Reborn

Oxnard County Jail -- August 1999

Xander stared at the ceiling -- well because there was nothing else to stare at. He hadn't known the strip club was committing "illegal illicit" acts. But no matter how much he protested his innocence, he'd been lumped with the rest of the offenders. He couldn't believe he was spending his summer incarcerated. But that's what it looked like he'd be doing. He had called home once -- not sure why. Maybe just for his daily dose of humiliation. Only to have his father tell him he was just where he had been sure Xander would end up.

Actually what he said was, "No better place for a little shit like you. Your stuff'll be in the garage when you get out and I'm charging you storage." then click.

He tried Willow, Giles, Oz, and as a last resort Buffy. He'd gotten nothing. Nada. Zip. He snorted. He hadn't really expected anything. Hell... they hadn't even bothered to see him off.

He'd been in jail about two months. At first he'd tried to bury the rage as he'd done his entire life. Except it would ambush him at odd moments. The pain would flood in making him ache deep in his soul. Soon though, the pain became bitterness.

He'd given them his all. They'd taken it then tossed him aside like... everyone he'd ever cared for. Before long the bitterness turned into a black rage. Initially, he'd been scared of that rage. Especially after it manifested the first time, in an explosion of pain.

It no longer bothered him. Sighing, he curled around Nicholas hugging him close as he drifted off.

Cell Block A -- June 1999

He'd been incarcerated less than a month when everything changed.

After grabbing the day's lunch, Xander settled in the furthest corner of the jail's dining area. He stared miserably at the indiscernible mass before him -- Oxnard's answer to Mulligan stew. So wrapped up in memories he failed to notice the tears streaming down his face. However, Brick and his crew noticed. They'd been noticing Xander for the past two weeks.

Brick, like his name, was roughly rectangular in shape. A solid mass of muscles on tree-trunk legs. Red hair buzzed close revealed the scars from numerous run-ins with police batons.

On the other hand, Rat bore absolutely no resemblance to his namesake. His Nordic blond hair and blue eyes gleamed movie star gorgeous from a face only enhanced by the scar angled along his lower jaw. Blade looked like Rat should of -- scrawny, short with eyes as black and dead as any rodents. The three of them were permanent fixtures in the penal system.

Brick glanced at the guards as Blade scurried back to their table -- they were otherwise occupied. He stood heading towards Xander's corner, followed by Rat and Blade. Brick settled into the seat beside Xander, "What's the matter, Baby. Miss mummy?"

Xander jumped. He hadn't even noticed the three surrounding him. Trying to ease away, Xander shook his head. "Nope, just the toxic fumes from the stew." He grinned, then tried to stand.

Brick moved quickly, snatching Xander by his neck. He slammed him back into the chair, "Crying like a bitch, just proves to us you are one. And I just so happen to be in the market for a new bitch."

Xander chuckled nervously, "Umm...sorry not really looking for a new job yet. Last one ended badly, hence my being here."

Brick's fingers tightened around Xander's throat, "I'm not asking, you little shit. Loser like you'll take it and like it."

Later, Xander could never figure out whether it was the little shit or the loser that set him off. The next few minutes were forever lost to him as a wave of unadulterated rage roared through him. His tenuous hold on morality was swept aside. His entire being lost in a black cloud of berserker madness.

Reality returned in a stunning crash. The four guards trying desperately to stop Xander from ramming the rest of the lunch tray down Brick's throat were suddenly holding a docile Xander. Who stood staring at his hands as if he'd never seen them before. He walked quietly with the guards to the infirmary --to his surprise-- and not solitary.

I couldn't believe what I was seeing. The last thing I remember was being called a loser and a little shit -- for the millionth time. The words kept repeating louder and louder, an incessant mantra. I just wanted them to stop. Every moral belief I pretended to hold vanished. All I wanted was to make someone... anyone... hurt more than me. Then suddenly I felt hands pulling at me. I looked down. Brick's eyes had rolled back in his head, his mouth a grim rictus of pain, the steel of the lunch tray painted red with blood -- for an instant I felt an urge to ram it in harder. I dropped the tray with a shudder, staring around bewildered. Rat lay unconscious, a huge black bruise was developing at his temple. Blade was conscious but he lay whimpering a spoon was rammed through his left shoulder pinning him to the floor. Something in me howled in glee and triumph, my enemies lay before me broken. I had a sudden urge to tear out their throats. I backed up shaking. No! I wouldn't. I wasn't. I don't what to be like this! I won't...

The doctor pronounced Xander mentally stable, however he suggested it would be best if he wasn't agitated. The guards looked at each other, "Not gonna happen again, Doc. No one's gonna fuck with him after this."

Xander stood pacifically not really listening to the conversation; locked in an internal struggle for control. He'd always known he was capable of any number of atrocities that would rival Angelus at his worst. But he'd always found a way to suppress or channel that savagery. Xander argued with himself. He'd denied his difference for so long that he'd forgotten how to control it on his own. He hadn't had to in a long time.

