Author’s Notes:-
DISCLAIMER:- I own nothing of BTVS it all belongs to Mutant Enemy and the God Joss, however I do like to take some of his babies out for a walk and show them some new sights. This story is not for profit but for enjoyment only. For this fiction I receive nothing but the delight of walking the halls with a few of my heroes.


Hi Folks. My story is set in the English Regency era with the date about 1815. The story revolves around the son of a penniless Duke (William a.k.a. Spike) and a rich debutante who is also the daughter of a Duke (Elizabeth a.k.a. Buffy). Elizabeth is of a mind to marry for love and William is just as sure that he needs to marry for money. William is determined to hold on to his mistress of 10 years, Lady Drusilla Angelus, and although attracted to his intended he is sure he can love only Drusilla. Will Buffy remove Spike from Drusilla’s clutches or will he return again to the arms of his Dark Princess.


This is my first attempt at a fanfic and I would be grateful for any constructive comments. There will be some Spike/Drusilla but this is necessary for the story.

This story will be very NC-17 from early in the story. IF YOU ARE NOT OF AGE PLEASE DO NOT READ.
Chapter 1 - Introductions.


Wondering why she was going through this masquerade was not a new sensation. Each night she dutifully put on her debutante persona without the benefit of the excitement that going to a ball held for young woman of The Ton. An heiress with a dowry of ten thousand a year should find herself a husband easily, but how could she live with a man who would not love her for herself. He would only want what she could hand over at the marriage ceremony to wit money, land and a body.


Lady Elizabeth Ann Summers, daughter of the Duke of Craven stared at her reflection in the mirror. She looked at her elaborate hairstyle of blond curls set high on her head threaded with the Craven diamonds and wondered why her parents felt they had to advertise their wealth. Her gown of the palest rose satin overlaid with silver gauze seemed to meld to her body displaying her youthful figure. Pink satin dancing slippers covered her silk-stockinged feet which peeped coquettishly from the bottom of her gown yet still she did not feel beautiful. Elizabeth turned her body to the left and then to the right to check on her appearance and with the wilfulness of her disposition stuck her tongue out at her reflection.


“I do not wish to leave my room tonight” she told her reflection gloomily, “I don’t want to dance with old men who only want to paw at me and stare down my dress”


A knock on her bedchamber door brought back from her musings as she called for her maid to enter.


Willow, her young red-headed abigail, entered Elizabeth’s bed-chamber with a look of awe for her mistress. It never ceased to amaze Willow that her mistress did not appear to realise how beautiful she was. Elizabeth always appeared to be staring at herself, not in vanity, but as if she only saw flaws. Silently sighing to herself Willow asked her mistress if she required any further assistance in getting ready for the ball.


“No thank you Willow, I think that there is nothing more to be done to me this evening” Elizabeth sighed. The young abigail again wondered why her mistress appeared to be sad but she dared not ask.


Willow moved towards the large four-poster bed that dominated the room and lifted the rose pink gossamer lace shawl which accompanied the dress and laid it around her mistress’s shoulders.


“There now miss, all ready?”


“I suppose I am Willow. Do you know if father has invited anyone to join us this evening?” Elizabeth asked with some trepidation. Her father had lately taken up the habit of inviting ‘suitable parti’ to join their sojourns of an evening hoping she would deign to show an interest in marriage. It had become a troublesome habit of his that she wished he would break. All the ‘suitable parti’ were nearer to her father’s age than her own tender eighteen and they all leered at her with their thoughts clearly written on their dissipated features. She hated their knowing looks and their cloying hands and their ideas on fashionable clothing. They usually stank of brandy or port and all had an air of desperation in trying to impress her with their so-called charm.


Each night held the same pattern. Join her father in the Library, meet the ‘suitable parti’, fight them off for the evening and come home with her father alone while said ‘suitable parti’ took themselves off to either their club or their mistress. God she hated the London Season.


Stealing herself together Elizabeth made for the door of her bed-chamber.


“Miss?” Willow shyly asked.


“Yes Willow” Elizabeth replied as she once again turned back into the room.


“His Grace has someone with him in the Library, miss, whom I have not seen before”


“Usually I have never met them before either Willow however after an evening in my most gracious company none return for the pleasure” Elizabeth smiled to herself at this thought. She had over the few months of the season perfected many ways of discouraging her future husbands. Her methods ranged from perfecting a crowing laugh to the absolute no-no of talking with her mouth full of lobster patty while addressing her companion.


