Angel / RPGFH / Spike in LA

Warning! The following is completely PWP and BWB - as in "Beta? What Beta?" It's being posted just for fun and is not to be taken as a serious fic.

Written by: TBQ and Mer

Spike arrived at the door of the Hyperion about two hours after sunset on Friday, juggling a bag, two bottles, and two bouquets. He knocked awkwardly, waited a few minutes, shifted his burdens to one arm and knocked again, louder. After a few minutes more Angel opened the door, wearing a white wifebeater, a black shirt open over it, and black pants. Angel cracked the door open, leaned on it a little bit, and took a look at Spike, wearing his favorite black jeans and t-shirt, with a red silk shirt over it and the ubiquitous leather duster over that.

"What?" Angel asked. "You're waiting for an invitation?"

"Something like that. Hate it when people barge into my place." Spike looked at him inquiringly as if to say, so, do I have one?

Angel gave a noncommittal shrug, turned and walked back into the hotel. Spike followed.

"Put your stuff anywhere." Angel said.

Spike dropped his bag in a corner. "These are for you." Spike offered one bouquet and one bottle.

Angel took both and looked at the flowers quizzically. "Um thanks." He took a look at the bottle to make sure it was the right kind, and confirming that it was, said, "Good." He put the bottle of scotch down on the counter in the hotel lobby, picked up a vase, dumped out whatever was in it, stuck the combination of pink tulips, dahlias, and rosemary in it, and went to the bathroom to get water, then put it down somewhere.

Spike added, "And these are for Wesley. Can I put them in the fridge?"

"Um, yeah." He gestured. "There's one over there," pointing to the fridge behind the counter top, "or if you need a bigger one, there's..." he turned and looked quizzically over his shoulder. "There's ... a kitchen?"

Spike nodded. "Thanks". He went behind the counter and, after two false starts, managed to get the flowers into the fridge without being crushed against Angel's personal blood bank or the gadget's door.

"There's blood in there. Help yourself." Angel said.

"Thanks." Spike repeated, grabbing a bottle. "Want one?"

"Nah, I'm good." Angel answered. Spike closed the fridge, cracked open the bottle, and took a drink, not bothering to use the nearby microwave to heat it first. "So..."

Angel was on the other side of the counter, arms folded on it. "Yeah."

Spike sighed. "Want that shoulder rub?"

Angel gave something akin to a smile. "Nah. I mean not yet. But thanks."

Spike gave him back the almost-smile, with a little more wry warmth. "Anytime."

Angel motioned for Spike to drink up. "Any problems getting here?"

Spike obediently took a long pull at the blood, then shrugged. "Not really. A little traffic on the 405."

Angel gave Spike a look that indicated that was not the answer he'd expected. "Na - um, I meant, at home."

Spike shrugged again. "A little. Buffy assumed I'd patrol for her while she was away. Fortunately Giles didn't care for the idea above half, and the whelp stepped in to volunteer instead. Who'd have thought I'd ever be grateful to Xander?"

Angel gave a worried frown and made a you and me gesture. "This gonna be okay?"

Spike gave Angel a puzzled look back. "Um, yeah, I thought so? Didn't we talk about this?"

Angel smiled patiently. "Will it be okay that you're not patrolling?"

The puzzled frown cleared from Spike's brow. "Oh. Yeah. Nasties can survive without me for a couple of days. Slayer knows I'm off duty, and its been pretty quiet lately. All the beasties are on summer vacation too."

"Oh, okay." Angel replied. "How long can you stay?"

"I've got a couple've days."

Angel nodded, taking that in. "Okay." Angel said. He motioned towards the trash bin behind the counter, then turned and made his way toward the lobby. "Feel free to throw that out when you're finished."

Spike worried that he had just let himself in for a weekend of excruciating laboured conversation. Oh, well. It was probably helping him atone for some shit or other. He chugged the rest of the blood and tossed the empty into the container indicated before following Angel into the lobby.

Angel headed towards the ottoman and took a seat. "Wes is minding the store right now. He's gonna touch base with us tomorrow."

Spike, undecided as to whether to sit in another chair or on the floor near Angel, instead nodded and, stalling for time, pulled out a pack of cigarettes from his shirt pocket. "Mind?"

Angel shrugged. "Nah."

Spike, standing in front of Angel, offered him the pack, "Want one?"

Angel appeared to consider it. "Maybe later."

Spike nodded again, took his own and lit it. "How is he?"

Angel looked a little surprised. "He's fine." Angel shrugged. "A little nervous, I think."

Spike raised an inquiring eyebrow. "About... this?"

"Us?" Angel shrugged. "Nah. Just, uh, you know. The whole thing with him, you, you and him *again*, think he's not sure what to make of it."

"Not sure I do know, luv. Didn't mean to make him nervous."

Angel waved it off. "He'll be fine. You know Wes and sex."

Spike still looked mildly confused, but decided to accept this, or at least wait to ask one or the other of them in a more forthcoming moment. "More or less."

"He'll be fine," Angel said again, standing, he reached out and brushed a finger along Spike's neck. "Not sure about you, though."

Spike leaned his head back, exposing his throat as he followed Angel's touch. "Why wouldn't I be?"

Angel wrapped his hand around the back of Spike's neck, nice and hard. Angel spoke about six inches from Spike's ear. "I dunno. Why do ya think?"

Spike purred and turned his head slightly to meet Angel's eyes. "Missed you."

Angel shifted his hand slightly so Spike could feel Angel's nails pressing lightly into his skin. The faintest look of approval appeared in his eyes. "Did ya now?"

"Yes." Spike leaned back slightly into Angel's hand.

Angel increased the pressure substantially, and Spike breathed in deeply and repeated "yes..."

Angel leaned in just a little bit, like he was catching the scent of Spike. "You fed before you came, didn't ya?"

Spike gathered his scattered wits. "Y-yes. Before I left." There was a definite look of approval in Angel's eyes this time. "Good boy."

Spike swallowed hard and gave a soft, pleased murmur.

With his free hand, Angel lightly tapped Spike's hand where he still held his forgotten cigarette. "Gonna finish that?"

"No," Spike answered.

"Sure?" Angel asked, but before Spike could respond, he slid his hand over Spike's, lifting it to his own mouth to take a puff himself.

Spike turned his head slightly to watch as Angel took a drag. "All yours." Spike replied, and gently brushed Angel's cheek with his thumb.

Angel seemed to acknowledge this as he finished inhaling the cigarette smoke. He tilted his head to indicate that Spike should turn toward him and, when he'd obeyed, blew the stream of smoke into Spike's mouth. "Certainly are."

Spike sucked in the mouthful of smoke and stood staring at Angel's lips, barely an inch from his own.

