Inell's Fanfiction Archive

The moon cast an eerie glow upon the commons of the University of Sunnydale. A warm wind blew the leaves, the only sound upon the quiet campus. The grounds were empty as Tara made her way from Willow's dorm room to her own. She couldn't contain the small smile that crossed her face as she thought of her new lover. She knew Willow wasn't in love with her. She wasn't in love with Willow either, though she did care about the redhead. She thought it might blossom into love if given the time. It was still so soon. She knew Willow was still moving past Oz, the first love of her life. She was just happy to be the one helping her new friend move on.

She heard leaves rustling and stilled. She breathed in the night, enjoying the stillness. Reluctantly, she continued on her way back to her dorm. She made it a few feet before she heard the sound. Someone was following her. She felt goosebumps as she felt eyes on her back. She began to walk faster, her eyes on the dorm ahead of her. She let her eyes dart across the deserted the campus, wishing someone were around. She heard a growl and froze in her steps.

The wolf watched its prey, the familiar scent in the air. It moved forward, snarling as the girl stopped. It watched the girl begin to run and growled. It began to move faster, it's teeth grabbing her leg and bringing her to the ground. It heard her scream before it ripped into her neck. The wolf pulled away, looking at the suddenly quiet girl cautiously. It sniffed, the scent still in the air. It recognized the smell. The wolf moved down her body, biting and gnawing as it went. It finally pulled back, blood covering its snout. With a sneeze, the wolf left the bloody body as it loped off.

********************

Willow lay in bed, her eyes on the ceiling above her. Tara had just left a few minutes before. She felt so confused. Oz had left the day before. She had sent him away. She had been surprised when she had seen him again that she was no longer in love with him. Her feelings had faded with time. Tara had helped a lot. Her feelings for the girl were still unclear to her. She liked being with her. It was nice being needed again. She smiled as she remembered Buffy's reaction. Her newfound interest in girls had surprised most of her friends. Spike was the only one that seemed to accept it easily. Of course, he was the one who knew her better than anyone. Even more than Tara.

Willow sat up when she heard the loud siren of the ambulance. She frowned, sighing. Someone else had discovered what lurked in the darkness of Sunnydale. Poor person, she thought. Why didn't people learn? She laid back down, the scent of her and Tara's love making still on her sheets. She was having sex with another girl. She still couldn't believe it. She didn't love Tara, though she did like her. It was nice being a part of an us again. Besides, they had so much in common. It was like friendship with benefits. She smiled as she thought of that. She hoped Oz made it wherever he was going safely. She still had love for him, she just wasn't in love. Funny how things could change in such a short span of time. She closed her eyes as the sirens got louder. Usual nighttime sounds in Sunnydale.

********************

Willow walked into Giles apartment, her face expressionless. The others looked up, surprised by her appearance. Spike saw the red in her eyes and knew she had been crying. He had thought she was over the wolf. Was she upset he had left? Spike had thought she had moved on to the witch. "You ok luv?"

Willow looked at him, blinking away tears. She moved into his arms, startling him. "No...I'm not."

"What's wrong Wills?" Buffy asked, glancing at the others to see their reactions.

"Tara" Willow said, sobbing into Spike's chest.

"What about her?" Anya asked, feeling as if she were playing some sort of guessing game.

"She's dead" Willow said, pulling away from Spike to look at them.

"What?" Riley demanded, feeling Buffy stiffen.

"She was found early this morning....she was attacked by something" Willow said softly. "I even heard the ambulance."

"By what?" Spike asked, his eyes narrowed.

Willow looked at him, "A wild animal of some sort."

"A werewolf?" Xander demanded, thoughts of Oz in her mind.

Willow nodded, "Her throat was ripped out and she was eaten. It could have been a wolf..."

"I'll find him and kill him" Buffy said.

"Him who?" Willow asked, knowing who Buffy was thinking about.

"Oz" Buffy said, rolling her eyes. "Who do you think?"

"He is gone. He left the other day" Willow said. "It wasn't him."

"Whatever. Who else could it be?" Riley asked.

"I don't know. But it wasn't Oz" Willow said, her hand holding tightly to Spike's. "He wouldn't have killed her."

"You chose her over him" Anya pointed out bluntly.

"I'd say he might be a bit pissed" Xander agreed.

"IT WASN'T OZ!" Willow yelled. "He knew she made me happy. He wouldn't do this to me."

"Maybe it was just an animal" Spike said softly, not sure if it was the wolf boy or not, but knowing the questions were upsetting Willow. She had just found at her lover had been killed and they were pestering her.

"It was Oz" Buffy said, "I'll kill him if I see him again."

Willow was stopped from answering by a knock on the door. Giles opened it, admitting Graham. The young man came inside, noticing the tension immediately. He looked at Riley, "Uh...you said to meet you here before patrol."

"Yeah...Graham, do you know everyone?" Riley asked.

"I think I've seen them" Graham answered, his eyes going to the redhead with the tear stained face. "Everything ok?"

Willow nodded, wiping her face. She looked at Spike, "I need to walk. Come with me?"

Spike nodded, his eyes on the newest addition to the room. He sensed something off in the man. He protectively put his arm around Willow as he steered her from the room. A scent in the air caught his attention, but it was passing. He frowned, trying to place it.

"Be careful Willow...he might come after you" Buffy warned, visions of killing Oz in her mind.

"It wasn't him" Willow said, disgust in her voice. Why wouldn't they listen?

Graham watched her leave, a slight grimace crossing his handsome face as he watched her leave with the vampire. He could smell two scents on her. One was distant yet familiar. The other was stronger....he knew it. Where had he smelled that scent before? He groaned, his head pounding. He couldn't remember. He looked back at the others, hoping they hadn't noticed his lapse. Visions of a blonde girl, the smell and blood assaulted him. He felt ill as he tried to remember what had happened to him the night before. It was a complete blank.

********************

Willow walked beside Spike in silence. She couldn't believe that Tara was dead. She felt as if she were finally getting on with her life to have this happen. The rug had been pulled out from under her. She felt as if Tara would still be alive if only she had insisted she remain for the entire evening. It was still so early in their relationship though and neither girl wanted to commit to an all night question and answer that other members of the dorm would object them to. It was partially her fault that Tara was dead.

Spike frowned as he walked. He had no idea what to tell her. He wasn't used to dealing with humans and their sorrow, unless he was the one causing it. He didn't want to do or say the wrong thing because he liked Willow and didn't want to upset her even more. So, he remained silent. He figured if she wanted to talk, she'd talk. Until then, he could offer what small comfort his presence gave her. He was being better than her so-called friends. All of them ready to accuse the ex-boyfriend rather than listen to her. If she didn't believe Wolf Boy had done it, that was good enough for him. He reached out and took her hand, squeezing it softly as he looked straight ahead. He wanted to remember that she wasn't alone. Not this time.

