Disclaimer: Everything BtVS and AtS is owned by Joss, ME, and all them over there. Everything Anita Blake is owned by Laurell K. Hamilton
Chapter 11
The delivery man was polite and courteous and was chuckling to see the eager, childlike look on the pretty girls face as she opened the door.
�Hi!� She squeaked
�Package for a Willow Rosenberg.�
�Me!� she jumped and grabbed it out of hands.
�Sign.� He handed her the clipboard and she scribbled away without even looking.
Willow slammed the door and raced up the stairs to her room with the box in her hands.
She ripped off the paper and took off the top.
Her breath caught in her throat as she glimpsed the contents and she let it out in a hiss as she picked up the most beautiful dress she had ever seen.
It was a forest green satin ball gown with spaghetti straps and a full corset leading to a billowing full skirt that hung like a bell. Her breath caught in her throat and she noticed a post it stuck to the front of the dress. She grinned as she saw the note- BELLE OF THE BALL.
Red
As promised I finally have time to write you a huge letter. And now I do I don't know where to start.
I'm happy pet, happier than I've been in a long time, I've finally gotten rid of a lot of baggage that was holding me down (and I don't mean the car) and I feel a hell of a lot lighter. I have you to thank for that, everything that you've done for me. I don't know how I'll ever repay you, although I figure the dress might be a start. I can just imagine you in that green setting off your hair and eyes making you look just like a pixie Queen. And here I am again suddenly acting like a bloody ponce. Only around you, love!
It's not selfish for you to want a future and it is what you deserve pet, the Slayer has her sacred duty and that's all well and dandy for her but for you? It's not your gig and you shouldn't have to sacrifice your life to pander to hers. I'm not saying that you should ignore everything supernatural (especially not me) but a girl like you shouldn't have to walk in the darkness.
Back to your letter and what that bitch Slayer put you through, her ass is grass love. I want her dead. And as for my bleeding Sire for letting you get caught. I was soo mad I ripped the head of three demons before I calmed down enough to read the rest of the letter. I hate him, I've always hated him and he's just given me one more reason. The Slayer can take care of herself but you are only human. An exceptional human true but fragile and mortal, he should have protected you and not gone for the brain located in his trousers when he saw his screw toy in trouble. The bitch can take care of herself it's her job to battle the nasties, not yours. If you'd been hurt there is nothing in this world that would stop me from hunting him down and making that wanker pay. And pay and pay.
But you! What the hell were you thinking? You are more precious than some damn pages love, your curiosity is gonna be the death of you- and almost was, enough with the Nancy-drewing and just try to stay safe. For me, if not yourself. I couldn't handle it if you died love, not if I wasn't there to bring you over. Eternity just wouldn't be as fun if you weren't there.
Things around here are still pretty hectic and I've just been called away so I have to go now. I will write soon or call and let you know what's going on.
Until then be safe.
Eternally yours
Spike.
P.S I knew they reinforced that bloody sign!
Willow stared at the signature at the end of the letter, that was the second time he'd signed off with Eternally yours or something similar. Before he'd just finished it with �Spike�, she guessed that mean that he was feeling lighter and happier which was great, she just wished it didn't mean that he was happy with Dru. Not that she wished him misery, she was just jealous. From how she had been feeling these past days without hearing from him, she knew that she was in love with him. Properly in love.
It was scary the way she felt, and just now when she read the part about him turning her, she wasn't scared. She was intrigued and happy that she wouldn't have to live without him, in fact he wanted her with him for eternity- which was a good sign.
Maybe he had some sort of feelings towards her other than friendly. Or maybe she was fooling herself; it's possible that he just wanted to preserve his only friend in the world. The thought made her shoulders slump and she pulled the dress out of its box and closer to her. She imagined she could smell his scent on it, but it was probably just her imagination.
~~~*~~~
�Hello Rosenberg Residence Willow speaking.�
�Who died and made you a butler?�
�Spike?� her voice lit up with delight
�Yeah pet, it's me. Your immortal sex god.� She could tell he was grinning.
