Title: Forever Broken

Author: Nirvana

Rating: R

Category: Romance/Angst

Summary: AU. Set in the year 2066, Spike Spiegel and Faye Valentine meet and an inevitable attraction arises. Unintentionally, the two begin a possessive affair under the worst circumstances.

Disclaimer: We all know the drill, but I must say it anyway. I do not own Cowboy Bebop or any of the characters they rightfully belong to their respective owners.

Chapter 10-Exposé

Faye had forgotten that she had promised to meet Vicious that night. She could almost picture it. A dinner for two, soft music, glowing candles, and him, showering her with gifts. He was trying to cheer her up, to distract her from all the nights she had wept. So, instead of keeping her word to him. She ended up meeting Spike and receiving the blow her life. Literally. She touched her cheek and felt a tremor of pain and the flash of memory of how the bruise came to be. Even though she now had a right to be angry with him, for daring to touch her the way he did, she still thought of him constantly. And every woman knew that the only way to properly banish bad thoughts was too drink until you couldn't any longer.

Faye stumbled out of the nightclub, her breathing coming in quick heaves. The pounding music was still hammering in her head and the flashing lights had momentarily blinded her. She could feel it, the very beginnings of a strong hangover from too much alcohol. But Faye didn't care, it was a small price to pay if she could feel happy for the rest of the night. So why, she wondered, why did she feel so miserable? She leaned against the brick wall of the club before reaching into her pockets. Her fingers fumbled, but she was able to pull out her last cigarette and her lighter, she lit it before pressing it to her lips in delight. This is what she needed. No worries, no anger, no sadness. Just giddiness.

Faye glanced up when she noticed two men walk out of the club, laughing loudly and holding bottles of beer. They glanced at her before one of them whistled. She sighed, finding this scenario too familiar. Why, she wondered, for one night why couldn't men just leave her alone? She had been hoping they would do their staring and be on their way but instead, they approached. Their eyes were glazed over from alcohol and driven by wanton.

"Hey," The first one greeted. His body was drenched in sweat and Faye shot him a look of disgust.

"Are you here all alone?" The second one asked. He flashed her a toothy grin, giving her a perfect view of his rotting teeth.

She smiled sweetly. "Hey, why don't you guys do me a favor." Faye said, her smile vanished, "Leave me in peace. You see, I've had very bad day and the last thing I want to do to you guys is hurt you. It wouldn't be fair."

At this, both men broke into a fit of laughter. The first one recovered quickly. "Listen, I know you type of whores. You try and pretend that you're all tough, but in the end, you always need our money." He pulled out seven hundred woolongs before waving it in front of Faye's eyes. "I'll give it to you for just of few hours of fun. That's all me and my friend want."

Faye threw down her cigarette before she started walking away. But the second man stepped in front of her, his smile vanishing. "I believe my friend was talking to you. Isn't it a little rude to walk away?" He suddenly pushed her and Faye's back hit the wall. She gripped at her head for a second, a wave of dizziness washing over her. She really did not need this right now. But if they insisted, who was she to deny them?

"I think we should teach her a lesson." The first suggested, knuckles cracking and his eyes traveling over Faye's body.

"I believe so." The second agreed before he stepped closer.

Faye held up her hands as a sign for them to halt. "Wait a second." She instructed before digging into her pockets once more. She pulled out a pair of leather gloves and put them on. "I just got my nails done the other day." She explained in a sing-song tone. "Don't want to break them now, do I?" She curled her hands into fists and bent her knees as her eyes narrowed. "I'm ready." This is what she had been craving for all day. The only way she could get rid of all her anger. The need to feel that which had always sustained her in the past, the heady rush of combat, the pure joy of fighting, intermingled with the need to just plain hit something—and hard.

The first man attacked her, swinging his fists blindly. Faye moved with ease and despite herself, a very arrogant smile graced her lips. She pulled her fist back before she felt the satisfying crack of her knuckles hitting his jaw. In one fluid motion, she lifted her leg before twirling and delivering a roundhouse kick to his head. Faye glanced at the ground for a second, seeing numerous drops of blood. He fell moments later, his eyes fluttering close. She looked back up at the second man and held up her fists, waiting.

"You can always run away." Faye suggested. "If I were you I would."

But like she had expected, he didn't. He lunged at her the same way his friend had. And she remembered shaking her head in disappointment and confusion. What was it about men and pride? She played with him for a little, letting him believe that he had some advantage over her. But that hope quickly faded. With a fast and hard swing of her leg, Faye hit him in a place where no man should be hit. He slouched forward, groaning in pain. She stepped forward, surprised at how well she had done even though she was indescribably drunk.

"I was actually hoping for a better fight." Faye murmured to herself. "Oh well, beggars can't be choosers." She grabbed the man by his hair and pulled him up to look at her. She beamed.

"Now, the next time you see a pretty woman on the street, you and your friend are not going to bother her, right?" Faye asked. When he nodded vigorously, her smile widened. "That's all I wanted to know. Let this be a lesson for you." She balled her hand into a fist. "Good night," Then connected her knuckles with the man's face. She let go of his hair, sighing and taking off her gloves and shoving them back into her pocket.

