| The Truth Comes Out Author: SlayGal E-mail: SlayGal_@Hotmail.com Summary: A 16 year old Dawn has a little something to drink at a party…and lets something slip to the wrong person. Rating: Hate guessing this….uh, PG? Disclaimer: They all belong to Joss and the “Grr argh” guy. I just can’t resist playing with Spike… :-) And the song is by Mel C (I don’t especially like this song, maybe that’s why it refuses to get out my head…lol) Feedback: PLEASE! *Love* getting feedback…please let me know if this is good, or even if its crap, cos I can learn from my mistakes :0) Distribution: As long as ya tell me where it's going, take it, that’s cool. Note: This is another fic where I had a song stuck in my head!! Lol. I heard this song on the radio and it reminded me of Spike and Dawn :-) ****** Dawn looked at herself in the mirror. Her long dark hair was down; she had made it wavy for tonight. She wore tight black jeans, brown ankle boots and a dark blue glittery tank top, that Willow said brought out her eyes. She applied her lip-gloss and then headed downstairs. “Will?” She called. “In the basement, Dawnie.” She heard someone faintly call. She walked to the top of the basement steps, greeted by Willow carrying a basket of laundry. “You look beautiful.” Willow smiled. “Thanks.” Dawn said, a little shyly. “So, where exactly is this party?” Willow asked. Dawn rolled her eyes, “Willow, I’ve told you a dozen times, plus the address is by the phone.” “Ok, ok, I just worry.” “I know – but you don’t need to.” Dawn promised. She glanced at watch, “I gotta go. I’ll see you later, back by 1.” “12.” “12:30?” She asked hopefully. “Fine.” Willow relented. Dawn smiled, walking out the back door. “And relax, nothings going to happen.” She said confidently and left. “Famous last words.” Willow mumbled as she began folding. *** Dawn smiled as she walked; she was looking forward to Kevin’s house party. His parents had left town for a week, taking his annoying little sister with them, and he had taken full advantage of that fact. “Dawn.” She turned and saw her friend Lisa, walking in heels way to big, but still looking good. “Hey.” Dawn smiled. They walked to Kevin’s house together, chatting about school and stuff, they heard the music half a block before getting to his house. They walked in and Dawn immediately noted that Kirstie was nowhere to be seen, that was a good thing. “Dawn!” Kevin yelled over the music, pushing through all the people to reach the two girls. “Hi.” “Hey.” Dawn nodded, trying to play it cool. “You want a beer?” He asked, and Dawn noticed the smell of it on his breath. “Uh, sure.” She said. Kevin handed her a can. She looked down at it, a little unsure. “Thanks.” She said, then she shrugged and popped it open. Kevin stumbled a little, as he put his arm round Dawn’s shoulder, “Come on, let’s get on with the partying.” He grinned. Dawn smiled back, allowing him to lead her in to the living room, “I’ll talk to you later, Lis.” She called back to Lisa. *** Willow worried a little as she walked to the store, she wondered if Dawn was Ok at the moment. Ever since Buffy had died, and Tara and Willow got custody of Dawn (With a little Magickal assistance, of course…), the two Wicca’s spent most of their time worrying about Dawn, even though the young girl insisted it wasn’t necessary. Willow had to admit she was glad Dawn was spending a little more time with her school friends lately, especially as Dawns best friend for the past two years was an evil vampire with a chip in his head. “Alright, Red?” Willow jumped as Spike walked out from behind a tree, lighting up a cigarette. “Speak of the devil.” Willow said, as she was interrupted from her train of thought. “And he shall appear.” Spike grinned. “Thinking of me, were you? I’m touched.” He said in his usual bored tone. “Just thinking that its good that Dawn has been trying to spend time with her – uh, living – friends, no offence.” “None taken.” He shrugged. “Wondered why nibblet hadn’t been around much lately.” “Yeah, she’s been hanging out with some buddies of hers. She seems to have fun with them, she still insists you’re better company though.” “Summers women never could resist me.” Spike smirked. Willow and smiled and rolled her eyes, “Sure, Spike. Whatever. Dawn appreciates having someone who knows what its like to lose a loved one, none of her friends understand that.” “They wouldn’t. Where you headed anyway?” “To the store – we’re out of chocolate and peanut butter ice cream, Dawn will kill me if she gets home and there’s none left.” She smiled. “Gets home? Where’s little bit tonight, then?” “At a party, some guys parents are away so he’s having a house party kinda thing.” “And you let Dawn go?” “Why not?” Willow asked, again worried. “Don’t you remember what 16 year