�I though you went by �Spike�, dammit now I'll have to change my address book entry.�
�Funny pet.� He answered dryly �So how's my little witch?�
�Not so good right now.�
�What is it?� his response was instantaneous and worry clouded his accent
�Not me!� she assured him �But you just missed Buffy, she was just here. Angel isn't taking her to the prom, in fact as soon as the Mayor's thing is over he's leaving town.�
�Oh.�
�No, not just oh, he's a�a�.�
�Twat?�
�Yes! Whatever that is. He's one. I mean it'd be like Cordelia breaking up with Xander on Valentines Day. Breaking up just before the Prom, the *day* before the Prom? It sucks, its beyond cruel and god, Spike. Buffy's a mess. It hurts her so bad. She couldn't stop crying and even though we get the reasoning, it's made her�empty.�
�Angelus was always a cruel bastard, master of mind games.�
�Well it's not funny.� Her breath caught
�Red?�
�I'm sorry Spike, its just� I feel for Buffy, just when we all thought that she'd have one night of normality, bang. Angel goes and screws it up, I am so mad at him right now. Madder even than when he tried to kill me.�
�You are a strange one pet.�
�Don't I know it.� she decided to change the topic �How about you?�
�I'm fine love, great even. Things are busy and hectic but are slowly falling into place.�
�Yeah, so what have you been up to then?�
Silence held for a few seconds
�Can't say right now red, I will do soon, promise but everything's still dead tense right now.�
�Dead tense?�
�No pun intended.�
Willow laughed anyway and he joined her, it felt good to laugh with him.
�Well at least tell me how you are?� she asked
�I'm great, everything is good right now. I got the Desoto fixed and upgraded it now plays C. D's not just tapes, wired with terrific stereo system and undented, new leather interior and all, its luxury- fit for my queen.�
Willow swallowed �And how is Dru?�
�Fine I guess�what? Hold on a minute Willow.� she heard his muffled sounds from the other end, like he was holding his hand over the receiver. After a few more muffled moments his voice came back.
�Sorry love I have to go, some problem in the bleeding works.�
�Oh.� Her voice was small �But we didn't get to talk much.�
�I know pet, I'm sorry.� And he did sound it, very sorry. �I have to go.�
�Spike!� she said quickly before she could lose her nerve
�Yeah?�
�Tomorrow's the Prom but after that�would you call me or-or write to me before graduation?� she hesitated a second �It's just if Buffy doesn't manage to defeat the mayor, that could be it for us all, and I want to hear from you before�just in case.�
�Why's that then?� his voice was cautious
�Because I l-� she didn't know if she should say the words
�Yeah?� he prompted after a moment's silence
�Just promise me.� She lost her courage and copped out.
He sighed as if in disappointment, or maybe it was relief.
�I promise you will hear from me before your graduation.� Willow smiled softly at the sincerity he portrayed.
�Thank you Spike.�
�No problem love, have good party.�
�Will do. Night Spike.�
�Bye pet.�
Chapter 12
Willow sat in the library, her eyes on the video player that spun away in front of them. Everyone was watching horrified as the monster ripped the boy to pieces.
�Right there.� Xander pointed out as the monster hesitated �See, it's, it's like he just realized he forgot to put money in the meter or something.�
Cordelia rolled her eyes at her boyfriend �You know the part that totally weirded me out? That thing had good taste. I mean he chucks Xander and went right for the formal wear.�
Willow agreed, that was the odd part. There was Xander and Cordelia right in front of it and then it just turned and attacked some guy in the corner.
�That's right. He left behind his copy of Monsters Wear Daily.� He added dryly and Cordelia hit his shoulder
�I'm serious. Look at the outfit that Xander's wearing. Now look at the kid that the monster went after. Very smooth lines, 'til he was shredded.�
Buffy stopped Giles before he could rewind the tape �I don't want to see it again.� Giles moved closer to her watching the pain in her face �Buffy, I know it's horrible, but if you're going to hunt this creature, you should study it.�
Willow wanted to punch Giles, he was being so insensitive and yeah okay he didn't know about Angel but even so. She opened her mouth to say something but Buffy just glanced at her.
�Think I got it.�
Willow smiled at her to show her support �She's right. I mean, you've seen one big hairy bringer of death, you've seen 'em all.�
Wesley obviously needed to exert his presence back into the room and piped up �If I'm not mistaken, this is a hellhound.�
�Yes. It's particularly vicious. It's sort of a demon foot soldier bred during the Machash Wars. Trained solely to kill. They feed off the brains of their foes.� Giles agreed with him. Willow wondered how Giles had so much trivia in his head, if you had too much trivia what could happen? Would your brain explode?
Cordelia put a stop to her musings by having a row with Xander about the mechanics of a VCR.
�What were you doing there?� Oz asked �I thought you had an outfit?�
Xander rolled his eyes �Apparently we don't match; I had to exchange my shirt so we don't clash.�
Willow watched Buffy who was staring off into space as the little exchanges took place around them; she could see the anger in Buffy's face as they identified one �Tucker Wells� as the face of the hellhound raiser.
And righteous indignation burnt up as they hacked into his email and learned that he was planning on setting his monsters loose on the Prom.
