Chapter 5
Things Can Only Get Better
Buffy burst through the front door, Spike following in her wake. Joyce and Giles were seated together on the sofa.
"Hey you two, hope your not getting any of the old feelings back for each other," Buffy laughed,
Joyce shot up off the sofa. "Hi Buffy, what happened to you?" asked her mom, taking in her daughters dishevelled appearance.
"No big; Spike and I just ran into a Zauber demon," She shrugged
Giles sat forward on the sofa "Really? What happened? I could do with the excitement, things have been pretty dead on the hell mouth of late," said Giles.
"I really have to take a shower and burn these clothes, Spike can fill you in," said Buffy.
Buffy turned and ran up the stairs. Joyce and Giles waited expectantly for Spike to begin. At that moment Shakespeare poked his head around the kitchen door and whined.
"Looks like the mutt needs the loo," said Spike, secretly glad to be relieved of the third degree.
He looked at Giles "Wanna come for a walk mate? It is your bleedin' dog after all," asked Spike.
Spike went to get the dog's harness and fastened Shakespeare into it.
"Go on Giles, the fresh air will do you good," encouraged Joyce.
Giles sighed and rose unsteadily from the sofa, he knew when he was out voted.
"Okay, okay, could someone get me my coat?" He asked.
"Already here," said Joyce, placing the jacket in his outstretched hand.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Spike stayed close to Giles as they walked down Revello Drive. He glanced at Buffy's former watcher, a look of concentration etched on his face as he let himself be guided by his dog.
Giles had not been himself for months now. At first after Willow had gone away, he had been hopeful, that Xander would soon find her. However, as the months had passed hope had changed into bitterness. He hated having to be so reliant on the aid of others.
Spike fumbled about in his jacket for his smokes, he found them and lit up, exhaling deeply.
"Found out something interesting tonight," Spike told Giles.
"About the demon?" asked Giles
"No, but it did involve a demon; me, I found out that I'm not quite as toothless as every body thought," Said Spike.
"What are you talking about?" asked Giles, somewhat puzzled.
"You got yourself a new demon fighter, oh don't worry humans are still a no- no. But, if I hadn't gone on patrol tonight, you would have been searching for a new chosen one," Spike replied
"Thank you; Spike," muttered Giles.
The vampire's eyes widened, he shook his head wondering if his ears were playing tricks on him. These were the first friendly words he had had from Giles, and he felt oddly touched by them.
"Think nothing of it," He said quietly.
They both settled into a companionable silence.
*Watcher and vampire on a midnight stroll, Dru would appreciate that one* Spike thought to himself.
"I understand you better than you think mate," He said to Giles.
"How so?" asked Giles.
"I was stuck in a wheelchair for months after Buffy dropped a church organ on me. Hated it, had to rely on Dru for everything. Worst bloody time of my unlife, even had her bringing me dogs to feed on," he grinned.
Giles chuckled
"I never knew that, guess you do understand me. I hate this incapacity; if we find Willow, she will have to do some sort of forgetting spell on me, because I am not sure if I can forgive her for these past few months," said Giles.
Spike patted Giles on the shoulder.
"Do you really think Willow has any idea of what she has done?" He asked
"Looking at it from your point of view, you would be Willow's champion. Nevertheless, while we are getting things off our chests, although it pains me to admit it, Buffy has been happier since Willow's spell. And a lot of that is down to you Spike," He finished awkwardly.
"We will have to go on these walks a bit more often mate; it certainly improves your mood. And just for reference the spell only affected you and Xander, Buffy and I have immunity, being a slayer and a vampire," He growled.
Giles sighed, this was one argument he had no chance of winning.
"That's enough for one night, shall we make our way back?" Said Giles, a little wearily.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Spike entered the Bedroom, drooling at the sight that was Buffy. She was asleep on the bed wrapped in a fluffy bath towel. He took off his coat and laid it at the foot of the bed. Working his way up the bed until he was face to face with her. He blew on her exposed neck, the coolness of his breath caused her skin to pucker and she shivered.
"Nice try Spike, but your bed is on the floor tonight," She muttered sleepily.
For the first time since entering the room, he noticed the pile of blankets and pillows on the bedroom floor. He sat up in indignation.
"Come on pet, have a heart," He pleaded
Buffy opened her eyes
"It's traditional, the bride and groom always spend the night before the wedding apart. Besides if you sleep on here with me, we know how that will work out," She replied.
