Xanpet 12 a

The butler returned shortly; his heels clicked when he snapped to attention in front of the doors. I glanced at him then back toward Spike, who stared at me. Spike tilted his head slightly and a silent signal passed from Master Vampire to servant. The butler turned sharply; hands encased in crisp white gloves drew open the ornately inlaid doors. The polished wood gleamed in the warm light cast by the chandelier above me.

"Walk at least two paces behind me and slightly to my right," Spike ordered as he strode out the door. I frowned wondering if this was a new rule as I followed Spike out, walking behind him as he had asked.

I stopped as soon as we passed through the doorway, staring at the horizon as the last pink streaks of sunset bled into the violet gray of twilight. The fading light shadowed the gable rooftops across the street. I hadn´t been outside in over two months; in that moment, it struck me how much I missed the outside world and that I was really here.

The next instant, my nose wrinkled up at the smell. The pungent scents of urine and feces and decay blended with the sweet smell of sawdust that was scattered over the sidewalk and street. I smiled, even that unpleasantness was a welcome change from the stagnant scent of my room.

A sharp cry of ´tigre, tigre,´ rang out, drawing my attention to the road. I watched in fascination as several carriages creaked over the cobblestones, pulled forward by muscular horses whose hooves clacked rhythmically as they trotted. The small boy who had been shouting, jumped onto a small step at the back of a carriage, jostled away with the other passengers.

Spike cleared his throat and I realized he´d been waiting for me. I offered him a sheepish smile moving down the front stairs onto the sidewalk. Spike stood before an uncovered ebony carriage, watching me while a minion waited beside the vehicle, holding open a small door. Two large horses snorted and shuffled at the front of the carriage; a second minion his shoulders rounded sat in a forward facing seat holding thick leather reins in his hands. I slowly approached Spike, my head turned and my face crinkled up in distaste when a stream of strong smelling piss splashed into the sawdust beneath one of the horses.

"Eww huuhh huuh," I desperately tried to cough over my word of disgust. I glanced at Spike nervously, not sure if that would be counted as speaking out of turn. Spike had arched his eyebrow; his lips curled up slightly in a smirk. He didn´t seem angry with me but I had already nearly screwed it up. I hoped I got through the night. I stopped in front of him and unobtrusively brushed my hand against his while I looked over at a minion. I was startled when the lower vampire´s eyes flashed gold at me and he growled deep from his throat. My eyes darted back to Spike, waiting for permission.

"Yes, Pet?" He asked softly.

"Uh, does it always smell like this?"

Spike chuckled loudly. My eyes darted to the minions who were looking at Spike strangely. I got the impression that they weren´t used to Spike laughing unless it was Spike ´laughing before he ripped their heads off´ kind of humor. Spike´s eyes still glittered with amusement when he answered me.

"This is pretty good. Storm came through a couple days ago, washed things clean. Gotta remember," Spike shrugged, "sewage systems, well they´re here but fairly new and horses. Don´t forget the horses."

Spike grinned at me just before he leapt up into the carriage. Damn vampire. He made it look easy but I noticed right away that the carriage was too steep for me to enter it in one go. Spike held his hand out for me. Unlike him, I stepped onto the side rung before reaching up. He gripped my palm firmly then hauled me up into the carriage. For an instant, my other foot scrabbled for purchase, before high stepping inside. I stumbled forward and Spike grabbed me, pulling me in close. His hand snaked between us to briefly squeeze my still hard cock, then released me. It all happened so fast, I don´t think anyone noticed, except Spike and me. Spike, who now lounged casually on the small cushioned bench inside the carriage, staring at me as if nothing untoward had happened. I guess for him it hadn´t, what he had done was no different from what he would do when I was stripped down and in my room with him. I groaned, abruptly sitting down opposite Spike, at the mental image of his hand teasing my naked flesh. I was sure Spike sensed the blood suffusing my skin as well as the renewed ache in my loins because he openly grinned at me now. Jerk, I thought, pointedly looking away from him. A sharp order burst from Spike and my hands flew to grip the seat as the carriage lurched into the street.

The snuffling snorts and loud clapping of hooves from our horses soon coalesced with that of other carriages being pulled over the cobblestone road. I smiled giddily, peering over the edge of our carriage as we passed by several small markets at the corner of the street. Fresh fruit and vegetables were displayed in wooden crates and, occasionally, we were close enough for me to hear the rhythmic rise and fall of conversation between customers and merchants. I nearly forgot the rule, turning toward Spike to comment about people or things that I saw. Then I remembered.

Several times after that, my mouth opened to say something but I quickly shut it before I could get myself into trouble. I could´ve asked for permission, but that would mean stretching myself across the distance of the footspace to reach Spike´s hand. I also wasn´t sure how many times I would have to do that. I glanced out the other side of the carriage, my jaw dropped at the sight of a woman racing by riding what looked like a chariot out of Gladiator. I grinned and turned back to say something to Spike then frowned; I didn´t have permission. Damn it. I wasn´t used to this. He was the only person I ever talked to and now he had taken that away from me. Not just for tonight, but from now on. I sobered at that thought. Dejected, I stared down at my hands; Paris didn´t seem so bright to me anymore.

I didn´t notice Spike had moved until his cool hand slid between my own; his fingers laced with mine. Surprised, I glanced up at him and he smiled at me.

"So, Pet, what do you think of Paris so far?"

I opened my mouth to answer then paused. If he asked me a question did I have his permission to speak? He had never said, but he was holding my hand so did that count? My brow furrowed and I bit my lip in frustration. I didn´t know if I could speak without getting into trouble.

"Pet?" Spike asked, sounding concerned. I decided to play it safe and reached out to brush my free hand against the hand that held mine. I looked back at Spike expectantly and met his startled blue eyes, which quickly filled with satisfaction. Spike drew his hand from mine, briefly caressing my cheek before sliding his palm down the length of my arm to clasp my hand in his once more.

"Pet, I´m pleased you understand the new rule; that you asked permission." He said softly. "However, if I ask you a direct question, you always have permission to answer me."

"Unless it´s rhetorical?" I snorted at Spike with a smile, remembering what happened last time I answered a question Spike didn´t expect me to answer.

"Unless it´s rhetorical," Spike stated; a brief smile crossed his lips. "So, are you going to answer my question?"