Angel took the cigarette out of Spike's hand. He slid his other hand down and around Spike's neck to his chest and pushed Spike back a couple of steps until his back was against a wall. His grip on Spike's chest was firm. Angel took an absent-minded drag on the cigarette as he studied Spike's face, and let the smoke out slowly. There was a grin on Angel's face. "Gotta lot of plans for you boy."

Spike exhaled the remains of the smoke a little shakily. "Glad to hear it. Anything I should know?"

"No," Angel said, and put the cigarette to Spike's lips so he could take a puff. "Just wondering where to start." Angel leaned in briefly to suck the smoke right out of Spike's mouth.

Spike's eyes widened slightly and he momentarily forgot how to talk. Instead he settled for bringing a hand up to rest on Angel's upper arm, feeling the hard, defined shape of Angel's biceps through the cotton shirt.

"I mean," Angel said, blowing the smoke out and gesturing with the cigarette as he spoke, "There's that gratitude thing, you needing to beg forgiveness, me beating the shit out of you, and, you know, other stuff. Lotta choices."

During Angel's list, a slow grin spread across Spike's face, getting wider and wider. "I'm fine for all of the above."

"I know ya are." Angel said. He held the last end of the cigarette half an inch from Spike's lips. "Want it?"

Spike's lips parted. "Yes..." he said. Angel put the cigarette to Spike's mouth and Spike took one deep final drag, then exhaled slowly. "Thank you," he said.

"You're welcome." Angel said. He clenched the hand that still held Spike in place, bunching up the black T-shirt until the top of Spike's chest was exposed, then put the cigarette out on Spike's skin.

Spike eyes melted for a moment. Angel still had it. Then the pain hit, and right on its heels a rush so intense he had to fight down a momentary desire to giggle. He looked up and met Angel's eyes. "Thank you," he repeated.

Angel tossed the cigarette away into a nearby ashtray. He stepped away so he was no longer touching Spike. "You really need a new t-shirt."

Spike blinked. Repeatedly. "Okay." Spike paused. "I'll... get one soon?"

Angel shrugged, sitting back down on the ottoman. "Whatever. You know, just, kinda old."

Spike, blinking even more, headed over to near Angel and sat on the floor at his feet. "Well, yeah. Income source pretty well dried up when the fresh blood did. Haven't done a lot of shopping since."

"Ya might want to consider it," Angel added very nonchalantly. Angel sat back and looked at Spike expectantly.

Spike looked back at Angel blankly. "I think I missed my cue, luv. What do you want me to do?"

Angel sat forward, resting his forearms on his thighs and meeting Spike's eyes. "Whadda ya want?"

Again, Spike blinked. Hadn't they covered this? He wanted Angel. He wanted to do whatever Angel wanted. Unfortunately, what Angel wanted right now was an answer. Spike shook his head slightly, forcing himself to focus, and said the first thing that came to what was left of his mind. "Hurt me. Please."

"Why?" Angel asked, still meeting Spike's eyes.

Spike spread his hands helplessly as he groped for the words to explain why water was wet. "Because... you might enjoy it? I sure as hell would. I need it. I need you."

The corner of Angel's mouth quirked in a challenging smile. "Do ya?"

Spike's lips twitched involuntarily in response. Angel wasn't gonna make this easy. "Yes. Angel." He said intensely. "More than... blood, cigarettes, straight lines. Fuck, more than anything."

Angel twitched his eyebrow slightly, and suddenly Spike felt that Angel was much closer to him although the older vampire didn't appear to have moved. "Really?" Angel said levelly.

"Bloody hell, Angel, yes. Really. *Please.*" Automatically, Spike rose to his knees.

Angel moved in closer. "Please?"

Spike licked his lips. "Please. Angel. I'm begging you. I'll do whatever you want."

"Good boy," Angel whispered, as he leaned in and finally kissed him.

Spike shivered and opened his lips, leaning closer to offer Angel his mouth. He raised a hand to grasp Angel's shoulder and then, afraid to push his luck, let it fall again.

Angel deepened the kiss and again took a hold of Spike's shirt possessively. Spike moaned softly against Angel's mouth and this time got up the courage to bring his hands up to cling to Angel's muscled upper arms.

Still holding Spike's shirt, Angel broke the kiss and, when Spike looked at him, there was a hint of yellow in his eyes. "Good boy," Angel repeated.

Spike instinctively responded, stretching his neck to subtly offer his throat, but keeping his eyes locked with Angel's. "Damn, you're beautiful."

"Thanks." Angel said. A slight smile touched his lips before he stood and began to walk upstairs, still holding onto Spike's shirt.

Spike scrambled to his feet and followed, stumbling slightly as it took a second to remember how to walk. Angel simply kept walking, leading Spike into his bedroom, where he casually whipped Spike around in front of him, throwing him at random, and closed the door.

Spike fell hard and sprawled across the floor, barely catching himself before his face slammed into a table. Angel again grasped Spike by the back of the neck and lifted him up and slammed him against a nearby wall, hitting first with hands and chest like he was about to be strip searched.

Angel leaned a little on the wall next to Spike, still gripping his neck, and said, "Gee, I'm sorry, did that hurt?"

Spike panted slightly. "No."

"Oh?" Angel inquired, now squeezing almost hard enough to break Spike's neck. "How 'bout now?"

"Yes," Spike whispered.

"Good to know." Angel said, and took the hand that was holding Spike and tossed him down on the floor again. "'Cause, ya know," Angel shrugged, watching as Spike started to get to his hands and knees and casually forcing Spike back down on his face with his foot, "It's been a while."

Angel removed his foot and Spike stayed prone and motionless as he looked up at Angel. Angel kicked Spike in the side, hard enough to roll him over. Spike groaned softly. "Things have changed. You're older, I'm older," Angel kicked him again, this time in the stomach, and then squatted down to look Spike in the face, "So hard to know what's gonna work, you know?"

"This... works." said Spike as he doubled over to clutch his stomach.

"Good to know." Angel said, patting Spike on the head, "'cause you say you want me to hurt you. And hey, I'm all for hurting you, but its just - " Angel took a light grip on Spike's hair and looked down at him again, "It's a lot more complicated now."

Spike leaned into Angel's hand. "Why?" he asked, confused. Angel certainly seemed to be doing okay with the whole concept as far as he could tell.

Angel smiled. He stroked Spike's hair. "Well, you know, I've got a soul..." Angel paused, considering his words, "I - you're just gonna have to do certain things for me, Spike."

"What? Anything." said Spike.

Angel looked dubious. "Are ya sure?" he asked, letting go of Spike. "'Cause ya know, I - I don't think you're gonna like it. In fact," he said, standing, "Nah, forget it."

"Wait! What? Angel! I'm sure. I don't care if I like it. Tell me. Please. What do you want?" Spike knew Angel was jerking his chain, but he was beyond caring.

"Nah," Angel said again, waving his hand. "It's not your thing."