He walked silently behind as the guards lead him to his cell. He settled back against the top bunk. He was scared shit-less. He'd used first Willow then the gang as moral restraints --a type of guide-- for so long he'd forgotten how to act without them. He knew what he was, he even knew why he was. Shortly after they'd started high school, he'd found himself searching the library. He'd been feeling particularly viscous for a couple of weeks and he'd been having a hard time controlling it -- well harder than usual. He'd found exactly what he needed.

He was a borderline sociopath, almost completely amoral. Which surprisingly enough had nothing to do with his violent tendencies-- those were courtesy of genetics and dear old dad. He figured he'd only get worse, so he'd fixed on Willow as his moral compass. Xander snorted as he stared at the wall.

Fat lot of good that did.

His friends had decided he was useless. Now he was alone. He'd have to find a way to deal or he'd spiral out of control. Xander sighed. Things were so much easier when he could just follow blindly. No confusing issues of right or wrong. Only what Willow, Buffy, or Giles said do. Xander fell into a restless sleep.

Cell Block A -- Early August 1999

Xander slunk quietly through the common room. He'd grabbed a couple of books from the prison library (read box of books) and only wanted to be left alone. Which was perfect, seeing as that was all the other inmates wanted, well except one.

Nicholas watched the dark-haired man leave again. He'd heard all about him less than an hour after he'd been assigned a cell. His cell-mate Mark said he was called the dark angel. He'd asked why and gotten a detailed explanation.

The dark-haired man had been arrested a couple of months ago during a raid of the local strip club. Unable to contact anyone or get a decent lawyer; he'd been sentenced to three months in the county jail. He'd looked like any other fresh meat, actually even more victim-like.

Brick and his crew had pretty much claimed him as their new bitch. No one questioned the claim. Brick was dangerous a repeat offender in twice for murder one, which had been plea-bargained to manslaughter. He had a good -- is there even such a thing -- lawyer. Rat was different. He didn't look like his namesake but apparently he liked to bite like one. At least that's what it looked like he'd done to the bodies of his victims. And Blade, any sharp edge would do. They had pretty much run cell-block A And B until Xander.

Nicholas shuddered as he watched the quiet man reading. Mark said one minute he'd been sitting still looking miserable, then he was nothing but a blur of violence and motion. There had only been three more incidents since then. The second was pretty much like the first -- a sudden violent reaction.

Mark had paused shuddering. " The last two were the worst. Before it was like he was unaware of what he was doing, but the last two. His eyes they were.... He smiled as if he was meeting Halle Berry or something. All the while he's got this guy pinned to the wall crushing his groin. The guards came running and he dropped him."

Mark's face had twisted into a look of abject horror. He really hadn't wanted to know but Mark finished. "He stood back then licked the blood off his fingers. He'd enjoyed it. His eyes glittered. They were... it was...." Mark had shuddered again, then walked off.

That had been a week ago. Nicholas had been watching Xander ever since. He'd never been to jail before. He'd always managed to get out of it or his brother would rescue him. But this time he'd gotten caught and he couldn't reach his brother. He knew what was going to happen but he was determined it'd happen on his terms.

Slowly he approached the dark-haired man's cell; Xander looked up. Nicholas froze the dark gaze held him captive. Something wild glittered behind that gaze -- an animal mentality that frightened and aroused him. Nicholas stepped forward slowly hands out, "C-could I talk to you? P-please?"

Xander's eyes matched his every move. Prey. He nodded. Nicholas edged into the cell. Xander lay sprawled across an old beanbag chair-- one of the guards had given him.

Nicholas was less than a foot from him when he dropped to his knees. He crawled forward head down. "Please...make me your bitch."

Xander's eyes flew open in shock; he hadn't figured on something like this even if he was different, now. Xander studied the man while he thought. He knew he'd changed since being in jail. He'd given up fighting his nature. The quiet misery he lived in only seemed to attract trouble. After the second fight, he'd decided to embrace who he was.

The next morning he'd awoke feeling more complete than he had in a while. He wasn't completely sociopathic-- the hyena and soldier's instincts saw to that. He knew right from wrong; he just didn't give a damn. Now, he simply did what instinct said. And if all else failed what felt good.

Nicholas looked up to find Xander staring at him with a puzzled gaze. He smiled inwardly. Nicholas knew he'd made the right choice. He was sure Xander wasn't inherently cruel or evil -- just volatile. He was certain if hhe pleased him; Xander wouldn't hurt him or let anyone else hurt him. Nicholas inched forward, under Xander's watchful gaze. His eyes locked with Xander's briefly, then he dropped them to the groin before him. He smiled softly. Xander might not know what to think but his body did.

Xander watched as the man reached forward an unzipped his pants. His cock hard from the minute the man had dropped to his knees sprang up. He couldn't believe some stranger was getting ready to give him a blow-job all in the hopes of belonging to him. Xander shivered. It made something in him howl in pleasure. He caught the young man's head as it began to descend. He held him by the chin staring into sky blue eyes, "What's your name?"

