Spike stretched, working the kinks out of his back. He'd spent the entire night in that bloody uncomfortable chair of Xander's, but no way was he going to move. At every toss and turn, he'd tensed, ready to calm the boy if he'd gotten too restless and begun to strain his injuries. At about 5:00 a.m., he'd awakened the human and coaxed two more of the pain pills into him. He could probably have waited for Xander to awaken, but he figured this way, they wouldn't have to wait for the drugs to kick in.

He squinted at the clock. 8:43. //Should get some breakfast ready, I suppose.// With a last glance at the still-sleeping boy, he quietly tiptoed upstairs, taking the tray and dishes with him.

The remaining soup from the night before still sat on the counter, and Spike grimaced at the sight of it. //Right, gotta stick that stuff in the fridge.// Gingerly, he dumped the bowl and its contents into the sink.

Another search through the cupboards yielded a can of tomato soup and some canned peach slices. //Shop much, people?// He snorted wryly. Looks like a trip to the grocery store was in order.

Since the orange juice was just about gone, Spike poured a glass of water and added some ice. He placed this on the tray after depositing the dirty dishes in the sink.

Hearing a small yelp from the basement, he dashed back down the stairs. Glaring at Xander, who was now sitting on the edge of his bed wearing a pained expression, he crossed his arms and tapped a foot. "And just where do you think *you're* going?"

Xander grimaced, tossing Spike an annoyed look. "Bathroom. Must pee. It's a quirk we living people have."

"Yeah, well, you better not be planning on walking there, mate."

"I see. And how else am I supposed to get there, hmm?"

Spike rolled his eyes, then walked over to the bed. With little effort, he scooped the human up, cradling him gently in his arms as he made his way over to the bathroom. Once there, he stopped. //Now what? Doc kinda forgot to tell me 'bout this part.//

Xander winced slightly as Spike set him down. "Yeah, well thanks. I think I can take it from here."

"Pet, you can't exactly stand. I mean, the knee, and the ribs...how you planning on , you know?"

"I'll manage." This through gritted teeth, and accompanied by a petulant glare.

"Sure? I mean, I can help." //Someone tell me I didn't just say that.//

"That's...ok."

"Right then. I'll just...wait outside."

"Yeah. You do that." He arched an eyebrow at Spike until the vampire backed completely out of the bathroom, then swung the door shut.

Spike stood right next to the door, ready to bust inside should Xander have any difficulties. Shamelessly, he tuned his hearing in on the room, listening closely to the boy's every movement. When the toilet was flushed, he waited a few seconds to allow Xander the chance to get himself 'decent', then opened the door partway. "Xan? You done?"

"Just gotta wash my hands."

Spike entered the room, helping the limping boy over to the sink. "Lean on me, mate. Don't want you messing up that knee again." Once Xander had finished, Spike carried him back to his bed.

"You know, you don't have to do this, Spike. I can manage."

Spike just snorted and continued with tucking the covers back in around the human. Fixing Xander with a serious look, he admonished the boy. "Now, you stay here. No more moving, got it?" He waited for the exasperated nod, then went back upstairs to finish fixing breakfast.

He looked once more at the two cans he'd left on the counter. Not that there was much food in the place to begin with, but that was all he could find that the doctor had included on his list. //Not exactly appetizing.// Oh, well, he'd make do.

Following the instructions on the can of soup, he mixed it with some water and heated it up. A clean bowl was found, and some soup ladled into it. He covered the remainder with plastic wrap and stuck it in the refrigerator, along with the can of peaches.

Another careful trip downstairs, and the tray was set down by the bed. "Xan? Breakfast."

"What is it?"

"Soup. Tomato." He shrugged. "Sorry, it's about all I could find."

"Not a problem. I should have remembered the lack of food around this place. We could always order a pizza." His eyes widened hopefully.

Spike narrowed his eyes, thrusting Dr. Fredericks list in front of the boy. "You see pizza on here, pet? 'Cause I sure didn't."

Xander pouted. "Oh, fine." He hesitated, then obediently opened his mouth for the spoon that was now edging closer.

Spike glanced up from a book, surreptitiously examining Xander. The human had been unusually quiet the entire day. Not that he seemed withdrawn, just...not talkative. Introspective, maybe. He'd answer when spoken to, occasionally toss in a few acerbic comments, and, less frequently, ask for help with some mundane task. But for the most part, he'd either spent his time watching television or reading one of his many comic books.

The vampire was worried. Not that he'd ever admit that, but he somehow didn't think this behavior was indicative of Xander coming to terms with his assault. Really, it was just plain...weird.

"Would you stop that?" Xander glanced up in semi-annoyance.

"Stop what?" the vampire asked in all innocence.

"Staring. I'm starting to feel like a bug or something. I'm *fine*. Give it a rest."

Spike sighed deeply. "Sure, pet." He turned his eyes back to the pages in front of him, shuffling through them idly. Once he heard Xander flip a page of his comic, he resumed his perusal of the boy.

"Spike!"

"What?" //Bloody hell, he's not even looking at me!//

"I can *feel* you staring at me! Cut it out already!" Xander set his comic book down and crossed his arms as he glared at Spike. "Look, why don't you go, I don't know, shopping or something. It's almost dark, and I need food anyway. And you should stop by the butcher too, pick up something for yourself."

"I dunno. You think you're up for an outing?"

"Who says I'm going anywhere? I'm gonna stay in bed like a good little patient. Doctor's orders." He grinned, snickering under his breath.

Spike growled softly. "I ain't leavin' you here alone, pet."

Xander sobered. "Look, Spike. We need to eat. And I'm not supposed to move. Try to be logical about this." He rolled his eyes. "I promise I won't go anywhere. But you get to change the sheets if I wet the bed."

