Disclaimer: I own none of this.
A short Explanation: There is a topic addressed in this story, not yet seen in this chapter, which is about the reason Spike went to Africa. Over the course of a couple weeks, I have discovered that some people have many different interpretations as to why he left. Some thought that it was to get the chip out, and others thought that he intended to acquire a soul and the writers were trying to be tricky. Either way, I will just let the readers know that, I too, have no true sense as to what he went there for, I simply guessed.
Authors note Ok, for those who care, this is my system. I write a chapter while listening to music reflecting my mood and the tone the chapter should hold. For example, Crash by Dave Mathews Band was playing while I wrote…the fourth chapter, or maybe the fifth. Before writing the chapter at all though, I have about four full pages of notes and ideas that I continue to add to. Then, once the chapter is written, I revise it. Then I begin the next chapter, while adding notes onto my other collection at the same time, and infrequently I revise the other chapter again and again furiously. Then I upload the first chapter after I am into my third. So I always have about two or three chapters lying about. Then I don't feel too pressed to get something out there. Depending on how happy I am with my work, it usually takes anywhere from one to four days to upload. To those who review, thank you. To those who don't…well I don't know what to say. I hope you like it, I suppose, and I hope I soon write a chapter stunning enough that you do review. I think my note is done…except I would like to say that I do really appreciate and love reviews. No flames, because they are rude and usually ignorant, but I don't mind constructive criticism at all. And if you don't like my story, fine tell me, just give me a reason! Don't leave me hangin,
Carrie
Chapter One
-Remembering Summer and the Search for the Sexy Shirt-
Buffy idly sorted through her closet, she was supposed to meet Xander and Willow at the Bronze in half an hour, and she had already wasted ten minutes in search of her "sexy shirt". The "sexy shirt" was in fact an essential part of Buffy's wardrobe, worn only when she was feeling especially promiscuous. Unfortunately, it was no where to be found.
Aggravated, she ran her fingers through her short hair, looked around the room for a moment in frustration, and then ran out into the hall and knocked on her sister's door. She went in with out waiting for a reply. "Dawn, did you take "the" shirt?"
Dawn turned around from her desk and laid down her pencil. Her hair was shorter, about shoulder length, and curled slightly. There was a hint of rouge on her lips and cheeks.
"What are you talking about?" She asked, annoyed at being interrupted while studying. "You just described every shirt you own, and I borrow your shirts all the-oh." She paused in sudden understanding. "You mean 'the' shirt? Buffy, you lost the 'sexy shirt'? Where is it?"
"Well if I lost it, then I obviously don't know where it is." Buffy replied rather tersely, already in the hall. For a second she almost went into her old room, the one which contained the twin sized bed and old posters, along with the heart ache and sorrow from a past which she had moved on from. She slept in her Mother's old room now, Willow had left it behind to live with Xander shortly after Tara's death, nearly three months ago. Only Buffy could find solace in the cream walls and large bed.
Buffy went back to the closet and regretfully snatched at a black, off the shoulder tee shirt, studying it with a frown before replacing her grey tank with the new find. She then headed towards the nightstand closest to the window, leisurely side stepping a small area rug with light green vines and pheasants decorating the trim. It covered the stain of Tara's blood. Buffy did not have the money to re-carpet the room, and the small rug served as a reminder, a memorial of sorts. She had never once stepped foot on it. At the nightstand she grabbed the keys to her house and put them in her pocket, also putting on a pair of silver earrings lying by the light. Finally, after putting on a black belt, she turned off the small lamp, extinguishing the soft glow it set about the room. Sharp shadows merged with darkness, and Buffy looked towards the window a moment before making her exit. The moon was shining brightly…a that moon had witnessed too many memories. Buffy turned away.
She walked back to Dawns room, waiting this time for her sister's response after knocking before she stepped in.
"You look nice," Dawn commented, observing her sister's soft face and large eyes, waves of honey and gold locks hanging loosely about her face. After closing a large textbook and sliding shut one of the desk drawers, Dawn spoke again. "Still no shirt?"
"No such luck."
"You'll find it." Dawn shrugged. She pushed back her chair and stood up, sliding her hands into her back pockets. "Are you leaving now? For the Bronze?"
"Yeah. There's pizza in the 'fridge…I'll be back in a couple of hours." Buffy gave Dawn a somewhat apologetic smile for leaving her behind.