old blokes are like?” He arched a scarred eyebrow. “Well, yeah, but…” Willow couldn’t think of a back up. “Exactly. Where is this party?” “Couple blocks down.” “I’m thinking maybe I’ll check it out, lurk outside, make sure nibblet’s Ok.” “Uh, Ok, just…don’t let Dawn see you, or if she does, I didn’t send you.” “Got it.” Spike said, heading off in the opposite direction. *** An hour and two beers later Dawn was having a great time, she was feeling a little tipsy, and was dancing with Kevin to a fast song. “Having fun?” Kevin yelled over the music. “Huh?” Dawn called back. “Having a good time?” He shouted again. “What? I can’t hear…” She motioned the loud music and her ear to let him know. Kevin grabbed her hand a pulled her away from the speaker. “Lets sit down.” He said loudly, Dawn nodded to let him know she heard and walked to the couch. Kevin grabbed another couple beers, handing one to Dawn. Dawn gratefully opened it, taking a swig. She winced a little at the bitterness, but she had to admit the more of it she drank the less awful it tasted. “I was trying to ask if you were having fun.” Kevin said, once they had sat down a little away from the loud music. “I am. This is the first party I’ve been to since…” Dawn stopped herself. “In a big long while.” She finished. “I’m really glad you could make it.” Kevin smiled. //He’s so cute.// Dawn thought. //A total babe, really, and he’s talking to me, dancing with me…// Dawn sat back, downing a little of her beer, this night was gonna be fun, Dawn was determined to have a good time. *** Spike watched through the window as Dawn danced with a guy, it was a fast song and yet Spike noticed the guy was touching Dawn more than was needed for this kind of dancing. He watched as they moved to the couch, Dawn opening and drinking a beer. This wasn’t a good thing, Spike knew. She wasn’t old enough, for one thing, and for another this guy was giving it to her, which meant he was no good. Spike wondered what he should do. He decided to lurk a while longer, help nibblet out if she needed it. *** Dawn and Kevin talked a little as they drank their beers. Dawn had moved closer to him, they had leaned in and were close, Dawn could feel Kevin’s breath on her face as they talked. “You know, Dawn, you’re the hottest girl at school.” He told her. “Yeah, right.” Dawn snorted. “I mean it.” He said. Dawn looked at him, trying to make out if he was lying, Dawn had a knack for that. But she wasn’t sure, mostly cause she had a little blurred vision. Kevin misunderstood what she was doing and leaned in, his lips brushed hers. Dawn was a little shocked by this. Kevin smiled at her, she smiled back, still surprised. “Hey, Bill, another couple beers?” Kevin called to a guy over at the refreshments table. The guy nodded and brought 2 bottles of beer over and handed them to Dawn and Kevin. Dawn held her sipped her beer, “I feel a little weird.” She told Kevin. “Yeah, that’s what drinking will do to you.” He smiled. “Wanna dance again?” She asked. “How bout we stay here. I want to know stuff about you.” “Stuff?” Dawn squeaked. She hated talking about her family, after her loss, and she wasn’t into talking about the past, since 90% of the past never actually happened, it was just stuff the monks had programmed them all to think. “Yeah, like who you hang out with usually, you haven’t been to a party in ages, like you said, and we don’t see you at the mall much, where’ve you been?” “Uh, well, I kinda have this other friend…this guy…I hang with.” “Are you and this guy…like…dating?” Kevin asked carefully. Dawn nearly spat beer on him, as she laughed. “No, we’re not.” She chuckled. “We’re really not. He’s just helped me a lot, he knew my mom and sister before they died, he’s a great guy.” Dawn said, smiling as she thought of Spike. “That’s cool, that you have someone like that.” Kevin said. “”Would I know him? Like, does he go to our school?” Again Dawn nearly chocked, “No, he doesn’t. And, no, you wouldn’t know him.” “Really? What’s his name?” “The names Spike.” A British voice interjected. Dawn’s head jerked up and she saw Spike stood in front of the couch. “Spike!” She said, attempting to get up. “What are you doing here?” “That doesn’t matter, I just came to stop you from doing something stupid. Like drinking for example.” He raised an eyebrow. Dawn looked guiltily at her beer, putting it down on a table. She got up, finally, and then it hit her, she realised how drunk she felt. “I didn’t have much.” She protested to Spike. “You had enough.” He said, Dawn smiled, “Look at your hair!” She giggled, the alcohol hitting her. Hard. She looked at Kevin. “Doesn’t he have the coolest hair? Its totally blonde and cool!” “I think we better get you home, nibblet.” Spike said, a little amused at Dawns ramblings but