"But--"

"Food! Hungry. Feed me!"

After a few more minutes of hedging, Spike finally capitulated. He spent the next half-hour fussing around the basement, making sure Xander had everything he could possibly need within reach. Then he stood uncomfortably by the door, thumbs hooked in his pockets. "Right then, I guess I'll be off. You sure--?"

"*Yes*, Spike. Go. I'll be fine. Oh, and uh, maybe you should see about getting a change of clothes." He cast a significant glance at Spike's shirt, the same bloodstained and punctured article of clothing he'd been wearing since the incident with the Vithrell demon.

"Yeah, ok. Um, guess I'll be off then. Won't be too long." He stalled, waiting for some sign that he should call off the trip, but Xander just stared at him levelly. Finally, he heaved a sigh, and left.

As he drove, Spike drummed his fingers on the steering wheel. He was not at all comfortable with having left his Num---Xander home by himself, but the boy was right. They did need food. //Right then. Quick in and out job at the store, snag some blood for me, swing by crypt for some clothes, then back to the boy.// He nodded decisively. No problem.

The first stop was an all night grocery store. He quickly made his way down the aisles, consulting the doctor's list and tossing every item that fit the criteria into his shopping cart. Lots of soup, soft fruits, juices, and a few boxes of Jell-O. He thought about the popsicles, but figured they'd melt before he managed to get them to a freezer. //'Sides, watching Xan eat 'em would give me ideas, and now is *not* the time for that!//

After only 20 minutes, his cart was full, and he proceeded to the checkout line, using his ill-gotten gains to pay for the food. Once the bags were loaded into the trunk of the DeSoto, he sped off to purchase his own dinner.

A short drive later, and he pulled into the parking lot of the shop where he normally purchased his supply of blood. A butcher's shop/convenience store to most people, a select few were privileged enough to be allowed...special orders.

"Earl!" He taped a foot a bit impatiently, waiting until a balding, portly older gentleman came out of the back.

"Spike. I was expecting you. The usual?"

"Nah, got some extra dosh to blow, gimme the good stuff."

Earl nodded, then disappeared into the back once more. Spike could hear him rummaging around in his walk-in cooler, uttering soft exclamations of satisfaction when he found what he wanted.

"Here you go. A dozen human, assorted blood types. Even packed 'em in a carton with dry ice for you."

"Thanks, mate. What'll it be?" Spike pulled out his wallet.

"For you? Well, you don't often shell out for this stuff. How about...$200 for the lot?"

Spike whistled. "Quite a deal there. You usually charge $25 a packet for these."

Earl grinned. "Well, maybe once I get you hooked on buying my best, I'll jack the price up."

"You would." Spike just shook his head in amusement, extracting the money and handing it over. As an afterthought, he also purchased a few packs of cigarettes and some matches, adding the requisite amount of cash to the pile on the counter. "Be seein' you, Earl." He dropped the cigarettes into various pockets, and picked up the carton, hefting it easily.

"Later, Spike. Don't get dusted."

Spike pulled up outside the cemetery. He left the car, walking quickly over to his crypt. Once inside, he rummaged through his things, stuffing his few articles of clothing into a duffel bag that he'd nicked a few days previously. He took a last look around the sparsely furnished place, not seeing anything else he really needed. //I can always come back for the rest some other time.//

Back outside, he pulled the door to his crypt shut, then walked back to his car. Idly, he glanced down at his watch. //Under an hour. Not bad.//

He climbed back into his car, revving the engine and tearing off into the night. He had almost made it back to Xander's place when he spied something sharp-looking in the road. Cursing, he wrenched the wheel around, swerving into the opposite lane, but still managed to hit the object. Shortly thereafter, the dull 'thump, thump' of rubber slapping against pavement sounded as the car jerked to the right.

Growling, Spike pulled off the side of the road and stopped the car, flinging the door open and walking around to the other side. He glared down at the offending tire. "Bloody hell!" He snarled, kicking the tire repeatedly. Finally, he sighed, rubbing his forehead tiredly. He looked at his watch again, then glanced up the street.

He was only about half a mile away. He could change the tire in under 10 minutes, and be back on the road. No big deal.

//Fuck.// Something was gnawing away at him, and he was feeling extremely uncomfortable. Sure, he didn't want to leave Xander alone for too long, but what was a few more minutes? He shuffled his feet. //Aw, shit.// Something was wrong. He knew it. He had to get back, *now*.

Barely even taking enough time to lock the doors to the DeSoto, he was about to take off running when he heard a rustling in the bushes nearby. Stalking over, he pulled out the vampire hiding there, shaking him. An idea struck. "You know me?"

Eyes wide, the other vampire nodded. "You're S-S-Spike," he gasped out.

"That's right, mate. And that there is my car. See it?" He twisted the fledgling's head around as he pointed at the DeSoto. Another frightened nod was his response. "Good. Now, you're gonna do me a favor, see? *you* are gonna make sure no one touches my car, got it?" More nodding.

Spike grinned. "Great." He let go of the vampire, setting him down and dusting him off. "What's your name, anyhow?"

"Um, it-it's Thomas."

"Well, Thomas. You take care now." He turned, then paused. "Oh, and if you screw up, I'll chain you down and shove sharp pieces of wood into every available inch of your skin, then leave you screaming in agony to await the dawn. " He flashed another grin, then took off.

Thomas watched the blonde vampire go, still trembling. //Why me? I just came out for a bit of dinner, and *this* happens.// Sighing, he settled down to keep watch over Spike's beloved DeSoto, hoping with all his might that the slayer didn't choose this time to show up.