Spike grinned "Would that be so very bad love?"
"Spike please!" She pleaded
"Ok, I know when I am defeated, it will give me plenty of time to rest up for the big night. So you had better make sure you get a good nights sleep, because you won't be getting much tomorrow," he promised.
Spike settled down on the hard floor in his makeshift bed. Oh well, he had slept in worse places. He closed his eyes conjuring up images in his head of the days to come, and he swiftly fell asleep with a big silly grin on his face.
The day of their wedding, dawned bright and warm. Buffy awoke and stretched with feline grace, she looked lovingly at the figure still fast asleep on the floor. Spike muttered something in his sleep and turned over. He looked most uncomfortable, Buffy's heart melted at the sight of him, after this night, this wonderful man would be hers, heart, body and soul. Well maybe not soul she thought forlornly, but two out of three wasn't bad.
She looked at her watch on the bedside table. It was 9am, Buffy's eyes widened in alarm. She scrambled out of bed. There was still so much to do. After a quick shower, Buffy hurried downstairs. Giles was already out of bed. Dressed and shaved, looking very much like the Giles of old.
"Hey Giles, what's up?" She asked.
Buffy couldn't help the rush of tears that stung her eyes. Seeing him like this was like all her Christmases coming at once, well almost.
"Morning Buffy, thought I might go to the public library today, was told they have excellent resources for people with my um disabilities," He said
Buffy smiled sadly, and wiped away a tear.
"That's great Giles you have spent too long indoors," said Buffy.
"You are right, I have to stop feeling sorry for myself. I have to have faith that Xander and Anya will find Willow, even if they don't life still has to go on," He smiled.
Buffy fondly kissed her watcher on the cheek.
"I am getting some coffee, want some?" She asked.
"No thanks tea is more my poison," He said, holding up his mug.
The kitchen was empty; Joyce had already left for work. Buffy felt a sharp disappointment lance through her; she really hoped her mom wouldn't be late home from the gallery tonight. She felt terrible for deceiving every one, but this was the only road left open to them. Buffy really needed to see her mom before leaving; it was after all her wedding day. After a quick look at the clock, Buffy gulped down her hot coffee; only narrowly missing first degree burns to her mouth. Slopping the remains down on the counter, she left through the backdoor.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
The bell rang out as Buffy entered the magic shop. A young girl she had never seen before, beamed at her nervously from behind the counter. Buffy smiled back and approached her.
"Hi," said Buffy
"How can I help you?" asked the girl.
"I am looking for something special; I am getting married tonight and I know it's leaving it a bit late, but I am looking for a present for my husband to be," said Buffy.
The girl looked dreamily at her.
"Awww that's so sweet, what kind of things is he into? I need some ideas here," said the girl.
Buffy thought for a moment
"Well he likes leather, not adverse to the odd bit of jewellery,"
Buffy looked at the girl who had started to frown at her description.
"Oh, but not in a biker sense," She reassured her.
"Well, we have a wide selection over here in this glass cabinet," She said, ushering Buffy over to one of the display cases.
About an hour and hundred necklaces later, Buffy still had not found anything to catch her eye, there were only a handful left. Then at the very back of the cabinet, she finally found the perfect one, reaching in she removed it and held it up to the light. It had a long silver chain with a most unusual pendant attached to it. It was a strange looking stone with a symbol etched into it, and when held to the light it emitted a bluish glow.
"Oh it's beautiful, I'll take it!" exclaimed Buffy.
"It is very nice, do you want it gift wrapped?" asked the girl, enthusiastically.
Buffy left the magic shop, her wedding gift to Spike safely tucked away in her bag. She walked dreamily past a few shops. Stopping dead in her tracks outside a wedding dress shop. Placing her hands on the glass, she peered inside. It looked like an Aladdin's cave of goodies; in all the excitement, she couldn't believe she had forgotten an outfit. Just a little something she reasoned to herself, as she entered the shop.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
By the time Buffy arrived home, she felt like her feet no longer belonged to her body. Dropping her shopping bags in the hall, she collapsed onto the sofa. The house was quiet.
"Spike!" She called out.
"Upstairs pet," He replied
Buffy wearily dragged herself up off the sofa and trudged upstairs. She started to open the door.
"Don't come in!" Spike said
Buffy hesitated at the doorway.
"What's the matter Spike?" She asked, imagining all sorts of disasters.
