Outside the Boundaries

He lifted the last bit of framing an inch. Sweat was dripping into his eyes and down his nose and it was driving him nuts. It was damn near sweltering today, not exactly surprising when every other day this week had been identical. Framing was a bitch on his aching limbs ...but this weather just made it worse. Everybody on the construction site was on edge because of the heat. Xander could put up with a little sweat because in five minutes it would be lunchtime and he could finally splash some water on his face and get a long cool drink.

Xander sighed in relief, wiping his grimy t-shirt over his face. The soft fabric was like a sponge soaking up all the sweat. He was thinking he must stink, but at least he could see straight without perspiration in his eyes making him feel itchy and uncomfortable.

Xander sat with the rest of the guys as they bit through there gigantic sandwiches that devoted wives and girlfriends had made for them..Xander picked up his cold 'Whopper' burger he had bought this morning on the way to work. He was part of the gang ..but he wasn't. He had almost forgotten how to talk about the regular day to day things in life. The last six years of his life had been devoted to conversation that revolved around this demon or that prophecy. ...and well these guys were not the type to be tolerant of that type of shit. Sunnydale was a town that rather liked being heavily in denial.

He lost track of the conversation as he gazed out over the street below. Watched as people walked past, most in a hurry obviously rushing off to lunch before going back to air conditioned offices ...he almost envied them. Xander loved his job, pay was decent, he was good at what he did and most importantly the day flew by.

A gorgeous guy walked past ...and Xander did a double take ....Shit...can't be. He was leaning over the edge, trying to get a better look at the man and he fell. Lucky it wasn't far....only thing he hurt really was his pride as his fellow work mates laughed there arses off at his clumsiness. Ignoring them he dusted himself off and quickly moved to the railing surrounding the building site.

The man looked up, quite stunned at first and came over to the fence. His fingers gripped onto the chain link as he beamed up at Xander.

Xander was in shock...to say the least. Angel the vampire was standing beside him in broad daylight, the sun gleaming on his face.

Angel laughed ... it was completely entrancing '' Your going to be the first person I tell this too ''

Xander still looked like he was catching flies....he shook his head and narrowed his eyes in suspicion.

Angel grinned at Xander's expression '' You've been around demons for too long ... its me ..Angel ..... nothing weird is going on, well unless you count the fact that I got my wish ''

Angel stroked the coolness of the metal fence with his fingers '' yes '' he looked at Xander again, he appeared blissfully happy '' I'm human again ''

Xander flinched back at Angels closeness, but the imploring look in Angels eyes drew him back and he tentatively poked his fingers through the fence to touch the mans chest. Xander concentrated...oh my god. He stood back but not before Angel grabbed for his fingers and gave them a squeeze. Warm, they were warm. Now that Xander was really looking at Angel he could see the differences, he had colour, I mean it could be the bright sun on his skin. But he glowed with absolute radiance, in the past that look would have quickly resulted in the appearance of Angelus.

Angel looked almost wistful for a minute, kind of dreamy then he focused on Xander again. '' Uh... this morning. I woke up with a start when I heard a heartbeat in my room. You have no idea the panic I sent myself into when I realized it was me. First I thought I was hallucinating ...then I knew, just knew I was human. With the most extremely painful need to pee ..." he laughed and again it sounded so alien and alluring to Xander's ears. " Now you know I've gone wacky when I got such a high ...a sense of joy from peeing".

" I raced out of the Hyperion into sun, wonderful sunlight fell on my face then I caught my reflection in a window. I haven't seen myself in a very long time... it felt odd, like greeting a stranger. I ran across the street and gorged on an entire box of jelly donuts...the ones dusted in icing sugar...and then I thought of you and Sunnydale . Jumped in my car and here I' am. ''

Angel leaned against the fence again and breathed '' I know... '' he grinned at the shocked expression on Xander's face.

They stared at each other like it was the most natural thing. Then Xander remembered, he hated Angel. What in hell was he doing? Angel frowned seeing Xander's expression change and harden '' What's wrong ? ''

Xander drew back not looking at Angel for a moment. '' Nothing....uh, so your off to find Buffy then ? ''

Angel drew back '' Actually not right at this moment, I was heading for the nearest mall ''

Xander couldn't help but laugh at that, the brooding silent Angel at the mall. Then he realized this wasn't the same man anymore, was he? .

Angel watched Xander carefully. Hundreds of years of homing in on prey, reading there next move, there every thought... it was still something Angel couldn't shake. He read Xander and knew the boy was fighting old hatred for him, it was nice to see that Xander seemed more than willing to try and accept this new Angel...he smiled at that.

Xander grinned back '' A little huh... damn your childe wears more colour than you ''

'' He's not going to take it well is he ? '' it wasn't really a question more a statement of fact .

A horn blasted signalling lunch was over. Xander glanced up at his workmates who were all intently whispering and looking down at the two of them. Damn, they were going to give him hell.

He looked back at Angel, shrugging his shoulders. '' I got to go ... umm I'm happy for you Angel, have fun at the mall '' he said with a smirk .

Xander nodded, a small smile flittered across his face knowing their reaction might not be what Angel hoped for.

'' Come to the 'Magic Box' at eight, we'll be there for the usual Scooby meeting ''

'' Okay '' and he backed away from Xander and continued on down the street. Xander watched him go, the sunlight glinted on his chestnut hair. So beautiful he thought, even in the harsh daylight...how fair was that.

Tonight would be fun. Oh god, and he had been thinking about blowing off the meeting. No-way now, damn he would be there early, with donuts. Xander grinned and went back to work.

Angel stepped into a blast of cool air-conditioning. He kind of missed his body feeling comfortable whatever a California summer weather threw at him. The sun was wonderful, but damn was he sweating. He knew he must look a right mess with attractive wet patches under both his arms, the black silk clung to him mercilessly. This human thing was going to take sometime to get used to again...right now he really needed to discover deodorant.

Wow, this place is huge. Dozens of shoppers stepped around him as he stood transfixed by the sheer size of the mall. So many people pushing past him. He was so tempted to growl when the third person knocked him off balance as they hurtled by, he giggled at that. He was human and growling just wasn't allowed anymore, he did it anyway. All he got in return was a dirty look from some middle aged man who had brushed his shoulder. He giggled, he felt dizzy, life with its little eccentricities was ...well it was an amazing place.

Looking up Angel found himself outside a clothing store, he peered in through the window, laughing again. This was a store that Xander Harris would just adore. He grinned at a salesperson as he entered, perusing the racks of garish Hawaiian shirts.

He had definitely caught the eye of the salesman...uh boy that casually sauntered up to him. He didn't need his vampiric senses to know this young man was attracted to him. He grinned to himself, even without the dark mysterious disguise...he still had it!!

Looking down through dark lashes, he licked his lips and smiled seductively at the boy. He caught the boys glazed over expression as he stammered through the question all retail employees ask without a second thought.

Angel tried to behave himself, but the boys reaction was delicious... he couldn't help but play a little longer. So he stepped closer to the young man and bit his lip in what he hoped was both a shy, yet alluring way.

'' Yes you can help me. I'm looking for an entire wardrobe of new clothes...and I really like what I see here ? " he breathed, peering up at the boy with innocent wide brown eyes. He blinked slowly, then opened his eyes wide to stare at the boy openly.

The boy was caught, he was the helpless bedazzled fly trapped in the web Angel had spun around him. For three hours he cast a spell over the sweet geeky boy. He in turn fetched clothing and whatever else the former vampire desired. Before Angel left he swept the boy into his arms and hustled him into an empty change room to kiss him breathless. '' Thanks, you were very helpful '' he whispered, licking the shell of the boys ear. As he left, Angel looked over his shoulder at the salesman who had slid down the wall when his legs had turned to mush, a puddle on the floor of an empty stall...his frantic breathing competing with the hip hop music playing on the instore stereo.

Angel entered the men's toilet, he really needed to change into some of these clothes he had bought. Hee could smell himself and it wasn't pleasant, but he had something more urgent to attend to, and no it wasn't that he needed to pee. Angel was desperate to relieve a rather big problem that was threatening to burst its way out of his pants. It was the salesman's fault and all those darn palm tree dwelling shirts... they both reminded him of Xander.

At the construction site where he had spoken to Xander, all he could say was he was glad that there had been a fence separating them... because he had wanted to pounce on him. All that golden muscled skin so close, the way he smelled so feral and dirty it had really turned him on. Damn...and he knew Xander hated him. With a heavy sigh he entered an empty cubicle and unzipped his pants, his cock immediately sprung forth. Wrapping a warm hand tightly around it he began to pump out his fantasy of taking Xander, then the face changed to that of Spike and then back again to Xander. With a strangled moan he thrust his hand over his mouth to drown out the sound, he came splashing into the toilet bowl. Afterwards he sat on the toilet lid staring at the scrawled graffiti on the stall door. He was thinking about Spike, his childe that he had basically rejected for the past hundred years.

Angels stomach growled furiously at him, that shook him out of his brooding state. The fact that he was brooding made him get out of the stall. Frowning at his face in the mirror, he grabbed a handful of paper towels...drenching them in cool water and liquid soap he proceeded to wash his body. Minutes later he had a garbage bin full of wet wads of paper and his old vampire attire. A completely different man walked out of that toilet and towards the food court. Damn he was starving.

In the food court Angel was struck dumb, he didn't know what he wanted. All these smells wafted at him from all directions ...it tantalized and confused him. It wasn't long before Angel had a tray precariously balanced in one hand, containing a meal from practically every culture on earth. In the other he had a jumbo coke to wash it all down with. Sitting down in an empty corner, next to a rather garishly painted fountain that had no ill effect on his appetite as he proceeded to eat with gusto.

Angel ate every morsel and he seriously had to force himself not to lick the plate. Several teenage girls had watched with fascination at his binge of such a mind numbing amount of food. They giggled and whispered and he ignored them, too caught up in each new taste sensation to care if he was acting like a slob. A large belch came out of his mouth and he scrambled to his feet, blushing crimson from the disgusted stares and giggles he was getting from the people around him.

He had to leave now anyway, time to see the others. Brave the Scooby's. Was he ready...nope, but he had no choice it was something that had to be done.