Willow felt the cold hand on hers and glanced curiously at Spike. Over the last few months, she and the vampire had grown closer together. She had to admit that she had a crush on him. Tara had even realized that, often teasing her when they were alone about her jealousy of the closeness between Willow and Spike. She looked away from him, thinking about Tara. Who had killed her? Was it just another random attack in Sunnydale? She was convinced that it wasn't Oz. He had left. She knew that. But, she had to know what had really killed Tara. Was it a wild animal as the idiot police suggested? She doubted it. No, it had to have been a demon or a werewolf. If it were the former, she had to know so that Buffy could be ready to fight it. If it were the latter, she wanted to know so that she could try to find out who it was. Did the person even realize he or she had killed someone? She almost felt sorry for them if they were unaware. She was reminded of Oz and his guilt over Veruca. At least she had not been human when he killed her. What would he have been like if he had killed a human? She tightened her hold on Spike's hand, knowing she would have to find answers to her questions. It was only fair to Tara to find out what had killed her.

Spike walked with Willow to her dorm, seeing the wheels turning in her head. He saw her frown at the building and then look at him. "You ok pet?"

She smiled softly, "You're asking me that a lot tonight..."

Spike just looked at her, still unsure what the best way of helping her was. He knew she had been fond of the witch, but he also knew it hadn't been a deep love. She was sad, unhappy yes...but there was not deep grief. Luckily, she had not had time to fall in love with the girl before she had died. He waited, his blue eyes staring into hers.

Willow sighed, "I can't sleep in there tonight...not this soon."

He blinked at her, realizing what she was talking about. He waited.

"Could I..." she bit her lip, "I know this goes way beyond the boundaries of our friendship...but would it be possible..."

Spike took her hand and began to walk, he glanced at her, smiling, "You need to stay with me tonight. You shouldn't be alone. The slayer will be playing house with farm boy, so you get stuck with me."

Willow smiled, relief in her face. "Thank you so much Spike."

He shrugged, "Eh, just don't tell anyone I was nice, ok? I still have a reputation, you know."

"You forced me into it...wasn't nice at all." She said, reassuring him that his reputation was safe with her. She felt his arm go around her shoulders as they walked in comfortable silence to his new apartment, each lost in their thoughts.

********************

Riley Finn looked in the darkness, ready for anything that might attack. He glanced at Graham and noticed that his friend seemed to be lost in space. He frowned, snapping his fingers in front of the man's face. "Wake up!"

Graham blinked, scowling at Riley. "I'm awake."

Riley snorted, "Yeah...right. Come on. Let's head North...I want to check the area where they found Tara....see if I see anything suspicious."

Graham nodded, following behind his friend. He smelt something on the air, and glanced around. Holding his weapon, he froze. Whispering, "Vampires."

Riley stopped and looked around. "What? I don't see anything."

Graham sniffed the air, looking right. "There. I can smell them. Be ready."

Riley started to laugh, "Smell them? They just get dug up? Really, man...you need to get out..."

His words were cut off as three vampires came out of the bushes. The men began to fight, Graham easily taking one. Soon, they were one on one as each man and vampire held his own. Riley felt himself pushed, his head hitting the side of the tombstone. He could have sworn he heard a low growl as all went black.

Graham felt something inside him snap as he was hit by the vampire. He saw Riley fall and heard a growl. It came from him, he realized. Ignoring that fact, he moved quickly, surprising the vampire. Soon, another was dusted. The remaining vampire looked at him frowning. He watched it face him, each man intent on surviving. He moved quickly, tumbling on the ground as he picked up a stick. He stood, the stick piercing the surprised vampire's heart. Graham glanced at Riley, disgust in his eyes. The idiot had been told that vampires were there. Did he listen? Ha, did he ever?

Graham thought about leaving his friend there. Serve him right for doubting me, Graham thought. He frown as he wondered how it was he could smell the vampires. He never had noticed a distinctive smell before. Maybe he was growing some sort of alarm system around them, he decided. Sighing, he went and retrieved his weapon. It was too late to be worried about answers to impossible questions. He moved down, slinging Riley's unconscious form over his shoulder. He'd drop his commander off with his girlfriend. Let her take care of him for awhile. He felt suddenly rather tired. He was also hungry. Very hungry. He decided to drop Riley off, pick up some hamburgers and then sleep for a few hours. Smiling, he nodded in satisfaction at his plan and headed back to the dorm.

********************

Willow followed Spike into his apartment, thankful that he was no longer staying in the crypt. She fell onto the couch and sighed, putting her head between her knees. She felt so tired. The events of that day had finally caught up to her. She felt a hand on her back, moving in comforting circles. She sighed, looking at Spike. She smiled slightly, "Thank you."

Spike brushed away a tear, his calloused finger rough on her sensitive skin. She felt his eyes as they looked into her soul. "Welcome pet. You want something to eat? Drink?"

"Some water." Willow said, not wanting him to leave her...even to go to the kitchen.

"When is the last time you ate?" Spike asked, his hand still cradling her cheek tenderly.

"Um..." Willow bit her bottom lip as she thought about it.

"That's too long" he said, standing. His voice was gruff as he realized how soft he was being. "You need to eat. Don't need you dying on us too."

Willow blanched at his words, visions of Tara in her mind. She brought her knees up to her chin, her arms going around them. She blinked away tears as he stood. "Not hungry."

"Don't make me force you" Spike warned, standing. "Stay here and rest. You look tired."

"What are you doing?" Willow asked, not wanting to be alone. She was still worried about what may have killed Tara. Besides that, she hated the idea of being alone.

"Getting you something to eat" he said, going into the kitchen and opening some soup. He had bought several varieties of human food for her visits when he had first moved into the place. Over the last few weeks he had learned her likes and dislikes rather well. He felt her presence in the kitchen and looked at her.

"You're making soup" she said softly, her eyes wide.

"Duh" he responded, using a word he had learned from Harmony.

She giggled before her face looked stricken. "I can't laugh."

"Why not, luv?" he asked, moving to make her a grilled cheese sandwich to go with her soup. He felt her eyes on his movements, so he kept his back to her.

"Tara died today" she said quietly. "I liked her a lot....she was my lover. Yet, here I am laughing. She hasn't been dead even a day...I'm a terrible person!"

Spike sighed loudly, "You aren't throwing a party, pet. It was a laugh. Would the little witch want you to be depressed?"

"No" she said softly, "Tara wouldn't want me to be unhappy. God, Spike. I don't know how to react...."

He turned at her words, seeing the look of utter despair on her face. He flipped the sandwich, studying her. "I think you're reacting just fine. You're still in shock. You cared about her, but you weren't in love. She was a close friend. Tomorrow, it may make more sense."

"I don't know" Willow said, hating herself for not being more upset. She felt bad that Tara was dead, but she wasn't as upset as she would have been if it had been Buffy or Xander. Well, as she would have been before that night. Their reactions had stunned her. They had to blame Oz. She felt herself falling to the floor, tears on her face. What if they were right? What if she was wrong and Oz had stayed in town to kill Tara? That would mean that she had caused Tara's death. And here she was laughing at Spike's joke. She felt cold hands jerk her face up.

"No more pity" Spike said sharply. "You didn't kill her. Cry at losing her if you must. But don't cry because you feel guilty or want to believe those morons' words. Now, get up and eat something before I lose you."

Willow nodded, feeling somewhat reassured by his words. He was right. She missed Tara but it wasn't her fault. "Yes, Spike. Am I bad for not mourning more?"