Giles made sure that the Xander's of the world were caught up �So, we have a threat against the students on their big night, a hellhound trained to attack people in formal wear...�
Cordelia smirked as Xander's expression cleared
�Oh, are we all catching up now?�
�Tucker is planning to attack the prom tonight.� Oz added with his usual dry wit �Once again, the Hellmouth puts the special in special occasion.�
Xander just slumped �Why do I even buy tickets for these things, I ask you?�
Willow just shrugged agreeing with him, it was just too bad that none of them could have a perfect high school function without something hell mouthy happening. She looked around and saw the resigned look on everyone's face. Cordelia sagged, gracefully into her chair and Oz seemed even more laconic than normal.
She sighed �Wonder if I should send my dress back?�
Not that Spike would accept it, except it had obviously cost a pretty penny and if this deal whatever he was working out was expensive he might need the cash.
Buffy suddenly seemed to snap out of her funk �Don't you dare.�
�But Tucker is going to...� she started to explain but Buffy cut her off with a determined
�No! You guys are going to have a prom. The kind of prom that everyone should have. I'm going to give you all a nice, fun, normal evening if I have to kill every single person on the face of the earth to do it.�
No one knew what to say to that statement, Willow knew it sprang from Buffy's own hurt at her own ideal being shattered and she wanted to hug her friend and tell her it was okay.
Xander looked around at the stunned faces and summed it up for them �Yay?�
Buffy issued orders for them to go and find out what they could. She seemed like a general trying to rally troops before the big show down and they all obeyed with out question.
Willow walked over to Buffy.
�Don't Will.� Buffy said warding her off �If I start crying now I wont stop.� She pleaded with her eyes.
�I love you.� Willow offered
�Love you too.� Buffy softened and they shared a smile, that promised friendship to eternity and Willow walked away to get started.
But in under an hour they were all back reporting their progress
�Zeroes all around, Buff.� Xander dealt the good news.
�Sorry.� Willow hated not turning up anything in her searches.
Buffy just shrugged �Make not with the long faces. I got the address. Now the prom starts in a little while. I want you guys to go on and I'll catch up with you as soon as I put a lid on this jerk.�
Xander and Willow gaped and the began to protest
�What? No way.�
�We can't just leave you, Buff.�
Giles agreed �Buffy, they're right. You need...�
Buffy interrupted �To see taillights. Hit the door. I have everything under control.�
Oz even turned to complain �Buffy, it makes sense to ...�
�Have. A. Nice. Time.� Her low tone scared them all into action.
Xander, Cordelia and Oz raced for the door.
Willow smiled sadly at Buffy �I'll be alone too Buff, come find me and we'll hang.�
�Promise?� her eyes were beseeching
�Always.�
�Great, now go. I want to see that killer dress.�
Willow ran away to get changed.
~~~*~~~
The Prom was in full swing as Willow entered. She was wearing her hair cascading in soft curls around her shoulders, the forest green doing wonderful things to her eyes and hair- just as promised. She was also wearing the silver and red choker that he had sent for her birthday. She looked a vision and more than one head turned in her direction.
�Wow!� Xander came over and looked her up and down �Willow you look amazing.�
�Where in hell did you get that dress?� Cordelia was green with envy
�Present.� Willow said, stroking the satin down her legs. �You like?�
�You look fantastic.� Cordelia was so impressed she forgot to be catty.
Willow smiled and looked around.
�Well we got in without being eaten I'd say that's a good sign.� She saw Anya standing over in one corner talking to Jonathon who looked scared out of his wits.
She giggled at the thought of what she was telling him.
Wesley was watching Cordelia and not listening to anything Giles was saying. Willow wandered over to them saying hi to people she knew.
Everyone had something to say about her dress. Gone was the shy hacker and a beautiful woman stood in her place and everyone was wowed.
�Giles.� She greeted
�Willow, you look so elegant.� Wesley offered, his face blushing as he kissed her hand. Willow chuckled and grinned at Giles' odd expression.
�What is it Giles?�
�You look beautiful Willow.� he said softly �I feel like a proud father.� he hugged her close, ignoring any strange glances her might get from other teachers or students.
Willow was choked up �Thank you Giles. That means so much; my parents won't even be back until after graduation. But it doesn't matter because you're here.�
Wesley sniffed and turned his head away �Allergies.�
Willow laughed with Giles at the new watcher and the tension left them all.
They both talked for a while but kept their eyes on the door waiting for Buffy.
Finally she walked in
�Hey Buff, nice dress.�
�I'll go with WOW!� Buffy said staring at Willow �Devil dogs are history, how's Prom?�
�Cool.� Willow said and Oz came up behind them
�Strangely affecting. I got all teared up when they played 'We Are Family'�
They all smiled.
