as she hurried to gather her things.

They were going to tour the Queen Elizabeth II Botanical Gardens, and go to the little town known as Hell. That was the tentative plan until they found out what Spike and Wesley's itinerary consisted of.

Spike and Buffy had met up with Wesley and Willow at the girls’ cabin. They had sat around and talked for about an hour making plans and back up plans for tomorrow. Seems the boys would not know what was in store for them until morning. Supposedly they would wake up with their assigned tours since someone would slip it under their door.

"Okay, just don’t fall asleep in the shower," Willow said as she opened the balcony door and breathed in the ocean air.

"That was in the bathtub and we were ten years old," Buffy replied, rolled her eyes and turned on the shower.

*******

Spike heard the alarm go off while sitting out on the balcony. He found it hard to fall back asleep when he woke up a half hour ago. Thoughts of the lengths Angel had gone to, to mess with his life would not go away. He was sure that his co-star's antics were far from over and expected more to come. What worried him the most is how it could affect Buffy, especially since she told him of her run in with the bastard.

"How long have you been awake?" Wesley asked, noticing the worried expression on his friend's face.

"Not long," Spike answered, silently chastising himself for now hearing Wesley moving about, since the alarm was still blaring. "Care to kill the noise, mate, unless you are trying to wake up the dead that is."

"No, the only dead is already awake," Wesley snorted, wondering what he was going to have to do to make Spike talk to him.

"Wes, what if the tape surfaced on the net?" Spike asked. "I mean, it shows what a cheat Harmony is, and what a shit Angel is, and let’s not even guess about Dru."

"But, what will the public think of the derogatory comments made about you by the naughty couples?" Wesley asked, knowing some of what was bothering his friend.

"Yeah, that," Spike replied, as he took a deep breath. "What if he does something that hurts Buffy or makes her think I'm not worth the hassle?"

"For one, I don't think Mr. Ego would like his fans and the people who would hire him to know he likes to be called ‘Daddy’," Wesley offered, to ease Spike's mind a bit. "I really do not believe he'd do something to damage his image that way."

Spike sighed feeling like a weight had been lifted off his shoulders. He hadn’t thought about Peaches asking Harmony and Dru to call him ‘Daddy’ during their little romps. It surprised him how talking about it all now didn’t bother him any more.

"As for Buffy, I think you should tell her everything, so he has no power over you where she is concerned," Wesley suggested.

"I'm not showing her the tape," Spike stated his tone abrupt.

"I agree," Wesley snorted. "I mean, it's enough I'm emotionally scarred from the deplorable display."

"So you say," Spike chuckled, as he watched Wesley disgusted expression and his body shuddered dramatically.

"I say we should get a move on, since we need to meet the ladies for a quick breakfast and discuss afternoon plans," Wesley said, refusing to let Angel take up anymore of their time.

"So where are you going today?" Spike asked as he followed Wes back into the cabin.

"It would seem I'm going with the group to the Seven Mile Beach," he answered. "Looks like you get to enjoy the day at the Queen's Garden and a trip to Hell."

"Great, looks like we’re on for taking our ladies to pet the turtles," Spike chuckled, feeling like his world was looking up.

"Yes it would seem," Wesley replied, finding it hard not to smile and well. He loved it when plans came together.

*******

Buffy tried not to notice William since he was working. Turned out they had ended up at Hell at the same time. She stood by the fence looking out over the jagged iron rock, otherwise known as lava. It reached out as far as the eye could see, and out in the middle of it was a scarecrow like figure that was dressed like the devil holding a pitchfork.

She and Willow had laughed when they had read the sign welcoming them to Hell. Both joked they thought they had left Hell back at home at Sunnydale, otherwise known as the Hellmouth amongst the locals.

"Hello, Cutie," the familiar British voice said from behind her.

"My mother told me never to talk to strangers," Buffy replied coyly.

"Then let me remedy that, Luv," Spike purred as he stepped closer to her. "Name's Spike."

"Oh, my what an intimidating name, Spike," she teased.

"Oh, don't let if fool you, Pet. I'm really a loveable fluffy puppy," Spike whispered as he leaned closer to her ear.

"I like puppies," Buffy replied as she leaned against him.

"Later I can show you what makes me a good puppy." Spike said as he nuzzled her neck.

"I'm sure you will," Buffy giggled as she tilted her head to give him better access.

"I can't stay long, have to get back to work," he told her as he hugged her closer. "I miss you already."

"It won't be long, baby," she sighed, not knowing how she made him feel by calling him baby.

Spike found himself speechless when he heard her call him baby. Never did he think an endearment coming from someone would feel so special, as it did coming from this woman.

Willow bit her lip to keep from laughing at how they were acting. She walked away to give them some privacy. The one thing she noticed was the envious, jealous, happy, expressions on various people's faces.

"Gotta go, Pet," Spike said as he turned her around so she was facing him.

Buffy pouted as she wrapped her arms around his waist. "Gonna miss ya, honey."

Spike leaned down and kissed her, not caring what anyone thought. She was his and he was hers and if they didn't like it, then to hell with them. He reluctantly broke the kiss, leaning his forehead against hers.

"See you soon, Pet," he said as he stepped back, letting his hands trail down her arms, taking her hands in his and giving them a gentle squeeze before letting them go. She never noticed him remove the ring off her right ring finger.

Buffy nodded her head yes, as she lifted her hand, waving goodbye, blowing him a kiss. She knew now without a doubt that she was in love and that he loved her as well. One day she would ask him if he believed in love at first sight, and if he believed in fate.

Spike found it hard to turn and walk away from her. One day he would have to ask her if she believed in soul-mates. He was sure that he had met his, and her name was Buffy Anne Summers from Sunnydale. He quietly slipped her ring into his pants pocket.

Buffy turned and walked over to the building that served as a tourist guide in area where you could buy refreshments and learn about Hell. In the front of the store was a sign like contraption where you could stand behind and put you face through the hole making it look like you were Lucifer.

"Oh honey, welcome to the Grand Cayman, the largest of the Caymans," a colorful dressed dark-skinned woman said, her voice heavily accented just like the other natives here.

"Thank you, it's a beautiful island," Buffy replied.

"The name is Sally, and yours is?"

"My name is Buffy," she told her as she held out her hand.

The woman took Buffy's hand and held it between both of hers with her eyes closed and hummed gently. "Your dreams will all come true, the road will be hard at times, but that is life. I see many things of the good, but most of all I see that life is your gift."

Buffy felt anxious at what this woman was saying, wondering what she could possibly mean that life was her gift. "I'm sorry, but I really don't believe in psychic stuff."

Sally just gave her an understanding smile as she said, "It is not for you to believe, for it will not change your course. Just follow your heart child, and it will guide you home."

Buffy opened her mouth to say something only to have the woman shake her head no. "Just remember my words young one, for in the end you will see that I am right," the older woman said giving her a wink before turning to leave.

"Who was that?" Willow asked, as she joined Buffy.

"Her name is Sally, resident Priestess here in Hell," the dark-skinned man behind the counter wearing a Bob Marley tee shirt, and long dread locks answered Willow's question instead of Buffy.

"Priestess?" Buffy asked.

"Do you believe in the supernatural?" he asked, looking at both women and wondering how much they understood about the magic that some practiced in the islands here in the Caribbean.

"I believe it all comes down to faith, like any religion," Willow answered, believing he was talking about Voodoo.

"I guess I never really thought about it," Buffy replied, feeling anxious that the lady had approached her of all people.

"She tell you some thing there, pretty missy?" The man behind the counter asked the blonde woman of the pair having noticed her anxiety.

"She told me that my dreams would come true and that my gift is life," Buffy answered, feeling nervous, thinking she had told this stranger so much, maybe too much.

"I can say she is not a fake like some of those people on the telly," he said as he gave her a reassuring smile. "And all must be of the good, 'cause she keeps the bad to herself."

Buffy wondered if maybe they worked as a team, this wild looking man and Sally. "Thank you," she said as she put her soda on the counter to pay for it.

"No, on the house lovely lady, Sally would shave my head and hide my stash, if I charged you," he chuckled as he refused her money.

Buffy didn't know what to do or say other than, "Thank you." She was feeling uneasy about these recent events happening here in Hell.

"You are most welcome, and enjoy your stay," he said giving her a reassuring wink.

He watched as she and her friend walked out of the store before turning toward his mother. "She must be special to share your vision with the American."

"I felt the need to touch her and it all came so fast. She will be surprised at her gift." Sally said as she watched the petite blonde walk over toward her bus. "He will heal her heart and soul as she will his. They will know true love until the day they die."

"You, mother, are an amazing woman," Raj said.

"I am just a woman with a gift is all," Sally replied, as she patted her son's hand. "Now I must go and lay down, my old bones need to rest."

Raj watched as he mother went toward the back room that had a lumpy couch. She normally never came to work with him, and now he knew why she had.

*******

"So, Penny for your thoughts," Giles said having noticed the contemplative look on the young man's face.

"I do not wish to bore you with my foolish thoughts," Wesley sighed.

"Never foolish, ole chap never think that. Lighten the burden and share," Giles encouraged, wondering if it had to do with his feelings concerning Willow.

Wesley looked over at the only other person he trusted with his life and said, "I think I might be falling in love."

"I would never think that foolish, ridiculous, or absurd. In fact it's remarkable, amazing and astounding," Giles said, thinking it would be wonderful for both Wesley and Spike to settle down with women worthy of them.

"I'm not the most affectionate partner," Wesley tried to explain his concern.

"Neither was I," Giles went on to explain. "You see, I was a stuffed shirt Englishman until Jenny came into my life. She found that inner passionate man underneath and brought him to life."

Wesley chuckled remembering Jenny saying the same thing once. Maybe there was a chance he could change and not be as Giles had put it, a stuffed shirt.

"So old man, you're telling me there's still hope for me then?" Wesley snorted.

"I think the hardest part is giving your heart and soul over to someone else, and trusting them to keep it safe. Once it's done the rest falls into place and your life will never be the same again," Giles told him, knowing the day he gave Jenny his he never regretted it.

"How do you keep your marriage alive with how you work in L.A. and Jenny and the kids live in Arizona?" Wesley asked, wondering if he and Willow could work on their relationship living in different cities.

"Love, trust and sacrifice on both our parts. Compromise, again, on both our parts." Giles explained. "If you want it bad enough you will make it work."

"What if she thinks I'm crazy for giving up the life my father demanded of me for becoming an actor?" Wesley asked, finally voicing his worst fear.

"Lilah was a selfish bint who looked at your station in society, and not at the man. Where Willow will, and has, looked at the man and not the star." Giles voiced his theory on the differences of the two women, wishing he could say a few meaningful words to Mr. Wyndham-Pryce and Miss Morgan.

"Thanks for listening," Wesley said as he turned to look at the older man.

Giles could see the little boy inside the man who needed a fatherly approval and reassurance. Even if by age he was closer to being an older brother.

"Anytime you need to talk my door will always be open," Giles reassured him.

"The beach here is breathtaking, is it not?" Wesley asked, changing the subject to something less personal for now.

The white sand traveled as far down as the eye could see. They were not lying when they named the beach, 'Seven Mile Beach'. The water was the color of Caribbean blue and the waves were great for body surfing.

"Yes, Jenny and the girls are having a great time," Giles replied as he patted the younger man's shoulder offering his silent support and understanding.