Willow looked at her mistress and saw a gleam of pleasure cross her face. Smiling to herself she wondered how Lady Elizabeth would act with this companion this evening. Willow had intended to inform her mistress of the sheer piece of male perfection awaiting her in the Library and with a devilment she did not know she possessed turned to her mistress and smiled shyly. No, Willow thought, let the Lady Elizabeth make up her own mind.


Elizabeth turned once again for the door and looking back at her abigail informed her that she need not wait up this evening as she would be quite able to see herself to bed this evening.


“Yes miss” replied Willow. “I will leave a kettle on the hearth for you so that you have warm water to refresh yourself when you come home”


“Thank you Willow” Elizabeth smiled. “What would I do without you?” Lifting her head high like the aristocrat she was born to be Elizabeth made her way down the long curving staircase towards her father’s library.


She stood for a few seconds outside the door composing her features to be as unattractive as possible in readiness for the ‘suitable parti’ she would meet this evening. Inside her stomach was turning somersaults as she knew that she had to keep up the charade for an entire evening. Goodness, it was far too exhausting.


Elizabeth opened the door to the library with a flourish ready to “La” and “Lud” her way through another boring ball. She strode in like fisherman’s whore making sure she walked without any inherent grace to which she had been born.


Her eyes immediately went to her father’s face as she cried “Father, are we ready to leave yet? I am so in the mood to dance with every beau who asks me” Elizabeth finished off her announcement by trilling her ‘annoying’ laugh that she had perfected knowing that this would annoy both her father and her ‘suitable parti’.


Watching her beloved father grimace in his chair by the fire did not bring her pleasure but she had to keep up this charade or he would marry her off to the first old rake who asked for her hand. Acting the way she did ensured that she kept her un-married status. Elizabeth was determined she would marry for love alone, not money or title.


Suddenly the air in the room seemed to become charged with something she did not understand. She felt the hairs on her arms stand up and the smell of sandalwood and citrus washed over her. Alarmed she started to look around the room for her father’s guest and once her head turned to the left her eyes beheld a vision like she never seen before. Her mouth gaped open and she took a small step back as her eyes looked up towards the most beautiful blue eyes she had ever seen in a man.


“Hello Pet” the vision mouthed with the most wonderful voice she had ever heard.


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Chapter 2 – Contact


Elizabeth did not notice her father rise from his chair. Her eyes had moved from the stranger’s blue orbs to his mobile mouth as he spoke to her. On the way she noticed his chiselled cheekbones and his silver blonde hair held rigid with pomade. His face, she realised, was the most handsome she had ever seen.

“Buffy my love” her father interjected. “I would like to introduce Lord William Whitmore, son of the Duke of Annandale.” Her father turned to Lord William and with a small smile hovering on his lips at his daughter’s obvious attraction to the son of one of his friends and completed the introduction “Lord William, may I present my eldest daughter Lady Elizabeth Ann Summers”.

William walked slowly forward to the Lady Elizabeth and lifted her kid gloved hand. Holding her eyes with hers he brought her trembling fingers towards his lips and placed a chaste kiss on the knuckle. My God but she is beautiful was the thought that came to his mind. He wanted to hold her hand just a little longer but he knew he may frighten her with his boldness. Ocean blue eyes stared down into green and he watched her pupils dilate and noted an increase in her pulse. A visit to his mistress Drusilla may be required by the end of this evening he thought.

Lord William Whitmore had not wished to accompany the un-married eldest daughter of his father’s friend to a ball. His Grace, the Duke of Annandale, had taken him aside the previous evening and warned him that he was tired of continually paying for his wayward son’s wild ways, especially in the upkeep of his mistress. He had warned him that at the age of nine and twenty it was time to settle down and start his nursery. If William wanted to keep on the crazy Drusilla then that was his decision to make but his Grace wanted heirs before he died. As William was an only son it was his duty to provide them.

“Take a look at the chit Will” his father had advised. “I hear she is quite pretty and at only eighteen she will be malleable enough to do your bidding. Get your heir on her and go back to the mad trollop if you wish. You can always leave your wife at the estates in the north while you spend her dowry on your other pursuits. But mark my words, the Dukedom requires heirs and I want grandchildren soon.”

William had argued at length with his father over this issue. He was not ready to settle down. He was but nine and twenty and he believed that marriage should be for love. His love was Lady Drusilla Angelus, the bored and sensual wife of Lord Liam Angelus who spent his time on his Irish estates leaving William and Drusilla free to pursue their affair.

He had been enamoured of his Dark Princess since he was nineteen years old. They had met through the friends of his first love Cecily who had rejected him harshly. At his tender age he had not taken this well and Drusilla had comforted him. She had also introduced him into such sinful ways that he was sure that only she could satisfy his wants. Together they were wicked, debauched and totally in tune with each others needs. Needs he was sure no gentle daughter of a Duke would allow or encourage.