still angry with her. Kevin got up too. “Who is this Dawn?” He asked. “His name is Spike, he’s totally old. And you wouldn’t believe what he is!” She leaned in a little, and said in what she thought was a hush whisper, more like a hushed yell, “He’s not even a person. He’s a vam –” Spike clamped a hand over her mouth. “Lets go. Don’t wanna spoil the party, do we.” He said pointedly to Dawn. He grabbed her hand, easing his own off her mouth, and pulled her towards the front door, Dawn dragging slightly behind, Kevin bringing up the rear. “You’re leaving? Now?” “Looks like it, don’t it, mate?” Spike asked. “But Dawn –” “Sorry, you’ll have to find another girl to get drunk so you can take advantage of her.” Spike growled. “I wasn’t going to –” “I wasn’t sodding born yesterday.” Spike told him. Dawn looked from Kevin to Spike, back to Kevin. She felt something sick inside of her “Kevin…you were just...?” She didn’t finish, she wrenched her hand out of Spikes grip and took off, out the door and into the night. “What’s you problem, pal?” Kevin stepped up to Spike. “She was the one who wanted it.” Spike grabbed him roughly by the collar and shoved Kevin into the wall. “Don’t you ever talk about her like that again, you got it, Sunshine?” Spike snarled. Kevin’s look of surprise, and gulp of fear was enough for Spike, he let him go and then went after Dawn. He found her down the street, sitting on the curb. “Hey, kid.” He said. She looked up at him. “Hi Spike.” She sighed. “I really screwed up tonight, huh?” “Nah, ya didn’t. S’not like no ones ever got drunk at a party before. Just best not to tell the two witches what you’ve been up to. When’ve you got to be home?” “At 12:30.” She said. “Plenty of time. How bout we take a walk? Fresh air’ll do you good.” “Ok.” Dawn got up, wobbling a little. Spike helped her onto the pavement and they walked along to nowhere in particular. “I hate men.” Dawn said suddenly. Spike smirked, “Yeah, men are idiots. Specially school kids like that twit.” “Yeah, I thought he liked me. Guess I’m the stupid one.” “Course your not, luv. Sometimes its easier to believe people are decent, even when they’re wankers.” “I guess.” Dawn said quietly. They walked in silence for a while, not awkward; it was a comfortable, friendly silence. “Thanks Spike.” Dawn said abruptly. “For what, Pet?” Spike frowned. “For looking out for me. If I had stayed at the party…God knows what would have happened.” She looked down at the ground. “That’s it, I’m done with guys for a while. God, at least when I thought I was in love with you, I knew nothing could happen, what with you being dead, and, like, 120.” She said, picking up her pace. “Plus, at the time, you loved Buffy. But it was nice, I knew you, you knew me, and I knew you liked me for me, there was no alternative motive, cos you still hung out with me after Buffy died and –” She looked round, Spike was rooted to the spot, a few feet away. “You thought you loved me?” He asked. Dawn’s eyes went wide as she realised what she had said, her hand shot up to her mouth. She lowered it slightly to talk, “I didn’t, I mean, when I say love, I, er…” She stuttered. Spike looked at her, his face a mask of confusion. “Ok, yes. I went through a – phase, I think Buffy would call it – of thinking I loved you. I had the biggest crush…you were just always there for me, you always knew what to say, how to say it, so I understood. And so I kinda developed something for you.” She looked him in the eye, wondering what his reaction would be. He walked a few paces towards her, his brow furrowed. “Uh…but I don’t feel that way anymore.” She added hastily. “You don’t?” He asked, moving closer. “No.” Her voice faltered a little. Spike nodded. //Dawn loved me? Where was I? I knew she thought the whole vampire thing was cool…but she had feelings for me? How could I have not known? Then again, I was always chasing after Buffy, and after she died I was too distracted…// “Can we go someplace?” Dawn asked, interrupting his thoughts. “Uh...yeah, like where?” “The Bronze?” “Alright.” He said distractedly. They walked in silence, Spike was lost in his thoughts, the revelation had shocked him, all this time and he never figured what Dawn felt. He realised he couldn’t have been a very good friend to her, if she was thinking and feeling this, and he had no idea what so ever…. They arrived at the Bronze and, still not talking, sat at the back, on the couch. Dawn fiddled with her hands, she was feeling a little less drunk, but still tipsy. Spike looked over at Dawn, his eyes wandered over her face, she definitely had turned into a beautiful young women, she had a lot of Buffy in her. He doubted she realised it, but he saw it. He would spend hours talking with her, in his crypt, she had the same mannerisms