Disclaimer: I own nothing here but the story. The wonderful characters all belong to Joss and Co. I just borrow them for my entertainment.

Author’s note: This is the second part in my Heart of Darkness series.

Summary: Buffy and Spike are growing closer, while Willow is growing ever more powerful.

Rating: NC-17

~Heart of Darkness~

Turbulence

Part Two-

Buffy snuck into her house before the sun came up. She hoped that Willow and Tara were still asleep. She didn’t want to have to explain why she was out again all night. This time, she actually had something naughty to cover up. Before it really had been innocent. Buffy wasn’t sure she could sweep the truth under the rug this time. She wasn’t a very convincing liar.

She crept up to her room and closed the door softly. She breathed a sigh of relief when she realized that no one had caught her. She felt kind of foolish. She was almost twenty-one years old. Her mother was gone, and this was her house. Yet she still felt like she had to sneak around. It didn’t really make much sense. She made a mental note to stop acting like such a child. If anyone had a problem with her seeing Spike, they’d just have to get over it. It was her life.

She removed her clothes and put on a nightshirt. She climbed into bed and tried to catch some more sleep.

Later, she woke up to the sounds of birds chirping loudly. She groaned and pulled the pillow over her head. Then she peeked out and looked at the clock. It was 9:45am. She sighed and tossed the pillow aside. She guessed she’d better get up.

She padded out into the hallway and saw that Willow and Tara’s door was open. She assumed that meant they were already up and probably eating breakfast. She walked down the stairs and into the kitchen. A cheerful Willow greeted her.

“Morning Buffy.” She said smiling at her.

“Morning. Is there coffee?” Buffy asked.

“Yup. I was also making pancakes. You want some?” Willow asked.

“Sure. I’m a little hungry.” Buffy said sleepily.

Tara was all smiles, and looked at Willow lovingly.

“Isn’t she just the best? She’s beautiful and she makes pancakes.” Tara smiled.

Buffy looked at her and shrugged.

“Yeah, Will’s great.” She smiled.

“I think I’m going to take a shower before we eat. Is that alright, Sweetie?” Tara asked Willow.

“Sure. Just don’t take too long. They only taste good when they’re fresh.” Willow said, talking to Tara almost like she was a child.

“Oh I won’t be long. I never can stand to be away from you.” Tara smiled sweetly, as she gave her a kiss.

Buffy looked at them oddly. Tara was acting strangely. It was almost like she was some sort of Stepford girlfriend. Or God forbid, a robot girlfriend. Buffy shook her head, and poured herself some coffee.

Once Tara was gone, Willow’s smile disappeared. She turned to Buffy.

“So, you were with him again last night?” She asked accusingly.

“What?” Buffy said looking over at her.

“Spike. You didn’t come home until almost six this morning. Don’t tell me. You accidentally fell asleep again, right?” Willow said giving her a disapproving look.

Buffy wasn’t comfortable with this conversation at all. Then she remembered what she had told herself this morning. If her friends didn’t like it, that was too bad. She wasn’t going to sneak around. She looked at Willow and smiled.

“Actually, there wasn’t a lot of sleeping involved this time. Mostly just sex. Is that what you wanted to know? I could give you details if you want, since you seem to be so interested in my life.” Buffy said irritated at Willow’s recent behavior. Buffy had had enough.

Willow looked at her shocked speechless by her bluntness.

“Well, I guess I was right.” Willow said quietly.

“Look, I know that none of you are going to like this. And I guess I understand. I mean, you guys don’t know him like I do. But, I care about him. And he loves me. He makes me feel…He makes me happy.” Buffy said, trying to explain as gently, but firmly as she could.

“At least someone makes you happy.” Willow said offhand.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Buffy asked her.

“Well, when you’re around us, all you do is frown and act like you don’t want to be here.” She said to her.

“Will, there’s just a lot you don’t understand.” Buffy said softly.

“Well, maybe I would if you told me.” Willow shot back at her.

“Look, I don’t want to talk about this right now.” Buffy said, trying to end the conversation.

“You never want to talk. I bet you talk to him, don’t you? Or maybe you’re just too busy having sex with him to talk at all.” Willow said angrily.

“I don’t need this.” Buffy said, getting up to leave the room. She was more than a little pissed off at Willow’s new personality.

Willow noticed that Buffy was angry and she felt a little bad. She tried to calm down and make nice again.

“I’m sorry. I just wish you would have confided in me. I thought we were best friends. Why did you think you had to sneak around?” Willow asked with hurt feelings.

“I don’t know. It wasn’t really like I planned this. It just sort of happened. And I’m telling you now.” Buffy said looking over at her.

“I don’t think it’s a very good idea, Buffy. He’s a vampire.” Willow said pointedly.

“I know that. And maybe it isn’t a good idea. Maybe it’s a huge mistake. But it’s my mistake to make.”

Buffy turned and started to head out of the kitchen again. Willow called out after her.

“It won’t end well. He’ll hurt you, you know. Just like Angel did. Probably worse.” Willow told her.

Buffy turned around to face her.

“Thanks for your support.” She said dryly.

“I’m just telling the truth. You think he understands you? You think you can trust him? You’re wrong. He’s not your friend. I am. I’m only saying this because I care.” Willow said sadly.

“I know you care. But this isn’t your decision.” Buffy said turning back around and heading out the door.

“Don’t you want pancakes?” Willow asked.

“Not hungry anymore.” Buffy muttered as she went up the stairs.

Later that afternoon, after Dawn came home, she and Buffy went grocery shopping. Willow turned to Tara and smiled.

“Honey? I’m going to go out for a little while. You stay here.” Willow told her as she kissed her forehead.

“Okay. Don’t be too long. I’ll miss you.” Tara said giving her a smile.

Willow smiled back then headed for the door. She was pleased at how well the spell had worked on her. Not only had she forgotten about their fight, and all the concerns she had over her magic, but she had turned into the most adoring girlfriend anyone could ask for. It was sweet, Willow thought. Now when Tara looked at her, all she could see was the good. She was completely blinded to anything negative.

Willow walked out the door and headed off towards her destination. She made her way to Spike’s crypt and walked inside. It was quiet so she called out to him.

“Spike?”

Spike walked out of the shadows and came up behind her.

“What?” He asked startling her.

She turned around quickly and glared at him.

“You shouldn’t sneak up like that.” She said to him.

“I hear you’ve been doing some sneaking of your own.” He said casually, as he moved away from her and lit a cigarette.

Willow ignored that comment and looked at him seriously.

“I think you need to stay away from Buffy.” She told him firmly.

“Now why would I do that?” He said giving her an incredulous look.

