Title: The Coming Out Party, Part Two: Friday Night Is Music Night.
Author: Am-Chau Yarkona
E-mail: spam@hagden169.fsnet.co.uk
Summary: As discussed in party one, it's a Scooby-bash. A set of screenplay- type snippets, based on what the group may remember the morning after.
Rating: PG
Pairing: (s!) Buffy/Clem, Giles/Spike, Willow/Drusilla, Xander/Harmony, Lorne/Anya, Dawn/surprise crossover guest
Spoilers: Probably none- set mid season seven
Warnings: Pre-slashiness, silliness, singing, getting sloshed.
Author Notes: The Demon!Cuddleverse starts for real. I've recently read requests for several of the pairings here, on the LoveLorne list, the Near Her Always archive, and such like places. Thanks for the inspiration! I have a feeling that the title is borrowed from somewhere, but I can't recall where. If you know, share the knowledge. E-mail address above.
Story Notes: It may help you to have read 'The Coming Out Party Part One: Pairing up' and my 'The First Cuddle' series. They'll get you into the mood, but aren't actually needed to understand the action.
Disclaimer: Not mine (if they were, would I be publishing free on the web and begging for feedback? I don't think so.)
Extra note: There are lots of people here, and most of them interact at some point. However, three pairs do not. If you can spot which pairs don't meet or speak, let me know and you may receive a small prize of some kind (such as an e-mail!).
The Summer's Residence, 7:00pm Friday night.
Buffy: They'll be arriving soon. Are you ready?
Clem walks slowly downstairs, enjoying the feel of his new silk shirt. 'Chosen for me by the Chosen One', he joked when she gave it to him, and the colour brings out his eyes and the firm curves of his body. It suits him.
Clem: Yes. You look stunning.
As indeed she does. The sage green dress with its low neckline and flowing skirt moves with her, showing her strength rather than hiding it. He kisses her, just the once. Dawn can be heard upstairs, showering.
A knock on the door, and Clem goes through into the sitting room, while Buffy lets Willow in.
Buffy: Hi, Wills! You come on your own?
Willow: Yeah, I figured, before sunset, and all. I hope it's alright that I've invited a date? She couldn't come with me, but she'll be along later.
Buffy: That's fine, Will, I'm sure. Clem's already here.
Willow: Hi Clem. How's is going?
Buffy: I'll just go and get snacks made.
Clem: I'm fine. You?
We see Buffy in the kitchen snacks and watching the sunset.
Another knock.
Buffy: Oh, Spike. Um, come in and- who? Harmony?!
Spike: Err, yeah, these two persuaded me I should give them lifts. Exs are a bugger, you know?
Harmony: Hi!
Drusilla: Nice Slayer. Let me in?
Buffy: I'm not sure about that, my girl.
Willow (out of sight): Who is it, Buffy?
Clem (coming through into the hallway): Spike! Good to see you!
Spike: Yeah, nice to see you. Look, Slayer, Dru got chipped, same as me. Seems your ex met her somewhere in Mexico, and now she can't bite anymore. Just invite her in.
Harmony: And me, too! Tell her to let me in, Spikey!
Giles appears behind the group at the doorway.
Buffy: Hey, Giles. Got any idea what's going on here?
Spike: Yeah, Giles, what's going on?
Buffy: I invited you in ages ago, Spike. Shut up. Giles?
Giles: Why don't we all go inside?
Buffy: Because I want some answers first.
Spike (stepping inside): Come on in, girls.
Giles: That doesn't work. Only Buffy or her sister can issue the invitation.
Dawn (coming down the stairs and unable to see who is outside): Everyone can come tonight, that's what Buffy said. Even Anya.
Harmony (stepping inside): Thanks, though I've got one. You're Dawn, right?
Dawn: Yes. And you are?
Harmony: Don't you remember me?
Dawn: No.
Harmony: My name's Harmony, Harm for short. Because that's what I like to do.
She goes into gameface, but quickly switches out again when she feels a hand on her shoulder- Xander has arrived.
Xander: But not when it's people you know.
Harmony: Oh. Yes. I forgot that, for a moment.
Buffy: Hello, Xander.
Xander: Is everyone here now?
Buffy: I think so. let's go into the sitting room and do a head count.
Xander puts his hands up to feel his head.
Xander: Just the one head here, Buff.
She sighs and gives him an exasperated look, but she smiles as well.
In the living room, everyone is geeting comfortable. Buffy crosses the room to sit by Clem, and if you're in the know, you'd see that every pair is sitting next to each other, carefully not touching in public, but wanting the support of their partner.
Only Dawn is alone, and she's standing in the archway, ready to answer the door.
Buffy: I think we're all here- and then some. Does everyone here know each other?
Heads shake all round the room, so Buffy stands up to do a group introduction.
Buffy: This is rude, but quick, and provides me with the answers I want. When I call your name, stand up and tell me why you're here. Okay?
A general round of nods, and calls of 'yeah', 'yes', 'possibly' and 'not another ice-breaker game' cause one ring on the doorbell and a young man slipping in to go unnoticed.
Buffy: My name is Buffy, and I'm here because it's my house. Drusilla, perhaps you could go next?
Drusilla: My name's Dru, and I'm here because the stars say it's nice to have parties. And my Willow agreed, didn't you, Pretty One?
Willow: I did, kind of, say she could come. Um. Buffy, you know I said something about inviting a girlfriend?
Buffy: That would be Dru here, right?
Dru slides her hand into Willow's and they nod together.
Willow: She is chipped now, Buffy. And she needs help.
Buffy: Okay. Right. Um. Xander. You're here because?
Xander: Because I'm your friend, Buffy.
Buffy: I sense an 'and' coming.
Xander: Er, yeah. And because, I er, want to tell you, about, err.
Harmony: About me and him. We had sex the other night, again, and now I know why Cordelia took such a liking to him.
Buffy looks distictly like she has a case of TMI, and blinks hard.
Buffy: Okay. Okay.