Angel walked back to his car, on the way he past the construction site where he had informed Xander of his return to humanity... just this morning. Visions of the boys expression upon seeing him flashed through his mind, the shock on Xander's face, the amazement and wonder. His innocence shone through even though the boy had probably experienced more fear then most people did in a lifetime. Still his eyes gleamed with mischief . Oh he hoped that Xander had kept his word and not said a thing.

He really wanted to catch them off guard, that's what had stopped him from coming to them while the sun was still up. Now it was very dark and it wasn't comforting anymore. Now it held dangers and he knew that if some demon, some vampire attacked him he'd probably be a goner. There was just no way that he was finished living yet. What if he was turned? He couldn't go back to being a vampire, he'd rather take that walk into the sunlight then exist once more as a demon He knew this, as surely as he recognized his growing attraction for Xander. To be honest he had always been partial to the boys wit and unwavering spirit, but now maybe he had a small crack in a window of chance... then again maybe he was just fooling himself.

Yes, his thoughts always returned to that of Alexander Harris...Angel sighed deeply. Then smacked his head with his palm, your such a dolt...you'll never have him.

Meanwhile Xander had arrived early...he was not going to miss this show. Shame he couldn't sell tickets. Maybe popcorn was in order and he strode off to the kitchen in hopes that Giles might just have some stashed somewhere in the back of a cupboard.

The tinkle of the bell as the main door opened spun Xander around to greet the customer. What he saw nearly had him scraping his ass off the tiled floor. Angel was standing there ...dressed very un-Angel like....actually unless he was coming down with a horrible case of some air-constricting disease and it was crushing his brain...he would swear Angel was dressed exactly like him. Those clothes on Angels tall lean body were having a very strange effect on him . His heartbeat was definitely thrumming in his ears at an alarming rate as he gazed over every luscious inch of brightly coloured soft cotton as it clung to Angels body..... Damn him that was just not playing fair. At least he can't sense my lust... but then again he might just read my expression ,you stupid doufas...and Xander almost smacked his own face but restrained himself in mid air... and ended up making himself look like more of an idiot.

Taking a huge gulp of air he looked at Angel in the eye (and nowhere else for gods sake) then glanced away when he noticed the amusement shining there.

Angel grinned...he loved Xander's expression upon seeing him. The virtual avalanche of emotions that had flickered across the boys face was a delight to see. Something akin to lust had shone there briefly while his body got the once over.....

Yes... yes....oh yesssss ...the desired effect he was looking for. A silent prayer of multiple heartfelt 'thank you's' to the heavens for giving him this second chance.

Xander watched Angel spin ... he couldn't help but smile at Angels new persona. It wasn't just the clothes ..it was everything... he seemed so very different .

'' Lets just say Xander you inspire me to spread my wings and try something completely new ...its not just the clothes its how I feel about life now ...my head spins with all the possibilities waiting out there ''

Xander gulped as Angel sauntered a little closer to him. Jumping apart when footsteps could be heard coming in their direction.

Giles walked in from the back of the store. Upon seeing Angel he froze and stiffened slightly '' Angel ...is there some new demon or prophecy that you need our assistance with ? '' it was then that he really looked at Angel and just how similarly dressed he was to Xander... that was setting him on edge just a tad.

That really alarmed Giles...it was bad enough the damn vampire was still alive ..but at least in Los Angeles he didn't have to worry about Angelus surfacing so easily .... but back here in Sunnydale , with his slayer. Hell he had enough to deal with, with Spike ,to be saddled with this ticking time bomb again.

'' Oh... I rather thought demon hunting in Los Angeles alone would be enough to keep you busy ''

Angel watched Giles .... the man definitely didn't want him here. Couldn't really blame him he had lost his girlfriend to Angelus and had been tortured horrifically .... he would get no forgiveness from Giles ,ever . Perhaps coming to Sunnydale had been a mistake .... he just wanted to stay awhile not long , couple of months .....then he was off to see the world . Angel knew all too well how short life really was , he wanted to savour everything this world had to offer him.

Giles was still staring at him... he realized he had been asked a question . He was saved by Buffy , Willow and Tara walking in to the store, they were all talking excitedly over the top of each other. Buffy caught sight of Angel ... double taked because of the clothes he was wearing. She frowned up at him as everyone fell silent.

Angel grinned at her , she was always so concerned about him ...even after everything , it amazed him.

'' I'm fine Buffy ...actually I'm feeling rather terrific '' and he absentmindedly started to pick up varies articles around the shop and inspecting them... stone pyramids , fertility dolls and such....twirling them in his fingers, feeling the weight and the texture of each new object . Everyone was staring at him expecting an evil cackle to fall from his lips as he began slaughtering people. Buffy was freaked the most ... he was too happy and that could never be for the best. Xander stood back and tried so hard not to laugh at all the looks on their faces ...this was priceless and Angel was playing with them...he was drawing the moment out... that was just too cunning , very worthy of the former vampire...extremely mean. Xander smiled...seemed Deadboy had a sense of humour after all.

Then there was a deafening crack as the glass in the front door imploded ....a body was hurtled through to sail across the tiled floor , tiny fragments of splintered glass rained down on all of them. Dusting himself off and trying to give the impression that nothing out of the ordinary had just happened was the calm and ever graceful vampire, Spike.

Spikes entrance was enough to shake everyone out of there attention on Angel... if only for a couple of seconds. Xander couldn't hold it in anymore and broke down in hysterical laughter. Priceless... he would remember this day forever.

Angel said nothing as he turned over another object in his hand. Angel noticed every ones eyes follow the movement of his hands and frowned .... they all looked up at him in shock .

Angel had in his hands a rather decorative and ancient looking crucifix ... the cross was carved from marble and very beautiful. Angel stared open mouthed at the cross laying across his palm. Old fears welled up in the pit of his stomach...just to be close to a holy object. There was no burning ..no pain. Then he laughed...he had forgotten his new status...how ridiculous ...he caressed the cool grey stone between his fingers and marvelled at its loveliness . Glancing up to see the eyes of Xander smiling at him in acceptance.

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For Angel everyone else seemed to fade away in the room.... only Xander remained . They stared at each other across the length of the store and Angel ... felt lost as a gnawing yearning for this boy sank into his bones , he let the cross slip from his fingers onto the floor. The impact of marble with the hard tile wormed its way into their consciousness. Both men blinked at each other...stunned , the sounds of raised voices permeated through their contemplation of each other. Angel with a monumental effort on his behalf dragged his eyes from Xander's face and down into the irate expression of one vampire slayer.

Angel had thought she meant ...between himself and Xander, but then he realized she had noticed nothing ... she was looking at the cross then back up at him . Glancing around it seemed all eyes were on the cross. He was almost thankful for them not seeing anything...if there was indeed anything to see. Then he caught the eye of his Childe and he knew Spike had caught the look between the two . The emotion on Spikes face was that of deep scorn and loathing ....that was nothing new , Spike had hated him for a long time and the reasons were long and complicated.... but there was something else in his eyes, it was fleeting but he could swore he read ..jealousy , before it was swallowed up with contempt for his sire again. He would have to talk to Spike later.

There was silence ...................... a very long silence . Angel felt its weight on his skin... it was like the air was sucked out of the room and it was crushing him. Xander sensing his discomfort came forward and thrust his hand out for Angel to shake. Angel smiled his gratitude and took the proffered hand in his , shaking it firmly.

'' Congratulations Angel ..your one of us now , so this means I can kick your butt when I feel the need ?''

Angel grinned more than happy for Xander's excellently timed wit in this tense moment. He really didn't want to let go of that warm hand in his , he could feel the calluses as he rubbed his thumb lightly over Xander's knuckles....not daring to look into the boys face , not wanting to break this small moment . Then his arm was torn from Xander's grip as one pissed off Spike barged his way in-between the two men. His eyes flashed yellow inches from Angels face as he shoved his sire across the room and up against the nearest wall.

'' Well isn't this grand ... your human again and it couldn't have happened to more deserving bastard than you ...Dear Angelus '' he spat at him .

Spike flinched when he felt Angels heart beating under his hand . Angels laboured breathing across his cheek .... the heat radiating from the man ...it was all too damn much to take. Spike quickly backed away from Angel and bumped into the opposite wall , he slid down the wall till his bottom thumped onto the floor , drawing his knees to his chest he stared up at Angel from that position.

Xander gazed at Spike who seemed to be mesmerized by Angels presence. He instantly felt pity for Spike. For a vampire Spike had been through it all . Losing his ability to fend for himself, feed him self ..having to resort to helping the enemy just so that he could survive....and now losing Angel his sire for the second time in his unlife ....he must be devastated. Maybe Spike had been alone but somehow Xander knew he always had Angel in some capacity. Now Angel was human where did that leave a Sireless vampire....would the human Angel reject him.

As if Angel had heard him ...he watched as the former vampire slowly crept across the room . Spikes eyes wide with fear as Angel gathered him up into his arms. Angel hugged Spike close and was about to reassure his childe that he was still here for him when Spike hurled Angel away from him angrily....growling furiously , with a twirl of leather he stalked out of the Magic Box.

Buffy laughed '' Come on Spike and thinking don't really...... '' and she shut up quick when she received equal hard glares from both Giles and Angel.

Giles let his grip on Angel go ... Angel stared at Giles and nodded his agreement in leaving Spike alone for the moment. His eyes flickered to Xander and he registered the sympathy there . Turning back to Giles he smiled slightly at the watcher .

Giles blinked at the mess on his floor '' Don't worry about it , it was priceless but well nothing can be done for it now '' Giles honestly didn't care .... he was just so relieved he never had to worry about Angelus ever resurfacing....and as Xander had mentioned he could now kick Angels butt .... the playing field was now even.... But was he really going to lower himself to some kind of revenge? He didn't know...but the temptation was there even still.

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'' Sorry .... but I can't see a thing , think we could use a torch or something ''

'' Oh ..... awwww shit '' and there was thump as Angel disappeared from view . Xander took a step closer to where he had last seen the man.

