Unlike any other day everyone on the Bebop slept until noon. This week was highly stressful so everyone needed the sleep. One by one the ship woke up. First Jet and Alice woke up then Spike, leaving Elisabeth to sleep as long as she wanted. Be it she had a bullet hole in her chest she was allowed to be in bed.
"So you're up. How did you sleep Spike, and where did you sleep?" Asked Jet as he looked up from his coffee.
"I slept in my bed where do you think I slept?"
"But you were on the couch when Alice and I went to sleep."
"Ed woke me up. She said something about not wanting me to sleep on the evil sofa."
"The sofa is not evil."
"Yeah the green teddy bear is."
"What's up with the green teddy bear? I'm totally lost."
Spike sat stretched out on the couch. "Nothing Jet. So where's Alice?"
"She's in the shower I think."
"Have you ever thought about popping the question with her?"
Jet put the newspaper he was looking at down then picked up his coffee mug. Taking a long sip he put it down then looked Spike straight in the face. "I'm afraid she'll say no."
"I highly doubt that. You two just seem perfect together or something. I'm sure you know how I am when it comes to that romance stuff."
"Not really. I've never seen you really heads over heels for a girl."
"My point exactly. I don't get caught up in the whole girlfriend/boyfriend thing."
"What if Ed has taken a shining to you?"
"Don't say that."
"Why not? It maybe true, and I think you like her as well."
The tall, fluffy haired bounty hunter glared at his partner. "I have no need for a women in my life none what so ever. The last woman I was with…" His voice trailed off.
"But a man always needs the love of a women. It's impossible to think you can live your life avoiding love. You can't Spike."
"I can and I will. And to let you know Jet, the last woman I was with was shot. I watched her fall to the ground and I held her as the life slipped from her body. I don't need someone reckless like Ed to go and die on me."
"And once again Spike Spiegel is acting like the spoiled brat he is. Always thinking of himself and not giving a damn about the people who feel the most for him."
"That's right Jet." He got up off the couch and walked back towards his room.
In Spike's room he relaxed on his bed. It was just one of those days one doesn't want to do anything. He lie looking at the ceiling thinking about what he told Jet and wondering if it were true or not. Did he really care for Ed?
"Is this just a phase or something? I mean why am I so interested in someone like her?"
Fifteen minutes later Ed peeked her head into Spike's room. She was all smiles like always.
"How did you sleep last night? Isn't your bed much better then that cold couch?"
He looked up at her but stayed in his place. The feelings inside of him stirring once again but they weren't the feelings like he had when he went to get the bounty head. These feelings made him feel like a new man, he hadn't felt that way in a long time. The last time he felt that way he was with Julia.
"I slept pretty good and yes my bed is much better then the couch." He closed his eyes then opened them slowly, a smile growing across his lips. "How about you, how did you sleep?"
"Not the best sleep I ever had but I guess I slept good thanks for asking."
"I have a question Ed, when did you stop talking in the third person?"
"When I was six-teen. One day I said I instead of Ed and it stuck."
There was a long pause between the two where they just looked back at each other. Then Spike sat up in bed and motioned her over to him. Uneasy at this she inched her way to him, sitting on the edge of the bed.
"Yes?"
"I thought that maybe you'd like to sit instead of standing. I'm not going to bite you."
Smiling and giggling she nodded. "I know. I don't bite as well."
"That's good to know. The only one who really bites around here is Ein. I don't know why he doesn't like me."
"He can tell when people don't like him so he keeps his guard up around those type of people."
"Smart little thing aren't you?"
"You know it."
Once again there was that eerie pause. As if for once in their lives they didn't know what to say.
"Where will you go once the Bebop is gone? You can't stay here forever you know."
"To tell you the truth Spike I have know clue. Hopefully by the time Jet gets rid of the Bebop I'll be getting married or married."
"Married huh? That word is so final."
"No, death is final. Marriage is the bond between two people who love each other so much nothing can separate them. I want to be that happy one-day. When I get married, will you come?"
"Sure I guess. That's if I'm still around. You don't sound happy here, are you?"
"Yeah. I'm happy here with you, Jet and Ein. You three are the men who mean the most to me. I love you guys so much."
"Love?"
"Yes. I love you Spike…and Jet and Ein."
Spike looked up at Elisabeth and blinked a few times. Did Julia ever tell him she loved him? She did, he was sure of it but he couldn't think of one time right off the top of his head.
"Thanks." He smiled and then was hugged tightly by Ed sending him down against his bed. "Ow."
Ed let go slightly and smiled. "Did I hurt you?"
"No, not really. Just you're elbow to my ribs felt so good…plus you're a forceful little devil."
"I'm so sorry. You know I didn't mean to hurt you, right?"
