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Hey all, here's the second part to my Halloween fic (heh). I have the third and final part back, and I'm planning on posting it tonight or tomorrow some time. Huge props to ![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
adis723 for the hard work she put into it. Also, a shout out to mpoetess for introducing me to the song, "The Truth About You," as sang by Mark Weigle.
Title: Secrets and Cages (pt. 2)
Author:chocgood84 (chocgood84 @ livejournal.com)
Pairing: Spike/Xander
Rating: PG-13 (this part)
Notes: AU, schmoop, sex, and drugs.
Previous Part found here.
Disclaimer: I don’t own Spike, Xander, or Buffy the Vampire Slayer. If I did, this wouldn’t be fanfic, it’d be canon. These belong to Mutant Enemy and its creator, Joss Whedon. No harm, no foul.
Xander woke the next day sometime after noon, judging by the placement of the autumn sun. At first his entire body went into panic mode once he realized someone had their arms around him. But then he remembered the night before, and his heartbeat returned to normal. Or as normal as it could when he was wrapped up in Spike’s arms.
Hey, gotta give Faith props for that, Xander thought while trying to pry himself out of Spike’s grasp without waking the vampire. She not only knows how to use someone to get her rocks off, she also leaves a lasting impression.
At long last, Xander managed to emerge from the tent as quietly and carefully as possible to not let the sunlight in, shivering at the even colder wind that had come down from the mountains. He hobbled quickly, bouncing from one socked foot to the other to get to the edge of the clearing.
He had just gotten his jeans unzipped and felt that oh-so-nice feeling of the morning piss when he hear Spike calling for him.
“Xander, where’d you go, love?”
“I’m out here doing what humans have to do, Spike. Or don’t you remember?”
“Well hurry up, pet, it’s cold, and I miss you.” Xander almost laughed out loud at the urgency in Spike’s sleep-addled voice. He finished up, zipped himself back into his jeans, and hobbled back to the tent.
“Get under the sleeping bag, Spike” He called out, unzipping the flap. Charred vampire equals bad bedmate, he thought.
Once inside, he got back under the warm nylon and polyester, and curled back up against his vampire. Hmph, my vampire. Sounds kinda nice. Spike immediately reentangled himself with Xander, who took in the strong arms around him once more, smiling to himself.
****
When Xander next woke, the light striking the outside of the tent was golden, bordering on violet. He gave a heavy sigh, knowing that the party was fast approaching. Bet they don’t even know they’re going to a coming-out party, he snickered.
Again, he managed to get out of the tent without waking the sleeping vampire, this time remembering his boots and hoodie. He zipped up the flap behind him, more for courtesy than necessity, now that the sun was on the horizon.
A half an hour later, the sun had sunk below the horizon but light still pierced the sky, and Spike emerged from the tent, his hair resembling more of something on a bleached hedgehog than a century-old Englishman. He had his duster draped around his shoulders, his Docs were untied, and he was rubbing his eyes with his fists like a four year old after his nap. Xander had to try very hard not laugh at the sight before him.
“Coffee” or something like it came mumbling out of his mouth, and Xander had a cup ready for him. Spike took it, placing a tender kiss on Xander’s cheek, which made the boy blush like a virgin on his wedding night. He plopped himself down into the chair, which aside from the tent and the tin mug, was the only thing not packed up.
Xander pulled an unused block of firewood and sat in front of the almost-woken up vampire, smiling like he was Charlie and Spike was a big Wonka Bar.
The smile was contagious though, and soon Spike found himself mirroring the same big stupid grin. Neither man said anything, but enjoyed the comfortable silence. Seemed like neither one had to say anything.
Finally, Spike finished his coffee, and handed the mug to Xander. He bent over, tying his Doc Martens, and shrugged his arms into his duster.
Xander placed the mug into his knapsack, collapsed the chair, and went to tackle the tent when Spike caught him by the arms and spun him around to face him. Before he knew what was happening, Xander leaned into Spike’s embrace.
Forehead met forehead, eyes catching eyes and then closing. The slow tilt of the head, the soft pleasure as lips caressed lips. Xander draped his arms around Spike’s waist and pressed into the shorter man. Mouths opened to let each other in, and they each found themselves exploring the other for the first time, delighting in the sensuous feeling, tasting, memorization of the other.
Xander felt himself, and Spike as well, growing hard, and he broke away softly, tenderly. His forehead came to rest against Spike and again the staring game was played.
“Wow,” Xander whispered, and Spike just smiled.
A few minutes more of soft touches, fleeting caresses, and casual kisses, and they were both helping to tear down the tent and pack it into its little pouch. Xander threw that into the same bag as the chair, and tossed the bag to Spike.
“Oi! What’s this for?” He yelled back.
“What, you think just because we’re sleeping together now,” Xander couldn’t help but blush, ”that I’m going to do all the work. Think not, my breath-challenged friend. Besides, you slept in it, you can carry it!”
Spike opened his mouth to protest, but knew it would go nowhere, so he just pretended like he was yawning, and said nothing. He fished out a smoke from his duster and lit it, enjoying that first inhale of the night. He exhaled slowly, loving that bittersweet burning sensation coursing through his body.
“Ready, Spike?” Xander asked. Spike nodded, carrying the bag over to where Xander stood, knapsack on, flipping open his cell phone.
“Shit! It’s almost seven, the party’s in two hours! I’ve still got to get ready, pick up Tara and Oz, and we’ve still got to find you a costume. Shit, shit, shit!” With that, Xander grabbed the handle on the cooler, and ran off, wheeling it behind him.
Spike’s cigarette fell to the ground, his mouth hanging open and a look of horror on his paler than usual face.
“Uh, Xander? Did you say costume?” Spike asked, grabbing the bag and running to catch up with his human.