Nicholas stared up at Xander, "Nicholas... Nicholas McDonald." Xander nodded slightly, "Xander Harris." Nicholas grinned then slowly bent forward.

Nick tugged at the jeans, until they settled around Xander's thighs. He stopped staring up at Xander. His tongue darted out licking at his full bottom lip. "Please... can I..."

Xander shuddered as the warmth of his breath caressed his growing erection. Unable to speak he nodded. Keeping his eyes locked on the dark ones -- Nick lapped at the swollen head. Coating his tongue with Xander's pre-cum. Smiling slightly he swallowed the head, dropping his gaze to the task ahead.

He pulled back, letting the straining flesh fall from his mouth, slowly he began to lick the hard cock. His agile tongue stroking the length, bathing it in his saliva. He darted down to nuzzle the full sac-- breathing in the warm musky scent. He worried them lightly, nipping and tugging at his balls. Nick pressed his tongue firmly, insistently against the solid flesh, dragging it up to the head. Then pushing into the slit, sucking... swiping up every bit of Xander's flowing pre-cum.

Xander thrust against his tongue, trying to bury himself inside the wet warmth. Nick pulled back, and watched him.

His eyes were closed. Head thrown back-- hands gripping the sides of the chair, knuckles white with pressure. His dick full, hard the head weeping a steady stream of pre-cum.

Nicholas moaned at the sight, his own cock straining against his clothes. He never imagined it would feel so good-- just pleasing Xander. But something inside him responded to the heat in the other man's gaze-- the darkness within. Groaning he dove back in; tongue finding the entrance to Xander's virgin hole.

Xander bit back a growl as Nick's tongue rimmed the tight ring. Nick thrust his tongue into the channel, reveling in the spicy taste of Xander's body. Xander jerked beneath Nicholas talented stroking. Almost whimpering Xander reached, grabbing Nick's head pulling him toward his engorged member.

After on last lick, he swallowed him taking his penis all the way in. Working his throat muscles, he took short panting breaths as Xander moved in and out. Growling Xander's fingers clutched his head, holding him still as he began to fuck his mouth roughly. Nick whimpered around the cock pounding into his throat, his own dick leaking cum.

Xander's thighs tightened around him nearly crushing his ribs as he threw his head back biting his lip to muffle his screams of pleasure. He shuddered as Xander's cum flooded his throat; he sucked greedily trying to catch it all. Xander collapsed onto the chair as Nick cleaned him. He eagerly tongued every inch of the spent cock, nuzzling the folds to find every bit of cum.

Xander slowly focused on Nick, who'd made no move to find his own release. Instead he continued to concentrate on him, as if pleasing him was pleasure enough. Xander groaned pulling Nick's mouth away from his rapidly hardening dick. He stared at the man before him-- crouched between his thighs.

Nick's eyes were half-closed, mouth wet...slick, a strand of semen lay in the corner of his mouth. He watched as Nick's tongue swept out to catch it.

Nicholas stared back at Xander. He couldn't explain what had come over him. His simple plan had vanished. Replaced by the sight...the scent of the man before him. He was confused, overwhelmed by the dark-haired man's presence. All he wanted was to please his master.

He blinked slowly drowning in the chocolate gaze; knowing he belonged to this strange dark-eyed young man. "Did I please you...," whispered Nicholas biting back on the urge to say master.

Xander nodded shakily, he'd never felt anything like it. He couldn't believe a man had given him his first blow-job but then a slayer had taken his virginity. He looked down at Nick who was curled up between his legs, his head resting against his thigh.

Finally he spoke, "I'm not sure how this is supposed to work, but you keep doing things like that and..." Xander paused, fighting the urge to snicker. "You can be my bitch." Nicholas sighed in relief, hesitantly rubbing himself against Xander. "Is there something I need to..."

Nicholas seized the opening, "Yes. Fuck me... claim me... mark me as yours," he practically mewled.

Xander's eyes narrowed darkly, everything in him cried out to throw the younger man to the floor and fuck him raw. But thoughts of Brick and his crew danced across his mind. The solider in him objected to taking advantage while the hyena had no wish to hurt the cub. He glanced down at the man before him, "Listen that was fine. You don't have --"

Nick shook his head, cutting him off. "No. I want..." dropping his head, he said softly, "I need you to... I want you to fuck me. I- I want... need you in me making me cum."

Something in Xander howled in pleasure, at the sheer need in his voice. He'd never had someone want... need him like this. He bit back a growl as he yanked Nicholas to his feet.

Pulling him close he caught the swollen mouth in a bruising kiss. He thrust his tongue in deep; stroking... toying... possessing his mouth. Pushing him away, Xander reached out grabbing the mattress from the bunk -- tossing it to the floor. "Down," he barked, barely giving Nick time to strip. Nick moaned twisting around until he was on all fours.

He paused staring at the pale length of flesh before him, trailing his fingers down the curve of his spine. Nick shuddered feeling the hard cock enter him, he whimpered as the dark-haired man slowly thrust in and out. Xander moaned at the tight heat of Nicholas's body, which was driving him mad. Muscles clenching around his rigid penis, made him shudder in pleasure. He wanted to stay in this warm haven forever.