"It was nice of Mr. Caritas to allow them to come with us today," Wesley said as he looked over to see Sara and Ally frolicking in the water, with an ever-watchful mother looking on.

"Yes. It was starting to get to me, not spending enough time with my family," Giles agreed, as he kept an eye on his precious treasures.

"So, are you and the family coming with us to the turtle farm?" Wesley asked, as he continued to watch Jenny and the girls, wondering if one day he would be watching Willow and his children do the same thing on a beach somewhere.

"Oh! And face the wrath of my demon seed if not," Giles moaned dramatically fighting off a smile.

Wesley laughed as he replied, "Well, it doesn’t help to be out numbered does it?"

"No, it does not," Giles happily answered, "But I would not change it for the world."

Wesley could see the man was not lying. The love and devotion on Rupert's face said it all. It gave him courage as he decided what he needed to do to make his dreams come true.

*******

"Spike."

"Angel."

"How have you liked the convention so far?" Angel asked acting all innocent like.

Spike pretended he was thinking about his answer, when in fact, he was trying to keep his anger in check. The last thing he needed was a confrontation here in front of the fans. It was the last thing he wanted.

"What, can't think of something nice to say?" Angel prodded, hoping he'd push the bleached blonde prick over the edge.

"Oh, lot of nice things, just having a hard time picking out the nicest," Spike replied as he gave the big lug a dazzling smile.

When he had found out he was sharing this tour with Angel it almost sent him into a tantrum. If not for the quick intervention of Anya, asking if she could have a moment of Spike's time, he was sure his temper would have gotten him in trouble.

His was still curious about what Anya and Xander needed to talk to him about. The brazen little chit was upset he had not returned any of her messages, until he explained he was spending time with Buffy and had not thought to check for any messages. All she did was give him an understanding little wink and then made him promise to make time for her and Xander before dinner.

Angel wanted so badly to mention something about Buffy, but knew it would be a bad move. He had seen the little scene back in Hell and it had made his blood boil, he was so angry. But he would make the little bitch pay for her rejection and Spike would pay as well for not acting as planned.

"So have you talked to Harmony since you left?" Angel asked, thinking it was an innocent enough question that would give him some idea if Spike watched the tape or not.

"Nope, not a word, since we broke up before I left," Spike said, keeping his voice calm, when he really wanted to punch the git’s lights out.

Angel had not expected to hear this and wondered why Harmony hadn’t told him. He responded with his voice sounding concerned, "I’m sorry to hear that."

Spike just shrugged, hoping this tour would be over very soon. He wanted as far away from this bastard as he could get before he listened to his inner demon and let his fists fly.

Spike suddenly had an idea as he told Angel, "I think the little bint was cheating on me."

Angel kept his cool, wondering if the bleached wonder was setting him up for something as he replied, "Really? I didn't take her as the cheating type."

"I suspected for awhile, but since I really didn't love her it didn't matter," Spike said as he acted as if her cheating would mean nothing. "It wasn't like I planned on marrying her, just not the family mothering type I was looking for."

Angel had a hard time deciphering if Spike was telling him the truth or just playing him. He had thought the man was head over heels for the blonde gold digger.

"Good thing you broke it off then, especially if she was cheating," Angel answered, thinking to just play along and pretend to support him.

"Never trusted her really, that's why I still protected myself if you know what I mean," Spike said as he gave the man a wink before continuing on. "I learned from the best that a girl can't be trusted."

With that said Spike walked away patting himself on the back at having played with the Poof's head. He was sure Captain Forehead was silently banging his head wondering if he had seen the tape or not. He was sure the man would be brooding that his plan wasn’t working out as it should have and Spike was still standing with his sanity intact.

*******

Wesley watched as Willow and Buffy walked toward him. Spike had made a run to the check on something, promising to be right back. Giles words of encouragement ran through his head as he decided to follow his heart as he moved toward the redhead walking his way.

Willow looked into his blue eyes and noticed a warmth present there that was more intense than this morning directed at her. She wondered what he was thinking that made him look at her like that.

Wesley found himself standing in front of her looking down, noticing her bright eyes staring up at him with a questionable expression on her face. All he could do was lean down and kiss her lips, smiling, as he tasted the cream soda she must have just finished drinking.

Willow lost herself in the kiss as she opened her mouth and let his tongue explore. Never had a kiss made her feel as giddy and excited as he deepened it, wrapping his arms around her and pulling her close. She barely realized her arms wrapped around his waist holding his close as well.

Buffy smiled as she moved past them giving them their space. She walked over to where Giles and Jenny where sitting with the girls. They had a soft smile on their faces as they watched the kissing couple.

"Looks like good kissage happening there," Buffy said, giving Jenny wink.

"Oh, I would say very much good kissage," Jenny agreed.

Sara and Allyson giggled as they whispered to each other how. Parts of sitting in a tree and spelling out kissing could be heard.

"Where's Spike?" Buffy asked as she looked for him.

"He’ll be right back," Jenny reassured her.

"Okay," Buffy replied as she looked to see if anyone came up for air yet.

"You seem upset about something?" Jenny asked.

Buffy felt the tears again threaten to fall, "I lost my mother's ring."

"Oh, my dear. Are you sure you wore it today?" Jenny asked, feeling sad for the young woman.

"I only take it off to shower and go to bed." Buffy sighed, trying not to cry, thinking it would ruin everyone's day. "It was special to me, when I wore it I felt like she was with me."

"Oh, honey. I'm so sorry." Jenny sighed giving her young friend a sympathetic hug.

Spike's smile grew when he noticed his friend in the deep lip-lock with Red. It confirmed that Percy had fallen, just like he had. Things would not be the same, but better, since both their hearts would be in Sunnydale.

Next his eyes took in the beauty that was talking to Jenny and Rupert. He quickly walked over so he could show her how happy he was to see her. The closer he got, the more excited he felt about what he had in his pocket. The jeweler had been able to use Buffy's ring to size it perfectly.

During their tour in Hell, a woman by the name of Sally had held his hand with her eyes closed at first. She opened her eyes and looked at him with a wide smile and said, "Be not afraid, ask her." It was the driving force behind what he bought her just a few minutes ago. The first thing he noticed was his girl had been crying.

"Baby, what's wrong?" He asked and became worried when she moved to hug him, with fresh tears in her eyes.

"I some how lost my mother's ring." Her voice sounding so forlorn it broke his heart, knowing he had the ring safely in his pocket.

He couldn't find the words to say that would soothe her. The thought of giving it to her now had presented itself, but then he'd have to explain more then he was ready to at the moment. What he had to say he wanted said in private, wanting it special between them.

"I'm sorry, baby." He murmured as he held her close.

*******

"Oh look how cute." Willow giggled as they watched the two turtles swim toward them.

"They feel soft, not slimy," Sarah said as she cautiously touched the one turtle closer to her.

"We do our best to keep the water clean," Wally, the park caretaker, explained.

"Do you keep the babies here?" Allyson asked, hoping they didn't separate the babies from their mothers.

"Yes, we keep them separate with their mamas'. I’ll show you after we are done here," Wally reassured her.

"Oh, cool baby turtles," Sarah said as she became bolder as she stroked the turtles shell. "So do you ever put them back in the ocean?"

Wally smiled as he nodded. "Sometimes we have to make room as the babies grow. But we’re trying to expand so we will not have to do that."

Buffy absently ran her fingers through the water as she observed the family having a family moment. The father was talking to his little girl trying to get her to pet one of the turtles. The moment was precious and heartbreaking at the same time, knowing she'd never be able to give the man she loved a child of his own.

Spike noticed the melancholy look on his girl's face. He turned to see what had made her look so and noticed she was watching a man and child interact with each other as a father and daughter would. He moved closer and leaned in to kiss her cheek.

"If you'd like you I can pretend to be scared about touching the shelled little mammals," he whispered.

Buffy turned and frowned at him and said, "I wouldn’t be able to give you a moment like that."

"No, but there would be other moments that I can think of that would make up for it," Spike informed her with a wicked smile on his face. "Remember, there are children out there who would love to have a mommy like you."

Buffy felt the tears form. His words touching her heart, making her fall deeper in love with him. They reinforced her decision that she would show him just how much she loved him very soon.

"Thank you," she said, as she reached up and softly stroked his cheek.

"You're welcome, Luv," he replied as he leaned into her hand and sighed, reveling in her touch. "You are one hell of a woman, Miss Summers, and not being able to have children does not lessen that fact."

Buffy's hand drifted up behind his head, her fingers threading through his hair, before pulling him down into a kiss that took on a life of its own. The fact they were in public flew out the window as their tongues mated and their bodies closed the gap between them.

Spike broke the kiss, sensing they both needed to breathe. His lips continued to explore with gentle pecks on her cheek, nose, chin, forehead, as he calmed himself. Her hand gently rubbed his lower back, her eyes closed, with a content expression on her face.

"I could kiss you until the end of the world," he told her, as he softly placed a chaste kiss on her lips.

"Uh huh," she said her voice raspy as she refused to open her eyes.

"How about you? Could you kiss me until the end of the world?" he asked her, watching as her features softened with the satisfied grin that appeared.

"Oh, yeah. If the world ended tomorrow I'd want your lips on mine, fella, big time."

Spike chuckled as he replied, "I can think of somewhere else I would like my lips to be."

Buffy's eyes opened suddenly as she blushed. She was speechless at the implications of his words. For the first time since the kissing began, she took an interest in her surroundings as she scanned for anyone who might have heard what he implied.

"Don't worry, my lovely, no one heard me talk naughty," Spike said as he waggled his eyebrows and curled his tongue between his teeth, looking like he was ready to eat her.

Just the thought of him eating her made her blush more, as she tried to get the thought out of her head. She tried to picture other things to take her mind off how much this turned her on.

Spike started to become worried, wondering if he had offended her in some way as he tried to apologize, "I'm sorry, Pet. I didn't mean to offend."

Buffy realized he thought he had upset her and finally found her voice as she quickly reassured him he was wrong. "No, you just surprised me, or maybe more to the truth, I was surprised at how it made me feel."

Spike tilted his head and his expression softened. "Has no one ever flirted with you like this?"

"God, no." Buffy giggled nervously. "Since the college fiasco, I avoided flirty Buffy and ran far and fast from anyone who seemed they wanted to flirt."

"Well, your running days are over, Ducks," Spike informed her as he winked at her pulling his bottom lip back between his teeth.

"What about you?" she asked, as she started to get lost in his eyes.

"Only running for me is to you, baby," he purred as he waggled his eyebrows before leaning in to kiss her.

"Excuse me, you are teaching the turtles bad habits," Jenny said in a joking manner.

"Kissing is not a bad habit," Spike mumbled against his girl's lips. "Go try it on your man."

"I would love to, but it's time to head back to the ship if we want to check out some of the shops," Jenny informed them, having lost the short straw contest on who was going to come and make the couple come up for air.

"It's that late already?" Buffy asked, wondering where the time had gone.

"Well, I guess it's true when the say time flies when having fun," Jenny said as she gave the couple a knowing look.

"Oh, and what fun we had. Right, Pet?" Spike asked giving his girl a saucy look before taking her hand and leading her back toward the others.

Wesley stood with Willow by his side with his arm around her waist. Since their kiss earlier, they had stayed very close together. He wondered if sometime during this trip if he and his best friend would be changing roommates.

Buffy walked beside her man, with her hand securely in his. Losing her mother's ring still played heavy on her mind. She had given her mother the ring, for mother's day a few years back.