****
Xander knocked on the door to Tara’s dorm room at exactly 8:15, as scheduled. Nice to see the soldier in me is good for something, he thought.
A couple of the frat boys on campus walked by, letting out a loud catcall, which made Spike whine even more.
“I cannot believe you talked me into wearing this bloody thing. I didn’t love you so bloody much, I’d fucking kill you for this. As it is, you owe me big!” Spike complained, pulling on the leather and blowing feathers out of his eyes.
Xander chuckled, taking in the sight. He was just about to respond with some witty repartee when the door opened.
“Xander!” She practically squealed, opening her arms and giving him a big hug. “You look great!” She said, stepping back to view the full ensemble.
“Thanks, Tara. You look gorgeous as always. But that dress is amazing.” Xander exclaimed, pointing out the gold sequined evening gown and laughing at the ‘seaweed’ in her hair. He made a spinning gesture, motioning for her to turn for him. “Such a great costume, I’m glad you could find that dress on such short notice.”
Tara blushed, but complied, giggling when Xander whistled at her.
“And who do we have – oh my, what a costume!” She said, noticing Spike not trying to hide behind Xander.
Xander stepped aside, not letting the vampire hide. He gave an evil grin as the vampire growled a little at him.
“Spike, this is Tara, and Tara, I’d like you to meet Spike.” He said, beaming.
Tara looked quizzically back and forth between Xander and Spike. After a quick second, understanding dawned, and she starting smiling as wide and bright Xander.
“So you’re the big bad, evil blood-sucking demon I’ve heard so much about,” she responded, extending her hand.
Spike seemed to preen just a bit, and smiled at Xander. He took Tara’s hand brought it up to kiss it, bowing gracefully. Kinda hard to be graceful in that get-up, Xander thought, but so fun to watch.
“One and the same, my dear.” Spike replied.
Who knew he could be so damned charming? Xander though, once more surprised by the vampire.
“So nice to finally meet you.”
“Likewise. Too bad it hadn’t been sooner.”
As if on cue, they both turned to Xander, who at this point had turned as red as his corsage.
“Heh, well, uh, we should probably go, right? Don’t want to be late” Xander said, sticking his finger between shirt and collar, obviously trying to search for a way out of his predicament.
“Sure, Xander, just let me grab my purse. Be right back,” and Tara disappeared back into her room.
“Nice girl,” Spike said, stepping close to Xander, whose heart was beating faster than a hamster doing a 10K wheeling.
“Heh. Yeah, she sure is, isn’t she?”
“How’d ya meet, again?”
“Oh, uh, after the whole thing with Oz blew up, he said I should check out the ‘Scarlet Letters,’ since it’s open to the community. So I did and we met. She’s just gr-”
“So, you been talking me up to her, huh?” Spike was inches away from Xander now, leaning in right next to Xander’s ear. The vibrations sent shivers of tingly pleasure all up and down Xander’s spine.
Gulp.
“Uh, yeah, maybe I mentioned you once or twice, you know, in passing.” Or you know, every time I talk to her.
“Really?” Spike asked, smirking like the Grinch. “Gonna have to talk about that later, pet. I think you’ve been kind of naughty.” He said, flicking out his tongue to lick Xander’s ear lobe.
Xander melted right there, into a large puddle of illiterate goo, repeating things like “Hummina”.
“Uh, Spike? Puddle boy? Are we ready or would you rather I go and you stay?” Tara asked, brandishing a matching gold sequined clutch and a black “mink” coat.
“Don’t mind if we use the place for a while, do ya, Glinda?” Spike asked. Xander rouged and then blanched and then stood up quite straight, fixing his cuffs.
“No!” Xander’s voice cracked. Decided to bring it down a little. “I mean no, we’re ready. Let’s go,” he said, leading the way.
On the way to the car, Tara and Spike fell behind a few feet and Xander couldn’t quite make out what they were saying. He did make out the words “cute” and “embarrassed” from the whispered conversation, though he couldn’t decide on the source or the context.
“Dear God, this is going to be a nightmare.” He muttered to himself.
****
“I just can’t get over the costume, man.” Oz said, still having a hard time not laughing hysterically at Spike. “I mean, come on. You have to admit, it’s one with the funny.”
“Ha bloody ha. Ta, mate,” Spike replied sarcastically. Xander and Tara exchanged smirks walking down the stairs to Giles’ place. “And can we bloody well hurry up, it’s cold out here. You’ve all got clothes on.”
“Shut up, Spike. You know you love the attention,” Xander retorted, remembering the truckers they’d encountered at the gas station on the way over. That would be a memory to keep Xander laughing until the Hellmouth froze over.
“Right,” Spike sneered. “Just bleedin hurry up there, mate.”
“You know, Spike, you probably could have worn a coat and carried the-“ Oz began.
“No, I bloody well couldn’t. It took almost an hour to get this stuff just right. All he had to do was hop into a tux and throw some mouse into his hair, and poof he’s James Bond. Granted, it’s a smashing gown you’ve got on, but seriously, how hard is it turn yourself into Ginger from Gilligan’s Island? Me, I had to-“
Spike was cut off by the three members of the group with pulses laughing hysterically at him. Xander’s laughter was cut off by a sharp pinch on his ass. He glared at Peroxide Perry, who was looking anywhere but at Xander and whistling innocently. And that’s a comforting thought…Spike being innocent.
They reached the door and Xander checked his watch: nine o’clock exactly. He pressed the button to ring the buzzer, quickly turning to face the group.
“Remember everyone, no saying anything about my gaydom and definitely no talking about Spike and I.” Everyone nodded their approval for the nth time that night.
The door swung open to find Buffy dressed as a slutty Snow White.
“Xander! And Oz!” She exclaimed, giving both of them a hug. “And a girl I don’t know!”