Spike reached Xander's house in record time. If he'd been human, he would have dropped dead from sheer exhaustion. As it was, he was almost panting anyway. Utter panic, or as close to it as a master vampire would ever admit to coming, gripped him when he saw the vehicle parked in the driveway. //Shit, *no*!//

Darting around back, he tore the door open, racing down the stairs. The scent of fear assailed him, and he felt himself shift into gameface in an automatic response to the threat against the one he'd claimed. He let out a snarl of pure rage at what he saw.

Xander lay cowering in his bed, cringing back from his father, whose hulking form was straddled over him.

*****
Part 14:

The gang was all seated around Giles' table, sifting through stacks of books.

"What are we looking for, again?" Buffy blinked up at the ex-Watcher, boredom clear on her face.

Giles sighed. "For the eleventh time, we are researching any references to the Cimmerii, seeing as the prophecy Tara found this morning vaguely alludes to their involvement in an upcoming demonic ritual.

"Oh. Right." She shrugged. "Sorry, I forgot."

Giles began to massage his temples wearily. //Oh, lord. Why me?// He tried to ignore the sound of Riley's pacing, knowing that snapping at him would do absolutely no good.

"Hey, Giles, think I've got something." Holding up her book, the Slayer grinned. "It says that these Cimmerii things are 'a mythical people purported to live in eternal darkness.' And, um..." she flipped a few pages, then back again. "Actually, I guess that's about it."

"Well, I must say that sounds depressingly like vampires." Giles took off his glasses and began to polish them. "Not terribly informative, but it helps. Keep looking."

The room was quiet but for the rustle of pages and the occasional cough or sneeze as a dusty tome was opened and searched. After long minutes, a squeal broke the silence.

"Oh! I may have found another prophecy!!" Willow traced her finger over the passage she'd come across. "It's in Latin. 'Ecce! Cimmerii vectora luminis adorientur et cooperient. Et os Infernis effringebitur.'"

Buffy rolled her eyes. "Ok. And for those of us who failed miserably in our foreign language class...this means what?"

"Loosely translated? Um, gimme a sec." Willow furrowed her brow in thought, then said, "Oh. Uh-oh."

"Uh-oh? What uh-oh?" Buffy sat up stiffly.

"Um, it...seems to be another apocalypsey type of prophecy. It goes, 'Behold! The Cimmerii shall rise up and envelop the bearers of light. And the mouth of Hell shall be broken open.'" She glanced up at Giles for confirmation.

He nodded. "That does seem to sum it up nicely, yes."

"Oh. So...what? We up the patrols and do some major slayage? I mean, we've been through this whole 'evil vampire taking over the Hellmouth' deal before. What's the diff?" Buffy really couldn't see anything to get worked up about. Same old, same old.

"Because...these 'Cimmerii' may not be your typical type of vampire. The usual methods might not be enough to defeat them. As a matter of fact, it's entirely possible that the text isn't referring to vampires at all. The prophecy isn't too terribly clear."

"Whatever. I can take 'em, no worries."

"Be that as it may, it would behoove us to keep looking for more information."

Buffy groaned, then went back to her books.

Tara, who'd kept pretty much to herself the entire evening, looked around the room. In a quiet voice, she asked Willow, "Hey, where do you think Xander is?"

Buffy overheard. "He's probably goofing off. He hates these research fests."

Willow frowned. "I don't know. He usually calls if he can't come, and I haven't heard from him since the other night. I hope he's not sick or anything."

"I'm sure he's fine. He's a big boy, Willow. He can take care of himself." Buffy waved her hand dismissively.

"I know. I just worry sometimes." She started leafing through her manuscripts again. A moment later, she looked up once more. "You know, Spike hasn't been around since that night either. You don't think maybe...he did something to Xander, do you?"

Riley scoffed. "He's neutered, he can't hurt anyone. He's probably off somewhere licking his wounds. Figuratively speaking. It might be kind of difficult to achieve literally, considering their placement."

"Yeah, I'm sure you're right. I think I'll call Xander tomorrow, though. You know, just in case."