“Because. It’s not good for her. You’re not good for her. She’s fragile and confused right now, and you’re taking advantage.” Willow said coldly.

“I’m taking advantage? I don’t think so, sweetheart. I can’t help it if she prefers my company to yours. That’s what this is about, right? You’re jealous.” He said giving her a hard look.

“Maybe. I’m her friend. She belongs with me, not you.”

“Don’t you mean, she belongs to you? That’s what you wanted to say.” He said blowing smoke into her face.

Willow ignored the smoke and glared at him. He was too perceptive for her tastes. She smiled at him.

“I love Buffy. I loved her so much that I saved her from eternal torment. Where were you, huh?” She asked.

“I seem to recall not being let in on your little resurrection plot. Why was that again?” He asked.

“You weren’t important enough to tell.” She said coldly.

“More like you were afraid of what I would have done if I found out.” He shot back at her.

Willow shrugged.

“You couldn’t have stopped me anyway. But that isn’t what this is about. This about you and Buffy. It ends now.” She said firmly.

Spike laughed and took another drag on his cigarette.

“No it doesn’t end. It never ends. You may like to think you’re important now. And everyone else may listen to you. And you may have managed to fool everyone else into thinking that you’re still sweet, innocent Willow. But you can’t fool me. I have your number, Red.” He said staring at her.

She looked at him without expression.

“Just be careful Spike. If you hurt her, I hurt you. It’s as simple as that.” She said calmly and turned around and walked out.

Spike stared after her and shook his head. Something was definitely very wrong.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

A few weeks went by and Spike hadn’t told Buffy about Willow’s little visit. He didn’t want Buffy to know that her friend was trying to meddle in her life anymore than she already knew. Besides the fact that nothing had come of it anyway.

By now, everyone knew about them and they all seemed to be taking it okay. Not thrilled, of course, but they had all kept quiet for the most part. Even Xander had nothing to say. They couldn’t help but notice that since Buffy had been seeing Spike, her attitude had improved.

She still had her off moments, and she withdrew from time to time, but she actually tried to make an effort with everyone now. Her friends were all relieved. They weren’t sure if it was Spike that brought about the change, or if it was just that more time had passed. No one wanted to question it. They just let it be.

Buffy and Willow had tried to make amends. Willow stressed to her that she was still concerned, but promised to offer her support. Willow figured that she was pushing Buffy away further by openly disapproving. Their relationship improved somewhat, but Willow was still unhappy that Buffy didn’t confide in her anymore.

The entire group dynamic had changed drastically since Buffy had been back. Everyone was going in their own direction. Xander and Anya were busily trying to plan their wedding. Buffy and Spike spent most of their free time together. They did the patrolling, and everyone else stuck to research mostly. Things were different. Everyone was different now. But things were okay for the time being. It was almost like a calm before the storm.

Buffy tried not to see it that way, though. For the first time in a long while she felt content with life. She realized this as she lay in Spike’s arms one night. They had just finished making love and were tangled in his bed sheets, holding each other. She sighed and looked up at him.

“Life is pretty good, isn’t it?” She said happily.

“Never been better.” He murmured as he kissed the top of her head.

“I understand that now. I mean, at first it was so hard for me. Life seemed so scary and painful. But now, I remember the stuff that made life so enjoyable. The stuff that makes people want to keep going in a world isn’t always fun to be in.” She said in a far off voice.

“Such as?”

“Well, this for starters.” She said indicating their lovemaking. “I forgot how much fun this can be.” She smiled.

He leaned down and kissed her softly. Then he smiled at her. She continued.

“Plus, there are other things too. Like laughing, and singing along with radio. Reading stupid tabloids. Ice cream. Little things. I guess before I was just so focused on what I’d lost, I forgot about what I still had.” She admitted softly.

“I’m glad to see that you’re feeling better now.” He said quietly, stroking her hair.

“I am. Things are still rough sometimes, but I’m okay. Plus, I know that wherever I was, I’ll be there again. It just won’t be for awhile. I’ve decided that I should just enjoy the time I have. I have eternity waiting for me, and life is a lot shorter than that. I need to enjoy those little things. Plus, I don’t think they have sex or ice cream in Heaven. Better enjoy that while I can.” She added jokingly, trying to lighten the serious tone of the conversation.

He looked at her and laughed.

“Well, if they don’t, then Heaven doesn’t sound like a place I’d want to be anyway.” He joked.

She looked at him and smiled. Then she turned serious again. She laid her head back down on his chest.

“Does it make you sad? You know, that we won’t see each other again. After.” She said quietly.

He stared up at the ceiling and sighed. It did make him sad. He’d never thought about it before until after she had come back and told him about her experience. But he did think about it now.

“Sure. It bothers me. But, there isn’t anything to be done about that. I don’t deserve to go there. We both know that.” He said softly.

“Do you think that your soul is already there?” She asked.

“I don’t know. Never gave it much thought. Besides, that was William’s soul. Not mine.”

She looked up at him curiously.

“But you don’t have a soul, remember?”

“Sure I do. I have you. You’re my soul.” He said softly.

She looked at him and reached up to touch his face. He leaned down and kissed her softly.

“I love you. Everything that’s good about me is because of you.” He whispered.

She snuggled into him and buried her face in his neck. He made her feel so good. Safe, protected, loved. She wanted to tell him that, but for some reason she just couldn’t. Something was still holding her back. Fear was holding her back.

Something inside warned her that loving him would only lead to heartache. He may be good now, but she was afraid deep down that it wouldn’t last. Somehow she feared that if she loved him, it would automatically jinx it. After all, it always worked that way before.

Every time she fell in love, something horrible happened and everything got ruined. This time, she didn’t want that to happen. She knew it was pretty stupid to think that by not admitting her feelings, that would somehow keep her safe. But she couldn’t help it. She didn’t want this to end. Not now. And preferably not ever. So she remained silent.

The next day, Buffy sat in her kitchen with her mountain of bills and her checkbook. They had managed to survive the last two and half months on what was left, but now Buffy feared that money was seriously running out. She didn’t even want to deal with it.

Willow walked into the kitchen and noticed what Buffy was doing.

“Ugh. Is it that time again already?” She asked.

“Yeah. I’ve been putting it off. I’m afraid to look.” Buffy pouted.

“Well, let me help. I’m good with numbers. Maybe I can juggle some stuff around for you?” Willow offered.

“I was just gonna give it to Anya. She’s the one who’s been dealing with it all. She’s all in love with money. But I’ve noticed that she’s not as interested as she used to be. Probably because I have no more money left to love.” Buffy sighed.

“We don’t need Anya. I can take care of this. There’s probably more money left than you think.” Willow said with a smile.