Xander peered over the edge of the hole ...he could just make out Angels form in the darkness .... he laughed hysterically, falling to his knees on the edge of the open grave and clutching at the loose dirt around the hole.

'' Awww Angel ...you've turned into a klutz , no graceful stalking for you no more ''

Angel grinned up at Xander. Only yesterday he would have been able to see Xander clearly but now he couldn't even make out the expression on the boys face at all.

Xander giggled and thrust his hand out for Angel to take hold of . '' Here Deadboy ..let me help you out of there ''

Angel grabbed onto Xander's hand and yanked him into the hole '' Hey.... no calling me Deadboy anymore... '' as he dragged Xander close to him and placed both of the boys hands against his firm chest

'' Feel it? ... I have a heart beat and I've got body heat .... no longer Deadboy okay ?'' . He could see Xander's face clearly from this distance , the audible gulp from Xander sent his Adams apple bobbing alluringly in his throat. Xander's breath hitched wafting across his face in tantalizing waves of warmth . A soft moan wrenched its way out of Angels soul as he clung to Xander a little tighter. The smell of damp earth surrounded them .... it called to Angel to act ....to touch...to do something NOW .... his senses were screaming at him .

Xander and Angel stared at each other for a second ..then they both screamed out

Seconds later a white haired head ...gleaming in the moonlight appeared over the edge of the hole.

Spike reached a hand into the hole and easily hoisted Xander out . Xander turned to Spike and grinned

Xander sighed and leaned down to drag Angel out of the hole ... the man was heavy and his hand kept slipping in his grasp . A growl from behind him as Spike pushed past him .

Xander rolled out of Spikes way and watched as he roughly hurled Angel up and onto the mount of loose dirt that had presumably been what had filled the hole.

'' Owww ... could you be just a little more gentle, I'm more easily broken these days ''

'' I don't fucking think so arsehole ... your lucky I just didn't leave you there as a snack for some minion '' he clutched his head in agony ....damn he couldn't even touch his own sire, now that he was a human .

Spike glared daggers at his sire as the headache subsided '' You bet Angelus '' . He turned and stalked away from the two humans ...his duster billowing behind him. Angel and Xander quickly followed him through the graveyard.

Angel glanced at the door and back at Xander , frowning '' I don't know ....he really doesn't want me here '' he sighed heavily ,looking at the thick stone door in front of him .

Xander watched the emotions shimmer across Angels face '' You have to face him some time ...you guys need to talk ''

Suddenly the stone door was yanked inwards and one pale hand shot out and snatched Angel by his shirt and pulled him inside the crypt . Xander peeped his head around the corner to see Angel flat on his back with Spike straddling his body and bouncing up and down on Angels stomach .

Angel glanced at Xander's amused expression '' Damn it Harris ..get this...oww.!!!... oaf off me.... ouch.!!!... for a skinny runt....damn that hurts Spike!!!! you sure are heavy.... oww!!!! Help me Xander !!!! ''

Xander took a step towards Spike and the vampire spun his head in Xander's direction as he morphed into Gameface. Golden eyes pierced into the boy as he roared at Xander to stay back . '' Back off whelp this doesn't concern you ''

'' Thanks ....for reminding me. I figure a little pain on my side is worth it to damage this pretty face of his ''

Xander lunged forward and threw Spike off Angel '' Two hundred years old and you still act like your fucking preschoolers ''

Spike snarled at him as he sprang to his feet , wiping the dust from his jeans. He snorted disgustedly as he watched Xander help Angel to his feet and gently pat out the wrinkles in Angels rumpled clothing. Storming over to the fridge he threw the door open , bypassing the blood packets entirely he went straight for the beer in the back. Arranging himself in a comfortable position on the floor he proceeded to twist the cap off and flick it at Angels retreating back .

Angel whirled around after the second sharp metal cap clocked him on the back of his head. Spike laughed nastily at Angels face . Angel was fuming , Xander swore he could see the steam rising from the mans flared nostrils. Spike knew he was an idiot to bait Angel like this. He was human and could kill him and he wouldn't be able to defend himself ...but he didn't give a fuck ....just let him try.

Spike never took his eyes off Angel as he took a long swig from the bottle ... the taste , the buzz that went straight to his head it was wonderful but it didn't drown out his hatred.

'' I'd love the chance to destroy your life , a payback for the way you destroyed mine. ''

And here we go ...Angel knew it was coming , the old guilt trip- attack ....Angel knew it well , how many times had Spike cursed him for his existence ....the last time ...well it was awhile ago , he would let his childe rage at him he obviously felt the need to . Sitting cross legged beside Spike he waited for the next insult.

Spike wouldn't give Angel the satisfaction ...he motioned for Xander to sit , passing him a beer . Xander took it gratefully and watched as Angel waited for Spike to say something vicious ...and...while Spike just ignored Angel. Xander rolled his eyes and sighed, it was going to be a long night.

'' Spike ...I thought killing the innocent and spilling their blood was what you lived for ... the power rush from being a vampire ''

Spike watched as Angel nabbed one of his beers and he curled up his lip and sneered at his audacity ..but let it slide.

'' Oh I do ..pet ... like the vampire life ..but its not all its cracked up to be , living forever is a pain in the ass , watching people you care for die ...time that's eternal and it can all get a little boring but mostly its so very lonely ''

Xander could see this getting depressing fast... '' more alcohol.... lets get plastered ''

Spike scoffed '' Okay lets celebrate the on coming death of my former Sire .... may his rotting carcass make fabulous manure ''

'' What whelp .... you have no idea the shit I've been through for this man ... No way will I ever celebrate anything good happening to him ''

Xander looked warily at the two men gazing daggers at each other. '' If you didn't have the chip...what would you do right now ? , would you make him your childe ? ''

Spike smiled coldly at Angel '' That would be brilliant .... to treat him like nothing ... the scum under my feet , to abuse and ignore ''

'' Oh yes you did ... you took pleasure in it mate , you were a right bastard ''

Angel hung his head ...he nodded sadly '' I was a right bastard '' he stared up into Spikes eyes full of contempt '' but I always knew you were there ...even if I never showed it .... I loved you ... I still do ''

Spike frowned ...then in a split second -rage seeped into his thoughts he was in Gameface threatening to scratch Angels eyes out '' Don't you ever say that to me '' he tore at Angels shirt with his painted black sharp fingernails '' don't you ever say that after you left me ''

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Spike struggled with his duster, getting caught in the voluminous material as he directed his anger at it. Forcing it off his body he hurtled it into a corner ...stamping and screaming his frustration into the crypt . The sounds bounced off the concrete walls and reverberated ...he sounded like an animal in pain .

The vampire started to pace ...changing directions and mumbling insults under his breath... his eyes sprung from golden and back to deep blue, he glared at Angel ... stalking towards him then ..screaming again and turning his back and storming in another direction... he kicked the central sarcophagus...several times , beating it with his hands till they bled.

Xander and Angel watched in horror at his ranting ...he was losing it . Angel finally snatched the vampire from his war path and hugged him tightly . Spike struggled but it was only half heartedly ...he eventually sank into Angels embrace wrapping his own arms around the man who was once the feared vampire Angelus. Whispered apologies and words of endearment fell from Angels lips as he buried his face in snow white hair. Warm kisses rained down upon Spikes forehead and he snuggled into the warmth he so craved.

They finally stood back from each other . Pain, remorse, anger ... and a dozen other emotions were still there ... but it was baby steps forward ... baby steps ....

Xander quietly got up off the floor and started sifting through Spikes cupboards ... with a smile to himself ...he plucked out a box with three bottles of JD inside.... Exactly what was needed at this very moment.

Xander's hands were all sweaty and the cap kept twisting around to no effect . Placing it in his mouth he tried to get a better grip with his teeth .....owww not a good idea.

Xander sauntered over to the two men , walking between them he gave the bottle to Spike . He watched as Spike went into Gameface and placed his fangs over the cap ..a quick wrench and he spat the cap out . Xander laughed

'' Have you ever got a fang stuck in a cork from a wine bottle by any chance ? ''

Spike looked amused then contemplative ,glazed look up at the ceiling '' Nah .... never happened '' he grinned.

Xander chuckled and reached for the bottle ....Spike let him get close then snatched it away just before the boy had his fist around it ....he snickered and took a step backwards ..hoping Xander would try again and continue their game. Xander grinned and took a step forward ...again Spike grasped the bottle just out of his reach .... the game continued till Spike had no where else to go , he was backed up against the wall ...

Xander slid up close to Spike ..just a whisper between them and gave him a sultry stare under a flutter of long dark lashes . Easing the bottle out from between Spikes fingers he purposely grazed hot wet fingers along Spikes cool palm . Xander licked his bottom lip as he peered up innocently at Spike ... throwing back his head and arching his back till he barely touched Spikes hips with his own ... he brought the bottle to his lips and let the amber liquid fire slide down his throat ...small droplets escaped his mouth and ran down his neck to disappear under his shirt. Spike watched their path with a burning gaze . Oh god he was hard just to see this boy play out such a blatant seduction .

Xander blushed stepping away from Spike and with eyes anywhere but at the two men he handed the bottle to Angel . He couldn't believe he just tried entice a master vampire ...a male one .

'' Yeah I could see that ... you have nothing to be nervous about ... I'm sure he wants you too .... ''

Xander peered up at him with frightened big brown eyes '' Its not that... its just a little too weird , I don't do things like that ... flirt or even have feelings for other men , let alone the evil undead ''

Xander looked shocked but he could see Angel was serious , he wasn't mocking in anyway . Xander nodded '' Its true I was attracted to you and very jealous of your relationship with Buffy ''

Angel beamed .. he knew it , he hadn't been sure but now Xander had confirmed his suspicions.

Xander didn't know what to say to that . Did he really want to go there . Then there was Spike . He turned to look at the vampire who was glaring at Angel .... was he jealous ? probably not...just annoyed because Angel was getting all the attention again.

Spike stepped between them '' Leave him alone ..stop being a bully '' Xander stepped back a safe distance.

Spike turned to Angel and they grinned at each other '' Yes pet we were ... its what we do , vampires . We fuck and feed and not necessarily in that order ... but its been a long time since we were that intimate '' Both men seemed saddened by that and Xander didn't miss their expressions.