“I-I’m Tara,” she replied shyly.
Buffy scrutinized her for a moment, but then reached out to shake her hand. “Well, any friend of Xander’s is a friend of – Spike!?” She shrieked.
“Fuck off, slayer,” Spike muttered, no longer trying to hide behind a nearby bush.
“Oh. My. God.” Buffy squealed, in between huge draughts of laughter. She was actually clutching her sides. Spike flicked her off, which, in that costume, was a priceless vision. “Why are you even here, Spike?”
“So, uh, Buff? Party going on?” Xander asked, trying to take the slayer’s attention away from his vampire.
“Sure, right inside. Wouldn’t technically call it a party though; this is Giles’ place, after all.” She said, tears still in her eyes. But being the hostess she was, she lead them into Giles’ flat, which was actually quite packed with college kids.
Giles immediately met them at the door, quickly followed by Willow and Anya. Another round of introductions and laughter at Spike’s costume, and everyone dissipated back into the crowd. Oz, Anya and Buffy took off in one direction, while Willow and Giles made their way through the dancing throng into the kitchen to get some more Halloween treats.
“Your friends are nice, Xander,” Tara shouted to be heard over ‘The Monster Mash’.
“Then obviously you haven’t met them yet,” Spike interjected before Xander could reply. Xander glared at him, but realized he was probably right. The Scoobies weren’t exactly known for getting along with “outsiders”.
“Fuck this, I’m making my way to the booze.” Spike said, exasperated. “Want anything lov – er, Harris?”
Xander nodded and mouthed “whatever”, watching Spike’s white leather clad ass as he made his way across the room, trying not to lose any feathers.
“Mr. Giles certainly did a great job decorating in here. The place looks fantastic” Tara yelled into Xander’s ear.
“Thanks, but he didn’t do anything,” explained Anya as she passed by, presumably on the way to the kitchen as well.
“Me and Anya did all the work. All he did was mumble and mutter about ‘damned kids’ all night long.” Buffy said, trailing Anya.
“Well, still, it looks nice in here” Tara shouted after them, but by then they were gone.
Xander was just about to ask Tara if she wanted dance when Spike returned, drinks for everyone, quickly followed by Oz. The four of them made small talk for a bit. Every once in a while, Xander and Spike would make eye contact, and it would take one of the other two members of the conversation to bring them back to earth.
After a while, the four of them went out to the makeshift dance floor where Giles’ couch usually rests. The Scoobies soon joined them, save for Giles who was running around all over the flat trying to put coasters under drinks and save his rugs from nacho, punch, and beer stains. Ah, good old Giles, Xander thought.
****
Xander and Tara had found a nearby card table and some folding chairs and plopped down, sipping there drinks and watching the crowd jump and hop to the music. They sat and talked for a while.
“So, Spike is pretty hot, Xander,” Tara said, blushing slightly, though not nearly as red as Xander was.
“I know. He is, isn’t he?” Instinctively, Xander picked Spike out the crowd across the room. As if they’d established a psychic connection, Spike looked up from the intense conversation he was having with Oz.
Their eyes met, and everything went into slow motion. The bouncing of the ravers, the acrobatics of the “cool” dancers, the music; everything slowed to frames per second in Xander’s mind. Spike smiled that smile, and Xander couldn’t help but return it. His stomach was actually doing its own acrobatics, and Xander loved the feeling.
“…Xander, are you listening to me?” Tara broke the hypnosis.
“Uh, yeah, what?” Xander looked back to Tara, who was smiling almost as wide as he was. “Sorry, Tara. Guess I’m a little distracted.”
“Yeah, I think so. Geez, Xander, if this is how you are going to be, I think I liked you better when you were single and broken and calling me four times a day.” Tara said, laughing.
“Sorry, Tara.” Xander blushed even more.
“Relax, Xander, I’m just joking. It’s good to see you like this.” Tara reached out and put a hand over his. “You deserve it, you know? This friendship isn’t exactly one-sided. You’ve been there for me through a lot too. Need I bring up Manga?”
“Dear god, no. I told you, she wasn’t good enough for you. You were right to drop her.” Xander said, remembering how Tara’s ex used to treat her. Manga was the whole reason Tara became shy in the first place. She made her feel like crap and like she wasn’t worth anything. Thank God I haven’t run into her since they broke up. Words would have to be had.
“That’s what I mean. You helped me through that, and I’m here for you now.” The hand reached up and held Xander’s chin. She leaned forward and placed a kiss on his cheek. “I’m glad your happy, Xander. It looks good on you.”
Xander was again struck by how lucky he was to have someone like Tara in his life. He remembered back to four months ago when he’d first walked into the UCSD Scarlet Letter’s meeting. Half way through, he’d found Tara and they’d bonded the next night over egg rolls and Mai Tai. She’d dished about her then-current girlfriend, Manga, and he had confessed his entanglement with Oz. She told about her involvement in magicks, and then he dropped the bomb about the mysterious goings-on in Sunnydale. Been friends ever since.
“Thanks, Tara.” Was all Xander could manage to choke out.
The first lines to “Raspberry Swirl” came on, and Xander practically squeeled. He grabbed Tara’s hand and dragged her to the dance floor.
“I love this song!” He yelled into her ear, beginning to hop up and down, flailing his arms. Hmm…not so easy in a tux, he thought.
Tara looked at him, her face beet red, and took a big step back from him. Xander flashed that smile, and she shrugged and started dancing too. Damn, that’s gotta be hard in that gown. And I thought I had it bad.
They started flowing into an easy rhythm, and Xander forgot about everyone but the two of them, dancing and jumping to the music.