Before she could return to her own home, she had to go and pay a visit to Vicious, just to make up some excuse to cover up her unplanned escapade. Instead of taking a taxi, Faye decided to walk. Just to clear her head and come up with any answers to possible questions Vicious would ask. When she did reach his home, beyond the city limits, she was ready. She walked past the open gates and through the garden and water fountains. She stopped once she reached the front door. Faye raised her hand to grasp the knob and suddenly held back. Then making up her mind, she grabbed it.

Slowly, Faye turned the doorknob and stepped in. Quietly, she closed the door behind her and took a few steps into the mansion's foyer. She took that time to look at everything, she had only been here a few times before. It had to be at least one in the morning; the butlers and maids had been sent home. She walked towards the tall stairs, the occasional window left open to let in any passing breeze. But still, it was kind of eerie. A chill ran down Faye's spine.

She made her way up the marble stairs. Her white boots hitting sharply against the floor and echoing in the deserted halls. Faye reached the top of the stairs and continued on to her destination. She stopped when she noticed she had gotten to Vicious' bedroom doors. Pushing one of the doors open, a sigh of relief escaped her lips as she saw the figure in the large bed.

"He's asleep," Faye muttered to herself. But once she came closer, she realized that the 'person' was nothing but several pillows. Her heart began to race as she looked around her. So where was-?

"Faye..." She bit down on her lip nervously, her emerald shifting from one corner of the room to another. But never finding exactly where the voice was coming from. It seemed to be everywhere at once.

"Vicious," She called out cautiously, taking a step back. "I can't see you. I don't-"

A silent gasp left Faye's mouth as strong arms wrapped themselves around her frame, gently yet firmly. Half-heartedly, she hit his arm before a quiet laugh escaped from her lips. She hated the way he loved to scare her.

"Faye, I was waiting for you." He informed her, wisps of his hair ticking her neck.

"Gomen nasai...it's a Friday night. I wanted to go out."

"Where?"

"Nowhere in particular, just a few nightclubs."

Abruptly, Vicious whirled Faye around to face him, the action being so fast that she couldn't help but cry out softly. He stared at her; his gaze so strangely intense. Almost as if he were searching for something, the secrets she would not say. Something that only her eyes could tell him. Then a smirk curved his lips, too unholy to go unnoticed. One hand moved from Faye's waist to her yellow top.

"I waited," He stated again, his eyes darkening. "waited hours for you..."

Faye felt herself stiffen as his fingers began to unfasten her top. While the other, removed the red sweater from her arms.

"Vicious please...it's too late." And she meant that in more ways than one.

But he ignored her protest and pushed her onto the bed. Vicious straddled Faye beneath him, his smirk still in place. Her heart was beating too quickly, she tried to breathe in, but it didn't seem to help her. If she gave in, this would actually be the first time she and Vicious made love. She smiled mentally, how could it be called making love when she no longer...

Faye never felt the cold ring slip onto her finger. But Vicious cupped her chin and turned her to face him. "Marry me,"

At this, she glanced at her finger and it took her breath away. A beautiful, diamond engagement ring. Then the guilt hit her tenfold. "Vicious..."

"Say yes," He replied, almost pleading. He kissed her neck while his fingers traveled up her legs. "Please, Faye."

"Vicious," She tried to say more, but all she could manage was his name.

"Tell me you'll marry me." Vicious implored again.

"Tell me you love me." Spike stated.

"I know that we've only dated for a few months but I love you. Once I met you, it was like falling into a perfect dream." Vicious kissed her cheek tenderly. "I need you, Faye. Please be my wife."

"I love you." The three words were finally said, and she realized then that she meant it.

And I still do, Faye thought. Her hand brushed past her bruised cheek. I still love you, Spike.

She should have been happy right now. When she first met Vicious, the one thing she wanted him to do was propose to her. Faye even questioned if she had even loved him at all. Or that she did but fell out of love just as quickly. That was the one thing she would never be able to figure out. Now, she was about to break Vicious' heart. Even if she was angry with Spike or that he was trying to avoid her, it didn't matter anymore. I love you, Faye declared mentally, and I will make you see it.

"I...can't." She whispered. She visibly tensed when Vicious stopped his advances to gaze at her.

"What?"

"I can't, not right now." Faye repeated. She managed to peel herself away from him and stand up. Slowly, she buttoned her top and slipped her feet into her shoes. She tried to smile. "Vicious, I'm only eighteen. I've barely been able to live my life. I can't marry you, at least not yet. Not until I'm older. You have to remember, I'm still a teenager," Her head lowered. "Just a little girl." It was the best excuse she could come up with. She couldn't bluntly tell him that she was in love with someone else.

Vicious stood, he attempted to bring her to him. "Faye-"

She moved away from him. "Listen, I'm going to go home." Her smile brightened. "I have the worst hangover and I need to just rest for a while. I promise we can do something together later. Maybe lunch or a movie." She was already at the door, turning the knob, and walking down the hall when she murmured her last words. "Goodbye, Vicious." But Faye made sure he could not possibly hear her sincere apology to him.