'' I don't think so pet... its going to be a long time before I could ever let him touch me like that again ''

Xander frowned then perked up '' and Buffy doesn't know about your past relationship ''

'' No '' they both gasped '' and she never will '' added Angel looking pointedly at Spike.

'' Don't worry I'd never spill that kind of information to the bint... besides none of her friggin business anyway ''

.................................................................................

Angel sitting on the floor cross legged ...a series of bottles lined up in front of him ....he's slightly weaving from side to side ..he leans forward and blows across the first bottle .....then he gets into it as he rocks from side to side blowing across different bottles ..a tune is forming and it really is quite good .... but then he weaves just a little too much to the right and keels over , his cheek hits the hard cold floor and he groans out in pain. At least the worlds not spinning anymore and he rests his eyes a moment .

Over in the opposite corner sit Spike and Xander ... they had been sharing Scooby adventures and generally laughing at Buffy's new boyfriend and her antics to cover up the fact that she slays demons for a living. They had stopped to admire Angels musical prowess . Watched as Angel passed out ... they clapped riotously but Angel was totally out of it.

'' Maybe I should check on him ...make sure he's okay and not dead of alcohol poisoning ''

Spike concentrated for a second ... going into Gameface to enhance his senses '' He's fine ...sleeping it off ..he's actually cute when he's not opening his mouth and talking shit ''

He turned to Xander still in Gameface . Xander leaned forward '' Ummm would you mind ?'' and Xander indicated that he wanted to touch Spike with his demon visage in place.

Spike gulped and breathed '' No.... of course not , whatever you want pet '' and he leaned into the touch as Xander lightly grazed the ridges on his forehead. Xander placed more pressure on Spikes cool skin as he skimmed his fingers across the hooded eyebrow ridge ...marvelling how the ridges seemed to quiver under his caress . How soft his skin felt under his manipulations ...he wondered if it was just as soft under his mouth ... he leaned closer till he almost fell in Spikes lap... looking up into yellow eyes , he slipped into their depths ...his eyes were a swirling mass of emotions . Spike blinked and Xander followed the movement with his head .... he wanted more touching ... He really wanted to Kiss Spike right now...the need was consuming.

A growling in his ear and he could see Spikes eyes were no longer focused on him but on someone behind him.

Xander backed away from Spike . The vampire stood and he circled Angel threateningly '' You left Sunnydale so now he belongs to me .... besides Xander touched me , twice ...so he doesn't want you...he wants me ''

'' He's just fascinated with the beast that you are ..... I'm human now , he has no future with you ''

Angel called for Xander .... as he pivoted in a circle . Xander was no where to be found . Xander had up and left them to it .

'' I scared him off .... you Irish prick , he was doing just fine until you had to stick your nose in ''

There was a scream of gut wrenching agony from outside in the cemetery . Angel stared wide eyed at Spike they both choked out

Scrambling they ran for the entrance to the crypt .... both moved as one , the vampire and his human Sire.

....................................................................................................................................................

Spike was out of the crypt first, at the sight before him he stopped dead in his tracks. Angel careened into his backside as he rounded the corner.

'' Spike...what the hell....? '' then he noticed what had sent Spike into a standstill. In the centre of the cemetery was a large greenish yellow splotchy demon on its hind legs. Xander was dangling high in the air being held there by clawed front legs while it slobbered and licked at the struggling boy.

Angel and Spike looked at each other then back at Xander. They simultaneously burst out in laughter. Clutching at their sides they inched closer to the demon, weaving just a little from the alcohol...Angel could see a couple of Xander's but that was okay...because he was perfectly capable of fighting if it came down to that. Xander turned a slimy face glistened with saliva that clung to his skin in globules. Angel collapsed into a fresh round of giggles at the expression on Xander's face. Spike felt very much like following his Sires lead...but refrained from doing that when he sensed Xander's fear.

'' Well.. I'm glad you two are so amused...now could you possibly ...like ...help? '' his hurt expression making Angel feel immediately guilty ...his round of giggles had generated an appalling case of the hiccups....and he was finding it ridiculously difficult to answer Xander in the state he was in.

'' Pet ... that's a Haegangrath , there harmless luv , they may look all big and tough but they are pussy cats at heart '' Spike wanted to reassure Xander more than anything at that moment. That and have this thing take a shine to Angel instead so he could have the boy all to himself again.

Xander looked down at Spike , doubt was plastered on his face '' Yeah well ..this pussy cat just broke my arm '' and just for emphasis the ugly demon lifted Xander higher off the ground swiping a limb against Xander's injured one . Xander screamed in agony . '' Do something '' he pleaded trying to twist out of the demons overly affectionate grasp.

Angel charged forward ...about to kick the demon when he remembered that he was human and quickly backed off to hide behind Spike . Spike removed Angels hands that were desperately clawing his leather clad arms . Angel pushed him forward ...Spike stumbled before righting himself and spinning around to glare at his Sire.

'' You have turned into a Wuss .... never thought I'd see the day , your rep is truly over Angelus '' he snorted disgustingly.

Angel shrugged and had the good sense to look sheepish '' I'm human and fragile and you can take a bashing ''

'' Is that your excuse mate ...that your human , Bastard ....he <and indicates Xander> has more bravery in his pinkie finger then you ever had .... your pathetic .... No...your nothing '' Spikes seething as he turns his back on Angel and strides confidently towards the Haegangrath .

Angel looks suitably crushed at Spikes comments, squaring his shoulders he too went determinedly after the demon. Spike was right his vampire self had been a force to be reckoned with ...and essentially he was the same as he was yesterday, wasn't he?...without the vamp super powers that is. Angel knew in his heart he was still strong mentally ...no demon was going to best him ...he was a little more breakable...so he had to be a little more careful with this body ...but he knew this demon and they weren't that difficult to beat , weren't they ? it had been awhile since he had seen one.

The Haegangrath was not at all impressed with the poke to its toes that Spike achieved with a broken metal pole from some neglected grave. No...not happy at all as he attempted to stomp on the vampire. Spikes vampiric speed saved his scrawny ass from being flattened . The demon might not have been fast ...but the sheer width of its feet made up for it , plus the ground shuddered with every smack of its flat feet on the uneven ground. Spike kept his balance but Angel didn't ,toppling over his childe . Spike grabbed Angel just in time ...before a large toe nearly squashed his head.

'' Damn it ...Angel '' and swung his sire out of the way again...as the demon leaned over and tried to butt its head at the two men. Spike roared at the Haegangrath and the demon in turn flashed headlight eyes at Spike. Spike was instantly blinded and he stumbled backwards falling over Angel and whacking his head on the corner of a tombstone. Angel launched himself onto the beasts hairy leg . The demon in turn frantically shaking his limb to detach the pesky human mosquito clutching at him. Angel held tightly and bit deeply into the soft skin of the Haegangrath . There was an eerie howl and Xander went flying as the demon let go of him to swipe its front paws at Angel . Spike was shaking his head trying to clear his muddled vision when a screaming human came sailing towards him . Xander managed to land without too much injury when he collided with the relatively soft body of Spike. Spike cracked his head on the back of the tombstone .. ..again with the velocity of the Xander cannon ball.

'' Sorry about that ..couldn't be helped '' Xander grinned apologetically. There was a stirring of the air and a faint whistle as second body came sailing towards them both. Xander ducked just in time but Spike wasn't so lucky as his head met the concrete once more ... with the weight of Angel pressed into him. Angel quickly scrambled off Spike and stood up next to Xander.

'' ummm sorry Spike ....nasty awful demon threw me at you '' Angel managed to look innocent but Spike wasn't convinced as he lay there glaring up at him. Xander stepped forward to help when Spike still wasn't moving .

'' Oh I'm fan-fucking-tastic .......so I'm thinking I'll just lie down here, rest up .... just in case something else comes flying in my direction '' he scolded.

Angel was looking just a tad disturbed as his eyes darted from the demon to Spike and back again '' Ummmm I think you should get up now....'' and then there was blood curdling shriek as the ground shook with the wraith of one pissed off hell demon. Spike sprang to his feet as he joined the frozen glances of Angel and Xander as they watched the Haegangrath stomp menacingly towards them .

.....................................................................................................................................................

Seems the Haegangrath had lost interest in pursuing Xander ...because they weren't followed for long through the cemetery . Spike, Angel and Xander walked in virtual silence to the closest hospital .... Why was there very little said ?
Angel was still wounded by Spikes cruel words ,...and nastiness from Spike were commonplace in his past ...So why now did he feel hurt by his Childe's callous ways.... he was confused and needed to think. Spike was miffed that he had once again ended up the joke...the fall guy (literally) ..cursing the effing chip and the soldier boys who emasculated him. Xander was quiet because his arm ached and because he just didn't know what to do with all the attention he was suddenly receiving. Then there was Anya ....a women he loved ..who loved him back and was now probably tucked up asleep in her bed unaware of what was happening. He loved Anya yet he had flirted with not one but two men in the past twenty-four hours ...What was that about ? .

At the hospital Spike and Angel sat ,waiting for Xander as a doctor examined his arm . Angel picked up a year old copy of 'Cosmopolitan' flicking through the index , he absentmindedly wet his fingers with his tongue to turn the pages to an article that looked promising. Spike swallowed a moan as he watched Angels fingers disappear into his mouth and then there was soft sucking sound before glistening digits escaped his lips to glide there stickiness across glossy paper. Spike glanced away when he felt Angel was about to look up at him ... he really didn't need to be caught by his Sire right at this moment.

Angel did indeed look up from the article '' How to Find your Mans G-spot '' ...he almost laughed at the absurdity of it . Angel stared at his childe ...his William ... Spike!! ... memories flooded back as he followed the length of Spikes long pale neck with his eyes. Nights wrapped in each other ...moans penetrating the stillness... biting , scratching and kissing away the loneliness that had been their existence . Swallowing down the pain he focused his attention on the article ....licking a finger he turned the page. That chapter of his life had to remain closed .

