When Spike woke the second time, he was alone in Angel’s bed. He didn’t move. He could hear the soft scratches of a pencil against paper coming from behind him. Angelus was drawing him. He could only imagine how he looked, stretched out, naked, on his stomach, half-wrapped around a king-size pillow. Soon, he wouldn’t have to imagine. Angelus would finish the drawing and he would see what his sire saw when he looked at him like this. He waited.

Angelus sketched the beauty before him with sure and steady hands. He knew the instant Spike awakened. He didn’t move or even breathe, but there was a change, none the less. Angelus could feel it, like a subtle shift in the air on the link between them. He could also feel his childe’s hunger. He didn’t rush, though. Spike was a Master Vampire. He could control the hunger, the bloodlust, long enough for him to finish his drawing. It was still early in the day and it wasn’t as if they had to go far. Yes, animal blood was all that was to be found in the hotel, but it would do until nightfall.

Angelus discounted the tunnel system entirely. He didn’t want to risk running into any of Angel’s pet humans just yet. And there was no telling where they were or what they were up to. He knew they weren’t in the hotel. Not even Fred. He was a little disappointed about that. He knew he could fool her into thinking he was Angel. Unlike Cordelia, she had never met him and she certainly wouldn’t be expecting anything out of the ordinary. He had thought to turn her first, while the others were out, and then have a bit of fun. The idea of sharing his bed with both Fred and Spike was very appealing.

Spike waited patiently until silence told him that the drawing was complete. Still, he didn’t move. He allowed a rumbling purr to start, deep in his chest and murmured, soft and low, “Sire.”

Angelus smiled. It was a cruel smile, filled with satisfaction. He loved his childe, certainly, but he *was* a demon, after all. He climbed onto the bed, making sure Spike stayed where he was, and placed the drawing in his hand.

Spike gasped. It was magnificent. *He* was magnificent. A slow, self-satisfied grin made it’s way across the sharp angles of his face.

“What?” Angelus asked from behind him.

Spike rolled, slightly, until he was lying on his side, his back to his sire, one leg still wrapped around the pillow. He gave Angelus a little chuckle. “*I’d* do me,” he said happily.

Spike heard him open the lube bottle. ‘At this rate, we’ll need a new bottle by tonight,’ he thought. Then he gasped in pain as three slick fingers were shoved, unceremoniously, into his abused hole.

As he keened in distress, Angelus stroked his back with one hand while the other played mercilessly inside the entrance to his body. Occasionally, Angelus would allow those fingers to brush Spike’s prostate, eliciting further whimpers and moans of pain-filled pleasure.

All the while, Angelus whispered to him, passion bringing out his lovely rolling brogue.

“Such sweet sounds ya give me, m’boyo. Ah, I do love the way ya whimper for me, Will. Give me more. Let me hear yer sweet pain, my precious childe.”

Spike gave him what he wanted – needed – to hear. He whimpered and moaned and begged… holding nothing back. He opened himself completely to the sensations Angelus was inflicting on his bruised and sore body. It had been so long since anyone had cared enough to give him this intoxicating pleasure-pain. So long since he had felt the sweet agony as his sire took pleasure in his body.

It might seem like torture to an outside observer, but Spike and Angelus knew it for what it was – vampiric lovemaking.

Three fingers turned to four as Spike whimpered, pressing back against his sire’s hand, wanting the pain, wanting the pleasure, wanting his sire however he could get him. He cried out as Angelus’ hand entered him, knuckles pushing into his body, stretching him, until he had sunk in so far that the junction of thumb and hand rested firmly against Spike’s perineum. That thumb gently massaged as Spike’s weary muscles spasmed around Angelus’ hand.

Spike’s whimpers had turned to all out cries of pain, but he didn’t try to pull away. Tears fell from his ice-blue eyes as Angelus continued his gentle torment, sweet words of encouragement and love telling him how beautiful he was to his sire’s eyes in those moments of blissful agony.

“I know, dear boy, how sore ya must be, after our lovely night together, and I know it’s been forever since we’ve done this. I know how it hurts ya, and how ya love the pain and hate it as well. But yer mine, sweet William, and it pleases me to see ya like this. Yer so lovely in yer pain, my Will. So beautiful with the tears of it flowin’ down yer sweet face.” Angelus leaned down and kissed Spike’s temple softly. “I want you, boy. Are you ready for me?”

Spike smiled through his tears as he nodded his assent.

“Good then. But, Will?” Angelus waited until Spike’s eyes were looking into his own. “I’ll not let you cum this time, m’boy. This time is for me alone.”

Spike’s eyes were wide as the words sunk in. Then they drifted closed as he took a deep, unneeded breath and nodded his understanding. “For you, Sire. Only for you,” he murmured contentedly.