And she knew at that moment, her whole world was about to break apart.

-

Julia stepped out of the limousine and walked towards the glass doors of the casino. It didn't matter if it was day or night, this place was still busy with people willing to risk everything to be rich. She sighed, still a little anxious to be here but glad to get outside and keep herself distracted. She remembered looking in the mirror and realizing how pathetic she looked. And the way her 'lover' was acting wasn't helping. Spike would always pretend he didn't notice whenever she started to cry. But right now, she was sick of crying every single night. She was tired of hoping that the inevitable would come. In other words, she was livid and wanted to release it. Julia walked around for a while, hoping to find the single woman she was looking for. Instead she noticed a familiar face approaching her. She smiled politely.

"Good afternoon, Julia-sama." Tara greeted. "May I ask what brings you to this casino?"

"I'm here to see Poker Alice." Julia responded. "I'd like to play a game or two."

"Sure," Tara nodded, she started walking, gesturing her employer to follow. "She's right this way."

She led her up a flight of stairs and down a hall, the crowds of people thinning and the music becoming faint. They finally came to halt at a finely carved oak door. Tara knocked before reaching for the knob and turning it. She glanced inside and beamed at her friend. "Alice," She called. "you have another customer."

Faye smiled back, she needed to rob someone of their money right now. But when Tara pushed the door open to reveal Julia, her smile vanished. With a wave, her friend closed the door behind her and she was left with the woman she despised. The blond silently seated herself in front of Poker Alice and just stared at her. It was Faye who eventually spoke.

"What a surprise," Her voice was dripping with sarcasm. "And what do I owe the pleasure?"

"I came to play," Julia responded simply. "And talk."

Faye's eyes narrowed slightly. "I would have never pictured you as the gambling type." In her hands was a deck of cards. "What game?"

"Blackjack," She reached into her purse and flashed a thick stack woolongs. "We'll play for this."

Faye placed the cards on the table, her lips curving into a frown. "Julia, what do you really want? There are hundreds of casinos in this city alone. Why did you come to this one?"

"I've heard so much about your skills, I just had to see for myself."

"Or did you come here to talk about Spike?" Faye would have smiled when she saw Julia go rigid. But she remained just as cool and confident as before.

Julia relaxed, then said, "Actually, I came here to talk to you about Vicious." She glanced down at Faye's left hand, at the engagement ring. "I see that you have accepted his proposal. But, if I am correct, weren't you the one who told me you know barely anything about him? I believe women usually wait about a year or two after they meet someone before they tie the knot."

"Julia, whatever you need to say, just say it. I don't have time for this."

"What I need to say...will take a while." She glanced at her watch. "It's almost noon. Don't you have a lunch break coming up?" When Faye nodded, she smiled. "There's a restaurant near by, it's my treat."

Faye stared at her for a long time before she nodded her acceptance. Something...just wasn't right about this. She grabbed her own purse and she and Julia left the small room before leaving the casino. Faye watched as a limousine pulled up once they were outside. Julia opened the door and stepped in and Faye climbed in after her, her heart racing with apprehension. The ride was brief, but all the while the two women said nothing to one another. Once they reached the restaurant, they both stepped out.

Faye looked to see a long line of people waiting to get inside. She followed Julia as she walked through the crowds to the front of the line. It took only seconds before Julia, with her beautiful smile, was able to cleverly get herself and Faye to a table. They seated themselves and Faye opted to keep her gaze on one of the windows and away from Julia.

"Do you remember what I told you?" She questioned. "That night at the party?"

Faye was silent for a moment before she spoke. "How could I forget that? You...were so cold."

"That may be true, but believe it or not, I was only telling you that for your own good."

"That's hard to believe."

Julia, like Faye, looked outside to the busy metropolis. "There were others, Faye, like I said before. Many other women before you came along and changed everything. But there was one single girl. I don't know if Vicious ever loved her but he was so close to it that it was hard to tell the difference. Do remember a woman named Elise Toshikino?"

"Of course," Faye answered. "She was one of the greatest supermodels in the solar system. How could anyone not know her?"

"It's funny." Julia commented after a moment. "When I think about her, I think about you, Faye. You and her had so much in common. Rebellious, mysterious, kind. I remember when I saw Elise in person for the first time, she was so beautiful. Hair as dark as night and pale, green eyes that could stare at you forever.

"Vicious started dating her when he was nineteen, back when our business was still starting. For the first few months, they were perfect together. Elise was vivacious, Vicious was withdrawn. But they complemented each other so well," Julia smiled. "It was kind of like an opposites attract thing. For a while, I truly believed that maybe he found the one person in this world that could bring him happiness, but that all changed.

"A few months later, Elise started to become quiet around him, distant. Anyone who knew them realized that their relationship was starting to break apart. They argued over trivial things and then, Vicious started to become possessive. I believe Elise had made plans to break up with him, but now that I think about it, I'm not too sure.