Spike noticed the sad look on her face as she looked at the hand her mother's ring used to be. He wished he could tell her, but it would ruin the surprise. In his mind, she would understand, since he had her ring cleaned and her mother's name inscribed inside the band. He just hoped she liked the other present he had bought as well.

*******

Anya stood at the rail as she waited to talk to Spike. Her husband patiently leaned beside her, hoping they were doing the right thing.

"Are you sure about this Anya? I mean this is really touchy,” Xander said, finding it hard not to third and fourth guess if this was for the best.

"I think Spike needs to be forewarned how drastic Angel is willing to go," Anya said, justifying her need to tell Spike about Angel implying the blonde male swung both ways.

"I just hope it doesn't cause bad feelings between Spike and Mr. Caritas is all," Xander tried to explain his main reason about feeling unsure.

"Spike is not as intimidated by gay men as you my loving heterosexual husband," Anya reached up to lovingly pat his cheek. "He is secure enough in his manhood to not let it bother him. I mean look how he and Wes joke about it all the time."

"I never understood about that," Xander wondered aloud.

"I don't know either, but I know for a fact they are not lovers and never were," Anya reassured her manly man husband.

Neither of them noticed they were not alone as Colin Masters spied on the couple. He realized now that Angel was not out to destroy his wife, but used her to assist in getting back at Spike for some reason. He would have to talk further with Mr. Crawford and see what he could do to help him beat Angel at his own game.

*******

"Buffy, can I talk to you?" Allyson asked, finding Spike's new girlfriend alone in con private party room reserved for the cast. Spike having left to run back to his room, wanting to put what he'd bought her safely away.

"Sure, Ally," Buffy encouraged her, thinking she knew what the girl was going to ask her.

"I was…well, I don't know how to ask," Ally tried to voice her concerns.

"I won’t do anything to keep Spike away from you or your sister," Buffy reassured her. "I would love it if we could do things together, the four of us."

"Really?" Allyson asked, her voice showing how happy this made her.

"Yes, you are a part of his life, and I will not try to come between those who mean so much to him," Buffy said as she pulled the younger girl into a hug. "I would like to spend more time with you and your sister, so we can get to know more about each other."

Allyson returned the hug enthusiastically as she told Buffy, "I'm so glad mom met you and Willow."

"I am too, and not just because of Spike either," Buffy replied, feeling her life enriched by knowing the Giles family as well.

"Hey, what's with the hugging with me not here?" Spike said, having overheard the conversation.

Allyson quickly released Buffy and threw herself into her uncle's arms hugging him tight around the neck. "I love you, Uncle Spike."

"I love you too, Poppit, care to tell me what this is all about?" He returned the hug just as tight, wanting her to know his feelings for her had not changed.

"I really like Buffy," she rambled on. "And she likes me, too."

Spike smiled as he winked at Buffy. "Good, glad to hear it, your opinion means a lot to me, you know."

"She's a keeper," Allyson whispered in his ear before giving him a sloppy kiss on his cheek.

"I agree, little one," Spike whispered back, as he leaned down and kissed her forehead. "Now go and tell Sara neither of you have nothin' to fear."

"Okay," she answered, as she turned and ran to hug Buffy one more time. "I'm so happy."

Buffy returned the hug right before the girl sprinted away looking for her sister so she could share the great news.

"They really love you," Buffy sighed. "You would make a great father, you know that?"

"If it's meant to be, so be it." Spike shrugged as he crooked his finger beckoning her to come to him. "If not, then I will enjoy the love of a good woman and will baby-sit the offspring of family and friends and rejoice when I return the little imps back to their parents care."

He couldn't wait. She was moving toward him slower than he liked. He reached out with both hands gently grabbing her waist, pulling her flush against him. "Now this is much better."

She giggled as her arms wrapped around his neck, gazing up at him. She let her fingers play with the short hairs at the base of his neck as she closed her eyes and reveled in the feel of him so close.

"We don't have much time before we have to meet Anya and Xander," Spike sighed as he continued to hold her, feeling content now that she was snug in his embrace. He knew if he started kissing her right now, he'd take her and go somewhere more private.

"Do we have to?" she asked, giving him a pout that cried for his attention.

"Yeah, but not before I do this."

He groaned as he took her lower lip between his teeth and gently nibble, before plundering her mouth with his.

Buffy gasped at the intense pleasure he was giving her with just a kiss. Each time was better than before, and left her wondering how she ever lived without this in her life. She moaned as she felt his hands travel up under the hem of her dress, softy stroking his fingers over the skin of her thighs.

He felt like he was spiraling out of control as his hands found her bottom to be bare. Except for the flimsy piece of string like material telling him, she was wearing a thong. He spread his fingers so he could squeeze her firm buttocks and pull her mound against his hardening bulge between his legs.

Spike cursed when he heard someone clearing their throat and saying, "Don't you think you should take that display else where."

Buffy froze, her eyes growing wide and blushing in embarrassment as she tried to pull away, but finding William wouldn't let her go right away.

"Like, I haven't caught you and the whelp in more compromising positions before, demon lover." Spike chuckled, as he reluctantly removed his hands, but not stepping away just yet. He was sporting a rather noticeable hard on and he didn't want to further fluster his girl.

"You got me there fang face," Anya giggled, as she noticed her husband rolling his eyes.

"Listen Dead Boy Junior, don't push you luck. I'm sure I can find a stake with your name on it," Xander said, forgetting how Spike would turn a statement like that around on him.

"Do you now, Harris. Does you wife know about that stake with my name on it?" Spike said, letting his voice get all sexy. "And here I thought you were straight as an arrow."

Xander got flustered as he realized his mistake. "It's not what I meant and you know it, you pervert."

Anya laughed. "Boys, please. I don't think Spike's little honey is aware of how her lover like's to tease you."

Buffy had started to become slightly uncomfortable with the verbal sparing between the two men.

"Don't fret, Luv. I only go for the women, just like to push X-man's buttons is all," Spike reassured her. "All talk, honest."

"You can say that again," Xander hurried to agree with Spike. "No gayness here, only in the emotional happy kind that is."

Buffy relaxed and was able to see the humor as she watched Xander's reaction. She could tell by Anya's reaction, this was a common play between them.

"You should catch his and Wesley's act sometimes," Anya snickered. "They leave me in stitches every time."

"Well it has a history that maybe one day we will share with you," Spike said. "And no, we never slept with each other or even thought about it, or with any other men either."

"Okay, good to know," Buffy giggled. "Maybe one day you’ll tell me."

Spike nodded his head right before he turned his attention on the other couple and asked, "So what’s so important you need to talk to me?" He could tell it was a touchy subject with how jumpy the whelp was acting.

"I think we need to sit down for this one," Anya replied as she turned to take her husband's hand and walk with him over to the corner table.

"I'm thinking this is serious," Spike mumbled as he maneuvered Buffy to walk in front of him, his erection still somewhat of a bother.

Buffy had noticed his little problem and made sure no one else got a glimpse of it either. She started feeling guilty about how he always ended up left in the lurch. There was no way it was comfortable, and she prayed it didn't cause him any pain.

Once they were seated Spike gave the couple a suspicious look as asked, "So, spit it out, it's not like Anya to beat around the bush."

Anya knew he was right and said, "Well, it's not everyday I get to tell a friend that one of his co-workers is telling a member of the happy community that you would be his cup of tea."

Spike took a moment to decipher her little riddle and asked. "So Angel is telling another man I'm gay?"

"Well, more like bi," Anya answered, noticing the shocked look on Buffy's face. "But I know it's not true and I let a friend of this interested party in on that fact."

Spike sat there stunned, he could not believe what had just come out of Anya's mouth. He knew Angel had it out for him for some reason, but this and the tape of Dru and Harmony was getting too weird and bit much to handle.

"Who’s the man?" Spike asked, wishing to apologize to the man.

"I think it would be best not to mention who," Anya replied, thinking it would only cause uncomfortable dealing if they worked with the man in the future.

"Anya, I want to tell him I'm sorry that Angel dragged him in on this fucking stupid vendetta he seems to have against me," Spike said, his voice getting loud as he became angry.

"He has been informed you had nothing to do with this and it's all Angel's illogical stupidity at wanting to defame you is all," Anya quickly tried to explain. "He is jealous of your natural talent, you have the looks, brains, and you can act."

Xander spoke up for the first time, "I agree with Anya. He’s just trying to keep you from upstaging him, not realizing you already have."

Spike looked at the whelp and frowned. "I haven't upstaged anyone."

"Not on purpose, but you pull in the most viewers, the producers and directors love you," Xander explained. "Spike, you are the one who will go places after this show is done. You have the talent to be the Richard Burton, Henry Fonda, or any other great actor out there."

Spike blushed at the praise and replied, "I don't want to be better than anyone, I just want to be good at what I do."

"That’s what makes you special," Anya said, as she gave him an encouraging smile. "That is why you have the friends you do, and jealous brat O'Connor doesn't."

"William, I'm worried," Buffy said, her voice soft as her hand took his in hers and squeezed it. "Isn't there someone you could talk to about what he is doing?" she asked.

"Delicate situation with the press, contracts, and evidence to back it all up," Anya tried to explain. "Unfortunately his name carries a lot of weight in the business, since he’s been around a bit longer and has more movies and such behind his name."

Spike scooted his chair closer to his girl and let her hand go so he could wrap his arm around her as he reassured her, "Don't worry, baby. Nothing is going to happen to me, I promise."

"I don't trust him," Buffy said as she shook her head. "I don't trust him not to hurt you."

Anya silently agreed with Buffy and hoped she would talk some sense into him. She looked over at her husband and could see he was worried too.

"Maybe I can be of some assistance," Colin Masters interrupted, having followed the Harris's. "I promise not to harm the man, but try and find a way to make him back off."

"Colin, it's not nice to sneak around and snoop, it's down right rude and spooky," Anya chastised him as she shook her finger at him.

"Sorry, but I have a reason to want a little revenge on the bastard myself," Colin said as he moved to take a seat at the table between Anya and Spike. "I also like to protect my friends."

"So, how do you think you could help?" Spike asked, as he gave Buffy's waist a gentle squeeze.

"Anya, if you'd be so good to relay this message to the person who is in contact with Spike's secret admirer," Colin said, the vibe in his voice sent chills up their spine. "Let him know that Angel will be getting what he deserves." Making everyone at the table relieved this man was on their side.

They shared ideas and made plans. Once the others believed that Masters was not out to kill or maim O'Connor they relaxed and participated in the mission on giving Angel a taste of his own medicine.

*******

Lorne sat in the chair on his balcony trying to ignore his two assistants who were arguing over who was going to emcee the karaoke contest rehearsals tonight. They had just finished getting all the applicants finalized they were going to meet after dinner to go over details.

"Children, can you please take this to one of your rooms." Lorne finally interrupted. "Daddy has a headache and would like for you to leave him alone for awhile."

Cordy shared a concerned look with Lindsey. It wasn't like their boss to have more than one drink before dinner when he was on the job. She walked over, and kissed his cheek and then replied. "Since you brought it up, Daddy, why do you love Lindsey more than me?"

Lorne sighed as he lifted up his tumbler of scotch, only to have it taken out of his hand by his irritating employee. "Hey, don't push it, brat," he said as he tried to take the glass back, only to have her step away and give him a worried look.