Angelus slowly, gently, pulled his hand from Spike’s body and lay back, rolling his shaking childe over to his side and then on top of him. He pulled him up off of his body and lowered him slowly onto his thick shaft. His hands continued to hold Spike’s ribcage, helping him balance as he began to move. Angelus allowed Spike to brace himself against his broad chest as he drove upwards into his childe’s willing, pain-wracked body.

Spike knew from long experience what this really meant. They both did. It meant that Angelus was re-claiming him – exerting his sire’s authority without apology or restraint. And when he was satisfied that his childe had submitted to him completely, the rewards – for both of them – would be mind-blowing.

Spike’s eyes locked on his sire’s, all the love and all the pain he felt welling up and pouring out through his gaze. It took every ounce of control he had left, but he managed to get the words out.

“I love you, Sire. I am yours. I have always been yours. I will always be yours.”

He felt Angelus still as his words penetrated. He whimpered softly, but his gaze did not falter. He resolutely held those dark eyes with his own. Balancing as well as he could, trusting that Angelus would not let him fall, Spike moved one hand up to cup his sire’s cheek. “I love you, Angelus,” he said, his voice firm, though his body was shaking.

“I love you, too, William,” Angelus answered him. Suddenly, in a flash of vampiric speed, Angelus sat up, turning so that he was on the side of the bed, feet on the floor. He was still deep inside his childe, his arms tight around Spike’s body, holding him close. “Wrap your legs around me, Childe,” he ordered, reinforcing his dominance. When Spike instantly complied, he continued. “Now give me your throat.”

Spike immediately tilted his head to the side, laying it lightly against Angelus’ shoulder, and waited for the sharp fangs to pierce his pale skin. When they did, he sighed in relief. Only seconds later, he felt Angelus pulse within him, and then cool, soothing, wetness flooded his sensitive internal tissues.

“Yours,” he whispered and began to purr in answer to the low rumble emanating from his sire.

Angelus drained him almost to the point of danger before he removed his fangs and allowed the wound to seal. Spike wasn’t shaking anymore. He was barely conscious. Angelus lifted Spike off of his softening cock and stood, cradling his childe in his arms for a long moment before helping him onto the bed and drawing the covers over him. “Sleep, Childe,” he commanded gently, kissing his cheek. “I’ll take care of you. And when you wake, all will be well.”

Spike sighed pressing toward the kiss and finally allowing himself the complete rest his battered body needed to recover from the unaccustomed use of the last twenty-four hours.

Angelus sat in the chair and watched as his precious boy slipped in the deep healing sleep he needed so desperately. Soon he would head downstairs for blood and, once he had glutted himself on the the less than appetizing animal variety available, he would return and feed his William from his own body. He would be at full strength tonight when they left the hotel to hunt and play. He knew beyond any doubt that Spike *was* his. The younger vampire had proven his true devotion in the moment he begged to stay with him even if it meant giving up the vengeance he craved.

Angelus’ eyes narrowed. The witch would pay. And once she was dead – or turned, he wasn’t sure which yet – there would be no one to work that accurséd spell. He and his childer would be safe. And there would be more before he sought out the witch. He would not face her without several strong childer at his side. Childer who would bow both to him and to his sweet William. For Spike would never submit to another – nor would he ask him to. Spike was his and his alone, no matter who shared their bed.

There was no one else on Earth who could claim Spike’s submission like this. Not even Darla or Drusilla. Drusilla had turned him, but Angelus was his sire in every other way, and as *her* sire, he had full sire’s rights. And as Angelus’ sire, Darla had the right, but not the will. She knew that in claiming Will, forcing him to give her this level of submission, she would lose both him and her precious Angelus. Since she couldn’t bear that possibility, she has little choice but to let the two of them be.

Spike had always considered Angelus his true sire. And Drusilla had as well. She might be completely mad, but she had the sense to know that Spike had never truly been hers. He had always belonged to Angelus, just as she did. But she also knew something Spike did not. *He* was always the favorite. *He* was the one Angelus truly *loved*.

Darla had seen it from the first. She had instinctively known from the moment she met him that this beautiful boy was her only real competition for Angelus’ affections – his love. That was the real reason she didn’t like him at first. That was why she wanted Angelus to stake him. She could have done it herself, of course, but if Angelus did it, it would cement the bond between them and deny any future competition as well. But he didn’t do it. Couldn’t? Wouldn’t? Neither of them ever really knew, but it was the beginning of the end.

Everyone thought it was his soul that divided them, and in the end, it was, but it began long before the gypsy curse.

It began with a young would-be poet named William.

Spike awoke sprawled over Angelus, with his head tucked comfortably under his sire’s chin. One cool arm was draped over him, hand resting gently in the small of his back while the other had slipped down to rest on the bed, elbow bent and fingers still curled lightly in his hair. He felt strong and protected all at once. He realized that Angelus must have fed him Sire’s blood while he slept.