Buffy exhaled loudly and pushed the stack over to Willow.

“Knock yourself out. If it’s really bad, just don’t tell me.” Buffy said with a small smile.

“Why don’t you just go out for a little while? Let me do this. That’s what friends are for. I’m really good with the helping.” Willow smiled comfortingly.

“Thanks Will. I think I’m gonna go to the mall and look at all the pretty things I can’t have.” Buffy smiled, trying to find some humor in a less than humorous situation.

“Have fun. And don’t worry. I’ll take care of everything.” Willow said confidently.

Buffy walked out and got her jacket. She headed out the door and Willow watched her go. She made sure that Buffy’s car was gone, and she headed upstairs. Tara and Dawn were both at school, so Willow was alone. She went into her room and took out the amulet.

She smiled as she placed it around her neck. The energy felt so good against her skin. She walked back downstairs and sat at the kitchen table. She piled the bills up into a neat stack, and then opened the checkbook and placed it on top. She closed her eyes and began to recite her magic.

Debt be gone

Riches be gained

What is owed shall now be paid

Bind them so they cannot see

Riches ours eternally

The amulet glowed and the light swirled around and enveloped the stack of papers. Then the energy returned to the crystal. Willow looked down at the checkbook. The numbers in the columns blurred until they finally transformed themselves. The total changed from $1,500 to $150,000. Willow smiled happily.

Then she looked at the stack of bills. She picked one up and went to the phone. She dialed up the customer service number on the back of the statement. A woman from the electric company answered.

“Yes, this is Buffy Summers. I was just calling to see when I made my last payment. I seem to have forgotten to write it down.” Willow said pleasantly into the phone.

“Just a moment. Let me check the records.” The woman said. Then she came back on the line. “Yes, a payment of $350 was posted today actually.”

“Thank you. That’s all I need to know.” Willow said with a smirk.

She hung up the phone and let out a small cry of triumph. It worked. The bill collectors had all been fooled into thinking they had been paid, when in actuality, they had received nothing from them. All Willow had to do now was offer to take care of the bills every month and no one would ever know.

Willow called the bank next to confirm the balance in the checking account. Sure enough, it was just as the checkbook now read. $150,000. Now this was the life. Free money. It didn’t get much better than that. She fingered the amulet around her neck and kissed it.

“Thank you.” She said aloud.

Then she picked up the stack of bills and tossed them into the trash. Then she went back upstairs to put the amulet away. Buffy would have no choice but to be grateful now. Willow had just made her life a hundred times easier. Now she just had to think of a way to explain where the money came from. She’d deal with that later.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Buffy walked in the house with one small package under her arm. She just couldn’t resist. She saw a pair of earrings that she just had to have. She knew it was stupid to spend money on something like that, when she was broke, but she needed a little pick me up. And they were only $15. She sighed and figured it didn’t really matter. Maybe she wouldn’t eat anything today, but at least her ears would look pretty.

She tossed her purse onto the hall table and called out for Willow.

“Will? You here?”

Willow walked out of the kitchen with a smile.

“Hey Buffy. Did you have fun?” She asked.

“Yeah. Bought something. I know I can’t afford to be frivolous, but I’m weak.” She said, pulling the earrings out to show her.

“They’re pretty.” Willow smiled. Then she put her arm around Buffy. “There’s something I need to tell you.”

Buffy groaned.

“Ugh! I told you not to tell me if it was bad. Forget it. Just tell me. Should we be looking for a nice refrigerator box to live in?” Buffy asked covering her eyes.

“Relax, Buffy. It’s not bad. It’s good. I was going through some of your mom’s records again. It seems like there was another bank account that we didn’t know about before. It had more money it. A lot more. I went ahead and took care of everything. You’re gonna be fine. You don’t have to worry about this anymore.” Willow smiled happily.

“Okay, now you’re lying to me. Come on, I can take it.” Buffy teased her disbelieving.

“I swear. I don’t know how we missed it before. Maybe Anya’s not as good with finances as she thought. I think you should just let me handle all this from now on.” Willow said, trying to secure her position as head of finances.

“You’re serious? How much money are we talking?” Buffy asked.

“Well, about $150,000.” Willow told her happily.

“What? Oh my god. That’s wonderful! Will, you’re the best! I love you for this. Really.” Buffy said, hugging her tightly.

Willow smiled satisfied over Buffy’s shoulder. Now this was the thanks she expected. It felt really good.

“No problem, Buffy. Just remember, I’m always there for you.” Willow told her softly.

“I know. I’m sorry things have been so strained between us.” Buffy said looking down uncomfortably.

“It’s okay. Things will be better now. I know you just needed more time, right?” Willow said hopefully.

“Yeah. I did. But I’m better now. And this bit of news makes me feel even more wonderful. Why don’t we go back to the mall and go a little nuts? I saw a lot more stuff I really wanted. We could do that girls day out like you wanted.” Buffy said with a smile.

“Yes. I totally want to. I’ll go get my coat.” Willow said happily.

Finally things were looking up. Her best friend was back and now starting to get close to her again. It was all because of the amulet. It had helped her get her friend back. There was nothing evil or sinister about it. It was all good.

That night, Buffy walked to Spike’s place to see him. She was still flying high on the news that she was no longer broke. Willow had completely saved her butt finding out about that other bank account. They had gone shopping and had a wonderful time. Buffy had felt so good, she bought small presents for everyone. Including Spike.

She carried a small shopping bag with her as she opened up his door. He was sitting in his chair watching TV when she walked in. He looked over at her and smiled. She walked over to him and sat down on his lap.

“Miss me?” She asked with a smile.

“Always.” He said giving her a long and lingering kiss. He pulled away. “So what’s in the bag?” He asked, raising his eyebrows.

“Just a present.” She said casually.

“For who?”

“For my other boyfriend. I thought I’d get your opinion first.” She said rolling her eyes.

“Ha, ha. Very funny. What is it?” He asked curiously.

“It’s not much. You’ll probably hate it. And it is kind of lame.” She said suddenly feeling awkward giving him a gift.

“Can I see it at least?” He asked.

She sighed and handed the bag over.

“If you hate it, just be nice. I’m all fragile.” She said with a little pout.

He kissed her pout away and smiled. He opened up the bag. Inside was a black, leather bound journal. It looked very expensive. He looked up at her.

“It’s very nice.” He said sincerely.

“I just thought you needed something nicer than that cheap notebook to put your thoughts in.” She shrugged, trying to act like she wasn’t terrified he thought it was stupid.

“It’s perfect. But I’m not sure my thoughts are worth what this journal cost.” He said, concerned that she spent too much money that he knew she didn’t have.