Xander entered the waiting room sporting a bright red cast on his left arm .Neither of the two men had seen him enter the crowded room . Xander watched Spike make faces at a small child across the room ...seems they were each trying to best each other with their gross me out expressions. Xander was beginning to like Spike ...to be fair he had been feeling like that for sometime but just didn't want to admit it to himself. At this moment watching the little boy crack up at Spike touching his nose with his tongue and rolling his eyes around madly ...Xander laughed he couldn't remember why he was supposed to hate the vampire. It was okay to like him ...even if they had seriously tried to kill each other many a time ...but the stirrings of other feelings , emotions based in lust ...where did they come from ?.

Switching his gaze from Spike to Angel who was intently reading some magazine . Angel perhaps was where his hunger for Spike originated. As soon as he met Angel he knew he had fallen in love . But he had been young , now years had past and his desire for the vampire had waned ...but his need for the unattainable... the dangerous ...the deadly predator that the man represented still burned brightly. Spike came along and at first he wasn't tempted ... at first he felt nothing but contempt for the man , then Spike got wired by The Initiative and Xander began to see more of the vampire .... till before he knew it had even happened he had grown attached to his dark biting wit that matched Xander's own .... his smile ... his voice ... him.

Now Angel was back .... but now he wasn't the mysterious brooding hunk .... now he was human and fallible ...and still Xander's interest in the man had been piqued once more. Why can't my love life be simple ?... you know ,cut and dry ...fold on the dotted line ...and hey presto ...perfect match.
No ...that was never to be .... he had to be cursed with the dilemma of being attracted to two ex demons and a tainted but caged one.

Spike received a glare from an irate mother as the little boy was dragged from the room. Spike winked at the kid as he disappeared around the corner ...the boys innocent giggles could still be heard in the distance as he was hauled down the corridor and out of the hospital. Spike smirked ...trying to remember if he had been such a holy terror to his own mother. He caught sight of Xander just standing there ...he grinned at his fetching red cast but then his smile vanished when he noticed the wistful expression on the boys face as he gazed adoringly at Angel . Who of course was oblivious to Xander's blatant show of affection. Bastard doesn't deserve him.

Xander looked up at that moment and caught Spikes eye ...in that instant he saw Spikes face fall as sadness crept into those gorgeous blue depths. He knew Spike had come to all the wrong conclusions as he got up briskly and refused to look at Xander again. He needed to tell the vampire that he was mistaken ..that he had read his expression towards Angel out of context... but how to start that conversation ? How?

At that moment Angel looked up and saw Xander. Angel threw the mag into a precarious pile of other similar tattered magazines sending them all to the floor ..Angel shrugged his indifference .... Once one anal retentive brunette vampire would have picked them up and probably arranged them in date and title, but no more.

'' Like your cast ''

Xander smiled at Angel while still looking at Spike now and again. The vampire was looking everywhere but ....they needed to talk soon. '' yeah ...your colour right ...Oops I mean it was ''

'' A bit bright ...but I get what you mean ''

Spike snorted and swept out of the room .....
....................................................................................................................................................

Outside the hospital Xander caught up with Spike , he matched his pace and walked beside him .

Xander didn't know what to say ...Spike wasn't looking at him , actually he seemed quite angry.

Spike stopped and glared at him '' Uh ??? What are you going on about ? '' No way would he let Xander know he knew exactly what he was talking about...foreign ignorance , that was the way to go.

Xander examined the concrete at his feet '' Nothing... doesn't matter '' he whispered. Turning away from the vampire he waited for Angel to catch up to them . '' Angel ..where are you sleeping tonight ? ''

Angel seemed totally thrown by the question '' I really hadn't thought about it ... being human and getting here was all that had been on my mind <he laughed in amazement> I'm usually so fastidious about those types of things < he grinned> but now I'm not , feel like such an alien . <gazing about him at Sunnydale> There's always the mansion or my old apartment but .... ''

Angel smiled down at Xander ... somehow he knew that this boy would understand him '' Yeah.... I was about to say the same thing ... its just so part of who I was before ...I've changed ''

Spike snorted and Angel turned angrily towards him . '' What is your goddamn problem now Spike...are you jealous? ''

'' Jealous ? .... of what ? That your a piss-ant human now ...not bloody likely mate . I have no problems being a vampire ...except this chip...can do without the mind numbing pain that arouses. Then again your here in my town and that's a mind numbing ordeal in itself. ''

Angel slapped Spike sharply across the cheek '' What the hell crawled up your ass tonight ?''

Xander tried to diffuse the situation by grabbing Angels hand to turn the man toward him again '' Come stay at my place tonight .... got a spare room ...okay ? ''

'' I'm going home ..night kiddies '' he spat and turned to leave... he didn't want either of them to see the hurt on his face ...he ached with the knowledge that Xander would choose Angel to stay with him ...and not himself . He had been friendly with the whelp ...perhaps in an insulting , mildly threatening manner but still friendly ...he had helped the Scooby's but was he ever invited over to Xander's apartment... No...never even entered the bloody boys head... Never.

Xander rushed over to him and took hold of his arm tightly, Spike flinched slightly at the force of that hand on his skin .

'' Oh no you don't , you are invited to stay too ... the both of you can fight over the couch or the spare room when we get there '' .

With that he dragged Spike back to where Angel was standing looking slightly disappointed that his childe had also been asked over to Xander's.

........................................................................................

Xander couldn't have been happier ....okay so he almost became some demons snuggle bunny and now he had a cast on one arm as a result of that interlude ... but .... he was happy... who the hell wouldn't be ..he had two very nice looking men staying the night (okay it was closer to day ..so!!!) and they would be in very close proximity to him.

Xander stared at the front door in shock ...... he wanted this didn't he? ....What would Anya think of this ? He imagined her in her bed , her head half under a large fluffy quilt , curls spread over her favourite pink pillow ...relaxed , dreaming ..content that her boy friend wasn't sleeping around on her .

Xander whirled around to face Spike who was frowning at him . He cleared his head and turned away, busying himself with unlocking his door.

Truthfully Xander knew Anya wouldn't be that offended or upset if he did sleep with any man .....only thing I think she would be annoyed at would be if it happened when she wasn't there to see it . How many times had she spoken to him about Spike... how he probably had lots of experience in fucking men . I had to plead with her not to ask him to teach me how to beg for it . Every time they were in a room together I turned into an idiot trying to distract her away from him .....distract her away from any mortifying torrent of laughter that would fall from his lips at her words.

In the crypt though... there had been heat and it wasn't just from the alcohol. There had been lust ... definite longing in those azure eyes. No laughter ...nope none.

Grinning to himself he finally managed to open the door ....it burst open thumping against the wall. Striding forward he swept across the room flicking on a small lamp by the couch as he made his way to the stereo .... he was going to need music for this . Memories flashed through his head of his one and only time at stripping ...years ago when his car broke down and he needed a job...and a dancer was sick ....anyway.... if he was going to do this he needed music .... sexy , loud music ... probably piss off the neighbours but what the hell.

Angel smirked at Spike as he passed through the door and into the apartment .... he almost felt like slamming the door shut, but that would be pushing it. Xander was looking through his CD collection ..the music was all so up beat...and he was looking for raw ...pulsing with a hint of nastiness , violence ...damn where was it ?. The last CD right at the back of the draw.... yes... so very perfect. Nine Inch Nails...its the album he was dancing to that night ...it was a parting gift from the dancer he had replaced that night , hadn't been played much ...this was the ideal occasion .

Angel stood in the middle of the room facing the door ...his eyes moving from Xander who was placing a CD in the player ...to his childe, a smile of satisfaction on his lips at Spikes hurt expression . Angel was wondering how long it would be before Xander realized he hadn't invited Spike in yet . He would just stand here and wait ...this was all so amusing.

The air was replaced with the thumping beat of ''Sin'' . Grinning Xander turned swinging his hips to the music ... closing his eyes ..letting the words wash over his body .....a shiver of deep need tingled down to his toes ..music was making him supremely horny... opening his eyes again he connected with Spike under a flutter of dark lashes, hoping to hell he looked provocative .Spike was standing uncomfortably at the other side of the front door . He gasped ... he had been so wrapped up in the possible seduction that he had forgotten the most important thing. Like letting the object of his lust in the door . He almost smacked himself in the head for being such an idiot .... nice start to the night... you have some serious making up to do .

Xander sauntered over to Spike ...passing Angel without even looking at him. Angel had to control himself not to stamp his feet at being ignored. Xander felt empowered by the music and its driving beat sending all the right messages to his brain...boosting his confidence.

Sliding up to the door frame Xander peered under a mass of unruly locks at Spike...he was hoping for an innocent but suggestive look. Spike gulped , glancing at the ground nervously as Xander's fingers came through the invisible barrier and landed on Spikes chest. Bunching up the black t-shirt in one fist he dragged Spike up against the magic shield . Eye to eye he breathed tantalizing waves of heady promises across Spikes lips as he whispered

'' Please do come in Spike ...'' and with one strong yank hauled Spike across the barrier and colliding into a shocked Angel . They both landed in an indignant heap on the carpet. Xander stood over them chuckling at the expressions on their faces before turning abruptly and bouncing towards the kitchen.

'' Going to make some popcorn ....need sustenance. Anyone else hungry ?'' Xander called over his shoulder as he entered the kitchen .

Angel and Spike were still sprawled all over the floor ...both looked at each other as they answered '' oh god yes....'' and laughed that they were both thinking the same thing about Xander.

Xander dived into the cupboard 'popcorn popcorn where the hell are you hiding?' ...he was trying hard not to think about the fact that he had once again teased a master vampire that could chew on him if he felt like it . Then again the thought of being devoured by Spike was not an unpleasant thought.

'' ahhh huh...!!! Found it '' triumphantly he held up the pre-packaged whack me in the microwave ..five minutes and I'm yours-tasty and delicious hot buttered popcorn ready to eat ....suck...bite...chew... he giggled twirling over to the microwave giddily....after effects of adrenalin were zinging in his blood ...music still pumping out there in the lounge room ..he could feel the vibration in the floor under his feet. Reaching down to toe off his shoes just as Spike and Angel came through the door. Both men froze in their tracks as a nicely packaged wiggling ass taunted them unwittingly from across the room. They both watched as Xander pulled off his socks and tossed them into a corner.