"Yeah," I said. "Paris is neat. I mean, the smell kind of got to me at first, but I guess it´s not so bad when you´re used to it. Plus, horses, lots of horses," I shrugged. "I´m guessing it´s not a pick up after your horse kind of place. And the open markets remind me of the farmers market that Wills took me to one summer, just a lot smaller I guess and did you see that guy from before?" I turned around, pointing behind us as if the French gentlemen would´ve kept up with our carriage, then turned back to Spike. "It was like the human version of Pepe Le Peu. The gas lights are neat too. I mean, it´s hard to believe how much has changed since then, er, now I guess." I sighed and looked at Spike. "I wonder what it looks like in our time?"

"I´m glad you like it. Paris is one of my favorite cities. Plenty to do here, too."

I opened my mouth to say something, but Spike cut me off.

"And I mean human fun, Pet."

"Were you ever here before?" I asked somberly, looking down at our intertwined hands. "I mean, you know, before the whole grr, argh thing."

Spike remained silent; I thought he wasn´t going to answer me.

"No," Spike said simply then launched into a description about the area of Paris that we were in and some of the history that I hadn´t learned during the tedium that was high school. Spike was able to bring the past of Paris as well as the people and places that we saw to life for me. Maybe it was the fact that I was there, surrounded by people speaking French and places labeled with foreign words, at a time that was the past, but my interest showed. I interrupted him often asking questions or for him to repeat a French word or phrase to me. Luckily, Spike didn´t seem to mind, smiling when I tried to twist my tongue around some of the French pronunciations he was teaching me. I was almost disappointed when the carriage shuddered to a halt in front of a large stone building.

"We´re here, Pet," Spike announced. I sighed and stood up only when Spike did. The same minion as before held the door open for us and Spike agilely jumped to the pavement. I eyed the distance from the carriage to the curbside and then jumped behind him. The thick layer of sawdust in the street, turned to muck with god knows what, slid out from under my foot. Only Spike´s vampiric reflexes stopped me from toppling over into the filth as well.

"Th–," I began to thank Spike, only to stop myself once again when I realized I might not have permission to speak anymore, now that we were out of the carriage. My heart thumped partly from the rush of nearly falling and partly in fear as Spike gently tapped his finger against my lips.

"Need to watch that, Pet," he teased. I cast my eyes downward with a small nod. Yeah, like I didn´t know that. Spike spoke rapid French to the minions who responded with numerous ´ways´ and nods. Strange, I always thought yes was ´wee´ in French, not ´way´ but maybe it was different back then. Spike turned back to me and I looked at him.

"Follow me," he ordered. I did, remembering to remain slightly behind Spike and at his right. We walked up to the entrance of the building; the doors opened from the inside at our approach. A servant, similar in dress to the butler back at Spike´s mansion, greeted us. Spike doffed his hat and coat, then gestured to me. I quickly handed him mine as well. The servant took them before leading us up a wide, curving marble staircase to the second floor.

I couldn´t help but stare in awe at the grandeur of the building. The marble of the staircase blended into intricately inlaid tiles that paved our way along the second floor hallway. Heavy wooden beams curved gracefully upward, supporting the vaulted ceiling. The dark stain of the wood didn´t detract from the intricate gilt moldings that decorated the wall wherever it met the arch of the ceiling. I wondered at the architecture of the time. How had they built this without the benefits of modern technology?

Chandeliers illuminated the hallway casting a warm glow against the cathedral ceiling above us. Masterful paintings decorated the walls and the low lighting seemed to highlight these works of art. I had never seen anything like it. We turned into another room that was just as regal, only this area contained several tables set for dining; only one of the tables had people sitting at it. A dark haired woman and a young red headed man sat across from each other, holding hands.

I didn´t want to be caught staring, so I focused my attention on Spike. The butler bowed to us, then left; not an instant had passed before another servant greeted Spike. I surreptitiously studied my surroundings while attempting to appear at least vaguely interested in a conversation I couldn´t understand. Long, red velvet drapes framed windows that ran from the floor to the ceiling, which was a more modest version of the vaulted dome over the entrance and hallway. I shuffled slightly from foot to foot, then happened to glance at the only other occupants of the room while Spike was talking. The brunette looked up in time to catch me staring. Her lips curved into a small teasing smile, similar to the smirk I´d seen innumerable times on Spike. I blushed, realizing that I had been caught but for a long moment I was unable to look away. I finally pried my gaze away from her studying my feet. I forcibly restrained myself from meeting her eyes again.

"Pet?" Spike asked. I looked up to see that he had been waiting for me. I wondered if he´d been trying to get my attention for awhile. My eyes barely flickered toward the woman but Spike saw the movement and followed it. I focused my eyes on Spike´s feet now. Had he noticed I´d been staring? "Pet," he said, lifting my chin. "I´d be disappointed if you let yourself fall under the thrall of some fledgling Master." His eyes traveled back to the occupied table. "A pretty one, though, I´ll grant you that." Spike´s hand dropped from my face and he turned away to follow the servant.

My eyes widened when I realized what he meant. I almost looked back as I followed Spike, wanting to see the woman again, now that I knew her to be a vampire. I didn´t though; it was probably her status as only a fledgling Master that had prevented her from enthralling me, if what Spike said was true. I shivered remembering the awful experience of being under Dracula´s thrall. I moved closer to Spike.

The servant led us to a fairly secluded table, beautifully set with crystal and china. He pulled out a chair for Spike, who gracefully sank into the plush seat. The man pulled out the chair opposite for myself as well. I carefully sat down, afraid of knocking anything over.

"Hungry Pet?" Spike asked.

"Kind of," I muttered, feeling awkward now that I was actually sitting down, planning to stay in such a fancy place. I held myself stiffly, afraid to move for fear I´d embarrass Spike or myself. I glanced across at my undead companion. Spike sat with a relaxed arrogance; he belonged here.

"Well, we´re here to eat," Spike said, taking the menu that was handed to him.

I hadn´t noticed our waiter arrive but held out a hand for a menu. I flushed at the look he gave me and then realized that he didn´t have a menu for me. I withdrew my hand abruptly, setting my water glass wobbling then steadied it too quickly; water slopped over the edge. A large wet patch spread out on the tablecloth. I hunched low in my chair, wishing I could fade into the brocade wallpaper that lined the room, or at the very least hide in a set of the voluminous drapes framing each window. I wouldn´t even look at Spike, choosing instead to stare down at my hands twisting in my lap rather than see the disappointment in his eyes. Spike said something softly in French and our waiter walked away. I had been so excited to go out with Spike, but now I simply wished for the comfort of my room back at the mansion.

"Pet?" Spike said softly. I cleared my throat, which had suddenly grown tight at Spike´s gently voiced inquiry. I ran a finger along the handle of my knife, an elegant piece of silver ware, obviously designed for beauty as well as function. I turned it over once then twice, the light glinting off the shiny metal. I flushed when Spike´s hand reached out to hold mine, stopping my fidgeting. I should´ve realized that what I was doing wouldn´t be appropriate here. I tried to pull my hand back, feeling even more of a fool than I already did. Spike held my hand more tightly, till I finally relaxed in his grip.