“Things are getting desperate
When all the boys can't be men
Everybody knows
I'm her friend
Everybody knows
I'm her man”
Xander and Tara’s eyes met, and they both started laughing so hard, they almost fell to the floor. As it was, they were drawing some attention. Out of the corner of his eye, he could see Spike watching him with a small grin. Obviously filing that into the blackmail folder, Xander decided.
Not to far away in the crowd, he could see Anya dancing with her beaux de jour, Willow and her current crush close by. Even Buffy was dancing with some guy she’d probably mentioned to Xander in passing. His hands were all over her, and Xander could tell she was enjoying it. Damn, hair flip and all, he thought, way to go, Buff.
Xander looked around for Oz, and found him over by the DJ’s table, flipping through the guy’s vinyl collection. Oz is nothing if not consistent, Xander thought, rolling his eyes.
On the last notes of the song, Xander slowed down.
“Everybody knows
I'm her man
Raspberry swirl...”
The song finally transitioned into some new Madonna, and Xander wrinkled up his nose. He leant close to Tara, yelling “I think I need to make a pit stop.”
Tara nodded, and pointed towards a tall lanky brunette who was talking to some guy Xander didn’t recognize over by the window.
“That’s Brenda, from the group,” she called loudly into his ear. “I’m gonna go and say hi.” Xander nodded and gave her the thumbs up, to which she rolled her eyes and waved.
Xander made his way towards the bathroom, and waiting for ten minutes before finally getting in. He checked his hair in the mirror, and straightened his bow tie, fixed his corsage.
He had just finished up and was washing his hands when the door burst open. He was about to yell at the intruder, when he noticed there was no reflection in the mirror. He grinned wide, turning to face Spike who closed and locked the door.
“Enjoying the party, pet?” Spike asked leaning in and placing his hands on the counter on either side of Xander, trapping Xander against the vanity. He leaned down and placed a cool kiss on Xander’s lips.
“Mmmm…I am now,” Xander replied huskily.
“Now, now. I don’t think this is the time or place for that, love.” Spike whispered softly against Xander’s ear, sending shivers up and down the human’s spine.
“God, Spike. Can’t wait to get home, now.”
“Me neither, pet. Can’t wait to get this bloody thing off,” Spike replied, gesturing to his costume, grimacing.
“Aw, come on, it looks good on you. You’re just lucky those leather pants fit you. Although, I have to say, you look good in that harness.” Xander trailed his finger across the white leather “X” on Spike’s chest.
“And I can’t wait for you tell me where you got so much white leather and feathers, pet.”
“Ah, young Jedi, you have so much to learn.” Xander retorted in his best Yoda impression.
“Also got quite a bit to teach, too.” Spike growled softly.
Xander smiled warmly at his vampire, wrapping his arms around him. The embrace was returned, white against black and cool against warm. Xander’s eyes started to water, and he sniffed a couple of times before he realized he had started to cry.
“S’matter, love?” Spike asked, concern in his voice.
“It’s just…everyone else out there is dancing with their boyfriend or girlfriend. And I can’t do that, Spike. I know it sounds stupid, but it really hurts.” Xander sniffled, wiping his nose on his sleeve.
Spike took some tissue from the nearby roll and used it to wipe Xander’s tears. He embraced his human again and started swaying.
In the bathroom, they could just make out the lyrics playing out of the sound system. Xander realized the party must be started to dwindle, because it was a slow song playing. “I Only Have Eyes For You” slowly faded into a song Xander hadn’t heard before.
“I know the truth about you, babe
I know the stories you tell
I can feel your heart locked up inside you
I swear I know you so well.”
Spike chuckled softly into Xander’s neck, and the next thing they knew, they were spinning slowly and swaying softly to the music. Xander was amazed when he realized Spike had started to sing along with the low music.
“When the wind blows our across the water
And we stand here in this light
All our secrets fall like raindrops between us
And I know the truth tonight
I know the truth about you, babe
I can feel it through your hands
I can touch it when you’re sleeping
I can love it when you can’t”
With every turn, and every sway, ever word that Spike sang, Xander felt like he was falling more and more. Falling into a bottomless pit. Falling, and he never wanted to stop. He tightened his arms around Spike, and the vampire responded with the same, continuing with the song, sweetly and gravely. The most beautiful sound Xander had ever heard.
“I know the truth about you, babe
Where you’ve fallen, where you stand
Where your walls still come between us
Where you take it like a man…
I know the truth about you, babe.”
The notes faded, but Spike and Xander’s slow embrace continued to spin and sway and their arms still clung to each other. Xander leaned back and placed another kiss on Spike’s lips. Spike’s mouth opened to let him in and again it was that exquisite mixture of menthol and spice and sweet and cool and everything Xander needed now.
A knock at the door interrupted the two of them. Xander panicked, but realized the door was locked, and laughed quietly. Their embrace broke away gently, and Xander unlocked and opened the door.
Buffy stood there looking angry, but the anger turned to confusion. “Huh?” She managed.
“Uh, hey Buff. Sorry we took so long. Spike needed me to fix his wings, they were coming loose and I got the straps all tied into a knot. Clumsy me, I guess.” Xander said, just a bit too quickly. He looked back at Spike, who just shrugged his shoulders.
“Okay, Xander, whatever. Now will you leave so I can use the little girl’s room?” She asked, apparently buying the cover story. She had started doing a little dance, and Xander thought for a second how young and how old she looked at the same time. He opened the door to let her in, and the men were vacating the bathroom when he heard Spike say something behind him.
“You know, slayer, they make implants that can take care of those ‘little’ things.” Spike said in passing.
“Shut up, Spike!” Buffy yelled, slamming the door and locking it.
Xander just rolled his eyes and started back into the main room, but was stopped by Spike’s hand on his shoulder. Spike stepped up behind him.
“Later, pet, and we’ll finish that dance, yeah?”
Xander grinned and nodded. The two went back to their party places, Spike hanging out by the DJ and Oz, Xander back to the table that Tara had returned to.