Nicholas squirmed. Xander's slow movements tormenting him. He wanted his master to fuck him hard. Possess. Claim. Own him. Nick was unsure were the thoughts were coming from but as Xander thrust harder he knew that they were true. Whimpering he pushed back onto Xander's dick, eager for his lover.

Xander moaned as Nick moved against him. He wanted to go slow to explore every sensation of this new experience but his body was screaming for him to fuck Nicholas -- hard. Growling he slammed into the body of his lover; nearly pinning him to the floor. Before wrapping one long muscular arm around his waist pulling him against his chest, and ramming deep into the warmth beneath him. Ragged panting filled the cell as he tugged at Nick's cock.

Nicholas' harsh moans became a low wail as pleasure coursed through his body. Xander howled as Nicholas came, his muscles locking Xander in, squeezing him tightly. Nicholas keened, twisting beneath Xander as the pleasure overwhelmed him. He gasped dropping forward unable to support himself.

Xander growled deep in his throat when Nick came, thrust one last time burying himself in his ass, before coming on a tidal wave of pleasure. With a moan he leaned forward, burying his teeth into Nick's throat as his cum filled the stretched channel.

Xander collapsed on Nick; pinning the smaller man to the mattress. He whimpered but didn't protest-- he didn't want to lose the feeling of Xander deep inside him. They slept the evening away, only waking when the guards called for lights out at lock down. Xander stood stretching, he'd never felt so good.

He grinned shyly at Nick as he climbed to his knees. Nick grinned back. "So... umm... what do I do now? Not too up on my prison etiquette." Nick laughed then crawling forward nuzzled his face into Xander's groin. He licked slowly, cleaning the cum-stained cock.

Xander groaned unable to decide whether he wanted to lean forward or away. When Nick deep-throated him, he decided to stay exactly where he was. Nicholas sucked gently cleaning the hardening penis then giving it a final lick he backed off. He grinned up at Xander "This has got to be a first. The bitch telling his owner what to do. It's simple. I'm yours. Kinda like a puppy. You take care of me, protect me etc. I take care of you. Make you... happy and stuff," he said, brushing his fingers across Xander's crotch.

Xander smirked, "I can do that. I guess the first thing we should do is get you moved in here."

Nicholas blinked, "You can do that?"

Xander nodded. "The doctor here took a liking to me. Don't know why. Told the guards that while I was mentally stable, I had a condition that shouldn't be aggravated. Anyway the guards in order to keep me calm or calm me down let me have certain privileges. I don't ask them for it, but after," Xander paused smirking. "An incident things generally appear."

Nick could see the logic in it. He couldn't believe it, but he could see it. Xander stilled, turning towards the cell door-- tossing Nick his clothes. Nick didn't understand at first, then he heard the guards checking the cells. Xander straightened up before dropping back onto the chair. He grinned goofily as Matt and Bryan appeared.

"Hey, Xander missed you at dinner. I can see you were busy," Matt said, leering at Nick-- who sat curled up at his feet.

Xander nodded slightly, "Look, I was wondering if you could switch his cell and make us cell mates."

Bryan looked uneasy. "I don't know, Xan. The warden said it would be best if you were left alone. Especially after your last roommate..."

Xander pouted, "Wasn't my fault. He kept fucking with me and when he tried to... I just... Well, I don't really remember. But this time is different. Bryan, that won't happen. I promise."

Xander grinned so innocently, Bryan couldn't help grinning back. "Ok, Xan. We'll move him in tomorrow." Xander smiled, pulling Nick closer.

Oxnard's Visiting Area -- Early September 1999

Nicholas stared at his brother through the glass partition. He knew he was pissed. "How was I supposed to know the guy's brother was a cop?"

His brother frowned, "Everyone in these backwoods is related, Nick. How could you...never mind. You'll be out by tomorrow night."

Nicholas had to bite back a grin. He knew Lindsey would get him out. Waving goodbye he hurried back to their cell.

Nick stopped abruptly outside the cell watching Xander as he finished his pushups. He shook his head slowly. If someone had told him he'd actually be reluctant to leave the slammer, he'd have thought they were nuts. But looking at Xander he felt... shit he didn't know how he felt. He just didn't want to leave the man.

Sighing, he stepped into their cell. After one last push Xander stood up; not bothering to wipe away the sweat that rolled down his body he swept Nicholas into a heated kiss. Nick responded eagerly, reveling in Xander's taste. He sighed when Xander pulled away. "So, how'd it go kid? What'ja your brother say?"

"I'll be outta here by tomorrow night." Xander watched Nicholas as he paced. "You don't sound to happy, Pet."

Nicholas stared at him, "Can't be. Wanna get out but I wanna stay with you."

Xander smiled softly, then pulled Nick into his arms," I'll be outta here in a week, Nick. It's not like you're leaving me to rot. Not like.... Anyway my three months are about up--"

Nick cut him off, trying not to sound desperate, "Are you gonna go home? I thought maybe... you could stay with me. I mean we could...."