She leaned over and kissed him.

“I think they’re worth it. Plus, I’m all rich now so I can afford it.” She said with a smile.

He looked at her curiously.

“What’s this now? You’re rich?” He asked.

“Yup. Willow found another bank account that we didn’t even know about. It has like a ton of money it. I guess Anya missed it or something.” Buffy shrugged.

Spike looked at her strangely. Another bank account? That sounded a little strange. And awfully convenient. He shook his head.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes. She showed it to me. So now I don’t have to worry about being homeless. Plus, I bought this new outfit. Do you like it?” She asked with a grin.

He looked at her and smiled.

“Oh yes. It’s very nice.” He said leaning over to kiss her neck.

She smiled.

“So do you like your present? It’s not stupid? I mean, I wasn’t sure what to buy the vampire who has everything, you know?” She said jokingly.

“I love it. No one has ever given me anything before.” He admitted to her softly.

“Never? I mean, Drusilla never brought you presents or anything?” She asked curiously.

He laughed slightly and shook his head.

“Not really. Her idea of a gift was a little different than this.”

“Oh. Right.” She said, suddenly uncomfortable. She realized that her idea of a gift was probably some helpless virgin they could kill together. She pushed that thought out of her head.

Spike sensed that the subject had gotten a touch uncomfortable. He sighed.

“I like this much better.” He assured her.

She leaned over and kissed him. Then she pulled back.

“Wanna go downstairs and take off my new outfit?” She asked him with a devious smile.

He looked at her and smirked.

“Oh yeah. I think it’ll look better strewn on the floor anyway.”

They got up and headed down the ladder together. Once they were down there, Buffy wasted no time in tackling him onto the bed. She was in playful mood. She had had a really wonderful day for a change and was eager to spread her good mood around.

He enjoyed it when she let her passionate side come through. Most of the time, their lovemaking was tender and sweet. He loved her so much, he couldn’t help but become a romantic sap every time they were together. But he also had to admit that part of him was longing for the fire. It was always there, under the surface, but he was careful not to get too carried away.

But tonight, she was taking the lead and she definitely had fire in her eyes. If she hadn’t of just bought her outfit, he would have ripped it right off of her without another thought. He had to restrain himself a little.

She kissed him hungrily as she pinned him down to the bed, straddling his legs. She sat up and ran her hands over his chest and gave him a seductive glance.

“You are awfully feisty tonight.” He said his voice hoarse with desire.

“Is that a bad thing?” She asked, playfully tugging his shirt over his head.

“Not at all.” He said giving her a fiery look.

With his arms now free, he reached up and grabbed her shoulders. He flipped her around and pinned her down to the bed. He kissed her roughly.

“I’m feeling a little feisty myself.” He whispered into her ear.

She closed her eyes and smiled. She wrapped her legs around his waist tightly and yanked him closer to her. His fingers traveled down her body, nimbly undoing the buttons on her blouse as he went down. He sat up and pushed the fabric away from her body. He leaned down and kissed her breasts greedily through the fabric of her bra. She clutched his hair and let out a soft cry at his touch.

She then used her legs to gain momentum and flipped him over and back into the pillows. She smiled at his surprised but hungry expression. She pulled her blouse all the way off and reached back to unhook her bra. He looked at her pert, naked breasts, longingly. He reached out to caress them, playing with her already hardened nipples. She closed her eyes at the feel of his fingers expertly fondling her body.

He sat up and pulled her to him, taking one of her nipples into his mouth. She moaned and threw her head back, clutching his head to her breast. His lips traveled up her chest and along her neck, gently nibbling her tender flesh as he moved along. His lips met hers once again in a bruising kiss.

He turned her around and pressed her back into the pillows as he gently sucked on her earlobe. His hands traveled down to her pants and roughly undid the buttons. He kissed his way down her body until he reached her opened pants. He pulled them down and tossed them aside. He kissed her thighs and worked his way up, kissing her through the fabric of her panties.

She moaned and looked down at him expectantly. She wanted to feel his mouth on her. She was aching with need for him. He sensed this and smiled. He pulled her panties off and dropped them to the floor. He parted her legs and felt her body tense up with expectation at the delights he was about to bring to her.

He gently ran his tongue over her soft, warm flesh. Relishing the taste of her body on his tongue. He gently sucked her sensitive nub into his mouth and he heard her cry out with pleasure.

“Oh Spike. Oh…yes.” She cried softly.

This made his erection throb even more than it was before. He had never needed anyone like this before. He had never loved anyone like this before. It was almost overwhelming. He felt her hands grip his shoulders and she pulled him up again to meet her mouth. She kissed him feverishly, and he pulled back to kiss her neck again.

“Do you see how sweet you taste? I’m intoxicated by you.” He whispered into her ear hungrily.

“I need you now.” She whispered back anxiously tugging on his zipper, trying desperately to free him.

He helped her undo his pants and pull them off. She took the opportunity to flip him over onto his back again. She smiled and straddled him, plunging him deep inside of her. He cried out softly.

“Oh god…You feel so hot.” He said closing his eyes and letting her move her body above him.

She threw her head back and ground herself against him. The feeling was so intense, she wasn’t sure how long she could last. She looked down and saw the immense pleasure written across his face. He then grabbed her around the waist and attempted to flip her over onto her back.

He misjudged the side of the bed slightly, and instead of ending up on top of her, they both tumbled off the bed and landed roughly on the floor. Buffy gasped in surprise for a moment as he landed on top of her. Then she started laughing.

“Ouch.” She laughed.

“Sorry.” He said feeling a little silly.

“Don’t be. Just don’t stop.” She said with a sly smile.

He smiled back and slid himself back into her warmth. They both moaned and instantly forgot all about their little tumble off the bed. It didn’t take long for both of them to be plunged into bliss. She clutched him tightly as she came, digging her nails into his back. His head shot back at the pain and pleasure of the moment, and he felt his release overcome him.

Afterwards they lay together on the floor out of breath and completely spent. Buffy ran her fingers through his hair and started to laugh. He looked down at her.

“What’s funny?” He asked.

“That was different.” She said with a smile.

“Yeah. Sorry about the whole falling off the bed thing.” He said embarrassed.

“Don’t be. It was kind of funny actually.” She laughed.

“Yeah, but sex isn’t supposed to be funny.” He told her.

She looked at him and shook her head.

“Sure it is. I mean, it is fun. That’s why people do it. There’s nothing wrong with a little laughter, right?” She asked.

“I guess. As long as the laughter isn’t directed at certain part of my anatomy.” He said with a smirk.

She laughed and rolled her eyes.