She turns her back to her friends on the sofa, and looks at Spike, crossed- legged on the floor besides Giles' chair.
Buffy: Giles, tell me that the blond souled monster is here for a normal reason.
Spike: Like what?
Buffy: Like, like, free food, or getting drunk, or something.
Spike: Both of those, defiantly, pet. And to help Giles here tell we're shagging again.
Giles nods, and reaches down to take Spike's hand.
Buffy looks at Clem, who stands and folds her into his arms. She hides her face in his shoulder.
Clem (to the room at large): And for our final surpirse tonight, I'm in love with buffy. I guess none of you feel you can comment, am I right?
He is met with a deafing silence, until Dawn chips in, quietly.
Dawn: Um, no comment about you and Buffy, but I- err, this is my boyfriend, Wesley Crusher.
The young man behind her takes a pace forward, and says,
Wesley: Err, hi.
There is more stunned silence.
Spike: Well, well. Wesley Crusher of Starship Enterprise fame, eh?
Wesley: Yes, I've been sent here because my mother thought I needed a proper eduction, so I'm at UC Sunnydale for three years.
Xander (looking at Spike): I knew you watched Passions, but I didn't think you did Trek too.
Harmony: Oh, Spike's always liked the telly. He prefered it to me.
Xander (forced to shut his eyes because Harmony is licking the sensitive place behind his ear): Harm, not now. And what kind of man would prefer Trek to you?
Drusilla (her hand woven into Willow's red hair, her scarlet nail vanish clashing terribly): The kind who wasn't jealous of Angelus because he slept with me, but jealous of me because I slept with Daddy.
Xander: Spike and Angelus!
Drusilla: Yes. Daddy and baby liked to play together.
Spike looks like he is about to react to these comments, but is restrained by Giles.
Giles: William, don't spill blood indoors. You have me now, no need to listen to them.
Xander leaves the room breifly, coming back to find Harmony sulking because she is the only one not being kissed. however, she rapidly brightens when she sees what he is carrying- drinks.
Xander: Alcohol's here, ladies and gents. None for you, Dawn- not yet. There's orange juice.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Buffy: So, new girlfrind a vampire, eh?
Willow: Yeah. Chipped, but a vampire.
Buffy: A vampire who killed Kendra.
Willow: Spike killed two Slayers. And now he's with Giles.
Buffy: Spike has a soul.
Willow: I don't think Dru would cope with that. She's.
Spike: Barmy?
Willow: Private converstaion here, but yes.
Buffy: Well, if it makes you happy, Will, I say, go for it.
Willow: Same with you and Clem.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Drusilla: You're the venganange demon, aren't you?
Anya: That's right. Want someone cursed?
Drusilla: Not just now. I want him to love me first.
Anya: Oh.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Spike: Buffy making you happy, then?
Clem: She's a wonderful girl.
Spike: Don't I just know it. Not the girl for me, though.
Clem: No- but you did, you know, with her?
Spike: Yeah, shagged her a few times. She's truly amazing in the sack. No wonder my Sire got a happy.
Clem: That's Angel, and the curse thing, right?
Spike: Let's not talk about him. Broke her heart.
Clem: And yours.
Spike: I said, let's not talk about it. You slept with her yet?
Clem: Not yet. We're taking it slow.
Spike: Never could be bothered with that. Rupert and me, we got together because we both needed a good shag.
Clem: You always were inclined that way.
Spike: How'd you know?
Clem: Darla told me.
Spike: Oh, you knew the bitch, did you?
Clem: Way back, we went. Think I first met her a few years after she was turned, before your Master chappie had really got the Order sorted out.
Spike: The Order! I'd nearly forgotten we had one of those. Right mess we are now, huh? The Master gone, his Annoying One ashes, Angelus souled, Darla staked herself- you heard about that?
Clem: I heard. And about the kid.
Spike: Don't waste your pity on the bloke. Dru and me chipped, too, we're a mess, we are. Pass me another beer.
Clem: Happy to.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Drusilla: Is my Spike happy now?
Clem: I think so. If he isn't, he won't remember in the morning.
Willow: I'd forgotten how much fun it could be to stay sober in the middle of lots of drunk people. They're funny.
Clem: Yeah, right up until they start being sick all over you.
Willow: Best to leave around that point. Hey, Anya. Din't know you were coming.
Anya: I wanted to come to show Xander my handsome new orgasm friend, but he's so inebrated it's pointless.
Willow: Who is your new friend?
Anya: His name's Krevlornswath. He's really good with his mouth.
Willow: Err, TMI, here. Um, Krev, Krew- he's a demon, right?
Anya: I thinks it's the green skin and little red horns that give it away. He's a singer. Most people just call him Lorne.
Willow: Ah. easier to say.
Lorne: Hi, cutie. Do you like kareoke?
Willow: Hi, err, Lorne. I'm not, um, big on the music front, since- my boyfriend left.
Lorne: Fair enough. Still, come along so time. I'd love to read your arua.
Anya: But not like the way you read mine, right?
Lorne: No, petal, not like that.
Drusilla (crooning to the doll Dawn has brought her): Run and catch, run and catch, the lamb is caught in the blackberry patch.
Lorne (staring): Now there is one screwed up girl. You look after her, and it'll prove well worth your while.
Willow: Um, thanks. Good advice.
Anya: Dance now, please?
Lorne (as he is dragged away to a spare piece of floor): If you like, Anya honey.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Clem: So, you and Spike are an item now?
Giles: That's the idea. Me and William, an item.
Clem: Struggling with the idea?
Giles: Kind of.
Xander: You're not the only one. I knew I saw you guys sort of together ina dream once, but that was more family together than.
Clem: As a couple?
Xander: Yeah.
Harmony: Anya and that green guy are dancing. Can we dance, Xander?
Xander: Yeah, if you like.
Harmony (to the others): Excuse us. This is cool music.
Clem: Yes, it is, isn't it?
Giles: It's not music, it's a racket.
Clem: Privatly, I prefer jazz, but I've never found it advantagous to disagree with a vampire.