He sat up quickly, rolling off of Angelus.

For a horrified moment, he thought he had gone too far – that Angelus was in torpor – but then a hand reached out to draw him back, and he relaxed against his sire’s side, head tucked firmly against his chest as the rumbling purr began, soothing him.

When Angelus woke, it was to the feel of the sun setting and the ding of the microwave. He took a shallow breath to scent the warm blood on the air. No matter how many times he claimed he didn’t breathe, it wasn’t, strictly speaking, true. The sense of smell required a certain amount of breathing. Speech required breath as well. And singing? Well, that wasn’t something Angelus planned to do anyway... He had more pride than Angel.

He smiled lazily, admiring the veiw, as Spike walked to the side of the bed holding two mugs. The dark blue silk boxers made Spike’s crystal eyes seem to darken to a pale sapphire. Just the way passion did.

Spike smiled and handed Angelus a mug.

Angelus sat up slowly, turning so Spike was standing directly in front of him, and took the mug. Choking down animal blood was repugnant, but he was in need of some kind of sustenance. He set the empty mug on the bedside table and pulled Spike’s face down for a hard, quick kiss before commenting.

“We need to go out. Find a decent meal.”

“Not to mention lube,” Spike grinned. “Probably ought to buy a case at the rate we’re going through it.”

Angelus smiled back. “I know just the place. Believe it or not, Angel shopped there. It’s called Cassy’s. It’s actually perfect for our needs. She carries toys of all kinds, too. I’m sure we can find something to interest us.”

He paused and tossed Spike a sly look. “I know what I want to get you.”

Spike raised an eyebrow. “I won’t wear a collar, Angelus. Not even for you.”

Angelus snorted. “Of course not. I would never ask you to. Well, not unless we were playing a game of some kind. But that’s not what I had in mind, lover.” His arms snaked out and large hands grabbed Spike’s hips, yanking him flush against Angelus’ body. Long fingers trailed down Spike’s legs, playing against the midnight-blue silk. Then one hand moved to gently massage his sac while the other slid over his buttocks seeking the entrance to his body. Fingertips tapped lightly against Spike’s anus.

The sensation of silk brushing against his most vulnerable flesh, had Spike moaning in seconds. Angelus grinned against his stomach and nipped at the bare flesh. He pushed carefully inward with a fingertip. He didn’t want to tear the silk. Spike bucked against him. Angelus laughed.

“Imagine,” he whispered against Spike’s chest, “All the while we’re out hunting, playing, you are holding something for me. Something deep inside you, where I want to be. Where you want me to be.” Spike groaned and threaded his fingers through Angelus’ hair, holding him close. “I want to buy you a nice butt plug,” Angelus smiled. “I want to you wear it tonight while we hunt. Just for tonight, I want to know that it’s there, inside you, every moment I’m not.” Spike shivered. “Just for tonight,” Angelus assured him, looking up to meet ice blue eyes. “Maybe other times, as well, but not often. Only when I need you this much.”

Spike looked at him, hurt in his eyes.

“I always need you, Spike. I love you,” Angelus said quickly. “But right now, after so long apart, I wouldn’t even go out for blood if there was a decent vintage in the hotel. But we both need it, Will.” He got that soft, faraway look in his eyes that said he was remembering the way things used to be. His rich brogue filtered through, thickening as he continued. “We need ta hunt together an’ feed together an’ fuck together. In that order. The probl’m is, I don’t want ta be apart from ya fer that long. I want ta fuck ya now and prob’ly ever’ ten minutes we’re out. But I canna be pullin’ ya inta ever’ alleyway we pass, now can I? So this is the next best thing. And if it gets too much, an’ I need ya withou’ delay, or vice versa, *then* we can duck inta the nearest alley an’ I’ll pull the thing from ya and fuck ya to our hearts’ content. ’Course, I’ll be putting it back when I’m done wi’ ya, m’boyo. I want ya wearin’ it an’ thinkin’ o’ me inside you all the while.”

Spike groaned. “Now, Angelus! I want you inside me now. I can’t wait until we find a convenient alley. I need you before we leave, too.”

“Ah, m’precious boy.” Angelus’ long, limber fingers slipped blue silk down Spike’s legs, freeing his rampant erection. “Were ya thinkin’ we’d be leavin’ before I saw to our need?”

Spike groaned again as Angelus’ lips closed over him. His fingers tightened in the dark hair as he tried not to thrust into that welcoming mouth.

Angelus drew back and looked up at his boy. Spike whimpered when his sire’s mouth left him. His head was thrown back, eyes clenched shut with the effort to maintain control.

“Will.” Blue eyes, glazed with passion, fluttered open to meet his. “Let go. Don’t try to control it, boy. Yer mine. I’m wantin’ all your passion. Give it to me, Will. I won’ let ya fall.”