Final Part here.
adis723 for the hard work she put into it. Also, a shout out to mpoetess for introducing me to the song, "The Truth About You," as sang by Mark Weigle.Title: Secrets and Cages (pt. 2)
Author:
chocgood84 (chocgood84 @ livejournal.com)Pairing: Spike/Xander
Rating: PG-13 (this part)
Notes: AU, schmoop, sex, and drugs.
Previous Part found here.
Disclaimer: I don’t own Spike, Xander, or Buffy the Vampire Slayer. If I did, this wouldn’t be fanfic, it’d be canon. These belong to Mutant Enemy and its creator, Joss Whedon. No harm, no foul.
Xander woke the next day sometime after noon, judging by the placement of the autumn sun. At first his entire body went into panic mode once he realized someone had their arms around him. But then he remembered the night before, and his heartbeat returned to normal. Or as normal as it could when he was wrapped up in Spike’s arms.
Hey, gotta give Faith props for that, Xander thought while trying to pry himself out of Spike’s grasp without waking the vampire. She not only knows how to use someone to get her rocks off, she also leaves a lasting impression.
At long last, Xander managed to emerge from the tent as quietly and carefully as possible to not let the sunlight in, shivering at the even colder wind that had come down from the mountains. He hobbled quickly, bouncing from one socked foot to the other to get to the edge of the clearing.
He had just gotten his jeans unzipped and felt that oh-so-nice feeling of the morning piss when he hear Spike calling for him.
“Xander, where’d you go, love?”
“I’m out here doing what humans have to do, Spike. Or don’t you remember?”
“Well hurry up, pet, it’s cold, and I miss you.” Xander almost laughed out loud at the urgency in Spike’s sleep-addled voice. He finished up, zipped himself back into his jeans, and hobbled back to the tent.
“Get under the sleeping bag, Spike” He called out, unzipping the flap. Charred vampire equals bad bedmate, he thought.
Once inside, he got back under the warm nylon and polyester, and curled back up against his vampire. Hmph, my vampire. Sounds kinda nice. Spike immediately reentangled himself with Xander, who took in the strong arms around him once more, smiling to himself.
****
When Xander next woke, the light striking the outside of the tent was golden, bordering on violet. He gave a heavy sigh, knowing that the party was fast approaching. Bet they don’t even know they’re going to a coming-out party, he snickered.
Again, he managed to get out of the tent without waking the sleeping vampire, this time remembering his boots and hoodie. He zipped up the flap behind him, more for courtesy than necessity, now that the sun was on the horizon.
A half an hour later, the sun had sunk below the horizon but light still pierced the sky, and Spike emerged from the tent, his hair resembling more of something on a bleached hedgehog than a century-old Englishman. He had his duster draped around his shoulders, his Docs were untied, and he was rubbing his eyes with his fists like a four year old after his nap. Xander had to try very hard not laugh at the sight before him.
“Coffee” or something like it came mumbling out of his mouth, and Xander had a cup ready for him. Spike took it, placing a tender kiss on Xander’s cheek, which made the boy blush like a virgin on his wedding night. He plopped himself down into the chair, which aside from the tent and the tin mug, was the only thing not packed up.
Xander pulled an unused block of firewood and sat in front of the almost-woken up vampire, smiling like he was Charlie and Spike was a big Wonka Bar.
The smile was contagious though, and soon Spike found himself mirroring the same big stupid grin. Neither man said anything, but enjoyed the comfortable silence. Seemed like neither one had to say anything.
Finally, Spike finished his coffee, and handed the mug to Xander. He bent over, tying his Doc Martens, and shrugged his arms into his duster.
Xander placed the mug into his knapsack, collapsed the chair, and went to tackle the tent when Spike caught him by the arms and spun him around to face him. Before he knew what was happening, Xander leaned into Spike’s embrace.
Forehead met forehead, eyes catching eyes and then closing. The slow tilt of the head, the soft pleasure as lips caressed lips. Xander draped his arms around Spike’s waist and pressed into the shorter man. Mouths opened to let each other in, and they each found themselves exploring the other for the first time, delighting in the sensuous feeling, tasting, memorization of the other.
Xander felt himself, and Spike as well, growing hard, and he broke away softly, tenderly. His forehead came to rest against Spike and again the staring game was played.
“Wow,” Xander whispered, and Spike just smiled.
A few minutes more of soft touches, fleeting caresses, and casual kisses, and they were both helping to tear down the tent and pack it into its little pouch. Xander threw that into the same bag as the chair, and tossed the bag to Spike.
“Oi! What’s this for?” He yelled back.
“What, you think just because we’re sleeping together now,” Xander couldn’t help but blush, ”that I’m going to do all the work. Think not, my breath-challenged friend. Besides, you slept in it, you can carry it!”
Spike opened his mouth to protest, but knew it would go nowhere, so he just pretended like he was yawning, and said nothing. He fished out a smoke from his duster and lit it, enjoying that first inhale of the night. He exhaled slowly, loving that bittersweet burning sensation coursing through his body.
“Ready, Spike?” Xander asked. Spike nodded, carrying the bag over to where Xander stood, knapsack on, flipping open his cell phone.
“Shit! It’s almost seven, the party’s in two hours! I’ve still got to get ready, pick up Tara and Oz, and we’ve still got to find you a costume. Shit, shit, shit!” With that, Xander grabbed the handle on the cooler, and ran off, wheeling it behind him.
Spike’s cigarette fell to the ground, his mouth hanging open and a look of horror on his paler than usual face.
“Uh, Xander? Did you say costume?” Spike asked, grabbing the bag and running to catch up with his human.
****
Xander knocked on the door to Tara’s dorm room at exactly 8:15, as scheduled. Nice to see the soldier in me is good for something, he thought.