as Buffy, she would fold her arms, or place her hands on her hips, roll her eyes, smirk in a certain, half-smile, kinda way. She had become his best friend. He snorted to himself at the thought. William The Bloody had befriended a 14-year-old girl, but after 2 years of spending time with her their friendship had become stronger than any bond he had ever known. Stronger than his connection with Drusilla, this thought had struck him one day last year. He had been brooding about something, he hated to go all broody, it wasn’t his style, but he had been pissed off about something and Dawn had turned up at his crypt. He had told her to sod off, that he wasn’t in the mood right now, but Dawn hadn’t left. Instead she had sat next to him, for hours, not speaking, just allowing him to sulk. Then she had turned to him and said “Ready to tell me what’s up yet?” He had been taken back by the fact she had stayed with him, so he had confided in her about what was wrong…he couldn’t remember what it was now, but that was irrelevant, the point was he realised at that point he had something he hadn’t had before, not in all his years as a vampire, and never as a human. He had a friend. Darla and Angelus weren’t friends, he had only put up with them because of Dru, and she had treated him like dirt. He spent years with her, and she never appreciated him. Then when she became weak, after the attack in Prague, he looked after her, gave her everything she wanted…and what did she do? Run off with some disgusting Chaos Demon! Then she had left him *again* for a fungus demon. That wasn’t love, he was damn sure it wasn’t friendship. But Dawn was different, she treated him like a person, just like he, in turn, treated her like one. “What are looking at, Spike?” Dawn asked, her words slurring slightly, he had been so deep in thought he barely heard her. He shook his head. “What?” “You keep staring at me.” She said uncomfortably. “Sorry.” Spike mumbled. “Wanna dance?” She asked. Spike looked at the crowded dance floor, then back at Dawn. “Why not, Nibblet?” Dawn grabbed his hand sloppily and they got up, moving to the floor. Spike was looking at Dawn in a whole new light now that he knew she had once had feelings for him. She said she didn’t now though. He held her close, the music soothing, the words however, Spike found a little too close to home… I call you up whenever things go wrong. You're always there. You are my shoulder to cry on. I can't believe it took me quite so long. To take the forbidden step. Is this something that I might regret? Nothing ventured nothing gained. A lonely heart that can't be tamed. I'm hoping that you feel the same. This is something that I can't forget. I thought that we would just be friends. Things will never be the same again. It's just the beginning it's not the end. Things will never be the same again. It's not a secret anymore. Now we've opened up the door. Starting tonight and from now on. We'll never, never be the same again. Never be the same again. Now I know that we were close before. I'm glad I realised I need you so much more. And I don't care what everyone will say. It's about you and me. And we'll never be the same again I thought that we would just be friends Things will never be the same again It's just the beginning it's not the end. Things will never be the same again. It's not a secret anymore. Now we've opened up the door. Starting tonight and from now on. We'll never, never be the same again. Never be the same again. Spike was starting to feel something towards Dawn that he hadn’t felt before, it was more than friendship. He cleared his throat and looked down at her, “How bout we phone Will? Tell her you’re staying with me cos you ain’t gonna be sober anytime soon.” He told her. “Ok. In that case, wanna get more beer?” She asked, a half-joking undertone to her question. “Dunno if that’s such a good idea, little bit.” Spike smiled. “C’mon. It’ll be like our own little slumber party…in a damp old crypt…” “How bout we get me a beer, and you one of those alco-pops?” “One of those what’s?” She asked. Spike rolled his eyes and smiled, “Forget it – you’re on the coke tonight, luv.” Dawn pouted, “Please?” “No – and don’t think that look is gonna do it.” Dawn sighed light-heartedly, “Fine. But you can call Willow, and tell her I’m not coming home.” “Alright. Wait here.” He went off the to the phones and returned a few minutes later. “Come on then.” He went to the bar and got a bottle of beer for himself and Dawn a coke. They walked out the Bronze and made their way back to Spikes crypt. Once inside Spike turned on the TV. “Make yourself at home, sweet bit.” “Always do.” She answered. They sat watching TV for a while and then Dawn turned to Spike. “Spike?” She asked. “What, luv?” “Are things gonna