"I know I know." He looked up at her then raised an eyebrow thinking how very wrong they must have looked at the time. Spike lying back against his bed with Ed's arms wrapped around his chest. "Are you going to let go of me?"
"Oh.. Yeah… right." She let go of him and sat up. The smile seemed to be tattooed to her face.
"Doesn't the hole in your chest hurt?"
"Like hell but it's fine. Don't really mind the pain all too much."
"At least you're not a baby."
"Nope, not at all. Do you wanna go and get a drink with me later this week? I wish I could go now but my medication shouldn't be taken alcohol."
"Let me look at my planner." Spike pulled out his wallet, then his passport. Looking over it slowly he smiled. "I'm totally booked, with nothing."
Quickly Elisabeth grabbed the passport from Spike looking at the information.
"Spike Spiegel, 2046 (27), born on Mars, six foot one, one hundred and eighty pounds, brown eyes, black-green hair."
"Did you learn anything new?"
"No. Wanna look at mine?"
"Why not."
The girl jumped up, holding her chest then ran off. Not five minutes later she came back with her passport. Spike took it from her looking it over slowly.
"Elisabeth Dean, 2060 (23), born on Earth, five foot nine, one hundred and twenty-two pounds, amber eyes, red hair."
"Learn anything new?"
"Yeah, we both need to start eating more."
"Can't help that I'm always running my ass off after a bounty. I also can't help the fact that the Bebop isn't always filled with food. Plus I can get hyper some times well when I'm like that I don't eat much."
"What are you two doing?" Alice looked at the two and smiled.
"Talking about us wasting away to nothing." Ed fell back onto the bed giggling, her head landing on Spike's knees.
"I keep telling you to eat more but you don't listen."
"I do too! I would eat all the time if I could but be it we lack food on the Bebop I can't do that."
"How about I take you three to dinner tonight?"
"Really?"
"How would you like it Spike?" The two girls looked over to Spike who was sleeping.
"He's out like a light."
"You better go. See ya in a few Elisabeth."
"Bye bye Alice."
When Alice was gone Ed looked down at Spike. He slept flat on his back, his hands behind his head. Looking around Elisabeth did the one thing she never thought she'd do. Taking a deep breath then letting it out she leaned down to Spike's face placing her lips to his. She kissed him softly then curled up at the foot of the bed, falling asleep herself. Little did Ed know but Spike wasn't asleep. Moving his head slightly he down at her and smiled. The kiss wasn't anything he thought she would do and he wished he could have kissed her back. When Ed was surely asleep he moved, turning down the sheets on the bed then he placed his feet on the floor standing up. He walked over to Ed and picked her up then placed her under the covers, after pulling off her shoes. Just like she did he leaned in pressing his lips against hers as she slept. Pulling away he covered her up and left the room.
"Where is Ed? We're going out tonight." Said Jet as soon as Spike entered the main room.
"She's sleeping."
"I think a night out of the Bebop would be good for her."
Alice walked into the room putting earrings in. "Spike you're awake."
"Yeah. I'm thinking a shower would be good. Don't want to go out looking like a mess."
"Shave while you're at it, stubble doesn't look good on you."
"Why should you care how I look? Should I grow a goatee?"
"You two be good. Where's Elisabeth? She needs her bandages changed plus I want to have a little girl talk with her."
"She's on my bed, sleeping." Spike sat down, picking up the newspaper Jet had once.
"Thanks, remember be good you two."
Alice left and walked to Spike's room. Just like he had said she was fast asleep in his bed.
"Elisabeth. Honey wake up." She whispered sitting on the bed next to her.
Yawning and stretching Ed sat up. "Hey Alice."
"So you crawled under the sheets?"
"No, I fell asleep at the foot of the bed. Spike must have put me here."
"I really think he likes you."
"I don't know. I mean I know I like him but…"
"Jet thinks the same thing. So get up you. Spike is in the shower and he'll want to get in here to get some clothes on. Unless you want to see his skinny butt in a towel I suggest you leave."
"Ok, I'm leaving." She got out of bed and walked with Alice passing Spike who was going to his room and like Alice said he was just in a towel.
"Spike get some clothing on, this isn't a nudist colony."
"I'm not nude." He blushed slightly and walked a little faster so Ed wouldn't get another cheap shot at him.
It was 7:00 P.M when everyone was ready. Alice was taking them to a little pub at the edge of town. The pub was known for their home cooking and their beer. When Elisabeth made her way into the main room Spike couldn't keep his eyes off of her. She wasn't wearing anything out of the normal, a yellow button up fitted men's dress shirt and a pair of blue jeans, but her happiness seemed to be rubbing off on him.
"Looks like you stole Spike's clothes." Jet laughed as he made his way down the street.
"She's too small to fit in my clothes. My hands could fit around her waist."
Ed smiled as Spike and herself walked behind Jet and Alice. "I doubt that one Spike."