Spike tried again to get to his knees. "If you want it, it's my thing. Please."

Angel bent down, meeting his eyes. "Dunno, boyo, do you *really* want to please me?"

Spike looked up at him. "Yes, Angel, just tell me how to please you. I promise, I'll do it."

"Really?" Angel bent at the knees, tracing a finger down Spike's body but widely avoiding any actual contact with Spike's painfully hard cock. "'Cause you don't look ready to please me," he said.

Spike threw off his open silk shirt, grasped the hem of his t-shirt and pulled it over his head, then paused with his hands on the buttons of his jeans and looked at Angel for confirmation.

Angel ran his fingers up Spike's other leg, again avoiding his crotch altogether, and said, "It's a start."

Spike unbuttoned his jeans and slid them down over his hips to form a puddle around his knees, freeing his erect cock.

"It's alright," Angel said, shrugging. "But, uh, I still think you could show me."

"How can I show you, luv? Please." Spike nearly whimpered.

Angel ran his fingernails lightly down Spike's chest, one of them scraping over the healing burn from the cigarette. "Ah, come on now boy, I think you know," he said in a lilting voice.

Well that was no help. Try to guess, then. Spike crawled a few inches forward to press his face into Angel's crotch, hoping to get his mouth on Angel's cock.

Angel put his hand on Spike's head to stop him. "Uh-uh," he said shaking his finger, and then pointing it downward at Spike's crotch. Spike sighed in relief and comprehension and reached down to begin stroking his own erection, which was already harder than he could ever remember. Fuck, he was close already. Determinedly Spike began recalling sitting in traffic. Boring speeches by Giles.

Angel smiled and stroked Spike's cheek. "Good boy." Spike shuddered. Talking to Darla. Xander's basement.

Angel got real close to Spike, lips only about a half inch from Spike's. "You're not gonna come on me, are ya, boy?"

"No - Angel - please -" Spike was dizzy with the scent of him. He unconsciously moved to offer himself for a kiss, but Angel kept just out of reach. "Please?" Angel asked.

"Please. Angel." Spike wasn't sure if he was begging to be allowed to come or to be allowed to stop so he wouldn't. Or just for the touch of those lips, so close to his own.

"'K." He grabbed Spike's hand by the wrist and pulled it away, yanking him to his feet and twisting Spike's arm behind him. Angel shoved Spike aside. "Take your clothes off, boy."

Spike quickly bent to untie his Doc Martins, then pulled then off, stepped out of his jeans and kicked them aside.

Meanwhile, Angel had taken off his shirt, leaving just the wifebeater, and gone over to a bedside table and was opening a drawer. But before Spike could turn to face him, Angel was behind Spike, snapping a blindfold over his eyes.

Angel reached around to run a hand down Spike's chest. In Spike's ear Angel whispered, "Do anything for me, boy?"

"Anything. Anything at all." Spike babbled back.

Angel's lips brushed so lightly against Spike's ear that he wondered if he'd imagined it. "Good," Angel said. A single finger tilted his chin up, and Spike realized Angel meant for him to follow.

Just with that single touch, Angel led Spike a few dozen steps and over a threshold, then leaned into Spike's face, close enough for their cocks to brush, "Payin' attention to me, lad?"

Spike drew in a breath sharply at the unexpected contact. "Yes, Angel."

Spike could feel Angel's lips all but touching his own. "Yes...?"

"Yes, da", he answered, tilting his face up slightly and hoping Angel's lips would come down on his.

"Good boy", Angel said. He cupped Spike's face in both of his hands and gave him a soft kiss.

Spike's world stopped for a long moment as he leaned into the kiss.

Angel allowed it to linger and then slowly pulled away, slowly circling around Spike and keeping his hands in contact with Spike's face, throat and chest until Angel was standing directly behind him, his chest pressed against Spike's back and his erection nestled up against his ass. Spike shivered.

Angel ran both of his hands down from Spike's shoulders to his hands, and said, "Give me your hand, boy." Spike wordlessly offered him his right hand.

Angel slid his left hand around Spike's chest, holding him firmly against his own. His right hand covered Spike's, manipulating its movement like a marionette. "Good boy", he said. Angel brought Spike's hand back to touch his own cheek, and traced downwards to Angel's mouth, where he lightly bit the tip of one of Spike's fingers. "Good boy", Angel said again. Spike leaned back into Angel's embrace and moaned softly.

"Like that, huh?" Angel asked, guiding Spike's hand down to caress his ribs and stomach.

"Yes, da. Oh yes." said Spike, feeling his own fingers' touch as tantalizing as if they were a stranger's. Angel's lips hovered near Spike's ear and neck. "Good boy" he repeated, as he continued to lead Spike's hand to stroke his abdomen. Spike's hips bucked slightly as he sucked in a breath.

"Good," Angel purred, widening his focus to stroke Spike's legs as well as his stomach, but still coyly avoiding the cock. Spike's hips bucked against Angel convulsively. He could feel himself on the edge of coming again, and bit his lip.

"That's it," Angel said encouragingly. His left hand started toying with Spike's nipple. He continued to guide Spike's hand to tease him further, until Spike moaned louder and began a rocking and thrusting rhythm with his hips. Angel moved Spike's hand out and away from his body, flexing it in the air. "Ready?" he asked.

Spike had no idea what Angel meant, and didn't care. "Yes" he breathed.

Angel guided Spike's right hand out to grasp something warm. His hand clamped down hard around it and the chip went off in his brain, just as he felt Angel's fangs penetrate his neck, and Angel began to drink.

The pain exploded in Spike's head as pleasure spread out from his neck in waves. His knees weakened, then buckled, as Angel's arm held him upright. He could feel the pulse from the creature in his hand in time with Angel's swallows. "Yes - da - oh -" he moaned, and then degenerated into sounds that no longer resembled words at all.

Angel's right hand released Spike's, which promptly dropped the creature, and his right arm came up around Spike's chest and shoulder. Angel withdrew from Spike's neck and licked at the wound. His left slid down to encircle Spike's cock. "Come for me, boy" he said, as his hand began to stroke Spike's hard cock. Practically before Angel's hand touched Spike, and certainly before it moved, Spike came with an inarticulate cry and a series of whole body shuddering jerks, buttressed by Angel's strong and steady grasp.

Angel continued to lick Spike's neck and held Spike tight, supporting him until the shuddering stopped. Once it did, Angel removed Spike's blindfold, steered him towards a bed and guided him to lie down. Angel stretched out beside Spike and stroked his chest gently, waiting until the aftermath of the chip wore off. As soon as Spike could clear his brain enough to speak, though the pain still throbbed behind his eyes, he managed to turn his head on the pillow to look at Angel. "I love you." he said.

Angel shrugged, moving his hands up to rub Spike's forehead. "It's nothin'."

Spike gingerly rolled over on his side to gently brush his hand from Angel's forehead down his cheek. "It's everything," he replied softly.