"You're far from bad, luv. Now, eat." Spike said, wondering how women's minds worked. They never made sense to him. She was crying earlier, her tears had fallen onto his hand. Now, she was feeling guilty because she felt she hadn't cried enough. Silly creatures, women. He guided her to his table as he laid out her food. He sat down, his blue eyes watching her as she ate. He said, "Tell me about her."

"Her?" Willow looked up.

"Your little witch. I didn't know her. Tell me about her" Spike asked.

Willow chewed her food, surprised by the curiosity she saw in his eyes. She smiled softly as she began to talk about her friend and the times she had shared with her. Spike listened intently, smiling at her memories.

********************

It had been a week since Tara's death. Willow had practically moved in with Spike, taking over his extra room. She felt safe around him. He didn't pester her and make her feel guilty. He also trusted her judgment and believed that Oz was not the one who had murdered Tara. Of course, she had yet to figure out who had killed her lover. Since that night, there had been no other strange deaths. She had to admit she had noticed that the night Tara had died was the final night of a full moon. There was enough evidence to point to a werewolf that she had her suspicions. She had not shared her thoughts with Spike or the others knowing that there would be a good chance they would take that as a sign that it was Oz.

She had found out that Tara had no living relatives. So, it had fallen onto her to hold the service. Tara had no friends besides her so she had just had the witch cremated. She and Spike had taken her ashes to the cliffs over looking the ocean and spread them out several days before at midnight. It had seemed as good a place as any plus Tara had loved the ocean. Willow knew she would be happy drifting in the ocean's waves, at one with a place she had always loved. Willow had been thankful that Spike had volunteered to go with her. No one else had. Hell, she had hardly spoken to Buffy since that night. To any of them since that night. They seemed either to not know what to tell her or to blame her in a way for Oz having struck...she also thought that Buffy blamed her for not immediately accusing Oz and wanting some sort of revenge. They had not given her a chance to explain anything. They never listened to her. Spike was at least allowing her to mourn in her own way.

Willow honestly didn't know what she would have done if he had not been with her throughout this entire ordeal. Probably either go insane or maybe kill Buffy or one of the others. She looked up at him as he walked into the living room. He had just woken up. She smiled at the directions his hair was going in. He scowled as he went into the kitchen. She listened as he opened the fridge and then she heard the microwave as he heated his afternoon blood. She knew from the past few days not to speak to him until he had eaten in the morning. Spike was definitely not a morning person.

Spike wandered in, sipping his blood as if he were a dying man. Well, undying actually. She waited until he sighed in satisfaction knowing he was waking up. "Morning pet."

"Afternoon, Spike" she said, smiling.

"How were classes today?" he asked, sitting down and crossing his ankles.

"Fine Dad. Had some homework but it's almost done" she said, smirking at him.

"And did you see the bad kids?" he asked, his tone sarcastic.

"Nope. No Buffy or Riley to be seen." She replied, rolling her eyes at his words. "But of course, I skipped Psych again. Can't talk to either of them right now...."

"I can hire someone to kill em luv" he offered eagerly. He had never been fond of the slayer but her treatment of Willow these last few days really pissed him off. He wanted nothing more than to see her die slowly.

"Thanks Spike, but that really wouldn't solve anything" she said, laughing at his sullen expression.

"You're too soft, Red. Fine...I won't have them raked over hot coals. If you change your mind, be sure to let me know." He added.

"You'll be the first, Spike" she said. "So, after I finish this reading you want to go with me to grab a bite to eat?"

"Not like I have anything better to do" he said, smiling at her. "Love to, Red."

"Good. I don't like being out alone right now...too soon I guess." She said softly.

"We can get you some food and then maybe take a walk. I might even find some demons to beat."

"I'll keep my fingers crossed for you, Spike" she said, laughing as she went back to her reading and he went to get dressed.

********************

Graham stumbled through the alley. He felt awful. Something was happening to him and he had no idea what. He was scared and angry. Scared of what it could be and angry that he had no idea. For a little over a week, he had been able to smell the vampires and demons they were fighting nightly. That wasn't normal. He couldn't go to Riley or Forrest about this. They wouldn't understand. So, he had pushed them away as he sunk into a desperate mood.

He stiffened, smelling the now familiar scent of vampire. He sniffed the air again. He knew this vampire. He turned, his body taut with tension as he faced Hostile 17. He brought his hand to his weapon, feeling the comforting feel of metal underneath his hand. He looked into knowing blue eyes and waited.

Spike had been tracking this youth since the night after Tara's burial. He had sensed the change in the boy at the apartment that evening, but he had been too worried about Willow to pay attention. It was only afterwards, while he had laid awake in his bed listening to Willow's thrashing beside him, that he had realized what he had sensed. Wolf. This was the wolf that had killed Tara...that had upset Willow so much. He saw the uncertain, wild look in the man's eyes and knew instantly that the poor kid had no idea what he was...what he had done. "A bit dangerous...walking around here alone."

Graham snorted, "Like you're really worried about my safety, vampire."

Spike lit a cigarette, "Name's Spike, kid. Remember that."

"Name's Graham, Spike" Graham said, spitting out the vampire's name. He saw amusement flash in blue eyes and felt anger go through his body.

Spike saw the anger and the way the boy's body stiffened. Such power. And the silly sap had no idea what to do with it. Spike smiled, "Kid, you have no idea what you are, do you?"

Graham saw the knowledge in Spike's eyes. "What do you know? Did you do this?"

Spike laughed, "Sorry, chap. Not me. You're still alive. If it had been me, you'd be dead. Besides, silly chip in my head. Duh."

Graham moved quickly, pinning the vampire against the brick wall. He saw the surprise in the blue eyes as he moved against the vampire threateningly. "What do you know?"

Spike felt anger course through him. He suddenly was struck by a thought. Graham was a werewolf. He was no longer human. Spike pushed back, feeling no head pain. He laughed as he threw Graham against the wall, this time catching the youth off guard. He felt a familiar lust go through him as the two men began to fight. Punches were thrown and the sound of grunts and slaps were all that echoes through the alley. Spike heard a growl and withdrew from Graham.

Graham licked blood from his lip, trying to understand what was happening. He looked at Spike and saw something similar in the man's eyes. He glanced down at his erection, wondering when fighting had started to turn him on. He looked up into demonic yellow eyes, his eyes finding Spike's own erection. No, he amended. Not fighting...fighting Spike. He shook his head, not understanding. "You can't hurt humans...the implant."

Spike had to laugh, "You don't get it, do you? You're aren't human anymore."

Graham moved, pushing Spike to the ground. He covered the blonde's lean body with his own. "I am human!"

Spike just laughed at the boy's ignorance, arching his body up. He knew this boy was a friend of the slayer's puppy. But, he'd seen the way the kid had asked about Willow. He had actually cared if she was ok. He seemed lost and confused, much like Willow was right now. Besides that, he had a hard body, a masculine smell and beautiful eyes. Fuck Angelus, he cursed mentally. The damn poof of a sire had ruined him. Often before they would fuck, they would fight. He loved fighting with his sire and then making up in a rough, bloody fuck. He rubbed his cock against Graham, not surprised to find the boy's own cock against his stomach. He had seen the lust in the wolf's eyes. He was tired of fighting, horny as hell, and he wanted to fuck. He moved fast, turning them over. He caught the boy's mouth with his own, the lust flaring beyond their control. Clothes were torn off as growls and grunts again filled the alley as the wolf and the vampire gave into their inner demons.