Xander smiled sadly as Nick's voice trailed off. "Nick, I like you a lot but I don't love... well I do. I'm just not in love with you. I couldn't take advantage of your feelings and--"

"But you wouldn't. You care about me. Which is more than I can say for some of the relationships I've been in. Please, I just wanna be with you...."

Xander stared-- stunned by the sincerity and longing shining in Nick's eyes. "O.K. Nick. I can give it a try. I wasn't going back home anyway. Too much shit to deal with back there."

Nicholas bit back a whoop of joy, but couldn't help grinning madly. He wrapped his arms around Xander delighted to have a future with him. Xander growled feeling Nick pressed against him. "Bed. Now."

Nick laughed then stripped. They'd have to make this good, they'd be apart a whole week.

Los Angeles -- Lindsey's Apartment

Nicholas paced up and down the living room. "Lindsey, you have to hire him."

"Why, Nick?" Lindsey asked as he leaned against the counter.

"Cause he's unbelievable," cried Nick.

"Wolfram and Hart, generally don't hire people on the basis of their ability to fuck."

Nick turned glaring at his older brother. "That's not what I'm talking about though...." Nick grinned wickedly, "But that's beside the point. He's smart, Lin. Really smart. He's a great fighter. Plus there's just something about him. I can't explain it. Just promise me you'll meet with him. You'll see then you'll begging to hire him."

Lindsey sighed. His kid brother was so easily impressed. Hell, I impress the kid. Still Nick was the only member of his family he still saw. "Sure, Nick. I'll see him. Where will he be staying?"

Nick grinned sheepishly, "Here? I mean, I wanted him to stay with me; I convinced him not to leave before I remembered I don't have a place to stay."

Lindsey sighed, he didn't want some common criminal in his apartment, but he couldn't disappoint the kid. "All right, but if anything--"

"He's not some common thief, Lin. He gotta raw deal. First time offense and he got three months. Shitty deal. He wasn't even guilty."

Lindsey shook his head at his brothers naiveté. Prisons were filled with innocent men.

Oxnard County Jail -- A week later

Matt and Bryan walked beside the dark-haired man for the last time. "You behave yourself out there now," said Matt as they unlocked the front-gate. "Don't want to see you back here, no time soon."

Xander laughed. "You won't be seeing me again, not if I can help it. Any words of wisdom, Bry?" said Xander turning towards the other guard. He stopped staring as Bryan's green-gray eyes turned silver.

"No longer who you once were. Path's new and old open before you. The choice is yours but either way leads to blood and pain. Should you falter. Be careful, young one."

Xander stared into the glowing silver eyes; his hackles raising. "Oookay."

"Bryan enough with the psychic shit. All right! You’re freaking the kid out."

Bryan shook himself, "Sorry bout that kid. Glad to see you get out. Ditto on the not seeing you again."

"Don't wanna be seen," said Xander.

Matt looked around the parking lot, "Do you...."

Just then a limousine pulled into the lot. Xander watched as it glided closer. "Guess, that's my ride. Bye guys."

Xander strode towards the limo without a backward glance. He was free and he intended to stay that way come what may. As he drew closer, the door swung open. Xander leaned closer sniffing the air. No gun oil, no magic. Relatively safe.

He climbed into the car after tossing his bag inside. He'd barely gotten in when a warm eager body launched itself at him. Xander opened his arms, instinctively as Nicholas crawled into his lap. He'd missed the cub. His head snapped around at the sound of shifting against the leather seats. He focused on the man sitting across from them.

Piercing blue eyes stared at him unflinching. He was short, like Nick, and there was no doubt about it they were brothers. But Xander knew the physical resemblance was all that the brothers shared.

Despite Nick's penchant for trouble he was still a relatively good kid. This man was just that a man. And a dangerous one, he thought. Not for any particular reason though. Xander could just sense the willingness to do anything and everything to get what he wanted. He grinned; he could understand that ruthlessness.

Lindsey watched as his brother embraced the dark-eyed man. He shifted slightly at the evidence of their intimacy. Suddenly the dark gaze was locked on him as if he'd heard even that small movement.

Lindsey stared into that dark look, and could feel himself falling. His heartbeat picked up, and he started breathing heavier. Something in those eyes called to him. He wondered what he was thinking. Would he take me like Nick or....

Lindsey shook himself angrily. What the hell! Damnit this was... unacceptable.

He couldn't understand what had just come over him. He snarled softly unable to figure out why he'd reacted that way. He watched as Xander grinned at his snarl. He looked amused.

He needs to learn who's in control here.

"Do you know who I am," he said harshly.

Xander smirked; he could smell the other man's arousal and anger. "Yeah, Nicks brother the lawyer."