Xander stretched his one good arm toward the ceiling and flexed his toes on the linoleum flooring ...the coolness was a balm to his hot skin ...he almost wanted to strip down to nothing and wriggle against the floor ...but that might be a bit too much even for his current perverted thoughts. Closing his eyes and dancing in slow sensuous circles he placed the popcorn into the microwave and shut the door carefully . He thrust his hips into the side of the cabinet where the microwave stood...the friction was amazing ..as he sighed deeply and gripped onto the top of the microwave for support ..he thrust his hips again adding a circular motion as his jean covered crotch hit the rounded corner of the wooden top . A floorboard creaked and Xander whirled around to see two men practicably drooling at him . their eyes glazed over in hunger for him.

Xander blushed , his whole body went a deep crimson as he had been caught making time with the kitchen cupboard , he groaned inwardly at that mortifying thought. Xander started to babble to cover up the situation as he busied his fingers with pressing all the required buttons to make the popcorn start popping.

'' So umm that was quite a night ...with the demon and all ...and so your hungry ... I have sodas ..or there's beer ..I think or I could make up some lasagne or nachos or something ..... '' he babbled.

Spike shook his head violently to clear his brain ... his knees had almost given out when Xander had rubbed his cock against the wooden cabinet .... he had bitten his own tongue to stop from moaning at the boys delectably teasing movements. Angel had dug his fingernails into his shoulder and panted uncontrollably over the back of his neck...that too had not been helpful in keeping his own cock under control . It now strained against his jeans painfully ....Spike really really needed some blood to calm himself down right now....or things would get decidedly messy.

'' Xan ...you wouldn't happen to have any blood in your fridge for an old pal ? ''

Without looking up at Spike he wandered over to the fridge, opening it he retrieved the blood bags from the second shelf and handed one to Spike with a shy smile.

Spike glanced down at the label ...human ...fresh ... O-positive ...What the ????

Xander grinned at Spikes obvious surprise that one of the Scooby's would actually store blood in their home for him .

'' You have helped us out a lot and well I guess I kind of expected you to come by ...but you never did ...anyway I made sure I kept a store of the good stuff on hand just in case you ever did come for a visit ''

Spike was ecstatic .... he wasn't forgotten by everyone, and not by the one that counted.

Xander frowned ..this just wasn't normal Spike behaviour...where was the threatening of his life ...the ridiculing of basically everything that he was ..... this was scary ...Spike being nice .

Spike scowled '' Well you don't know the first thing about me boy . I was just trying to say how bloody grateful I was that you would even think to get me blood ...let alone store it here fresh on a regular basis ...but I can't win , you know not everything that comes out of my mouth is a game .... I was being goddamn sincere ...believe me won't happen again mate ''

Xander stepped up to him ,wrapping his arms around Spikes waist he drew him close '' I'm sorry ... jumped to conclusions , forgive me... just used to you insulting me ''

'' I can do that too if you like ? '' Spike grinned trailing a finger down Xander's cheek , he cupped that cheek and started to lean forward.

Xander stepped back out of the embrace when the timer for the microwave went off . Chicken .

'' Don't mind if I do .... never touched the stuff and I'm curious as to what it tastes like ''

Angel gingerly took one tiny morsel of corn between his fingers and studied it from all angles ....smelling it and rubbing it gently to feel its texture .

Xander laughed as Spike growled at his Sire and Angel just peered back at him innocently popping the morsel in his mouth and rolling the buttery taste around in his mouth. Swallowing he poked out his tongue at Spike.

Spike smirked at Angels cheeky show of immaturity (mind you two hundred years hadn't improved his juvenile state either so he couldn't judge Angel).

'' You know nothing was stopping you from eating popcorn before you poof ...and its rather nice dipped in blood ''

Spike spluttered '' Ewww?? You lived on the stuff only yesterday and now its eww? ''

'' Blood and popcorn it just seems like awful combination '' Angel was imagining a cup full of blood ...a red sea with tiny white balls of corn rolling , bobbing around on the surface ..he shivered with disgust at the nightmare vision in his mind.

Xander took the blood bag out of Spikes hands , smiling at him he indicated the microwave . Xander quickly dumped the contents of the packet in one of his large cappuccino mugs ....placing it in the microwave ..65 seconds later he handed it back to Spike .

Spike took the mug from Xander making sure he grazed his fingers against Xander's in the transference. Bringing the mug to his lips he tasted the richness of human blood -he sighed in contentment , it had been awhile .

Xander brought the bowl of popcorn over to Spike before Angel scoffed the lot . Seems tasting each piece had lost its individual appeal and now Angel was downing handfuls. Least he had the decency to look ashamed as Xander forcefully snatched away the bowl from his grasp.

'' Damn peaches your going to have to slow down or your going to lose that girlish figure of yours '' Spike laughed as Angel glared at him.

Angel licked his fingers slowly , rolling his tongue around the tip of each finger his eyes never left Spikes . Spike didn't even blink as that pink tongue darted out to wet shiny lips clean of all buttery substance. Good god he remembered what that tongue could do to his cock .... that man had talent where it counted.

With determination he stalked towards Angel ...who backed up at his Childe's seductive purr . He sent a pleading look at Xander who in turn just shook his head and laughed . Nope he wanted to watch this show.... hell he wanted to participate.

.........................................................................................................................................................

As Spike drew close ...so very very close , he stopped . Bringing one hand up to Angels face he held a morsel of popcorn in front of his Sire . Waving it tantalizingly in the air ...just out of Angels reach , taunting him .

'' Yummy yummy ....want some Ang ?...come and fetch pet its delicious and good for you '' Spike teased him mercilessly .

Angel grinned at Spike as he playfully ducked and weaved his head attempting to grab at that piece of sugary goodness with his mouth. He bit at the empty air , snapping his teeth looking rather adorable, hair all ruffled and so completely not like either Spike or Xander had ever seen him before. Then in an instant the predator gleam shone in his eyes as he switched personalities , taking a step away from the wall he chuckled as he noted Spike gulp in fear. Angel knew he shouldn't laugh because with their past together came the memories of how he mistreated Spike and he badly wanted to be forgiven for those horrendous tortures he had bestowed upon his Childe. Then again even a hundred years apart and his current human condition hadn't stopped him from naturally falling into old comfortable rhythms. Me dominant -you submissive. Could he let go ? Let Spike take him?

While Angel had been thinking this through Spike had dipped the popcorn ball into his mug of warm blood he had been hiding behind his back .Scratching a nail down Angels face to grab his attention Spike tossed the red-dipped corn into Angels pain induced open mouth.

Clutching a palm to his injured face he glared, radiating betrayal at what Spike had done. Spike instantly succumbed to his biggest weakness -guilt ....most demons like him seemed not to possess such a curse but he could never escape his own guilt... he could pretend he didn't feel it , act tough and uncaring but it was always there. He hadn't been getting back at Angel ...he had just honestly forgotten that his Sire was now human and that little scratch down his cheek would have stung like buggery not flared any kind of sexual bloodplay that he had been aiming for.

Angel winced as he drew his hand away from his gouged cheek ...Man, that had damn well hurt!! . He would have to be so careful around Spike..... not as flexible that he had been only yesterday. Staring at the blood patterns across his hand ..it was so strange not to have that gnawing hunger for blood welling up in his stomach. He felt nothing and somehow that felt so much worse.

Stepping closer to Spike he brought his bloody hand towards his Childe's mouth. Stopping , he waited as Spike gazed blinking -astounded at the offer . Spike had been expecting a tantrum not a gift of Sire blood . Angel smiled nodding for Spike to go ahead. Before Angel had time to recant Spike grabbed at the hand ,drawing each blood soaked finger into his mouth ...one at a time he licked off the delectable substance , sucking at the palm ...worming his tongue into every crevice as Angel was left breathless and boneless leaning against Spikes chest. When Spike finished his snack and gave the cleaned hand back ,Angel couldn't help but stare at it in fascination at being at the opposite end of this vampires talented tongue.

Looking blankly up at Spike with a glazed expression Spike couldn't help but trail his fingers through Angels soft hair , mussing it up even further then it was already ... gently he licked at the seeping wound on Angels cheek . When the blood stopped flowing Spike moved to kiss Angel lightly across his lips. When Angel attempted to deepen the kiss Spike quickly stood back . Sending a startled Angel falling into the wall behind him , trying to clear his throat and calm his blazing skin down - he was ashamed that he had tried to take advantage of Spike and how quickly he had felt the surge of lust flood into his body at the merest touch from his Childe.

Angel could see that Spike was avoiding eye contact -he only wanted to apologize , but he didn't have the words... Where did he start? . Snatching up the empty popcorn bowl , he needed a distraction , so he started to fill the sink with water. Xander began to bellow with laughter behind him.

'' You know Angel its not necessary for you to do the dishes... or is that dish . Think I can leave that one for tomorrow but........'' the rest of Xander's words were drowned out literally as he ended up drenched from head to toe in icy cold water that Angel had thrown over him.

Lets just say Xander wasn't laughing for long as the freezing water seeped through his clothes and clung to his skin. Xander shivered looking sternly at Angel , who in turn just fluttered his eyelashes shyly as if he radiated an embodiment of innocence in those dark swirling pupils.

Xander growled at Angel as he slowly unbuttoned his sopping wet shirt , sliding the slick material off his shoulders and down his arms which was difficult when it came to his cast. He licked his lips as he observed how Angel was watching the journey of every droplet of water as they trickled over his bare chest and soaked into his slacks . He grew hard just seeing the longing reflected in those caramel depths. Balling up the wet material he discarded it in a heap on the floor as he lunged for the man.