Giles: I only do so with William- and that rarely.
Clem: Wise policy.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Anya (to Giles): Lorne's gone off to talk to Clem. Can I dance with Spike, please?
Giles: Ask him. (to Spike) It's okay if you want to. I could use another drink.
Spike: Okay. If you're sure, love.
When Giles nods, Spike smiles at Anya.
Spike: Let's put on our boogie shoes, then.
Anya: I don't have boogie shoes.
Spike: Metaphorical, pet. Let's dance.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Giles (tapping Lorne on the shoulder): You know your girlfriend is dancing with my boyfriend, don't you?
Lorne: No. is she?
Clem: Looks a lot like it. See her- over there, with the blond guy.
Lorne: Yeah, I see him. Your boyfrined, huh?
Giles: Yes.
Lorne: Nice.
Giles: He is, isn't he?
Spike and Anya stop dancing when the track ends and come over. So does Buffy.
Buffy: Hi. Whe did you get here, Anya? And who's the green guy?
Anya: Not long agao. We just thoguht we'd pop in, join in the ritual consumppion of alcohol. This is Krevlornswath.
Lorne: But everyone just calls me Lorne. Hi. You must be that Slayer.
Buffy: That's me. You're a good demon, right?
Lorne: Unless you consider kareoke intrincally evil, yes.
Buffy: I shall have to ask Giles to check that. I've heard Angel sing.
Lorne: Oh you have? Perhaps you should kill me stroght away.
Buffy: Not now. It take forever to get demon stains out of the carpet.
Lorne: Fair enough.
Clem: I don't think I know you, do I?
Buffy: No, probably not. This is Anyanka, she's a vengeange demon, and you know all I do about
Lorne here.
Clem: Hi, Anyanka.
Anya: Anya, please. Sounds friendlier.
Clem: Yes, it does. I can see why you'd want that.
A new track starts, and Buffy pulls Clem away.
Buffy: Here, Clem, want to take the next dance with me? I think I've covered all the friends who want to dance with me.
Clem: Xander and who else?
Buffy: Xander again. Anyway, wanna come?
Clem: If you like. See you, guys!
Spike: They make an intresting couple.
Lorne: They do. Lots of love there, and much less physical lust than you often see.
Spike: Could be a reason for that. I mean, not him for her, but her for him
Lorne: You're a vampire, aren't you?
Spike: Yeah, souled, but vampire. What of it?
Lorne: Oh, only that it explains why you still have a human perception of beauty.
Anya: Come on, Lorne. I want another dance.
Lorne: If you like, baby.
It crosses Giles' mind that he's just witnessed a narrow escape from a Spike-gets-into-a-fight scenario, and he decides to thank Anya later. When he's dealt with some of Spike's pent up energy, by putting it to another use.
Giles: Come upstairs with me, Spike.
Spike (still looking at Lorne): What? Oh- yeah- sure!
The childlike glee in his eyes makes Rupert's day complete.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Harmony: So you're the bitch I was up against, huh?
Drusilla: So you're the girl that picked up my left overs.
Harmony: I see why he left you.
Drusilla: I left him. I had to find my pleasures.
Harmony: Well, he gave me mine.
Drusilla: Good. The voices say you loved him.
Harmony: I did.
Drusilla: So did I. I still do.
Harmony: Me too. We should form a society- Spike Lover's Anynomus.
Drusilla: but I know your name already.
Harmony: And I know yours. So not much point.
Drusilla: No. But you love Xander now?
Harmony: Yeah.
Drusilla: He's handsome, but all the fishes round his head disappear at the end of the spell.
Harmony: Oh. Right.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Dawn: Hey, Giles.
Giles: Hello Dawn, and, err, Wesley is it?
Wesley: That's right, sir.
Giles: Please don't call me that.
Spike: Hey, nibblet.
Dawn: Hey Spike. Have you met Wesley yet?
Spike: Don't think so. Hey, Wes.
Wesley: Wesley. Two syllabules.
Spike: Fair enough. Rupes, wanna dance?
Giles: No thank you, not now.
Spike: Oh, better come a cuddle, had I?
Giles: That's good idea.
Wesley: Dawn, do you want to dance?
Dawn: I'd love to! See you Spike, Giles.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Willow: Hey Dawnie, Wesley.
Dawn: Hey. Having fun?
Willow: As much fun as one can have at a party thrown in one's hounor.
Dawn: That's lots, right?
Willow: Yeah, lots.
Wesley: I'm sorry, I'm not sure I cuaght your name.
Willow: Willow- like the tree, and my girlfriend over there is Drusilla..
Wesley: Ah.
Xander and Harmony wander over, arms round each other, looking to join in.
Xander: Hey, Willow, special girl, how's it going?
Willow: It's good. I'm good. Dru's enjoying herself.
Harmony: She looks like she's winding Spike up.
Xander: Yeah, she does. Oh, poor Spike.
Willow: Perhaps I'd better go and distract her.
Xander: Perhaps you'd better not. Giles or no, soul or no, I don't like Spike.
Harmony: Don't be nasty about my blondie-bear!
Xander: You were nasty about Anya. I don't see why I shouldn't be about Spike.
Willow: Don't quarrel at my party. I'll go over and sort her out.
Willow leaves.
Harmony: So you're Dawn?
Dawn: Guilty as charged.
Harmony: Liking having a boyfriend?
Dawn: Yeah. It's fun.
Harmony: He looks nice enough- not handsome like Xander, but okay.
Wesley: I'm glad you approve of me.
Xander: Willow asked us not to quarrel, Harm. Do you want another dance?
Harmony: No. I want to talk to Dawn.
Xander: Well, I'm going to dance. On my own, or with whoever will join me- Dawn? Wesley?
Wesley looks slightly shocked at the idea of dancing with a man, but Dawn takes Xander at his word.
Dawn: I'll dance! You coming, Wes?
Wesley: Err, no, I'll just watch for a while, thanks. Maybe later.
Xander: Wise choice. Wait 'til she's tired out a bit- Dawn can dance all night, if she's a mind to.