“Don’t worry. There’s no laughing there.” She assured him.

He smirked at her.

“Its more liked awed appreciation, right?” He asked jokingly.

“Oh yeah. It’s definitely appreciated.” She said giving him a deep kiss.

He pulled back and looked at her lovingly.

“Maybe we should move back to the bed. This ground probably isn’t all that comfortable for you.” He told her.

“Yeah, you’re right. I think I’m laying on a rock or something.” She said shifting uncomfortably.

They got up and climbed back into the bed and under the covers. Buffy laid on her back and Spike draped his arm across her stomach and laid his head down across her chest. She stroked his hair as he listened to the contented sound of her steady heartbeat.

“I like that sound.” He whispered.

“What sound?”

“Your heart. It’s like music to me.”

“That’s not like some weird vampire/blood thing, is it?” She asked making a face.

He looked up at her and rolled his eyes.

“No. It’s just that it means you’re alive. You’re here again. Sometimes it just seems so unreal.” He told her softly.

“I know. Sometimes it is for me too. But I’m glad I’m here.” She said quietly.

“You are?”

“Yeah. I really am. I think things are gonna be better for me this time around. I feel it.” She said thoughtfully.

“I know things are better for me.” He said softly, running his hand over her chest where her heart was beating softly.

“Yeah. I’ve decided that the old rules don’t apply anymore. I used to be afraid of things but I’m not anymore. Life is short and while I’m here, I don’t want to be afraid.” She said softly.

It was time to stop hiding from her feelings. She had waited long enough and it was time now to stop worrying. She loved him. She knew that. It was time to let him know that too. He needed to know.

She took a deep breath and closed her eyes. She continued to play with a lock of his hair, twisting it around in her fingers. Then she opened her eyes and looked down the top of his head nestled against her breast.

“I love you Spike.” She said quietly.

He slowly lifted his head to look her in the eyes. The look of love and surprise was written all over his face. He stared at her and she began to feel self conscious.

“What?” She asked him anxiously.

“What did you just say?” He asked, his voice hoarse.

“I love you. I-I just thought you should know. I-I know I’ve never said it before, but I do. I love you.” She said nervously.

He continued to gaze into her eyes. He was speechless. He had all but given up hope that she would ever love him. At first, he had waited. Hoping she’d finally say it. Then as time passed, he figured that she just didn’t love him. He had been disappointed, but he wasn’t willing to risk losing whatever it was they did have. Her declaration caught him completely off guard. He leaned up and kissed her softly.

“I love you, Buffy. Nothing will ever change that. I hope you believe that.” He said sincerely.

“I believe it.” She smiled.

They held each other tightly, both content to just be lost in their own little fantasy world. They knew that things for them would never be easy, but tonight all of that melted away. Tonight, they felt like nothing else mattered. Their love would be able to overcome anything.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * **

A few days went by and Willow was at the Magic Box with Xander and Anya. Willow and Xander were sitting at a table talking. Anya had the bookkeeping for the store spread across the counter, and was busy working, only half paying attention to their conversation.

Things had been tense for a little while after Willow had done the spell to get Anya to shut up. Finally, Willow had managed to get back in their good graces after apologizing profusely. Xander forgave her, but Anya still didn’t trust her. But then again, she had never been very fond of Willow to begin with. They were just two people who didn’t get along. But things were cordial at least. For the time being.

Anya’s ears pricked up when she heard Willow mention something to Xander about an extra bank account of Buffy’s with over a hundred thousand dollars in it. She looked up from her work.

“What did you say?” She asked.

“I-I said that Buffy’s mom had another bank account. You must have overlooked it.” Willow said to her.

“That’s impossible. I went through everything a million times. I’m sure I would have noticed a fat account like that.” Anya said furrowing her brow.

“Guess you just didn’t look hard enough.” Willow said shrugging her shoulders.

“No. I did. Where did you find this account?” Anya said, coming out from behind the counter to stand in front of Willow.

“I just found it, okay?” Willow said, growing impatient with Anya once again.

“Can I see the records?” Anya asked curiously.

“I don’t have them with me right now.” Willow said rolling her eyes.

“I just don’t see how I could have missed something like that.” Anya said shaking her head unhappily.

“Guys, who cares. It’s there now, and that’s all that matters. Buffy’s living the good life. Who cares who discovered it?” Xander said, trying to keep the peace.

“I care.” Anya said giving him a hurt look.

“Look, I need some fresh air. I’ll be right back.” Willow said sensing Anya wasn’t going to be as easily appeased by this as everyone else.

She sighed and reached for her backpack. She got up and headed into the back alleyway. She pulled her amulet out and put it around her neck. She took a deep breath and began to chant.

Erase the memory

Start anew

What is now must be then

By the power of Tarkin

Forgotten

She finished her chant to make Anya forget that there wasn’t another bank account. If the spell worked properly, Anya would believe that it had been there all along. Maybe then, she’d get off her back. Willow put the amulet back into the pouch and turned around. She ran right into Spike who was standing there giving her a hard look.

“Spike! You startled me. H-how long have you been standing there?” She asked nervously.

“Long enough. That wasn’t the amulet, was it?” He asked, knowing full well that it was.

“No. Of course not.” Willow lied.

“Right. Cause that would be wrong if it were. I suppose you weren’t casting some sort of evil spell either.” He said mocking her.

“It wasn’t evil. Unlike you.” She said giving him a hard look.

“Very funny.” He said without emotion in his voice.

“What are you doing out here? Spying on me?” She asked crossing her arms.

“I was waiting for Buffy. She said she had to stop by here for something, then we were gonna patrol. I wonder what she would think if I told her I caught you out here doing a little evil amulet mojo on some poor unsuspecting soul?” He said, lighting a cigarette.

“She won’t say anything because you won’t tell her.” She said with an icy tone.

“Why shouldn’t I? You have no idea what you’ve gotten yourself into, little girl.” Spike said with some concern.

“I know exactly what I’m doing. The amulet isn’t evil. People are evil. I’m only using it to help out. Not to hurt anyone. There’s a difference.” She protested.

“So what were you just doing? Something about forgetting? Who needs to forget what?” He asked her pointedly.

“I don’t have to tell you anything, Spike. It’s none of your business.” She snapped angrily at him.

“If this has anything to do with Buffy, it is my business.” He said, getting into her face.

She glared at him.

“Buffy will never know about this. Understood? Things are finally going well between us. If you tell her about the amulet, you’ll ruin everything.” She said to him heatedly.

“You need help. You’ve gone all wacky in the head, haven’t you? You don’t even know what it is you’re doing anymore. You think I’m not gonna warn Buffy that she’s living with a ticking time bomb? Think again.” He said angrily.