Angel lost his balance as he careened into the wall again and Xander thrust the length of his body tightly against Angels. Wriggling one persistent knee between Angels legs he rubbed his hipbone up against Angels groin. Both gasped at the heated response as in desperation two sets of hands skimmed across each others flesh. Xander ripped Angels shirt from his torso as the fire of his desire intensified and inflamed them both. Xander leaning forward slid his tongue over the shell of Angels ear ...nibbling at the flesh before softly biting at the lobe. Angel sighed in contentment as his own fingers glided across the muscles on Xander's stomach. Xander had nibbled and pressed wet open kisses down to Angels jaw only to slide his tongue down to his neck in one long wet lick. Angel gave a breathy whimper as he arched his head back so that Xander had better access. Angel kneaded the tight muscles under his fingers slowly circling higher till he met Xander's nipples. The touch jolted Xander to the core as he groaned his pleasure against Angels neck . Angel moaned in return as Xander bit frantically across his throat ..both thrusting their cocks together through the roughness of the material , desperately seeking the friction they needed as their lust spiralled out of control.

Xander forced himself to step back ....eyes wide they both stared at each other ,panting in short shallow breaths trying to calm down a little . One sultry gaze from Angel and Xander had latched his good arm onto the front of Angels pants and dragged him through the kitchen door heading for the bedroom . Xander turned as he pushed Angel on ahead of him. Leering at Spike he beckoned with a crooked finger for the vampire to follow .

Spike pursed his lips and then sucked at his bottom lip just thinking of the fun he was going to have tonight, he sauntered after the other two as they disappeared through the kitchen door. He was confident he could dominate both men if he so chose . Reaching for the door handle he entangled his feet in Xander's neglected wet shirt sending him crashing to the floor on his ass.

'' Owww Shit!! ...that damn well hurt '' struggling with the slick material clinging to his legs he jumped up, rubbing his ass vigorously to stop the tingling , straightening his clothes to regain his composure and stomping out the door towards the bedroom in a silent huff.

Entering the bedroom Spike came to a full stop at the door growling under his breath , digging his nails into the wood at the sight before him. Bent over at the waist was Xander, who was busy peeling off his wet slacks ...inching the material over his butt . The cotton boxers cling provocatively to those perfect ass cheeks as he slid the drenched pants down his legs . The cotton almost transparent as the muscles tightened enticingly. Spike couldn't stand still a moment longer as he yearned to touch him .....closing the distance he grabbed at Xander's hips , bringing the boy flush against his groin . Grinding his hardening erection between Xander's cheeks . Spike panted and purred out his need for release while Xander pushed back harshly , twisting his own hips back against Spike , bucking out his own need against Spikes unyielding flesh. Skin flushed crimson ...a shallow keening coming from the back of his throat as Spike frantically increased his thrusts ....forcing Xander to lose his balance and topple onto the bed , on top of a spread-eagled and rather obviously excited Angel .

Xander sought out Angels mouth with urgency.....plunging his tongue into Angels wet warm mouth. The velvet slide of tongues as both men cried out as each of their cocks pressed into the other. A slow rhythm as they humped softly against each other. Kisses consisted of a wet glide of tongues, nibbling of lips , mewling and gasps floating out between sighs of extreme pleasure . Angel gripped Xander's butt cheeks in each hand as he massaged the skin in bruising ever maddening circles. Xander punctuated the air with a frenzied series of whimpers as he gazed enraptured at Angels flushed face adorned with the most deliciously kissable ruby red lips he had ever seen. Appetite wetted Xander kissed across Angels shoulders , his fingers gliding down Angels sides only to sneak under the material to brush gently through pubic hair and no further.

Sitting up and straddling Angels hips he worked his fingers into the buttons of the mans pants ....the soft gasp of surprise as Xander thrust his hot warm hand against an even hotter length of pulsing flesh. With a firm grip around Angels cock he slid his fingers tightly up and eventually down the length of the blood engorged skin...drops of precum making the journey faster and slicker as a desperate Angel arched into the sheets ...grinding his sweat soaked hair against soft cream sheets , digging his hands desperately into the mattress.

'' More ......more oh god more ...don't stop '' he managed to breathe out between gritted teeth , it had been so long since anyone had touched him like that.

That warmth and heat so inviting ...so tempting ...god he so needed the release ...he hungered ...he ached for it. It was just that more stimulating to have his skin now alive with moving blood . He had lost his acute senses for the emotions that he could once read from his partner .... but this .... instant awareness of his own excitement... elevated breathing ...heart beat ... skin alive ...the shiver of Goosebumps raised all over...sweat... that was entirely too much to take in when there was another hot body against him doing exactly the same...and there was the heat.... like liquid fire...skin rubbing against skin...unquenchable flames licking at his mind turning it into a puddle of goo.

Leaning forward Xander brought his warm lips to burning flesh. Exploring with his tongue the tip of Angels cock , following the veins along the underside of the heated skin in his mouth he sucked gently at first ...testing the mans reaction to his actions. When he could hear a jumble of unintelligent mumblings swallowed by mewling gasps ...he sucked harder at the throbbing flesh ... he wished he could touch more of the skin but he needed his good arm to prop himself up. Inhaling deeply at Angels musky scent as pubic hairs tickled his nose ...he increased his pace at Angels insistent thrusting .

'' Oh god Xan...Xan...gonna make me cum .....ahhhh oh yes... oh yes ...don't stop .... more ''

Xander groaned clamping down around Angels cock in surprise when he felt probing fingers circle his own hole . Angel screamed as irresistible vibrations slammed into his trapped cock and sent his body into twitching convulsions as he came in long spurts down Xander's throat .

Then the warmth was gone .. Angels eyes flew open to witness Spike pick up Xander and toss him onto the bed beside him with no effort whatsoever. Spike climbed on top of Xander fully clothed straddling the struggling boy.

'' Spike I wasn't finished with Deadb...Angel ... please wait your turn '' as he tried to get up but Spike had him pinned good with his heavy body pressing him firmly into the mattress.

'' I'm not a patient vamp pet... I say Angels time is up and its now my turn '' he grinned triumphantly at Xander.

'' Uh-uh..... I'm not ready for you yet ... one at a time...just wait '' as he attempted to shove at Spikes chest with his right arm.

'' Well see Xanny I just can't wait any longer '' and he proceeded to shrug his duster off his shoulders and inch the tight black-t over his head. Both items ended up on the floor at the foot of the bed. Xander smiled he couldn't argue with that when he now had the man half undressed in front of him ... what's a horny boy to do but try and get the other half off .

..........................................................................................................................................................

Angel turned on his side... brushing a hand against the sheets as he feasted on the entanglement of limbs and arms beside him on the bed. Spike had lost his duster and t-shirt and was heatedly arguing with Xander, who was sprawled underneath him. The argument wasn't a drag out hissy fit... no... not at all. This was just Spike asserting his dominance over Xander, plus, Spike had never been patient when he wanted something. At this moment, that something was a dark haired human boy named Alexander Harris.

The one with Chestnut eyes that awakened an all consuming fire in his belly. Angel knew that feeling , only now that he was human it had somehow intensified. Sweaty palms, pulse pounding in his chest, the soaring heat of his own skin... all of it was so confusing, yet exhilarating... it scared him and excited him. So strange to hear your own heart after so many years of dead silence... a stillness that had once been a comfort. Now he had blood pumping through his body...the rush of being alive again was so loud... life was noisy and messy, that in itself would take him a while to get used to. Angel was used to quiet reflection and time for brooding, neatness and order... his life now was ruled by chaos, he had to except it, embrace it.

Angel was brought out of his wandering thoughts by a low growl from Spike’s throat as he squeezed Xander’s hips with his powerful thighs. Xander ceased to struggle as Spike lifted his body slightly so that his denim covered crotch rubbed mercilessly against the boy’s. Xander arched off the bed, his hands flew to Spike’s hips where he squeezed them under the material... heated fingers splayed against stark white cool skin. Spike rode the wave of Xander’s body, a knowing smirk gracing his features.

Angel couldn't help but be tempted by that expanse of creamy skin. The itch was too great... he needed to touch Spike. Inched a hand slowly across the divide of wrinkled sheets. Contact with soft skin, the pads of his fingers glided down his Childe's side. He was lost... in the emotions and in the memories of what they had meant to each other once. Nights alone together, when they didn't need to pretend to be violent and sadistic just to please the women in their lives. When vampire rules of dominance and submission could be reversed or completely ignored, so that only the brush of fingers, caress of an arm, the stroke of a cheek, the rub of lips against flesh remained. Only in those times alone could they explore with no fear of being caught.

When the muscles under his fingers tensed... Angel flicked his eyes up towards Spike’s. Caught by that angry glare, Angel shrank back to the corner of the bed, snatching his hand away to curl it against his own belly... erasing the much desired coolness that had penetrated his flesh at touching his Childe. A creature he had created that was now staring at him with absolute contempt and hate in his eyes. Angel flinched, sliding onto the floor he turned away from the hostility that was spitting fire from Spike’s eyes.

''Don't you dare touch me.''

''I'm sorry... so sorry... forgive me,'' Angel murmured... grabbing his clothes he backed out of the bedroom. In the lounge he quickly dressed and quietly slipped out of Xander’s apartment. Angel had to get out of there, he could feel the sting of tears behind his eyes ... threatening to gush out and humiliate him. It had been too long... he knew he wouldn't be able to stop the flood of emotions that were going to crush him. Ignoring the lift he headed directly for the stairs just as he heard the apartment door open and slam shut behind him. It had to be Spike... but he couldn't look, but he hesitated... waiting for the torrent of abuse.

''I yell at you and you bloody take off? Not like you at all Peaches, you used to have backbone. Is this the weak human you have turned into?'' Spike stood there, his accusing voice striking Angel’s heart... he had to get the hell out of there right now... these were not the words he had dared to hope for. Trading insults with Spike had been commonplace in their relationship... so why was it so hard to take now? Why now the ever threat of tears waiting to engulf him with every cruel word uttered? He was an emotional mess, he felt so ashamed at himself.

Barrelling down the flight of stairs... Spike behind him... gaining on him... Angel had just reached the lobby when Spike pounced on him... struggling they toppled over onto the floor. Spike stopped wrestling with Angel when he caught sight of the tears streaming down Angel’s face. He gasped shocked, he didn't know how to react to seeing his Sire... his mentor crying before him... knowing he had caused it. He should have been ecstatic but all he felt was guilt and anger at what he had said. Angel unfortunately read that rage as disgust towards him and quietly backed out from under Spike... he turned and darted out the front entranceway.