Conversation pretty much died off at that point, as they all settled back down into their researching.

~~~~~~~~~~

The sounds and smells permeating the room assailed him. Through the pulsing waves of fury that washed over him, Spike dimly heard what the man hunched over his human was saying.

"Yeah, boy. Look at you, waiting here for me. Just beggin' for me. You want me, don't you? Always comin' back for more. Gonna fuck you, boy. Gonna fuck you raw." He fairly drooled at the sight of the battered, cringing boy who was frozen in fear beneath him. His fingers began to work at the buttons on his shirt. A low growl sounded in the room, and he paused.

Spike stalked closer, his growls and snarls becoming louder until they echoed in the basement. The one hurting his human twisted around, blanching when he saw what was drawing near. Spike didn't even stop to think about his actions, he immediately pounced. Snatching the man by his neck, he flung him across the room, sending him crashing into a set of shelves by the opposite wall. Ignoring the pain that immediately started in his head, he followed, wrenching the man's head up and slamming it down onto the floor.

As the body went limp, Spike fell back, clutching at his own head. He rolled on the floor in agony, whimpering as what felt like a jolt of lightening lanced through his brain. He pounded his fist against the floor, grunting as his body writhed and twisted. He barely noticed when his back slammed up against something unyielding, but the timid hand lightly stroking his neck pulled him back to awareness.

Through bleary eyes, he looked up into the tear-streaked face of his human. Xander lay trembling on his bed, panting harshly as he stared at the vampire with wide eyes. "s-s-spike...i-i-i..." He worked his mouth, trying to speak but unable to calm down enough to do so.

Immediately, Spike surged up, fighting off the lingering effects of the chip. He gathered Xander close, holding him carefully as he began to rock. "Hush, pet. It's ok. Shh." He rubbed the boy's clammy arms, trying to soothe his shaking form.

"Is...is h-h-he d-d-d--"

"Shhh." He sniffed the air, glaring over at the unmoving person huddled on the floor. Listening closely, he detected a faint but steady heartbeat. "No, he's not dead, luv, but he won't be waking up anytime soon."

Xander nodded jerkily, still sending off an acrid scent of fear as he stared at his long-time abuser.

Spike sighed. "Xander, we gotta leave. I don't care what you say 'bout it, we're *not* stayin' here!" He clenched his jaw in determination.

Xander's eyes fluttered shut as he sank back down into the bed, inching his way closer into Spike's protective embrace. Weakly, he nodded.

Relief coursed through the vampire. He would have taken the boy away no matter what, but at least this way, he knew he wouldn't have to waste energy fighting.

Wrapping a blanket around the now-shivering human, he picked him up easily and carried him up the stairs, coming to a halt in the middle of the kitchen. //Shit! No car!// He thought frantically, then glanced out the window at the vehicle in the driveway. He grinned humorlessly. //It'll do.//

Instead of taking Xander out of the house and leaving straightaway, Spike detoured into the living room. He set the boy down on the sofa, gazing worriedly into glassy eyes. "Xan? I just got a few things to take care of, an' I'll be right back, ok?" The near-catatonic human just sat there, not responding.

He chewed on his lip, leaving the room reluctantly. Back down in the basement, he dragged Xander's father into the middle of the floor, then proceeded to tie him up with some fishing line that had been stored down there for some reason. //Won't hold up long, but should keep him from interrupting my little...shopping spree.// Nodding in satisfaction, he barely restrained himself from giving the man a few more kicks, wishing he could get rid of the chip and show this human exactly how he'd earned the name of 'Spike'.

Once he had the man safely trussed up, he searched the room and found a rather worn duffel bag. Going through Xander's things, he stuffed in some of the less repulsive clothes. He then went around the room grabbing up anything he thought Xander might want or need from this place, since he had every intention of making sure his human *never* returned here.

Haivng finished with that room, he carried his spoils up the stairs and out the door. Fortunately, the car was unlocked, so Spike just pitched his load into the back seat. In the house again, he rummaged through the rooms, piling up anything useful he'd found onto a blanket that he had spread out on the rug in the living room.

Each time he added something, he took a second to check on Xander. The boy just lay there, huddled in on himself as much as possible, very obviously withdrawing from his surroundings. //Fuck! Gotta get outta here quick!//

He sprinted upstairs into the master bedroom. The sour stench of Xander's father filled this room, and the vampire had a sudden urge to retch. Shaking himself, he pawed tough the dresser, grabbing a wallet and a set of keys, along with a few bits of jewelry that might prove valuable enough to hock.

On a whim, Spike dropped to his knees, peering under the bed. A shadowy object lurked in the far corner by the wall, and he reached under to pull it out. Hefting the heavy lock-box, he shook it. Even though he couldn't hear any rattling that might indicate money or jewelry, he decided to take it anyway. //Never know what people keep in these things. Could be something good, and I can always pitch it out.// A last look around the room revealed nothing else he might find worth the effort of stealing, so Spike hurried back down to the living room.

He placed the lock-box in the center of his pile, then folded the edges of the blanket up around it. Hefting it onto his back, he staggered out to the car, using the keys he'd retained to open the trunk and letting the contents of the makeshift bag spill into the compartment. He slammed it shut, then ran back inside.

There were still no sounds from the basement, no signs that Xander's father was waking up. So Spike took his time about coaxing Xander back into his arms, taking a few moments to simply run his fingers through the boy's soft hair in what he hoped was a calming manner. "Luv, we're gonna go now. I'll just pick you up again, ok? Then we're out of this dump."

Doing his best not to startle Xander and send him into panic mode, the vampire moved slowly and smoothly to slip his arms under the boy and lift him. Something flickered inside him as Xander instinctively nuzzled closer, somehow recognizing a source of safety. //Not love. This is *not* love. I'm just...taking care of what's mine.// He spoke firmly to himself, determined not to succumb.

He settled Xander into the car, then got behind the wheel. He shifted so the boy's head was in his lap, then resumed petting the silky strands of hair under his fingertips. Starting the engine, he pealed out of the driveway, tires squealing loudly.

As they drove farther away from the house, Spike felt as if a burden had been lifted off him. He sighed, looking down at the brunette head pillowed in his lap. //Not love. This is *definitely* not love.//

*****
Part 15:

Spike parked outside of the rather upscale-looking hotel, glancing down at the boy whose head was resting in his lap. "Xander? We're here, luv."

Xander opened his eyes, blinking disinterestedly.

"I'm gonna go get us a room, ok? I'll be right back." He shifted the boy's head onto the seat, then exited the car, making sure to lock the doors behind him.

Once inside the hotel lobby, he strode briskly to the front desk, ringing the bell loudly. A cheerful, perky-looking young man quickly arrived, and Spike booked a room for him and Xander on the bottom floor. He paid the man, ignoring the not so subtle come-ons directed at him, then took his key cards, hurrying back out to the car.