"Pet, what´s wrong?" Spike asked. I shook my head, my hair drifted forward, obscuring my eyes. We sat quietly for a long moment; Spike sighed, stroking his fingers over the back of my hand. "Pet, it´s no longer a request. I want to know what´s bothering you."

"Oh so now I can speak?" I asked as I glanced at Spike. It wasn´t fair, he was so damn comfortable here and I was so not. Spike didn´t say anything to me but the hard glint that flashed across his eyes spoke volumes. That look was a reprimand with which I´d become familiar.

"I´m waiting, Pet" Spike spoke softly but the inherent threat in that phrase had been shouted, "but not for much longer."

I wondered what Spike would do if I didn´t answer him; maybe he would just take me home instead. It was so stupid that I felt awkward here. Spike and I were alone, except for that one other couple and the servants. Yet, I felt so out of place. He said we´d have fun tonight, that I´d have fun; this wasn´t fun. Maybe if I told him what was bothering me we might leave and eat somewhere else, like a burger joint. Did Paris have burger joints back in Spike´s day? Spike´s fingers stopped caressing my hand; my time was up. Twice I opened my mouth, unsure of what I wanted to say, then finally.

"Because we´re here," I whispered subdued by the grandeur that surrounded me.

"Huh?"

I peered up at Spike then snorted softly at the look on his face. He didn´t get it. I frowned at that thought, of course Spike didn´t get it. Spike was part of the ´in´ crowd and obviously always had been. He wouldn´t understand what I was feeling. I pulled my hand away from Spike´s and this time, he let me go.

"Tell me what you mean," Spike said.

"You...you won´t understand," I commented.

"Try me, Pet," Spike replied.

"It´s this place Spike," I looked around briefly before meeting his eyes. Spike still looked confused. Undoubtedly, we were at the best that money could buy, and the fact that I found fault with it made no sense to Spike. I ran my fingers over the edge of the table, then began lightly pressing wrinkles into the tablecloth before smoothing them out again.

"When I first started dating Anya, I once took her to Raphael´s." I glanced up at Spike. "It´s this really nice Italian restaurant there. Um, ya know, pricey, I´d only ever been there once before myself. I thought that she´d like it and I wanted to do something special for her." I shrugged, clearing my throat. "Anya, well, she could act inappropriate at times but I never thought...." Spike snorted as my voice faded.

"What happened, Pet?" Spike prompted me.

"What didn´t? The date was a disaster. The waiter spoke with a heavy Italian accent, and she asked me why we couldn´t get someone who spoke American. He was standing right there when she said it. Then, when our meal came, she was upset about the smaller portions. I tried to stop her cause I knew that´s what those places are like, but when Anya gets going there´s nothing I can do. She brought the chef out and explained to him that I needed a larger serving. She required me to have sufficient stamina so that I could give her multiple orgasms. I think most people in the restaurant were as red as I was by then. I was relieved after that, thinking that it couldn´t get any worse, but I was wrong.

By dessert, she decided that the oysters from my dinner must´ve made me horny," a self–deprecating smile crossed my face. "According to her, they´re an aphrodisiac. So, Anya decided that I needed relief right then, plus she said I´d last longer later. I tried to get our check when I realized what she was going to do but it was too late. She crawled under the table to uh, well, you know. We were at one of the most expensive restaurants in Sunnydale and Anya was going down on me and of course, after she she´d started was when the waiter arrived with our check. I could barely speak, never mind that I´m sure he heard her. She wasn´t exactly quiet about it. I thought I´d never come and everyone was staring. When we left, I was politely asked to take my business elsewhere next time."

The soft sounds of the dining area replaced my voice. Spike didn´t say anything, but I could hear his stuttered breathing. I finally looked up at him because Spike didn´t need to breathe. Spike sat across from me, his lips twitched as he choked back the laughter that threatened to burst forth.

I gaped then snapped my mouth shut. It wasn´t funny; it was humiliating. Spike met my eyes and could no longer hold back. His rich laughter rolled over me and watching him crack up, I felt my lips curl in amusement. Okay, maybe it was a little funny. I snorted softly, then chuckled. Spike caught his breath, then laughed when he looked at me again, and this time I couldn´t hold back, breaking into a loud laugh myself. I could feel the stares of the servants and patrons pressing against us at our boisterous humor, but tried to ignore it. Finally, our laughter softened into occasional chuckles and Spike wiped his eyes then looked at me.

"This was the girl you wanted to marry?"

"Yeah, well, yeah," I replied.

"Still doesn´t explain why you were unhappy, Pet," Spike said.

"Yes, it does," I sighed. "Look at you, you belong here and I...I well, don´t. I mean, it´s like, here, I´m Anya at Raphael´s. You wanted to take me somewhere nice to hold up your end of the bargain, I get that but..." My voice faded to a whisper and I looked down at the table. "I´m just...I don´t...I´m gonna embarrass us, Spike. It´s not gonna be pretty."

"On the contrary, Pet," Spike said, gently taking my hand again. "I find you very pretty."

"That´s not what I meant," I snorted.

I was too big and broad to be pretty; Spike was the pretty one. Spike looked at me with a small smile curving his lips; his cheekbones cut shadows above his jaw and honey blonde curls were tousled over his head. The dim lighting highlighted the surreal paleness of Spike´s skin; his blue eyes appearing nearly black. Yeah, he was the beautiful one; I was the ugly duckling. I sighed, dropping my eyes away from him.

"I know," Spike said softly. I shot him a startled look, as if he might´ve read my thoughts. His fingers traced random patterns against my hand before he continued. "Still think you´re pretty."

"Can´t we go somewhere else that´s less fancy?" I asked desperately.

"Pet," Spike said. "This is the best and the House of Aurelius won´t settle for less than that. Which means we stay."

"Only the best?" I asked. "Then why even take me as your Pet. I´m not the best. Nothing special about me."

"Don´t underestimate yourself," Spike replied softly. "The upper echelons have heard much about you; you´re quite the topic of conversation. However, the rumors have nothing on the reality." I stared at Spike as he lifted my hand. Vampires were talking about me? I frowned. Why?

"Spike, I..."

"You´re attentive," Spike spoke so softly I strained to catch his words, inhaling sharply when he pressed an open mouthed kiss against my index finger.