"Lorne, honestly, what is eating you?" she asked, feeling she already knew, but was sure Lindsey had not a clue.

"Can't a man have a drink enjoying the sun and ocean breezes?" Lorne asked as he glared at her.

"Lindsey, would you give me and grumpy here a few minutes alone?" Cordy asked as she gave the younger man a pleading look.

"Hey, not one to get between a man and his liquid comfort so I’ll go and make sure no one has torn down a sign or something," Lindsey replied, wondering what Cordy knew that he didn't.

"You could take Miss Nosey Butt here with you," Lorne said as he pointed at Cordy. "Could be a promotion that goes with it for services rendered."

Lindsey laughed out loud before telling his boss what he thought, "I'd rather take on a pit of vipers before taking on Cordy."

"Chicken. And I thought you were a manly man," Lorne snorted, trying to keep from smiling, since he too would rather take on the vicious reptiles than Cordy when she was on a roll.

"Nope, just smart, and I like life," Lindsey said as he opened the door and walked out of the room.

"Now, talk," Cordy demanded as she stood in front of her boss and good friend with her hands across her chest. She had put the glass of liquor down on the table behind her.

"I just feel like a fool is all," Lorne sighed. "Can we leave it at that?"

"Sure, but you have no reason to feel that way. Angel played you, and thank God, Allah, Buddha, Jehovah, or what ever Powers in charge that you found out before you did make a fool of yourself," Cordy reasoned. "I get the feeling you started feeling something for this guy."

"No, it's the fact I let myself be played, as you say. It's a sign I'm getting old is all," Lorne told her, wondering when he would ever find a life partner.

"Well, I do know someone who’s been eyeing you," Cordy said, deciding to try a little matchmaking of her own.

Lorne gave her a suspicious look as he replied, "You had better not be trying to make me feel better by doing a little storytelling."

"Nope, I have seen him checking you out with my own eyes," Cordy answered, wondering how his boss had missed the young man. But then again, his interest had been in a different blonde hunk of male. "I think you should get your head out of your ass, no pun intended, and check out the dirty blonde geek that's one of the writers of the show."

Lorne took a moment to try and put a face and name to her vague description. He ran the writers through his head and came to a stop when he came to Andrew Wells. He stared at his assistant as asked in a serious voice, "Are you talking about Andrew?"

"Give that boy a cookie," Cordy said as she raised her hands up in a goal position. "Touchdown and the two point conversion for the blind man."

"Hey, was otherwise moping," Lorne said in defense.

"Moping, brooding, sulking, you take your pick boss man," Cordy said, as she blew him a kiss.

"What would I do without you, cupcake?" Lorne said as he blew her a kiss.

"Hide away from the world and drink too much scotch," Cordy laughed. "By the way I need a new pair of shoes, and I would love a massage while we're on this cruise."

"Consider it done, Princess. I think I love you now more than your brother," Lorne told her.

"Well I need to find that brother and see about getting things together for tonight. I suggest you stroll around and find sexy Andrew, and see if you pick up on the pick-me-up vibes he’s been sending you stud," Cordy said as she picked up the glass of scotch taking it in the bathroom and dumping it down the sink.

Lorne smiled for the first time since finding out about the games Angel was playing on him. He would really make sure he did something wonderful for his best girl for watching his back and taking such good care of him. He got up and went to take a shower and brush his teeth. It was time he took Cordy's advice.

*******

Willow smiled as she stood on the balcony with the wind blowing through her hair. She was feeling happy, as Wes stood close behind her with his arms around her. Since he had kissed her at the turtle farm, he had been attentive and had told her they would talk when they had more privacy.

Well, they were as private as they could get as far as she was concerned as she asked, "So, care to have that private conversation now?"

Wesley leaned his chin on the top of her head and sighed softy before asking, "How do you feel about me as a person?"

Willow felt at a loss at first, wondering what he was asking when it hit her. She took her hands off the rail and placed then over his hands as she decided to tell him how she felt. "I think you are a very caring, considerate, gentle man. But I think you are asking me if I feel attracted to the man or the actor."

Wesley smiled at how intuitive she was as he replied, "Yes, exactly."

"I’ll be honest and say you are my favorite character on the show. But I know the feelings I'm having, have nothing to do with the actor, but the man that I have met on this trip," Willow explained, hoping he'd believe her.

"God, you don't know how happy that makes me," Wesley replied as he pulled her closer.

"How do you feel about me?" Willow asked him, wondering if he was as attracted to her.

"You've been on my mind since I first time I saw you in the hot tub at the hotel," Wesley whispered in her ear as if he was sharing world secrets. "You will never know how excited I was to find out you were on this cruise."

Willow giggled as she decided she would follow her own advice as she asked, "I'm willing to see where this leads if you are?"

Wesley turned her around so they were facing each other as he replied, "I'm happy to hear that as well."

Willow smiled as she tilted her head so she could see his face as she asked, "What about after the cruise?"

"Oh, I think we take each day as it comes. I've a few weeks before we start shooting and can visit Sunnydale. Once filming starts, I will have most of the weekends free," Wesley suggested, knowing he'd do anything he could to make this work.

"I can come to L.A. to visit some weekends also on days there's no school," Willow offered, letting him know she would be more than happy to do what she could to make it work as well.

"Then I think we have a plan," Wesley agreed, as he lips gently touched hers.

Willow relaxed into the intimate, opening her lips letting him deepen the kiss. She couldn't help but wonder if they were going too fast, but couldn’t find it in her to stop the kiss.

*******

"I love sunsets," Buffy sighed as she leaned back against her man. "Especially, now I have you here to share them with me."

"I think you're a romantic," Spike whispered in her ear, as he too enjoyed watching the sun turn the color of autumn leaves.

"And what if I am?" she giggled.

"Don't change, it fits you perfectly," he encouraged.

"Do you mind if I call you William when we're alone?"

"Don't mind at all, but any particular reason why?" he asked, just because he was curious.

"Because to the world you're Spike, and with me, you're William. It's like my own personal piece of you that I don't have to share with millions of women around the world," she answered, as she blushed.

They had come back to hers and Willow's room after returning to the ship. Both couples felt the need to have quality time together, to talk and get to know each other better. There wasn't much time, since the men had the cocktail party and dinner they had to attend.

Buffy turned in his arms and placed her hand gently against his cheek. "I just want you to know that I want the man, not the persona, if that makes any sense."

Spike closed his eyes to fight the unmanly tears, thinking to himself that he finally had the real deal. If she was telling the truth, he'd finally found the one person who would love all of him, including silly romantic William.

"I understand perfectly, Luv," he said before leaning down to kiss her gently on the lips.

They stood together, basking in the euphoria of new love, the setting sun glowing in the background. The kiss was bonding them, without taking it further than either wanted it to go. Both of them, realizing their need to take their relationship slow. This was something precious and yet fragile that didn't need to be rushed.

Spike was the first to break the kiss, gently panting, "I need to go and get ready, Pet. Meet me in the Casino, by the bar after dinner."

"Do I have you all to myself then?"

"No, but you can join me to watch the karaoke show tonight. I'm not judging, but I promised Giles I'd be there for him," Spike answered. "Already cleared it, so you and Red can join us."

"Sounds like fun."

"It's a guarantee, now you'll be there with me," Spike winked as he slowly stepped away from her. "I miss you already."

"Me, too."

"Pet, how can you miss yourself," he joked as he dodged her slap.

"You're a meany, you know I was talking about missing you," she giggled.

"I know, Luv," he purred as he swooped in for another quick kiss before turning toward the door. "See you soon."

"Counting the hours," she sighed.

Spike opened the door and turned to her before leaving. "Counting the seconds," he said, shutting the door before she could respond.

All he needed was to make the final arrangements for when he was going to present her with her gifts. He had to check with Fred at the customer service area and see if she'd been able to arrange everything he requested for tomorrow night.

Buffy stood, undecided if she was mad that he got the last word in, or happy he would be missing her by the seconds. "I am a terrible romantic." She smiled as she walked back out on to the balcony to finish enjoying the sunset.

*******

Angel glared at the shaggy haired man, who had promised him he could deliver what he'd asked for. He was finding it harder and harder to keep rein of his temper. He still could not believe how hard breaking Spike was becoming.

"I don't care if you get pictures of him fucking women! That is not news that shakes and breaks careers in show business. I want something that will make the fans and important people shun him," Angel growled.

"Hey, I'm just working with what I'm being givin'," Rack snorted. "I can't help it if he's not giving me the goods."

"Then make the goods."

"What?"

"You heard me, make it happen."

"And how do I do that?" Rack asked, while rolling his eyes.

"You're the photographer, you figure it out." Angel leaned toward the man, with a threatening stare. "And I mean, figure it out."

"Right, I'll see what I can do," Rack agreed, not liking the vibes he was getting from this man.

"I expect something by the end of the cruise, if you want your money or job," Angel threatened.

"Gotcha," Rack said, all the while thinking it might be time to jump ship at the next harbor.

The ship's photographer wished he could jump ship at the next harbor. However, he needed this job badly. The pay was okay, but he felt compensated with the traveling. It also didn't help that if he jumped ship, he'd have no way home.

"Don't disappoint me, I don’t handle it well," Angel chuckled as he walked away, leaving the other man wondering how he was going to deal with this situation.

Angel fisted his hands as he found himself at his door. The last thing he would accept was failing to get Spike black listed in the entertainment business. There was no way he was going to let that little Mr. Nobody take over his show. He would crush him like the little irritating bug that he was.

Rack walked to the door, wondering if he was going to receive one of the man's large fists against his flesh. He took a breath of fresh air when he managed to make it though the door unscathed. The seedy photographer left the room, wishing the prick behind him would miss a step one night and find himself floating face down in the ocean. He was sure no one would miss the arrogant bastard. Some, he imagined, would even dance at the man's wake singing, "Ding dong the wicked bastard's dead."

*******

Colin knocked on the door to the one man that could help him break Angel. He hoped the man would help him teach the arrogant bastard, O' Conner, a few hard, but valuable lessons.

"Hey, Colin, I was wondering when you'd stop by," Robert welcomed Darla's husband with a relaxed smile.

"Good to see you, Bobby. How's life been treating you?"

"Great, come on in," Robert motioned him into the room. "So, what brings you looking for me?"

"You catch on pretty quick."

"I bet it has something to do with the shit Angel is stirring up."

Colin chuckled. "I figured you knew something was up."

"Yeah, they forget I have eyes in the back of my head and I know and see all," Robert snorted. "I really hate to say this, and please don't repeat it- I hate Angel! I just wish I could just fire his ass on the spot and be done with him. The damn son of a bitch has the best agent in the business."

"Yeah, I know what you mean."

"Don't get me wrong, I don't know all the particulars, but I'm working on finding out what the hell he's been up to," Robert mentioned, his tone hinting he was hoping Masters was going to enlighten him more.

"Robert, have a seat. I think it's time you and me hand a little talk." Colin winked, ready to tell the man everything he knew so far.

"Something tells me I'm not going to like what I'm about to hear."

"I'm afraid, you're right," Colin answered as he sat and caught the man up on things that were happening around him.

"Shit! He's been a busy little beaver," Robert replied, having heard what Colin knew, figuring there was more that had happened prior to Master's arrival as well.

Spike's conduct the other night with the drinking, had alerted him something was wrong. Then, noticing Angel's reaction to it, and the gloating look on his face the rest of the night, he was sure O' Conner had something to do with it. Now hearing Colin's story, he would bet his last dollar Angel had everything to do with Crawford's behavior.