be weird between us now?” Spike knew they were, he already felt different around Dawn, but not in a bad way. “Course not. Why should they?” He lied easily. “Cos…cos I told you that I lov – that I used to – love you.” She had almost blurted it out then. Spike noticed the slip-up and felt something stir inside him…was it surprise? Gladness? Or…was it happiness? He wasn’t sure, maybe all three. “Cos, I still really care about you.” Dawn told him, she scooted over to him a little. Spike felt himself tense at her closeness. “I care about you too, pet.” He said sincerely. Dawn was close enough for him to smell her skin…he could smell the lingering scent of shower gel…and her warm blood pumping around her body. “Spike…” Dawn began, but then she leant in even closer, and before Spike knew what was happening she placed her lips on his. He felt surprise replaced by arousal as she kissed him, he returned it. Soon he pulled away, “Dawn…” “No.” She interrupted firmly. “I know what you’re going to say. How bout you don’t?” Her eyes were pleading, she knew he was going to say this was wrong, even if it felt right to them both. Spike nodded in understanding. Dawn smiled at him, put her arms around his waist and snuggled up to him. He stroked her dark hair as she drifted off to sleep. Within a few minutes her breathing had slowed to a steady pace that let him know she was asleep. “Well done, Spike, you pillock. What is it with you and Summers women?” He asked himself out-loud. He looked down at the brunette in his arms and sighed, he decided to enjoy this, it was his one chance. He shut the TV off and pulled Dawn closer in his arms. His lips brushed her forehead and she nuzzled closer in her sleep. Spike sat like this all night. Not sleeping, just watching the young girl in his arms sleep, the rise and fall of her chest, the little moans she gave in her sleep and the way she scrunched her face up adorably as she dreamed. A few hours after the sun had rose Dawn began to stir. She opened her eyes, only to be met by two cool-blue eyes. “Spike?” She croaked, her voice thick with sleep. “Mornin’ luv.” He smiled. She looked around and realised she was in his crypt, he still had his arms loosely around her. Her eyes roamed from his face to his arms. She put a hand to her head. “My head is thumping.” “S’called a hangover.” He smirked. “Why are we sat like this?” She asked. //She doesn’t remember…// Spike didn’t know whether to feel relieved or disappointed, it was good that she didn’t remember, sort of, it meant she wouldn’t feel guilty or embarrassed, and things wouldn’t be weird to her. “Uh…” Spike tried to think of something. “You don’t remember?” He stalled. “No, I don’t remember much of last night.” She groaned, “Except that there was beer at the party.” Spike laughed a little. “You stayed here to avoid the lectures from Willow and Tara. Then we watched some TV, and you fell asleep.” Which wasn’t lying…he just missed a bit out… “Oh.” She said, trying to remember. “Do I remember you dragging me from the party and Kevin being a total jerk?” “That you do.” He confirmed with a small nod. “Ok, that’s about all I do remember.” She sat up a little, Spike unconsciously still held her. “I didn’t do or say anything super embarrassing,” She looked at him with a regretful look, “Did I?” “No. Not at all.” Spike smiled as he felt Dawn relax in his embrace. ****** Part Two Later that day, when the sun was just setting, Dawn walked into Spike's crypt; she found the vamp was asleep on the stone slab covering the tomb. She was quiet as she walked over to him, she looked at his face, so relaxed as he deeply slumbered. She reached out and brushed a stray piece of hair away from his forehead. He looked so perfect, she traced her finger over the scar on his eyebrow, she remembered him telling her, in one of his stories, that he had gotten that from a Slayer, then her index finger trickled down his face, over his high cheekbones and to his chin. She looked at him, something stirred in her memory as she watched him… His eyes fluttered and then opened, he sat bolt up right as he saw Dawn stood over him. "Bloody hell. Can't you wear a bell?" He asked, irritated. "Sorry." Dawn grinned. "Whatta you want, anyway?" "Just thought I'd stop by." She shrugged. Spike swivelled round and lowered his feet to the floor, "Don't you have school or something, nibblet?" "No, its Sunday. Plus its getting dark. You know, it wouldn't kill you to keep track of the days." Dawn paused, then added. "Obviously." "Well, don't you have homework?" "No. God, aren't we Mr. Crabby Pants when we just woke up?" She smirked as she moved to the chair and plonked herself down in it. "Sorry, luv." Spike said, "Just wasn't expecting a wake up call." "Its cool." Dawn told him. Spike moved across