********************

Spike stood up, glancing at the boy laying on the alley floor. He looked away, ashamed that he had given in to his demon. He had fucked this boy like some animal. He had thought he was passed this. He wasn't. He ran a hand through his hair as he buttoned his jeans with his free hand. Fuck. What had he done? He watched as the boy sat up, his eyes looking around in panic.

Graham felt a burning in his body. He was in pain as he tried to sit up. He looked down at his body, seeing the blood and scratches. He ran a hand over the deep cuts on his chest, remembering in vivid detail the black fingernails digging into his flesh. He looked up and saw Spike looking at him with a mixture of pity and desire. He stood, grimacing as the pain shot through his ass. He couldn't believe he had fucked another man. Not only that, but the way they had fucked like some sort of animals. He felt self loathing go through him as he scrambled to pull his jeans up. He looked at Spike, not knowing what to say or do.

"Come on" Spike finally said. He moved from the alley, not giving Graham a chance to refuse. He couldn't believe what he had done. Damn, he couldn't believe he was taking the confused kid in. But, he felt pity for him in a way. The poor bloke had no idea what was lurking inside.

Graham scrambled to follow the vampire. He was so confused at what was happening to him. Spike had shown some knowledge when he had looked at him. Maybe he could give him some answers. He wasn't ashamed of what they had done in the alley. He was just scared of what he was turning into. Not that he was planning on repeating that act anytime soon. He walked slowly, his body screaming in protest. He saw Spike look back at him, the vampire pausing, his eyes cold and hard.

Spike waited until the stocky youth caught up with him. He then began to walk again, heading towards his apartment. Towards Willow. He had a brief worry about Willow's reaction to Graham. This was the man that had killed her lover, even if he was unaware of it. If Willow wanted Graham killed, Spike would arrange it. He would do anything for the redhead. Even kill a confused kid. He had seen the look of worry cross the boy's face. He was scared spitless, that Spike knew. Spike again cursed his weakness at feeling pity for this man. He only could hope that Willow forgave him for bringing the wolf home. Maybe between them, they could find some answers and move on.

********************

Willow heard the door open and close. She got out of bed, walking barefoot to the living room. She stopped when she saw Spike standing there, his clothes ripped and blood on him. Her eyes widened even more when she saw that he had someone with him that looked about the same. "Spike?"

Spike looked up, grimacing as he saw Willow's scared look. "Hello pet. Did we wake you?"

She shook her head, moving to him. "I couldn't sleep without you here."

"Aw, sweets" Spike said. "Come here."

Willow stepped into his arms, hugging him tightly. He had become her anchor during the last weeks. She was telling the truth. She had spent hours tossing and turning, not able to sleep in the apartment alone. Most evenings, he would lay in her bed with her, his arms holding her as she slept. He had spoiled her to his touch.

Graham shifted uncomfortably, watching as Spike tenderly held the redhead. He had had no idea that the two were involved. He felt guilty for what had happened in the alley earlier. He had had sex with Willow's lover. He saw Spike look up at him, his blue eyes narrowing as he saw Graham looking at the door. He had no intention of letting the boy leave...not until he knew exactly what he was now. He was a danger until then.

"Graham, why don't you take a shower" Spike said, his question not being a question at all.

Graham nodded, accepting the vampire's control of him. He knew who the primary was in their relationship. Did they even have a relationship? He had never spoken to Spike until that night. But, he had seen the knowledge in his blue eyes. He had to know what was happening to him. Besides that, he felt calmer around Spike. He didn't understand why, but he didn't understand very much anymore. "Thanks."

Willow watched as the attractive man went into the bathroom. She looked up at Spike, curiosity in her green eyes. "Graham? That's Riley's friend...why is he here and what happened to you two?"

"Pet, let's sit down." Spike said, pulling her to sit beside him. He wasn't sure how she was going to react but he knew that they had to do something for Graham.

"What is it Spike?" she asked, her knee touching his. She looked at him, worry in her eyes.

"Well, pet. It's like this. Graham was bitten by a werewolf a couple of weeks ago. Poor bloke has no idea what he is now...."

"A werewolf?" Willow said, her voice shaking. "He doesn't know?"

Spike shook his head. "He and I had a bit of a fight...got bloody...got demony."

"Poor guy" Willow said softly, not even being able to imagine what Graham was going to go through when he found out.

"Willow..." Spike said, catching her eyes. "There is something else."

"What?" Willow asked, not wanting to examine the feelings that Spike's touch was causing in her body.

Spike said it quietly, waiting to see her reaction. "I think Graham is the one that killed Tara."

********************

"Tara" Willow said softly, her hands digging into the couch cushion.

Spike nodded, watching her carefully. "I may be wrong, but I doubt it."

Willow closed her eyes, a calmness overcoming her. She finally had the answer. It hadn't been Oz...it had been Graham. "He has no idea."

Spike heard her state the fact, not asking a question but accepting it. "No."

Willow looked up, confusion in her green eyes. "Damn it. Why did you tell me?"

"What?" Spike asked, "I thought you wanted to know."

"I didn't. Not really...goddess, I don't know anymore. I should hate him. I do hate him for what he did....he killed a good friend. But, he doesn't even know. I feel sorry for him knowing what his future is going to be like. How can I feel pity for someone I should hate?"

"Human emotions are messy, pet" Spike said, taking her hands from the cushions and holding them in his. "Too many conflicts in my opinion. What do you want me to do?"

Willow dropped her eyes at his question. "You said you got demony...did you and he uh...you know?"

Spike chuckled at her stammered question, "Been reading more of those watcher journals, eh pet?"

"Spike...did you assert your dominance?" she asked, her voice hesitant.

"Yes. I fucked him silly, Red." Spike said, smiling at her blush.

"Oh goddess" Willow said, heat spreading over her at the image his words produced. Stop it Willow, she scolded herself. That wolf killed Tara....killed your lover.

"I can kill him, Willow" Spike said softly. He saw her glance at him wide eyed. "He's a demon, pet. Not a human...not anymore. If you ask me to, I can simply break his neck and dispose of the body."

"I..I uh..." She saw the truth and in his eyes and froze. For the past weeks, she had wanted revenge on whomever had killed Tara. She had envisioned torture and murder in her mind. And she knew with two words she would have Graham's dead body in front of her within five minutes. The decision had been easy before she knew the details. Now, she had no idea what to do. "He deserves to know what he is."

"Poor kid" Spike said, making a face. "Has no bloody idea he's a killer. Might be better for him to just kill him fast and easy."

"It's going to be hard for him....I mean, he's become what he has spent years fighting" Willow said softly, moving to hug Spike. She felt his arms embrace her and suddenly felt safe again. "I can't imagine what it would be like to deal with not only that but also the fact that you killed someone...."

"Won't be easy, that's for sure" Spike said, his hands rubbing her arms.