Spike drew in a shuddering breath and nodded. “Love you,” he whispered. Angelus smiled up at him and lowered his mouth back to the hard flesh waiting for it. Spike gasped. He didn’t hold back this time. He thrust and whimpered and moaned, giving Angelus all the sounds and passion he craved. Angelus stroked up Spike’s back with one hand, petting him, as he swallowed Spike deep.

Spike shouted his name as he came.

Spike rubbed lightly at his backside. The light bruising was already fading. He was still a bit tender, though. He smiled at the thought. He had cum the second time without a single touch. All he had needed was Angelus – big hands gripping his hips, big cock pounding in and out of his body at just the right angle – and that lovely bite at just the right moment.

Angelus walked out of the bathroom wearing only a towel. Noting Spike’s smile, he raised his eyebrows. Spike’s grin only grew wider. Angelus gave him a look that said ‘you’d better start explaining before I come tickle it out of you.’ Spike giggled. Yes. Giggled. He would admit that to himself. But *only* to himself.

“Just thinking about the way you feel inside me.”

“Damn, Spike! Don’t say things like that when we’re trying to get dressed.” He gave Spike a grin of his own. “Save them for when we’re getting undressed!”

Spike groaned.

“Can’t help it, Peaches. Love you.”

Angelus dropped the towel and pounced.

“We are never going to leave this room, are we?” Angelus groaned, resigned.

“Can’t see it happenin’, no,” Spike smirked.

“Well, damn.” Angelus sat up quickly, rolling out of bed and to his feet. He rummaged through a few drawers gathering clothes before he went back into the bathroom and slammed the door. Quickly washing up, he carefully dried himself before yanking on the silk boxers, silk shirt and leather pants – all black. He slammed back out into the bedroom looking for his socks and boots.

As he put them on, he glanced over at Spike. “You didn’t come all the way down here without even a change of clothes, did you?”

“’Course not!” Spike snorted. “Brought ever’thing I own, I did.”

Angelus raised his eyebrows again. Spike grinned. “Car’s in the parking garage. Stuff’s in the trunk and backseat. Oh… And my telly’s in the front seat.”

“Good,” Angelus said gruffly, looking away. “I’ll bring your things up while you shower.”

“I guess we can figure out where you’ll put me later, huh?”

“*What?*” Angelus almost shouted.

“What?” Spike demanded innocently. “I *am* staying, right?”

“Damn right, you’re staying!” Angelus stalked over to Spike, fury on his face. “You’re staying right here. With *me*. In *this* room.” He kissed Spike possessively. “*Forever!* Got it? You’re *mine!*”

Spike was shaking when Angelus let him go, but not from fear. “I’ve always been yours, love. Even when you were Darla’s.”

“It was never my choice to be Darla’s.”

“Sire’s Right...” Spike grumbled softly.

“Exactly.” Angelus turned his back and took a few steps toward the sitting room. “A mating by Sire’s Right is isn’t complete without the full consent of the childe. Did you know that?”

“No.” His tone was almost belligerent. He didn’t want to talk about Darla. Or mating. He knew his own Sire hadn’t wanted him that much. He could only hope that one day Angelus would.

“It isn’t.” Angelus fisted his hands at his sides, but he didn’t turn back to face his lover. “Can you imagine what Angel staking her would have done to me if our mating had been true?”

He forced himself to relax before he continued.

“It’s why she was so slow to accept you. She knew I’d never truly be hers. And she saw immediately that you *could* win my heart.” He smiled at the soft gasp behind him. “She was very intuitive. It was part of her strength. I always admired her. I even loved her. But I was never what she wanted me to be – her mate. I think Angel staked her as much to prove that as to protect his little slayer. He hated her as much as he loved her.”

“*Angel* loved Darla?”

Angelus smiled. “Surprised? He loved you all. But you were his favorite,” he finally turned to face Spike, “just as you have always been mine, Will.”

“Really?”

Angelus’ eyes were soft with emotion. “Really. It was one thing we always agreed on. We both loved you – all of you... But you most of all.”

“So,” Spike asked idly, “do you have a safe or a vault around here somewhere?” They were in the parking garage, preparing to unload the rest of Spike’s belongings. Angelus had refused to bring anything else up alone. The steamer trunk was sitting on the ground where he had pulled it out of the car to get to the duffle bags.

“Why?”

“Ummm…” Spike hesitated. “Well, you see… I was wandering around under Sunnydale one day and I stumbled across something – well – interesting, to say the least.” Spike shot Angelus a grin and unlocked the steamer trunk.

When he opened it, Angelus gasped. Then he smiled. “Well done, Childe.” He reached in and grabbed a handful up, letting it slide through his fingers back into the trunk. “Lock it back up. We’ll put it in the hotel vault. I’m the only one who knows the combination. I’m not sure the others even know it’s there. There *is* a small safe, but that’s all I’ve shown them.”