"Nothing bad, it will just ruin the surprise, and it's bad luck," he said
"Oh Spike, that only applies to seeing the bride in her dress before its time," She giggled, opening the door slightly.
"Buffy! I humoured you about the separate sleeping arrangements," He reminded her.
"Ok Spike, don't have a mental," She snapped, walking off to the bathroom.
Spike smiled as he looked down at himself. He was wearing a beautiful black tuxedo, on loan from Giles's wardrobe. *Well the old git would never miss it would he? * Spike thought to himself. He fastened the black bow tie; it took some time as he had sadly got out of practise with it. Wishing more than ever that he had a reflection to work with. He quickly stripped off his 'borrowed suit' and carefully folded it, and placed it in Buffy's now empty weapons bag.
"Spike, I am coming in now," Said Buffy, pushing her way into their room.
"Be my guest goldilocks," Spike purred
Buffy squealed as she entered the room, and saw Spike standing there in his naked glory. Her face turning red as her eyes betrayed her, and they travelled the length of his magnificent body.
"See anything you like the look of Love?" He leered.
"No!" She said, clearing her head of its lust filled thoughts.
Buffy grabbed a robe off the chair in the corner, throwing it at Spike.
"You are a pig Spike," She grinned,
"So you keep telling me," he replied.
Spike put on the robe and sat down on the bed.
"There's lots still to do, and very little time left and I have a note to write to mom. I can't do this without your help," She pleaded
"Just tell me what you need," He said
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Suns going down love, it's time to go," Spike said, gently.
He touched Buffy on the arm, she jumped. Her thoughts at that moment, were far from her bedroom.
"Sorry ,I was in another world for a moment. Oh Spike I am so disappointed, neither mom nor Giles are home yet," She wailed.
Spike pulled her to him, as she cried.
"It's probably for the best, how would you explain bursting into tears at the thought of going on patrol?" He reasoned.
Buffy smiled at his words "Yeah I suppose you are right"
Spike picked up the weapons bag off the floor.
"Shall we go then love?" He asked
Buffy took one last look around her home; the next time she entered here, she would be Mrs Lovejoy. It was a sobering thought. She linked her arm through Spike's.
"Let's do it," She said.
TBC
Things Can Only Get Better
Buffy burst through the front door, Spike following in her wake. Joyce and Giles were seated together on the sofa.
"Hey you two, hope your not getting any of the old feelings back for each other," Buffy laughed,
Joyce shot up off the sofa. "Hi Buffy, what happened to you?" asked her mom, taking in her daughters dishevelled appearance.
"No big; Spike and I just ran into a Zauber demon," She shrugged
Giles sat forward on the sofa "Really? What happened? I could do with the excitement, things have been pretty dead on the hell mouth of late," said Giles.
"I really have to take a shower and burn these clothes, Spike can fill you in," said Buffy.
Buffy turned and ran up the stairs. Joyce and Giles waited expectantly for Spike to begin. At that moment Shakespeare poked his head around the kitchen door and whined.
"Looks like the mutt needs the loo," said Spike, secretly glad to be relieved of the third degree.
He looked at Giles "Wanna come for a walk mate? It is your bleedin' dog after all," asked Spike.
Spike went to get the dog's harness and fastened Shakespeare into it.
"Go on Giles, the fresh air will do you good," encouraged Joyce.
Giles sighed and rose unsteadily from the sofa, he knew when he was out voted.
"Okay, okay, could someone get me my coat?" He asked.
"Already here," said Joyce, placing the jacket in his outstretched hand.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Spike stayed close to Giles as they walked down Revello Drive. He glanced at Buffy's former watcher, a look of concentration etched on his face as he let himself be guided by his dog.
Giles had not been himself for months now. At first after Willow had gone away, he had been hopeful, that Xander would soon find her. However, as the months had passed hope had changed into bitterness. He hated having to be so reliant on the aid of others.
Spike fumbled about in his jacket for his smokes, he found them and lit up, exhaling deeply.
"Found out something interesting tonight," Spike told Giles.
"About the demon?" asked Giles
"No, but it did involve a demon; me, I found out that I'm not quite as toothless as every body thought," Said Spike.
"What are you talking about?" asked Giles, somewhat puzzled.
"You got yourself a new demon fighter, oh don't worry humans are still a no- no. But, if I hadn't gone on patrol tonight, you would have been searching for a new chosen one," Spike replied
"Thank you; Spike," muttered Giles.