Willow knew what to say to make Buffy feel better.
�It's perfect.� Buffy beamed at her and they hugged.
�Although I think we should rescue Jonathon from Anya.�
~~~*~~~
Willow watched as they began to announce the awards, they got that over with at the beginning so everyone could concentrate on having a good time.
Xander and Cordelia won an award for oddest couple which made up for him not winning Class clown award.
Then Buffy got the surprise of her life when she was awarded the Class protector award. When the whole room applauded her, Willow felt like her heart would burst for her friend and she sniffed, trying to not to cry and waste her makeup.
�Now, now, tears do not go with that outfit pet.�
Willow spun around �Spike?�
And he was there. His beached blonde hair looking striking against the black tux he wore. It fitted him like a glove complete with black silk shirt open at the neck.
He walked closer and reached up, cupping her cheek with his cool hands.
�Hello pet.� His voice sent shivers down her spine, it was low and sensual.
She smiled at him softly �What are you doing here?�
�I heard that my girl was going solo to her big dance, we couldn't have the belle of the ball all alone now could we?�
�You came back from Brazil to escort me to the Prom?� she was incredulous
�No I came back to tell you that I love you, the Prom was just a bonus.�
Willow's jaw dropped �Wha-?�
Spike chuckled and pulled her out to the dance floor.
�See pet, while I was in Brazil I heard some stuff about this ascension. How it was going to be a big old party. At first I was impressed, then it dawned on me you were in danger.� He pulled her into his arms and looked down at her �I had to come to save you, save my girl. But Dru, Dru was pissed. She didn't want to come back here and she was furious that I wanted to save you. She was screaming and all trying to get her own way. But I had to get back here for you. I didn't care what she thought. Then it suddenly hit me. I don't care about Dru any more. Not like I did. She isn't my world. You are. I couldn't talk to her, not like I can you. I couldn't confide in her or even show my whole self to. She didn't care about me and I no longer care about her. It took me a while to figure out why it was okay.�
He leaned down to look intently into her eyes, the blue intense in their proximity.
�Because somewhere between Sunnydale and Sao Paulo, I fell in love with you. I love you Willow.�
�I love you too.� Was all she could manage, her throat was tight with tears and emotion as he lifted her into his arms and pressed his lips to hers for the first time.
The soft pressure of his mouth on hers caused her to gasp and he took the opportunity to delve into the sweet depths, tasting her at each turn until she needed to breathe.
He leaned his forehead on hers, their eyes locked.
�Oh wow.� She whispered to him and he grinned. His face lit up.
�By the way you look smashing.�
�You too, you clean up good.� She eyed the tux.
�You like?� he stretched his arms out and let her look her fill.
�More than.�
�Me too.� He stroked her cheek again and kissed her softly.
�Willow who's the�oh my god you're Spike!� Buffy voice pulled them out of their moment.
Willow stood in front of him.
�It's okay Buffy.�
�It's not okay Will, this is Spike- evil Spike!�
�Thanks.� Spike preened behind Willow.
�Not helping.� she turned her head slightly to warn him off �Buffy, Spike is my date.�
Buffy's mouth opened and closed a few times �D-date?�
�He's the one I've been writing to.�
�You didn't show my letters to the Slayer did you love?� he sounded worried.
�Of course not.� She looked over her shoulder �They're mine.�
�Me too?� he asked quietly, ignoring the Slayer.
�You too.� She leaned up on tiptoe and kissed him.
Buffy made an inarticulate sound in her throat.
�Demon.� She pointed and pouted at him.
�But I bought you a present.� Spike pointed over her shoulder.
Buffy turned in fighting stance, half expecting a hoard of Vampires. Well it was a Vampire.
�Angel?�
�Red told me that he didn't ask you to the dance. Since this is your big who-ha, I thought he should make an appearance. After all a girl only gets one Prom.�
He pulled Willow back into his arms.
Buffy stared at him and then at Angel and back again.
�You brought Angel here for me?�
�You being upset was upsetting my Red, and that's not allowed.� He answered kissing Willow's collarbone.
�Say thank you Buffy.� Willow instructed with a grin.
�T-thank you Spike.� Buffy swallowed and went to move to Angel, she paused �But we are so having words tomorrow Willow.�
Willow nodded and turned back, melting into Spike's arms.
�Now this is how it's meant to be.� He whispered in her ear, his voice low and sending shivers up her spine.