"Hey, I'll be fine. I have a hot date with some popcorn and a microwave." Dawn began pushing Buffy out of the room playfully. "You have fun, be good, and all that jazz."
"Ok, ok. See ya'." Buffy shuffled down the stairs as Dawn watched her go.
"Bye." She called, and at the sound of the front door shutting, she quietly went back into her room.
Dawn re-opened the top draw of her desk and pulled out a cordless phone. She looked out the window, no emotion on her face as she watched Buffy step into a car. She put the phone to her ear, someone already on the other line.
"Sorry, yeah, that was Buffy." She paused. "No. She hasn't found out, and I don't plan on letting her."
Buffy slid into the car wearing an expression of apprehension. Jack leaned over and kissed her on the cheek, he was wearing a dark, olive green collared shirt. He stepped on the gas and they went down the road at a steady pace. Actually, Jack was a relatively steady guy, Buffy perceived. He stretched a built arm behind the head of her chair. Buffy studied him for a couple minutes. He had a strong jaw and dark brown eyes that revealed nothing. His hair was short and slicked back.
"Why are you looking at me like that?" Jack asked, shifting slightly and then switching on the radio. Please, Buffy thought, like he had never been stared at before.
"No reason," she said out loud.
"Whatever you say." He turned away from the road and looked at her, then smiled charmingly. He had very white teeth. "You look great. Really. Oh yeah, I brought this." He reached for the back seat, feeling around blindly before finding something and then placing it on Buffy's lap. It was a chocolate brown tank top with lace trim. The "sexy shirt."
"You forgot it in my room. I was going to let you know about it when you called, but since you never did…well there it is."
"Thanks. You know, I was in such a rush…I just…well, you know." Buffy looked every where except Jack's face.
"I figured something must have come up, you were already gone when I awoke… I got your note." He shifted again. It seemed, Buffy noticed, that Jack often shifted when he was uncomfortable. Buffy sighed, as she did whenever things were disquieting. It is a much more dramatic thing to do.
"That's good. I am glad you got the note…Jack." She tested the way his name felt on her tongue. It was a good name. He put his hand on her thigh as they approached the parking lot of the Bronze, and she studied him once again in contemplation. Jack was a good guy. A strong guy, a steady guy. Jack simply had to go.
"Hey kids. Been waiting long?" Buffy approached the couch where Willow and Xander were already sitting. She was smiling widely and carrying something in her hand.
"No, only a couple minutes. Hey…wasn't Jack supposed to come with you?" Willow asked, turning her head in search of him. Her red hair was cut short again, no longer than her chin, and her face was soft and clean.
"Jack had to hit the road," Buffy informed them, sitting down in a big comfy chair.
"Very clever. So, you dumped him?" Inquired Xander.
"Thank you, and yes I did."
Willow looked slightly confused. "But why? He seemed so nice and-"
"Charming and steady and blah, blah, blah. Yeah I know. Been there, done that." Buffy finished. "He was just so…you know. Jack. I mean come on, the name alone says enough."
"So, when did you break it to the poor devil?" Xander leaned forward slightly, eyebrows raised in question.
"Just now. In the parking lot," Buffy stated in a matter of fact way.
Xander let his head drop and hang before looking up in preparation for a sarcastic comment. "Wow…so you sleep with the guy, then let him drive you around before you break his sweet little heart. Need I remind you of Parker? You have now officially become his evil womanly counterpart."
"Yeah. We should be calling you Parka…or something. Parkina? Parketta?" Willow looked at Xander for help.
"Isn't a parka a coat? Or is it a shoe…" Buffy pondered.
"I think it is a type of shoe. Probably the kind someone's Grandmother would wear." Xander answered. That all sat quietly until Buffy shook her head in dismissal of the subject and held up the shirt she had been carrying.
"I got the 'sexy shirt' back, at least. I thought I had lost it, but I guess I forgot that I wore it a couple days ago when I went home with Jack."
Xander looked at her. "The sexy…oh that shirt. I remember that shirt."
"I bet Jack does too." Willow giggled.
"No one forgets the 'sexy shirt'. It is sacred and timeless, containing powers not even the gods can understand."
"Want me to put it in my bag?" Willow asked.