''Angel...no!! Stop!!!'' Spike reached to grab him, pulling back with a violent hiss as his hand burst into flames from the early morning sunlight. Spike watched as his Sire walked away from him and out into the day where he couldn't follow. Damn it... this wasn't the end. Turning on his heels he pounded up the steps and into Xander’s apartment.

........................................................................................

When Spike had gone after Angel... Xander had shot out of bed and hurriedly dressed in his robe, rushing into the kitchen his mind couldn't help but torture him with images of what had happened that night. What was he thinking? ... Where was his head? ... It certainly wasn't the one on his shoulders that was doing the controlling with here. There was Anya in his life...and he loved her... didn't he? All Xander's insecurities seemed to be biting him on the arse. What was he doing here? Two vampires... okay one vamp and a former vamp... fighting it out for his attention....totally BIZARRE .

He knew one thing for certain... he wanted the chance to find out what it could be like, but was it greedy to want to have both of them? Xander needed to talk to Anya before this got out of hand, he needed to break it off with her as gently as he could...he really didn't want to incur her demon wrath but it wasn't fair to string her along like this when he wanted another.

Xander came hurtling out of the kitchen when Spike sent the front door crashing against the wall, the wood shuddering with the fury at which it had been attacked.

''Where is he?'' Xander was furiously scrubbing the milk he had spilt from his robe when the front door slammed scaring the hell out of him. Xander looked past Spike... thinking that Angel must be somewhere behind him.

''He’s not bloody well here is he, bleed'n couldn't follow the bastard’'... Spike didn't even glance at Xander as he stalked into the bedroom, yanking the cover off the bed and marching back out the front door. ''Like I'd let a little sun stop me,'' he muttered.

''Hey... you’re not using my quilt, I just bought that... Spike? ...Spike?... Maybe he just needs to be by himself... you’re going to make this worse!'' Xander yelled after him but the vampire was long gone. Like anyone bloody well listens to me anyway. Damn it... yanking the robe off his shoulders he kicked it into a corner and stomped off towards the bathroom.

''... Ahhhh bloody 'ell where does he get off ... Sires who needs ‘em?'' Spike mumbled to himself as he gathered the quilt over his head while tearing down the stairs once again. A wave of smoke immediately rose from the hefty material as he ventured outside, blinding him momentarily. He stumbled, smacking his shoulder into the concrete wall of the building. "Ow!!!'' Desperately hoping there was a little shadow there so he could gather his bearings and sense what direction Angel had headed.

''Damn him for making me care and all that crap,'' catching a whiff of his Sire, he raced off to catch up with Angel.

.............................................................................................................................................................................................

at the Magic Box...............................................

Giles was trying to unpack a new shipment of books and trinkets he'd ordered from London. To make room for all of them, there had to be some serious rearranging of the shelves. Giles had enlisted the help of Buffy and her new ‘friend’... but as it turned out 'help' was not what they been so far. If anything they were a bloody nuisance... giggling and gallivanting around the shop like horny teenagers, something he had hoped to escape now that they were all in college.

With an exasperated sigh and several rakes through his greying hair with shaky fingers ...he steadied his nerves a tad before entering the fray. ''Could you possibly put down those priceless volumes of 'Trianthes demonic Law' before you damage them… they really are rather precious and...''

A thunderous smack as half a dozen monstrous books landed on the wooden floor...while Buffy and lust interest of the moment, Julian, continued their heated kiss against the front counter.

''Oh dear,'' Giles rushed over to rescue his precious volumes from becoming trampled on. ''Buffy is this really necessary that you be here right now, this really isn't a good time''

Buffy stepped back suddenly from Julian sending him toppling over the counter when she misjudged her strength. There was a distinctive crunch as Julian landed hard on the other side of the register. ''Ouch!!!...Think I broke something... yes... definitely damaged something?'' he howled.

Buffy quickly came around the counter, crouching down she examined her boyfriend’s injuries. Damn, she had been stupid... not a wise idea flaunting that Slayer strength, she didn't want to give too much away. Buffy had decided that she was never going to have a successful long term relationship with her being the Slayer and all. So it was going to be simple, uncomplicated flings... not satisfying but at least hopefully nobody would be hurt and she didn't mean just literally. Every man that had come into her life from her own father... through Angel and then Riley...had left her. No more... she would keep it casual and they would never know about her other life.... she would keep them strictly separate. Her life would be short at best... she knew even now she was pushing the envelope. At least she could have some fun till her time ran out.

''Ummm I thought you needed me... for ummm <indicating Julian > helping you with that project... you know the one with boogie monsters in it... that hide under your bed... and eat children and such... you know about the magical girl who stopped the bad guys... <Julian was giving her a strange look, she smiled innocently back at him> we were going to write a story for the newsletter... as a bit of fun... to entice customers into the store with our whimsical ...totally fictional story''

Giles frowned... absolutely gob-smacked as to what on earth she was going on about ... then he caught on to her bizarre story. He had rang her last night, telling her he needed her early in the morning at the Magic Box... an ancient evil was approaching and they needed to plan how to stop it. Giles was immediately embarrassed... he had forgotten to call her back when he started opening his new artefacts... that whole mess about an ancient evil descending upon the hellmouth had seemed to fade into the background with each new discovery wrapped in bubble wrap.

''Ahh yes well it seems I was misinformed... darn monks of Thenomolus underestimated the phases of the moon while writing their calendars... thus their prophecies are all wrong'' Giles muttered under his breath...damn inconsiderate of the brethren too make him look silly like this… not like it wasn't hard enough to be taken seriously by these children.

''How wrong were they exactly? <one look at Julian's puzzled statement>... because its important to have a semblance of truth with your characters and not make them look too stupid...you know...to make them SEEM real... ''

Giles was really confused now. ''What are you going on about?'' Giles shook his head vigorously in utter befuddlement but answered her question anyway,'' because of their mistake this evil won't be coming for another ...well approximately ...umm three hundred years... approximately."

Thank god for Willow and teaching him to use those damn contraptions so he could find this out on the Internet and not be tramping around right now looking for an evil that wasn't coming for some time... oh no this wasn't embarrassing at all. And what on earth was going on with Buffy...was she on something ?

''Might have to pencil that one in my Diary, think I got a date that night. Isn't that a Tuesday?'' She laughed hysterically as two men looked at her in bewilderment.

Giles tried to ignore the sarcasm as he rubbed his glasses with a clean hankie he kept handy just for such moments in his life. The bell over the door tinkled as a potential customer entered the store ... sighing with relief he scuttled over hoping the lady wanted some information with her purchase ...anything to keep him away from his charge a little longer. Not that he didn't love Buffy with all his heart, but she could be insufferable sometimes and of late extremely childish and irresponsible... likely something to do with Angel being back in town, yes definitely Angel’s fault.

Giles plastered a smile on his face. ''May I help you there? ''

...............................................................................................................................................................................................

Spike following Angel..................................................

This he didn't need... traipsing after Angel, singeing his body to a crisp just so that he could apologize for his behaviour...

A.P.O.L.O.G.I.Z.E !!!!

It just wasn't in his nature to do that... and why the hell now? ... Why not at night when it was relatively safe and he wouldn't turn into blood and bone garden manure. Damn him.

Inching around the corner, Spike hugged the narrow tree lined street using every available shadow to escape the sun beating on his back. Curling his fingers around the material, he could feel the blisters on his skin, cursing under his breath at the stupidity of it all... it was going to take days to heal with only pig’s blood to feed him... damn damn damn this chip.

Angel was strolling up ahead of him... well isn't that lovely, he looks positively cheery ...looking around him like he hasn't seen the sun before... oh yeah!!! He hasn't < snicker> bloody hell hasn't it been like a day already, don't you think the novelty would have worn off ? . Friggin’ flowers and squawking birds, at least the night was silent.

Spike knew darn well that he would be walk'n around in a daze for weeks on end if he could be in the sun but he’s gotta be snarky. Another thing to get him all pissy with his Sire about... that ring with the gem of Amara set in it... Angel the Wanker had to destroy it...he could be walking around in the sun right now, too, if he had that ring.

Now why was it again that he was toasting himself...oh that’s right, to Apologize... to Spike’s utter disgust he was going to attempt it.... well sort of

''Oi!! Misery guts... stop a minute, would ya?'' Spike came up behind Angel... grabbing his shirt he pulled Angel towards an over hanging tree ...with lot of shade under it.

''Spike!!!... What are you doing out here?'' Angel blinked at his childe suddenly furious at why Spike was risking his life just to taunt him some more.

''Oh catching some rays ... try'n for a nice tan ''

''Not funny ''

''Didn't know you cared, luv.''

''Always... Spike. Always ...your my...''

Spike interrupted ''Yeah well I was never yours ...so you can cut the 'my childe' bleed'in heart nonsense ... could have done with those words of devotion mate... oh say a century ago. ''

''Devotion ... I wouldn't go that far.'' Angel scoffed.

They both smiled at each other for a second. Spike was the first one to recover ...plastering a scowl on his features.

''So ...where are you going Peaches?''

Nothing like changing the subject. Obviously today wasn't the day for any sort of deep and meaningful conversations. Angel took a step away from Spike, glancing up at the sun through the leaves... where was he going... he had no clue... he was free to do anything... but for some reason he needed to be close to what was familiar. He was sure Spike could sense his fear but he didn't know how to begin to explain it to himself let alone these emotions to his childe, and was glad at the moment Spike had chosen not to ask.

''I'm going to see Giles ''

''Oh wonderful just what I need, a bloody lecture from the Watcher,'' he mumbled ...scuffing his boots against the rough bark of the tree a childish pout on his face.

''Okay, I'll be leaving you here then... don't get into to much trouble'' Angel gave him one last look then ducked out from under the tree and carried on his way.

Spike scoffed. ‘'Trouble eh??'' he frowned at Angel. ''What are you bleed'n talking about? .... Oh yes, Daddy, I promise I won't go scare the natives,'' he laughed. ''You’re a riot mate, you really are hilarious...you could always get a job in stand up!''