"I keep telling you to eat more Elisabeth but do you listen? No, never listen to someone who is twice your age."
"Here we are."
The four walked in to the pub and looked around. It had pool tables and darts towards the back, the bar to the right and tables to the left of the door.
"Hello, how many tonight?" A tall blonde woman asked.
Alice replied. "Four."
"Fallow me."
The group fallowed the beautiful waitress; Ed being sure Spike would flirt with her. They sat at a table with Spike and Ed on one side and Jet and Alice on the other.
"What can I get you guys to drink tonight?"
"I'll have a be…a coke." Elisabeth sighed.
"I'll have the same."
Alice and Jet looked at each other in shock that Spike didn't get a beer. They guessed he didn't want Ed to feel bad.
"We'll both have a beer, thanks."
"I'll be right back."
"I wish I could have a beer. Not fair!"
"Don't whine Elisabeth."
"I'm not whining."
"Elisabeth, well I'll be damned. How are you?" Said a man from behind the red headed girl.
"Hello Brad. I'm pretty good, and yourself?" She turned slightly and smiled. Brad was one of Ed's ex-boyfriends.
"Better now that I've seen you. Where have you been as of lately? We miss you down at the Outlaw Tavern."
"Here, there, everywhere."
"Who's that?" Spike whispered to Jet.
"That's one of Ed's ex-boyfriends. He's a jerk who cheated on her."
"I see. Thanks for the information." He looked back at the dark haired man and placed one of his arms around Elisabeth's chair.
"Well it was good talking to you. I have to get back to my darts game. See ya later Ed." Brad moved from Spike's glair.
"Bye Brad."
"Here are your drinks guys. Here's some menus if you guys want something to eat." The blonde sat the menus in front of everyone, winking at Spike. He only raised an eyebrow then looked down at the menu.
"Thanks."
"If you guys need anything just call, name's Cindy."
"Okay Cindy." Alice smiled as she watched the girl leave.
Spike looked over to Jet. "What's good here?"
"Everything is good. My personal favorite is the barbeque ribs. Messy put good."
"I love to get messy with food. Messy is good but then you have to jump into the shower and that's fun too!"
"Calm down Ed."
"Sorry, I just can't help myself."
"It's ok. I don't mind you being a little hyper." Spike shot Elisabeth a warm smile then a slight wink.
A few minutes later the waitress returned with a big smile across her painted lips. She looked at the group.
"Now what can I get you?"
Elisabeth took her straw from her mouth. "I'll have the barbequed ribs."
"Me too." Said Spike as he let the fingers from the hand around Ed limply strokes her side.
"I'd like the fish platter."
"Sir?" Cindy looked to Jet.
"I'd like the steak and potatoes meal."
"Ok, I'll be back in a few with your meals."
"I can't wait till I can get all messy."
"You're not going to roll in it or anything are ya?"
"Now why would I do that Spike?"
"Why don't you two go and play pool or something?"
"Sounds good, wanna play Ed?"
"Bring it on fluffy."
The two got up and walked to the bar paying for an hour game. They both grabbed a cue stick making their way to a pool table in the corner.
"Do you want to break?"
"Is this a pity shot?"
"Why would I pity you?"
"Because I'm injured. I don't want your pity Spike."
"Then what do you want?" He smiled fixing the balls then stood back. "Ladies first."
"What do you mean what do I want? I only want to wipe the floor with you. I am going to beat you"
Smiling Spike took a step back letting Ed move around the table then break the balls. She watched them as they rolled in every direction.
"Don't get cocky little girl."
"You're turn Spike."
He leaned over the table, taking aim then hit the cue ball sending a solid into the right pocket.
"Brat."
"I'm not a brat, I'm just good at everything I do."
"But you can't do everything. Your turn again hot shot."
"Can't is not in my vocabulary."
Down to the wire, one ball left each and it was Ed's turn. She concentrated and eyed the two objects in front of her then smiled.
"Can you do it?"
"Why couldn't I?"
"Just asking."
Slowly she leaned over the table then moved the cue stick letting her ball stop right before it went into the pocket. To her left Spike was laughing, chuckling with a cigarette between his lips.
"And what is so funny Mr. Man?"
He looked down at her as she stood in front of him, placing his hands on her shoulders. "Nothing."
"Then why are you laughing?"
"Can't I laugh?" His eyes met hers, he smiled bring his face closer to hers.
"I thought 'can't' wasn't in your vocabulary."
"Your goal in life is to show me I'm wrong isn't it?"
"No, it's your turn." Ed bit her bottom lip lightly gazing up at Spike.
"Yeah, right."
Letting his hands fall from Elisabeth's body he sunk his ball and put his cue stick up. Walking back over to Ed he put out his cigarette.
"I do believe we have perfect timing. Our dinner is here."
"Food, anything is better then hospital food."
"Anything huh?"