Angel smiled. "Well, okay."

"You're a fucking genius, you know that, right?" added Spike, lazily tracing his fingers down Angel's arm.

Angel lay back, propping his head on his hands. "Genius? Ya think?" he asked.

Spike curled up on Angel's chest. "Intermittently," he answered. He lay still for a moment, snuggling up to Angel, then lifted his head to meet Angel's eyes. "So how can I ever thank you?"

A smile played about on Angel's lips as he looked back. "Don't have to."

"Want to," insisted Spike stubbornly, dropping a trail of tiny kisses down Angel's chest and stomach.

Angel shifted, allowing Spike better access. "Up to you," he said.

"Any chance of getting you out of these clothes, luv?" Spike inquired plaintively.

Angel looked at Spike appraisingly. "I'd say pretty good."

Spike grinned even more broadly, if that were possible, and slipped his hands up under Angel's wifebeater, stroking his chest and sliding it upward until he could lift it over Angel's head. He bent his head and began to lick a slow spiral in towards Angel's nipple, finally sucking and gently nibbling on his nipple. His hand slid downward to caress Angel's cock through his pants.

Gently tracing its stiffening outlines through the fabric, Spike slid downward to bury his face in Angel's crotch and inhale the scent of him. He reached to unbutton Angel's pants and unzipped his fly, meaning to slide the pants down and off of Angel's muscled thighs, but found himself confronted with Angel's cock and decided why wait?

Angel propped his head up higher to get a better view of Spike's actions over his own broad chest. "Seem to recall you were pretty good at that." he observed.

"Still not used to getting compliments from you," Spike answered, smiling, "but I'll try to live up to your expectations." He lowered his head to take the tip of Angel's cock in his mouth.

"Told ya - things have changed." Angel stretched back and raised his hips. Spike moaned softly and eagerly took Angel's erection deeper into his mouth, swirling his tongue gently across the sensitive spot where the shaft met the head and sucking in air around it. He sucked harder, then let Angel's cock slide from his mouth reluctantly and began to lick up and down the length of the shaft, nipping lightly. His fingers began to brush Angel's balls through the fabric.

Angel shifted his hips again to make sure Spike had access and continued watching him, adding "Not bad." Spike's gaze flicked up briefly, acknowledging the comment, and slid Angel's pants down to mid-thigh, stroking Angel's cock with his fingers while he took one of Angel's balls into his mouth, and then the other, again encircling them gently with his tongue. Angel freed one hand from behind his head and began stroking Spike's hair.

Spike stroked Angel's cock against his own cheek and again slipped it between his parted lips, this time stretching his neck to take the full length of Angel into his throat. He purred softly. Angel again shifted his hips to accommodate and began tangling a hand in Spike's hair and encouraging him. Spike swallowed and told hold of Angel's hips, slowly pulling his head back until the head of Angel's cock just brushed his lips and just as slowly sliding it back in to the hilt. Spike continued this for quite some time, purring gently.

Eventually Spike increased the suction slightly, bobbing his head faster and gripping Angel's hips a little harder. "That's it," said Angel, and again his hand in Spike's hair made encouraging motions. Spike began to move harder and faster, moaning softly as Angel's cock hit the back of his throat over and over. Angel started to move his hips to thrust into Spike's mouth at a slow, easy rhythm, using his hand in Spike's hair to indicate that Spike should still maintain his own more vigorous pace.

Spike smiled as well as he could around Angel's cock, enthusiastically continuing his ministrations. Angel's hand tightened in Spike's hair, reminding him who was in charge, and Angel said, "Wanna make me come, boy?"

Spike shivered and looked up at Angel. "Yes, da. Please."

Angel looked down in approval. "Good," Angel said, moving Spike's head down so he could put his mouth on Angel's cock again. "Go ahead."

Spike's cock jumped as he again lowered his head and stretched his lips wide around Angel's cock, taking him deep in his throat and setting a more insistent pace. Angel grasped the back of Spike's head firmly and took charge, fucking Spike's mouth. Spike's moan was muffled by Angel's cock and his own hips began to grind into the bed.

Angel gave Spike's hair a corrective tug. "Didn't say please yourself, boy."

Spike's hips stopped dead and he managed to gasp "sorry" in the brief moment that his mouth was empty.

"I'll punish ya later." said Angel. He again positioned Spike's head, with the implication of one correcting a bad dog or child. "Make *me* come."

Spike gave a happy sigh and redoubled his efforts.

"You're out of practice." Angel reprimanded him, "yer gonna have to do better."

"Yes, da," Spike got out, shivering again.

Angel gripped Spike's hair tightly, preventing him from moving back down to take Angel's cock in his mouth. Spike whimpered in frustration. "I mean, you do want me to come, doncha boy?"

"Yes, da..." Spike repeated, straining to reach Angel's cock. Angel pulled Spike up towards him, and the lilt in his voice grew even more pronounced. "I mean, I'm starting t' think ya might not."

Spike writhed in need. "Da ... please... more than anything," he pleaded.

Angel's hand twisted tight and painfully in Spike's hair, holding his head at an uncomfortable angle. His lips were inches from Spike's. "Anything?" he asked.

Spike eyes were hazy and his lips were parted. He gazed back at Angel. "Anything .. da... please."

Angel's eyes flashed yellow and he growled "don't come till I do." The hand gripping Spike's head rolled him over onto his back and Angel landed on top of him, using his free hand to push Spike's leg up, making way for Angel's cock to thrust inside of him, at the same time that Angel shifted to vamp face. The death grip on Spike's hair kept his head wrenched sideways, and Angel bent to bite deeply into the other side of Spike's neck.

Spike groaned and arched his neck and hips both up to welcome Angel in. Angel continued to drink as he thrust into Spike for a few moments. Spike growled deep in his throat and pushed back to meet him as well as he could until Angel came, shooting into Spike, his teeth tightening in Spike's throat. Angel rode out the pleasures of his own orgasm and made sure his hips kept jerking until Spike came all over Angel's chest a few seconds later. Angel withdrew his teeth and his vamp face melted away. Still deep inside Spike, Angel released his grip on Spike's hair and pulled back his face enough that he could look down at Spike. Spike gave a huge smile, whispered "thank you", and reached up to kiss Angel.

Angel allowed Spike to kiss him for a moment, then slowly pulled himself out. Spike whimpered a little in disappointment. Angel slowly moved up until his chest was over Spike's face. "Clean that up," Angel commanded, and Spike immediately began to lick his own come from Angel's muscled chest as thoroughly as possible. When Angel's chest was clean he leaned back against the pillows, pulling his pants back up and fastening them. He propped his head up on one hand and lay there comfortably, looking at Spike.

Spike gazed at Angel happily. "You'll be the death of me yet, luv. Not that I mind. Hey, was that what you were trying to do with Darla?"