Wesley: I'm sure she can.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Willow appraoches the group in the opposite corner, comprising Spike, Drusilla, and Giles.
Willow: Hi guys! Dru, love.
Spike: Hi Willow. Look, Dru, can you just leave off for a while?
Willow: Yes, Dru, come and dance with me.
Drusilla: No. I want to talk to my Spike.
Willow: Thing is, I think Spike doesn't want to talk to you, pet.
Spike: It's okay. Rupert, Willow, leave me and Dru alone for a moment.
Giles heastiates, but Willow pulls him away.
Willow: It's only for a moment. If you get him out of here again, I'll try and remove her.
Giles: Sounds like a plan.
They step back up to the couple, just in time to hear:
Drusilla: .I wanted you to stay there, wait for me.
Spike: Well I didn't. I have an unlife of my own to lead, and you've just got to accept that.
Drusilla: I only wanted you to come back. I didn't say you couldn't find your pleasures.
Spike: I don't want to come back, Dru. You left, that's it.
Drusilla: Daddy came back.
Giles moves round Drusilla and takes Spike's hand. Willow stands by Dru, rubbing her hand over her lover's shoulders.
Willow: Time to leave Spike alone, now.
Drusilla: I want to be family again. The dolly said we should be a family.
Spike: Fuck you and your bloody dolls, Dru! I've had enough of this being compared to Angelus nonsense. I ain't your daddy and neither of us is coming back to you!
He turns away from the group and storms out, running up the stairs.
Giles: If you'll excuse me, Drusilla, I think I ought to go and calm your ex down a little.
Giles leave, following Spike up the stairs.
Drusilla: Nasty man! Horrid! Makes chips and takes Spike. Hurts my Spike and me!
Willow: It wasn't Giles who put the chip in your head, and you've got me now. Hush, Dru, hush.
She cradles Dru into her shoulder, and rocks her gently.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Dawn: Hi Anya. Can we join you?
Anya: Sure. Lorne, move along a bit, make room for two little ones.
Lorne: You're Dawn, Buffy's sister, aren't you? Dawn: And you're Lorne. Dawn and Lorne- we rhyme, you know!
Lorne: Why, so we do, sweetie-pie.
Dawn: How's the shop these days, Anya?
Anya: Lots of people are coming and giving money to me still. I think now that they know where we are, they are more inclinded to give us money regulaly.
Wesley: You aren't part Ferrengi, are you?
Anya: No, I'm a vengange demon. I'm thinking maybe I could charge for curses, bring a bit more money in.
Lorne: I'm not sure D'Hoffram would approve.
Wesley: D'Hoffram?
Lorne: Anyanka's boss.
Anya: He's in charge of lots of demons. We're all like sisters, and do lots of curses.
Wesley: Ah. I see.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
As the clock's hands creep round towards tomorrow, Giles calms Spike down enough that they can join in the game of Scrabble the others have set up. Drusilla has fallen asleep in an upstairs room, and Dawn and Wesley went to bed-seperate beds- some hours ago.
Lorne and Anya dance sopradically for a while, but eventually they settle into the end of the sofa to watch the game progress.
Teams took some time to organise, as they do when one is so drunk that people are mostly more than one person, but they were sorted in the end.
Willow works alone, against Xander and Harmony, the non-collage team, Giles and Spike, the English team, and Buffy and Clem, the Slayer team.
Willow picks six more letters out of the bag, having just made a seven letter word which xander feels sure can't be real, but is too drunk to get the dictionary and check.
Willow: Your go, English-types.
Spike: So what words can we make, Watcher?
Giles: I'm not sure there are many. There's only the 'U' available on the borad, and we haven't got any vowels.
Anya: What have you got?
Spike: Giles to cuddle.
Giles: K, J, L, B, X, Y and P.
Anya: I can see the problem.
Giles: No you can't. Our rack has its back to you.
Anya: I know what the problem is, then. I was trying to use more matephors.
Giles: Well, it needs more practice.
Buffy: When did you too get married? Won't Lorne and Spike be a bit upset?
Lorne: I would be. You, Spike?
Spike: Very.
Xander: Let's just play Scrabble. Are you two going to move or dump your letters?
Spike: Buy.
Giles: What? This isn't monoploy, you know.
Spike: I know. Put the B and the Y each side of the U, and let the losers over there take a turn.
Xander: At last, the insults.
Spike: I haven't insulted you all evening.
Willow: And you're not going to start now. Hear this? Determined voice. Got it?
Xander: What letters do we have, Harmony?
Harmony: Um. G, U, T, T, E, R, S.
Anya: Ha! Good word for you.
Harmony: What do you mean? That isn't a word.
Spike sniggers.
Harmony: What are you laughing at, blondie-bear?
Spike: Not your blondie-bear anymore, gutter-snipe. Can't you even read?
Harmony: I can read.
Anya: So can I, but that didn't make Xander stay with me.
Xander: No, that was more to do with the vengagance thing.
Lorne: Look, children, let's not argue. Willow says no fighting, and I heartily agree.
Harmony: Well, I don't. I want this out with Anya.
Anya: Don't be a stupid bitch. I could take you any day of the week.
Harmony: Bet you couldn't, fu.
Willow: Stop it, okay? Just stop it, or leave.
Anya: How dare you, mortal, invole yourself with the fights of demons?
Willow: because you're my friend, Anya, and this is my party, in my friend's house.
Anya: Oh yeah, your friend the Slayer. Who just happens to be alseep.
Clem: I'm sure she can be woken, if we have to.
Xander: I'll just put out tiles down, shall I?
Lorne: Good idea.
Harmony (grudingly): Yeah, okay.
Lorne: Smart move.
Willow: Very good.
Xander: I pride myself on having learned something from years spent in the company of bookish types.
Lorne: It's hard not to let something rub off.
Willow: But only it a metaphorical way. Right, Xander?
Xander: Yeah. Metaphors only.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
A montage of shots to finish the story: people drinking, copllasing into bed, onto floors and couches.