"Spike!" I hissed, frantically looking around to see who was watching us. I tugged against him, but he wouldn´t set me free. I dragged wide eyes back to Spike´s sultry gaze. "You´re humorous," he said with a smile and kiss on my second finger. Oh god. My eyes dropped from Spike´s to stare at his pale pink lips, which gently caressed my fingers as he spoke. I winced when my cock pressed more fully against my pants.

"You´re loyal," Spike said. I licked my lips as Spike´s pressed soft and cool against another finger.

"And you´re mine." Spike kissed the palm of my hand. "You are special Pet, whether you believe it or not."

"Oh god," I muttered hoarsely, drawing in a rough breath as Spike released me. I grimaced and gripped the edge of the table. My eyes peered up at Spike and I saw the smug look on his face. Bastard. He knew he was making my arousal even more painful. "Do you have any idea how much this hurts?" I complained.

"Yes, I do." I was shocked by Spike´s answer. When would he have ever had to endure something like this? He wasn´t someone´s Pet. Spike spoke before I could ask him about it.

"And just to make you feel comfortable, you should know that while Angelus might take me to task were I to displease him publicly, no one else would dare risk offending me. So you can´t possibly embarrass me. You could set the place on fire, burn it to the ground and no one would say one word against us. I could strip you down, lay you on the table and make you cum while everyone watched. We would still be accorded the same respect as when we first walked in that door." I stared at Spike´s wet lips, groaning softly at his words. My cock was excruciating within the confines of my trousers and suddenly the stripping down and getting to cum part didn´t sound so bad, it was the other parts that made me reluctant.

"Now, let´s enjoy your evening. Do you trust me, Pet?" Spike asked as he reached for his menu.

"Uh, to choose my meal?" I asked, disoriented by his quick change in conversation.

"Your meal is as good a start as any," Spike replied with a smile. I smiled back; he was joking with me.

"Well, sure," I shrugged, "You´ve always fed me." I blushed, realizing that my statement could be taken literally. "And I meant that in a ´deciding what I eat not hand feeding me´ kind of way."

Spike waved the waiter over with the slightest gesture of his hand. The man stood stoically at our table, his attention directed at Spike as the vampire rattled off our order in rapid French.

"Are you gonna let me know what you got?"

"Later, as the meal is served, I can tell you what everything is."

"Will you tell me the French for it, too?" I asked and Spike nodded.

Another servant returned to our table, uncorking a bottle of champagne. Spike tasted it, before nodding his acceptance. The young man filled both our glasses then set the bottle to chill beside Spike. It was silent for a moment and I took in our surroundings again.

"It´s an amazing building, Spike," I said. "Have you been here before?"

"Yes, alone with Angelus, as well as with him, Darla and Druscilla."

"Oh," I said meekly. I wondered if the other patrons scurried when the four members of the Scourge of Europe entered. A small frown marred my brow as I realized that Spike often spoke of his Sire but rarely mentioned the women. Maybe, they´re not even here, I thought. I´d only ever seen Angelus and, thankfully, I didn´t see him all that often.

"Do you mind if I ask where, uh, they are? Darla and Dru, that is. I haven´t seen them around."

"No Pet," Spike replied, "I don´t mind if you ask."

Spike didn´t say anything further and I wondered if he was messing with me. I could ask but he wasn´t going to answer me.

"So, uh, where are they?"

"Hmm, visiting with the Parisian Master," Spike sounded so bourgeois as he answered me. I looked up; his hair glinted in the soft lighting and his blue eyes were shadowed.

"Oh," I said stupidly. Not really understanding the significance of his statement. "Parisian Master?" I finally asked.

"Master vampire of the City of Light, Pet. He´s a bit eccentric, though, and prefers to hold his court in the French countryside. Since the House of Aurelius hunts in Paris only by his leave, it seemed appropriate that we send our thanks personally."

I hadn´t realized it was so formal. It had never sounded that way reading about vampire social structure in the Watcher´s Journals.

"But wha–"

"Enough," Spike said curtly. "We´re here for human fun, correct. I never knew you considered discussing vampire´s recreational."

"Uh, no, I just wondered is all." I wanted to learn more, but knew I would just anger Spike. Were Darla and Dru going to return? I figured that, eventually they would. I would just have to deal. Hopefully, nothing much would change. It wasn´t great being...here, but so far it was bearable. A small, evil voice in my head reminded me that things would change; probably when Spike´s sexual frustration reached it´s peak. I mean, him and Dru had a vampire thing going on, right? Suddenly, I was more fearful of Darla and Dru staying away for too long, rather than returning.

"Okay," I agreed. "No more vamp talk. So where are we going tonight? Will you take me to the Eiffel tower? I really want to check it out. I mean, that and the Mona Lisa are the big things that people talk about, right?"

"Not going to the Tower tonight, Pet," Spike said. "I have something else planned; there´s more to France than the Eiffel Tower and the Mona Lisa."

Silence fell as the first course arrived. The waiter deftly slid a tray of lightly toasted bread topped with different, well, things, in front of us.

"These are ´canapes´," Spike said, enunciating the foreign word for me as cah nah pay. I repeated it after him pleased with myself when Spike nodded and smiled at my pronunciation. I waited for Spike to serve himself. Normally, I would´ve just dug in and grabbed some, but I was still very aware that people were watching every move I made and unsure what it exactly was that we were eating. Spike placed several of the different toasts onto his plate. I followed his lead and placed the same selection on my plate. One I recognized; it looked like salmon with some kind of sauce piped onto it in a design. Another one was some kind of meat and the third was topped with a small dollop of black goop. I wasn´t sure I wanted to try that one.

"Smoked salmon," Spike said, pointing out the one I had recognized. "This is a dry sausage, shipped in from Lyon and the last is caviar."

"Uh, caviar, like the fish eggs or caviar, something I might be willing to eat?"

"Caviar like the fish eggs, Pet," Spike smirked. "And while I won´t make you eat anything here, I would ask that you at least try it."

Spike finished his proclamation by picking up one of the caviar toasts and popping it into his mouth. His teeth softly crunched the canape. Spike seemed to enjoy the fish egg thing but there was no way that was going to be my first attempt. I picked up the salmon, taking a small bite from one side. I hadn´t ever had smoked fish before, and I was surprised to find that the spicy butter stuff on top and the toasted bread toned down the strong woody flavor infused into the fish. I popped the rest of it into my mouth.

"S´good," I said after I swallowed the mouthful I had.

"Good, I hoped you´d like it," Spike replied. "Going to be more adventurous this time?" Spike arched his eyebrow looking pointedly at the caviar canape. "I did ask that you at least try it."

"Sure."