"Then one night, after another argument, Vicious wanted to reconcile with her. He went to Elise's apartment, and what he found shattered his whole world." Julia looked at Faye. "She was sleeping with another man." She smirked, almost as if she were telling Faye about the latest gossip. "Elise had cheated on him and...she'd didn't care. In a way, that made her just like Vicious. Like him, she had so many lovers, slept with too many men. Now, Vicious was just another person on her list. But he couldn't take it. He was always a man who never liked to be used by others. He used people, he deceived people, not the other way around."

Faye clenched her fists, her heart racing. But she kept her voice calm. "What does this have to do with me, Julia?"

A strange flicker appeared in her blue eyes. "Do you remember how Elise died, Faye?" She asked. "How it was talked about for months?"

Faye felt her blood run cold. "They said it was overdose or probably suicide. I don't really remember. But it was in the tabloids, newspapers, television, everywhere you could possibly think of."

Julia smiled, her fingertip idly playing with a curl of her hair. "They say that it was suicide. They it was overdose and many more things. But no one will ever really know. There was never enough evidence found and the police suspected that Elise's death could have possibly been homicide. And whoever might have murdered her, knew her very well." A thoughtful expression embellished her face. "Maybe it was a stalker, they're always careful." She leaned forward. "But can you imagine? A past lover watching your every move because you broke their heart, took their love for granted, and completely humiliated them?"

Emerald eyes widened, the realization was like a knife tearing her flesh. "W-what are y-you saying?" Faye stuttered, she couldn't breathe. Why was she so scared? "That Vicious killed...?"

"Why are you so nervous, Faye?" Julia asked in a mock innocence. "It was just a story I wanted to share with you." She glanced at her watch. "Anyway, I need to get back to work. If you'll excuse me." She stood and was about to take her leave. Instead, she turned to look at the stunned Faye. Her face no longer held that happy look, her eyes were so cold. "That is why we are known as the trio, Faye. Spike, Vicious, and I keep secrets among ourselves." She started walking away, her voice drifting. "No matter how terrible those secrets may be."

-

"I've been waiting here for the past hour, Vicious." Spike muttered quietly. His eyes darted back from his watch to the vidphone. "When will you decide to show up?"

"Give me another hour...or two." Vicious responded, his gaze never left his laptop. The keystrokes were soft but swift. "You have no idea how close we are to getting this contract."

"You do realize it is the weekend? All that mess can wait until Monday."

"You seem normal again."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

Vicious stopped typing and glanced up. "Don't play stupid. You, along with Julia, have been acting so strangely." He wanted to ask him. What had Spike been doing on Earth? Why had he been with Faye? But he never did. "Is something the matter?" He inquired. "Something I should know?"

Spike raised an eyebrow, his expression never changing. "I've had a bad week." He explained simply. "It happens to the best of us." He smiled good naturedly. "But I must say, it seems to happen to you every single day, Vicious."

Vicious frowned and Spike's grin widened.

"Is anyone in the house?" Vicious eventually asked, he went back to typing.

"No, the maids left a while along."

"Then just make yourself at home until I get there. I'll be quick."

"All right." Spike replied. "See ya."

The screen went black as the call ended and Spike leaned against the wall, sighing. He glanced at the envelope in his hands. He had wanted to make the delivery quick. But instead, he ended up spending his whole afternoon at his best friend's house. Oh well, he still had the whole night. But that depended on when Vicious would decide to finally come home.

Spike glanced out the window, at the gradually setting sun. But what really caught his attention was the storm clouds gathering in the sky and the quiet but steady rumble of thunder that promised a storm. What could he do now? He had already raided Vicious' refrigerator and had had his fill of ridiculous game shows and clichéd soap operas. Spike looked up, at the long winding stairs as the wheels in his head started to turn. No one was around and once he was done snooping, he could fix everything up. He smiled, Vicious would never know.

Spike started up the stairs, past the hallway and into Vicious' bedroom. He started with the nightstand, searching through all the papers and belongings. He stopped once he discovered a rare picture of the all too familiar woman with the violet hair and emerald eyes. She was blushing wildly, her face partially covered by her hand, and she was smiling beautifully. Even though he tried, he couldn't look away.

Briefly, Spike wondered what or who had made her so happy. Then his thoughts started to drift to their time on Earth. He remembered her sideway glances, her grins, the way she'd shyly take his hand in hers. Then his thoughts shifted to Vicious. He knew Julia had long suspected, now Vicious was starting to realize something was wrong too.

He was brought out of his thoughts when he heard the quiet blast of water. Quickly, he placed the photograph back in the drawer before standing up and walking into the hall. Spike listened carefully before entering the guestroom at the end of the corridor. Along with the streaming water, he could hear a voice and faint footfalls. His eyes drifted to the bathroom door and as quietly as possible, he pushed it open.

He was greeted by Faye's voice, she was singing.

"There are two of us talking in circles. And one of us who wants the leave," Her voice would fade in and out, some of the words muttered under her breath. "In a world created for only us..."

Her song was depressing, dark. Spike could barely hear her voice, he was too distracted with making sure she didn't seem him.

"An empty cage that has no key. Don't you know that we're working with flesh and blood, carving out of jealousy..." Spike watched, hypnotized as she raised her arms above her head. "Crawling into each other, it's smothering, every little part of me." Faye's singing softened into humming. Her hips were swinging slowly to a silent rhythm she could only hear. He watched her through the shower curtain, his eyes lazily drinking in all her curves.