Author: Am-Chau Yarkona
E-mail: spam@hagden169.fsnet.co.uk
Summary: As discussed in party one, it's a Scooby-bash. A set of screenplay- type snippets, based on what the group may remember the morning after.
Rating: PG
Pairing: (s!) Buffy/Clem, Giles/Spike, Willow/Drusilla, Xander/Harmony, Lorne/Anya, Dawn/surprise crossover guest
Spoilers: Probably none- set mid season seven
Warnings: Pre-slashiness, silliness, singing, getting sloshed.
Author Notes: The Demon!Cuddleverse starts for real. I've recently read requests for several of the pairings here, on the LoveLorne list, the Near Her Always archive, and such like places. Thanks for the inspiration! I have a feeling that the title is borrowed from somewhere, but I can't recall where. If you know, share the knowledge. E-mail address above.
Story Notes: It may help you to have read 'The Coming Out Party Part One: Pairing up' and my 'The First Cuddle' series. They'll get you into the mood, but aren't actually needed to understand the action.
Disclaimer: Not mine (if they were, would I be publishing free on the web and begging for feedback? I don't think so.)
Extra note: There are lots of people here, and most of them interact at some point. However, three pairs do not. If you can spot which pairs don't meet or speak, let me know and you may receive a small prize of some kind (such as an e-mail!).
The Summer's Residence, 7:00pm Friday night.
Buffy: They'll be arriving soon. Are you ready?
Clem walks slowly downstairs, enjoying the feel of his new silk shirt. 'Chosen for me by the Chosen One', he joked when she gave it to him, and the colour brings out his eyes and the firm curves of his body. It suits him.
Clem: Yes. You look stunning.
As indeed she does. The sage green dress with its low neckline and flowing skirt moves with her, showing her strength rather than hiding it. He kisses her, just the once. Dawn can be heard upstairs, showering.
A knock on the door, and Clem goes through into the sitting room, while Buffy lets Willow in.
Buffy: Hi, Wills! You come on your own?
Willow: Yeah, I figured, before sunset, and all. I hope it's alright that I've invited a date? She couldn't come with me, but she'll be along later.
Buffy: That's fine, Will, I'm sure. Clem's already here.
Willow: Hi Clem. How's is going?
Buffy: I'll just go and get snacks made.
Clem: I'm fine. You?
We see Buffy in the kitchen snacks and watching the sunset.
Another knock.
Buffy: Oh, Spike. Um, come in and- who? Harmony?!
Spike: Err, yeah, these two persuaded me I should give them lifts. Exs are a bugger, you know?
Harmony: Hi!
Drusilla: Nice Slayer. Let me in?
Buffy: I'm not sure about that, my girl.
Willow (out of sight): Who is it, Buffy?
Clem (coming through into the hallway): Spike! Good to see you!
Spike: Yeah, nice to see you. Look, Slayer, Dru got chipped, same as me. Seems your ex met her somewhere in Mexico, and now she can't bite anymore. Just invite her in.
Harmony: And me, too! Tell her to let me in, Spikey!
Giles appears behind the group at the doorway.
Buffy: Hey, Giles. Got any idea what's going on here?
Spike: Yeah, Giles, what's going on?
Buffy: I invited you in ages ago, Spike. Shut up. Giles?
Giles: Why don't we all go inside?
Buffy: Because I want some answers first.
Spike (stepping inside): Come on in, girls.
Giles: That doesn't work. Only Buffy or her sister can issue the invitation.
Dawn (coming down the stairs and unable to see who is outside): Everyone can come tonight, that's what Buffy said. Even Anya.
Harmony (stepping inside): Thanks, though I've got one. You're Dawn, right?
Dawn: Yes. And you are?
Harmony: Don't you remember me?
Dawn: No.
Harmony: My name's Harmony, Harm for short. Because that's what I like to do.
She goes into gameface, but quickly switches out again when she feels a hand on her shoulder- Xander has arrived.
Xander: But not when it's people you know.
Harmony: Oh. Yes. I forgot that, for a moment.
Buffy: Hello, Xander.
Xander: Is everyone here now?
Buffy: I think so. let's go into the sitting room and do a head count.
Xander puts his hands up to feel his head.
Xander: Just the one head here, Buff.
She sighs and gives him an exasperated look, but she smiles as well.
In the living room, everyone is geeting comfortable. Buffy crosses the room to sit by Clem, and if you're in the know, you'd see that every pair is sitting next to each other, carefully not touching in public, but wanting the support of their partner.
Only Dawn is alone, and she's standing in the archway, ready to answer the door.
Buffy: I think we're all here- and then some. Does everyone here know each other?
Heads shake all round the room, so Buffy stands up to do a group introduction.
Buffy: This is rude, but quick, and provides me with the answers I want. When I call your name, stand up and tell me why you're here. Okay?
A general round of nods, and calls of 'yeah', 'yes', 'possibly' and 'not another ice-breaker game' cause one ring on the doorbell and a young man slipping in to go unnoticed.
Buffy: My name is Buffy, and I'm here because it's my house. Drusilla, perhaps you could go next?
Drusilla: My name's Dru, and I'm here because the stars say it's nice to have parties. And my Willow agreed, didn't you, Pretty One?
Willow: I did, kind of, say she could come. Um. Buffy, you know I said something about inviting a girlfriend?
Buffy: That would be Dru here, right?
Dru slides her hand into Willow's and they nod together.
Willow: She is chipped now, Buffy. And she needs help.
Buffy: Okay. Right. Um. Xander. You're here because?
Xander: Because I'm your friend, Buffy.
Buffy: I sense an 'and' coming.
Xander: Er, yeah. And because, I er, want to tell you, about, err.
Harmony: About me and him. We had sex the other night, again, and now I know why Cordelia took such a liking to him.
Buffy looks distictly like she has a case of TMI, and blinks hard.
Buffy: Okay. Okay.
She turns her back to her friends on the sofa, and looks at Spike, crossed- legged on the floor besides Giles' chair.