�Always.�
Chapter 13
Willow tried hard to cling to that sweet elusive sleep but the flapping of the curtains forced her awake and she sat up and clutched the sheets to her naked chest as she looked around.
Last night had been the best of her life. Spike had showed up to her graduation in a tux, he had professed his love and they had come home together. He had taken her innocence and her heart in one night. It had been romantic and frantic, gentle and rough and she was left aching in more places than her body knew possible.
It was a good sensation and one that she would be happy with for the rest of her life.
But Spike was gone. After their lovemaking all night, he was missing. Her heart sank until she noted a piece of paper on the pillow next to her.
Red.
You'll never know how much I just wanted to stay in your bed with you and hold you as the sun came up, watching you wake up and making love to you all day and never letting you go, but there are things that I have to do today. Its essential or hell itself couldn't have dragged me away from your soft warm body this morning.
Just know this, that I will be with you all day and tonight, when the world is safe again from the damn ascension we will spend the rest of eternity together.
I love you.
Spike
Willow hugged the sheet to herself and smiled at the letter. It was Spike through and through and one more letter to add to her collection. She realised that she'd never get tired of this, of waking up knowing that she would be seeing him that day.
She wished she could lie in bed and wait for him to get here and be with her again.
But she had to get ready for her graduation and the Mayor's ascension. It was guaranteed to be a big party and even though Spike couldn't be there in person, she knew he was in Sunnydale and that was worth it.
~~~*~~~
The graduation set up was typical of every high school. The students sat up front, just ahead of the podium where the teachers would sit and the Mayor would make his address. The parents who actually cared enough to come would sit at the back to watch their pride and joy graduate from High school.
Buffy watched with her arms folded as the custodian's finished setting up the chairs. Willow came up behind her and touched her shoulder.
�This is it.� Buffy sighed �The finale.�
Willow draped her arm over her best friends shoulder
�That it is Buffy, we'll do fine. Everything's in place right?�
�Yep, got Xander to talk to Harmony and got Faith all Coma'd away. Everything's in place and ready to burn.�
�Literally.� Willow surveyed the High school and smiled.
Buffy turned to her friend �You talk to Percy and Oz?�
Willow nodded and wrapped her arms around herself �You do realise that your plan is crazy right?�
�Oh and Oz's idea was sane?�
�Attacking the Mayor with Humus was, I'll admit, crazier than yours but I still think Anya's head for the hills was doable.�
Buffy grinned �I like the humus idea.�
�I don't know I think maybe Taramasalata would be more original.� Willow tucked her hair behind her ear.
�Angel's going to just go.� Buffy blurted out and Willow's face fell �He broke up with me last night and he's just going to leave without saying goodbye.�
The tears dropped unchecked down her cheeks as Willow offered her the comfort of her embrace.
�Oh god Buffy I'm so sorry.� Willow patted her friend, knowing full well what a broken heart felt like. She had felt that way when she thought she had lost Spike for good.
�It hurts so much Willow, like a huge ball of nothing in my heart, how could he just go?�
�You have to believe it hurts him as much as it hurts you Buffy. At least you got that one perfect high school moment.� Willow tried to comfort Buffy.
Buffy sniffed and stepped back �I did, and I will always cherish that.� she paused �And I have your boyfriend to thank for that.�
Willow blushed �He is one of a kind.�
Buffy looked at her steadily �He's evil Willow.�
�So evil he made Angel dance with you and so evil he sent me a piñata of Cordelia for my birthday so I could take out my frustrations without hurting anyone.�
Buffy blinked �That was Cordelia?�
�Or Anya.� Willow watched as the tears dried up and Buffy's lips twitched.
�I could like him.�
�Hands off.� Willow mock pouted �He's mine.�
�I don't want him!�
�You wouldn't say that if you'd seen him naked.� Willow ducked her head and Buffy gaped
�Willow Rosenberg, tell me you did not have sex with him!�
Willow blushed as two students passed by and overheard Buffy's exclamation, they gave her two thumbs up as the carried on walking by.
�Shh Buffy. We did, last night.�
�And?� Buffy leaned forward intrigued
�It was wonderful.� Willow blushed harder at the memory �And that's all I'm going to say.�
Buffy looked impressed.
�You are gonna have to tell me all about him and how you guys hooked up, it's too bizarre, Willow and Spike!� she shuddered.
�I love him. He dumped Drusilla for me and he came here from Brazil to tell me he loves me.� Willow said softly, not wanting to rub it in.
Buffy was silent for a moment �I'm happy for you Will. If he makes you happy you grab onto him and don't let him go.�
�Not planning on it.�
Buffy sighed �Time to go.� They linked arms and began to walk away.