"Fine almost anything."
Together the two walked back to the table and sat down. The meals were huge but so weren't their appetite.
"Who won?"
"No one, it was a tie."
"A tie? Spike I know you better then that. You play to win."
"People change over the years. You and Ed changed so why can't I?"
"Hush up you two and eat." Ed's fingers were already covered in the barbeque sauce. She happily licked her fingers then smiled.
"Is it good?"
"Oh yeah."
Spike picked a rib up and bit into it, and Elisabeth was right it was good. He watched her as she eat then went back to his own little world.
"Hey Spike."
"Huh?"
As soon as he turned his head his cheek was met with four sticky fingers. Ed smeared the gooey red sauce across his cheek. Then she removed the fingers and licked them clean.
"Ewww… Spike how are you going to get that off?" Alice wiped her mouth with a napkin watching the two.
"I don't know. Water and soap sounds good."
"Don't do that. That's perfectly good barbeque sauce." Elisabeth leaned towards Spike licking the fingerprints off his cheek.
"Why did you do that?"
"Just something I wanted to do. Sorry, I'm guessing that I shouldn't have done that."
"No, it's fine."
Alice watched the two and smiled. "Stop flirting you two."
"We are not flirting."
"Down Spike. It's cute, so don't worry."
Later that night the four finally made their way home. Jet and Alice were three sheets to the wind.
"Jet, how many did you drink tonight?"
"One too many I'd say." Elisabeth smiled.
"I'm old enough to know how to handle", He hiccupped "my booze. I don't tell you how to live your life now do I? So do me a favor and don't tell me how to live mine."
"How about this, we take you to Alice's house be it we are closer and Spike and I can go back to the Bebop."
"You just want to have the Bebop to yourself."
Spike looked at Elisabeth then at Jet. "You told me to keep my hands to myself."
"Good boy, now you two kids go. I can make my way to Alice's house."
"I won't let anything happen to him guys."
"Thanks Alice, see ya later guys."
The two "old" people went their way and the younger kids went off home to the Bebop.
"Those two are so funny."
"What's so funny about a drunk Jet?"
"You're so dense Spike I swear."
"I can't wait till I get home."
"And why is that?"
"So I can bum around on the couch."
"Typical male for you."
"I'm far from typical." He smiled at Ed as she walked next to him.
"Tell me about it. When I get home I have to change my bandages, after a shower. Then I think I'm going to turn off for the night."
Spike looked at Ed with a smirk. "So you're turned on right now?"
"I don't know why I would be."
"Duh, you have a amazing man next to you. He's tall, dark and handsome."
"Now where is this amazing man you're talking about?" Elisabeth looked around.
"It's me! Can't you tell?"
"I want my money back."
"Smart ass. So are you really turned on?"
"You'll never know."
The duo stopped out side the air hatch. Elisabeth dipped into the ship then kicked off her shoes. Spike watched her as she went off towards her room.
"Elisabeth, come here."
"Why?" She called from down the hall.
"I want to tell you something."
When Ed walked into the room he walked over to the girl, standing in front of her he smiled.
"What is it?"
"I… it's nothing." He leaned his face down kissing Ed lightly.
Pulling away Ed smiled. "What was that all about?"
"Just seeing if I could turn you on because you need to be turned on before you can be turned off."
"You're doing at good job."
"Really?"
"How long does this turning on process last? I want to get a good nights sleep you know."
"It last as long as you want it to last." He kissed her again, her lips meeting his own.
When she pulled away she winked and turn towards her room.
"I need a shower first then I can wrap my bandages then go to sleep."
"Huh?"
"Good night Spike."
"Wait a minute little girl."
Elisabeth turned to face Spike, "Yes?"
"Can't your shower wait?"
"Why would I want to wait?"
"Are you playing hard to get?"
"No, well yes. There is something that makes this whole thing slightly uncomfortable with me."
"Whatever it is it's fine. Is it scares or something it's nothing really because I have just as many if not more then you."
"I don't know how to say this, in that case it doesn't matter right now."
"C'mon tell me."
"Spike, I'm still…a..virgin." She muttered.
"A… virgin?" He almost choked on his words.
"Yeah. I haven't found the right man yet and I don't just want some man to use me for my body and what not."
"I understand. You go and take your shower, if you need me I'll be found on the couch."
Turning towards her room once again she sighed, figuring that would be his reaction. He seemed so into her just a few moments ago then BAM he didn't want her anymore. She was a freak, a sideshow, and a virgin. She went and jumped into the shower to deal with her thoughts.
"A virgin, wow. How are you going to handle this one?"
Spike indeed wanted Elisabeth. She was amazing and gave him a feeling not even Julia gave him. She gave him the feeling of wholeness, of life, and of aw at the everyday things one would take for granted. With that in mind Spike went into planning, he wanted to find a night to make perfect for Ed. He wanted his self to be her first and he wanted it to be perfect. In a week or two he would make his move and in a week or two he would change Ed's life.