"He killed Tara. I know he deserves to die, but I can't simply tell you to do it. I mean, holding his life in my hands? I don't want that power...." Willow said, her voice soft but frightened.

"I'll do whatever you ask" Spike said simply. For some odd reason, he felt sorry for the human, but he loved Willow. He'd do anything for her, even kill the wolf.

"Tara is gone." Willow said. "Nothing can bring her back."

Spike heard the shower stop. "He's almost done, luv. What do you want me to do? Kill him? Or?"

"It's going to be hard for him....his demon has been dominated by yours...that's good. You can control him a bit....He's not going to know what to do...I remember Oz having to deal with it....And he hadn't committed murder. It was tough enough just being a werewolf for him......I can't even begin to think what Graham will experience."

"Luv, he's going to be out soon. He's the one that killed your little friend. I promised you that I'd find the one who did it. I did. Now, do you want me to kill him or what?" Spike asked softly, almost smiling at her babbling.

Willow sighed, "I want us to help him. He's going to need us....."

********************

Willow lay in the bed, Spike's cold arm around her waist. She stared unblinkingly at the ceiling, lost in her thoughts. After Spike's announcement, she had gone into the bedroom waiting for Graham to finish his shower. She and Spike had decided not to mention anything to him about his new status until the morning. To Willow, it had been too much too soon. She knew the boy wouldn't understand easily and she wanted this to be easy for him. Easy? What was easy anymore?

The person responsible for Tara's death....for her lover's death....now lay sleeping on Spike's sofa. She should have wanted nothing more than for Spike to simply kill the man, her thirst for revenge satisfied. But, she hadn't wanted revenge. Revenge and Graham's death would not bring Tara back. Nothing would do that, not that she would ask it. She had cared for the blonde witch and would mourn her, but she wouldn't ask for her life back. Living on the Hellmouth had taught her not to wish those things lightly. It had simply been Tara's time and all Willow could hope was that she had gone quietly and with little pain. She heard a low moan coming from the living room. For the past half hour, there had been moaning and whimpers coming from the other room.

Willow moved Spike's arm, careful not to wake the vampire. She knew how restless he always seemed to be and how hard it was for him to finally drift into a peaceful sleep. She had no intention of disturbing that few moments of peace he got. She got out of bed, padding barefoot into the living room. She saw Graham's large body laying uncomfortably on the couch. She grimaced as she saw how cramped up he was. He was too tall to sleep on such a small space. She sat down on the table beside the couch, simply watching him toss and turn in his sleep. She saw the way his cheek was twitching and knew he was dreaming. She reached her hand up and brushed away a stray lock of hair from his forehead. She let her hand remain there on his warm forehead as she continued to silently watch him, again lost in her thoughts.

********************

Willow was gone. Spike knew this as soon as he drifted from his dream. He sat up, a scowl on his handsome face. He had grown use to waking up with her beside him. He didn't like the emptiness in the bed. He could hear her heartbeat coming from the living room. She was awake. The other heartbeat was slower. She was with Graham. He stood, pulling on his jeans. Over the last weeks, Willow had grown accustomed to his sleeping habits. She knew he slept nude and always managed to avoid looking at him. The few times her gaze had strayed a bit too low, her cheeks had flamed scarlet and she'd turned away. He sighed, running a hand through his blonde hair as he walked into the living room.

He froze at the sight of her. She was so damn beautiful...and completely oblivious. Her red hair fell across her cheek, the tip brushing against her pink lips. He saw her hand on a sleeping Graham's forehead, her eyes on the man's face. He felt a spark of jealousy that she had left his bed, in a sense, to seek out this human. The jealousy fled when he heard her soft voice.

"Did I wake you?" Willow asked, sensing Spike's presence. She looked at him, a soft smile crossing her face.

"Neh, pet" he said, his voice still thick from sleep. He walked to her, proud that she had known when he had entered the room. "Can't sleep?"

She frowned, "He's having nightmares. I couldn't sleep."

Spike nodded, seeing the gentle way she was stroking the wolf's head. He sat on the table behind her, pulling her into his arms. He put his head on her shoulder, taking her free hand and stroking the palm. "Poor bloke has no idea what he's in store for."

"I know" she said sadly, sighing happily as she leaned into Spike's comforting arms. She let her head rest on his chest, her hand still stroking Graham's head. "I'm so tired."

Spike brushed a soft trail of kisses along her neck and shoulder. "Then sleep baby. I won't let you go."

Willow smiled as she closed her eyes, safe in Spike's arms as she continued to soothe Graham's nightmares.

********************

Graham opened his eyes, startled to feel something warm against his face. He saw a hand and trailed it up a slender arm to the sleeping redhead. Her pretty was resting against a hard chest. Graham heard a soft growl and his eyes found Spike's. He looked away, not wanting to acknowledge what had happened to him. He had had nightmares all night. Visions of blood and screaming. He knew he had caused the screams and felt guilt for something he couldn't even explain. He ran a hand over his face as he tried to regain his composure. He heard a soft sigh and his eyes instinctively flew to the girl in Spike's arms. He felt the tension leave him as she opened her eyes and stared at him, her grin sleepy.

"Morning" Willow said, moving to sit up. She glanced at Spike and saw that he had not moved them from the table. She licked her lips, trying to wake up completely.

"Morning" Graham said, his tone cautious. Her green eyes held the knowledge that Spike's did. She knew what was wrong him, he realized. And she was looking at him with affection despite knowing what it was. That made him feel a bit less worried.

Spike kept his arms possessively around Willow, wanting to make sure the other demon knew his claim. Well, the claim he intended to make. He nodded at the boy, gesturing to the couch, "Did you sleep well?"

Graham shrugged, "As well as I have lately. Damn nightmares."

"You were moaning a lot" Willow said softly, "I was a bit worried."

"Sorry" Graham said, "I didn't realize...."

"It's ok. After Tara died, well, if it hadn't been for Spike's arms I doubt I would have slept at all" Willow said.

Graham nodded, smiling slightly. He saw the way the vampire touched her, knew that this was the other demon's mate. He thought it amusing that she didn't realize it yet. He froze suddenly as he realized his thoughts. Other demon. He looked at Spike, saw the cold uncaring eyes staring at him and knew. He was a demon. "What am I?"

Willow moved forward, taking Graham's hand. She looked at Spike and scowled at his soft growl. What was his problem, she wondered. She looked back at Graham and asked, "A few weeks ago....were you bitten?"

He nodded, his eyes confused. "By some wolf....my god. No..."

Willow nodded, her eyes sad, "You're a werewolf, Graham."

********************

Graham heard her words and saw the pity in her eyes. He pulled back, shoving her away from him. "NO! You're lying!"

Willow whimpered as she hit the side of the table. She glanced down at her leg and knew she would bruise. She looked at Graham, her eyes widening as she saw Spike holding the boy by his neck. "Spike!"

Spike didn't listen to her, his blue eyes turning yellow as he looked into the wolf's face. "Willow doesn't lie. Apologize."

Graham felt himself lowering his head at Spike's tone. He glanced at Willow, "Sorry."

"Let him go, Spike" Willow said, standing and putting her hand on Spike's arm. She blinked as his yellow eyes glared at her.