He would have to have a nice chat with Giles. If anyone knew and would tell him what the hell was going on, it would be Rupert. He knew the man had no love for Angel, but was professional enough to give facts and not emotional.

"Do we bring Noel into this?" Colin asked, knowing the answer would be no.

"Hell no!" Robert exclaimed. "The last thing I need is getting the money man wondering if the show is still a good investment. I think I can handle Angel."

"Really?"

"I can't believe his behavior, or maybe I can. You see, his contract is up at the end of this season. The working plan is to kill his character off this season as the cliffhanger, with a who-done-it theme. I'm tired of working with his whiney ass, always thinking he deserves more than what he does. The numbers show he’s not as popular anymore. In fact, Wesley is bringing in more fan mail and interest than he is. Spike is our star and he will be getting billed that way next season," Robert explained. "Just don't tell anyone this little bit of information."

"Tall, dark, and broody, isn't going to take that very well."

"No, he's not, and we have a backup plan in case he tries to hold us hostage and not show up for the shoots," Robert snorted, as he leaned forward. "I'm going to ask you not to do anything right now that might bring undue publicity, please. Angel will do enough of that when he hears from his agent we do not intend to renew his contract. It was something we all decided would be best to tell him after the cruise.

"I think I can wait until he's left the show to do my thing. They do say revenge is best served cold."

"Remind me to do everything I can to stay on your good side."

"As long as he doesn't do anything to my family or friends I will back off for now. But if he comes near anyone who is dear to me, and that includes Spike, he will pay," Colin warned his wife's boss.

"I will see to it personally that he backs off. Let me make a few calls and talk to a few people first."

"I can do that, for now,” Colin compromised.

"So, do you have any plans next week?"

"Not that I'm aware of. I’ll have to double check with Darla. Why?"

"Maybe you guys can come over for dinner one night."

"I’ll ask Darla which night will be good, and get back to you."

"I promise, Colin, I will take care of Angel."

"I trust you. And if you find your hands tied, let me know. I promise it won't hurt you or the show in any way."

"I can handle Angel. I do hold a few cards yet to be played," Robert answered, knowing he was going to have to call O'Conner's agent, Quentin Travers, and make him aware of his client's misdeeds.

"Great! Well I had better get going. I don't like leaving Darla alone for very long at the moment."

"Colin, I'm really sorry," Robert apologized.

"Nothing you could have done, who would've had thought Angel was so devious?" Colin reassured his friend he did not hold him responsible for O'Conner's actions. "I will get back to you about dinner," he said as he walked out the door, needing to let the others know about the change in plans, but keeping the fact about Robert's actual plans for Angel a secret.

*******

Cordelia knew without looking, that Lindsey was trying very hard not to ask about earlier. She also knew his concern about Lorne wouldn't keep him from enquiring about what is going on. The one thing she'd never question, was McDonald's loyalty toward their boss. Lorne was like family to both of them.

"Cordy, are you going to tell me what's going on?" Lindsey asked, making her smile that he lasted longer than she thought he would

"Sorry, but I can't. Not my story to tell," she replied as she counted how many people where going to sing tonight. "Great catchy title to tonight's main event, I really like it."

"Hey, I come up with some good ideas sometimes," Lindsey answered, knowing she was trying to change the subject. "Should I be worried? Can you at least tell me that?"

"Maybe, but I'll let you know if he needs your help," Cordy reassured him, and then tried to change the subject. "Calling the karaoke tonight, 'Media's Idol', was a great idea and catchy." Cordy winked. "Too bad I couldn't be Paula to your Simon," she teased.

Lindsey snorted. "She wants him so bad, I just know it," Lindsey snorted. "I hope you both know I wouldn't do anything to hurt either one of you."

Cordy smacked him on the arm giving him a mocking glare. "Stop it, she is just trying to bring him out of his self absorbed shell. But I do have to agree, I think she's hot for him. I do know you'd do nothing to hurt either one of us."

"Does that mean you're hot for me?" Lindsey asked before thinking.

Cordy was dumbfounded, for the first time she didn't have a quick comeback. She'd been crushing on her co-worker for the longest time.

"Cordy?"

"Huh!"

"Are you hot for me?" Lindsey asked as he moved closer, praying she would say yes.

He fell in love with the brass, cocky, smart-ass, beauty, the moment she opened her mouth and gave him the what for. Never did he think he'd have a chance with her, feeling beneath her. No matter how many women caught his eye, the only one that he'd give his heart to was her.

"Lin, I…don't…how can I say this?"

He leaned in and kissed her, taking the chance she might just kiss him back. The moment their lips touch, she melted against him. His arms wrapped around her, pulling her closer. Any thoughts of convention, music, talent, cruise, no longer occupied their minds.

Lorne stood inside the doorway smiling thinking to himself. ‘It's about time those two realized they were meant to be together. Now if only my love life would find a life.’

*******

Jenny sat watching her husband, their girls, and Xander playing tag. Today had been a marvelous day. The tour was great, and the Island beautiful. Seeing the look of awe on her daughters' faces, as they took in the sights, was breathtaking. Spending time with family and friends, while watching Wes and Spike, as they wooed the women in their lives had been delightful and heartwarming.

"You have a wonderful family."

"Thank you."

"I want one, too, one day," Anya said with a wistful look on her face.

"I think you and Xander will make wonderful parents."

"We've decided to start trying to make a baby."

"Oh, that is such great news!" Jenny said sincerely, believing it would be a wonderful thing to see the Harris' raising a baby.

"I think Spike is in love," Anya snickered. "I think he has it bad."

Jenny giggled. "You noticed, did you?"

"I like her, too. So much better then that plastic Barbie wanna be," Anya snorted. "I just don't see what he ever saw in that woman."

"I don't either, but thank God he woke up and saw the light," Jenny agreed, it was not the first time they'd discussed what Spike had seen in Harmony. "I really like Buffy, a lot. So do the girls."

"So, is Wes getting a little serious about Buffy's friend?" Anya asked.

"I do believe so," Jenny answered. "She fits him."

"All I know is that I've not see that look in Wes’ eyes before."

Jenny turned to look at Anya and asked, "What look is that?"

Anya winked as she replied, "Like he could eat her right up."

They both laughed as they avoided the one thing they knew they couldn't talk about here. Colin, on the insistence of Spike, had told Giles and Jenny his plans. The only ones left to tell were Wesley and Willow, who they would tell later tonight after dinner. Right now, he should be talking to Robert.

*******

Ethan rolled off the warm body beneath him, trying to catch his breath. He almost messed it all up, for he'd almost called her by the wrong name. Ever since Buffy's replacement had shown up in the office with her new hair color, all he could think about was his vacationing secretary.

"Oh, Baby! That was fantastic," Connie hummed, wondering if reality or fantasy had made him perform so wild.

"I'm glad you enjoyed it," he purred, wishing she wouldn't talk, for her voice was nothing like his Buffy's.

"I more than enjoyed it. Never had anyone make me come like that before," she said as she stretched her body, trying to entice him to come back for more.

Ethan tilted his head as he admired what she was offering. Thinking to himself, if she was offering- who was he to turn her down? They'd started sleeping together two days ago, every time he secretly pretended she was his Buffy. He'd known he would have to have the real thing once she got home.

He did everything he could not to think of what she might be doing and with who. The last thing he needed was to hear about was another man she met while on the cruise. He would kill the man that tasted the fruit of her body. If need be, he'd make sure she forgot the experience, once he truly made her his.

"Come back to bed, lover," Connie begged, feeling as if she was the one in control when he did as she said.

*******

Harmony sat in front of her vanity smiling as she brushed her hair. "No one leaves me, no one. He will take me back and I will make him pay for it."

She looked down at the little white rectangular object, with a plus sign in the middle window, sitting on her vanity. The fact that it more than likely wasn't Spike's didn't bother her one bit. The man never missed using a condom. The plan was to get him to marry her, and then she would divorce him taking him for everything before he realized her ultimate deceit.

"Blondie Bear, you shouldn't have treated the best thing that ever happened to you, so mean." Harmony pouted in the mirror.

Angel would never make a claim for the child- that was a given. If it all worked as she planned, before the baby was six months old, she'd be single again with a nanny to raise the baby, and Spike paying all the bills.

Double-checking the ships itinerary, she planned the day the ship arrived back in port. She would be there waiting for him, all open arms. There was just no way he'd turn her away, once she told him he was going to be a father.

"Oh, Spikey, what a warm homecoming I have planned for you, baby," she giggled, as she continued to brush her hair, almost done with her one hundred strokes.

*******

Spike hummed as he waited for Buffy to show up. The cocktail party had gone smoothly. Everyone present had been very respectful. He had avoided Angel like the plague, keeping close to his friends at all times.

Dinner had been great- the lobster was perfect, and the company entertaining. One of the girls at the table was going to sing at the contest tonight. Her shyness had intrigued him, and her soft stutter made him pray she would not embarrass herself.

"Penny for your thoughts."

Spike turned and addressed the intruder of his thoughts, "I don't mean to be rude, but could you please find someone else to bother."

"Nope, I want you, blondie, and I always get what I want," Faith purred, as she stepped closer, making him step back away from her.

"Pick up the dictionary, you crazy bint, you seem to have difficulty with the meaning of that one-syllable word. Only two letters, so you shouldn't have any problem spelling it. N. O. Spells no."

"No one ever tells me no," Faith smiled, seductively as she started to step forward.

"There's a first time everything, and today seems to be your day."

Faith turned toward the female voice interrupting her play for boy wonder here. "Excuse me, we're talking here."

"One problem with that is I don't want you talking to him, let alone sharing air with him," Buffy replied, as she stood with her arms across her chest and a determined look on her face. "And I think he told you somewhat politely to mosey along. So make like a tree and leave."

"You aren't woman enough for a man like him. I know girls like you, all kiss and no follow through. Try and nab the man with the promise of something after the ring," Faith snorted. "Me? I know what a man wants, and I'm not afraid to give it."

Before Spike could shoot the girl down, Buffy's sarcastic reply made him smile, "Yeah, but some men don't want what other men have sampled, and you seem like the sampler kind of girl to me."

"Bitch!" Faith growled, as she stepped toward the petite blonde woman.

Spike reacted quickly by stepping around Faith and placing himself between the brunette woman and his girl. "You need to leave me alone. I'm not interested in someone else's leavings. If you approach me again I will take it up with the convention people and the ship's security. Now leave and don't bother me or my girl here again."

"Your loss." Faith snorted as she walked away.

"No loss there," he replied as he turned toward his girl and smiled. "Missed you."

Buffy returned the smile as she replied, "Missed you too."

"After the contest, can I take you dancing?"

"Sounds like a plan."

"Then let's go find the others," he said, making her heart flutter when he put his arm around her shoulder as they walked together.

"Will, do you get a lot of women like her accosting you like that?" Buffy asked, hoping she didn't make him mad or uncomfortable with her question.

"Never, quite that bold. She's been the exception to a few things so far this week. She's the kind of fan that gives fans a bad name," he answered truthfully. "Don't pay her a bit of mind, Pet."

"I have more questions, but now is not the time for them."

Spike pulled her close, leaning down and kissing the top of her head before saying, "You can ask me anything you wish. I’ll tell you anything you want to know."

"Same here," she sighed as she leaned against him as they continued to walk.