Lately though Drusilla had taken a penchant for causing scenes and pulling at her hair. At first William had thought her behaviour charming as this usually was the prelude to some of the best sex William had ever experienced. His ripe wicked plum knew more tricks than a Covent Garden whore and she could use her body in so many ways to please him. He only had to think of her beautiful red painted lips around his cock to get hard. They had been together for ten years and he still was not bored of her charms. He doubted he ever would be.

However William knew that his father was correct. He would never be able to marry his dark princess so it was time to look around at the bounty on offer. Although he loved Drusilla with all his being he was a man who still took his pleasure where he could. If a coquettish Miss took his fancy he would seduce and conquer. Drusilla did not mind as long as he always came back to her. In fact there were times when she would join in which only added to his pleasure.

It was with his father’s warning ringing in his head that William had allowed himself to be in this situation. He also knew that a dowry of ten thousand a year was not to be turned down. The Annandale estates needed the money this chit would bring and looking down again into her fathomless green eyes he knew that getting an heir out of her would not be hardship, in fact it would be a pleasure.

Smiling down at what William decided would be his future wife he decided that he would display all his charm. He lifted her hand once more and enfolded it around his arm he turned to Henry Summers and declared that he was looking forward to an evening in the company of himself and his beautiful daughter.

Elizabeth stared at the vision that moved to her side ready to take his leave with her. She stared down at her arm linked with his and wondered where her wits had gone. Handsome he may be but a sense of being pushed down a road she did not wish to travel came over her. When he had kissed her fingers she had felt a tightness in her breast that she had never felt before and she was sure they had swelled in size. His clean male scent washed over her and she suddenly felt weak in the knees. The thought immediately came into her head as to why her father had been forcing her into the company of old roués then this man was available. Suspicious thought came to her mind immediately. She decided she would play the aristocratic damsel to this prince and see where this was leading.

His Grace, Lady Elizabeth and Lord William made their way through the large oak door that was the entrance to the Craven town house in Berkley Square. They descended the stone steps toward the ducal carriage and Elizabeth suddenly realised that she had not spoken a word to the man who held her arm in his. She could think of nothing to say. All she wanted to do was stare at him take in his handsome face.

Once alighted in the carriage Elizabeth decided that she must make conversation with the Adonis opposite her.

“My Lord” she stated. William looked directly into her eyes.

“Yes my Lady Elizabeth?”

“My Lord” Elizabeth started again. “Thank you for accompanying us this evening, and I would like to apologise for my lack of manners when we were introduced.”

William continued to look Elizabeth in the eye and was pleased to see her blush prettily. He suddenly wondered if she would blush all over when he took her to bed. He could imagine watching her eyes grow dark with passion as he stroked her with his hands and tongue. She would taste as good as she looked, he knew, like lemon ice. His mouth watered at the thought and he could feel his cock start to twitch. Rigid self control was required at this moment to stop the rise of his manhood and he quickly dampened his thoughts. His eyes strayed to her mouth and he realised she was addressing him again.

“My Lord, I am wondering why we have never met before tonight considering how long we have been in London”

William was prepared for this. He had chosen his answer well.

“I have just lately come to London Lady Elizabeth. I have lately been in Annandale with my father who is not in the best of health”

He could not tell her that when in London he did not frequent balls and routs and Almacks. When in London, he frequented gaming hells and clubs where he and his dark princess could take their delights without gossip and scandal. He spent his time in London between his love’s thighs and enjoyed every moment. When not between his love’s thighs he was between the thighs of whatever doxy he could find. Such pleasures were not found in the drawing rooms of the Ton or in the hallowed halls of Almacks.

Elizabeth accepted his answer with grace. She loved her father very much and knew that should he be ailing she would run to his side. Elizabeth smiled at her companion showing for him for the first time how her smile lit her whole face. Elizabeth was not just pretty she was beautiful.

William was slightly taken aback by the feelings her wonderful smile invoked within him. He shifted slightly on the seat as once again his cock came out to play. I will have this chit if it is the last thing I do was his thought as the carriage started to slow down at the entrance to the Assembly Rooms where the evening musicale was to be held.

Chapter 3 – Learning the truth


Never straying from her side William procured Elizabeth and her father seats. As he moved away to get some lemonade, Elizabeth began to hear strange mutterings around her.

“What in God’s name brings Whitmore to a gathering like this” one be-jewelled matron inquired of her friend.