Angel broke out in surprised laughter which quieted down into chortles. "Yeah, there you go."

Spike propped himself up on his own elbow, his hand playing about Angel's chest. "Getcha anything, luv?" he offered. Angel gave a little quirk of a smile. "Nah, but thanks." He made a little motion towards Spike's forehead. "How you doing?"

Spike blinked. Oh, right, the chip. *Was* he still in pain? Not that it mattered. Quick check - no, he was fine by now. "Never better." Spike replied.

"Good." Angel nodded. "Wanted to be sure."

Spike smiled again. "Thanks."

Angel gave a nonchalant shrug. "Glad that worked out then."

Spike's smile widened into a grin. "You're adorable."

Angel gave a puzzled frown. "Okay?"

Spike reached out a hand to smooth Angel's forehead. "Just trust me."

Angel moved slightly to accept Spike's caress as he took that in thoughtfully, then said, "Okay, now this is weird."

Spike gave a surprised chuckle. "Now?" he asked.

"Yeah," Angel said, "motioning to the both of them, "don't you think this is weird?"

Spike cocked his head slightly. "Yeah, luv, I do. Nice, but weird. It's just that I thought we passed the now entering weird sign a while ago."

Angel appeared to consider that. "Nah," he said, mulling it over, "Just this."

It was Spike's turn to frown in puzzlement. "Pretty sure some of that was new," he said.

"Well yeah," Angel said, shrugging, "but it wasn't weird."

Spike thought that over. "Okay," he conceded, "then why is this weird?"

"Well, you know," Angel said, "we've never done this before. The talking thing."

Spike stopped short for a minute, then decided that email, however longwinded, probably didn't count. "Guess we haven't." he agreed. "Do you mind? 'Cause I kinda like it."

Angel seemed surprised to be asked that. "No," he said. "It's alright." he paused, then added, "don't mind it either."

"You know why we never did, luv? In the old days we were too busy getting rid of the bodies." Spike said, adding wistfully, "Those were good times."

"No," Angel said. "You were too busy getting rid of the bodies. That was your job. When you remembered to do it."

Spike gave a small, wry smile. "Beats mowing the lawn." he said.

"Not that you did that either."

"Okay, da," Spike said, laughing a little. "You gonna dock my allowance? Tell me I'm grounded?" More seriously he added, "I'm here now. You got chores you want me to do, just say the word."

Angel grinned, lightly ruffling Spike's hair as he sat up, and began looking for his shirt. "Maybe later."

Spike retrieved the wifebeater from where it had fallen behind the pillows and handed it to him.

Angel accepted it from him and put it back on. "So now what?" Angel asked.

Spike looked lost for a moment. He shrugged. "I still owe you a shoulder rub. Or there's a bottle of scotch downstairs we could crack open." He paused. "More sex? More talking? I don't know, luv, usually at this time of night I'm shoving stakes into things and tripping over headstones. What do you do when I'm not here?"

Angel grinned as he stood up, and crossed to the other side of the room, picking up, then putting aside the cage that had held whatever it was he'd made Spike grab. "Sleep with Wesley," he answered.

Spike grinned back. "Also a good option," he allowed. "Is it too late to call him?"

Angel smiled. "Nah," he said. "He nodded in the direction of the doorway. "Come on, get your pants on, we'll go downstairs and crack open the scotch while I do."

Spike went into the other room to don his jeans and boots, gathered up his shirts, threw them over one shoulder and followed Angel down the stairs.

Angel crossed over to the phone on the counter. "You know that's new," Angel said, making a vague motion in Spike's direction as he picked up the phone and began dialing.

Spike took a bewildered inventory of his outfit, which was entirely composed of old favorites, and followed it up with a glance around his surroundings for anything obviously new or likely to have attracted Angel's wandering attention. Coming up blank, he raised an inquiring eyebrow at Angel. "What is?" he asked succinctly.

"Your hair," Angel said, as he waited for Wesley to pick up.

Spike gave Angel another, even more puzzled look. "Fifty years now, give or take," he replied. "I know you were a bit preoccupied the last time we met, but..."

"Yeah, I know," Angel said, "just the last time I fucked ya. It was different. I like it."

Spike blushed, surprising himself, and tried to formulate some kind, any kind, of coherent reply.

Before he could, though, Wesley had obviously picked up the phone, because Angel purred into it, "Hey sexy." Angel paused for Wesley's reply. Angel grinned and shook his head. "No, I'm not."

Fresh expressions of puzzlement chased each other across Spike's face. Catching Spike's look, Angel explained, "He thinks I'm drunk."

Spike walked over to Angel. "Not yet, pet." he said, hoping the phone would pick up his voice.

Angel listened to Wesley's reply and then told Spike, "He says hi." To Wesley Angel said, "So we were wondering if you wanted to come over." Angel motioned to Spike, "There's glasses over there."

Spike walked in the direction indicated and found three glasses, bringing them over to a table near the ottoman and going back to the counter to open the scotch. To the phone, Angel said, "What? No. Hang on." He covered the phone and said to Spike, "You brought another bottle for Wesley right?"

Spike nodded. "Of course."

"That's what I thought," Angel said, and went back to the phone. "No, Wes, we're not drinking your scotch."

Spike chuckled softly.

Angel rolled his eyes in a gesture of camaraderie to Spike. "Honestly." To Wesley, he said, "Look, just get over here and then you can be drinking mine. The scotch Wes."

Spike interjected. "To start with, anyway."

Angel flashed a grin in Spike's direction and said into the phone, "Okay. Nah. Just get here. Alright. See ya." Angel hung up.

Spike poured a glass of Scotch and brought it to Angel. "Ice?" he asked.

"Nah," Angel said, taking it and helping himself to a sip. "He'll be here in a few minutes."

"Think I should get out his flowers?" Spike asked, a little bit nervously.

Angel smiled at him patiently. "Up to you."

Spike dithered a minute and eventually decided on yes, if only to give him something to do with his hands. But first... "Have I got time for a cigarette?" he asked.

Angel glanced at the clock. "Yeah, I'd say so."

Spike dug the pack out of the pocket of his red shirt and again offered it to Angel first. Angel shook his head, declining, and Spike lit the cigarette, taking a long grateful drag before tossing the pack on the table and the pair of shirts over the back of a chair.

Angel sat down in one of the chairs and made himself comfortable. Ho looked over at Spike. "Think you're up for more?"

Spike exhaled the smoke slowly. "Always," he said simply.

Angel grinned. "Didn't think it would be a problem. We're gonna go easy on Wes, though, okay?"

Spike nodded seriously. "Of course."

"Good," Angel said. "I'm not saying you can't do the other stuff, just tonight we're gonna spoil him a little."

Spike grinned. "Twist my arm."