�If we win, Willow, you have to tell me everything and I mean in minute detail.�
�Then let's hear it for the Mayor!�
~~~*~~~
Principal Snyder watched as the students took their seats in a sea of red polyester.
�Congratulations to the class of 1999. You all proved more or less adequate. This is a time of celebration, so: sit still and be quiet.�
The students sat down rolling their eyes at the Principals little speech
�Spit out that gum.� He commanded, not wanting them to forget who was in charge. �Please welcome our distinguished guest speaker: Richard Wilkins the 3rd. I saw that gesture. You see me after graduation."
Willow sat next to Buffy and they shared a tentative grin. Buffy leaned closer
�You're not really rooting for the Mayor, are you Willow?�
�That depends on if I get the third degree after we win.�
The Mayor stood up and shook hands with Snyder. He smiled broadly and took out cue cards from his jacket.
�Well. What a day this is! - Special day. Today is our centennial the one hundredth anniversary of the founding of Sunnydale, and I know what that means to all you kids: not a darn thing. Because today something much more important happens: today you all graduate from high school. Today all the pain, all the work, all the excitement is finally over. And what's a hundred years of history compared to that? You know what kids?�
Buffy's jaw dropped �Oh my God. He's going to do the entire speech.�
Willow shook her head in disbelief �Man, just ascend already.�
Buffy narrowed her eyes at him �Evil!� she hissed.
The Mayor continued his little speech �for all of you it may be that there is a place in Sunnydale's history, whether you like it or not. It's been a long road getting here. For you� for Sunnydale. There has been achievement, joy, good times� and there has been grief. There's been loss. Some people who should be here today� aren't.�
Willow and Buffy watched as he grimaced. He was obviously thinking about Faith.
�But we are. - Journey's end. And what is a journey? Is it just distance travelled? Time spent? No. It's what happens on the way, it the things that happen to you. At the end of the journey you're not the same. Today is about change. Graduation doesn't just mean your circumstances change, it means you do. You ascend to a higher level. Nothing will ever be the same. Nothing."
The whole of the graduating class and most of the faculty looked up as the hot sunny day began to fade into clouds- anything was better than listen to the Mayors speech.
They watched bewildered as the sun darkened. Buffy took a deep breathe and tensed.
�And so as we look back on the events that brought us to this day-�
Buffy glared at him and pulled her hat off �Oh just come on!�
Willow giggled nervously at Buffy's impatience.
The Mayors speech was punctuated by grimaces and screams of pain as the change began to take him over- eventually he abandoned his speech altogether.
�It has begun. My destiny. It's a little sooner then I expected I had this whole section on civic pride, But I guess we'll just skip to the big finish!�
Buffy looked to Willow as the Mayor started to stretch and grow. His suit split, falling to the floor in expensive tailored shreds and a snake grew from the tattered remains
�That is no way to treat a Versace.� They heard Cordelia behind them wince.
But suddenly no one was listening as the snake grew and huge mandibles surrounded his mouth.
Both parents and faculty screamed and leaped off the stage running for safety.
The students all watched Buffy and stood up when she did; they stared at the Mayor-snake and waited.
Buffy growled �Now!�
Chapter 14
The graduating class off 99 threw off their dowdy red polyester gowns to reveal weaponry. Axe's, flamethrowers and crosses.
Larry grinned as he pulled his flamethrower up from around his neck and Harmony dragged her crossbow out with a proud grin at the ultimate fashion accessory.
Buffy started calling orders to her troop �Flame units!�
Those students who were of the fire group pointed their flames at the Mayor who hissed and swayed above them screaming loudly.
Xander turned to see a huge wave of Vampires standing behind them
�First wave!� he called and Willow turned with her unit of crossbows to attack the Mayor.
The Mayor turned on the students, incensed and retaliated by eating a latecomer.
Snyder stood on the podium wide eyed in shock �This�this is unacceptable.�
The Mayor had frightened some of the students and they turned to run- straight into the newly arrived Vampire army.
�Arm bow men.� Xander called and a bunch of students picked up bow and arrows and fired at the Vampires. The Vampires scoffed until the children lit the ends of the arrows and let loose the burning harpoons. The Vampires retreated.
�Fall back.� Buffy screamed and the students followed her.
The students let fly with the fire arrows again and several more vampires got hit. They raced to leave only to find themselves confronted by another group of students led by Angel, flanked by Percy and Wesley.
The Vampires stood still for a moment and then grinned as a huge army of demons walked into the Campus.
�Looks like we outnumber you.� One goaded to Angel.
The sounds of battle faded as the students realised that they were not only outnumbered but surrounded.
Buffy swallowed hard.