A couple of the frat boys on campus walked by, letting out a loud catcall, which made Spike whine even more.
“I cannot believe you talked me into wearing this bloody thing. I didn’t love you so bloody much, I’d fucking kill you for this. As it is, you owe me big!” Spike complained, pulling on the leather and blowing feathers out of his eyes.
Xander chuckled, taking in the sight. He was just about to respond with some witty repartee when the door opened.
“Xander!” She practically squealed, opening her arms and giving him a big hug. “You look great!” She said, stepping back to view the full ensemble.
“Thanks, Tara. You look gorgeous as always. But that dress is amazing.” Xander exclaimed, pointing out the gold sequined evening gown and laughing at the ‘seaweed’ in her hair. He made a spinning gesture, motioning for her to turn for him. “Such a great costume, I’m glad you could find that dress on such short notice.”
Tara blushed, but complied, giggling when Xander whistled at her.
“And who do we have – oh my, what a costume!” She said, noticing Spike not trying to hide behind Xander.
Xander stepped aside, not letting the vampire hide. He gave an evil grin as the vampire growled a little at him.
“Spike, this is Tara, and Tara, I’d like you to meet Spike.” He said, beaming.
Tara looked quizzically back and forth between Xander and Spike. After a quick second, understanding dawned, and she starting smiling as wide and bright Xander.
“So you’re the big bad, evil blood-sucking demon I’ve heard so much about,” she responded, extending her hand.
Spike seemed to preen just a bit, and smiled at Xander. He took Tara’s hand brought it up to kiss it, bowing gracefully. Kinda hard to be graceful in that get-up, Xander thought, but so fun to watch.
“One and the same, my dear.” Spike replied.
Who knew he could be so damned charming? Xander though, once more surprised by the vampire.
“So nice to finally meet you.”
“Likewise. Too bad it hadn’t been sooner.”
As if on cue, they both turned to Xander, who at this point had turned as red as his corsage.
“Heh, well, uh, we should probably go, right? Don’t want to be late” Xander said, sticking his finger between shirt and collar, obviously trying to search for a way out of his predicament.
“Sure, Xander, just let me grab my purse. Be right back,” and Tara disappeared back into her room.
“Nice girl,” Spike said, stepping close to Xander, whose heart was beating faster than a hamster doing a 10K wheeling.
“Heh. Yeah, she sure is, isn’t she?”
“How’d ya meet, again?”
“Oh, uh, after the whole thing with Oz blew up, he said I should check out the ‘Scarlet Letters,’ since it’s open to the community. So I did and we met. She’s just gr-”
“So, you been talking me up to her, huh?” Spike was inches away from Xander now, leaning in right next to Xander’s ear. The vibrations sent shivers of tingly pleasure all up and down Xander’s spine.
Gulp.
“Uh, yeah, maybe I mentioned you once or twice, you know, in passing.” Or you know, every time I talk to her.
“Really?” Spike asked, smirking like the Grinch. “Gonna have to talk about that later, pet. I think you’ve been kind of naughty.” He said, flicking out his tongue to lick Xander’s ear lobe.
Xander melted right there, into a large puddle of illiterate goo, repeating things like “Hummina”.
“Uh, Spike? Puddle boy? Are we ready or would you rather I go and you stay?” Tara asked, brandishing a matching gold sequined clutch and a black “mink” coat.
“Don’t mind if we use the place for a while, do ya, Glinda?” Spike asked. Xander rouged and then blanched and then stood up quite straight, fixing his cuffs.
“No!” Xander’s voice cracked. Decided to bring it down a little. “I mean no, we’re ready. Let’s go,” he said, leading the way.
On the way to the car, Tara and Spike fell behind a few feet and Xander couldn’t quite make out what they were saying. He did make out the words “cute” and “embarrassed” from the whispered conversation, though he couldn’t decide on the source or the context.
“Dear God, this is going to be a nightmare.” He muttered to himself.
****
“I just can’t get over the costume, man.” Oz said, still having a hard time not laughing hysterically at Spike. “I mean, come on. You have to admit, it’s one with the funny.”
“Ha bloody ha. Ta, mate,” Spike replied sarcastically. Xander and Tara exchanged smirks walking down the stairs to Giles’ place. “And can we bloody well hurry up, it’s cold out here. You’ve all got clothes on.”
“Shut up, Spike. You know you love the attention,” Xander retorted, remembering the truckers they’d encountered at the gas station on the way over. That would be a memory to keep Xander laughing until the Hellmouth froze over.
“Right,” Spike sneered. “Just bleedin hurry up there, mate.”
“You know, Spike, you probably could have worn a coat and carried the-“ Oz began.
“No, I bloody well couldn’t. It took almost an hour to get this stuff just right. All he had to do was hop into a tux and throw some mouse into his hair, and poof he’s James Bond. Granted, it’s a smashing gown you’ve got on, but seriously, how hard is it turn yourself into Ginger from Gilligan’s Island? Me, I had to-“
Spike was cut off by the three members of the group with pulses laughing hysterically at him. Xander’s laughter was cut off by a sharp pinch on his ass. He glared at Peroxide Perry, who was looking anywhere but at Xander and whistling innocently. And that’s a comforting thought…Spike being innocent.
They reached the door and Xander checked his watch: nine o’clock exactly. He pressed the button to ring the buzzer, quickly turning to face the group.
“Remember everyone, no saying anything about my gaydom and definitely no talking about Spike and I.” Everyone nodded their approval for the nth time that night.
The door swung open to find Buffy dressed as a slutty Snow White.
“Xander! And Oz!” She exclaimed, giving both of them a hug. “And a girl I don’t know!”
“I-I’m Tara,” she replied shyly.