Willow looked at him and felt a sense of powerful calm settle over her. She smiled at him evilly and moved closer to him. She got into his face.

“If you breathe a word of this to Buffy or anyone else, you’ll be very sorry.” She said calmly and evilly.

“What? Will you kill me?” He asked, not balking at her threats.

She stood back and laughed. Then she smiled at him.

“No. That would be too easy. I mean, you can’t even fight back. No. I’m not going to kill you. But when I’m done with you? You’re gonna wish I would.” She said smirking at him.

She turned around and walked back towards the shop entrance. Spike stared after her, clearly unnerved by what just happened. He swallowed hard and clenched his teeth in frustration.

Willow glanced over her shoulder once more before opening the door.

“Keep your mouth shut.” She said to him, then disappeared inside the building.

He growled angrily and kicked the side of the dumpster. This was definitely a sticky situation. He had no idea what to do. Clearly she was completely insane and drunk on power. The worse part was, there wasn’t a damn thing he could do about it.

He knew he needed to tell Buffy, but he wasn’t sure what Willow would do next. Normally, her words would mean little to him. But now, she was a threat. He still had his chip, which made him defenseless against her. Plus, even if he didn’t have the chip, he was no match against the powerful magicks she was using. It was a lose/lose situation. But Buffy might be in danger, and he couldn’t risk that. He had to say something.

He just hoped that maybe Buffy could get through to her somehow. He hoped that there was at least a little bit of the old Willow still left inside of her. He only hoped that Buffy might be able to find her again.

He stood next to the dumpster waiting for Buffy. She finally showed up and smiled when she saw him. She threw her arms around his neck and kissed him.

“Sorry it took so long. Dawn borrowed my black boots and I had to search her room for them. Let me tell you, it’s not pretty in there.” Buffy said rolling her eyes.

“It’s okay. Um, listen. We need to talk. Now.” He said softly, leaning into her.

“Sounds like something not of the good. What’s wrong?” She asked, feeling a knot tie up her stomach.

“I can’t tell you here. We need to go somewhere else.” He said taking her arm and attempting to lead her away.

“But I need to go get my weapons bag. I left it here last night.” She told him.

“Forget that for now. Patrolling can wait. This is more important.” He said in a low voice.

“You’re scaring me.” She said nervously.

“Come on. Let’s go back to my place.”

He pulled her arm and they set off walking. His pace was fast and she almost had to jog to keep up. Finally she stopped walking and turned to him.

“Spike, what the hell is going on? Why are you in such a hurry?”

“This isn’t something I can just tell you out here.” He said looking at her sympathetically.

“Are we breaking up?” She asked suddenly nervous about his demeanor.

He sighed and put his hands on her shoulders.

“No. Baby, I love you. I’m not breaking up with you. This is about Willow. She’s in trouble. Big trouble.” He said gravely.

“What happened?”

Spike looked around the empty street. Satisfied that no one else was around, he turned to her again.

“She’s got the amulet. She’s using it. I don’t know what for, but she’s obviously already invoked the spirit. She had it with her tonight, and I caught her casting some sort of spell with it.” He told her.

“She’s using the evil heart of darkness thing?” Buffy asked incredulously.

“Yes. I saw her. And she knows I saw her. She’s crazy, Buffy. I’m worried about you.” He said stroking her hair.

“Worried about me? I’m more worried about her. This is insane. Willow knows better than that. Why would she do this?” Buffy asked, more to herself than anyone.

“I told you. She’s high on power. She was beginning to get frightening before. Now with the amulet? She’s downright wicked. I’m serious. She’s not your friend anymore.”

Buffy shook her head and moved away from him.

“No. You’re wrong. Willow is a good person. She would never, ever do something like this.”

“She did. I’m sorry. But look. It might not be too late. You can help her. You can try to reach her.” He explained.

“How?”

“Talk to her. Tell her you know about the amulet. Try to convince her that what she’s doing is wrong. I don’t know. She might not listen, but it’s worth a shot.”

“Okay. I just can’t believe this. It’s just not like her.” Buffy said sadly.

“There’s one more thing. She threatened that if I told anyone about this, I’d be sorry. So don’t tell her that I told you. Pretend like you figured it out on your own.” He said looking at her seriously.

“She threatened you?”

“Yeah.”

“You seem a little wigged out.”

“Truthfully? I am. Funny isn’t it? But Buffy, I’m defenseless, remember? She can do whatever she damn well pleases and I can’t do a bloody thing to stop her.” He said shaking his head.

“Don’t worry. I won’t let her.” Buffy said hugging him tightly.

“I’m serious. Be careful.” He said, looking into her eyes.

“I will. If Willow’s in there somewhere, I’ll reach her. I promise.”

She kissed him softly then turned around to leave.

“I’ll see you later.” She told him.

“I love you.” He called out to her.

“I love you too. I’ll fix this.” She said giving him a small smile, before she turned around again to leave.

Spike sighed and hoped that he hadn’t made a huge mistake. He just wanted to help. He wanted Buffy to be safe. And he had to admit, he kind of wanted the old, sweet Willow back himself. He found he actually missed her a little. He headed back to his place to hope for the best.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Buffy had decided to go back home and wait for Willow. She knew she’d be coming home soon. Tara and Dawn were in the kitchen baking cookies when she walked in.

“Hey Buffy. You’re back early.” Dawn said looking at her strangely.

“I know. I need to talk to Willow. Is she home yet?” Buffy asked distractedly.

“No. Not yet. She should be home soon though. Why don’t you have some cookies?” Tara said with a smile.

“No. I’m fine. I think I’ll wait for her upstairs.” Buffy said, heading out of the kitchen.

Dawn looked at Tara.

“She seems a little freaked. I wonder if something happened?” Dawn said concerned.

“I’m sure it’s nothing. Don’t worry Dawnie. Whatever it is, Willow will help her.” Tara said patting her on the arm.

Dawn looked at Tara oddly. Lately she always had this weird smile plastered on her face, and she was always trying to do stuff to make Willow happy. Dawn knew that they were girlfriends and stuff, but it seemed like a bit much even for them. Every time Willow did or said anything, Tara would just smile and agree with her. Dawn found it a little creepy, but she didn’t say anything. It wasn’t really any of her business. She sighed and picked up another cookie.

Buffy heard the front door open and went downstairs to catch Willow. Willow was taking her jacket off, when Buffy came down the stairs. She smiled.

“Hey Buffy. You’re home early.” Willow said to her.

“Yeah. Everyone keeps saying that. I’m starting to think no one wants me here.” Buffy said with a nervous smile. She had no idea what to say, or how to start such a serious conversation.