"Go into the room" Spike said, knowing the wolf needed another lesson in who was boss. He didn't want Willow to witness the act, but knew he couldn't control his own demon for much longer. The damn impudent bastard had hurt his mate. He had to reassert his control over the wolf. "Please."

It was the soft please that did it. Willow knew that something was happening that she couldn't understand. Not yet at least. She had a good idea that the two strong willed men were fighting or at least their demons were. She moved to the bedroom, closing the door softly. She stood there for a few seconds...minutes...she didn't know how long. Until finally, she carefully opened the door. What she saw made her stop in her steps.

Graham was kneeling on the floor, his dark head bent in submission. Spike was thrusting slowly into him, pale hands clenched around a college sweatshirt. She licked her lips at the view. It was strange in a way to see someone of Graham's size being dominated by Spike. She had no doubt that that was what this was about either. The motions were not gentle or loving, though she could sense the restrained power in Spike. Just in the way his jaw was set and the clenching of his hands. He was trying to be gentle, in his way. She felt a heat spread through her as she continued to watch as Graham made an effort to move only to be restrained by the strength of Spike. Due to his chip, she had forgotten almost just how strong Spike truly was. He tried to hide it around Buffy, not wanting to remind her that he was still an enemy in that way. Willow bit her lip as she saw their movements become more rapid. She could tell in the way they were moving that the end was near, so to speak. She drew in a ragged breath as Spike's fangs sunk into Graham's neck causing the other man to cum. She turned and went back into the bedroom, shutting the door on the growls and moans. She hurriedly stripped and went to take a shower. A cold shower.

********************

Spike walked through the bedroom, closing the door quietly. He went directly to the bathroom, turning the water on. He slid his jeans down past his feet, kicking them off. He could smell the unique scent of Willow throughout the small bathroom. The smell of peaches, vanilla and baby powder that never failed to make his cock harden. He stepped underneath the cold stream of water, ready to wash the remains of his and Graham's coupling off of him. He willed his cock to soften, trying not to think of Willow laying in the next room.

He honestly was worried about how she would react to what she had seen. He knew she had watched him and Graham earlier. He had sensed her immediately. He also had smelled her arousal so he wasn't sure what to expect. He was in love with her. He had never imagined loving anyone other than Drusilla. Of course, he hadn't counted on finding someone like Willow. Over the past few months, he had been able to see every facet she had. The tears, the happiness, the joy, the grief, the fire. With every passing day, he found himself falling more underneath her spell. For that one reason, getting close to Willow, he had to thank the initiative. When he had first come to Sunnydale, he had had Drusilla and not been able to explore his attraction to the quiet redhead. Then, he had sought her out that drunken night a little over a year before. Of course, then, he had been to inebriated to do anything except whine and ramble. Now, though, he had been able to get to know her. He had just fallen deeper.

He stepped out of the shower, toweling himself off. He walked into the bedroom naked, simply stopping at the foot of the bed and watching her. She was so beautiful. He hesitated laying down, still worried about what Willow thought of him. He loved her, but his demon had to control Graham. The wolf was strong, and one day might be very powerful. Right now, he had no idea what to do. The demon would rule and get him killed without the proper lessons. Spike moved to lay beside her, smiling as she pushed back against him, sighing a contented little sigh. He put his arm around her, pulling her back against his body. He moved his body, trying to get his hardening cock away from her. He didn't want to scare her.

He froze when he realized she was pushing back, following his lower body. He could hear her breathing and knew she was awake and aware of her actions. He felt his cock rest against the soft silk of the sheets separating her ass from his cock. He groaned softly at the feel of the silken covered warmth against him. He heard her gasp as he began to rock against her bottom. He tightened his arm, his fingers clenching the sheet as he moved slowly. He knew her eyes would be clenched shut tightly and that in the morning she would act as if nothing had happened, so he was going to enjoy this. He didn't know why she was provoking him but he wouldn't look a gift horse in the mouth. He moved slowly, his arm moving up to brush against her breast. He smiled as he felt the hardened nipples poking through her sleeping shirt. He felt her body stiffen before relaxing against him, giving her silent permission for whatever he was doing.

He let his hand drift under the sheet, his hips still rocking against her. His fingers slid along the elastic of her panties and he heard her soft whimper. His cock throbbed at hearing her noises. He slid his hand under the elastic and moved it lower until he felt the soft curls of hair. He slid the hand lower, feeling her wetness. He slid a finger into her then added another. He began thrusting them in time with his own thrusts. He brushed his thumb in small circles over her clit, hearing her moan as she arched back against his cock. He began to speed up, both his hips and hand, as he felt his release coming. He wanted to bite into her, taste her sweet blood as they both climaxed, but he somehow knew it would ruin this particular moment. So, instead, he bit his lip tasting his own blood as he sent his seed onto the sheet covering her cute little ass. He heard her loud whimper as she coated his hand with her juices.

Spike felt her start to move away but tightened his hold, pulling her closer. He slid his hand from her, bringing it to his mouth. He moved his leg over hers to keep her from running away as he tasted her juices. He closed his eyes, savoring her unique flavor. He felt her tension leave her as she nestled back against him. Soon, her breathing slowed as she drifted into sleep in his arms.

********************

Graham stood outside the bedroom door for several moments simply staring at the wood. Finally, he reached out and opened the door. He walked into the dim room, his eyes finding the bed. The scent of sex lingered in the air, assaulting his senses. He recognized the scent of Spike mixed with a more pleasant, sweet smell. He moved to the end of the bed, his dark eyes finding Willow's face. He walked closer, simply staring at the beautiful girl. After he had been reminded of his place by Spike, he had sat on the sofa for hours just thinking about everything. He believed them both. He was a werewolf. The very thing he had spent years fighting and now he had become that evil. He hadn't been sure if he should run away or simply kill himself. Then, he had realized that he had been the one to kill the blonde girl, Tara he thought her name was. Willow's lover.

When he had realized that Willow knew of his identity and still wanted to help him adjust, all thoughts of suicide had left his mind. She believed in him...believed that he could control this demon. Had he been in her place, he would have wanted blood for the loss of a lover. Her trust and compassion drew him to her. He knew his future would be difficult. He couldn't even begin to understand what he was or what was going to happen to him. He did know that he could not tell Riley or the Initiative. He'd end up being experimented on in a cell if he did. The thought of confinement made his demon strain for control. He was being torn in so many directions he was going crazy. He heard Willow sigh in her sleep as she pushed back against Spike. Graham's eyes moved to the blonde vampire's face.

He didn't understand their relationship. He knew that his demon had been dominated by Spike's. He felt it cower when he looked at the vampire. He almost felt as if he had been mastered by the other man. For some reason, that gave him a sort of peace. He felt calmer being around Spike and Willow. The worries and fears just sort of faded away when they were in the room. Graham ran a hand over his face. He had been mastered by another man...even now ached for the feel of those cold hands on his hot flesh and he accepted it. Hell, he welcomed it. He had never had any sort of gay thoughts before so he didn't know if he was really like that or if it was merely the demon. He honestly wasn't that worried. To him, Spike was a safe harbor. A person that was willing to control him and help him learn that same control. He didn't really give a flying fuck if Spike was a man. For some reason, those moral questions no longer seemed relevant in his life. He needed Spike. It was that simple.