“One can only surmise” her friend replied. “The Annandale coffers are running low, or so I’ve heard and the old Duke is forcing the lad into the parson’s mouse-trap.”

“God help the chit that takes that one on.” the matron answered “I know he is still with the Angelus bitch and that is an affair that will not stop overnight, why they have been together years”

Elizabeth listened to this exchange with a growing sense of outrage. She had been set up as the cash cow to a failing dukedom and brood mare to a rake. Anger washed through her as she realised that she had almost fell for it. She had felt an attraction to a handsome man and was thinking of matrimony for the first time since making her debut. She turned to her father sitting next to her ready to rail at him for the embarrassment she was feeling when she realised that he was busily talking to an old friend and had not heard the gossip. Anger quickly turned to revenge and in the space of a moment Elizabeth knew exactly what she would do. She would make this rake fall in love with her, give up his mistress of years for her and then she would jilt him.

Plans were forming in her head on how this would be done when William returned with the lemonade. He hated the stuff preferring good malt whisky as his usual drink but he had to be on his best behaviour at the moment. Getting Elizabeth to fall in love with him was his first priority. Once he married her had got his heir he could return to the hells he knew. If she was in love with him it would make his return to London much easier. He was ready, he told himself, for an affable wife. He smiled at the thought.

Eyeing her escort slyly, Elizabeth caught his smile. Yes, she thought, he thinks I will be easy to control. He thinks he can make me fall in love with him because of his charm and wit. Oh how I will enjoy this game because I shall win.

Both William and Elizabeth were glad when the evening came to an end. William had heard snippets of gossip about himself and his dark princess and prayed that none had come to Elizabeth’s ears. He did not want anything to come between himself and Elizabeth during his courtship. He must make sure the chit fell in love as soon as possible so that he could marry her and be done with it. It would start tonight.

Elizabeth decided that she would start on her plan this very evening. She would flirt with William and use the charms that few knew she possessed. She had watched many other women use their charms to bring men to them while she had attended balls. Jealous of how these women always caught the attention of the most handsome men in a room while she and the other debutantes had been left with the old roués had fascinated her. Alone in her room she had practiced the languid smiles and the special looks used by these women in her mirror when alone. Tonight will be the first time she would practice her techniques.

Once home in Berkley Square, his grace invited William in for a night cap. Normally he would have refused but he wanted to be in Elizabeth’s presence for a little longer. Some mild flirtation was called for to ensure the chit dreamed of him. Maybe he would offer to take her out in his curricle tomorrow afternoon. A turn around Hyde Park during the afternoon parade would ensure that the Ton knew he was making a claim. And claim her he would.

William had no idea that Elizabeth was on to his plan. She started to climb the stairs towards her bed-chamber when her father called her back as she knew he would. Elizabeth tried to keep the smile from her lips as she turned to enquire after her father’s wishes and was again taken aback at how handsome Lord William really was. Standing next to her father in his black superfine coat and his buff breeches he was every inch a man. She almost succumbed to his looks and charisma until she remembered why he was standing in her hallway.

Turning on her largest smile which she knew showed her white teeth to perfection she strolled elegantly down the stairs. Elizabeth made sure her hips swayed slightly as she descended and smiled secretly to herself as she kept eye contact with William all the while. She watched fascinated as a flush appeared over his chiselled features and for the first time in her life Elizabeth felt the power of her own femininity.

“Papa?” she enquired in an even voice as she approached her beloved father.

“Join William and I in the library my sweet before retiring.” her father smiled warmly at his daughter.

Looking between the two young people in his hall he realised that he would have to ensure that they spent as much time together as possible. He was in favour of this match as was the Duke of Annandale. Both men knew in their hearts that William and Elizabeth were made for each other. Craven knew that Elizabeth would soon rout the Angelus woman once she knew of her existence, which would be soon considering the ton gossips and their ways. Craven was determined their courtship start tonight.

“You have not had much chance to speak to each other this evening for that infernal caterwauling that they call music these days”

The invitation, though not expected, was welcomed by Elizabeth. Her father was obviously trying to make a match and it was time to start the game.

Chapter 4 – Time for play


His grace pulled the bell by the mantel to summon his butler Giles.

“Ah Giles” his grace smiled on the older man “Be so good as to make up the fire in here and summon some tea and cake for Lady Elizabeth. Lord William and I will be fine with the brandy”

Giles who had been with the family for many years knew his duty. He also looked upon the young Miss Elizabeth like a daughter and would do anything for her. So much so that he was in league with his grace to try and bring this union about. He and the duke had already worked on a plan on how to leave them alone in the library for a while and let nature take its course.