Shortly, he'd gotten the car pulled pulled around the lot to park just outside their room. Using the card, he opened the door, then went back to retrieve his human. Xander was quickly carried inside and placed on the large bed, and Spike went out to retrieve his spoils from the trunk of the vehicle.

Leaving the majority of the stuff in an untidy heap by the door, he carried the duffel bag with him, unzipping it and rifling through its contents. He extracted the two orange bottles of pills, sighing as he rattled them quietly.

//Well, least we ain't gotta worry about these for a while. Good thing I managed to get Numm--Xan to take 'em before I went shopping// He felt around the duffel bag again, his hand closing around something smooth, which he pulled out.

//Fuck. Almost forgot...//

Spike set the pill bottles down on the bedside table, chewing his lip as he contemplated the innocuous little tube. He chanced a look at the boy curled up on the bed, then stared again at the tube clutched in his fist.

Steeling himself, he sat down next to Xander, reaching over to tap his shoulder lightly. Luminous brown eyes turned up to meet his, fairly screaming vulnerability. "Xan? The, uh, the doc gave me this medicine. To...put on you." He held up the tube.

Xander gave the tube a dispassionate glance, then sort of half-shrugged.

Spike cleared his throat. "It, um...it goes...it goes in-inside you."

The eyes became confused, then suddenly blossomed with terror. Spike could hear the human's heartbeat speed up, as harsh panting filled the room.

Cursing himself, Spike dropped the tube and reached out for the trembling boy, crooning softly. Gathering him close, he whispered assurances to the panic-stricken human. The words eventually died of into a rumbling purr, Spike's chest vibrating with the sound as he continued to gently stroke Xander's hair. "Luv, I don't wanna do anythin' you don't want, but the doc says we have to use the cream so you don't get an infection and get sick. I won't hurt you. Never wanna hurt you. Trust me pet, please?"

Residual tremors still raced through the pale form in his arms, but after long minutes, Xander gave a shaky nod. He then burrowed closer to the vampire, breath hitching a bit.

Spike gave a thankful sigh, then eased Xander onto his side. This earned him more shaking, and he let his hand lay still on Xander's hip, not moving, not threatening. When he felt some of the tension release, he began to move his hand in a circular pattern, doing his best to keep the motion calm and soothing.

Xander shuddered, then relaxed, melting back bonelessly. His eyes drifted shut as he let the feeling of being cherished wash over him. He drew in a quick breath when fingers slipped under the waistband of his sweatpants, tugging a little. Hesitantly, he lifted up enough for Spike to move the material down around his thighs, and he felt his cheeks heat up with shame as the hand brushed across his bottom. It didn't stay there, but moved down to push at his legs, coaxing them up until he lay in a fetal position.

Spike gulped, then reached for the tube again, twisting the cap off and breaking the little metal seal. He squirted a small amount out onto his index finger, then tossed the tub up to the head of the bed. Taking a deep breath, he parted Xander's nether cheeks, bringing the violated orifice into view. He hissed at the condition of the boy's anus, the flesh there raw and swollen. Pushing down a wave of rage, he reached his lubricated finger down to the hole.

Xander sucked in a sobbing breath as the cool digit touched him...there. He couldn't keep from beginning to tremble again as silent tears dripped down onto the bed.

//Damnit!// Spike could smell Xander's misery, and wished he didn't have to do this...not with the boy so fragile. But the only thing he could do was finish as quickly as possible to end the boy's torment. He pressed his finger into the abused flesh, wincing as he heard a soft, choked-off cry. Being as gentle as possible, he advanced into the tender opening, twisting his finger to search for the spot.

There. He growled softly as he felt the length of the tear, but changed it back to a soothing purr when he detected a rise in the scent of fear Xander was putting off. Taking care, he managed to get some the ointment spread along the length of the wound, then slipped his finger back out. Quickly, he pulled Xander's pants back up around his hips, the settled himself close behind him, not quite touching, but able to feel the body heat given off by the human.

Spike raised the intensity of his purring, once more taking a chance on stroking Xander's hair. Gradually, he felt the tremors ease, and eventually Xander drifted off into a light sleep.

Carefully, Spike crept out of the bed, recapping the tube and setting it down next to the pills. Taking care not to make much noise, he picked up the phone and dialed a number.

"Gr'thek? Spike here, mate. Look, got another prezzie for you." "No, I am *not* going into the business, it's a...special case." "Yeah." "Uh-huh." "Well, could you come get this one?" "Fine. I'm at the big hotel over by 5th and Main." "Yeah, that's the one." "Great. Oh, and could you do me a bit of a favor? My ride got a flat and I had to leave it. Could you get one of your mates to go with you, maybe change the tire and bring the car up here?" "Yeah, yeah, I'll owe you." He gave the location of his DeSoto, then added, "Oh, by the by, I left a minion, name of Thomas, watching it. Just tell 'im I sent you for it and he's free to go back to his fun." "Thanks, mate."

Spike hung up the phone. He checked on Xander, noting the barely perceptible shivering. Frowning at his thoughtlessness, he carefully moved the boy and pulled the covers down, tucking the boy under them. Xander murmured a little, then settled into a deeper sleep.

Spike looked at him, resisting the urge to begin petting him once more. Full of nervous energy, he began pacing the room, waiting for the Hk'mel demon to arrive.

*****
Part 16:

Spike's head jerked up, the knocking on the door wrenching him away from his contemplation of the sleeping human.

"'Bout bloody time," he muttered as he stalked over and jerked the door open. He raised an eyebrow at the blue-scaled demon. "Took you long enough, mate."

Gr'thek snorted. "Your 'Thomas' wouldn't stop his whining and it took me forever to...convince him that you sent me for the car. Kept whimpering about chains and sunlight." He rolled his eyes. "Fledglings."

"Yeah, tell me about it. Hey, be a pal an' help me bring in the stuff from the trunk."

Gr'thek nodded, following Spike back out to the DeSoto. Between them, they made short work of the assorted groceries that had been stored there hours before. Spike was glad he'd found a decent place to stay that came equipped with a mini-fridge to keep his blood. No microwave, but he'd figure something out.

Gr'thek looked around the room curiously, eyes lingering over the pile of goodies still heaped in the middle of the room before eventually settling on the restlessly sleeping figure in the bed. "So...that your human?"

Spike nodded tersely, quickly checking to make sure Xander wasn't waking up.

The demon frowned slightly, sniffing. "I thought you said you claimed him? He hasn't--"

"Hey, look. I'll do things my way, ok? Things are...hectic right now." He glared at Gr'thek until the demon shrugged, holding his hands up defensively.

"Just wondering, no need to get violent." He bent closer to Xander. "He smells like pain and fear." He glanced up at Spike. "What happened?"

Spike gently sat on the edge of the bed, brushing a lock of Xander's hair away from his face. He sighed. "His 'father' happened. And I can't fucking *do* anything to him!"