Spike had seemed to like it and the salmon had tasted good, so optimistically, I picked up the caviar one and tried that. The small, briny eggs hit my tongue and my face twisted into a grimace. I chewed once and the eggs popped open, salty fluid splashed out of the small, crunchy roe. That was so ew. I wished I could spit it back out but instead grabbed my glass of champagne, swallowing the serving nearly whole.

"Ugh," I said with a sour look on my face. "How can you stand that stuff?"

"Like the texture, Pet," Spike replied matter of fact, picking up another one. "They just pop open in your mouth, the guts splashing around."

"And ew."

Spike just grinned as he chewed, then swallowed.

"Go on, try the next."

I tentatively picked up the sausage one, nervous after the horror that was caviar. I took a small bite and then mmm´d in pleasure. This one was my favorite. I took a sip of the champagne then told Spike.

"After that experience, I can say that I´m definitely a meat eater," I snagged the few remaining sausage canapes. "You can have my caviar ones; I want your sausage," I said, pushing the disgusting fish egg things towards Spike, before eating another sausage canape.

My head shot up, startled when Spike laughed out loud.

"Not a problem Pet," he choked out through his laughter. "Anytime, anywhere."

I frowned in confusion, until I realized what I´d just said. Embarrassed, blood rushed to my face. "Suddenly, I´m wondering if there´s a vegetarian option," I mumbled.

Spike chuckled again.

"Sorry Pet, there´s not," Spike said, then leered at me. "Besides I´ve already said you have to try everything, at least once."

"Yeah, but..." I trailed off; we weren´t discussing the appetizers anymore.

"But what?"

"What if I like it less than the caviar?" I mumbled dejectedly.

"You won´t know till you try it Pet, yeah?"

"I try it, I hate it. Then what?" I asked forlornly.

"We deal," Spike sighed at the look on my face. "Pet, you seem to think you´re in this alone. You´re not. I´m right there with you. I´m not saying you´ll never do something that you don´t like. Even I have to do things of which I´m not particularly fond––"

"You do? Like what?" I cut in.

Spike growled low in his throat.

"Wait for one," he said. "Patience is a virtue, I´m not all that virtuous, Pet. And don´t interrupt me. It´s something I dislike."

"Oh," I said. "Sorry." I paused, then added, "for interrupting you, I mean."

"Didn´t think it´d be about the other, Pet."

At that moment, our used plates were cleared away and within minutes our next course arrived. A new bottle of wine was uncorked for Spike´s approval; this time it was red. The waiter filled both our glasses, before placing the bottle at the table.

"So," I began brightly once the waiter had left. "What are we eating this time?"

"It´s pesto linguini with smoked duck."

"Duck," I said, slightly horrified. "You mean we´re eating Donald?"

"Yeah, Pet," Spike said. "Never did like the way that bugger talked."

"Me either," I snorted, lifting my fork. I frowned at how uncomfortable I felt holding the utensil, I hoped that I didn´t make a fool of myself when I actually tried to use it.

"Troubles Pet?" Spike asked.

"Nah, not really," I said still fidgeting. "It´s just been awhile. Feels kind of strange."

Spike stretched across the table and stabbed his fork into my pile of pasta, deftly twisted it, then lifted the forkful to my mouth.

"Here," Spike said simply. I met his eyes, wondering what he was thinking. I leaned forward slightly, taking his offering into my mouth. For some reason, I pulled back slowly, my lips gliding along the tines of the fork. I saw Spike´s eyes widen slightly, the tip of his tongue reached out the slightest bit to touch his upper lip as he watched me. I chewed thoughtfully, then swallowed the food and looking right at Spike asked,

"May I have a drink as well, Master?"

He groaned and I broke into a grin, reaching for my glass. At that moment, I knew I wasn´t the only one at the table with a hard on. I felt like I had evened the score between us, even if only for a moment. Spike intercepted my hand, lifting my glass for me. I smiled at him, then took a lingering sip before pulling away. I ran my tongue over my lips surprised when Spike inhaled sharply. I flushed.

"Sorry," I muttered.

"What for?" Spike asked.

"I wasn´t, didn´t mean to..."

I stumbled over my words.

"Tease me?"

"Well, at first, yeah," I said with a grin, then added ruefully, "but just then, I was actually tasting the wine."

I don´t think I had ever purposefully teased Spike, at least not sexually. I hadn´t really thought past that point. I should´ve, especially since Dru wasn´t here to relieve any of the tension that I created. It was a stupid thing to have done.

"Well, Pet, do you like it?" Spike asked in a low voice, his eyes narrowing slightly.

"Uh, the wine?" I asked. "Yeah, it´s good. Actually, it´s all good. Even Donald."

I lifted my fork, this time managing to feed myself. I wasn´t lying; I really did enjoy the meal. Spike started a running commentary on Paris while we ate. Telling me about some of the sights as well as nineteenth century entertainment. A little bit later, I remarked on what he had just told me.

"Wait a minute," I said, my fork midair. "You´re telling me that they have wrestling here. But it´s Oil Wrestling? So we´re talking Spice channel and not WWF type stuff, right?"

"Neither, they take the sport very seriously," Spike said, smiling at me before sipping his wine. "It was considered the most difficult sport in the world." He leaned toward me as he began telling me the story. "See, in 1867 the Ottoman Sultan visited France and oil wrestlers were part of his entourage. At some point, Impératrice Eugenie visited the wrestling–tournament. ´Course, royal attendance was the best promotion the sport could get. It had been around before, but I think that´s what really set it off. So, now there are oil wrestling tournaments."

I laughed; Spike sounded almost wistful.

"So, is that what we´re going to do tonight. Take in some oil wrestling?"

"Not tonight, Pet," Spike said. "Maybe next time. We´ll keep it in mind."

"Next time?" I asked, pausing to look at him. My lips curled up slightly. "That would be cool."

We were served a cheese course next.

"Spike, I´m not going to be able to move after all this food." I complained, barely tasting the herb covered cheese before stopping, then sipping some more wine. I was feeling pleasantly bu

ed and nearly too full.

"You´re not eating much," I pointed out, having noticed that Spike tended to taste everything that was served, but rarely finished his portion.

"Vampire here, Pet," Spike said. "Don´t need to eat."

"Oh," I said. "So why bother eating at all?"

"Well, it´s your night out," Spike explained. "I doubt you´d find this as enjoyable if you were eating alone while I watched."

"You´re eating because of me?" I said. Spike didn´t reply, but the answer was obvious. I directed a small smile at him. "Thanks."

"My pleasure," Spike replied. "Dessert?"

"Ugh, not sure I can eat any more." I leaned back in my chair, stretching out a bit. "And, I think I´m a little drunk."