“Of course we want you here. It’s just you’re always gone at this time of night. It’s a surprise. I thought you were patrolling?” Willow asked.

“There wasn’t anything happening so I came home.” Buffy shrugged.

“Oh. Well, you wanna hang out? We could watch movies or something?” Willow asked hopefully.

“Um, actually, I wanted to talk to you. In private. Upstairs.” Buffy said taking a deep breath.

“Oh. It sounds serious.” Willow said furrowing her brow.

“It is. Um, it’s serious. Can we go upstairs?” Buffy asked nervously.

“Sure. Whatever it is, I’m sure I can make it better. Come on.” Willow said, taking her arm and walking up the stairs with her.

Buffy couldn’t help but think Spike had to be wrong about her. She was acting like normal Willow to her. She was all concerned and nice. She started to have second thoughts about having this conversation.

They walked into Buffy’s room and sat down on the bed. Willow looked at her full of concern.

“What’s wrong, Buffy? You can tell me.” Willow said, patting her arm.

“I know about the amulet.” Buffy blurted out, then cringed. That wasn’t the way she intended to start this conversation. It just spilled out and she regretted it.

“What?” Willow asked quickly.

“The amulet. I saw you with it the other day. I-I was afraid to say anything, but now I think I need to.” Buffy said, telling a half truth.

“You saw me?” Willow asked incredulously as she rose from the bed and began to pace anxiously.

“Yeah. Will, I thought you knew better than that? That amulet is dangerous. You can’t use it.” Buffy said seriously.

Willow turned to her sharply.

“You didn’t see me. Spike saw me. He told you, right?” Willow said angrily.

“No. I did see you.”

“You’re lying. You’re trying to protect him. I warned him.” Willow said shaking her head.

“Willow. Listen to yourself. You’re talking crazy. We’re just concerned for you. This is serious stuff. That amulet isn’t just a pretty glowing heart. It’s evil. And you have to get rid of it.” Buffy said, getting up to face her.

“No. I won’t. I’m not hurting anyone. I’m helping. How do you think your bills got paid? And where do you think all that money came from, huh? It was me. It was the amulet. I took care of everything. Don’t you see?” Willow said imploringly.

Buffy stared at her incredulously. She shook her head.

“You used magic to pay my bills and conjure up fake money? You’re insane! You can’t do that. You lied to me.” Buffy said numb with shock.

“I can do it. And I did do it. You should be thanking me instead of acting like a self righteous bitch.” Willow spat at her.

Buffy’s lip trembled and she had to fight back tears. This was not Willow. This was not the friend she’d known for five years. This was someone else. A stranger.

“You are forgetting who you are messing with. You think I can’t take you?” Buffy said angrily.

“You can’t. You may be all strong and Slayery, but I’m so much more than that. You can’t even begin to imagine the things I can do.” Willow said giving her a cold look.

“You’re sick, you know that? You think we’re friends? We’re not. Not anymore. Not after this. You wanna be my enemy? Fine. Let’s finish this right now.” Buffy said, getting into fighting stance.

Willow glared at her but made no move to challenge her. A thousand thoughts were going through her head. Buffy was pissed. Willow was losing her all over again. Sometimes Willow just couldn’t stop saying things that she didn’t want to say. It was the same as before with Tara. She couldn’t lose Buffy’s friendship. But she knew she had said too much.

“I’m not going to fight you.” Willow said, calmly moving past her and out the door.

“Where are you going? This isn’t finished! You can’t honestly believe that we’re okay now.” Buffy called after her.

“We will be okay again. Soon.” Willow said so softly that Buffy didn’t hear her.

Willow went and locked herself in the bathroom. She wiped the tears off her face and pulled her amulet out of her bag. She put it on again.

Grant the power to make amends

Friendship strong it never ends

Bind her so she can’t recall

His betrayal burns

So must he fall

The energy encircled her and she felt the spell taking hold. She breathed out a sigh of relief and composed herself again. She looked in the mirror and stared at her reflection. Her eyes were different. Cold and hard. She knew they weren’t the same anymore. They weren’t eyes of innocence. She’d lost that long ago. These were eyes of power. She smiled smugly and headed out the door.

She went to Buffy’s room and knocked on the door.

“Come in.” Buffy called out.

Willow opened the door and peeked her head in.

“Hey. Can I come in?” She asked.

“Sure. What’s up?” Buffy asked cheerfully.

Willow smiled, satisfied that Buffy remembered nothing that happened only minutes before. She walked over and sat down on the bed. Her expression turned serious.

“I have to tell you something. I’m afraid it isn’t good news.” Willow said gravely.

Buffy looked at her concerned. She went and sat down next to her friend.

“What is it?”

“This is gonna be hard for you to hear. But I think you should know.”

“You’re starting to freak me. What is it?” Buffy asked nervously.

“It’s Spike. I saw him earlier. Buffy, he was biting someone. I think his chip has stopped working.” Willow said with fake remorse.

Buffy stared at her and felt her stomach drop. She struggled to not throw up right then and there.

“What?” She asked numbly.

“I saw him. He was feeding again. He’s been lying to us, Buffy. He’s evil again.” Willow told her.

Buffy stood up and shook her head.

“No. He wouldn’t do that. He’s different now. No. I don’t believe you.” Buffy said as her hands shook.

“I’m sorry. I know you thought he was different now. We all did. I wouldn’t have believed it if I hadn’t of seen it with my own eyes. I saw him kill someone, Buffy. His chip doesn’t work anymore.”

“No. He loves me.” Buffy said numb with shock.

“He lied to you.”

Buffy felt her entire world crumbling around her. She should have known better than to tell him that she loved him. It jinxed it. It ruined everything. This couldn’t be happening. She trusted him. God, she loved him. How could he do this? She felt weak and had to sit down again.

“Are you sure it was him? I mean, maybe it was just some other vampire with a bad dye job. It couldn’t be him.” Buffy said, still disbelieving.

“I’m sorry, Buffy. It was him. I’m positive. You believe me, don’t you?”

Buffy took a deep breath and nodded her head slowly.

“Yeah. I guess I do. But it doesn’t seem real. We were happy, I thought. I never thought he’d go back. Even without the chip. I never thought he’d go back. I believed him when he said he’d changed.”

“He’s evil though. He can’t change. I told you he would hurt you.” Willow said, touching her arm.

Buffy pulled her arm away and looked at Willow blankly.

“I have to see him.” She said softly.

She went over to her dresser and pulled out a stake. She put it in her pocket and headed for the door.

“Are you gonna dust him?” Willow asked quietly.

“I don’t know yet.” Buffy said numbly, without looking back.