Buffy carelessly rolled it up into a ball and tossed to her friend. She then turned to face Xander. "So, talk to me. It's what we come here every Friday night for. What is on the agenda for Xander Harris?"
"Not much."
"Not much?" Willow pushed Xander playfully. "This man just happens to have date scheduled for Sunday afternoon."
"Oh Xander," cooed Buffy, "Another date with Anya? That is great…things are working out so well." Buffy glanced at Willow, still wearing a soft expression of relief and contentment. "Do you want to spend some time with me while he's gone, Will?" Ever since the incident, Buffy and Xander tried to keep Willow around at least one of the scoobs. Not out of suspicion, or distrust, but love and moral support.
"No, but thanks anyway. Actually, I am going to the cemetery to visit Tara's grave." She took an unnecessary breath before continuing lightly. "Dr. Johnson says it is an important part of the healing process. Learning how to grieve and all that."
"He's right." Xander nonchalantly rubbed Willow's leg. "How is Dawn?"
"You know, she's good. Almost done with summer school…she killed another vamp last night. She is getting skilled with the whole 'slayage' thing. That makes four so far this summer."
"She is pretty quick."
"No kidding. I mean, that doesn't make the sight of her in possible danger any easier, but hey. Nothing is easy."
"M'hmm" Willow agreed with a nod and raised eyebrows.
"I hear ya," Xander added, raising his beer. Buffy and Willow smiled, and everyone clinked bottles after Buffy ungracefully opened hers. They took a long swallow. Life wasn't easy, but at least it was better.
"So, do you think we should dance?" asked Willow. Buffy shrugged thoughtfully, checking out the crowd, and Xander snorted.
"Why would we do that?"
Clem sat sleeping in a chair, the TV murmuring softly. He moved his arm slightly, sometimes turning his head with a whisper, completely lost in a dream.
The sound of the door to the crypt opening caused him to start awake. Spilling his nacho chips, he looked up, bathed in the light of the moon. A figure sauntered in, still cloaked in darkness. Twenty feet away, a rough and tired, British voice spoke.
"My bike is outside. Bring it in."
Clem nodded in silent acquiescence, running out the door, his expression that of surprise.
Spike made his way in only a couple more steps before falling to his knees dramatically. Then, he collapsed.
A short Explanation: There is a topic addressed in this story, not yet seen in this chapter, which is about the reason Spike went to Africa. Over the course of a couple weeks, I have discovered that some people have many different interpretations as to why he left. Some thought that it was to get the chip out, and others thought that he intended to acquire a soul and the writers were trying to be tricky. Either way, I will just let the readers know that, I too, have no true sense as to what he went there for, I simply guessed.
Authors note Ok, for those who care, this is my system. I write a chapter while listening to music reflecting my mood and the tone the chapter should hold. For example, Crash by Dave Mathews Band was playing while I wrote…the fourth chapter, or maybe the fifth. Before writing the chapter at all though, I have about four full pages of notes and ideas that I continue to add to. Then, once the chapter is written, I revise it. Then I begin the next chapter, while adding notes onto my other collection at the same time, and infrequently I revise the other chapter again and again furiously. Then I upload the first chapter after I am into my third. So I always have about two or three chapters lying about. Then I don't feel too pressed to get something out there. Depending on how happy I am with my work, it usually takes anywhere from one to four days to upload. To those who review, thank you. To those who don't…well I don't know what to say. I hope you like it, I suppose, and I hope I soon write a chapter stunning enough that you do review. I think my note is done…except I would like to say that I do really appreciate and love reviews. No flames, because they are rude and usually ignorant, but I don't mind constructive criticism at all. And if you don't like my story, fine tell me, just give me a reason! Don't leave me hangin,
Carrie
Chapter One
-Remembering Summer and the Search for the Sexy Shirt-
Buffy idly sorted through her closet, she was supposed to meet Xander and Willow at the Bronze in half an hour, and she had already wasted ten minutes in search of her "sexy shirt". The "sexy shirt" was in fact an essential part of Buffy's wardrobe, worn only when she was feeling especially promiscuous. Unfortunately, it was no where to be found.
Aggravated, she ran her fingers through her short hair, looked around the room for a moment in frustration, and then ran out into the hall and knocked on her sister's door. She went in with out waiting for a reply. "Dawn, did you take "the" shirt?"