his crypt to his leather duster where he took out a cigarette and sparked it up. He thought he could feel Dawn's eyes borrowing into his back, he turned to her, and sure enough she was staring intently at him. "Do I have bed hair?" "What?" "What are you looking at?" Spike said, uncomfortable with the stare she had fixed him with. "I feel like I had a dream about you…I just can't remember." She grimaced. "Did something happen last night?" "Last night?" Spike chocked a little on his cigarette. "Like what?" "I'm not sure…I just…" She shook her head, as if to trigger a memory. "I dunno." She shrugged. "You tell me, I mean, does anything important stick out in your head?" Spike silently gulped. "No." He moved to the TV, turning it on to create a distraction. "Nothing I can think of, little bit." Dawn was still frowning. "Ok." She sighed, sitting back in the chair. Spike felt relief run through him. He didn't know how to tell Dawn what had happened last night, not without embarrassing them both. "So, how you feeling, anyway?" "Better, thanks. Hot shower, aspirin and a diet coke," She checked them off on her fingers, "Got rid of most of my hangover, heads still a little achy though." "Be gone by tomorrow." Spike told her. "I'm bored." Dawn said bluntly. "You wanna go to The Bronze?" Spike hesitated. "No drinking, I promise." Dawn said, crossing her heart as she grinned at him. Spike smirked. "Ok, luv. Lets go." "Coolness." They arrived at The Bronze, and easily found a table in the Sunday night crowd, which wasn't a whole lot of people. "You want a drink?" Spike asked. "Of soda, I mean?" He added quickly. "Sure." When Spike returned he handed Dawn a can of Sprite and settled with his beer. "School's gonna be fun tomorrow." Dawn mumbled sarcastically. "Sod 'em." Spike shrugged. "They aren't bloody worth your time. Especially that Backstreet Boy wannabe." Dawn but smiled a little. "Do you even know who the Backstreet Boys are?" "Course I bloody do, they may be wankers but I have to do something during the day, and MTV is right there." Dawn chuckled. "You always do that." She told him. "Do what?" "Make me feel better. You always make me laugh." "I'm not supposed to be funny! I'm a vampire!" Spike pointlessly protested. "Ya'know, 'Grr' and all that." Dawn shook in mock-fear. "Oh yeah, I guess I forgot. Scary Spike! Ooh, a vampire!" She gasped. "Can you at least pretend to be pretending?" He asked. Dawn smiled, "Sorry Spike, I'm sure you were very scary, back in your day, but now you're my friend, and even though you try to hide it, you're a sweet guy." "Am not! I don't do 'sweet'!" Dawn sniggered, "Ok, I'm sorry. You're very evil!" She said mock-earnestly. "Damn straight." Dawn stifled a laugh and got up, "I'm just going to the bathroom." When she walked out of the restroom she saw a girl from her school. Had she been at the party? Had she seen Spike pull Dawn out…? "Hey Michelle." Dawn said carefully. "Oh, hi!" She smiled. "Missed you at the party last night." "Yeah, I didn't go. I hung here with a few friends. Then again, couldn't have been too much of a good party, considering you and that guy," She motioned her head towards Spike, "Were here, giving us a floor show." She smirked. "I was here…?" Dawn asked, more to herself. "I know. You were dancing with that guy." She lowered her voice, "Who is he? Don't see him around much, and may I add he is very hot." She flashed Dawn a grin. Dawn smiled weakly, "Yeah." //I was here? Dancing with Spike?// Then it came back to her, she remembered dancing with Spike, she remembered accidentally letting Spike know how she felt during her rant, she remembered Spike's shock when she told him, and lastly she remembered their kiss. "Oh, God." Dawn breathed. ****** Part Three “Dawn? Are you Ok?” Dawn was vaguely aware of Michelle’s voice. She mumbled that she’d see her and school and proceeded back to the table. Spike looked at her as she came back, he noticed the colour had left her face; he was up in an instant, his hand on her back gently, as though she were glass that would break if he exerted more pressure. “You don’t look so good, nibblet.” He said, concern covering his features. Dawn looked up at him; a feeling of deep embarrassment was filling her, “I have to go.” She muttered, grabbing her coat and all but running out the Bronze. Spike followed her into the street, confused and worried, “What’s the matter, luv?” “Nothing. I have to go home.” She said, avoiding his eyes as she picked up the pace. “At least let me walk you.” “No, I’m fine.” She insisted quickly. “C’mon, Bit, tell me what’s wrong.” “I said its nothing.” “Don’t give me that, if something’s wrong I deserve to know what.” That stopped her, she span to face him, “What’s that supposed to mean??” She wasn’t sure where that