He stubbed out the cigarette and went to collect Wesley's flowers from the fridge and the second bottle of scotch.

The roar of a motorcycle sounded outside, and Angel got up and headed over to wait by the door. Wesley came in, wearing grey slacks and a grey sweater, his black leather jacket, and glasses, and Angel immediately pulled him into a hug and kissed him. Spike watched appreciatively. Finally Angel broke off, smiled at Wes, and said "Hey."

Wesley smiled back and said, "Hello Angel."

Angel gave him another brief kiss, put his arm around Wesley and led him into the lobby. "You remember Spike, right?" he said.

Spike shot Angel a look. Wesley rolled his eyes, and Spike grinned. Wesley stepped forward and held his hand out to Spike to shake.

Spike took the offered hand and raised it to his lips, giving it a slow and deliberate kiss. "Hello pet," he said.

Wesley blinked, taken a bit aback, but smiled. "Er...are you... was the trip alright?"

Angel gave Wesley a familiar look. "We covered that."

Spike made amused eye contact with Angel, but answered "Fine" anyway. He paused. "These are for you," he added, handing Wesley the bouquet of yellow roses, heather, and ferns.

"Oh! Thank you," Wesley said, accepting the flowers, and examined them with interest, smiling as an idea occurred to him and asking Spike "Did you... uh.. no never mind. I'll just put these in some water."

Spike intercepted the gesture. "Let me do that. What were you asking?"

Angel sat down in a chair and said, "Help yourself to one of the vases," and as Spike glanced in his direction, gave him a subtle look of approval. Spike picked up a vase from a nearby table and headed over to fill it with water.

"Never mind," Wesley said, taking his coat off and laying it over a nearby chair. "It isn't important."

Angel reached out, motioning for Wesley to come stand by him, and Wesley went to him, and Angel rested his hand on Wesley's hip. "Tell me." Angel said.

"Er.. it's just.." Wesley said to Angel, then looked up and over his shoulder to include Spike, "Were you aware that the flowers and plants you've chosen were actually known to have ... a-a-particular meaning. That is to say symbolism. Which actually dates back to your time, Spike."

Spike finished putting the flowers into the vase and deposited them back on the table, walking over to Wesley. "Yeah, pet, I know. S'why I picked them. Thought they suited you. Bit of a trick to find ones that say what you want and still look decent, though."

"Oh!" Wesley said. He gestured to the flowers. "So you knew."

Spike smiled indulgently. "Yes, pet." he repeated.

Hand still on Wesley's hip, Angel pulled him a little closer. "So what do they mean?"

"Well," Wesley said, pointing each of the plants out in his bouquet, "The - the yellow roses are for friendship, the heather would indicate - er - admiration, or that one's wishes had come true." A slight blush touched Wesley's cheeks as his eyes flickered in Spike's direction. "And - and the ferns would mean fascination, or sincerity."

"Really?" Angel asked, shooting a grin in Spike's direction. "What do mine mean?"

"Those are yours?" Wesley asked, indicating the other vase. He leaned forward to study them. "Er - rosemary for remembrance, pink tulips for imagination, and the - the dahlias would indicate good taste."

Now Angel shot an almost feline grin in Spike's direction. "Good taste, huh?"

Spike blushed a bit, and then raised his chin defiantly. "Yeah? So? You picked Wesley, luv. Couldn't ask for better taste than that."

Angel acknowledged this. "Good point," Angel said, as he looked at Wes appreciatively, then slid his finger into one of Wesley's belt loops and pulled him into his lap. Before Wesley could make any sound of protest, Angel again kissed him lightly. "Couldn't have picked better."

Wesley gave Angel a shy smile. "Angel..." he said, in a tone that indicated they had company.

"Don't mind me, pet. Just enjoyin' the view. Can I bring you a drink, though?" Spike smiled at the couple.

Wesley blushed and shifted in Angel's lap. "Er .. yes, thank you."

Spike stood and poured Wesley a glass of scotch. He turned back to Wesley. "Ice?"

"Yes, please," said Wesley, smiling.

Spike headed behind the counter to the fridge to fetch it, then brought the finished drink back to Wesley. He looked at Angel over Wesley's head. "Want anything else?" he asked.

"Nah, I'm good," Angel said, motioning for Spike to sit down.

Wesley said "Thanks," took a sip, and nodded with approval. Wesley moved as though to get up, but Angel's hand on his hip made it clear that he wasn't going anywhere. Wesley gave Angel a quizzical look. To Spike, he said, "Er... that was very kind of you. The flowers I mean."

Spike shrugged a bit shyly and looked away, then back. "It's nothing."

Wesley smiled. "No really... I actually enjoy that sort of thing. The history, I mean. Did Angel tell you?"

"Tell me what?" asked Spike, confused. Angel had told him a lot of things, but none of them seemed to relate to flowers especially. Or history.

"Wes is into botany," Angel explained. He reached out, covered Wes's hand with his own so he could take a sip of his scotch. Spike's memory flashed back to the same lobby a few hours earlier, and he gave a little inadvertent shiver. Wesley looked at Angel quizzically. Angel looked back and Wesley and said, "It's one of his many talents."

"I'm sure it is." Spike smiled at Wesley.

Angel and Wesley continued to look at each other. Angel pointed at Wesley's scotch. "Do ya mind?" he asked. Wesley, slightly confused, shook his head no, as if to say he had no idea what Angel wanted with the scotch but whatever it was, he was fine with it. Spike knew the feeling.

Angel caught Spike's eye briefly and made a subtle hand gesture to indicate that Spike should keep talking to Wesley. Unfortunately, Spike had pretty well exhausted his knowledge of botany, and Angel wasn't being much help.

Spike desperately wanted a cigarette. How strict was this no smoking around Wesley rule? Spike held up the pack and raised an eyebrow at Angel, who nodded as he took his second sip of Wesley's scotch, which he was now holding himself. Spike lit a cigarette with relief and took a drag, then turned to Wesley conversationally. "So, pet, who did you torture with darts, anyway?"

Wesley blinked and turned his attention to Spike. "Er.. beg pardon?"

Spike gave a little grin. "Somethin' I mentioned in email. You agreed. Seemed perfectly natural at the time. Then I got thinkin' - not such a usual human hobby. Just wondering if there's a good story there."

"Oh!" Wesley said. He glanced at Angel, who looked back at him with interest. "Er ... Angel was in trouble. A-and I needed to get some information. Seemed the thing to do at the time."

Angel asked, "When was this?"

Wesley fiddled with his glasses a little. "Last year. You remember. The ring?"

Spike blinked. "Angel was in trouble... the ring? Pet, I know I'm not as young as I used to be, but if you'd ever tortured me I'm pretty sure I would remember it. Fondly."

Wesley gave Spike a puzzled look. "Uh, no, um, this ... this was a different incident. Which didn't, as far as I'm aware, involve you. Angel had been kidnapped. And he was being forced to fight in a gladiator style ring. And I was having a difficult time in locating him."