"Maybe we can go swimming again instead of dancing? You can ask me anything you want while we relax together," Spike suggested.

Buffy nodded her head yes, saying, "I would love that."

"Then it's settled." He grinned, leading her into the elevator.

*******

Wesley waited at the door of the Skywalkers Night Club, where they were holding the karaoke contest tonight. He was early, wanting to be there when Willow arrived. Feeling nervous, he placed his hands in his front pants pockets, as he nodded to the fans who greeted him as they passed.

He noticed her right away, admiring her tight fitting black pants with the emerald green halter. She wore her hair in a loose bun, showing off her elegant neck, which adorned a modest little gold locket in the shape of a heart. She looked lovely and he couldn't wait to have her enter the club on his arm.

Willow felt nervous, wondering if she overdressed. The look on his face told her no, the moment their eyes met. He looked handsome in his dark pants and midnight blue button-up shirt. It really brought out the blue in his eyes.

"Hi!"

"Hello, you look fantastic," he whispered as he gently kissed her lips.

"Thank you, you don't look so bad yourself," she replied, feeling her face grown warm, knowing she was blushing.

"What would you like to do after the contest?" he asked as he slipped his arm around her and guided her in to the club.

"Go somewhere we can just sit and talk some more, maybe go dancing," she offered, as she let her arm wrap around his waist.

"I have to confess I'm not a very good dancer," he chuckled.

"Even slow dancing?" she asked with a teasing grin.

"Could be, I just needed the right partner," he shrugged, knowing he'd dance with her anytime she asked.

"We can test that theory later," she replied, as they joined the others at the bar.

"Hey, Percy!" Spike greeted his best friend. "Ready to play judge and jury?"

"I, for one, should not have been given this task. My musical talents are in the area of buying other people's products I enjoy listening too," Wes sighed.

"Stick with Giles, he won't lead you astray," Spike teased.

"Yes, he can sing," Wesley agreed.

"Dance too, and look good in women's unmentionables," Spike chuckled. "He does a great Frankie, and wears his fishnet stockings with flair."

"Are you talking about my husband, Spike?" Jenny asked.

"Anyone else here fit the bill of man in heels and boa?" Spike winked, watching as Jenny tried not to laugh.

"May I get everyone something to drink?" Giles calmly asked, trying to change the subject. Some of the fans had approached him earlier asking if he'd sing 'Time Warp', for them.

Everyone gave the bartender their drink orders, when Willow asked, "What does everyone have planned for tomorrow?"

"We have free day tomorrow and I plan on spending the entire time with my family." Giles winked at his wife. He looked over to see the girls close to where they had the karaoke machine set up.

"Maybe the four of us could go sightseeing, if you'd be interested?" Wesley asked the others.

"Sounds great to me, what about you two?" Willow turned to Spike and Buffy.

Buffy nodded her head yes, and then Spike turned and answered, "We're in."

"Great, how about we meet for breakfast at seven?" Willow suggested. "I would love to snorkel at some point. I hear it's great in Cozumel."

"I can for a short period, as long as I don't really expose myself to the sun too much," Spike reminded them of his one limitation.

"We could go first thing in the morning before it gets to hot," Buffy offered.

"We are taking the girls to swim with the dolphins," Jenny added.

"Oh, too rich for us," Willow sighed.

"I always wanted to swim with Flipper." Buffy smiled, wishing they could do that, but agreed with Willow, it was too expensive for them.

"Consider it done, we will join you if you don't mind," Spike asked, knowing he would make this trip as enjoyable for Buffy as he could.

"Spike, I can't afford it," Buffy tried to explain.

"Baby, I can't do it, but I can live vicariously through you," Spike winked. "I'll be the video man."

"Neither can I," Willow explained.

"Please let us do this for both of you," Wesley pleaded.

Jenny could see both women about to object when she suggested, "How about they split the cost with you?"

Willow and Buffy looked at each other and then back at their dates. Both realized, Jenny had given them a way to compromise and make everyone happy.

"Okay!" They both said at the same time.

"Great that's settled then." Spike chuckled, giving Jenny a wink and a smile of gratitude.

"Excuse the interruption, but I was wondering if I can have the judges come with me," Cordy said, hoping to get the contest started on time.

"Onward with the both of you, make us proud," Spike teased.

"Right, then, lead the way," Giles answered, giving his wife a warm kiss before leaving.

"Wish me luck," Wesley sighed, as he leaned in to kiss Willow's cheek.

"Good luck," Willow giggled.

*******

Robert approached Angel's room with a feeling of anger and dread. Quentin had promised he'd do what he could to control his client, but it would be difficult being thousands of miles away.

Silver knocked on the door, prepared for the confrontation ahead. He knew it mostly likely was going to get ugly. But, he had to do something, for he knew Colin Masters was a man of his word. He would take Angel down in a heartbeat, and right now that wouldn't be good for business.

Angel answered the door, wondering who'd be paying him a visit. "Hey, Robert. Was just getting ready to leave for the contest."

Robert knew it was a lie, but decided not to call the man on it. "Angel, do you have a minute, I have something I want to run past you."

"Sure, come on in," Angel smiled, thinking it was a friendly visit, maybe to talk about the new contract.

Robert entered, hoping they'd have a nice polite conversation, warning the bastard to stop causing trouble. He knew it was wishful thinking, but a man could dream. He just wish there was someone he'd trust to have come with him, since he was uncomfortable meeting with the jackass by himself.

"Angel, we need to talk."

"I'm all ears."

"I know what you've been doing the last couple of days to Spike. I'm here to ask you to stop."

Angel pretended to be surprised, but his anger was real as he replied, "Excuse me? What is that weasel saying I'm supposed to have done to him?"

"He's not the one complaining," Robert answered, knowing now he'd have to step carefully around the man.

"I haven't done anything to Spike," Angel lied.

"Please, don't treat me like I'm stupid," Robert confronted him. "Do you really think I'm so oblivious to what goes on around me? I have two perfectly working eyes, and they've seen a lot in the years I've lived. So don't try and play me, it won't work."

"Fine, believe what you want to believe," Angel growled.

"I will."

"So what's next?" Angel asked, wondering if Spike had shown their boss the tape.

"I don't know all the particulars, and will leave the matter be for now, if you promise to leave Spike and the others alone," Robert offered. "But if you don't, then it will be me you are dealing with, and it won't be pretty. I've already put a call to Quent, and he's fully aware."

"Fine! I will leave him alone, and I expect an apology when you find out I've done nothing wrong," Angel replied, knowing he must not have been shown the tape or Robert would've had said something about it.

"If I find that I'm wrong, and we both know I won't, and then I will apologize," Robert countered, sorry now that he'd not been firmer with the man over the years.

"Well if that is all, I need to make an appearance at the contest," Angel said, using it as an excuse to have Silver leave his room.

"Just keep in mind what we've discussed," Robert reminded him, before walking toward the door. "I'm not dumb Angel and I find it very insulting you seem to think I am."

Angel fumed as he watched the other man open the door and leave. He vowed he'd find out who went crying to Robert and they would pay. The last place he wanted to be was in a room with whoever the coward was, but he'd said he was making an appearance, and so he shall.

*******

Spike swayed to the music with his girl in his arms. So far, he felt sorry for the judges, since everyone was very talented and it was going to be difficult to chose a winner. He noticed the next contestant up was the young woman from his dinner table, Tara McCay.

"She was at my table tonight, sweet girl," Spike whispered in Buffy's ear. "Shy bird with a touch of a stutter when she talks."

The young woman stood feeling nervous as she closed her eyes waiting for her intro. The words she knew by heart having sung the song with her mother growing up.

“Desmond has a barrow in the market place
Molly is the singer in a band
Desmond says to Molly – girl I like your face
And Molly says this as she takes him by the hand.

Obladi oblada life goes on the bra
Lala how the life goes on
Obladi oblada life goes on the bra
Lala how the life goes on

Desmond takes a trolly to the jeweler's stores
Buys a twenty carat golden ring
Takes it back to Molly waiting at the door
And as he gives it to her she begins to sing

Obladi oblada life goes on the bra
Lala how the life goes on
Obladi oblada life goes on the bra
Lala how the life goes on

In a couple of years they have built
A homes sweet home
With a couple of kids running in the yard
Of Desmond and Molly Jones
Happy ever after in the market place
Desmond lets the children lend a hand
Molly stays at home and does her pretty face
And in the evening she's a singer with the band


Obladi oblada life goes on the bra
Lala how the life goes on
Obladi oblada life goes on the bra
Lala how the life goes on

And if you want some fun – take Obladiblada.”

Spike watched Tara's transformation with awe. She went from the shy young girl to a confident musically talented woman before his eyes. He knew she could go places with that voice, and wondered if Giles and Wesley thought the same.

"Earth to William," Buffy said, before shaking him to get his attention, feeling jealous at the attention he was giving the woman who'd just finished singing.

Spike shook himself back to awareness as he smiled down at his girl. "Sorry, Kitten, just lost myself in the music."

"Music or the girl?" she asked, feeling insecure about his feelings concerning her.

Spike noticed Buffy was jealous and it made him smile as he leaned down to whisper, "There is only one woman for me, and that's you. She just took me by surprise at the change in her. I will have to introduce you, so you see what I mean. She's good, the best performer so far."

"I'm sorry I doubted you."

"Don't be, baby. We’re still learning about each other," Spike reassured her, leaning his forehead against hers. "Care to go for that swim now?"

"I would love to."

"Then let's tell Red and Jenny we're going and head out."

"Spike?"

"Yeah, baby."

"I love you."

"Let's get out of here, sweet Buffy, so I can kiss you right and proper," Spike purred as he guided her over toward Willow and Jenny so they could say their goodnights.

*******

Colin sat back and watched Angel lurking in the dark corner, watching Spike and Buffy. He felt a chill shoot up his spine, noticing how O'Conner continued to stare at the couple, ignoring everything going on around him.

His instinct told him Robert had had his talk with the spoiled brat. It pissed him off that the arrogant asshole sulking in the corner, was ruining the cruise for him. The last thing he wanted was worrying about what the bastard was going to do next. He knew he promised Silver he wouldn't take matters in his own hands just yet. It bothered him terribly that he might not be able to keep that promise.

Masters watched as Spike led Buffy out of the club, laughing and flirting. When he turned back to where Angel had been, the man was no longer there. Looking around the club, O'Conner was no longer in sight. He stood, cursing under his breath, to go and make sure he wasn't following Crawford and his woman. Darla was acting as one of the judges, so he knew she was safe.

*******

"This feels so nice," Buffy sighed as she settled between his legs, with her back against his chest as they sat on the steps leading down into the pool.

"Yeah, it does," Spike agreed, enjoying their time together. The dark of night, giving them a false sense of privacy.

"I wish we could do this every night."

The water felt just right as it softly lapped around them, her voice soft and relaxed.

"We can, all we have to do is build us an indoor heated pool," he suggested, smiling to himself as his girl snuggled closer.

"Hmm, would cost too much money."

"We might find a house with one already built in," he teased, having met the first woman who worried about how much something cost, not relating the price with status, but because it was the sensible thing.

"Again, too much money."

Spike chuckled. "Then we can find a place with a nice big hot tub."

"Okay, sounds good, I can live with that," Buffy giggled, enjoying how easy it was to flirt with him.

"So, ask me anything," Spike offered, deciding to take the bull by the horns and get it over with, so they could enjoy the rest of their time together.