The new demons moved slightly to the side and a lone figure walked up the centre.
�Sorry mates.� Spike drawled �We're on their side.� He pointed to Angel and grinned at the caught Vampires.
Willow's heart expanded as she saw her love throw in his lot with the white hats.
�You see we don't want to be ruled by a snake and some of us like humans.� his eyes found Willow.
the only sound for a moment was Snyder yelling �This is not orderly. This is not discipline, You're on my campus buddy!�
The Mayor seemed to have had about enough of him as the students had and rushed down.
�And when I say I want quiet, I want-� no one ever found out what he wanted as the Mayor ate him.
The sound of Principal being chewed spurred them all into action again.
Spike and his demons rushed the Vamps at the same time Angel and the students did.
�Hey dude, are we supposed to kill the demons too?� Percy asked Oz who just shrugged.
�I think they're on our side.� Angel added as he punched a Vampire �It was Spike's doing. He always had strange ideas.�
�Should have gone for the humus.� Oz picked up his stake and carried on.
Buffy yelled for the students to fall back and then she turned to Willow �Go.�
�Good luck.� Willow said and ran down the steps to join the fight.
�Everybody, hand to hand. Everyone! Lets go! Move! Move!".� Xander yelled as he passed out stakes.
Willow trusted Buffy to finish off the Mayor and she darted down the steps staking Vampires in her wake. She turned quickly feeling someone at her back.
�Spike!�
�Hey pet.� He said with a flash of smirk as he decapitated a Vampire �What you thought I'd miss your big graduation. Like hell.�
Willow turned so they were fighting back to back �Where did the demons come from?�
�As soon as I heard about the ascension, I started recruiting myself an army of demons who liked humans and wanted to help; that's what I've been doing since I left Dru.�
�You did?�
�I couldn't let them hurt you, pet.�
Willow swung her axe at a Vampire who ducked, she kicked it, knocking it back and she dusted it with her wooden heel- just like Buffy had told her.
�You recruited them- you did all this to save me?� She half turned to look at him as he tore the head off a Vamp.
Spike twisted to look at her, his forehead was covered in blood where a vamp had got lucky and hit him. He smiled rapaciously at her.
�Of course.� He grabbed her around the waist and pulled her into his arms. He ducked his head and ravaged her mouth with his lips.
She pulled back to breath and had to dodge a swinging sword.
�Fight now, kiss later.�
Spike bowed in a flourish as he staked another Vampire �Your wish is my command.�
Willow watched as the tide started to turn and the Vamp dust exploded like the fourth of July fireworks.
Suddenly a loud boom struck the air and they all turned as the high school exploded. Spike jumped on top of Willow protecting her from flying debris as each section of the school burst into flames and fury.
The graduating class of Sunnydale high, stood up as they watched the school be torn apart and they collectively smiled and turned to the remaining Vampires with renewed vigour.
~~~*~~~
The darkened streets were filled with fire engines trying desperately to put out the flames of the high school and hoards of police men asking each student what had happened. Ironically enough the students all replied the same
�Gangs on PCP and exploded gas pipes.�
Stretchers carried out those wounded and moaning- some louder than others.
Buffy just searched the crowds for that elusive someone.
Xander walked by her side �We got off pretty cheap� considering.� He knew she wasn't paying him any attention as she absent-mindedly replied
�Seems like we did.�
Xander sighed �He made it through the fight. Guess maybe he took off after.�
Buffy just nodded and looked away. Xander went to catch his girlfriend who was asking a cute fireman who to sue about her ruined Prada heels.
Giles walked up to her and lay a hand on her shoulder �Are you all right?�
Buffy couldn't even begin to answer that right now �I'm tired.�
Giles smiled affectionately at her �I should imagine so. It's been quite a couple of days.�
Buffy just sighed �I haven't processed everything yet. My brain isn't really functioning on the higher levels. It's pretty much; fire bad; tree pretty.�
Giles shook his head �Understandable. Well, when it's working again congratulate it on a good campaign. You did very well.�
Buffy thanked him, her heart hurting as she tried not to cry.
Giles put his glasses on and reached into his pocket to pull out her charred diploma �I ah� I managed to ferret this out of the wreckage. Now, it may not interest you, but I'd say you earned it.�
Buffy took it without much interest.
Giles wanted to say something to take that look off her face but wasn't sure what, he looked around �There is a certain dramatic irony that's attached to all this. A Synchronicity that borders on� on predestination, one might say.�
Buffy smiled at him �Fire bad; tree pretty.�
Giles chuckled and apologised. He walked away to see Wesley.