And before Spike could stop himself, he pulled the curtain away.

In that brief second, his eyes met Faye's scarred back, all those horrible marks that decorated her pale skin.

The moment passed and then he was looking into her shocked emerald eyes.

-

Julia remembered running so fast, her heart racing and a flutter in her stomach that excited her. She was almost finish, everything was working so perfectly. Now it was time for the grand finale. And then...Faye would be out of her life, all of their lives. She sprinted down the deserted hall. The employees had left hours ago but she knew he was here. He always here, alone, relentlessly working. She reached the end of the hall and opened the grand doors. She ran past the secretary's desk before barging into the main office.

Surprised, but barely evident on his features, Vicious looked up. "Julia," He murmured.

Her gaze darted to every corner in the room. "He's not here."

"Who? Spike?" When she nodded, he continued. "He's at my house."

At this, Julia visibly tensed. "I've been looking everywhere for him. He didn't return my calls."

Briefly, Vicious was reminded of the conversation he and Julia had overheard. He wondered...

"You can stop over there." He suggested. "Or you can wait until I'm finished and we-" He cut himself off when he noticed the first tear spill down her face. Despite this, she was smiling.

"Why do you love her?" Julia asked. She ran a hand through her hair in frustration. "I don't understand what is so special about her. Just tell me, so I can finally know." Her next questions were very quiet. "Does Faye remind you of Elise? Or...is it something else about her that you just can't leave alone?" Julia had never noticed that it was raining until she heard the loud clasp of thunder. She looked up when she knew Vicious was near her, staring so intently. For a second, there was blind anger in his icy gaze, then it was gone.

"There's no use trying to deny it anymore." She confessed. She laughed a little. "I thought Spike and I would always be together. But I never realized that he was just a man, like every other. I thought he was above it all, it never crossed my mind that he would cheat on me...with your Faye."

Vicious suddenly gripped at her, twirled her even. For a moment, she felt like she was dancing, being held, being loved. It reminded her of all those countless times of Spike and his embrace.

The moment was fleeting.

"What are you talking about?" He urged quietly.

Julia was no longer crying. "Think about it." She whispered in his ear. "Spike is at your house, but where is Faye?" She smiled again, almost as if she were telling a child a story. "It's evening now and she's probably finished her shift at the casino. It's Friday, the night is still young. The perfect time to spend it with someone she loves. She wants to see you. If Faye isn't here with us, Vicious, then where is she?" She looked away from him. "You know, despite everything that's happened, I still love him. I want him all to myself. Having Spike was like having the sweetest candy in the world. He was addictive, consuming. I loved the way he made me feel like I was the most beautiful girl." Julia looked at Vicious. "Isn't that the way Faye made you feel?"

"Faye..." A million emotions past through his eyes. "She can't-"

"I'm telling right now. Faye is with Spike, at your house." An anger came to her voice, sharpening her words. "Do something, stop pretending you don't realize it too!"

Vicious suddenly let her go before he grabbed his coat. Just as the office door slammed shut and she was left alone, Julia fell to her knees, a smile curving her lips.

Just a little more time, and Faye would be gone from their lives.

-

Faye stared at him, goose bumps racing up her body as the cold air touched her skin. She attempted to cover herself but seconds later, she let her arms drop to her sides. It was useless trying to hide from Spike. He had seen everything about her, inside and out. She couldn't remember how long he stared at her and she at him. They continued to gaze at one another even as the water that hit her bare form became cold.

Faye watched Spike with apprehension as he finally stepped towards her, his arm extended. Instead of backing away, she stood her ground. Her emotions were already on a high, she didn't want to see him yet. She was not ready. The only reason she had come to Vicious' home was to have questions answered. Then she wanted to leave, run away again and start over in a different city and on another planet. She wanted to forget everything.

Especially Spike.

But all those thoughts left her when he grasped her hand.

Faintly, she could feel his other hand on her cheek, tracing the bruise with his fingertip. Then his hand moved to her back, he swept his palm over every cut and burn, his eyes never leaving hers.

"You're beautiful like this." Spike suddenly complemented. Faye was distracted by his words, even more so when his fingers gripped at the engagement ring she wore, pulling it from her finger. She gave in to him without a fight. "My beautiful Faye," He smiled and she felt her defenses break. "Never tied down and never tamed."

Her hand twitched sporadically, she itched to touch him. Even for one last time.

Faye was brought out her thoughts when she heard her engagement ring hit the rim of the tub before skidding towards the drain. She took that opportunity to clutch at Spike's hand. One more time, she told herself, just this once.

"How?" She inquired gently. She placed his palm against her cheek. Faye shivered again when she felt his other hand trace a particularly long scar on her shoulder blade. "How do you make me feel this way? Even after I've done everything to drive you out?" She dragged his hand from her cheek down to her chest. Spike could feel her heart pounding madly. "I didn't mean it," Faye admitted. "I didn't mean it when I said I hated you. But...there was moment when I wanted to. I wanted to make you just as angry as I felt, just as horrible, just as hurt."