The vampire's eyes widened, he shook his head wondering if his ears were playing tricks on him. These were the first friendly words he had had from Giles, and he felt oddly touched by them.
"Think nothing of it," He said quietly.
They both settled into a companionable silence.
*Watcher and vampire on a midnight stroll, Dru would appreciate that one* Spike thought to himself.
"I understand you better than you think mate," He said to Giles.
"How so?" asked Giles.
"I was stuck in a wheelchair for months after Buffy dropped a church organ on me. Hated it, had to rely on Dru for everything. Worst bloody time of my unlife, even had her bringing me dogs to feed on," he grinned.
Giles chuckled
"I never knew that, guess you do understand me. I hate this incapacity; if we find Willow, she will have to do some sort of forgetting spell on me, because I am not sure if I can forgive her for these past few months," said Giles.
Spike patted Giles on the shoulder.
"Do you really think Willow has any idea of what she has done?" He asked
"Looking at it from your point of view, you would be Willow's champion. Nevertheless, while we are getting things off our chests, although it pains me to admit it, Buffy has been happier since Willow's spell. And a lot of that is down to you Spike," He finished awkwardly.
"We will have to go on these walks a bit more often mate; it certainly improves your mood. And just for reference the spell only affected you and Xander, Buffy and I have immunity, being a slayer and a vampire," He growled.
Giles sighed, this was one argument he had no chance of winning.
"That's enough for one night, shall we make our way back?" Said Giles, a little wearily.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Spike entered the Bedroom, drooling at the sight that was Buffy. She was asleep on the bed wrapped in a fluffy bath towel. He took off his coat and laid it at the foot of the bed. Working his way up the bed until he was face to face with her. He blew on her exposed neck, the coolness of his breath caused her skin to pucker and she shivered.
"Nice try Spike, but your bed is on the floor tonight," She muttered sleepily.
For the first time since entering the room, he noticed the pile of blankets and pillows on the bedroom floor. He sat up in indignation.
"Come on pet, have a heart," He pleaded
Buffy opened her eyes
"It's traditional, the bride and groom always spend the night before the wedding apart. Besides if you sleep on here with me, we know how that will work out," She replied.
Spike grinned "Would that be so very bad love?"
"Spike please!" She pleaded
"Ok, I know when I am defeated, it will give me plenty of time to rest up for the big night. So you had better make sure you get a good nights sleep, because you won't be getting much tomorrow," he promised.
Spike settled down on the hard floor in his makeshift bed. Oh well, he had slept in worse places. He closed his eyes conjuring up images in his head of the days to come, and he swiftly fell asleep with a big silly grin on his face.
The day of their wedding, dawned bright and warm. Buffy awoke and stretched with feline grace, she looked lovingly at the figure still fast asleep on the floor. Spike muttered something in his sleep and turned over. He looked most uncomfortable, Buffy's heart melted at the sight of him, after this night, this wonderful man would be hers, heart, body and soul. Well maybe not soul she thought forlornly, but two out of three wasn't bad.
She looked at her watch on the bedside table. It was 9am, Buffy's eyes widened in alarm. She scrambled out of bed. There was still so much to do. After a quick shower, Buffy hurried downstairs. Giles was already out of bed. Dressed and shaved, looking very much like the Giles of old.
"Hey Giles, what's up?" She asked.
Buffy couldn't help the rush of tears that stung her eyes. Seeing him like this was like all her Christmases coming at once, well almost.
"Morning Buffy, thought I might go to the public library today, was told they have excellent resources for people with my um disabilities," He said
Buffy smiled sadly, and wiped away a tear.
"That's great Giles you have spent too long indoors," said Buffy.
"You are right, I have to stop feeling sorry for myself. I have to have faith that Xander and Anya will find Willow, even if they don't life still has to go on," He smiled.
Buffy fondly kissed her watcher on the cheek.
"I am getting some coffee, want some?" She asked.
"No thanks tea is more my poison," He said, holding up his mug.
The kitchen was empty; Joyce had already left for work. Buffy felt a sharp disappointment lance through her; she really hoped her mom wouldn't be late home from the gallery tonight. She felt terrible for deceiving every one, but this was the only road left open to them. Buffy really needed to see her mom before leaving; it was after all her wedding day. After a quick look at the clock, Buffy gulped down her hot coffee; only narrowly missing first degree burns to her mouth. Slopping the remains down on the counter, she left through the backdoor.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
The bell rang out as Buffy entered the magic shop. A young girl she had never seen before, beamed at her nervously from behind the counter. Buffy smiled back and approached her.