"So you're up. How did you sleep Spike, and where did you sleep?" Asked Jet as he looked up from his coffee.
"I slept in my bed where do you think I slept?"
"But you were on the couch when Alice and I went to sleep."
"Ed woke me up. She said something about not wanting me to sleep on the evil sofa."
"The sofa is not evil."
"Yeah the green teddy bear is."
"What's up with the green teddy bear? I'm totally lost."
Spike sat stretched out on the couch. "Nothing Jet. So where's Alice?"
"She's in the shower I think."
"Have you ever thought about popping the question with her?"
Jet put the newspaper he was looking at down then picked up his coffee mug. Taking a long sip he put it down then looked Spike straight in the face. "I'm afraid she'll say no."
"I highly doubt that. You two just seem perfect together or something. I'm sure you know how I am when it comes to that romance stuff."
"Not really. I've never seen you really heads over heels for a girl."
"My point exactly. I don't get caught up in the whole girlfriend/boyfriend thing."
"What if Ed has taken a shining to you?"
"Don't say that."
"Why not? It maybe true, and I think you like her as well."
The tall, fluffy haired bounty hunter glared at his partner. "I have no need for a women in my life none what so ever. The last woman I was with…" His voice trailed off.
"But a man always needs the love of a women. It's impossible to think you can live your life avoiding love. You can't Spike."
"I can and I will. And to let you know Jet, the last woman I was with was shot. I watched her fall to the ground and I held her as the life slipped from her body. I don't need someone reckless like Ed to go and die on me."
"And once again Spike Spiegel is acting like the spoiled brat he is. Always thinking of himself and not giving a damn about the people who feel the most for him."
"That's right Jet." He got up off the couch and walked back towards his room.
In Spike's room he relaxed on his bed. It was just one of those days one doesn't want to do anything. He lie looking at the ceiling thinking about what he told Jet and wondering if it were true or not. Did he really care for Ed?
"Is this just a phase or something? I mean why am I so interested in someone like her?"
Fifteen minutes later Ed peeked her head into Spike's room. She was all smiles like always.
"How did you sleep last night? Isn't your bed much better then that cold couch?"
He looked up at her but stayed in his place. The feelings inside of him stirring once again but they weren't the feelings like he had when he went to get the bounty head. These feelings made him feel like a new man, he hadn't felt that way in a long time. The last time he felt that way he was with Julia.
"I slept pretty good and yes my bed is much better then the couch." He closed his eyes then opened them slowly, a smile growing across his lips. "How about you, how did you sleep?"
"Not the best sleep I ever had but I guess I slept good thanks for asking."
"I have a question Ed, when did you stop talking in the third person?"
"When I was six-teen. One day I said I instead of Ed and it stuck."
There was a long pause between the two where they just looked back at each other. Then Spike sat up in bed and motioned her over to him. Uneasy at this she inched her way to him, sitting on the edge of the bed.
"Yes?"
"I thought that maybe you'd like to sit instead of standing. I'm not going to bite you."
Smiling and giggling she nodded. "I know. I don't bite as well."
"That's good to know. The only one who really bites around here is Ein. I don't know why he doesn't like me."
"He can tell when people don't like him so he keeps his guard up around those type of people."
"Smart little thing aren't you?"
"You know it."
Once again there was that eerie pause. As if for once in their lives they didn't know what to say.
"Where will you go once the Bebop is gone? You can't stay here forever you know."
"To tell you the truth Spike I have know clue. Hopefully by the time Jet gets rid of the Bebop I'll be getting married or married."
"Married huh? That word is so final."
"No, death is final. Marriage is the bond between two people who love each other so much nothing can separate them. I want to be that happy one-day. When I get married, will you come?"
"Sure I guess. That's if I'm still around. You don't sound happy here, are you?"
"Yeah. I'm happy here with you, Jet and Ein. You three are the men who mean the most to me. I love you guys so much."
"Love?"
"Yes. I love you Spike…and Jet and Ein."
Spike looked up at Elisabeth and blinked a few times. Did Julia ever tell him she loved him? She did, he was sure of it but he couldn't think of one time right off the top of his head.
"Thanks." He smiled and then was hugged tightly by Ed sending him down against his bed. "Ow."
Ed let go slightly and smiled. "Did I hurt you?"
"No, not really. Just you're elbow to my ribs felt so good…plus you're a forceful little devil."
"I'm so sorry. You know I didn't mean to hurt you, right?"
"I know I know." He looked up at her then raised an eyebrow thinking how very wrong they must have looked at the time. Spike lying back against his bed with Ed's arms wrapped around his chest. "Are you going to let go of me?"