“There’s more,” Spike smirked. Angelus’ eyes widened. Spike opened the car trunk and emptied it quickly. “This trunk is filled with books. Some are pretty ancient. Even you might not have them.” Angelus snorted. Spike pointed to the three chests. “These, on the other hand, are filled with treasure. This one is loose gems. This one is gold. And this one is simple, timeless jewelry. Everything in the steamer trunk is too ornate or obviously antique to be useful,” he shrugged. “I also have a small bag of loose gems in one of the bags upstairs. It’s my emergency fund.”

“Will,” Angelus sighed, “you amaze me, boy.”

They carried the treasure into the lobby and stored it away in the vault. The trunk of books was stashed in the library, before they headed back down to the garage.

“Wesley will be pleased,” Angelus noted casually.

“Pleased, hell!” Spike returned. “He'd sell his grandmother to the bloody Rom for some of those. There are books in that trunk so rare – even those wankers on the watchers’ council don’t have a copy.”

Angelus chuckled, shaking his head. He shrugged on his black leather jacket as they climbed into his convertible.

Spike tapped his fingers idly on the car door as Angelus drove. He was, as usual, vibrating with barely contained energy. Angelus took it in stride. That tightly wound exuberance was one of the things he loved about William.

“Music! We should turn on the radio!” Spike announced, reaching for the knobs.

Angelus shook his head. “It doesn’t work.” Spike drew his hand back and looked at him in shocked silence. Angelus winced. “Sorry. I just haven’t had the time – or inclination – to get it fixed. It isn’t high on my list of priorities.”

Spike sat back in his seat and turned to face forward. Angelus sighed in defeat. “Alright. I’ll get it fixed. I promise.”

Spike grinned. Angelus rolled his eyes.

As Angelus pulled into the parking spot directly in front of the store, Spike sighed in disbelief. “You really are a lucky bastard. All this traffic and you get the space right out front.”

Angelus just smiled – that wicked smile that said, ‘Of course. I’m evil!’ Spike kissed it.

“Come on. Let’s go inside. I can’t wait to show you off. Cassy’s gonna love you.”

“Ooh. Does that mean I get to flirt outrageously?”

“Certainly. Do whatever you want. Just remember. She’s *not* on the menu. I like her store too much.”

Spike smirked and sauntered into the store, full swagger, duster snapping around him.

Angelus just shook his head with a tolerant laugh and followed.

Cassy was leaning against the counter thumbing through the newest sales catalogue from Spartacus Leather™ when she heard the door jingle. She glanced up casually, then straightened quickly, trying to catch her breath. ‘He’s a vision. He’s divine! Must breathe!’ she told herself.

She was so enthralled with Spike that she didn’t even notice Angelus walk in behind him. Spike tilted his head and gave her a seductive smirk as strong arms slid around his waist, pulling him close. Angelus’ chin dropped to his shoulder. “See. I told you she’d like you.”

Cassy tried to speak, but no words came. Spike stepped out of Angelus’ embrace and cupped her cheek with his hand. “You alright, luv?”

“Uh-huh,” she nodded, green eyes wide.

Spike licked his lips. “Lovely hair, you’ve got there, pet. I always did fancy redheads.” She just swallowed as his hands slipped into her hair and his eyes raked her lithe curves. “Nice,” he said, all syrup and sex. “Wanna play?”

Cassy shivered. Angelus cleared his throat. “Angel!” Cassy said, jumping back, startled. “I’m sorry. I didn’t see you come in.”

Angelus shrugged. “A common phenomenon when my boy, here, is in the room. Delicious, isn’t he?”

“Lord, yes!” Cassy sighed. Her eyes flitted nervously between the two vampires.

“Ah, now, don’t worry, luv,” Spike assured her gently. “Angel, here, loves to watch me flirt with beautiful ladies such as yourself.” Cassy glanced at Angelus who smiled, eyes smouldering with passion. She blushed a very becoming shade of pink. Spike raised her hand to his lips and kissed it gently. “I understand you have quite an inventory. Care to help us with our choices?”

Cassy smiled, biting at her lower lip. “It would be my pleasure,” she purred. She led them over to the first rack of leathers. “Where would you like to start?”

Spike was loading their purchases into the trunk when Angelus came up behind him.

“One more thing,” he whispered. “Come back inside.”

Spike raised his eyebrows, closed the trunk and followed his sire back into the shop.

Cassy handed Angelus a small bag and a key and ushered them to the back of the store. “So, Angel, let me know if you need any… help,” she whispered flirtatiously.

“Care to stay and watch?” he challenged. Spike’s eyes went wide for a moment, emotions flashing rapidly across his face, before finally settling into a speculative leer.

Cassy sighed. “Wouldn’t I just love to!” Then she whispered conspiratorially, “But I make it a practice never to get sexually involved with vampires. You never know what could happen in the heat of passion.”