Lindsey hated that smirk. He wanted Xander to understand who was in charge. "No, Mr. Harris. I am the man who holds your future in his hands. I am your god. You are nothing and no one. And that's what you'll remain with out me. You owe me--"

The sound of choking filled the cabin of the limousine. Before Lindsey could even blink, Xander had pinned him to the seat. One hand holding him still the other wrapped around his throat. Xander perched above him staring at him with those eyes.

Except now they're different. Dizzy from the lack of oxygen he couldn't tell at first what changed. Then he could see it staring back at him.

Alien thoughts drift behind them-- causing shadows to dance across the irises as if they were living things. Something dark and vicious prowled within them.

Lindsey shuddered, he could see his death in his eyes. He struggled uselessly, trying to break the inhumanly strong grip. He tore in vain at the fingers grasping his throat. Unable to keep staring into Xander's eyes, he turned his head. His gaze fell on his brother, who sat huddled in the corner of the limo. Staring into the tear-filled eyes, he knew he'd get no help from him. Uselessly he fought, but he couldn't give up he'd never quit and he wasn't about to start now.

Xander stared down at the struggling body beneath him. He understood the blue-eyed man's instinct to dominant but he wasn't about to let anyone do that ever again. He kept up the jovial mask because it suited him and because it was a good cover. Let others underestimate him, it cost them in the long run.

But now it was time to show Mr. McDonald exactly who was in control here. He glanced over at Nick--huddled in the corner. Good. The cub knows what needs to be done.

When the man beneath him began to turn blue, Xander eased his grip. He must learn who is predator and who is prey.

"I owe you shit. I control everything that concerns me. You are a pissant little minion for a bloodsucking law firm. I don't give a fuck about. My future is what I choose to make of it. Do you understand?"

Lindsey nodded weakly but eagerly, glad to still be breathing. Xander released him, settling into the seat after pulling Nick back onto his lap. Lindsey lay still gasping in air before slowly sitting up.

He watched amazed as Xander soothed his brother. Gone was the darkness. Nothing but a quiet caring radiated from the man. Gone was the aura of violence and barely contained savagery. Instead there remained only a gentle, sweet young man. Lindsey shuddered, he'd never seen such a total reversal of behavior.

The mask was perfect. No one would believe he was capable of that unless they'd seen him. He flinched when Xander's eyes focused on his again.

"You are alive -- not because I fear your bosses or the law-- because it would upset Pet if I killed you. That doesn't mean I won't. It just means I'll avoid it if I can. But that won't stop me from beating the hell outta you if you fuck with me," growled Xander as he stroked Nick's hair.

Lindsey nodded quickly. He understood. He'd just received his first and only warning. He reached into the mini bar grabbing the bottle of JD and pulling out several glasses. Xander shook his head as did Nick following Xander's lead. Shrugging Lindsey tossed back a fifth of the whiskey--trying to still the shaking. The partners were just going to love him.

Law Offices of Wolfram and Hart -- October 2000

Xander leaned, unconcerned on the conference table. Everyone else sat rigidly or pensively shuffled papers as they waited for the junior partner to arrive. Watching the nervous antics of his fellow colleagues, he couldn't help smirking.

All ass-kissing and vying for the chance to gain favor with the bosses. He could no longer relate to that need. Couldn't be bothered to go through all that trouble. Feeling the lingering gazes, he glanced up staring around the room. As soon as he lifted his gaze, everyone's eyes moved elsewhere. He grinned showing long, sharp white canines. He knew they not only hated him but feared him as well. He'd been at Wolfram and Hart only a year but the partners were all about him.

Those present today resented his status in the firm. Xander shrugged mentally; he could careless. He shifted tired, wondering what the hold up was, wanting to go home. He'd just gotten back to the states that morning. He'd dropped Nick off at their apartment-- heading straight to the main office, without stopping. Stretching his jet-lagged body, he'd give them five more minutes then he was outta here. Lounging back he watched his co-workers amused. He sat up as the door swung open a familiar scent filled his nostrils. Lindsey.

He stood moving swiftly to the door. He could feel their eyes on him. Ignoring them, he waited almost impatiently. Xander's eyes widened when he saw Lindsey. He looked harder, tougher, even more jaded. And most importantly his hand was gone. Xander grabbed Lindsey, dismissing the shocked gasps. "Lin. What happened?"

Lindsey stared at him; eyes hard and cold for an instant. Then he moved into Xander's embrace. The grumbling from the room’s occupants grew and was ignored. Shreck, senior junior partner, coughed politely. "That's what we're here to discuss. Could we get started?"

Tugging Lindsey with him, Xander moved back to his seat. When Lindsey went to sit beside him, he shook his head and pulled him onto his lap. "O.k. You guys called me here. Right off a job. Now, Lins' here and he's hurt. What's going on?"

Shreck watched the dark-haired man protectively cuddling McDonald. He'd known this was going to be difficult. Ever since he'd heard about what happened to the kid. He'd been dreading the Dark angel's reaction. Sighing he began the debriefing. "As all of you know except Xander, there's a new player in town. A vampire who abides by his own code. He's managed to destroy several of our projects. He interferes constantly. We have tried on several occasions to rid ourselves of this creature however nothing has worked. Our latest attempt; involved the return of his sire and resulted in the loss of Mr. McDonald's hand."