"Should have told me that, Wes." Angel said.

Wesley shrugged it off. "Well we got you out."

"Yes," Angel said indulgently. "But that's still the kind of thing I'd like to know about."

"Oh!" Wesley said, fiddling with his glasses again. "Well - well I'll be sure to mention it next time."

Angel pulled Wesley a little closer. "You do that," he said, "'cause I'm gonna want to thank you."

"It's not necessary." Wesley got out.

"I think it is," Angel shrugged, taking another sip of Wesley's scotch, then putting the glass down as he motioned for Wesley to come closer. Wesley did, as though he were leaning in for a kiss, but at the last moment Angel turned his head and pressed his lips to Wesley's neck, causing Wesley to gasp, and then shiver.

Angel moved his lips up and down the vein for a moment, then pulled back and made an obvious swallow. Had that been ice on his lips? "Gonna tell me next time?" Angel asked.

Wesley licked his lips. "Yes," he whispered.

"Good," Angel replied. He slid a hand up inside of Wesley's sweater. "Wanna touch you, Wes."

Wesley leaned in to the touch, pleasure taking over whatever instincts he'd had to maintain a conversation before. "Yes, Angel," he whispered, turning his head and moving in to brush Angel's lips with his own.

Angel returned the gesture, shifting his weight in the chair so Wesley could lean against him. "Love you, Wes."

Wesley smiled, kissing Angel in earnest now. His eyes closed. "Love you too."

Angel continued kissing Wesley, still running his hand underneath Wesley's sweater, then eventually pulled it out and made a small come hither gesture to Spike.

Spike crushed out the cigarette and approached the couple, looking to Angel for instructions. Angel motioned to Spike to be patient. He unfastened the front of Wesley's pants, pulled out Wesley's cock and started stroking it. Wesley made a little sound of pleasure, happily going along with the touch. Spike licked his lips.

Angel continued to stroke Wesley until he began to move his hips in response. Then Angel moved his hand to stroke Wesley's thighs instead and motioned for Spike to pick up where he'd left off. Spike dropped to his knees and reached out to begin stroking Wesley's cock, imitating the rhythm he'd watched Angel set as closely as possible.

Wesley gave another little sound of pleasure at a slightly higher pitch. Spike's lips parted slightly and he licked his lips again. Wesley reached out his hand to hold onto the arm of the chair. Angel broke the kiss just long enough to make eye contact with Spike and point downward.

Spike took a moment to make sure he really had understood that right, and not succumbed to wishful thinking. No, Angel really had meant that. Continuing his hand's slow and steady strokes, Spike gladly leaned forward to take the tip of Wesley's cock in his mouth and give it a long, thorough kiss. Wesley gave a sharp gasp and trembled a little.

Spike sucked harder and took more of Wesley's hard cock into his mouth, swirling his tongue around it and sliding his hand down to cradle Wesley's balls. Spike leaned even further in, taking Wesley's cock all the way down his throat, and purred softly so Wesley could feel the vibrations. Wesley gave a soft moan, muffled by Angel's mouth. His hips started rocking, thrusting his cock into Spike's mouth. Spike noticed the scent of Angel's own arousal, overlayed by Wesley's and his own.

Angel's hand again slid under Wesley's sweater, toying with his nipples. As Wesley became more and more aroused, his moans became helpless little whimpers. Spike moaned around Wesley's cock, Angel's fingers moved under Wesley's sweater, and suddenly Wesley gave a sharp little cry and came. Spike swallowed, gently milking the last drops of come from Wesley's cock and then tenderly licking it clean.

Angel held Wesley soothingly as he came, and Angel murmured, "Thanks for saving me."

Spike sat back slightly and grinned, resting his cheek on Wesley's thigh.

Wesley kissed Angel lazily and finally replied, "you're welcome," in a dazed tone of voice. Wesley leaned back against Angel for a moment, gathering his breath and thoughts.

Angel held Wesley gently, flashing an approving look at Spike. Spike blew Angel a kiss.

Wesley blinked and licked his lips. "What was - oh, yes, right." He gave Angel a nice little smile to Angel and said, "Thank you," then looked down and gave Spike a shy smile, blushed, and said, "um.."

"Thank you, pet." Spike looked up, licked his own lips, and met Wesley's eyes, then looked over his shoulder. "Thank you, Angel."

Angel tidied Wesley up, putting his cock back in his pants, and gave a casual shrug. "Couldn't be in two places at once."

Spike grinned again. "Happy to lend a hand. Mouth. Whatever."

Wesley grinned, a light blush on his cheeks, and said, "Yes, um..."

Angel nipped Wesley on the ear. "Want me to leave you two alone?"

Spike froze. That wasn't how that was supposed to go. Had he done something wrong?

"Angel, no!" Wesley turned to touch Angel's cheek. "You!"

Angel rubbed his cheek against Wesley's hand. "Sure?"

Spike bit his tongue. He wasn't the one being asked. Wesley gave Angel a look as though he'd gone daft. "Well, you know," Angel said, shrugging, "just wanted to be sure."

Now Spike gave Angel a look as though he'd gone daft.

Wesley spoke to Angel in a tone of heavy patience. "Yes, Angel. I'm absolutely sure that at this moment I would like to pleasure you in any way that I can."

Spike looked up at Wesley and cocked an eyebrow. "Need a hand?"

"I just might," Wesley said, folding his arms and looking at Angel sternly.

Angel shrugged a little. "What, are you two teamin' up on me now?"

Spike looked at Wesley. Wesley caught Spike's look, turned to Angel and nodded. "Yes, I believe we are."

"Oh," Angel said, with mock seriousness, a hint of a challenge in his eyes, "So what are you gonna do?"

Wesley blinked, processing the question. He turned to Spike and asked, "what would two people do under these circumstances?"

Spike blinked, shifting mental gears. "Give me a minute, pet."

Wesley nodded, accepting that. With his arms still folded, he said to Angel, "You're not going to tell us what you want, either, are you?"

Angel propped his head up on his hand, appearing to consider the question. "Wasn't planning on it, no."

"You're an absolute wanker." said Wesley.

"That's one option, yeah."

"Shut up."

Spike unsuccessfully attempted to repress a snigger. Angel grinned. "You know I could..."

"Shut up."

Angel grinned again and sat back, happy to comply.

Wesley's expression showed that his wheels were turning. Wesley started moving one leg, and a flicker of pleasure appeared on Angel's face. Spike smiled. Angel said, "Wes, um..."

"I thought I told you to be quiet." Wesley responded. Angel's eyes held a look of satisfaction, which Wesley seemed to notice, but ignore. "Can't just *say* what you want because then god knows the bloody world would end." Spike gave up and began chortling outright, burying his face in Wesley's thigh.