Spike chuckled, waving the waiter over. Once again our plates were cleared away.

"No worries, Pet," Spike laughed. "I´ll keep an eye out for you. Now, how do you feel about chocolate?"

"Mmm, chocolate. Yum."

I couldn´t say no to chocolate and if desert was half as good as everything else, I´d be in heaven.

"Chocolate mousse for desert, then we´re on our way." Spike said amicably; soon a waiter appeared with our final course. The chocolate mousse was set before me and even after all I had eaten I could feel my mouth water. The rich chocolate pudding was topped with whipped cream, grated chocolate and some kind of liquor soaked cherries. The server also switched out the red wine for champagne but I tried to limit myself. I already felt a bit alcohol happy and was certain that passing out before Spike took me wherever he was taking me would be a bad thing.

"God that looks good," I said.

"Tastes better," Spike replied matter of factly picking up a spoon and dipping it into the whipped confection. I watched him briefly, then shrugged and casting my cherries and whipped cream aside, delved into the creamy chocolate. I couldn´t stop the small sound of satisfaction in my throat. I swallowed then looked at Spike.

"Oh my god, that´s so good," I said.

"Glad you like."

Spike only had a few bites of his dessert before stopping and drinking his wine while watching or talking to me.

"I´ve done it," I said, setting my spoon down and looking at Spike.

"Done what?"

"Reached the point, where I can´t eat another bite."

I set my spoon down and leaned back a little in the chair. I didn´t think I could move. Spike lifted his chin toward my dish, where I´d done significant damage to my dessert.

"Don´t like the cherries?" Spike asked.

I shrugged.

"It´s not a matter of like, just chocolate´s better," I eyed Spike from beneath partially lowered lashes. He wasn´t going to get me a second time. My lips twitched as I said. "You cannot have them."

"You´re right there, Pet." I frowned when Spike offered me a tight smile before asking, "You ready to leave?"

"Yeah, sure," I replied, wondering what he was thinking. "You might have to carry me, though," I groaned. I´d totally overdone it. That had been way too much food, even for me.

Spike nodded toward the waiter, our table was quickly cleared. The waiter pulled back Spike´s seat for him and then my own. I stretched a little as I stood, turning my head I realized that I was definitely buzzed. I frowned wondering how much I had drunk during the meal. I couldn´t recall, and then Spike was at my side, his hand touching my elbow.

"Don´t forget the rules Pet," Spike reminded me gently; I nodded, following behind him as I had been instructed to earlier that evening and within moments our hats and coats were returned and we had been directed outside.

The chilled air cut across my skin as we stood on the sidewalk. I shivered, thankful for the layers of clothes that protected me. Spike breathed deeply and I wondered why since he didn´t need to breathe. The minions were already waiting for us curbside, but Spike turned to me.

"Wait here," he said. My arms were wrapped around my chest and the rich food and drink was making me feel lethargic. Spike didn´t wait for my answer; instead he strode over to the carriage and said something in rapid French to the coachman. Several nods later and Spike came back, accompanied by a minion.

"Wha–" I cut myself off, just barely in time. The minions both gave me a wondering look, for how much I kept spluttering around half voiced words they probably thought I was ill. Spike knew better and sharp golden eyes stared into mine. He wasn´t happy with that near miss. I swallowed and brushed my hand over his.

"No Pet," Spike said. "Mistakes shouldn´t be rewarded."

I gaped at him. He wasn´t going to give me permission to speak. I could feel the anger rising up inside me. It wasn´t my fault, we´d easily spent more than an hour freely chatting over dinner and suddenly I was supposed to remember not to speak. Not only that but I´d been drinking, something that wasn´t exactly conducive to restraint. I glared at Spike.

"Your anger is unbecoming, Pet," Spike said. "I´ve already overextended myself on your behalf, since I was polite enough to remind you of the rule before we left."

I gritted my teeth resolutely. I couldn´t even argue with him. The alcohol I´d imbibed just fueled my fury. If he wouldn´t let me speak to him, then fine. They said that actions spoke louder than words. I would learn to scream without opening my mouth. I threw Spike an evil look then pointedly turned my back towards him before walking over to the carriage. Spike was on me before I´d even reached the handle of the door. His arms wrapped around me, his supernatural strength held my arms by my sides. He was really pissing me off. I couldn´t move my arms, but my feet were free. I lifted my foot and Spike´s voice whispered against my ear.

"Think twice Pet." Those words walked over my grave and I shivered in his arms. "You´re already up for one punishment–"

I inhaled and it was only Spike´s reflexes that saved me from shouting out: "what, why´! His hand flew up and covered my mouth, stopping me.

"You can thank me for that later," Spike murmured, then sighed. "Such anger Pet, such defiance." One of Spike´s hands drifted down my chest, before cupping my groin, he stroked his palm over my trapped erection. "And even then you still do my bidding."

My eyes widened in horror and everything slowed down around me. I hadn´t even realized I was still hard. I glanced upward and met the leering gaze of the minion driving the carriage, my head twisted around and the other fledgling vampire snickered behind us. I struggled for air, writhing in Spike´s grip and for an instant the shimmer of the gas street lights against the sweaty cobblestone faded from view.

"Breathe for me," Spike´s voice ordered. "Slow, deep breaths."

I didn´t want to obey him, I didn´t, but I didn´t want to pass out either. The first shuddering breath filled my lungs and I slowly released it. I counted them, slow and steady up to thirty. I was still shaking when Spike released me, turning me around to face him. Spike lifted my chin, but I refused to look in his eyes.

"Better?" He asked; I nodded. "What happened?"

"Nothing," I said, still shaking as I stood there.

"Pet, I asked a question, answer it," Spike commanded.

I wrapped my arms around myself again and stared at his feet, tears burned my eyes. I felt so alone.

"When you…when you treat me like you did during dinner…it makes me forget that you´re not my friend," I whispered.

Spike stepped forward, his legs moving into view. I flinched when he rested his hands on my shoulders.

"Look at me," Spike said. I shook my head; I wasn´t ready yet to look at him. He let me have that small victory, since he didn´t force me to raise my eyes to his. "I know you believe that," he said, then brushed a hand over my shirt, right where the scars of his bite circled my nipple. "You don´t yet understand this, the significance, but you will. This mark means that I am more than your friend. It makes me your protector, master, and lover as well. You are my responsibility. I take that seriously. Do you understand?"

"What the hell do you want from me?" I asked hoarsely, not liking the desperation that threaded through my words.