Angelus looked at her in shock. “You know?”

Cassy rolled her eyes. “Well, duh, Angel. Maybe you haven’t noticed – this shop is full of mirrors.”

“Right.”

Spike kissed Cassy’s cheek and pushed Angelus toward the store’s combination bathroom/dressing room with a laugh. “Come on, then, Sire. Let’s get on with it, shall we?”

“Uh-huh. Sure.”

The room was large as dressing rooms go. Hell, it was large as most public bathrooms go. And it was spotless. It had a wide, padded bench, a toilet and sink with a pump bottle of antibacterial toy cleaner.

There was also a sign on the door that read: Failure to clean up any mess you may make will result in loss of in-store bathroom privileges.

Angelus unwrapped his purchase and washed it thoroughly.

“Uh, not really gonna catch anything, pet,” Spike reminded him with a quirk of his eyebrow.

“So? Do you know how many people have touched this thing? I want it clean when it touches what’s mine.”

“Well, if you’re gonna put it that way…” Spike grinned.

“Just get your pants down, would you?”

Spike laughed as he unbuckled his belt and pants and then lowered them past his slim hips. “Where do you want me?”

“On the bench. On your knees.”

Spike was quick to comply.

Angelus opened the bottle of lube and drizzled it down his fingers. He moved his other hand down Spike’s butt, caressing as he gently slid two fingers into the waiting body. Angelus stretched carefully, playing with Spike’s prostate. Spike moaned frantically. “Don’t cum.” The voice was soft, but the words were iron. “Don’t cum.”

Spike groaned. Angelus covered the butt plug with lube and carefully began to insert it.

Spike gasped, “It’s warm!”

“Yes, well, I washed it with hot water. It tends to retain heat. It *is* stainless steel.”

“Which also explains why it feels so heavy.”

“Are you complaining, Childe?” Angelus asked, with a hint or retribution in his voice.

“No!” Spike assured him, quickly. “Not at all. Just making observations.”

“That’s good. I’d hate to have to punish you here. Right before we go find us some dinner.”

Spike shivered. Angelus had stopped moving. The plug was at it’s widest part. He closed his eyes and waited. He was tempted to breathe, or at least push back, but he didn’t want to risk angering his sire. Angelus’ moods were volatile at best.

Finally, Angelus slid the plug the rest of the way in. He carefully wiped up the excess lube so that Spike’s leather pants would not be stained. Then he pulled Spike to his feet and fastened his pants and belt. Placing a finger under Spike’s chin, he raised his childe’s eyes to meet his. “You did well, Will.” He lowered his face and kissed his childe passionately.

“If I hadn’t seen it,” Spike whispered, “it would have been harder.”

“I know.” Angelus gently stroked his cheek. “That’s why I let you see it.”

Spike smiled.

Angelus smiled back. “Shall we go out and play?”

“By all means, Sire.”

Angelus led Spike back through the store, thanking Cassy as they passed.

She smiled and waved as she helped another customer. Angel was always welcome. And tonight he had spent a lot of money. His orders would be coming in all next week. She grinned as she thought about her week’s profit margin. She grinned wider as she thought about Angel and Spike actually *using* the toys, equipment and case of lube they had purchased. “Oh to be a fly on the wall…” she whispered.

“I can’t believe I let you talk me into this!” Vigdis said, rolling her eyes. She was wearing a black leather mini-skirt and vest with a very small halter that barely covered her large breasts. “I mean, look at me! Do I *look* like a man in drag? I don’t *think* so. So why do all these gay guys keep hitting on me? This is *SO* not fair.”

A hand dropped onto her shoulder. “Hey, babe,” the stranger started only to be cut off by James.

“Hands off my girl, buster!”

“Sorry!” the man’s gaze swept over James, taking in his tight, faded 501's, chaps, Harley boots, and slashed black sleeveless t-shirt. He backed off with a snooty glare.

“Thanks. And, James?”

“Yes, Vig?”

“I love you dearly, but when you promised me a night I would never forget, I was sort of hoping for some wild animal luvin’. Ya know what I mean? All these gorgeous guys are *gay*. The only reason they’re looking at me at all is because they think I’m in drag.” She dropped her face into her hands. “How utterly humiliating!”

“Now, Vigdis, don’t feel bad. There are lots of men who look as pretty as you in drag.”

Vigdis lifted her eyes to glare at him.

“Ouch!” James winced. “Sorry. I didn’t mean it like that. I meant you’re very pretty and…”

“Yes, James?” Vigdis asked, coldly.

“Maybe I better just shut up.”

“Good idea,” she grated out.

“Your boots are really very nice.”

“Thanks,” she returned wryly.

“No, really. I like them.”

“You should. You picked them out for me last month at that cute little leather shop down the street.”