Buffy scrutinized her for a moment, but then reached out to shake her hand. “Well, any friend of Xander’s is a friend of – Spike!?” She shrieked.
“Fuck off, slayer,” Spike muttered, no longer trying to hide behind a nearby bush.
“Oh. My. God.” Buffy squealed, in between huge draughts of laughter. She was actually clutching her sides. Spike flicked her off, which, in that costume, was a priceless vision. “Why are you even here, Spike?”
“So, uh, Buff? Party going on?” Xander asked, trying to take the slayer’s attention away from his vampire.
“Sure, right inside. Wouldn’t technically call it a party though; this is Giles’ place, after all.” She said, tears still in her eyes. But being the hostess she was, she lead them into Giles’ flat, which was actually quite packed with college kids.
Giles immediately met them at the door, quickly followed by Willow and Anya. Another round of introductions and laughter at Spike’s costume, and everyone dissipated back into the crowd. Oz, Anya and Buffy took off in one direction, while Willow and Giles made their way through the dancing throng into the kitchen to get some more Halloween treats.
“Your friends are nice, Xander,” Tara shouted to be heard over ‘The Monster Mash’.
“Then obviously you haven’t met them yet,” Spike interjected before Xander could reply. Xander glared at him, but realized he was probably right. The Scoobies weren’t exactly known for getting along with “outsiders”.
“Fuck this, I’m making my way to the booze.” Spike said, exasperated. “Want anything lov – er, Harris?”
Xander nodded and mouthed “whatever”, watching Spike’s white leather clad ass as he made his way across the room, trying not to lose any feathers.
“Mr. Giles certainly did a great job decorating in here. The place looks fantastic” Tara yelled into Xander’s ear.
“Thanks, but he didn’t do anything,” explained Anya as she passed by, presumably on the way to the kitchen as well.
“Me and Anya did all the work. All he did was mumble and mutter about ‘damned kids’ all night long.” Buffy said, trailing Anya.
“Well, still, it looks nice in here” Tara shouted after them, but by then they were gone.
Xander was just about to ask Tara if she wanted dance when Spike returned, drinks for everyone, quickly followed by Oz. The four of them made small talk for a bit. Every once in a while, Xander and Spike would make eye contact, and it would take one of the other two members of the conversation to bring them back to earth.
After a while, the four of them went out to the makeshift dance floor where Giles’ couch usually rests. The Scoobies soon joined them, save for Giles who was running around all over the flat trying to put coasters under drinks and save his rugs from nacho, punch, and beer stains. Ah, good old Giles, Xander thought.
****
Xander and Tara had found a nearby card table and some folding chairs and plopped down, sipping there drinks and watching the crowd jump and hop to the music. They sat and talked for a while.
“So, Spike is pretty hot, Xander,” Tara said, blushing slightly, though not nearly as red as Xander was.
“I know. He is, isn’t he?” Instinctively, Xander picked Spike out the crowd across the room. As if they’d established a psychic connection, Spike looked up from the intense conversation he was having with Oz.
Their eyes met, and everything went into slow motion. The bouncing of the ravers, the acrobatics of the “cool” dancers, the music; everything slowed to frames per second in Xander’s mind. Spike smiled that smile, and Xander couldn’t help but return it. His stomach was actually doing its own acrobatics, and Xander loved the feeling.
“…Xander, are you listening to me?” Tara broke the hypnosis.
“Uh, yeah, what?” Xander looked back to Tara, who was smiling almost as wide as he was. “Sorry, Tara. Guess I’m a little distracted.”
“Yeah, I think so. Geez, Xander, if this is how you are going to be, I think I liked you better when you were single and broken and calling me four times a day.” Tara said, laughing.
“Sorry, Tara.” Xander blushed even more.
“Relax, Xander, I’m just joking. It’s good to see you like this.” Tara reached out and put a hand over his. “You deserve it, you know? This friendship isn’t exactly one-sided. You’ve been there for me through a lot too. Need I bring up Manga?”
“Dear god, no. I told you, she wasn’t good enough for you. You were right to drop her.” Xander said, remembering how Tara’s ex used to treat her. Manga was the whole reason Tara became shy in the first place. She made her feel like crap and like she wasn’t worth anything. Thank God I haven’t run into her since they broke up. Words would have to be had.
“That’s what I mean. You helped me through that, and I’m here for you now.” The hand reached up and held Xander’s chin. She leaned forward and placed a kiss on his cheek. “I’m glad your happy, Xander. It looks good on you.”
Xander was again struck by how lucky he was to have someone like Tara in his life. He remembered back to four months ago when he’d first walked into the UCSD Scarlet Letter’s meeting. Half way through, he’d found Tara and they’d bonded the next night over egg rolls and Mai Tai. She’d dished about her then-current girlfriend, Manga, and he had confessed his entanglement with Oz. She told about her involvement in magicks, and then he dropped the bomb about the mysterious goings-on in Sunnydale. Been friends ever since.
“Thanks, Tara.” Was all Xander could manage to choke out.
The first lines to “Raspberry Swirl” came on, and Xander practically squeeled. He grabbed Tara’s hand and dragged her to the dance floor.
“I love this song!” He yelled into her ear, beginning to hop up and down, flailing his arms. Hmm…not so easy in a tux, he thought.
Tara looked at him, her face beet red, and took a big step back from him. Xander flashed that smile, and she shrugged and started dancing too. Damn, that’s gotta be hard in that gown. And I thought I had it bad.
They started flowing into an easy rhythm, and Xander forgot about everyone but the two of them, dancing and jumping to the music.
“Things are getting desperate
When all the boys can't be men
Everybody knows
I'm her friend
Everybody knows
I'm her man”
Xander and Tara’s eyes met, and they both started laughing so hard, they almost fell to the floor. As it was, they were drawing some attention. Out of the corner of his eye, he could see Spike watching him with a small grin. Obviously filing that into the blackmail folder, Xander decided.