Xander peered over Lindsey's head, "What exactly did you hope to accomplish? Why not just kill him?"

Shreck bit back a snarl, "Don't you think we've tried? We even hired a slayer but that went wrong."

For a brief second a myriad of emotions fled across Xander's face, "A slayer?"

Lindsey shifted in his arms turning to face him, "Yeah. They're born to kill vampires but this one wasn't too all there. So, we figured we could use her. But she turned on us and helped the bastard."

Xander was silent then, "Was her name Buffy?"

Lindsey shook his head, "No, it was Faith. Why?"

Xander paused then shrugged, "Nothing. What went wrong?"

"Turns out she knew him from before, in some town called Sunnydale. Instead of killing him, he's helping her reform."

Xander's eyes locked with Shreck. "What's Darla got to do with this, and Lindsey?"

Shreck gestured for Lindsey to continue.

"After the slayer failed, we decided on more desperate measures. In an attempt to shake him up we resurrected his sire but it didn't work. He just staked her again, then tossed her ashes into the sea for good measure. As for my hand," Lindsey paused taking a shaky breath. "He cut it off, when I tried to burn a scroll that would help his friends."

Suddenly, Shreck turned puzzled, "How did you know the sire's name was Darla?"

Xander smiled slyly, "Old news. Nothing to do with the now. And that brings us to why I'm here."

Shreck nodded, "As you heard our attempts have failed. The senior partners-- Long may they exist, are in the middle of a very important deal. Nothing can be allowed to interfere. Nothing. That's why you've been called home. They want you to handle this vampire... this Angel. Understood?"

Nodding Xander stood still holding Lindsey. "Quite. I'll start as soon as I'm settled in. About a week should do. If there's nothing else." he paused glancing around the room. "I'll be going."

Silence reigned for several minutes after he left. Then an explosion of voices. "Where the hell does he get off..." "Why does..." "He can't..." Then...

"Silence," Shreck's voice echoed with the authority it had been missing in Xander's presence. "He is the only way this is going to work. If this fails then we are finished. Despite your wishes-- he is currently at the head of the food chain around here. And Wolfram and Hart's favorite at the moment. So, just deal." Finishing his say Shreck left the discontent assembly.

Los Angeles -- Xander's Apartment

Black sheets pooled around the tangle of male limbs. The body in the center longer, harder, heavier muscled than the two flanking him. The eldest of the three woke-- feeling better than he had all year. He stretched languidly. Glancing over at his lovers, seeing they were still asleep he decided to make breakfast. Or is it lunch?

Shrugging, Lindsey slipped into the silk pajama bottoms he'd picked up off the floor. He really didn't care when it was as long as he got something to eat. Moving through the kitchen he gathered stuff for breakfast. Balancing the items, he turned to the stove, familiar with every inch of the apartment.

He stopped, frozen for an instant staring at the eggs in his hand as if they were alien life forms. His brain still adjusting to the changes the dark-eyed man had brought into his life. Then he laughed. Who'd have thought he'd be domesticated. No, tamed is more like it.

Tossing the vegetables into the skillet with the eggs, he smirked. He wouldn't have it any other way, he enjoyed loved belonging to Xander. As he cooked, he remembered it hadn't always been that way.

Lindsey's Apartment -- September 1999

Uneasy, Lindsey watched the dark-haired man as he surveyed his apartment. Lindsey fought the urge to ask whether his highness approved. Xander turned amused by the elder man's anger. "Where do Nick and I crash?"

Lindsey looked shocked. "You mean I actually get a say in my own apartment," he said sarcastically.

"Look, I don't have any problem with you as long as you don't have any with me. So, cut the shit. Point us to our room and we'll be gone."

Sighing that's exactly what Lindsey did. "Fine. Don't forget your appointments this weekend," he said, before leaving the two of them to their own devices.

Looking around the richly decorated office, Lindsey shifted nervously. He'd never been in one of the partner's offices before, not even a junior one. As minutes passed without anyone arriving, Lindsey grew more worried. Then the door arrived admitting the senior junior partner, Legi.

"So, Mr. McDonald you've brought the company a very interesting prospective employee."

Lindsey bit back a denial, "Well, sir. I don't know...."

"Don't be overly modest boy, you've done well. The partners are pleased with this new acquisition."

Xander stood quietly, until the lawyer finished speaking. "You want to hire me fine, but speak to me. I'm not some new toy McDonald's bought to share. And despite your offer I'm not sure I'll be accepting."

Legi stared at Xander, surprise etched into the previously smug face. "Of course, you'll accept our offer and be grateful for it."

Lindsey shook his head, stepping back. Here it comes.

Xander's eyes narrowed. "I'll what?," he said softly.

Legi stalked forward, stabbing his finger into Xander's chest. "You are no one. Wolfram and Hart are taking you in. It is an honor, you will graciously accept. Or... well, let's just say we don't take rejection well." Legi smiled unpleasantly, showing fangs.