Buffy tensed up, wondering how to ask what she wanted to ask. "I'm afraid you might think I’m being silly."

"Before you, I only loved two women, and they both used me. Dru, my ex, cheated on me with Angel. She ended up pregnant, not knowing who the father was. Tried to pass it off as mine…that is- until Angel threatened her with the part in the series. She had the abortion, letting me believe I was the baby's father, only to catch her and Angel in the act, in our bed," Spike decided to tell her everything.

"That bitch!" Buffy practically yelled. "How dare she, oh, I hope I never meet her in person. I will scratch her eyes out, pull her hair until she screams, and break her nose."

"I feel better now, knowing you'll protect me," Spike tried not to laugh.

"And Harmony?" she asked, wanting to know if he still harbored any feeling for his recent ex-girlfriend.

"Not one of the two. She was my first serious relationship after Dru. And what I mean by serious, she was the one that happened to be around when I sobered up, and stopped messing around with one-night-stands. Also, made it believable when I didn't want other women's attention. My first love, and heartbreak, belongs to a bint named Cecily." Spike felt the need to tell her everything, keeping no secrets.

"So, Angel's been trying to hurt you for a very long time?" Buffy asked, as her hands entwined with his as they treaded through the water.

"I never thought about it until now. I just thought that he wanted Dru, never thinking it was about me. Well, not until the fucking tape that is." Spike closed his eyes, waiting for her to ask.

"What tape?"

"The one someone left in my room a few nights ago," Spike answered, his voice sounding sad.

"What was on it?"

"Angel not only slept with Dru, but with Harmony," he explained, cringing at the thought of a copy of that tape getting out.

"That bastard! So he was playing with me, to get back at you?" Buffy's voice was furious.

"Yeah, it would seem." Spike then continued, "There was talk about my not being man enough and a few other derogatory statements about me said.

"I should have pushed him overboard the other day when he came on to me," Buffy fumed, realizing too late, she let the cat out of the bad, and not the way she had wanted. "I just might if he gets in my path again."

"Came on to you?" Spike asked, wondering if she was talking about the other day in the hallway, or since then.

"It was one of the things I was going to tell you," her voice squeaked a bit, causing him to become suspicious.

"What?" Spike let go of her hands and wrapped his arms around her, pulling her closer to him.

"He made a pass at me and I blew him off and he didn't like it the other day. A member of the ship's crew was there, and nothing bad happened." Buffy turned in the water, coming to kneel before him. "William, you have to talk to someone about Angel, he's starting to scare me."

"I know baby, and I will, I promise. Let me talk it over with Wesley and Giles, first. See if they have an idea how to do this without anyone getting hurt. Baby, you should have told me sooner." Spike sounded upset, she could feel his body tensing.

"I'm sorry, but like you said, we are both learning. I'm used to taking care of myself, but I will be more careful and tell you when things happen in the future, sooner," Buffy reminded him, as she wrapped her arms around his neck.

"It would kill me if anything happened to you because of me," he stressed.

"Same here. Please talk to someone concerning Angel," she begged.

"I will, I promise," Spike said as he gently captured her lips with his.

"Oh, better and better," she sighed as she broke the kiss, smiling.

"Buffy, do you have any plans for tomorrow night?"

"No," she answered noticing he was looking rather nervous. "Why?"

"I was wondering if we could do something special."

"What would you like to do?" she asked.

"A surprise, so I can't really tell you," he looked sheepishly at her as he answered.

"Is it of the good surprise kind?" she teased.

"It's of the best kind, honest," Spike chuckled as he used his finger to cross his heart. "Cross my heart, baby."

"Okay, pick me up after dinner, then?" she asked as she leaned down and kissed the area of his chest that housed his heart. "I trust your heart."

"It's a date," Spike answered as he stood, helping her up with him. "I think it's time to get you home, Cinderella."

"Oh, I love it when you get all royal on me, my Prince," she said, as he sat her on her feet, before leading her out of the pool.

*******

Colin noticed Angel was about to follow the blonde couple dressed in their swimwear. Thinking quickly he called hurried to intercept. The last thing he wanted was the bastard spying on them.

"Angel, might I have a moment of you time?" Colin said, loud enough that only O'Conner heard him.

Angel felt a rush of anger course through his body, hearing Darla's husband call his name. At first he figured Darla had not told her other half of their association, since the man had not confronted him. But now he was suspicious, since Colin never would seek him out in the past.

"Masters, what can I do for you?" Angel asked as he turned with a deceiving smile on his face.

"Was wondering if I could have a moment of you time and discuss a business proposition," Colin lied, knowing he'd never hire or recommend this man to any one.

"Business, sounds interesting." Angel kept calm, cursing the man's timing. He wanted to follow Spike and Buffy and see if he could get some answers.

"I have a client that is looking for a spokesperson and he listed you as a few on his top list," Colin fabricated easily, since he knew he was about to play a master of deception.

"I have competition? Should I even be interested?" Angle snorted.

"Well, come on, man. We both know you can't put your money all on one person, with things that can happen. You never know if you'd be available, or it's something that's not your cup of tea," Colin explained, reminding himself to call Luke and fill him in on the lies he'd need the man to say, if need be.

"True, so is this something we need to discuss now?" Angel tried to politely change the discussion to another time.

"Not sure if we'd get another chance, with working around your schedule and time I'd like to spend with my wife. But I understand," Colin sighed. "I know Luke has feelers out with wanting to gear the commercial around whoever it is that he hires."

"Then let's go have a drink and talk about it," Angel answered, knowing it would be something good for his career if the product was popular.

"Great, let's go some where it's quieter, so we can really talk," Colin said, hoping he'd be able to keep his true feelings about the man to himself, for now.

Angel nodded, realizing Darla's sin he'd be able to use against her later on down the road. Not realizing the man beside him was thinking of recruiting the others aid in keeping him as for away from Spike and Buffy as he could.

*******

"Did you know that Chankanaab means small sea?" Ally asked the group sitting around her at the breakfast table, as she read the parks brochure.

"Isn't that the place we're going this morning to swim with the dolphins?" Sara asked, fighting back a yawn.

"Yes, it is," Giles answered fighting back a yawn of his own, since he and his oldest daughter were really not very good morning people.

"Chankanaab Parque Natural is a saltwater lagoon that is a wildlife sanctuary, botanical garden, and archaeological park. There's underwater caves, off shore reefs, a protected bay, and a sunken ship. I wished I knew how to dive?" Ally sighed.

"It sounds fascinating," Wesley said, wishing he too knew how to dive. "But, it still sounds like a great place to snorkel."

"Yeah, I want to see a shark," Sara's voice was excited. "From like far away and not of the man-eating kind, or all full of fishy goodness and not looking for dessert."

"Don't they also have some Maya ruin reproductions there too?" Willow asked.

Ally looked further at the brochure and read, "Uh-huh, also some Toltec, Mexican, and Maya statues and some stone carvings."

"How about the dolphin exhibit?" Buffy asked feeling excited about swimming with them.

"We offer a one hour program, as long as you can swim. You're given 30 minutes of education and instructions concerning swimming with them. After your instructional tour, you have 30 minutes in the water interacting with these magnificent creatures. You even can have a videotape professionally done to take your memories home. That is so cool." Ally was practically jumping in her seat as she read more, "Oh, no tanning lotions of any kind allowed, it's harmful to the marine life."

Spike was sorry he wouldn't be able to share this experience with them, but knew a way he could compensate. "All of you can swim and I will provide the amateur video."

"Aren't you going to swim with us?" Sara asked, disappointed.

"Sorry, sweets…no tanning lotion allowed, I'd burn to a crisp." He shrugged, "Don't worry, I will live through all of you vicariously."

"How about you and me go exploring in the garden instead?" Buffy suggested, not wanting to leave him alone for that hour.

"After I watch you romp with flipper and his gang of mammals," Spike reassured her. "Come on, Pet, I want you to have fun. Watching you and the girls will be a treat, honest."

"Are you sure?" Buffy needed to make sure he was truly okay with them leaving him alone on shore.

Spike smiled as he leaned in to give her a quick kiss. "Yeah, Kitten, perfect. I’ll get to watch my favorite girls have the time of their lives. We can always come back and do it again one day, when I don't have to play an undead guy."

Giles was the one to get things moving, "Well, let’s get going, then. The park opens at eight and closes at five. We have to be back on the ship by six."

"Then off we go," Wesley agreed as they assembled their things together to leave.

"What do you and Buffy plan on doing while we snorkel after the dolphins?" Wesley asked, as they left the dinning room.

"I'm thinking about checking out the botanical garden and then head back over to that one museum, 'Museo de la Isla de Cozumel'. I wonder if Jacques-Ives Cousteau had not done his documentary here, who would've put Cozumel on the tourist maps? I would love to be able to dive and see the Jesus statue he placed underwater," Spike answered, with a few wishes of his own.

"Like you said, we can come back again," Wesley reminded him.

"I wouldn't mind it," Willow agreed watching Buffy nodding her head yes, as well.

*******

Lorne stretched as he rolled out of bed, smiling. Thinking of what he had accomplished last night he felt like a new man. Soon he'd have Angel right where he wanted the bastard. No one played him for a fool, and get away with it.

He smiled as he thought about whom he was having breakfast with this morning. Cordy and a young woman by the name of Anya introduced him to one Andrew Wells last night. They'd talked for awhile, and made plans to have breakfast and spend the day together.

*******

Rack admired the pictures as they developed. He knew the ones with Spike and his little honey would bring him some honest money from a few rag tags. Already two of them had e-mailed saying they were interested in the pictures.

The other set of pictures were a bit more personal and the money from them would be illegal. The man had told him to make things happen, so he did. He made things happen in a big way that was, without a doubt, going to bring him some money of the best kind.

"Oh, man! These are going to make you cry, Mr. O'Conner. And I can't wait." Rack chuckled as he placed the pictures out where they would dry. "I hope you are ready for this."

*******

Spike stood out of the direct sunlight over by the men taking the videos watching everyone play in the water. Both he and Wes had already purchased one for each of them and for Buffy and Willow, as well.

Fred told him that morning that everything was ready for tonight. He planned to wine and dessert his girl, since he very well couldn't dine her. Both Buffy's ring and his gift for her sat secure in the ships safe, compliments of the captain. He didn't want to take any chances, since someone had dropped the video tape in his room with ease.

For the first time he really hated his job. He wanted so much to be there enjoying this moment with Buffy. He put up with the constant dying of his hair, and considered it a small sacrifice for the part he was playing. This, however, was pure torture.

Buffy enjoyed herself, feeling the power exuding from this magnificent creature as he pulled her through the water, leaving her in awe. She fell in love with the dolphins from the beginning of the program. They seemed to like it when you petted them, and when they talked it sounded just like they were laughing.

The only thing that darkened her experience was the fact William was not here to enjoy it with her. At times she noticed he seemed happy to be on the outside watching, where other times he seemed lonely and angry. She would make sure to make it up to him while they went sightseeing after this.

She turned toward him and threw him a kiss and waved at him, her heart lurched when she watched his smile grow larger. She had a surprise for him tonight as well, one that scared the hell out of her and excited her at the same time. Tonight she would show him how much she does love him, not only in words but also in deed.

*******

Angel rolled over in his bed to look at the clock. He couldn't believe it was almost noon. His mouth was extremely dry and his head felt like he was suffering from a bad hangover. He didn't drink a lot the night before. In fact- he hardly drank at all.