“Cassy’s?”

“That’s the one.” Vigdis sighed and sat back up with a shrug. “If another guy hits on me, he better mean it. ’Cause if he isn’t at least bi, I’m slugging him.”

James laughed. “Sulk, sulk, sulk.”

“Oh! Go ahead. Laugh. Next month I’m dressing you up in drag and taking you to a lesbian leather bar. We’ll see how much *you* like it.

“Uh, Vig? You’re not a lesbian.”

“No? Well I’m not a gay *man* in drag either.”

“You’re really not taking this well.”

“James! We have been getting together at least once a month since college. We are 27 years old. Now maybe it doesn’t matter so much to *you*, but *I’m* ready to start looking for someone to settle down with. And I am *not* going to find him at at *gay leather bar*!”

“Point taken. I just thought you would like the change of pace. I mean we always go to the newest ‘anything goes’ club. And you’re always asking about what I do and where I go when you’re not with me…”

Vigdis blushed. James could tell even in the darkness of the club. “You’re right,” she confessed, shaking her head. “I am interminably curious and I badger you incessantly. I’m sorry. I should just play along and enjoy myself.” She smirked and a mischievous twinkle came into her eyes. “I mean, imagine if I do dance with some of these guys and one of them cops a feel?”

James burst out laughing at the thought. “Is this where I say, ‘You *go* girl’?”

Vigdis giggled uncontrollably. Finally catching her breath, she asked, “So what do you think the chances are? I mean, I just wish at least one of these gorgeous guys was at least bi!”

“Wish granted, luv,” came a voice as smooth as silk. Vigdis looked up into crystal blue eyes. James gasped. The blonde looking down at them was pure walking sex. And the big guy behind him was… amazing.

“Please,” Vigdis murmured, looking up at him through her eyelashes, “*do* join us.” She raised her head and finally saw Angelus. Dark eyes seemed to pierce right through her. “I’m Vigdis and he’s James. What are your names?”

“The giant, there, is Angelus and me… I’m called Spike,” he answered, slipping into the seat beside her.

“Spike, huh?” Her eyes traveled up and down his wiry muscles. “Wherever did you get a nickname like that?” she asked, trailing her fingers lightly across his chest.

“Maybe,” he told her with a wicked leer, “if you’re a very, very bad girl, I’ll show you.”

“Promise?” she leaned toward him, licking her lips. Spike grinned and kissed her hard and fast and then came back for slow and easy. “Mmmm…” Vigdis sighed.

“Variety *is* the spice of life.”

“So they tell me,” she grinned. “How do you feel about dancing?”

Spike returned her grin and offered her his hand. “Come on, pet. Let’s show these poufs how it’s done.”

She slid into his arms, with a backward glance over her shoulder at James. He smiled encouragingly and got down to the serious flirting with Angelus.

“Angelus. That’s an interesting name. I’ve never heard it before.”

“Rumor has it I have a face like an Angel. Apparently the idea stuck.”

“So, are you and Spike a couple or…”

“Let’s just say we… hunt… together.”

“Ooh. Sounds… primal.”

Angelus leaned in with a husky sigh, “You wouldn’t believe it.”

“Try me.”

“Oh, I intend to.”

“You think I’m what you’re looking for?”

“I think you look like you could satisfy my craving.”

“I’ll certainly try. You appear to be a man with a big appetite.”

“As they say in the fairytale,” Angelus leered, “all the better to eat you with.”

James grinned at him. “Shall we join our friends on the dance floor?”

“Certainly,” Angelus answered smoothly. “I can’t wait to feel you against me.”

“Well, then,” James stood and offered Angelus his hand, “what are we waiting for?”

“So,” Vigdis said happily, “are you both bi, or just you?” She was held tightly against Spike’s lean body, her head snuggled into his shoulder as they swayed to the music.

“Both of us, pet,” Spike answered easily. He was watching the expert way Angelus was flirting with James.

“So, what’s next?”

“Just consider this the appetizer, pet. The real meal comes later.”

She smiled contentedly, at that.

The beat of the music changed and they moved into a sensuous slide that looked like something out of *Dirty Dancing™*. Vigdis let herself go. She felt secure in those deceptively strong arms.

Angelus held James against him. Grinding, rubbing, sliding. James felt so small next to that massive chest. Angelus was more than a little overwhelming. Still, who in their right mind would pass up this chance to be with him? Even if it was only for one night…

James gave himself over to the music and the night and the man who held him.

Someone tried to cut in, but Angelus shoved him away lightly, sending him tumbling across the dance floor.

James never noticed.

He was so caught up in Angelus’ magnetism that the world around them seemed to disappear. All that remained were those dark eyes, that broad chest and that hard body pressed so tightly against him.

It could have been minutes or hours later when Angelus led him back toward the table.