"Faye-"

She hugged him to her, breathed in his scent. "Love me, Spike." She pulled at his coat until it hit the ground. "Just this once," Her breathing became uneven, shallow. "Love me like I love you." Faye worked on the buttons of his shirt, on his tie. Her fingers were patient but swift.

Spike brought her face to his and kissed her, in a fervor so intense, it took her breath away. The rest of his clothes joined the pile on the floor. He lifted her up, and she wrapped her legs around him. He turned her out of the path of the water and used the edge of the tub for support. And Faye, with sweet anticipation, looked forward to the moment when she would forget everything.

-

Vicious ran, even as the rain became heavier and dark clouds loomed over the city. She's alone with him, he thought, she's alone with him. Even now, he still couldn't understand it. He trusted Faye. So why...?

"You have really pretty eyes," A woman's melodious voice commented.

Of all the times he could have been bothered, it had to be now. The day hadn't gone well for him and the only place he could find solitude was in the park. Vicious looked away from the setting sun to the person who stood next to him. What he noticed first was her smile, bright and dazzling. Her hair was as dark as the night and her eyes spoke of all the secret joys of the world. The wind suddenly picked up, playing with each strand of her hair. The breeze carried her scent. Lilacs.

"You think so?" He asked, he was a little curious.

"Yes," She responded. She stepped closer and Vicious got a better look at her eyes. They were green. "It's not every day, or at least for me, that you see a handsome man with gray eyes." She held out a delicate hand. "My name is a Elise. And you are?"

"Are you hitting on me?" He was blunt, his words a little more harsh than he had liked.

The woman known as Elise raised an eyebrow. "Yes," She answered, almost proudly. "So, are you going to tell me your name or am I going to have to guess?"

It troubled him, every single second of the day. Whenever he looked at Faye, he always remembered blood. So much blood.

He remembered watching her for so long. Watched how her chest rose and fell in deep breaths, and how that enigmatic smile would come to her lips when she dreamt. She was an angel, or maybe a sleeping beauty. Eventually, Elise's eyes fluttered open and she sat up, bringing the sheets up to cover her body. Still lost in sleep, she reached blindly for her robe. And once she slipped it on, she grinned to herself. Vicious knew what she was thinking about, he was the only man who knew her so well.

Last night, he remembered arguing with her for hours. Then, she left and he followed her. He wasn't ready to let her go, and if their relationship was about to end, he wanted to part on good terms. But he still wanted to make up with her. Maybe go to the movies or have dinner at a beautiful restaurant. Whatever it took just to make her smile. Yet that all changed.

The very moment Elise..

Vicious watched her as she moved to the kitchen. She filled a kettle with water before placing it on the stove. She flew from one cabinet to the next, grabbing plates and teacups, and humming a tune that echoed throughout her apartment. He liked to believe she was getting ready to see him, waiting patiently like the lover he wanted her to be. But again, he felt that anger come over him when he watched that stranger creep out of Elise's room to greet her with an embrace. He seemed familiar, but Vicious could not remember where he had seen him before.

"Please," Elise begged. "Stay a little longer, I'm making breakfast for us." She kissed his cheek and Vicious felt his hands clench.

"I'd love to but I have an appointment to keep." He whispered. "Maybe we can see each other tonight."

She frowned slightly. "I had that date with Vicious." She shrugged. "I can just cancel that and meet up with you later."

He kissed Elise then, very tenderly before letting her go, walking to the bedroom. Despite the dull pain in his heart, Vicious smiled. It was now that he wanted to make his presence known. All he needed to do was take care of him first...

She swore under her breath when the plate hit the ground, breaking into pieces. Sighing, Elise dropped to her knees and began to carefully pick up the glass. She stopped when she heard a soft thud. She glanced behind her, towards the bedroom door, nothing. She heaved a sigh again, she was just imagining things. Elise stood, the remains of the plate in her hands. She walked to the trash bin, dumped every piece of glass, and nearly yelped when she came face to face with Vicious.

Elise smiled. "Vicious...what are you doing here?" She glanced quickly at the front door, it was closed and locked. The look didn't go unnoticed by him. "I didn't hear you come in."

He shrugged his shoulders. "Do I need a reason to come see my girlfriend?" He answered with his own question.

"No, of course not." She replied. "You just startled me." She played with her fingers. "Listen, Vicious, you caught me at a bad time. I have to get to work soon. So maybe I can give you a call later on, okay? We can make plans for tonight."

Vicious knew that Elise could be the perfect liar, but she always gave herself away. Whenever she played with her hands, it was a crucial sign that exposed her anxiety. She was afraid of slipping up.

"Why Elise?" He asked simply.

She feigned a look of question. "I don't understand what you mean."

Within a second he had grabbed her by the arms. "Why?" Vicious asked again, his voice soft. It took him everything not to break his demeanor. But on the inside he was raging, driven only by fury. He wanted Elise to pay. "I gave you everything. Everything a woman could ever ask for. But still you slept with another man. Why?"