Throwing back the bedcovers, he realized he was nude, and couldn't remember even going to bed last night. He looked over and noticed his clothes scattered around the room and became worried. When he first stood up, he felt dizzy and had to sit back down, becoming anxious and worried he could not remember how he got back to his room.

"What the fuck happened last night?" he asked as he looked to see if anything was out of place. "Last thing I remember was talking with Colin and then grabbing a drink at the bar after the man left," he mumbled to himself.

Inspecting his body, he didn't notice anything unusual or any signs of abuse. He tried to remember if there had been anyone, he knew standing around the bar. Just the bartender and a young man at the end of the bar were the only ones he remembered seeing.

He tried again to stand, sighing in relief when no bout of dizziness hit him this time. Quickly he walked over to gather his clothes to see if everything was there. Pulling out his wallet, he let out the breath he didn't realize at first he was holding, as he found everything to be in order. His money was still in his back pocket.

Looking around he noticed his room key on the bedside table. This struck him as being odd, raising his suspicions that something just wasn't right about all of this. A feeling of dread came over him realizing someone was playing with his head. The first person who came to mind was Spike, and thoughts of it being anyone else fled his thoughts.

"The bastard is going to pay for this. I bet he's been playing me all this time. Him and that bitch girlfriend of his. Well, I’ll show them a thing or two. No one gets the best of Angel O'Conner."

Angel made his way over and gathered his things before heading to take a shower. He was going to enjoy the day in Cozumel, and then he would begin to plan his revenge. All promises he made to his agent and Robert flew out the window. As far as he was concerned, Spike just declared war.

*******

Wesley watched as Willow put her mouthpiece in her mouth, preparing to snorkel. The morning they spent with the others, swimming with the Dolphins had been wonderful. Her laugher had been infectious, making him laugh right along with her.

The only downfall had been the couple of glimpses of Spike standing there in the shadows at times, out of the sun's rays. The way Buffy would take time to wave and throw kisses at his friend, endeared her to him.

For the first time in a very long time, he was enjoying the company of the woman he was spending time with, since before things started to go bad with Lilah. No obligation, not together for show, and not just to make the public happy that he was seeing someone. He was spending time with someone he wanted to know everything about, and to share things about himself, as well.

"Wes, come look at this!" Willow yelled, breaking his concentration. "It looks like something from prehistoric times."

Wesley swam over and joined her, placing his mouthpiece in taking a deep breath before submerging his head underwater to see the odd looking eel-like creature sticking his head out of the reef. It looked like something from the caveman days with its beady eyes and protruding jaw with the jagged teeth.

He fell in love, once his eyes adjusted and he was able to see the colored pieces of the reef and the variety of life forms present. He followed Willow as they swam, seeing different things as they moved along. The coral was amazing and he was sure if they dived, it would be even more beautiful.

Willow couldn't believe what an awesome day she was having. The more time she spent with Wesley, the more she felt like she'd known him all her life. It was as if she knew what he was thinking, without having to ask. She knew when he was worried about Spike, even without having to ask.

Even now, she knew he was thinking about her and their relationship, and feeling good about it. She waved for him to join her up top as she brought her head above water, removing her mask just when he emerged.

Swimming over to tread before him she smiled. "Wesley, I have to tell you something."

Wes quickly removed his mask and replied, "I have something I need to tell you, as well."

"I think I'm falling in love with you," she said, hoping she wasn't rushing or embarrassing him.

Wesley's grin lit up his face as he replied, "I feel the same way."

Willow giggled. "I know, weird place to say it."

"No, perfect place, I think. It's quiet, serene, beautiful, and we're alone," he replied, wanting nothing more than to kiss her.

She knew he wanted to kiss her. Deciding she'd kiss him as she moved closer and gently wrapped her arms around his neck saying, “I'm going to kiss you, so just relax."

Wesley met her lips as they briefly explored the newness of being a couple. As far as either was concerned, it didn't last long enough, but was enough to satisfy them until they could get back to land.

"Let's see what more we can find here," Willow sighed, as she moved back slightly, not wanting to push his stamina too far along.

"Lead the way, my lady," he said, with a smile that reached his eyes, telling her he really did think of her as his lady.

*******

Buffy breathed in the mixture of all the different flowers around them. The trees all had a colorful bloom about the in pinks and yellows. It was so serene, the only sounds she could hear was the natural call of the wildlife that belonged here. No cars engine running in the background, no horns blowing, no people yelling, and no dogs barking.

"It's so peaceful here," she whispered, afraid to disturb the magic of this place.

Spike leaned down and said quietly, "You're afraid even the sound of your voice will break the spell."

Buffy nodded her head as she snuggled closer to his side, feeling the connection between them strengthen. Words between them, they no longer needed, as they continued to enjoy the atmosphere of the garden and their time together. The more time she spent with William, the more she realized she had nothing to be afraid of any more.

Spike felt the poet he once was coming back to life. The beauty of both her and the garden had his head ringing with verse. Her eyes were like the greenery around them and her hair the color of the tree blossoms. He wanted to keep her here surrounded by the splendor this place had to offer.

Neither noticed the petite figure following them at a safe distance, watching as they interacted with each other. She felt jealous of the way they seemed to be with each other. Never had she seen him so connected with anyone, like he appeared to be right now.

*******

"So did you find any scary little monsters on your ocean adventure?" Spike teased the other couple as he ate his meal of crab cakes and shrimp stir-fry.

Willow giggled as she told them, "There was this eel- I'm sure it was a girl, she chased Wesley for a few seconds. But I took care of it and told her who he belonged to."

"Here I thought those slippery types only went for Peaches," Spike snorted.

"Well, what can I say, I have charisma." Wesley said with a silly grin on his face.

"Wesley, the eel charmer," Buffy teased, causing everyone present to laugh.

They'd meet up at Carlos and Charlie’s for a late lunch, a very wild restaurant bar close to their port. The music was loud and everyone dancing like crazy. Some of the faces Wesley and Spike recognized from the convention as they waved hello.

People were dancing on the tabletops, with beer bongs and other drinking games in progress. Spike felt the need to hold his girl in his arms and move to the music, as he stood up and pulled her into his arms.

"Dance with me."

Buffy felt the heat of his gaze as she allowed him to lead her toward the crowd of dancing maniacs. She knew he would use this to his advantage to hold her close and move seductively against her. Realizing this, she planned to use it right back at him as she molded her body to his.

Willow turned to Wesley and smiled. "Care to do the crazy dance with me?"

"Crazy dance?" he asked, wondering what she had in mind.

"You know…just let the music move ya. Like the others out there are doing," Willow explained. "No rhyme, reason, or rhythm needed."

"Well, I would say that is right up my alley," he said with a truthful ring to his voice.

"Then, let's party," Willow said as she used his hands to pull him up.

"Let’s," he said as he followed her lead and accompanied her on the dance floor.

Neither couple noticed tall, dark, brooding Angel glowering at Spike and Buffy as they danced as if they were making love. It made his blood boil to see his co-worker so happy and having fun. It was a guarantee his plans would not fail, so why had they so far? That was the million-dollar question that he was still trying to find an answer to.

"You won't win, Casper," Angel mumbled, as he took another swig of his beer. "I will win the war, I promise you that."

He turned to leave, running into someone, not paying attention to what he was doing. All he wanted to do was get out so he could clear his head, so he could plan his next move against Crawford.

The woman kept her head down, hoping he wouldn't try to look at her. The last thing she wanted was for him to recognize her. If he knew she was present, her plan wouldn't work. No one could know she was on the same ship of the man who ruined her life. The last thing she needed was to have her name added to the list of suspects for the murder of one Angel O'Conner.

She noticed Spike dancing with the blonde woman and smiled. Knowing he'd finally found what he'd been looking for, warmed her heart for a few seconds. She always loved him, for as long as she could remember, Spike was special. Just not special enough for her to forget the monster who made her what she was today.

"But you will pay for that, my sweet Angel."

*******

Everyone managed to meet at the pier and catch the same ride back to the ship. Everyone sat back taking turns telling about their adventure. The girl's talked about the colorful fish they saw, showing off the coral they'd purchased at one of the shops.

Spike smiled as he listened to them talk sitting sideways on the bench and Buffy between his legs leaning back against him. Leaning down he whispered, "I have a special treat for you after dinner- a surprise."

Buffy smiled as she turned to look up and reply, "I guess tonight will be full of surprises then."

Spike's eyes sparkled as he asked, "Really?"

"Yep, you're not the only one with a surprise, Mister," she answered, before turning her attention back the group.

Spike leaned down and kissed her hair, wishing they didn't have to part. Having spent the day with her, he didn't want to let her go. But duty called and he only had to work for two hours. Then he'd be with her again, and if all goes as planned, he'd have the rest of the night as well.

*******

Rack smiled as he closed the door to Angel's room, having borrowed one of the master keys. Mr. Tall dark and tiresome would have a rude encounter of the devious kind when he returned to the ship. He wished he could be a fly on the wall when Angel opened his surprise.

"Oh, man! I don't want to be you, dickhead. But you deserve everything and more that's coming your way." Rack's chuckle was evil and cocky.

*******

Robert looked at his three main writers for the show and asked, "Do you think we can write Angel off without him being there?"

Warren laughed. "Oh, I can write him off in my sleep."

"Yeah, we've been doing it for years now," Jonathon agreed.

"We have secret meetings just for that occasion," Andrew confessed.

"I'm not sure if you're kidding with me or not," Robert's voice sounded unsure.

"Started the 'how to kill Angel swiftly' was formed two days after meeting him," Warren decided to tell his boss. "The man is an ass."

"I know, but he's not the only one out there," Robert reminded them.

"We know, believe me," Jonathon said. "We've put it down as job experience."

Andrew snickered. "Plus, we figured if we can survive Angel, we can survive anything."

Robert looked at the three men he'd come to depend on, since he became involved in a few different projects. All three shared his vision for the show, and ran everything thing past him and never complained of any changes he made to the scripts. He had to hand it to the three men- they really hid their deep animosity toward O'Conner very well.

"So, when can I expect a rough draft of a script without Angel being involved? We don't have to explain his reason for being absent right away. Maybe use it to our advantage if need be," Robert said.

"You really think he's going to balk at being killed off, that he won't show at all?" Andrew asked.

"I'm making sure to have all our bases covered. I don't want to be running around for a script at the last minute when we can be prepared for either moment," Robert explained. "I know we just have to be careful. This show still has a few years of storyline to be developed and I don't want Angel to botch it up. I think we have so much more potential with Spike, Wes, and Giles, and it won't hurt the budget to have Angel's salary to play with."

"Vampires are plural, remember?" Jonathon added.

"Darla's character is a vampire, and I think we can easily incorporate her more in the storylines," Warren suggested, having been thinking about this for a very long time.

"I agree," Robert agreed.

"So Obi Wan, any suggestions for us young Jedi knights?" Andrew asked.

Robert snorted as he handed each of them a folder of his ideas, and his plans of where he wanted the show to go for this season. "Yes, young ones. Read and let the force be your guide."

Andrew sighed, recognizing the look the others had. It was a good thing he spent the day with Lorne. His free time tonight was going to be limited. When Warren, especially, had that look of excitement it usually led to an all night session of plotting and writing. He would make a special trip to find his new friend and explain he might have to work late tonight.

*******