"Oh.. Yeah… right." She let go of him and sat up. The smile seemed to be tattooed to her face.
"Doesn't the hole in your chest hurt?"
"Like hell but it's fine. Don't really mind the pain all too much."
"At least you're not a baby."
"Nope, not at all. Do you wanna go and get a drink with me later this week? I wish I could go now but my medication shouldn't be taken alcohol."
"Let me look at my planner." Spike pulled out his wallet, then his passport. Looking over it slowly he smiled. "I'm totally booked, with nothing."
Quickly Elisabeth grabbed the passport from Spike looking at the information.
"Spike Spiegel, 2046 (27), born on Mars, six foot one, one hundred and eighty pounds, brown eyes, black-green hair."
"Did you learn anything new?"
"No. Wanna look at mine?"
"Why not."
The girl jumped up, holding her chest then ran off. Not five minutes later she came back with her passport. Spike took it from her looking it over slowly.
"Elisabeth Dean, 2060 (23), born on Earth, five foot nine, one hundred and twenty-two pounds, amber eyes, red hair."
"Learn anything new?"
"Yeah, we both need to start eating more."
"Can't help that I'm always running my ass off after a bounty. I also can't help the fact that the Bebop isn't always filled with food. Plus I can get hyper some times well when I'm like that I don't eat much."
"What are you two doing?" Alice looked at the two and smiled.
"Talking about us wasting away to nothing." Ed fell back onto the bed giggling, her head landing on Spike's knees.
"I keep telling you to eat more but you don't listen."
"I do too! I would eat all the time if I could but be it we lack food on the Bebop I can't do that."
"How about I take you three to dinner tonight?"
"Really?"
"How would you like it Spike?" The two girls looked over to Spike who was sleeping.
"He's out like a light."
"You better go. See ya in a few Elisabeth."
"Bye bye Alice."
When Alice was gone Ed looked down at Spike. He slept flat on his back, his hands behind his head. Looking around Elisabeth did the one thing she never thought she'd do. Taking a deep breath then letting it out she leaned down to Spike's face placing her lips to his. She kissed him softly then curled up at the foot of the bed, falling asleep herself. Little did Ed know but Spike wasn't asleep. Moving his head slightly he down at her and smiled. The kiss wasn't anything he thought she would do and he wished he could have kissed her back. When Ed was surely asleep he moved, turning down the sheets on the bed then he placed his feet on the floor standing up. He walked over to Ed and picked her up then placed her under the covers, after pulling off her shoes. Just like she did he leaned in pressing his lips against hers as she slept. Pulling away he covered her up and left the room.
"Where is Ed? We're going out tonight." Said Jet as soon as Spike entered the main room.
"She's sleeping."
"I think a night out of the Bebop would be good for her."
Alice walked into the room putting earrings in. "Spike you're awake."
"Yeah. I'm thinking a shower would be good. Don't want to go out looking like a mess."
"Shave while you're at it, stubble doesn't look good on you."
"Why should you care how I look? Should I grow a goatee?"
"You two be good. Where's Elisabeth? She needs her bandages changed plus I want to have a little girl talk with her."
"She's on my bed, sleeping." Spike sat down, picking up the newspaper Jet had once.
"Thanks, remember be good you two."
Alice left and walked to Spike's room. Just like he had said she was fast asleep in his bed.
"Elisabeth. Honey wake up." She whispered sitting on the bed next to her.
Yawning and stretching Ed sat up. "Hey Alice."
"So you crawled under the sheets?"
"No, I fell asleep at the foot of the bed. Spike must have put me here."
"I really think he likes you."
"I don't know. I mean I know I like him but…"
"Jet thinks the same thing. So get up you. Spike is in the shower and he'll want to get in here to get some clothes on. Unless you want to see his skinny butt in a towel I suggest you leave."
"Ok, I'm leaving." She got out of bed and walked with Alice passing Spike who was going to his room and like Alice said he was just in a towel.
"Spike get some clothing on, this isn't a nudist colony."
"I'm not nude." He blushed slightly and walked a little faster so Ed wouldn't get another cheap shot at him.
It was 7:00 P.M when everyone was ready. Alice was taking them to a little pub at the edge of town. The pub was known for their home cooking and their beer. When Elisabeth made her way into the main room Spike couldn't keep his eyes off of her. She wasn't wearing anything out of the normal, a yellow button up fitted men's dress shirt and a pair of blue jeans, but her happiness seemed to be rubbing off on him.
"Looks like you stole Spike's clothes." Jet laughed as he made his way down the street.
"She's too small to fit in my clothes. My hands could fit around her waist."
Ed smiled as Spike and herself walked behind Jet and Alice. "I doubt that one Spike."
"I keep telling you to eat more Elisabeth but do you listen? No, never listen to someone who is twice your age."
"Here we are."