Elise bit down on her lip, it was the only sign of her discomfort. "So you know," She stated flatly, her smile disappearing. "Our relationship was already breaking apart, Vicious. In a matter of days, it would have been over. Besides, what I felt for you was fleeting. I don't know what else to tell you."

"I loved you," Vicious declared. "I still...love you. Don't you even care?"

She looked into his eyes, they were so strangely dark. "Vicious-" But she abruptly cut herself off when he pressed his hand against her face to cup her cheek. At another time and place, she would have been ecstatic from his rare display of affection. But she nearly felt her heart stop when he dragged his hand down to her chin, smearing blood on her face. The revelation was so strong that she didn't even notice the tears that slipped down her cheeks.

"W-what did y-you do?" Elise choked out.

She was trembling when Vicious smiled at her. She didn't wait for his answer before she pushed him away from her. She rushed to her bedroom. Blood, she had never seen so much blood in her life. And on her bed, was her lover's corpse, his eyes were still open, gazing at her. She whirled around, ready to call the police, ready to escape and find help. But she never had time to take a step, she didn't even get the chance to scream before she felt something hard smash against her head.

Vicious remembered the satisfying crack of her skull when her head connected with the music box grasped in his hand. He remembered watching her blood splatter against the wall, almost like paint. And he remembered the taste of copper, of her blood when he licked his lips. Elise stared up at him, at the smirk still plastered on his face. She lay crumpled on the floor and Vicious watched her, almost curiously, as she took her last breaths.

He had planned everything carefully. He took care of both bodies, he took care of the apartment. He cleaned the blood, burned the clothes and rags. He came up with his alibi, he wanted it to be flawless. Vicious did everything and then he waited. The weeks went by and he remembered the newspapers, police investigations, and television. Everyone wondered, everyone suspected, but no one knew. Then, he didn't know how, but Spike and Julia found out. It was a secret between them, the trio. Even now, no one ever really figured it out.

Vicious stopped, his gaze going to the sky. Whenever he thought about Elise, it was like experiencing a brooding fury. An anger that gradually rose to its peak and became unstoppable, almost like a storm. He continued on but instead of running he decided to walk. If he did catch Faye in the act, then so be it. If he did not, then he would find out...sooner or later.

-

Faye could only remember bits and pieces of the next few hours. They made love in the shower, against the hot spray of the water. They made love in Vicious' bed, between the cool, silk sheets, their voices echoing through the halls of the house. When his lips were close to her ear, Spike would murmur apologies, sweet nothings, and his love for her. And in the dim light of the thunder, Faye focused all her attention on his face, on his hauntingly beautiful eyes.

Faye felt it, the familiar feeling that was almost like fire lapping at her abdomen and back. It was like an inferno wherever he caressed her. The enticing heat came when he kissed her lips, wherever his fingertips stroked her flesh, and when the very hardness of his body nearly drove her over the edge. She quivered.

"Faye,"

Her eyes opened momentarily to gaze at him. Spike was looming over her, his eyes dancing with mischief in the shadows. Despite herself, a deep blush of embarrassment came to her cheeks. Spike was teasing her again. Faye's lips curved into a frown, but anyone could see the amusement on her face by his tactics. Taking a risk, she placed her palms on his chest, raking her fingernails against each line and ripple of solid muscle. Her frown became a grin when she was rewarded with a moan.

Faye continued her innocent exploration of his chest. Her hands traveled lower and just when she was about to reach for her prize, Spike grabbed her wrists. He managed to keep her steady, watched as she sucked in a breath when his hands barely touched her breasts. He leaned up, starting at her earlobe. She tried to struggle but when she felt him nip at her ear, Faye arched against him, a small giggle leaving her lips.

"Stop," She murmured. "That tickles, Spike."

Ignoring her protests, he repeated his actions until he left her in a fit a hysterics, her sides aching from her laughter. He traveled down to her neck, briefly meeting her gaze and gracing her with a smile. He leaned down and kissed her neck, tasting water and sweat. Faye fell silent and then went rigged when Spike abruptly bit her hard. He showered the bite with light kisses before he gently bit her again. Accompanied with it was more of a response.

Faye inhaled deeply when Spike moved her legs apart with his knee. She arched, trying to buck out of his hold again. But he didn't allow her the freedom she wanted. Instead, he watched her intently as she kept her eyes shut, her breathing a little uneven from anticipation. He suddenly let go of her wrists. Eventually, Faye's eyes opened and met his. And when they did, Spike kissed her.

He ravished her mouth while feverishly stroking her body with his palms. Faye lost herself as she willingly drowned within the taste of him. His kisses were heady and she was spinning head over heels as she fell deeper and deeper under the spell Spike had so flawlessly cast on her. His kisses were sweet, intense, and Faye only wanted more as his hands roamed her sides, as his tongue plundered my mouth, and as their bodies molded so perfectly together.

Spike only stopped kissing her for a breath of air before he claimed Faye's lips again. His mouth ground into hers and gradually he eased up with light pecks. He sat back to look at his performance. Her skin flushed pink, her chest heaving, emerald eyes darkened, and her lips thoroughly kissed. He gave her a toothy grin. Yet even through her hazed mind, Faye was able to reach up and cup his cheeks.

