Since the soul, Spike has changed. Less snark, less violence, less anger.

Xander has noticed the physical changes most. Tension in his shoulders, stillness in his frame, the fine web of lines around his eyes.

The vampire's face discloses his age, the soul's fatigue. Despite outward calm, his eyes give away his turmoil.

So it is these lines that Xander tends the most, tracing them with his fingers until they smooth away, watching the tight lips turn into a soft smile.

Spike has done too many things in his long life, but Xander makes sure that this part is happy.

~end~