Graham moved to kneel beside the bed. He had tried to sleep, but the nightmares had been back in vivid color. He had actually been responsible for an innocent's death. He felt guilt and self hatred consume him, but he was trying to deal with all of it and it was completely overwhelming him. He laid his head on the mattress, by Willow's stomach. He stilled when he felt long fingers begin to caress his head. He whimpered softly, moving his head until it was cradled between Willow's warm breasts as the cool fingers danced fleetingly over his scalp in a soothing pattern. He sighed in contentment as sleep slowly overtook him.

********************

Willow woke up, surprised to feel warmth between her breasts. She looked down at the top of Graham's head nestled between them. He appeared to have crawled into the bed sometime during the night. She felt coldness behind her, trapping her in place. The silk sheet lay tangled near her feet allowing her to feel Spike's entire body through the thin cotton of her shirt and boxers. She especially noticed that cold hardness nestled against her ass. Vivid images of the night before flashed through her mind sending heat throughout her body. She couldn't believe she had acted so wantonly, practically raping him with her actions. She sighed, her hand moving to rest atop Spike's that was tangled in Graham's hair. This entire situation was just confusing her. She no longer knew what to feel or think. The boundaries had changed in the past few weeks. She just wasn't sure how.

Spike had woken when she had. He was surprised but pleased that she didn't run from the bed, finding refuge in the bathroom. It was a small step, but a rather important one. She was willing to accept her actions without embarrassment. He felt her warm hand on his and felt his cock harden even more. He could smell her arousal thick in the air. Bugger it, he decided. Slow seduction had been taking place for months. It was time for action. He was ready to take the next step. He moved his hand from Graham's hair, hearing her sharp intake of breath as she realized he was awake. He moved his hand underneath her shirt, carefully so he didn't wake Graham. He pushed it over her head, waiting for the word from her to stop. It didn't come. He smiled, hope and love in his eyes as he slowly slid her boxers down using first his hand then his leg.

Willow felt the cool air on her bare flesh as he stripped her. She gave a small gasp when his cold body touched her warmth. She moved her hands above her head, holding onto the metal bed frame as his lazily trailed kisses along her back. She bit her lip when his fingers slid inside her. She could hear the soft sound they made in her juices, not at all surprised that she was already wet. She had known that this was coming. The last few weeks had been mere foreplay for this main event. She wanted Spike. Had for quite a long time. These last few weeks, she had moved beyond simply wanting. She needed him. She loved him. She felt him shift on the bed and moaned softly as the tip of his cock slid across her wet cunt. She moved her leg, allowing him easier access. She groaned as he slowly glided into her, moving in small pushes allowing her a chance to grow accustomed to his width. She felt herself being stretched and filled more than she ever had. She hissed as he sunk in entirely, her butt against his stomach.

Ever so teasingly, he began to move. Willow felt his blunt teeth nipping at the flesh of her back and shoulders as she began to move back to meet his thrusts. She felt his cool fingers dance across her clit, sending tremors throughout her body. She exploded, her head going back against him, baring her neck. She felt his mouth move across it, again licking and sucking the flesh into his mouth. As she continued to move against him, she felt a warm tongue slide across her hard nipple. Startled, she looked down into Graham's tender gaze. She saw him hesitate a moment, as if waiting for permission. She smiled at him, not able to send him away. She gasped as he took her smile to be her consent and engulfed her breast into his mouth.

Willow felt Spike's thrust increase in speed. She tightened her muscles, making it tighter for him. She was rewarded by his gasp of pleasure. She entwined her fingers in Graham's hair as he continued to make love to her breasts. Spike continued to thrust for several more minutes, hours, days...she could no longer truly tell. She felt Graham's teeth scrape against her sensitive nipple and cried out in pleasure. Spike chuckled against her neck as he began to brush her clit with faster strokes. She felt herself cumming with a low groan. Spike bit into her neck, his tongue lapping at her blood as he sent his seed deep into her cunt. Willow collapsed back against him, her breathing ragged. She felt the warm mouth leave her breast as Graham shifted lower on the bed. Spike's arms tightened around her as he brought her to face him.

Instead of speaking, he claimed her mouth in a savage kiss, demonstrating exactly how he felt about her. She returned the kiss completely, hoping he knew how much she loved him. She continued to simply kiss him, breaking off for brief gulps of air, as Graham began to lick up the remains of her and Spike's release. Soon, she was moving against his face and talented tongue as Spike continued to make love to her mouth. She cried out as she came to another orgasm, this one from Graham. She shifted on the bed, turning to lay against Spike and trying to get a bit more sleep before the day began. Graham settled on the bed, after bringing himself to orgasm, with his head on her stomach, simply watching them both as they fell asleep.

********************

Willow walked into Giles' apartment, a small smile on her face. It had been a week since Graham had joined her and Spike's little family. It had gone well so far. She couldn't believe that Spike loved her as much as she loved him, but she could see the truth in each caress, each word, each look. She was happy. Graham was doing ok. It was so hard for him though. Spike knew a lot about controlling the demon, but he had no experience with the wolf aspects of Graham's new life. So, the handsome man was still a bit lost. She was hoping to find a book at Giles' that would help.

"Hey Wills" Xander called out when she walked in.

"Hi" she said, surprised to find the gang sitting around watching TV.

"Willow" Buffy said, her tone curt. Since Tara's death and the big fight over trying to find Oz to kill him, the two girls had hardly spoken.

"Buffy" Willow responded in the same tone of voice. "Hi Giles....I was wondering if you would let me look through your books?"

Giles looked at the girl, a puzzled look on his face. "Of course. Is there anything I could help you with?"

Willow shook her head. "Nah...I'm just browsing."

"Well, ask me if you need anything" Giles said. He hadn't really seen Willow since Tara's death and had been a bit worried that she was taking it hard. But, looking at her, she seemed happier than she had since he'd first met her. He had noticed the tension between her and the others and knew that it stemmed from her refusal to believe that Oz was responsible for Tara's death. Personally, he trusted Willow's judgment but the entire situation just seemed a bit coincidental to him.

Willow went to the bookcase and began checking the index for werewolf references. She listened with half an ear to the others silly conversations. She perked up when she heard Graham's name.

"Yeah, I don't know what's wrong with him." Riley was saying, shrugging. "He's turned into mystery man, never around anymore....he's practically moved out of his dorm room....he never patrols anymore. We haven't seen him at headquarters for a week I'd swear."

"It must be a woman" Xander said, excusing any strange behavior.

"Yeah, maybe. I dunno. Graham's never dated in the time I've known him. He was acting pretty weird even before the vanishing act though....never sleeping. And he was stronger than normal. I mean, he killed a few vamps one night and then carried me back to the room." Riley thought about it a moment. "You guys are probably right. I'm just worried. He's one of my best friends so....." he shrugged.

"I'm sure he's just going through something" Buffy said, patting his hand. "He could be freaking from all this initiative stuff and just wants to distance himself."