"I..." She sounded nervous. "I'm not Julia." Her hands were shaking but her eyes, they were burning with something that he couldn't place.

Smile fading, Spike stared down at her for several moments. Finally, he leaned down and kissed her tenderly. The feeling of his lips taking hers in a slow but demanding yet oh so delicate motion, left her gripping at him for dear life. And when he pulled away, she felt even weaker even though she wasn't standing.

"I don't want you to be." Spike answered. "Faye, I never wanted you to be."

He wanted Faye, he needed Faye. Julia didn't matter anymore.

He wouldn't regret this.

He hadn't so far.

Spike wrapped an arm around her waist, bringing her into his lap. He positioned himself, never taking his eyes off Faye's as he entered her slowly. Her eyes rolled back as a loud cry left her lips. He grasped her hips for leverage before lifting her up and driving her body down. Like before, Spike was gentle and slow with her. But his movements were almost pure torture for her. Faye tired to move her hips to silently tell him to thrust faster. But when his grip on her tightened, she knew he was doing this on purpose. He wanted to enjoy every moment.

The sounds of Spike's quiet grunts and moans echoed in Faye's ears while she felt his lips kiss her neck. His eyes watched every expression that crossed her face, and he relished in the fact that he was the cause of it. He moved against her with a force that left her breathless. He took her with each thrust of his hips, aiming to arouse all her of desires and needs. Breathing hard, Spike buried his face into Faye's shoulder while she combed her fingers through his hair.

When his thrusts became more frenzied, Faye arched as a moan left her lips. She clawed at his shoulders, Spike's name coming from her mouth with each exhale. Then that deliciously sweet sensation started to grow inside her. Spike began to push harder, more urgently. It only took a few more seconds before Faye screamed, her body shaking uncontrollably.

Spike continued to thrust into her and finally, she managed to say his name again, low and husky. That broke him and he gave in, her warmth latching onto him. They eventually collapsed on the bed, silent and trembling from the afterglow of their lovemaking. Faye gripped at him, and Spike took that moment to study her face once last time. He realized it now, there was no woman like her. None that was so provocative, exquisite, sincere, and kind. She was absolutely perfect.

Suddenly, Faye felt a shiver run down her spine. Not from the sudden chill in the air but from a bad feel that was almost like a dull pain in her heart. She wanted Spike to stay with her, she wanted to tell him everything. She didn't want anymore secrets between them.

"I..." She trailed off, and Spike never did ask about what she wanted to say. But still, he couldn't help but wonder.

Faye lightly kissed Spike before she rested her head against the pillows. Weariness had taken its toll on her and even though she was in her lover's embrace, she was still so afraid. Reality had sunken in for both of them.

Vicious would be here soon.

-

She wouldn't lie.

It was cold here.

Faye opened her eyes and just like she expected, Spike was gone. She sat up slowly, her gaze going towards the windows, to the dark and stormy sky. A sudden flash of thunder and for a second, she saw a shadow. She quickly looked towards the bedroom doors and saw nothing. But she did hear something.

"A music box...?" Faye murmured.

She climbed out of the bed and noticed that she was dressed in a negligee. Spike. Without even realizing it, she smiled. He had to be the responsible for this. Banishing her thoughts away, Faye walked out of the bedroom and followed the music. But it seemed to be everywhere, echoing endlessly. She checked every bedroom before finally walking down the marble stairwell towards the living room.

Her breathing stopped and that same fear came over her. Vicious was sitting down, his gaze on the music box that lay on the table. She was relieved, he hadn't even seemed to notice her presence. She knew, he was lost in thought, in a completely different world where she could not reach him. Faye's eyes wondered back to the music box. It was strange, she had never seen it before. Where had it come from?

As if hearing her thoughts, Vicious answered.

"It was Elise's," His eyes never left the music box. "Blood, there was so much blood."

Faye stepped back, her eyes widening. It was true, Julia was telling the truth. He...

"You killed her...?"

He reached out and shut the lid of the box and the music died away. Vicious looked at her, smiling. Eyes narrowed dangerously, he started towards her and Faye began to shake.

In his hands, he revealed a long blade, which he gripped so tightly by the hilt.

Author's Notes: Hey all! It's good to be writing again. How long has it been? A few months, I know. Trust me, I haven't given up on this story, I'm just extremely busy, more now than ever. But I'm on spring break so I get to come and finish up with this. I hope it was good enough for you, nineteen pages and well over 8,000 words. This is definitely one of the longest chapters I've written for any story. What an accomplishment!

I hate to say it folks, but we have finally reached the end of this ride. It's sad, but Forever Broken is coming to a close. Writing, reading your reviews, and finding the inspiration to continue this story will always be precious to me. Thank you all! But please tell me how you think the story is going to end.

Now, here's want to expect in the next chapter:

Chapter 11-Hegira

Spike and Faye - Is their relationship really over?

Julia - Is she still up to no good? Will she finally get Spike back?

Vicious - Now you all know that he is a murderer. What is he going to do to Faye?

And a few revelations that may surprise some of you!