Xander's head dropped as if cowed.

Lindsey swore vehemently. He'd worked so hard for this position. Now, it was about to be fucked up by his brother's psychotic lover. He sighed, depression already starting. Maybe I could work in television.

Legi started to back away. Seeing what he believed was submission in Xander's bowed head. Before he could move very far, Xander's hand shot out catching the offending digit. Legi screamed as his first two fingers were shattered in Xander's crushing grip. Shoving Xander back, he clutched his injured hand growling.

Lindsey watched terrified as Legi began to change. Fuck!

He started to scramble out of the way then stopped. On the other hand, I won't have to worry about a job if I'm dead.

He watched as Legi leaped, half shifted onto Xander. The wolf landed hard knocking them to the floor. Lindsey leapt out of the way, as the bodies rolled across the floor. He might not mind dying, but he didn't want to end up needing flea-baths.

Snarls rang through the air as the wolf snapped at Xander's neck. Suddenly, the wolf howled then collapsed. Lindsey stared mouth agape as Xander shoved the body off himself. He stood slowly--scanning the room for further attacks before reaching towards the corpse.

Plucking a sliver blade from the still chest, he wiped the blood on the torn clothing before making the knife disappear. Lindsey whirled around, startled by the opening door. Fighting panic, his mind raced forming plans and dismissing ideas. Ready to start defending himself, he turned to the open door and froze, confused. There was no security, no telepaths. Nothing except a slender non-descript blonde man.

Shreck stepped in to the room carefully avoiding the dead body. "Please, Lindsey... Mr. Harris be seated. This mess will be cleared away shortly," he said gesturing at the corpse. As two guards removed the body Shreck extended his hand. "My name is Thane Shreck. New senior junior partner. I hope this little incident has no bearing on our negotiations."

Xander shook his head, offering his hand in return. "No effect what so ever as long as this is the only such incident." Lindsey watched slightly stunned, as the two men settled at the table and began discussing contracts, terms, and fees.

A sharp beeping noise pulled Lindsey from his memories. He inhaled deeply as he poured hot coffee into several mugs. He could here Nick and Xander stirring in the bedroom. Hurrying, he fixed the tray and headed back. He stopped in the doorway; taking in a sight he had sorely missed.

Xander looked up from his lazy study of Nick's body, and grinned at Lindsey. Grinning back, he walked into the room, putting the tray on the night-stand before dropping onto the bed.

Leaning forward, he stared into the dark eyes then captured Xander's full lips in a kiss. Slowly he traced his mouth, tongue stroking, sweeping over it. Nipping gently, begging for entrance. When it was given he slipped inside. Tongue delving, searching-- tasting every inch of the warm haven of Xander's mouth. Moaning he pressed closer as if trying to climb inside, too.

His mouth was a temple, and Lindsey worshipped. Nick shifted restlessly, watching as his brother kissed Xander. He found the sight nothing but erotic. He'd always thought Lindsey was beautiful. But watching him with Xander, he was... they were... exquisite.

Slowly, Nick drew away staring into Xander's questioning gaze. He smiled softly, "Thank you."

Xander looked puzzled until Lindsey grasped his face in both hands. Xander shrugged and said simply, "Your mine. No one hurts you but me."

Smirking, Lindsey moved closer but Xander held him still. "Not, yet. There are... things we need to discuss."

Sighing, Lindsey leaned over and grabbed the breakfast tray. After several minutes of quiet eating, he turned to Xander.

"What do you plan to do?"

Xander smirked slightly, putting down his cup of coffee. "Divide and conquer. You do know Angel was cursed with a soul?" Lindsey nodded. "Well... the pesky thing is going to go bye-bye. I'm going to tear them apart from the inside," he said stroking the hair off Nick's face.

Lindsey shook his head, "We tried that. Besides don't you think they'll eventually figure out what you're doing?"

Shifting, Nick onto his lap Xander was silent a moment. "First I know what I'm doing. Secondly, of course they will but by then it'll be too late." Xander paused staring down at Nick's head in his lap. "Which brings me to you, Pet. I want you out of the way while this is going on."

Nick shot up, shaking his head. "No! I don't wanna go. I want to stay with you--"

Xander caught Nick's chin, pulling him close. "No, Pet. I'm sure everything'll be cool but I want you out of harm's way just to be safe."

"But, Lin...."

"Lindsey can take care of himself Nick. You'd be in greater danger, and I will not tolerate that. End of discussion."

Nick stared up at Xander, then dropped his head seeing he meant it. He hated being away from his alpha. It always made him feel lost, and not quite safe anymore. Sensing the brewing pouting fit, Xander reached out clasping Nick's head, then yanked him forward possessing his mouth.

When he finally let go, Nick lay panting in his arms. He turned back to Lindsey his mouth set in a wicked grin. Lindsey shivered, he knew that grin. It promised pain like no other, to whoever Xander was thinking of. Angel wouldn't know what hit him.

"Let the fun begin," whispered Xander.

fin

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