spark of anger came from. Spike nearly collided with her as she stopped so suddenly, but caught himself. “It means exactly what I said, after everything, you should tell me if something’s bothering you.” “After everything.” She echoed to herself, the events of last night becoming more and more vivid. “Talk to me, little bit.” Spike gently placed a hand on her bare arm, ran it along her skin comfortingly. She jumped at the contact, retracting her arm out of his reach. “I really gotta go.” She began walking again. “Dawn.” Spike said firmly, falling into step next to her, “What the hell is up? Can you at least treat me decent?” Dawn remembered something Spike had said last night. “Sometimes its easier to believe people are decent, right Spike?” She said, trying to hide her embarrassment by being harsh. “Ring a bell?” “Yeah,” Spike said, as if she was a bit stupid, “I was the one who told you that, last night-” Spike stopped dead, (Or deader…) Dawn saw a little of her embarrassment mirrored in him, as he looked away from her. “I told you, I have to go.” Dawn threw her coat on and ran the rest of the way home, the wind rushing by at a speed that drowned out Spike, repeatedly calling her name. *** The next few days Dawn went to school, came home and stayed in her room, she didn’t want to go to Spike’s place, she was humiliated that she had told him how she felt, that she had danced with him, that she kissed him. And she couldn’t believe she had just forgotten it all. //I’ve always said only losers drink alcohol, boy, did I prove my theory right// She thought gloomily. “Dawnie?” Willow called through the door. “You want some dinner?” “I’m not hungry.” Dawn called, she was sprawled on her bed, reading a fashion magazine. “Dawn, can I come in?” “Sure.” She sighed. The redhead entered, a smile that said, “Confide in me” was firmly on her face. “What’s the matter?” “Nothing.” Dawn said, examining an article she suddenly found interesting. “You can tell me. Is it school?” “Nope.” She flicked the page. “Is it your friends?” Dawn scoffed, “I haven’t got any friends. Only you and the scoobs.” “And Spike.” Willow reminded, as if Dawn had forgotten. //Yeah, like I’ve forgotten him…he’s all I can think about.// “Yeah.” Dawn said, sadly. Then she said, as upbeat as possible, “Look, I’m tired, I think I’m gonna take a shower and hit the sack. Do you and Tara have that Wicca group tonight?” “Yeah, but we won’t go if you need to talk.” “No, Will. I’m Ok, you go, have a good time.” Willow looked uncomfortable, “Well, maybe you can call Xander? I’m sure he’ll come over if his Dawnster needs him.” She smiled, which Dawn returned gratefully. “No, I’m really Ok. Its all good.” Dawn assured her. “Just go.” “Oh…Ok.” Willow relented, uncertain. “We might be back a little late.” She gave Dawn a small hug, as best she could with Dawn led on her bed, and left the room. Dawn heard her and Tara shuffle downstairs and out the front door. She climbed off her bed and grabbed her bathrobe, quickly removing her clothes and putting it on. The lilac towelling felt good against her skin. She headed to the bathroom, and climbed into the shower, the pin-pricks of hot water felt refreshing as she massaged shampoo into her dark hair. After a good 20 minutes in the shower she stepped out, wrapping her robe tightly around her, and enfolded her hair into a towel. Once in her room she blow-dried her hair and then, after applying moisturiser, she collapsed onto her bed, feeling much more relaxed. Soon her eyes drooped and she was asleep within minutes. Dawn woke an hour later, her room in darkness. Something had woken her, a sound, she paused, her own heartbeat sounding like a drum in her ears. She silently sat up, reaching into her drawer for a stake, while her other hand groped for a lamp switch. She felt it and clicked it on; a dim light filled the room. She couldn’t see anyone, then she heard it again, the sound of her window slowly being opened. She was frozen in place now, helpless as she watched the window, it was being pulled outward, opening. She quickly turned the light off, she forced her feet to co-operate and slowly crept to the window. A figure crawled through, she was about to try to stake it, (the fact vamps can’t enter without an invite had left Dawns brain completely in the panic) when she heard it stumble, and then fall into her room. “Ouch!” She heard the prowler cry out. “Bloody hell!” “Spike?” She said into the darkness. “No, it’s the sodding ghost of Christmas past.” He grumbled. She walked quickly across the room, turning the light overhead on in time to see Spike getting up. “What are you doing here??” She said angrily. “You scared me to death!” “Well, no one would open the bleedin’ door, would they? Are Red and the lover witch too busy