Dawn turned around from her desk and laid down her pencil. Her hair was shorter, about shoulder length, and curled slightly. There was a hint of rouge on her lips and cheeks.
"What are you talking about?" She asked, annoyed at being interrupted while studying. "You just described every shirt you own, and I borrow your shirts all the-oh." She paused in sudden understanding. "You mean 'the' shirt? Buffy, you lost the 'sexy shirt'? Where is it?"
"Well if I lost it, then I obviously don't know where it is." Buffy replied rather tersely, already in the hall. For a second she almost went into her old room, the one which contained the twin sized bed and old posters, along with the heart ache and sorrow from a past which she had moved on from. She slept in her Mother's old room now, Willow had left it behind to live with Xander shortly after Tara's death, nearly three months ago. Only Buffy could find solace in the cream walls and large bed.
Buffy went back to the closet and regretfully snatched at a black, off the shoulder tee shirt, studying it with a frown before replacing her grey tank with the new find. She then headed towards the nightstand closest to the window, leisurely side stepping a small area rug with light green vines and pheasants decorating the trim. It covered the stain of Tara's blood. Buffy did not have the money to re-carpet the room, and the small rug served as a reminder, a memorial of sorts. She had never once stepped foot on it. At the nightstand she grabbed the keys to her house and put them in her pocket, also putting on a pair of silver earrings lying by the light. Finally, after putting on a black belt, she turned off the small lamp, extinguishing the soft glow it set about the room. Sharp shadows merged with darkness, and Buffy looked towards the window a moment before making her exit. The moon was shining brightly…a that moon had witnessed too many memories. Buffy turned away.
She walked back to Dawns room, waiting this time for her sister's response after knocking before she stepped in.
"You look nice," Dawn commented, observing her sister's soft face and large eyes, waves of honey and gold locks hanging loosely about her face. After closing a large textbook and sliding shut one of the desk drawers, Dawn spoke again. "Still no shirt?"
"No such luck."
"You'll find it." Dawn shrugged. She pushed back her chair and stood up, sliding her hands into her back pockets. "Are you leaving now? For the Bronze?"
"Yeah. There's pizza in the 'fridge…I'll be back in a couple of hours." Buffy gave Dawn a somewhat apologetic smile for leaving her behind.
"Hey, I'll be fine. I have a hot date with some popcorn and a microwave." Dawn began pushing Buffy out of the room playfully. "You have fun, be good, and all that jazz."
"Ok, ok. See ya'." Buffy shuffled down the stairs as Dawn watched her go.
"Bye." She called, and at the sound of the front door shutting, she quietly went back into her room.
Dawn re-opened the top draw of her desk and pulled out a cordless phone. She looked out the window, no emotion on her face as she watched Buffy step into a car. She put the phone to her ear, someone already on the other line.
"Sorry, yeah, that was Buffy." She paused. "No. She hasn't found out, and I don't plan on letting her."
Buffy slid into the car wearing an expression of apprehension. Jack leaned over and kissed her on the cheek, he was wearing a dark, olive green collared shirt. He stepped on the gas and they went down the road at a steady pace. Actually, Jack was a relatively steady guy, Buffy perceived. He stretched a built arm behind the head of her chair. Buffy studied him for a couple minutes. He had a strong jaw and dark brown eyes that revealed nothing. His hair was short and slicked back.
"Why are you looking at me like that?" Jack asked, shifting slightly and then switching on the radio. Please, Buffy thought, like he had never been stared at before.
"No reason," she said out loud.
"Whatever you say." He turned away from the road and looked at her, then smiled charmingly. He had very white teeth. "You look great. Really. Oh yeah, I brought this." He reached for the back seat, feeling around blindly before finding something and then placing it on Buffy's lap. It was a chocolate brown tank top with lace trim. The "sexy shirt."
"You forgot it in my room. I was going to let you know about it when you called, but since you never did…well there it is."
"Thanks. You know, I was in such a rush…I just…well, you know." Buffy looked every where except Jack's face.
"I figured something must have come up, you were already gone when I awoke… I got your note." He shifted again. It seemed, Buffy noticed, that Jack often shifted when he was uncomfortable. Buffy sighed, as she did whenever things were disquieting. It is a much more dramatic thing to do.
"That's good. I am glad you got the note…Jack." She tested the way his name felt on her tongue. It was a good name. He put his hand on her thigh as they approached the parking lot of the Bronze, and she studied him once again in contemplation. Jack was a good guy. A strong guy, a steady guy. Jack simply had to go.