Buffy: Giles, tell me that the blond souled monster is here for a normal reason.
Spike: Like what?
Buffy: Like, like, free food, or getting drunk, or something.
Spike: Both of those, defiantly, pet. And to help Giles here tell we're shagging again.
Giles nods, and reaches down to take Spike's hand.
Buffy looks at Clem, who stands and folds her into his arms. She hides her face in his shoulder.
Clem (to the room at large): And for our final surpirse tonight, I'm in love with buffy. I guess none of you feel you can comment, am I right?
He is met with a deafing silence, until Dawn chips in, quietly.
Dawn: Um, no comment about you and Buffy, but I- err, this is my boyfriend, Wesley Crusher.
The young man behind her takes a pace forward, and says,
Wesley: Err, hi.
There is more stunned silence.
Spike: Well, well. Wesley Crusher of Starship Enterprise fame, eh?
Wesley: Yes, I've been sent here because my mother thought I needed a proper eduction, so I'm at UC Sunnydale for three years.
Xander (looking at Spike): I knew you watched Passions, but I didn't think you did Trek too.
Harmony: Oh, Spike's always liked the telly. He prefered it to me.
Xander (forced to shut his eyes because Harmony is licking the sensitive place behind his ear): Harm, not now. And what kind of man would prefer Trek to you?
Drusilla (her hand woven into Willow's red hair, her scarlet nail vanish clashing terribly): The kind who wasn't jealous of Angelus because he slept with me, but jealous of me because I slept with Daddy.
Xander: Spike and Angelus!
Drusilla: Yes. Daddy and baby liked to play together.
Spike looks like he is about to react to these comments, but is restrained by Giles.
Giles: William, don't spill blood indoors. You have me now, no need to listen to them.
Xander leaves the room breifly, coming back to find Harmony sulking because she is the only one not being kissed. however, she rapidly brightens when she sees what he is carrying- drinks.
Xander: Alcohol's here, ladies and gents. None for you, Dawn- not yet. There's orange juice.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Buffy: So, new girlfrind a vampire, eh?
Willow: Yeah. Chipped, but a vampire.
Buffy: A vampire who killed Kendra.
Willow: Spike killed two Slayers. And now he's with Giles.
Buffy: Spike has a soul.
Willow: I don't think Dru would cope with that. She's.
Spike: Barmy?
Willow: Private converstaion here, but yes.
Buffy: Well, if it makes you happy, Will, I say, go for it.
Willow: Same with you and Clem.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Drusilla: You're the venganange demon, aren't you?
Anya: That's right. Want someone cursed?
Drusilla: Not just now. I want him to love me first.
Anya: Oh.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Spike: Buffy making you happy, then?
Clem: She's a wonderful girl.
Spike: Don't I just know it. Not the girl for me, though.
Clem: No- but you did, you know, with her?
Spike: Yeah, shagged her a few times. She's truly amazing in the sack. No wonder my Sire got a happy.
Clem: That's Angel, and the curse thing, right?
Spike: Let's not talk about him. Broke her heart.
Clem: And yours.
Spike: I said, let's not talk about it. You slept with her yet?
Clem: Not yet. We're taking it slow.
Spike: Never could be bothered with that. Rupert and me, we got together because we both needed a good shag.
Clem: You always were inclined that way.
Spike: How'd you know?
Clem: Darla told me.
Spike: Oh, you knew the bitch, did you?
Clem: Way back, we went. Think I first met her a few years after she was turned, before your Master chappie had really got the Order sorted out.
Spike: The Order! I'd nearly forgotten we had one of those. Right mess we are now, huh? The Master gone, his Annoying One ashes, Angelus souled, Darla staked herself- you heard about that?
Clem: I heard. And about the kid.
Spike: Don't waste your pity on the bloke. Dru and me chipped, too, we're a mess, we are. Pass me another beer.
Clem: Happy to.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Drusilla: Is my Spike happy now?
Clem: I think so. If he isn't, he won't remember in the morning.
Willow: I'd forgotten how much fun it could be to stay sober in the middle of lots of drunk people. They're funny.
Clem: Yeah, right up until they start being sick all over you.
Willow: Best to leave around that point. Hey, Anya. Din't know you were coming.
Anya: I wanted to come to show Xander my handsome new orgasm friend, but he's so inebrated it's pointless.
Willow: Who is your new friend?
Anya: His name's Krevlornswath. He's really good with his mouth.
Willow: Err, TMI, here. Um, Krev, Krew- he's a demon, right?
Anya: I thinks it's the green skin and little red horns that give it away. He's a singer. Most people just call him Lorne.
Willow: Ah. easier to say.
Lorne: Hi, cutie. Do you like kareoke?
Willow: Hi, err, Lorne. I'm not, um, big on the music front, since- my boyfriend left.
Lorne: Fair enough. Still, come along so time. I'd love to read your arua.
Anya: But not like the way you read mine, right?
Lorne: No, petal, not like that.
Drusilla (crooning to the doll Dawn has brought her): Run and catch, run and catch, the lamb is caught in the blackberry patch.
Lorne (staring): Now there is one screwed up girl. You look after her, and it'll prove well worth your while.
Willow: Um, thanks. Good advice.
Anya: Dance now, please?
Lorne (as he is dragged away to a spare piece of floor): If you like, Anya honey.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Clem: So, you and Spike are an item now?
Giles: That's the idea. Me and William, an item.
Clem: Struggling with the idea?
Giles: Kind of.
Xander: You're not the only one. I knew I saw you guys sort of together ina dream once, but that was more family together than.
Clem: As a couple?
Xander: Yeah.
Harmony: Anya and that green guy are dancing. Can we dance, Xander?
Xander: Yeah, if you like.
Harmony (to the others): Excuse us. This is cool music.
Clem: Yes, it is, isn't it?
Giles: It's not music, it's a racket.
Clem: Privatly, I prefer jazz, but I've never found it advantagous to disagree with a vampire.
Giles: I only do so with William- and that rarely.