going at it to be a little polite?” “They’re not home, Ok? And I was asleep.” “Sorry.” Spike mumbled. “What do you want, anyway?” Dawn asked. “To see you.” Spike answered honestly. “You haven’t been by in a while.” “Yeah, no kidding.” She rolled her eyes and sat down on her bed. He sat down next to her, causing her to rise and she began pacing. “Look, kid, you were the one who said you didn’t want things to get weird between us.” He reminded her. “Yeah, well, I was drunk. It’s not like everything I said made sense. I didn’t know what I was saying.” “Is that right?” Spike asked, standing up. “Yeah, it is.” She stopped pacing. “I didn’t mean what I said, Ok? It was the alcohol, crazy talk as Xand would say.” “You didn’t mean it?” Spike hid the hurt in his voice by what he hoped was anger. “No.” She said firmly, her jaw set, but her insides churning. “I didn’t.” Spike moved closer, Dawn could hear the irritation as he said, “Bloody stupid thing to say, don’t you think?” “Yeah.” Dawn said strongly. “But look who’s talking.” Spike looked furious, “Meaning??” “Meaning you were the one who kissed me back, and you were the one who acted like you liked me, just to treat me like some lame kid the next day.” “I was doing cos I thought you would be embarrassed!” He defended, then he let his tense shoulders drop, “Just forget it, nibblet. I just don’t get it.” “Me either. Why do you even care? What difference does it make to you? You were about to tell me that it can never happen the other night, stupid me thought you meant cos you’re a vamp, turns out its just cos you were just using me.” She shoved past him and stood by the window, obviously waiting for him to leave. “I wasn’t bloody using you!” He raised his voice. “I wouldn’t do that to you!” “Really? Then why did you kiss me?” She was fighting tears, but wouldn’t let him see. “Cos…I…” He couldn’t find the words. Dawn misunderstood this. “See? I didn’t mean what I said, and neither did you.” She tightened the belt on her robe, almost looking as though it was in triumphant. Spike looked at her for a split second, then grabbed and kissed her, his mouth hungrily seeking hers. Then, by the time she got over the shock and began kissing him back he pulled away. “Did that seem like I meant it??” He demanded. Dawn looked at him, frowning. “Spike, you actually did?” It was barely a question, more of a statement. “But…why? Why would some vampire, over a hundred, wanna be any where near me?” “Don’t ask me why like that. Don’t say it like you don’t deserve for me to love you. I don’t bloody deserve you.” Spike told her. “You love me?” Dawn asked, unable to hide the shock and happiness. “Yeah. What of it?” Spike smirked. Dawn's face broke into a smile, as she grabbed him in a hug. “Spike! I can’t believe this!” She was holding onto him tightly, as if she thought he might disappear if she let go. “Bloody hell, nibblet! Good thing I don’t need to breathe!” He chuckled. She pulled away slightly, but still kept her arms round him. “Sorry.” Her face flushed a little with embarrassment. She smiled at him, then it faltered a little. “Ok, I think I need to get dressed. I’ve just realised I’m here hugging you wearing nothing but a robe.” She stepped back self-consciously. “I aint complaining.” Spike grinned. Dawn smiled too, “I’ll bet. But still, you wanna wait downstairs while I get dressed?” “No.” Spike joked, but turned to leave. Dawn walked him to her bedroom door and kissed him, her lips lightly brushing his. She ran a finger over his scarred eyebrow, she had always found it incredibly sexy, it was one fault on his seemingly perfect face, but it wasn’t an imperfection to Dawn, it added to his Bad Boy image. “Get dressed, I’ll be downstairs.” Spike said, kissing her cheek and then leaving the room. Dawn sighed happily, she pulled on a pair of black trousers and a pink coloured camisole top. She slipped her feet into her sneakers and ran a brush through her hair, before making her way downstairs. She found Spike sat on the couch. He was toying with the remote, rolling it around in his hands, while some old movie played in the background. “Hey.” Dawn said as she entered the living room. Spike looked up and smiled. He reached a hand out, which Dawn took, pulling her on his lap. He entwined his arms round her waist. She kissed him, this time allowing it to continue longer than the last. She breathed him in, trying soak him up, again afraid this was a mistake on his part, that he was going to realise this was Dawn Summers, not some Slayer, or his sire, or some other immortal demon. She was just a girl. When they finally separated Spike smirked at her, “Maybe we ought to get you drunk more often.” “I don’t think so.” Dawn laughed. “Well, luv, they do say when you’re drunk, the truth comes out.” |