"You want I should get some of my boys together, arrange a little...accident?"

The vampire seriously considered this for a minute, but then shook his head. "I want the pleasure of killing him myself. He's *mine*. " He grinned. "Tell you what, though. You do what you can to make his life a living hell, just make sure you don't kill him."

Gr'thek responded with a toothy grin of his own. "Deal."

"The bastard's name and address should be on the papers in his car out there."

A low chuckle sounded. "That's *his* car? Spike, you...demon you!" Then he got serious, settling down to business. "It's a piece of junk, Spike. I'd be doing you a favor to take it for free."

"It's yours, mate. I don't want the damned thing." He pulled out a cigarette, about to light it when he glanced down at Xander again. Sighing, he merely rolled the cylinder between his fingers.

Gr'thek was shocked. His jaw gaped slightly as he stared unblinking at the blonde. He swallowed hard. "Um, Spike? You just...*gave* me the car."

"Yeah, so?"

"Woah. This is *really* affecting you if you aren't even trying to get a few buck out of me." He tilted his head to the side. "Are you sure you're all right?"

"Fine," he replied shortly. "Why wouldn't I be?" His hand again strayed to the human's head, sifting through the fine strands of hair.

Looking around the hotel room, Gr'thek hissed softly. "This is a pretty nice room, Spike. You got enough money to stay here?"

Spike gestured toward the pile of stuff. "Got some things in there I could hock for a few quid. We'll manage."

"If you're sure." He was about to say more when a muffled moan caught their attention. Spike shushed him with a waved hand, bending over the boy.

Xander's eyes popped open as he gasped loudly, frantically searching the room. When he saw Spike, he visibly relaxed, only to tense again once he noticed the other inhabitant of the room. He shrank back, his breathing becoming erratic.

Frowning, Spike edged closer to the human. "It's ok, Xan. He's a friend of mine. He won't do nothing to you." He slowly reached out a hand, and when Xander made no move to avoid it, gently brushed it along his arm. "What happened, luv? Bad dream?"

Xander nodded shakily, still glancing warily at Gr'thek. He curled up, wrapping his arms around his torso as he started rocking slightly, never moving his wide eyes from the other demon.

Spike got up, walking over to the Hk'mel. "Think you should go, mate. He don't seem to be too comfortable with you being here."

Gr'thek squinted at the vampire, then allowed a tiny grin to cross his face. Gesturing for Spike to follow him, he made his way over to the door. "You know what you're getting into with him? It won't be easy."

"Like that's ever stopped me."

"You should claim him, you know. Officially. He needs all the protection he can get."

"I will. When he's ready for it." Spike looked over his shoulder at Xander. "He's not exactly in the best of shape right now."

Nodding in agreement, Gr'thek continued. "You should tell him, too. About the claim. He might find it reassuring."

Spike shrugged. "Dunno 'bout that."

"Spike. As a friend, listen to me. Don't try to keep your claim a secret from him; it will only hurt you both when he eventually finds out."

The vampire's eyes flashed yellow for a brief second, then Spike let out a heavy sigh. "I know. And I *will*. Just...later."

Gr'thek examined him closely, finally grunting in acceptance. Turning, he started toward his newest acquisition.

"Gr'thek."

The soft call halted him, and he turned.

Spike shoved his hands into his pockets, staring at the ground crossly. Scuffling his feet, he lifted his head. "Thanks mate," he said quietly.

White teeth gleamed in the moonlight as Gr'thek grinned widely. "No problem, Spike. Just...don't let it get around, would you? Don't want my reputation shot to hell."

Spike smiled, watching as the demon got into the car and drove off. Closing the door, he crept back to the bed. "Xan?" He could tell by the human's breathing and heartbeat that he wasn't asleep, but his eyes were now screwed tightly shut.

The blonde thought a moment, then pulled back the covers and slid in behind the boy. Again a hand went out to pet warm skin, soothing the human, trying to banish the smell of fear that had abruptly returned. "He's gone now, pet. Just you and me. Go to sleep, Xan. I'll watch out for you."

Xander quivered, and Spike felt the tension leak out of him. He was surprised to feel the boy's body scoot back until it barely made contact with his own, but set his hand on Xander's hip. He chanced a brief, feather-light kiss to the nape of Xander's neck, resolutely ignoring the angry red bite mark that was so obvious there. Grateful that there was no negative reaction to his touch, he started purring again, hoping the sound would lull the battered human back to sleep.

Feeling oddly safe and protected, Xander barely noticed when his feigned slumber quickly became real as the comforting sound of purring surrounded him.

*****
Part 17:

Spike woke from a restless sleep, immediately checking on the boy in his arms. Xander was sleeping deeply, emitting the occasional snore. Spike gently drew himself away, slowly easing off the bed. He walked around to the other side, kneeling and staring intently at Xander's face. He smiled at the damp patch on the pillow, right under the human's mouth. Suppressing the urge to start stroking those dark locks of hair again, he stood abruptly, moving to the fridge where he'd stashed his supply of blood. Pulling out a packet, he drained it cold.

He tossed the baggie in the trash, the stood facing the covered windows, deep in thought. After an indeterminate amount of time, he heard small snuffling noises coming from the bed, and turned. He watched as Xander buried his head deeper in the damp pillow, then finally pried his eyes open. The boy peered blearily around the hotel room, brow wrinkled in confusion as he tried to get his bearings.

Xander's eyes flew wide when he finally noticed Spike, and a deep flush stained his cheeks. He stiffened uncomfortably, then whimpered softly as flashes of pain flared through him.

Instantly, Spike was by his side, pills and drink in hand. Xander took them gratefully, still not staring into the vampire's face.

Spike sighed. Cautiously, he reached out a hand, cupping it under Xander's chin and tugging the boy's face toward him. "Xan?"

Xander closed his eyes, refusing to make contact. His fingers plucked nervously at the covers, and his pulse was racing.

Spike could smell the embarrassment radiating off him, and he wasn't sure how to make it stop. Taking a chance, he slid onto the bed, coaxing Xander around so the boy's head was pillowed against his chest. "Xan, it's ok, there's nothin' to worry about. What is it?"

Xander shuddered, holding himself tense. He opened and shut his mouth a few times, unable to form words. Finally, he sniffled quietly. "I-I just...last night...and he...then you...I-I--" His breath caught, and he pressed his face into the soft fabric of Spike's shirt.

Spike tightened his hold just a bit, rocking a little as he curled around the warm body in his arms. "I'm not gonna let him near you again, luv. Not gonna let *any*one hurt you ever again. You're mine now, and chip or not, I'll fucking kill that bastard if I even smell him within a hundred yards of you. I'll have him turned if I have to, so I can get the satisfaction of torturin' him while he screams and begs for mercy; keep him in pain for *days* before I finally dust him." His voice was hissing by now, his eyes burning gold as he dreamed of the moment when he would exact revenge.

Xander listened to this impassioned speech in near-disbelief, his brain locked on one word. "Y-yours? Wha-what do you mean?" //Bad, bad, nobody wants me, so dirty, bad.// He shivered.