Clem: Wise policy.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Anya (to Giles): Lorne's gone off to talk to Clem. Can I dance with Spike, please?
Giles: Ask him. (to Spike) It's okay if you want to. I could use another drink.
Spike: Okay. If you're sure, love.
When Giles nods, Spike smiles at Anya.
Spike: Let's put on our boogie shoes, then.
Anya: I don't have boogie shoes.
Spike: Metaphorical, pet. Let's dance.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Giles (tapping Lorne on the shoulder): You know your girlfriend is dancing with my boyfriend, don't you?
Lorne: No. is she?
Clem: Looks a lot like it. See her- over there, with the blond guy.
Lorne: Yeah, I see him. Your boyfrined, huh?
Giles: Yes.
Lorne: Nice.
Giles: He is, isn't he?
Spike and Anya stop dancing when the track ends and come over. So does Buffy.
Buffy: Hi. Whe did you get here, Anya? And who's the green guy?
Anya: Not long agao. We just thoguht we'd pop in, join in the ritual consumppion of alcohol. This is Krevlornswath.
Lorne: But everyone just calls me Lorne. Hi. You must be that Slayer.
Buffy: That's me. You're a good demon, right?
Lorne: Unless you consider kareoke intrincally evil, yes.
Buffy: I shall have to ask Giles to check that. I've heard Angel sing.
Lorne: Oh you have? Perhaps you should kill me stroght away.
Buffy: Not now. It take forever to get demon stains out of the carpet.
Lorne: Fair enough.
Clem: I don't think I know you, do I?
Buffy: No, probably not. This is Anyanka, she's a vengeange demon, and you know all I do about
Lorne here.
Clem: Hi, Anyanka.
Anya: Anya, please. Sounds friendlier.
Clem: Yes, it does. I can see why you'd want that.
A new track starts, and Buffy pulls Clem away.
Buffy: Here, Clem, want to take the next dance with me? I think I've covered all the friends who want to dance with me.
Clem: Xander and who else?
Buffy: Xander again. Anyway, wanna come?
Clem: If you like. See you, guys!
Spike: They make an intresting couple.
Lorne: They do. Lots of love there, and much less physical lust than you often see.
Spike: Could be a reason for that. I mean, not him for her, but her for him
Lorne: You're a vampire, aren't you?
Spike: Yeah, souled, but vampire. What of it?
Lorne: Oh, only that it explains why you still have a human perception of beauty.
Anya: Come on, Lorne. I want another dance.
Lorne: If you like, baby.
It crosses Giles' mind that he's just witnessed a narrow escape from a Spike-gets-into-a-fight scenario, and he decides to thank Anya later. When he's dealt with some of Spike's pent up energy, by putting it to another use.
Giles: Come upstairs with me, Spike.
Spike (still looking at Lorne): What? Oh- yeah- sure!
The childlike glee in his eyes makes Rupert's day complete.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Harmony: So you're the bitch I was up against, huh?
Drusilla: So you're the girl that picked up my left overs.
Harmony: I see why he left you.
Drusilla: I left him. I had to find my pleasures.
Harmony: Well, he gave me mine.
Drusilla: Good. The voices say you loved him.
Harmony: I did.
Drusilla: So did I. I still do.
Harmony: Me too. We should form a society- Spike Lover's Anynomus.
Drusilla: but I know your name already.
Harmony: And I know yours. So not much point.
Drusilla: No. But you love Xander now?
Harmony: Yeah.
Drusilla: He's handsome, but all the fishes round his head disappear at the end of the spell.
Harmony: Oh. Right.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Dawn: Hey, Giles.
Giles: Hello Dawn, and, err, Wesley is it?
Wesley: That's right, sir.
Giles: Please don't call me that.
Spike: Hey, nibblet.
Dawn: Hey Spike. Have you met Wesley yet?
Spike: Don't think so. Hey, Wes.
Wesley: Wesley. Two syllabules.
Spike: Fair enough. Rupes, wanna dance?
Giles: No thank you, not now.
Spike: Oh, better come a cuddle, had I?
Giles: That's good idea.
Wesley: Dawn, do you want to dance?
Dawn: I'd love to! See you Spike, Giles.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Willow: Hey Dawnie, Wesley.
Dawn: Hey. Having fun?
Willow: As much fun as one can have at a party thrown in one's hounor.
Dawn: That's lots, right?
Willow: Yeah, lots.
Wesley: I'm sorry, I'm not sure I cuaght your name.
Willow: Willow- like the tree, and my girlfriend over there is Drusilla..
Wesley: Ah.
Xander and Harmony wander over, arms round each other, looking to join in.
Xander: Hey, Willow, special girl, how's it going?
Willow: It's good. I'm good. Dru's enjoying herself.
Harmony: She looks like she's winding Spike up.
Xander: Yeah, she does. Oh, poor Spike.
Willow: Perhaps I'd better go and distract her.
Xander: Perhaps you'd better not. Giles or no, soul or no, I don't like Spike.
Harmony: Don't be nasty about my blondie-bear!
Xander: You were nasty about Anya. I don't see why I shouldn't be about Spike.
Willow: Don't quarrel at my party. I'll go over and sort her out.
Willow leaves.
Harmony: So you're Dawn?
Dawn: Guilty as charged.
Harmony: Liking having a boyfriend?
Dawn: Yeah. It's fun.
Harmony: He looks nice enough- not handsome like Xander, but okay.
Wesley: I'm glad you approve of me.
Xander: Willow asked us not to quarrel, Harm. Do you want another dance?
Harmony: No. I want to talk to Dawn.
Xander: Well, I'm going to dance. On my own, or with whoever will join me- Dawn? Wesley?
Wesley looks slightly shocked at the idea of dancing with a man, but Dawn takes Xander at his word.
Dawn: I'll dance! You coming, Wes?
Wesley: Err, no, I'll just watch for a while, thanks. Maybe later.
Xander: Wise choice. Wait 'til she's tired out a bit- Dawn can dance all night, if she's a mind to.