"Um..." Angel said.

Wesley held up a finger of warning, and said to Spike, "he's a complete prat, isn't he?"

Spike looked up at Wesley with eyes brimming with laughter. "Couldn't have put it better myself."

Wes again addressed Angel. "I mean Angel, you invited us. Presumably you wanted us here. We came. Presumably we wanted to be here. And you are an utter burke for sitting there and asking if we wanted you to leave. It's your bloody hotel."

Spike, still bursting out with fits of laughter, mimed an elaborate bow, complete with a tip of his imaginary hat to Wesley.

Wesley grinned, acknowledging the gesture. Spike noticed laughter in Angel's eyes as well. Wesley gave Angel an expectant look. "Well? Have you anything to say for yourself?"

"I thought you told me to shut up," Angel replied.

"Absolutely right, I did." Wesley answered. "Well then," Wesley said, standing. Spike got to his feet and out of the way. "Spike, may I have your assistance?"

Spike drew near again. "Of course, pet. What should I do?"

Welsey turned to face Angel again with his arms folded. Wesley looked down at Angel, who was looking back at him with pleased expectation. "Hold him down."

A pleased smile of anticipation flickered into existence on Spike's face. "Anything you say, pet." he said ernestly, moving around behind Angel's chair to grab Angel's wrists and pin them against the chair back behind his head. Angel seemed surprised but not protesting. Spike gripped hard and leaned forward to whisper in Angel's ear. "*Very* good taste."

"No kidding," Angel muttered.

Wesley raised another warning finger. "Ah-," he said, correctively, "shut up."

Wesley unfolded his arms, dropped down to his knees, undid the front of Angel's pants, pulled out his cock, and began sucking it passionately. Spike leaned forward, resting his chin on Angel's shoulder to get a better view. Wesley's arms were braced against Angel's strong thighs, his eyes were closed, and there was a look of absolute peace and contentment on his face. Again, Spike knew the feeling.

Wesley was working hard, clearly trying to bring Angel to the edge as soon as possible. Angel's hands clenched into fists. He began to give little groans of pleasure, and his hips began to buck, thrusting his cock into Wesley's mouth. Spike, observing these signs with interest, shifted his grip on Angel's wrists slightly and bent to start kissing and nibbling his neck. Angel responded with a little growl of pleasure. His hips began to buck harder and his body stretched. "Wes..." Angel sighed. "Wes..." he said again, and Spike knew he was close to coming.

Spike nipped at Angel's throat just as Wesley began to increase the pressure. Angel's hips jerked as he exposed his throat even further. Spike groaned against Angel's throat. He shifted both of Angel's hands into one of his own and leaned forward to anchor them. He used his newly freed hand to reach forward and slip a hand under Angel's wifebeater to play with Angel's nipple, as he continued to suck and gently bite on Angel's neck. Wesley's hands tightened on Angel's hips.

Angel's head rocked back and forth. His hands clenched even further. He thrust hard into Wesley's mouth. "Wesley... shit... Wes... Wes..." and with that, Angel came with a pronounced buck of his entire body. He shuddered. Wesley happily swallowed and then licked Angel's cock clean. The tension in Angel's body slowly started to melt. Spike ran his fingers through Angel's hair and dropped a soft kiss on his forehead, then began to gently rub Angel's wrists where his fingers had left marks.

Wesley sat back and looked up at Angel. As Angel slowly calmed down, his eyes opened and he looked down at Wesley with yellow eyes. "Love you," Angel said hoarsely. He pulled his arms out of Spike's grasp, leaned forward and grabbed Wesley behind the head, pulling him up towards him. "Could not love you more." Angel said, and pressed his lips to Wesley's in an intense kiss. Finally Angel broke away, his hand cupped around Wesley's cheek, brushed his lips against Wesley's and repeated, "Love you, Wes." He leaned back just a bit so he could look over his shoulder, the yellow starting to fade from his eyes. "You too," he said.

Spike's mouth dropped open. After a moment he realized that nothing was going to come out, and closed it again. On the list of things he had never, ever expected to hear, that was pretty much numbers two through ten. Spike reached out a hand to stroke Angel's back, swallowed hard and tried again to speak. He flicked an apprehensive glance at Wesley, who was looking perfectly calm, apart from a few ginger jaw flexes. "I. Um. That. What?"

Angel gave Spike a patient look. "Love you."

Spike's eyes widened further. "You do? Why? Wait - since when? How did that happen? What are you talking about? Have you gone completely mental?" Spike glanced at Wesley on the last question. Wesley had a slight grin of recognition on his face. "Or have I?" Spike continued, "One or the other, Angel. Pick one."

Angel still watched this patiently, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Or I love you."

Spike blinked at Angel for a moment and then turned to Wesley. "So, *has* he gone stark raving mad, or is it me?"

"I don't know," Wesley said, turning to Angel. "Angel, have you gone stark raving mad?"

Angel considered it for a moment. "Don't think so, no."

Wesley turned back to Spike and said helpfully, "He says no. I guess it's you."

Spike actually found the idea that he was irremediably bonkers slightly reassuring. Still talking to Wesley, he replied. "Oh, well that's alright then. What's next? Little green men?"

Angel stood up, "No, next we go to bed. It's late, and Wes has got work in the morning." Wesley immediately stood up as well, saying, "so do you." Angel rolled his eyes. "I don't need as much sleep as you, Wes."

Spike looked from one to the other with slightly haunted eyes. "Bed. Okay. I can do that." He turned to Wesley, "Right?"

Angel leaned in to give Wesley a quick kiss and motioned for him to go upstairs. Wesley began to wander around turning off lights and locking the door. Angel stepped forward, and put his hand on Spike's chest. "Breathe," he said.

Spike sucked in a single breath and then looked blankly back at Angel wondering what he was supposed to do with it. "Why?" he asked.

"'Cause I said so," Angel replied. Wes wandered a little closer having taken care of the lights and door problem.

Angel looked at Spike appraisingly. "Or maybe you need Scotch."

"Scotch." Spike clutched the idea like a drowning man. "Scotch would be good."

Angel turned, reaching a hand out, and Wesley automatically supplied the glass for him. Angle flashed a smile of thanks to Wesley, and handed the glass to Spike, who took it with two hands like a little kid and proceeded to drink rapidly.

"Should I get more?" Wesley asked, watching the entire thing in fascination.

"He's okay," Angel replied. He turned and met Spike's eyes. "Spike, are you with me?"

"I think so." said Spike.

"How many fingers am I holding up?" Said Angel, holding up two.

"Two, Angel, I'm mad, not blind." answered Spike.

"He's fine," Angel said, turning and starting towards the staircase.

"Angel -"

Angel turns and smiles at him, "Yeah?"

"Love you too."

Angel smiled and held his hand out for Spike to take to follow him and Wesley upstairs.