"Hey kids. Been waiting long?" Buffy approached the couch where Willow and Xander were already sitting. She was smiling widely and carrying something in her hand.
"No, only a couple minutes. Hey…wasn't Jack supposed to come with you?" Willow asked, turning her head in search of him. Her red hair was cut short again, no longer than her chin, and her face was soft and clean.
"Jack had to hit the road," Buffy informed them, sitting down in a big comfy chair.
"Very clever. So, you dumped him?" Inquired Xander.
"Thank you, and yes I did."
Willow looked slightly confused. "But why? He seemed so nice and-"
"Charming and steady and blah, blah, blah. Yeah I know. Been there, done that." Buffy finished. "He was just so…you know. Jack. I mean come on, the name alone says enough."
"So, when did you break it to the poor devil?" Xander leaned forward slightly, eyebrows raised in question.
"Just now. In the parking lot," Buffy stated in a matter of fact way.
Xander let his head drop and hang before looking up in preparation for a sarcastic comment. "Wow…so you sleep with the guy, then let him drive you around before you break his sweet little heart. Need I remind you of Parker? You have now officially become his evil womanly counterpart."
"Yeah. We should be calling you Parka…or something. Parkina? Parketta?" Willow looked at Xander for help.
"Isn't a parka a coat? Or is it a shoe…" Buffy pondered.
"I think it is a type of shoe. Probably the kind someone's Grandmother would wear." Xander answered. That all sat quietly until Buffy shook her head in dismissal of the subject and held up the shirt she had been carrying.
"I got the 'sexy shirt' back, at least. I thought I had lost it, but I guess I forgot that I wore it a couple days ago when I went home with Jack."
Xander looked at her. "The sexy…oh that shirt. I remember that shirt."
"I bet Jack does too." Willow giggled.
"No one forgets the 'sexy shirt'. It is sacred and timeless, containing powers not even the gods can understand."
"Want me to put it in my bag?" Willow asked.
Buffy carelessly rolled it up into a ball and tossed to her friend. She then turned to face Xander. "So, talk to me. It's what we come here every Friday night for. What is on the agenda for Xander Harris?"
"Not much."
"Not much?" Willow pushed Xander playfully. "This man just happens to have date scheduled for Sunday afternoon."
"Oh Xander," cooed Buffy, "Another date with Anya? That is great…things are working out so well." Buffy glanced at Willow, still wearing a soft expression of relief and contentment. "Do you want to spend some time with me while he's gone, Will?" Ever since the incident, Buffy and Xander tried to keep Willow around at least one of the scoobs. Not out of suspicion, or distrust, but love and moral support.
"No, but thanks anyway. Actually, I am going to the cemetery to visit Tara's grave." She took an unnecessary breath before continuing lightly. "Dr. Johnson says it is an important part of the healing process. Learning how to grieve and all that."
"He's right." Xander nonchalantly rubbed Willow's leg. "How is Dawn?"
"You know, she's good. Almost done with summer school…she killed another vamp last night. She is getting skilled with the whole 'slayage' thing. That makes four so far this summer."
"She is pretty quick."
"No kidding. I mean, that doesn't make the sight of her in possible danger any easier, but hey. Nothing is easy."
"M'hmm" Willow agreed with a nod and raised eyebrows.
"I hear ya," Xander added, raising his beer. Buffy and Willow smiled, and everyone clinked bottles after Buffy ungracefully opened hers. They took a long swallow. Life wasn't easy, but at least it was better.
"So, do you think we should dance?" asked Willow. Buffy shrugged thoughtfully, checking out the crowd, and Xander snorted.
"Why would we do that?"
Clem sat sleeping in a chair, the TV murmuring softly. He moved his arm slightly, sometimes turning his head with a whisper, completely lost in a dream.
The sound of the door to the crypt opening caused him to start awake. Spilling his nacho chips, he looked up, bathed in the light of the moon. A figure sauntered in, still cloaked in darkness. Twenty feet away, a rough and tired, British voice spoke.
"My bike is outside. Bring it in."
Clem nodded in silent acquiescence, running out the door, his expression that of surprise.
Spike made his way in only a couple more steps before falling to his knees dramatically. Then, he collapsed.