//Oh, bollocks.// Again, the oppressive scent of misery swirled around Spike, and he held back a snarl. //Damn it, I'm really starting to loathe that smell!// He made tiny 'shush'-ing noises as he kept on rocking, and collected his thoughts. //Well, fuck. I gotta tell him 'bout me claiming him.//

{He'll probably freak. Why would he even want to *be* mine when he just got away from *him*? What'll I do if he wants me gone?}

//It'll just be worse if I don't tell him.//

{But why now?}

//Because I said so, sod it all!//

{Aw, bloody hell!}

Spike sighed deeply. "Xanluv? Got somethin' to tell you."

Xander tilted his head up, finally looking at Spike, albeit with a great deal of trepidation. //Gonna make me leave, doesn't want me, *can't* want me. Dirty, so dirty, can't go back, please don't make me go back!// He could feel himself getting dizzy from lack of oxygen as his breath came in short little pants.

"Breath, Xander. Breath for me." Frowning slightly, Spike rubbed the boy's suddenly clammy arms, wondering what was wrong. "It's just, well the other night, you know, at the clinic?" He winced, realizing he was really not doing this with the greatest amount of tact. He decided to just spit it out and see where things went. "See, I kinda...claimed you. It's, uh, not...official, or anything, but word will probably get around, and it pretty much marks you as...mine." He trailed off in a whisper, hoping that Xander wouldn't take it too badly.

Xander sat in shock, completely stupefied. //Wants...*me*? His? Not leaving?// His brain whirled, trying to grasp the simple fact that someone actually *wanted* him enough to be...protective? Because Spike was. Protecting him. Keeping him away from his father...safe. But...

Spike was relieved when there was no outburst, and Xander's terror slowly faded. But there was still something wrong there... "Xan? What else? I know there's something else. Can you tell me?"

The brunette sniffled, burrowing deeper against Spike. He tried to shrug casually, but it was obvious the vampire wasn't buying it. With a sigh, he whispered, "Dirty."

//Huh?// "What?" Clearly confused, Spike sniffed at the human, not noticing anything overtly offensive to the senses about his condition.

Biting his lip, Xander made himself explain. "Dirty. I can...f-f-feel him. A-all over me. It...it won't go away. Why won't it go away?"

Spike felt like growling again, but figured that might give Xander the wrong idea. Instead, he settled for holding him a tight as possible given his injuries, and rocking some more. "I dunno. I could -- you want me to wash you?"

Xander hesitated, blushing, then gave a small, almost imperceptible, nod.

Swallowing, Spike nodded. "Ok. Stay here." He eased away from the boy and, grabbing the ice bucket, went into the bathroom. He filled the container with steaming water, adding just a touch of soap. Grabbing a bath sponge that was by the tub, he carried it, the bucket, and a couple of towels back to the bed.

"The...the sheets will get wet," Xander stated softly when he realized what Spike intended.

The vampire snorted. "Sod the sheets. We'll call for new ones." He shoved the blanket down to the foot of the bed, then gazed at the bruised human lying on the stark white bed. "Um, can I..." He waved a hand at Xander's clothes, absurdly grateful for the fact that he couldn't blush.

Xander had no such good fortune, and his body was suffused by an embarrassed flush. But he shrugged, remembering that Spike had already seen him totally naked that night in the shower-- He forced his thoughts away from that, and answered in what he hoped was a steady voice, "Um, yeah, sure."

With as much calm as he could make himself project, Spike set the bucket down on the stand by the bed, placing the sponge next to it. The towels were tossed to the foot of the bed. Willing his hands not to shake, he carefully removed Xander's shirt. Tossing it onto the floor, he contemplated the bindings around the human's chest, then proceeded to unwrap them very carefully, hiding a grimace as the violent, purpled mess was revealed.

Moving down, he hooked his fingers into the waistband of Xander's sweatpants, he pausing to look the boy in the eye.

Xander blinked a few times, then closed his eyes, lifting up a little.

Sighing, Spike slid the material down, making sure not to jostle the injured leg. Pants off, he gently lifted the wounded limb, using the softest of touches to remove the bandages there. Then he just sat for a moment, looking at the pale, mottled skin of the human he'd claimed.

Not wanting to make Xander any more nervous, he shook himself, reaching for the sponge. Dipping it into the warm water, he got it wet, then began dabbing at the brunette's face, carefully swiping it over every bit of skin. Down Xander's neck, where he paid special attention to the still-livid bite mark. After washing it thoroughly, he hesitated, then, kissing the tips of two fingers, brushed the fingers lightly over the wound.

Xander's eyes few back open, and he stared at the vampire, who smiled sheepishly, and continued on down to his chest. He watched, incredulous, as the soulless demon ever so gently washed his torso, then sent his kissed-fingers pattering over every bruise. The arms were next, and each injury, no matter how minor, was gingerly cleaned with the wet sponge, then brushed with fingers that were kissed before each touch.

Then the legs, with special care paid to the swollen knee. When those were done, Spike bit his lip, considering, then softly brushed the sponge across Xander's genitals, moving them about so he could get them fully washed.

Xander made no protest, just watched, amazed. He didn't even pause when Spike nudged his hip, just rolled compliantly onto his stomach. He closed his eyes as the soft sponge moved over his back, sending trickles of water cascading down his sides. The backs of his legs came next, and when Spike reached his feet, he managed not to pull away as the soles were tickled softly before being washed.

The only tense moment occurred when Spike moved up again, letting the sponge dance over Xander's buttocks. He could see the muscles in them clench, then relax as the boy let out a deep breath, trusting himself to the vampire's ministrations.

Spike first washed the pale mounds, then kissed all five fingers and laid them over the five finger-shaped bruises on Xander's left hip. He repeated the action on the right hip, trying to keep his motions non-threatening when all he wanted to do was go find Xander's bastard of a father and rip him into shreds for leaving those bruises.

Then, every sense fixed on the boy so he'd know if this was going too far, Spike swiped the sponge down Xander's cleft, darting into the shadowed area between the cheeks. Dropping the sponge to the bed, he carefully separated the boy's buttocks, then kissed his thumb, letting it rest softly on the bruised, reddened ring of muscle for a heart-stopping second.

Xander drew in a shaky breath, but made no movement to pull away.

//Never again, Xanluv. I swear that to you. No one *ever* hurts you again.// Smiling almost sadly, Spike picked up the sponge again and dropped it into the bucket. In total silence, he redressed Xander in clean clothes that he pulled out of the duffel bag, re-wrapping his knee and ribs. Finished, he carried the bucket back to the bathroom, where he emptied it into the sink. That done, he made his way back to the bed.

The sheets had survived without getting too wet, so he pulled the blanket back up, covering Xander again. Dark, chocolate eyes stared up at him, something akin to wonder glowing in them. "Better, pet?"

Giving the vampire a tremulous smile, Xander nodded. "Th-thank you, Spike," he said softly.

Spike grinned, smoothing out the boy's mussed hair. "Not a problem. You rest some more, I'll go get you some breakfast."