"Obedience, loyalty, love," Spike said. "All that and more." My eyes shot up to meet his gaze at that. He couldn´t be serious. Spike´s blue eyes met mine calmly; a hand lifted to brush the hair from the side of my face.

"You´re serious," I said incredulously. Spike laughed. It was a rich, melodious sound. He threw his arm over my shoulder and pulled me into his side.

"C´mon, we´ll go for a walk. You´ll think much clearer and it´ll work off some of that meal," Spike said, pulling me along with him for a short distance before giving me my freedom. I walked beside him now, and he didn´t seem to take offense. I couldn´t help but cast wondering looks at Spike as we walked.

"You gonna keep giving me funny looks all night?" He asked and before I said something he added. "And you can answer that."

"Probably, and more than just tonight," I replied.

"Really that surprising?"

"Um, yes," I said.

"Have I taken good care of you?"

"I guess, I mean you give me what I need, food and stuff," I said.

"But?" Spike asked.

"I don´t like being afraid," I said. "You…you scare me sometimes."

"I would never harm you," Spike looked at me and I snorted, turning away from the sincerity in his eyes.

"What?"

"You say that, but you bit me, that hurt, oh and then you bit me again. Yeah, that hurt too and….and….you spanked me, Spike!"

I paused and eyed him up arrogantly. It probably would´ve looked more intimidating if I weren´t blushing. At least I knew that he couldn´t get out of this, because everything I said was true. Spike stopped walking, and stood in front of me. He ran his finger down the side of my face.

"Never said I wouldn´t hurt you. I have a feeling you´ll have your hide tanned more ´n you´d like while you´re learning what´s expected of you, but there´s a world of difference between hurt and harm, Pet."

"But–" I started to protest.

"Relax, behave and you have nothing to fear. I´m still hoping you´ll have fun with me tonight." Spike resumed walking and I fell in step beside him. "I have something special planned," Spike said.

"Still a surprise?"

"Yeah, not telling. Like keeping you in suspense."

We´d barely walked a few more steps when a woman, stumbled near me. I reached out to steady her. She looked up at me and smiled coyly, resting her hand against my arm. I blushed when her eyes flickered to the heaviness at my groin.

"Vous semblez avoir besoin de compagnie ce soir," she whispered seductively, leaning in close. At least, it sounded that way to me but then again she was speaking French. Didn´t it all sound like that?

"Sorry, I uh, don´t speak French."

I stared at Spike helplessly. In an instant, she´d been pulled away, the minion maintaining a tight grip on her. The woman became indignant; I could tell this by the tone of her voice. He said something to her which made her smile and run a finger along his arm. He started to lead her away. I grasped frantically for Spike´s hand, not even waiting for permission before I spoke.

"Spike he´s not going to…" My voice faded away when I realized that he was. "Please," I whispered, I didn´t want her to die.

"She´s just a prostitute Pet," Spike said. "Ran rampant during this time. This might be better for her."

"Please," I asked again. Spike said something to the minion. He stopped moving but didn´t leave the woman´s side. I looked at her with a new understanding, in light of her occupation. She looked worn, older than she was I´m sure. She looked back towards us, inquisitively. Maybe Spike was right, maybe she´d be better off dead, but I couldn´t let it happen. Spike stepped up behind me.

"What do I get Pet," Spike whispered against my ear. "If I stop his sport."

Sport he called it, as if brutally murdering a woman were no different from a game of bowling. I swallowed thickly.

"What…what do you want?" I asked, my voice thick with fear.

"Already told you what I want Pet," Spike said. "Asked what I was gonna get."

Oh god. Oh god. This was not good. I looked at the woman. I was sure she could sense that more was going on here than met the eye. What could I possibly offer Spike?

"Do this for me and it will get you one step closer to what you want," I finally said. I tensed when Spike didn´t say anything, wondering if that twisted logic would work. Spike chuckled behind me and with a word, the minion left the woman and walked back toward us. My muscles melted with relief.

"Always the white knight, eh Pet," Spike said softly once we´d started walking again.

There wasn´t much I could say to that.

"Come on," Spike said. "Don´t want to be late."

I glanced up at him and saw that our carriage was waiting about half a block up. A few minutes later we were there. Spike got in first then helped me inside, he settled down next to me on the cushioned seat. If I didn´t know any better I´d say Spike was excited. He kept looking at me. There was a glimmer in his blue eyes and occasionally his lips curled upwards slightly. I wondered where the hell he was taking me.

I couldn´t believe it. I could see the anticipation on Spike´s face and I felt terrible. I hated his surprise.

Spike held a hand to help me from the carriage but my horrified stare was glued to the posters pasted to nearby stands. I brushed my hand against the back of his hand then quickly drew away. Spike stared at me quizzically, when I didn´t take his hand.

"Pet?" He asked.

"I´ve had enough fun for one night," I said meekly, sinking further into the cushions of the carriage. "Let´s just go back."

"What´s wrong?" Spike asked, frowning at me. "You don´t like the Circus."

"No, it´s not that it´s, I…nevermind," I gritted my teeth, not wanting to admit my childish fears to Spike. "The Circus is great. Everyone loves the Circus, right?"

I stood up and moved toward the door. I gave Spike my hand this time and he helped me down. Every muscle was tense and I was overly aware of the noise and bustle around me. Apparently, everyone here did love the Circus, if the crowd was any way to judge. A domed white building rose up from the milling patrons like a giant mushroom, the name Cirque d´Hiver proudly displayed in flowing script over a row of doors. At least the clown posters weren´t visible anymore from within the throngs of people. Someone jostled me and I swear I heard a cackling laugh from nearby. I jumped; my fingers dug into Spike´s forearm.

"Too many people?" Spike asked.

"No," I gasped truthfully, then realized I let the perfect excuse slip from my grasp. Damn.

Spike was obviously a privileged vampire. We quickly made it inside and followed a well–dressed man through the throngs of people He paused at a row of seats closest to what could only be called center stage I supposed. I noted that there was only a central ring and sawdust was piled thickly over the floor. It was obscenely loud in here and I could only assume that the acoustics weren´t a consideration when it had been built. The gentleman bowed with a flourish, ushering Spike and I to our seats. We were subject to many envious glances and I assumed our seats were something of a coup at this event. If only I could trade for a seat as far away as possible. Outside sounded pretty good to me.

"What´s wrong?" Spike asked, his hand reached out and gripped the back of my neck. I didn´t look at him even when his touch demanded my eyes meet his. "You reek of fear and have since the moment we arrived. Tell me what´s wrong."

I shrugged, moving his grip with my body.

"Nothing," I replied. I´d never been much of an actor and should´ve realized that Spike wasn´t going to ignore my anxiety. His hand slipped down to my shoulder.