Wesley: I'm sure she can.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Willow appraoches the group in the opposite corner, comprising Spike, Drusilla, and Giles.
Willow: Hi guys! Dru, love.
Spike: Hi Willow. Look, Dru, can you just leave off for a while?
Willow: Yes, Dru, come and dance with me.
Drusilla: No. I want to talk to my Spike.
Willow: Thing is, I think Spike doesn't want to talk to you, pet.
Spike: It's okay. Rupert, Willow, leave me and Dru alone for a moment.
Giles heastiates, but Willow pulls him away.
Willow: It's only for a moment. If you get him out of here again, I'll try and remove her.
Giles: Sounds like a plan.
They step back up to the couple, just in time to hear:
Drusilla: .I wanted you to stay there, wait for me.
Spike: Well I didn't. I have an unlife of my own to lead, and you've just got to accept that.
Drusilla: I only wanted you to come back. I didn't say you couldn't find your pleasures.
Spike: I don't want to come back, Dru. You left, that's it.
Drusilla: Daddy came back.
Giles moves round Drusilla and takes Spike's hand. Willow stands by Dru, rubbing her hand over her lover's shoulders.
Willow: Time to leave Spike alone, now.
Drusilla: I want to be family again. The dolly said we should be a family.
Spike: Fuck you and your bloody dolls, Dru! I've had enough of this being compared to Angelus nonsense. I ain't your daddy and neither of us is coming back to you!
He turns away from the group and storms out, running up the stairs.
Giles: If you'll excuse me, Drusilla, I think I ought to go and calm your ex down a little.
Giles leave, following Spike up the stairs.
Drusilla: Nasty man! Horrid! Makes chips and takes Spike. Hurts my Spike and me!
Willow: It wasn't Giles who put the chip in your head, and you've got me now. Hush, Dru, hush.
She cradles Dru into her shoulder, and rocks her gently.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Dawn: Hi Anya. Can we join you?
Anya: Sure. Lorne, move along a bit, make room for two little ones.
Lorne: You're Dawn, Buffy's sister, aren't you? Dawn: And you're Lorne. Dawn and Lorne- we rhyme, you know!
Lorne: Why, so we do, sweetie-pie.
Dawn: How's the shop these days, Anya?
Anya: Lots of people are coming and giving money to me still. I think now that they know where we are, they are more inclinded to give us money regulaly.
Wesley: You aren't part Ferrengi, are you?
Anya: No, I'm a vengange demon. I'm thinking maybe I could charge for curses, bring a bit more money in.
Lorne: I'm not sure D'Hoffram would approve.
Wesley: D'Hoffram?
Lorne: Anyanka's boss.
Anya: He's in charge of lots of demons. We're all like sisters, and do lots of curses.
Wesley: Ah. I see.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
As the clock's hands creep round towards tomorrow, Giles calms Spike down enough that they can join in the game of Scrabble the others have set up. Drusilla has fallen asleep in an upstairs room, and Dawn and Wesley went to bed-seperate beds- some hours ago.
Lorne and Anya dance sopradically for a while, but eventually they settle into the end of the sofa to watch the game progress.
Teams took some time to organise, as they do when one is so drunk that people are mostly more than one person, but they were sorted in the end.
Willow works alone, against Xander and Harmony, the non-collage team, Giles and Spike, the English team, and Buffy and Clem, the Slayer team.
Willow picks six more letters out of the bag, having just made a seven letter word which xander feels sure can't be real, but is too drunk to get the dictionary and check.
Willow: Your go, English-types.
Spike: So what words can we make, Watcher?
Giles: I'm not sure there are many. There's only the 'U' available on the borad, and we haven't got any vowels.
Anya: What have you got?
Spike: Giles to cuddle.
Giles: K, J, L, B, X, Y and P.
Anya: I can see the problem.
Giles: No you can't. Our rack has its back to you.
Anya: I know what the problem is, then. I was trying to use more matephors.
Giles: Well, it needs more practice.
Buffy: When did you too get married? Won't Lorne and Spike be a bit upset?
Lorne: I would be. You, Spike?
Spike: Very.
Xander: Let's just play Scrabble. Are you two going to move or dump your letters?
Spike: Buy.
Giles: What? This isn't monoploy, you know.
Spike: I know. Put the B and the Y each side of the U, and let the losers over there take a turn.
Xander: At last, the insults.
Spike: I haven't insulted you all evening.
Willow: And you're not going to start now. Hear this? Determined voice. Got it?
Xander: What letters do we have, Harmony?
Harmony: Um. G, U, T, T, E, R, S.
Anya: Ha! Good word for you.
Harmony: What do you mean? That isn't a word.
Spike sniggers.
Harmony: What are you laughing at, blondie-bear?
Spike: Not your blondie-bear anymore, gutter-snipe. Can't you even read?
Harmony: I can read.
Anya: So can I, but that didn't make Xander stay with me.
Xander: No, that was more to do with the vengagance thing.
Lorne: Look, children, let's not argue. Willow says no fighting, and I heartily agree.
Harmony: Well, I don't. I want this out with Anya.
Anya: Don't be a stupid bitch. I could take you any day of the week.
Harmony: Bet you couldn't, fu.
Willow: Stop it, okay? Just stop it, or leave.
Anya: How dare you, mortal, invole yourself with the fights of demons?
Willow: because you're my friend, Anya, and this is my party, in my friend's house.
Anya: Oh yeah, your friend the Slayer. Who just happens to be alseep.
Clem: I'm sure she can be woken, if we have to.
Xander: I'll just put out tiles down, shall I?
Lorne: Good idea.
Harmony (grudingly): Yeah, okay.
Lorne: Smart move.
Willow: Very good.
Xander: I pride myself on having learned something from years spent in the company of bookish types.
Lorne: It's hard not to let something rub off.
Willow: But only it a metaphorical way. Right, Xander?
Xander: Yeah. Metaphors only.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
A montage of shots to finish the story: people drinking, copllasing into bed, onto floors and couches.