"Hi," said Buffy
"How can I help you?" asked the girl.
"I am looking for something special; I am getting married tonight and I know it's leaving it a bit late, but I am looking for a present for my husband to be," said Buffy.
The girl looked dreamily at her.
"Awww that's so sweet, what kind of things is he into? I need some ideas here," said the girl.
Buffy thought for a moment
"Well he likes leather, not adverse to the odd bit of jewellery,"
Buffy looked at the girl who had started to frown at her description.
"Oh, but not in a biker sense," She reassured her.
"Well, we have a wide selection over here in this glass cabinet," She said, ushering Buffy over to one of the display cases.
About an hour and hundred necklaces later, Buffy still had not found anything to catch her eye, there were only a handful left. Then at the very back of the cabinet, she finally found the perfect one, reaching in she removed it and held it up to the light. It had a long silver chain with a most unusual pendant attached to it. It was a strange looking stone with a symbol etched into it, and when held to the light it emitted a bluish glow.
"Oh it's beautiful, I'll take it!" exclaimed Buffy.
"It is very nice, do you want it gift wrapped?" asked the girl, enthusiastically.
Buffy left the magic shop, her wedding gift to Spike safely tucked away in her bag. She walked dreamily past a few shops. Stopping dead in her tracks outside a wedding dress shop. Placing her hands on the glass, she peered inside. It looked like an Aladdin's cave of goodies; in all the excitement, she couldn't believe she had forgotten an outfit. Just a little something she reasoned to herself, as she entered the shop.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
By the time Buffy arrived home, she felt like her feet no longer belonged to her body. Dropping her shopping bags in the hall, she collapsed onto the sofa. The house was quiet.
"Spike!" She called out.
"Upstairs pet," He replied
Buffy wearily dragged herself up off the sofa and trudged upstairs. She started to open the door.
"Don't come in!" Spike said
Buffy hesitated at the doorway.
"What's the matter Spike?" She asked, imagining all sorts of disasters.
"Nothing bad, it will just ruin the surprise, and it's bad luck," he said
"Oh Spike, that only applies to seeing the bride in her dress before its time," She giggled, opening the door slightly.
"Buffy! I humoured you about the separate sleeping arrangements," He reminded her.
"Ok Spike, don't have a mental," She snapped, walking off to the bathroom.
Spike smiled as he looked down at himself. He was wearing a beautiful black tuxedo, on loan from Giles's wardrobe. *Well the old git would never miss it would he? * Spike thought to himself. He fastened the black bow tie; it took some time as he had sadly got out of practise with it. Wishing more than ever that he had a reflection to work with. He quickly stripped off his 'borrowed suit' and carefully folded it, and placed it in Buffy's now empty weapons bag.
"Spike, I am coming in now," Said Buffy, pushing her way into their room.
"Be my guest goldilocks," Spike purred
Buffy squealed as she entered the room, and saw Spike standing there in his naked glory. Her face turning red as her eyes betrayed her, and they travelled the length of his magnificent body.
"See anything you like the look of Love?" He leered.
"No!" She said, clearing her head of its lust filled thoughts.
Buffy grabbed a robe off the chair in the corner, throwing it at Spike.
"You are a pig Spike," She grinned,
"So you keep telling me," he replied.
Spike put on the robe and sat down on the bed.
"There's lots still to do, and very little time left and I have a note to write to mom. I can't do this without your help," She pleaded
"Just tell me what you need," He said
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Suns going down love, it's time to go," Spike said, gently.
He touched Buffy on the arm, she jumped. Her thoughts at that moment, were far from her bedroom.
"Sorry ,I was in another world for a moment. Oh Spike I am so disappointed, neither mom nor Giles are home yet," She wailed.
Spike pulled her to him, as she cried.
"It's probably for the best, how would you explain bursting into tears at the thought of going on patrol?" He reasoned.
Buffy smiled at his words "Yeah I suppose you are right"
Spike picked up the weapons bag off the floor.
"Shall we go then love?" He asked
Buffy took one last look around her home; the next time she entered here, she would be Mrs Lovejoy. It was a sobering thought. She linked her arm through Spike's.
"Let's do it," She said.
TBC