The four walked in to the pub and looked around. It had pool tables and darts towards the back, the bar to the right and tables to the left of the door.
"Hello, how many tonight?" A tall blonde woman asked.
Alice replied. "Four."
"Fallow me."
The group fallowed the beautiful waitress; Ed being sure Spike would flirt with her. They sat at a table with Spike and Ed on one side and Jet and Alice on the other.
"What can I get you guys to drink tonight?"
"I'll have a be…a coke." Elisabeth sighed.
"I'll have the same."
Alice and Jet looked at each other in shock that Spike didn't get a beer. They guessed he didn't want Ed to feel bad.
"We'll both have a beer, thanks."
"I'll be right back."
"I wish I could have a beer. Not fair!"
"Don't whine Elisabeth."
"I'm not whining."
"Elisabeth, well I'll be damned. How are you?" Said a man from behind the red headed girl.
"Hello Brad. I'm pretty good, and yourself?" She turned slightly and smiled. Brad was one of Ed's ex-boyfriends.
"Better now that I've seen you. Where have you been as of lately? We miss you down at the Outlaw Tavern."
"Here, there, everywhere."
"Who's that?" Spike whispered to Jet.
"That's one of Ed's ex-boyfriends. He's a jerk who cheated on her."
"I see. Thanks for the information." He looked back at the dark haired man and placed one of his arms around Elisabeth's chair.
"Well it was good talking to you. I have to get back to my darts game. See ya later Ed." Brad moved from Spike's glair.
"Bye Brad."
"Here are your drinks guys. Here's some menus if you guys want something to eat." The blonde sat the menus in front of everyone, winking at Spike. He only raised an eyebrow then looked down at the menu.
"Thanks."
"If you guys need anything just call, name's Cindy."
"Okay Cindy." Alice smiled as she watched the girl leave.
Spike looked over to Jet. "What's good here?"
"Everything is good. My personal favorite is the barbeque ribs. Messy put good."
"I love to get messy with food. Messy is good but then you have to jump into the shower and that's fun too!"
"Calm down Ed."
"Sorry, I just can't help myself."
"It's ok. I don't mind you being a little hyper." Spike shot Elisabeth a warm smile then a slight wink.
A few minutes later the waitress returned with a big smile across her painted lips. She looked at the group.
"Now what can I get you?"
Elisabeth took her straw from her mouth. "I'll have the barbequed ribs."
"Me too." Said Spike as he let the fingers from the hand around Ed limply strokes her side.
"I'd like the fish platter."
"Sir?" Cindy looked to Jet.
"I'd like the steak and potatoes meal."
"Ok, I'll be back in a few with your meals."
"I can't wait till I can get all messy."
"You're not going to roll in it or anything are ya?"
"Now why would I do that Spike?"
"Why don't you two go and play pool or something?"
"Sounds good, wanna play Ed?"
"Bring it on fluffy."
The two got up and walked to the bar paying for an hour game. They both grabbed a cue stick making their way to a pool table in the corner.
"Do you want to break?"
"Is this a pity shot?"
"Why would I pity you?"
"Because I'm injured. I don't want your pity Spike."
"Then what do you want?" He smiled fixing the balls then stood back. "Ladies first."
"What do you mean what do I want? I only want to wipe the floor with you. I am going to beat you"
Smiling Spike took a step back letting Ed move around the table then break the balls. She watched them as they rolled in every direction.
"Don't get cocky little girl."
"You're turn Spike."
He leaned over the table, taking aim then hit the cue ball sending a solid into the right pocket.
"Brat."
"I'm not a brat, I'm just good at everything I do."
"But you can't do everything. Your turn again hot shot."
"Can't is not in my vocabulary."
Down to the wire, one ball left each and it was Ed's turn. She concentrated and eyed the two objects in front of her then smiled.
"Can you do it?"
"Why couldn't I?"
"Just asking."
Slowly she leaned over the table then moved the cue stick letting her ball stop right before it went into the pocket. To her left Spike was laughing, chuckling with a cigarette between his lips.
"And what is so funny Mr. Man?"
He looked down at her as she stood in front of him, placing his hands on her shoulders. "Nothing."
"Then why are you laughing?"
"Can't I laugh?" His eyes met hers, he smiled bring his face closer to hers.
"I thought 'can't' wasn't in your vocabulary."
"Your goal in life is to show me I'm wrong isn't it?"
"No, it's your turn." Ed bit her bottom lip lightly gazing up at Spike.
"Yeah, right."
Letting his hands fall from Elisabeth's body he sunk his ball and put his cue stick up. Walking back over to Ed he put out his cigarette.
"I do believe we have perfect timing. Our dinner is here."
"Food, anything is better then hospital food."
"Anything huh?"
"Fine almost anything."
Together the two walked back to the table and sat down. The meals were huge but so weren't their appetite.
"Who won?"
"No one, it was a tie."