She headed off in search of Spike, while Willow stood back and folded her arms. A small, wicked smile spread across her lips.

“I warned you Spike. You meddle in my life, I meddle in yours.” She said to herself smugly.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Buffy walked quickly towards Spike’s place. Her hand was in her pocket, clutching her stake tightly. She still couldn’t believe this was happening. She trusted him with everything she had. She gave herself to him, mind, body, and soul. And he betrayed her. He lied to her. She wondered how long he’d been killing again. She wondered if he climbed out of bed with her and went out to feed.

She shuddered at the thought of what had been going on right under her nose. She never dreamed it would come to this. But she had to try and remember he was a vampire. He didn’t have a soul like Angel had. There was nothing holding him back anymore. She had thought that his love for her changed him, but it was clear now that that was probably a clever line, to make her fall for him.

“It worked Spike. You got me.” She laughed bitterly to herself. “I’m so stupid!”

She made her way to his front door and kicked it open. She marched in with a look of determination on her face. She was trying desperately not to break down into tears and remain strong. Spike was not in the main room. She called out to him.

“Spike!”

She waited and saw him come up the ladder from downstairs. When he saw the wildness in her eyes, he immediately became concerned. He tried to go to her, but she held her hand up.

“Stop. Stay right there. Don’t come any closer to me.” She said angrily.

He looked at her completely confused.

“What? What’s wrong?”

“Don’t try and pretend with me. I know. I know all about what you’ve been up to.” She said trying to fight back tears.

“What? What the hell are you talking about?” He asked trying to move closer to her again.

She pulled her stake out and held it up, effectively stopping him in his tracks. He looked at her with disbelief.

“I know what you’ve done. And I know you’ve been lying to me about your chip. How could you do this to me?” She asked, with tears finally falling down her face.

“Buffy, what are you talking about? I haven’t lied to you. And whatever it is you think I’ve done, please tell me, cause I have no idea what you’re talking about.” He said running his hands through his hair desperately.

He was completely baffled as to what was going on, or what she was talking about. But clearly he was in trouble with her for some reason. He began to pace nervously.

“Willow told me that she saw you feeding again. She saw you kill someone. She said you were lying about the chip still working. How long Spike? How long have you been killing again? Was this thing with me all part of your plan? I mean, hey, it was a good one. You get to screw the Slayer and in return she lets you have free reign of her town. It was pretty clever of you, I have to admit.” Buffy said bitterly as she glared at him.

Spike’s head snapped around angrily.

“Willow told you this? Perfect. You actually believed her?” He asked incredulously.

“Of course I believed her. She’s my best friend.”

“Buffy, she’s lying. This wasn’t some evil plan of mine to subdue you so I could eat half of Sunnydale. This was her evil plan! Don’t you see? Did you even ask her about the amulet?” He asked her desperately.

“Amulet? What are you talking about?” Buffy asked completely confused.

“The Heart of Darkness? The amulet that she now has and is using for her benefit?” He said talking to her like she was an idiot.

“I don’t know about any amulet. And don’t try and change the subject. We’re talking about you and how dead you’re gonna be in about two minutes if you don’t start explaining yourself.” She said trying to be strong again.

He looked at her and shook his head. He put his head in his hands and tried to bite back the devastating emotion he was feeling.

“She got to you. She made you forget somehow. Buffy, Willow is lying!” He said desperately.

“Oh, right. And I should believe you because…”

“Because I’m telling the truth!”

“So I’m supposed to believe you, a soulless creature who’s been using me, over my best friend?” She said putting her hands on her hips.

“She’s not your friend! Not anymore. Can’t you see that?” He yelled. Then he laughed bitterly. “Of course you can’t see that. She’s got you under her spell.” He muttered.

“Willow would never lie to me. But you would.” Buffy said shaking her head sadly. Tears ran down her face and she wiped them away hastily.

He tried to approach her again, and she backed away. He stopped and looked at her sadly. Then he shook his head in frustration.

“She did it. She really did it. She said I was gonna wish I was dead, and she pulled it off. That fucking little bitch!” He shouted as he kicked one of his tables across the room angrily.

Buffy jumped at his violent outburst and she clutched her stake tighter.

“I don’t want you coming anywhere near me, Dawn, or any of my friends. If you do, or if I catch you with your next meal? You’re dust. You leave me no choice Spike.” Buffy said calmly, trying to keep from falling to her knees in despair.

“Buffy! Damn it! You have to believe me! My chip is still working. I haven’t killed anyone. I didn’t lie to you, I swear it. She’s messing with your mind.” He pleaded with her.

It felt like his whole world was ending again and he was powerless to stop it. When the day started, he had everything, and now he had lost it all in the blink of an eye.

“Okay Spike. You say your chip is still working? Hit me. I wanna see for myself. And don’t think I won’t be able to tell if you’re faking it.” She said challenging him.

“I’m not going to hit you.” He said through clenched teeth.

“Why not? Afraid I’ll only be confirming that you’re a liar? Or maybe you’re just afraid that you still can’t beat me?” She said bitterly.

“Buffy, this is ridiculous. I won’t do it.”

She walked over to him and dropped her stake at his feet. Then she looked up at him. With one swift move, she smashed her fist into his face. He reeled back, clutching his nose.

“Hit me!” She shouted, trying to goad him on.

“Stop it!” He shouted, trying to back away from her.

She punched him again.

“That’s for lying to me.” Another punch. “That’s for making me believe you.” A kick to the gut. “That’s for making me love you.”

Finally he had had enough. He grabbed her shoulders and tossed her away from him roughly. She hit the wall hard and the wind was knocked out of her. She felt pain coursing through her back and shoulders. For a moment she was stunned, then she looked at him for a reaction of some sort. She was looking for chip induced pain, but saw nothing. All she saw was sadness and a little surprise on his face.

The chip did not go off, he realized. The stupid thing did not go off. And Buffy noticed it. He slumped to the ground and sat there numbly. Somehow Willow must have disabled it. Now he really looked like a liar. Buffy would never believe him now. He had to admit that the little witch was certainly thorough. She’d screwed him good.

“Buffy…” Spike uttered softly.

“Stay away from me. If I ever see you again, you’re dust. Remember that.” She said bitterly, as she headed for the door.

She threw it open and ran out. It crashed behind her and the echo made Spike’s head throb. He stood up and paced frantically. Then he stopped and punched the wall as hard as he could. He could feel his knuckles pop and the cold stone tearing into his flesh. The pain felt good. It was at least a tangible pain. Not like the desperate ache, of his dead heart shattering into a million pieces. He had no idea how to fix this.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Part Three:

The Calm Before...

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