Buffy watched him go for a second and then spun around. Angel stood beside a fire truck looking at her.
For a heartbeat they stared at each other remembering the words and feelings and then he slowly turned and walked away.
Buffy felt a hand on her shoulder and something touch her palm and she turned to see Willow holding her hand in silent commiseration.
She gave a brave smile and they walked over to the stone steps in front of the school where the others were waiting.
Oz, Xander and Cordelia watched the fire and shared a grin.
�Well, that's the most fun you can have without having any fun.� Cordelia said, laying her head on Xander's shoulder.
�Oh don't tell me that wasn't fun!� Spike came up and slipped his am around Willow's waist.
�Argh Spike!� Xander yelled and pointed to him.
�Mine.� Willow tightened her hold on Spike's arm and he ducked his head to kiss her lips.
�Argh Spike!� Xander yelled again �Willow!�
Spike raised an eyebrow �And you had a crush on that?�
�Chill Xander.� Buffy said wearily �Spike helped us. He loves Willow.�
�He does?� Xander looked faint.
�He does.� Spike maintained and pulled her impossibly closer.
�How'd you end up with such a hottie?� Cordelia asked jealously.
�Well she's not a bitch for one.� Spike remarked to her and she coloured.
�You're dating Spike? How could you be dating Spike?� Xander gaped.
�I just pretty much am.� Willow shrugged unwilling to explain herself.
�Are you sure you're not Vamp Willow?�
�Vamp Willow?� Spike's tone was curious
Willow blushed, �Long story.�
�How can my best friend be dating a demon and I not know?�
�You and the head cheerleader were too busy playing to care.� Spike mouthed off and was satisfied at the horrified look on Xander's face.
�I was�we were�� he paused and stared at her as if he was searching for something �Are you happy Wills?�
Willow looked up into Spike's ice blue eyes �Yeah.�
Xander swallowed �Then I guess that's enough.�
�Guys, I think we've done pretty much all we can. You guys want to take off?� Buffy asked.
Oz came up to her and lay his hand on her arm �You okay?�
�Yeah� I'm okay. - I could use a little sleep though.�
Willow nodded and agreed emphatically �Yeah.�
Spike raised an eyebrow again �Alright, straight to bed with you when we get home.�
Willow blushed and Xander yelped
�Gyah!�
Buffy chuckled and leaned on Oz �If someone could just wake me when it's time to go to college, that'd be great.� Willow smiled at her for taking off the heat.
�Guys take a moment to deal with this: - we survived.� Oz added as he put his arm around Buffy, Xander nodded his eyes still on Willow and Spike.
Buffy yawned �It was a hell of a battle!�
Oz shook his head �Not the battle, high school.�
They all looked quietly at the school and listened to the crickets chirping.
�We're taking a moment,� Oz paused as Spike whispered in Willow's ear making her giggle. They stood up to leave �and we're done.�
Xander got up and walked off next to Cordelia, he looked at Willow and smiled �Well, School's done.�
�That it is, pet.� Spike nudged Willow with his hips �So what do you want to do now?�
Epilogue
Buffy
Well I never thought I'd actually leave Sunnydale but here I am. Well here we are. Spike was as good as his word and we are doing a grand tour of all his favourite places. Right now we are checking out the Loire region of France and all the magical castles, they are so beautiful Buffy, all turrets and lights, at night the while place glows and I feel just like a fairy Princess. I'm having the time of my life Buffy and everything is great. Spike says that we could get married if I want, it won't hold much weight with Vampire society but since he's already claimed me that's not such a problem. I told him we have to wait until Giles can give me away and you can be my maid of honour. He muttered about having a Slayer and a Watcher at a Vampire wedding but I can talk him around. Spike is so attentive and caring, he makes sure I'm taken care of and cherishes me. I love him more than I ever thought possible and I don't want you to freak but I have agreed to let him turn me one day so we can be together for eternity.
Not just yet though, I have to go to college. I've accepted Oxford and so Spike and I will be living in England for a while, I'll come visit you and Xander and Giles eventually, but for now we are just meandering around wherever the mood- and the Desoto take us. Please send the attached note to the Sunnydale Community centre; it has a suggestion for reinforcing the �Welcome to Sunnydale� sign. Spike's idea. Probably best not to ask.
The next stop I think is England where we'll do Stonehenge and big Ben and those sights, I can't wait.
Anyway we left quite quickly after the graduation and so I never got to tell you how we met and fell in love. Attached to this letter is the whole story and I hope it explains quite a bit, I know it makes me smile whenever I think of it. I miss you all and love you too.
Hope we will see you again soon.
Forever yours
Willow and Spike.
The End