"A tie? Spike I know you better then that. You play to win."
"People change over the years. You and Ed changed so why can't I?"
"Hush up you two and eat." Ed's fingers were already covered in the barbeque sauce. She happily licked her fingers then smiled.
"Is it good?"
"Oh yeah."
Spike picked a rib up and bit into it, and Elisabeth was right it was good. He watched her as she eat then went back to his own little world.
"Hey Spike."
"Huh?"
As soon as he turned his head his cheek was met with four sticky fingers. Ed smeared the gooey red sauce across his cheek. Then she removed the fingers and licked them clean.
"Ewww… Spike how are you going to get that off?" Alice wiped her mouth with a napkin watching the two.
"I don't know. Water and soap sounds good."
"Don't do that. That's perfectly good barbeque sauce." Elisabeth leaned towards Spike licking the fingerprints off his cheek.
"Why did you do that?"
"Just something I wanted to do. Sorry, I'm guessing that I shouldn't have done that."
"No, it's fine."
Alice watched the two and smiled. "Stop flirting you two."
"We are not flirting."
"Down Spike. It's cute, so don't worry."
Later that night the four finally made their way home. Jet and Alice were three sheets to the wind.
"Jet, how many did you drink tonight?"
"One too many I'd say." Elisabeth smiled.
"I'm old enough to know how to handle", He hiccupped "my booze. I don't tell you how to live your life now do I? So do me a favor and don't tell me how to live mine."
"How about this, we take you to Alice's house be it we are closer and Spike and I can go back to the Bebop."
"You just want to have the Bebop to yourself."
Spike looked at Elisabeth then at Jet. "You told me to keep my hands to myself."
"Good boy, now you two kids go. I can make my way to Alice's house."
"I won't let anything happen to him guys."
"Thanks Alice, see ya later guys."
The two "old" people went their way and the younger kids went off home to the Bebop.
"Those two are so funny."
"What's so funny about a drunk Jet?"
"You're so dense Spike I swear."
"I can't wait till I get home."
"And why is that?"
"So I can bum around on the couch."
"Typical male for you."
"I'm far from typical." He smiled at Ed as she walked next to him.
"Tell me about it. When I get home I have to change my bandages, after a shower. Then I think I'm going to turn off for the night."
Spike looked at Ed with a smirk. "So you're turned on right now?"
"I don't know why I would be."
"Duh, you have a amazing man next to you. He's tall, dark and handsome."
"Now where is this amazing man you're talking about?" Elisabeth looked around.
"It's me! Can't you tell?"
"I want my money back."
"Smart ass. So are you really turned on?"
"You'll never know."
The duo stopped out side the air hatch. Elisabeth dipped into the ship then kicked off her shoes. Spike watched her as she went off towards her room.
"Elisabeth, come here."
"Why?" She called from down the hall.
"I want to tell you something."
When Ed walked into the room he walked over to the girl, standing in front of her he smiled.
"What is it?"
"I… it's nothing." He leaned his face down kissing Ed lightly.
Pulling away Ed smiled. "What was that all about?"
"Just seeing if I could turn you on because you need to be turned on before you can be turned off."
"You're doing at good job."
"Really?"
"How long does this turning on process last? I want to get a good nights sleep you know."
"It last as long as you want it to last." He kissed her again, her lips meeting his own.
When she pulled away she winked and turn towards her room.
"I need a shower first then I can wrap my bandages then go to sleep."
"Huh?"
"Good night Spike."
"Wait a minute little girl."
Elisabeth turned to face Spike, "Yes?"
"Can't your shower wait?"
"Why would I want to wait?"
"Are you playing hard to get?"
"No, well yes. There is something that makes this whole thing slightly uncomfortable with me."
"Whatever it is it's fine. Is it scares or something it's nothing really because I have just as many if not more then you."
"I don't know how to say this, in that case it doesn't matter right now."
"C'mon tell me."
"Spike, I'm still…a..virgin." She muttered.
"A… virgin?" He almost choked on his words.
"Yeah. I haven't found the right man yet and I don't just want some man to use me for my body and what not."
"I understand. You go and take your shower, if you need me I'll be found on the couch."
Turning towards her room once again she sighed, figuring that would be his reaction. He seemed so into her just a few moments ago then BAM he didn't want her anymore. She was a freak, a sideshow, and a virgin. She went and jumped into the shower to deal with her thoughts.
"A virgin, wow. How are you going to handle this one?"
Spike indeed wanted Elisabeth. She was amazing and gave him a feeling not even Julia gave him. She gave him the feeling of wholeness, of life, and of aw at the everyday things one would take for granted. With that in mind Spike went into planning, he wanted to find a night to make perfect for Ed. He wanted his self to be her first and he wanted it to be perfect. In a week or two he would make his move and in a week or two he would change Ed's life.