"Pet," Spike sighed, dropping his hand away. I felt him turn to look at me more fully. "I really–"

I frowned when a sharp tap jogged against my other shoulder. I scowled but was actually thankful for the interruption. I didn´t want to listen to Spike lecture me again. I spun around and felt all the air rush from my lungs. My mind ran away and all I knew was fear and fight. I screamed once then threw a right hook at the bloodless face that stared back at me, a horrifying grin stretching across its inhuman features. The figure keeled over. I shook my hand, trying to ease the pain of the punch from my fist.

"Bloody hell!" I heard Spike shout as he pushed past me, the people around us shouting as well. "What´d you do that for?"

Spike was the only person I understood, but I´m betting that everyone else was saying something similar. I wasn´t paying him any attention. My eyes were fixed warily on the clown; bright red blood ran from his nose, marring the sickly paleness that had been painted over his face. At least if he went for Spike, it would give me time to make a run for it. I shivered sneaking my eyes around in trepidation, expecting another attack. All I saw were strangers giving me curious looks. I tried to ignore them. I heard Spike talking and a few people nearby laughed a bit and one of the minions nodded at Spike before helping the injured clown away.

Sweat beaded on my upper lip and I couldn´t stop staring at where the clown had just been. "Just a clown, no big deal," I muttered to myself, "just a stupid clown." Spike turned around, his hands gently pushed me back down into my seat. Spike sat next to me; I was still shaking.

"You should´ve just told me you were afraid of clowns. I could´ve made sure we avoided them."

I looked over at Spike sharply.

"I´m not afraid of clowns," I replied.

"Pet," Spike rolled his eyes at me.

"I´m not," I repeated firmly, then gave him a shaky smile. "Blind terror now there´s a more accurate description."

Spike chuckled lightly and for an instant it struck me how much happier he seemed here than he ever had in Sunnydale. Unafraid to show what he was feeling.

"So why are you terrified of clowns?" Spike asked. "What happened?"

"Can we just pretend they don´t exist?" I asked with a shiver. I ran my clammy palms over the thighs of my trousers then realized that for the first time that evening my libido had cooled. I was no longer sporting wood. I guess a strong dose of fear would do that to a guy. I swallowed, wondering if Spike noticed.

"Sure thing, Pet," Spike said and I was glad he was willing to let the clown thing go. After a brief pause he continued. "You do realize that they´re just glorified pooper scoopers, though, don´t you?"

"Huh?" I was dumbfounded. "What?"

"Clowns," Spike said, then pointed toward the ring. "They were actually just the people that went around picking up after the animals. They only started to become part of the act later," Spike clarified when he saw the confused look on my face. "You know, like the guy you socked."

"Thanks but pooper scooper or not, I still don´t like ´em."

"S´okay," Spike said, his hand squeezing mine as it rested against my thigh. "We won´t see anymore I promise."

Sometime, while I watched the circus, I grew hard again. Thankfully, it wasn´t the excruciating hardness of earlier. I was aroused, but it was bearable. Except for the clown incident, the circus was fun. I was surprised to find that even these earliest circuses had exotic animals such as lions, tigers, and elephants; I hadn´t expected that. I was amazed and the acts were nothing to sneeze at either. There were a lot of stunts on horseback, including the classic ballerina rider and acrobats performed as well. I admit, I was enchanted. It was so cool to watch and the few times the clowns came out, Spike warned me and I people watched until he let me know when they had left the ring again. I was surprised that no clowns frolicked about on the sidelines, while the other acts performed and idly wondered if that were Spike´s doing. I suspected that it might be.

When the show ended Spike and I were once again led through the masses of people to where our carriage waited curbside. The minions stood nearby and one hurried to open the door. Spike leapt inside then helped me up as well. I had barely settled onto the cushion when the horses jostled us forward, onto the street.

Within minutes we had left behind the rumbling crowds that surrounded the Cirque d´Hiver. I breathed deeply; the pull of the horses created a crisp breeze that stirred my longish hair and brought a cold flush to my nose and cheeks. I glanced over at Spike; he blatantly stared at me.

"Cold?" He asked.

"Yeah," I answered truthfully. "But it feels good. Alive, ya know."

Spike just nodded at me. I shifted beneath the pressure of his stare then decidedly ignored him. I breathed deeply, drawing the chill air into my lungs, realizing that the odor no longer bothered me. I closed my eyes and rested my head against the back of the carriage. The rhythmic rocking of the carriage soothed me but a discontent sound escaped at the thought of going back to the small chamber that had become my prison since I´d woken up here. My eyes flew open and I jumped at the feel of a hand on my thigh.

"Wha–what are you doing?" I asked in a harsh whisper, trying to pull away as Spike´s hand curled around the inner curve of my thigh.

A perplexed expression crossed Spike´s features before he frowned at me.

"Whatever I want, Pet."

I tensed my leg beneath his grip then glanced around frantically when he wouldn´t let go before looking at him again. His hand didn´t move but he stared at me intently.

"But…but we´ll be seen," I said.

"A small lesson, Pet," Spike said. I relaxed when his hand lifted from my thigh. Only to tense again when he rested it over my chest. "What is this?"

"Uh, my chest?" I said lightly, even though I already knew what he meant. A low growl quickly changed my answer. "It´s your mark, okay. I know that."

"What does it mean?"

"I´m your Pet," I shrugged. I knew what Spike wanted to hear.

"What does that mean?"

"Uh, that I, uh, belong to you."

I´d said it often enough, I supposed.

"So Pet," Spike said. "Based on that, do you really have any say if I want to touch what´s mine?"

I inhaled sharply as both his hands moved to cover my inner thighs, so close the tips of his fingers brushed my groin.

"I…no."

My voice strangled on that answer but it was true. Spike had a powerful hold over me here; I hung my head as shame engulfed me once more.

"Spread your legs," Spike commanded and though my skin flushed deeply with embarrassment I barely hesitated before obeying his order. As soon as I had one of Spike´s hands delved under the vee of my crotch, his fingers splayed out beneath my ass, a thumb pressed against my testicles. His other hand palmed my partial erection. Spike gently brought me to full arousal and now my face was flushed for a completely different reason. I shivered when he finally pulled away, unable to look at him.

"Still cold?" He asked smugly.

"No," I whispered hoarsely just as the carriage shuddered to a halt. I looked up expecting to see the mansion, knowing that I would soon be naked and relegated to my room within. Instead, we were simply at what appeared to be a broad intersection of roads. I heard the shuffle and hum of people walking and talking on the nearby sidewalks. The minion moved to open the door.

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