Not to far away in the crowd, he could see Anya dancing with her beaux de jour, Willow and her current crush close by. Even Buffy was dancing with some guy she’d probably mentioned to Xander in passing. His hands were all over her, and Xander could tell she was enjoying it. Damn, hair flip and all, he thought, way to go, Buff.
Xander looked around for Oz, and found him over by the DJ’s table, flipping through the guy’s vinyl collection. Oz is nothing if not consistent, Xander thought, rolling his eyes.
On the last notes of the song, Xander slowed down.
“Everybody knows
I'm her man
Raspberry swirl...”
The song finally transitioned into some new Madonna, and Xander wrinkled up his nose. He leant close to Tara, yelling “I think I need to make a pit stop.”
Tara nodded, and pointed towards a tall lanky brunette who was talking to some guy Xander didn’t recognize over by the window.
“That’s Brenda, from the group,” she called loudly into his ear. “I’m gonna go and say hi.” Xander nodded and gave her the thumbs up, to which she rolled her eyes and waved.
Xander made his way towards the bathroom, and waiting for ten minutes before finally getting in. He checked his hair in the mirror, and straightened his bow tie, fixed his corsage.
He had just finished up and was washing his hands when the door burst open. He was about to yell at the intruder, when he noticed there was no reflection in the mirror. He grinned wide, turning to face Spike who closed and locked the door.
“Enjoying the party, pet?” Spike asked leaning in and placing his hands on the counter on either side of Xander, trapping Xander against the vanity. He leaned down and placed a cool kiss on Xander’s lips.
“Mmmm…I am now,” Xander replied huskily.
“Now, now. I don’t think this is the time or place for that, love.” Spike whispered softly against Xander’s ear, sending shivers up and down the human’s spine.
“God, Spike. Can’t wait to get home, now.”
“Me neither, pet. Can’t wait to get this bloody thing off,” Spike replied, gesturing to his costume, grimacing.
“Aw, come on, it looks good on you. You’re just lucky those leather pants fit you. Although, I have to say, you look good in that harness.” Xander trailed his finger across the white leather “X” on Spike’s chest.
“And I can’t wait for you tell me where you got so much white leather and feathers, pet.”
“Ah, young Jedi, you have so much to learn.” Xander retorted in his best Yoda impression.
“Also got quite a bit to teach, too.” Spike growled softly.
Xander smiled warmly at his vampire, wrapping his arms around him. The embrace was returned, white against black and cool against warm. Xander’s eyes started to water, and he sniffed a couple of times before he realized he had started to cry.
“S’matter, love?” Spike asked, concern in his voice.
“It’s just…everyone else out there is dancing with their boyfriend or girlfriend. And I can’t do that, Spike. I know it sounds stupid, but it really hurts.” Xander sniffled, wiping his nose on his sleeve.
Spike took some tissue from the nearby roll and used it to wipe Xander’s tears. He embraced his human again and started swaying.
In the bathroom, they could just make out the lyrics playing out of the sound system. Xander realized the party must be started to dwindle, because it was a slow song playing. “I Only Have Eyes For You” slowly faded into a song Xander hadn’t heard before.
“I know the truth about you, babe
I know the stories you tell
I can feel your heart locked up inside you
I swear I know you so well.”
Spike chuckled softly into Xander’s neck, and the next thing they knew, they were spinning slowly and swaying softly to the music. Xander was amazed when he realized Spike had started to sing along with the low music.
“When the wind blows our across the water
And we stand here in this light
All our secrets fall like raindrops between us
And I know the truth tonight
I know the truth about you, babe
I can feel it through your hands
I can touch it when you’re sleeping
I can love it when you can’t”
With every turn, and every sway, ever word that Spike sang, Xander felt like he was falling more and more. Falling into a bottomless pit. Falling, and he never wanted to stop. He tightened his arms around Spike, and the vampire responded with the same, continuing with the song, sweetly and gravely. The most beautiful sound Xander had ever heard.
“I know the truth about you, babe
Where you’ve fallen, where you stand
Where your walls still come between us
Where you take it like a man…
I know the truth about you, babe.”
The notes faded, but Spike and Xander’s slow embrace continued to spin and sway and their arms still clung to each other. Xander leaned back and placed another kiss on Spike’s lips. Spike’s mouth opened to let him in and again it was that exquisite mixture of menthol and spice and sweet and cool and everything Xander needed now.
A knock at the door interrupted the two of them. Xander panicked, but realized the door was locked, and laughed quietly. Their embrace broke away gently, and Xander unlocked and opened the door.
Buffy stood there looking angry, but the anger turned to confusion. “Huh?” She managed.
“Uh, hey Buff. Sorry we took so long. Spike needed me to fix his wings, they were coming loose and I got the straps all tied into a knot. Clumsy me, I guess.” Xander said, just a bit too quickly. He looked back at Spike, who just shrugged his shoulders.
“Okay, Xander, whatever. Now will you leave so I can use the little girl’s room?” She asked, apparently buying the cover story. She had started doing a little dance, and Xander thought for a second how young and how old she looked at the same time. He opened the door to let her in, and the men were vacating the bathroom when he heard Spike say something behind him.
“You know, slayer, they make implants that can take care of those ‘little’ things.” Spike said in passing.
“Shut up, Spike!” Buffy yelled, slamming the door and locking it.
Xander just rolled his eyes and started back into the main room, but was stopped by Spike’s hand on his shoulder. Spike stepped up behind him.
“Later, pet, and we’ll finish that dance, yeah?”
Xander grinned and nodded. The two went back to their party places, Spike hanging out by the DJ and Oz, Xander back to the table that Tara had returned to.
Final Part here.
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And it's also in my memories now:D