Spike saw them leave the dance floor and guided Vigdis back to where her friend was standing with Angelus. She hugged James and whispered, “This was your best idea ever!”

A soft, sensual smile melted across Spike’s face and one slender hand reached out to her. “You two wanna go off somewhere more private with me and m’mate, here?”

She took Spike’s hand and murmured, “Uh-huh. You coming, James?”

James grinned. “I wouldn’t miss it.”

Angelus smiled as he slipped his arm around James’ waist and led them out to his car.

Spike and Vigdis made out in the back seat almost all the way to the hotel. James kept glancing wistfully back at them, until Spike pulled him over the seat into the back with them. Fortunately, they were at a stoplight. Spike pinned James against the car door and kissed him savagely. Vigdis watched, fascinated, until Angelus turned into the garage and parked. Then it was his turn. He pulled her out of the car and into his arms. His kiss was excruciatingly gently. When it ended, she was breathless. Spike and James were watching, eyes hot.

Angelus smiled softly at Spike and nudged Vigdis toward him. “Voluptuous, isn’t she?”

“She’s just what I wanted, Peaches. Just what I wanted.” He pulled her into his arms and kissed her thoroughly, her breasts pressed firmly against his hard chest.

James gasped at the erotic savagery of it.

When the kiss ended, Angelus led them up the to the lobby.

“Wow. This place is beautiful.” Vigdis glanced at the vacant desk and asked, “Where’s the staff?

“No staff, pet,” Spike answered casually. “The great Irish pouf over there owns the place.”

“Really? How nice. And you live here?” she continued. Vigdis was good at chatter.

James was looking around, trying not to be impressed.

Spike grinned at the girl. She was looking yummier by the minute. He wondered if his sire felt the same about the man.

Angelus’ arms slipped possessively around James from behind and pulled him close. He raised his eyes to meet Spike’s.

Taking the cue, Spike pulled Vigdis into his arms once more, his eyes never leaving his sire’s. He kissed her gently, leaving her breathless, once more, then he shifted into gameface.

James jumped, but Angelus’ arms were like steel bands holding him in place. He tried to shout a warning to Vigdis as Spike’s fangs flashed down slicing through her slender throat, but no sound came out. Then he felt Angelus’ fangs slice into his own throat… and he understood why Vigdis wasn’t struggling.

He felt himself relax into the vampire’s embrace. His knees were like putty. He found himself wondering why they had set aside their rule about never going home with strangers. Why it had never even crossed their minds.

And then he was gone.

Angelus made his way slowly down the hall to Fred’s room. Spike was getting Cordy comfortable in the room next to theirs. Sure, she was unconscious – or dead, as the case may be – but there’s tossed in a corner, dead, and there’s laid out on a nice comfy bed, dead.

Guess which one would put Queen C in a better mood…

Angelus tapped on Fred’s door. “Fred,” he called softly. “It’s me. Would you open the door, please?”

“Where’s Cordy?” she called through the door.

“She’s with Spike. I didn’t want to leave him alone.”

“Oh. Okay, then.” The door opened, just a crack, and she peeked out. “Do I have to come out?”

“Yeah. I think you’d better.”

She seemed to collapse a little. She was doing so much better since her parents came to visit, but she still had relapses. He smiled in encouragement. “Do you know, Spike thinks you’re kittenish? I wouldn’t be surprised if he starts calling you ‘Kitten’.”

“Really?” Fred opened the door hesitantly. “Cuz I think I’d like that,” she admitted with a tentative smile.

“Good.” He held out his hand. “Come with me.”

“Okay,” she whispered, and placed her hand in his.

He led her back down the hall to his room.

“Where are Spike and Cordy?” she asked, worried.

“They’re in the next room. They wanted us to be able to talk privately.”

“About what?” Fred was really nervous now.

“About Cordy’s vision.”

“Oh, that,” she blushed.

“Yes, that,” Angelus said calmly. “Do you know what she saw?”

“She said I was in danger from a demon, but that’s all she said.”

Angelus nodded. “Don’t worry, Fred,” he said, pulling her gently into his arms. “I’ll protect you.”

“I know you will,” Fred smiled against his chest.

He eyes widened in shock as Angelus kissed her – a sweet gentle kiss, promising all things she was told he couldn’t give. She tried to pull away, but he held her tight.

“Fred!” he said intently. “Be still. It’s going to be alright.”

“It is?”

He looked into her eyes. “Yes, Fred. It is.”

She gasped as he shifted into gameface. She didn’t even have time to scream before his fangs were buried in her throat. Panic welled up inside her, but Angelus caressed her soothingly as he drank her blood. Finally, just as she was sure she was about to die, he turned her in his arms. Slicing through his own wrist, he placed it to her mouth, telling her to drink. His cool blood filled her mouth and she swallowed frantically. He murmured his approval, soft, against her ear, until she went limp in his arms.