~~~~~~~~~~

As one, the Scooby gang -- minus Xander -- piled into Giles' car for the short ride over to Xander's house. The ex-Watcher had protested the need for such a turnout, but Willow's worry for her friend had infected Buffy to a smaller degree, and he'd been convinced to lend his vehicle to the cause.

When they reached Xander's house, Willow vaulted from the car, quickly making her way to the back of the house, where she knocked loudly on the door. She cast a frantic glance at Tara, then looked pleadingly at Buffy when the door refused her attempts to open it.

Rolling her eyes, Buffy shooed the others out of her way, then kicked out, sending the door crashing inwards. Bowing slightly, she gestured for Willow to enter.

The line of people made their way down the stairs, staring around the empty basement.

A gasp from Tara drew everyone's attention, and they followed the direction of her finger to a puddle of congealing blood on the floor.

"Oh, goddess," Willow breathed, then dashed into the bathroom, hoping to find Xander there. A low cry of disappointment informed the others that he was not. She came back out, stricken. "I don't understand. What could've happened?"

Buffy shook her head, glaring around the room. She opened her mouth to answer, but was cut off when the inside door to the basement creaked open, and a large figure holding a bat descended. They all gaped at the man, whose face was a collection of bruises.

"Who the hell are all of you? Get out of my house!" He waved the bat menacingly, drawing attention to the thin red lines crisscrossing his wrists.

"Pardon me, sir," Giles said, "but we're looking for a young man, Xander. Would he happen to be home?"

"Xander? Ha! Last I saw of him, he was waltzing out of here after he and that freaky blonde friend of his attacked me and robbed me blind!"

"I--what? Excuse me?"

"You heard me. Ransacked my hose, and stole my car, too! And I swear, that blonde guy was on something -- his eyes were all yellow, and he had this deformed face. Not that I got to see much of it before he was on me. If he hadn't caught me by surprise, there's no way he could have done so much damage." He glared. "And why am I even telling you this?"

"Woah, wait a second here. Weird blonde guy? And he attacked you?" Buffy stepped closer to the man."

"Fucking sucker punched me, the bastard, then tried to beat my head into the floor." He jerked his chin over at the blood the gang had noticed.

"Oh, good heavens," Giles breathed, looking faintly ill.

"Well, well, looks like somebody got his bite back," Buffy muttered darkly. Raising her voice, she continued sweetly, "Well, thank you for your time. We'll just be leaving now." She ushered everyone back up the stairs and out into the yard.

Willow looked back longingly. "But...Xander?"

"Don't worry, Willow, we'll find out what happened to him." She patted the other girl's shoulder comfortingly. "Spike, on the other hand" she snarled as they all climbed back into the car, "is dust."

*****