Willow couldn't believe that Buffy was actually concerned about someone other than herself. She would have to tell Graham that Riley was worried. He still refused to let anyone know about his change so he had alienated everyone except for her and Spike. She knew that eventually he would accept his wolfyness and be able to move past it. But, until then, she and Spike were his entire world. She sighed as she continued looking for something to help her new lover. The results so far were not promising. Just the same old stuff they already knew. She shut the last book, looking at the only two that had any relevant information. It was only six days until the next full moon. She knew what to do for him because of Oz, but she had learned that there was much more to it than she even knew. She ran a hand through her red hair, a perplexed look on her face. How was she suppose to help Graham when she had no idea what to do?

********************

"Damn it" Graham cursed, falling back in the chair until his head rested on it. "Nothing."

"I'm sorry" Willow said softly. "I just can't find anything. You may just have to wing it."

"Wing it? In three days I'm going to become something I use to think only existed in horror movies. Last month, I killed an innocent girl! That was one day! What the hell am I suppose to do over three?" Graham demanded, anger in his voice.

Willow glared at him, "You don't have to tell me about Tara's death. Ok? I know all about it. I've been busting my ass for over a week trying to find something that would make you feel better about all this, but I can't. You're a werewolf. Nothing will change that short of death so deal with it. Be glad you have someone that gives a shit about you enough to go through all this!"

"Enough" Spike said, his tone quiet but authoritative. His cold blue eyes found Graham, "You will never raise your voice at Willow again. This is not her fault. Quit blaming everyone and everything and accept it. Trust me when I say denying it does not make it go away. So, deal."

Graham swallowed, hating the truth in Spike's words. He was so mad about everything that he was lashing at everyone. He was going to have to accept it and trust them to keep him from killing anyone. "You're right. Sorry, Wills."

"Whatever" Willow said, moving into Spike's arms. She sighed, "Fighting doesn't help. Right now, we have enough chains to keep you controlled easily. Besides that, your demon is submissive to Spike. He should honestly be able to control you by that alone within reason. But, we aren't taking any chances. I've been through this before, and it isn't that bad. If you do get out of hand, we have the dart gun. It doesn't hurt, just a long peaceful sleep. Did I miss anything?"

Graham shook his head, "No. Sounds fine. Just remember not to get too close."

Willow laughed, "On that you don't have to worry. I told you, I've done this a few dozen times. I did date a werewolf for over a year."

"Don't remind me" Spike said, his tone amused as he nuzzled her neck.

"Quit that. We'll never get to that dinner you promised me."

"A big hamburger sounds great about now" Graham said, smiling apologetically at Willow for his outburst. He was just having so much trouble adjusting to it all. Thank god he had Spike and Willow. If he'd had to this alone, he didn't know what he would have done.

"Come on" Spike said, resigned. "Silly humans always having to eat regular like."

********************

Willow watched the wolf with a cautious eye. "I figured after Oz left that I would never have to wolf sit again. Goes to show what I know."

"He's doing better this time" Spike said, holding her in his arms. It had been a month since the first time Graham had changed under their supervision. He was still having a lot of trouble adjusting to his situation, but things were slowly working out.

"So much anger" Willow said softly. Over the past month, she had fallen in love with Graham. It was nothing compared to her feelings for Spike, but it was nice. She hated that he was having so many problems with it all. She had spoken to Giles about it telling him it had to do with Oz. She knew he suspected that she was lying, but he hadn't called her on it thankfully. He hadn't told her anything useful.

"He'll learn to deal with it." Spike said. "Beat up some demons...maybe kick the slayer's ass...it will work out, pet."

"It's just getting so hard to keep it all hidden. I mean, Buffy and the others don't even know I'm living with you. I love you Spike. I love Graham too in my own way. I hate having to hide it" she said, her green eyes looking at him to see if he understood.

"I know, luv. But, the damn slayer would stake me and they'd take Graham for research. Not a lot we can do about it, I'm afraid." Spike said, his eyes looking to the wolf. "Come on, get some sleep."

********************

Willow and Graham walked through the commons talking about the finals they had just taken. School was finally over for the year. Willow was thrilled. It had become the only place she saw Buffy or Riley and was glad to not have to see them for a few months. She let her head fall back against Graham's chest as his arm went around her shoulder.

"So, tonight we celebrate the end of my freshman year and the completion of your junior year" Willow said, smiling.

Graham smiled, "Yeah. Finally. No more curious looks from Riley and the guys. I am so thrilled about that."

"Bet you are, hon" Willow said. She felt someone pull her arm and looked in surprise at Buffy. "Buffy? What is it?"

"Since when did you and Graham get so chummy?" Buffy demanded.

"Would you let go of my arm?" Willow asked, pulling her arm away. "Since when did it become your business who I got chummy with?"

"Is he the reason you're ignoring us? He cuts all his friends off and you do too?"

Willow felt Graham stiffen behind her, heard the low growl of warning. He wasn't liking Buffy's treatment of her. She needed to get him out of there. "Buffy, drop it. Graham has nothing to do with our friendship, or lack thereof. That blame lays entirely with you and me and everything. This isn't Graham's fault. Now, leave me alone and get out of my way."

"What the hell happened to you?" Buffy asked, wondering what Willow was talking about. It wasn't her fault that Willow had gone nutty.

"I grew up. Bye Buffy" Willow said, moving past the blonde. She felt Graham turn to face Buffy as the girl tried again to reach for her.

"Leave her alone" Graham said, his voice low and laced with menace. He snarled at a surprised Buffy before moving Willow away from the blonde. Willow had a sudden realization that the slayer was not going to let the matter drop. Buffy never let things go and she definitely wouldn't resist Graham's threatening tone. She sighed as she leaned back against Graham, trying to forget Buffy and concentrate on the upcoming summer.

********************

"So, expect us sometime tomorrow. Thank you so much....this means a lot," Willow said into the phone. "See you soon. Bye."

"Well?" Spike asked, watching her with unreadable eyes.

Willow looked at him and smiled, "I love you. Are we sure about this?"

Graham nodded, watching her go into Spike's arms and kiss him. "Yes. If I stay here I might end up killing her for bothering you. I didn't like her tone......"

"Me either" Willow said.

"We could always just let him kill her" Spike suggested with a smile. He was rewarded by Willow smacking him. "Ok. Ok. Just an idea...."

"I rather like it. She bruised Willow" Graham added.

"Guys, are we all packed?" Willow asked, diverting their attention.

"Yep. Car is loaded and waiting. All we have to do is lock up and we're on our way." Spike said, checking the apartment again to make sure he didn't miss anything.

"Good. It should be a long drive, but with all three of us taking turns, we should make it tomorrow night." Willow said, moving to take Graham's hand. "Are we ready?"

"For anything, pet" Spike said, keeping his arm around her.

"So" Graham said walking to the car with them, "You think this Oz guy can help me adjust to everything?"

Willow nodded, "Yes. He's had longer to get use to it all. He said we can crash at his apartment until we get a place. He's suppose to get some real estate info for us in the Boston area. By next week, we should be settled into our new lives."

"Together" Graham said, sitting in the back seat.

"Always together" Willow promised before kissing him softly across the seat. She then turned to kiss Spike. "Always."



THE END