Craven was banking on William’s reputation with seduction to get the ball rolling, he was sure the young pup would use time alone to make Elizabeth enamoured with him. While bending to heap more coals on the fire the elderly butler and the duke exchanged a glance of understanding between them. With an almost imperceptible nod to his employer, Giles stood and left the room to see to the refreshments.

Waiting for Giles to return with the tea and cake meant that for the first time that evening conversation was required. The duke decided to himself that he would try to act as a deaf and dumb chaperone and subsequently buried his head inside his paper. William decided that he would start the conversation by enquiring of how his wife to be enjoyed her evening.

“Well Lady Elizabeth did you enjoy the performance this evening? I myself so seldom attend musicales as I find my taste in music does not always run in the same vein as Assembly Room concerts allow”.

Elizabeth started at him for a few seconds again lulled by his wonderful voice. Giving herself a mental shake she realised that some answer was required.

“I enjoyed it very much my Lord, but I must admit that I too have more modern tastes in music. I find I prefer much livelier music especially when I dance. I do so love to dance my Lord; do you take pleasure in that form of entertainment?”

As an opening gambit it was as good as any she thought. Watching his face carefully as he formulated his reply she noticed a slight flush again appeared on his cheekbones.

William started at her for a few seconds before replying. He knew exactly how well they would dance together if he ever pried apart those dimpled knees. He would dance with her till she screamed his name.

“I enjoy dancing very much my Lady; in fact I am known throughout the ton for how well I dance.” Smiling at Elizabeth after checking the duke was still engrossed in his paper; William gave his wife to be a slow wink.

Elizabeth could not help the blush that covered her face as she knew exactly what he was implying. Although she did not know all the details of what went on between a man and a woman she understood his meaning well enough.

A knock at the library door heralded the return of Giles with the tea and cake. William and the duke had long since opened the brandy and both had sipped from their large balloon glasses savouring the flavour after an evening of lemonade.

Giles placed the tea tray on the occasional table nearest Elizabeth and drawing himself to his full height addressed the duke.

“Your grace I wonder if you could accompany me to the kitchen. It would appear that we have a situation that may require your attention”

“It must be of some magnitude if you cannot deal with it Giles” his grace raised an eyebrow at his butler

Managing to keep his face a picture of dignity Giles replied “Indeed your grace, the matter is of some urgency”

Waiting a few seconds in order to look as though he was making a decision, Craven slowly rose from his chair by the fire and walked through the library door followed by Giles.

As the door closed both William and Elizabeth knew that their game could begin in earnest.

William rose from his chair and walked calmly over to sit next to Elizabeth on the chaise lounge. Reaching for her hands he took them into his own.

“Elizabeth, I did not have the chance to tell you how beautiful you looked this evening”

Elizabeth smiled to herself at the compliment. This is just too easy she thought.

“Why thank you my Lord; I must say that I have not had the pleasure of the company of so handsome a gentlemen” Elizabeth looked him in the eye and made herself smile shyly at him. She carefully lowered her eyes and after a few moments looked up into his face once again. Remembering her practiced moves she quickly darted out her pink tongue and moistened her lips.

She caught the flare in his eyes and almost laughed at his reaction. Who would believe that batting your eyes and moistening your lips could make a man want you? Suddenly remembering that he did not want her he wanted her dowry caused a slight frown to appear and without her realising it she gripped his hands tighter.

William was quick to notice the change in her. Still entranced by the pink darting tongue he had already imagined it poking out of her shell of a mouth as she licked and sucked his balls. His erection was almost immediate. He started to imagine all the things he could teach her. All the ways to give him pleasure. He needed to see Dru soon to relieve the ache that this little blonde virgin stirred in him.

Elizabeth again noticed his intent look and correctly interpreted that she was doing something right. Time for my next move she thought and wondered at her own boldness.

“My Lord” she looked shyly at him using her lashes wisely “Would you do something for me?”

William looked down at the small eager face before him and wondered why he would do almost anything she asked.

“Of course Pet. Tell me what you want me to do”

Elizabeth smiled at his endearment and decided to say what she had to say quickly while she still had the courage.

“Would you kiss me?”

William stared at Elizabeth for fully five seconds. His brain still trying to comprehend her shy question and he wondered why he should hesitate. How could he refuse such a request?

“I would very much like to kiss you my little lamb, but first tell me why you ask this of me”

Elizabeth looked at him once more this time deliberately holding his hands tighter. She was glad to feel his own hands tighten around hers and was suddenly conscious of the way he was rubbing his thumbs softly across her knuckles. She could feel a heat build between them and wondered why she suddenly felt that kissing this man would not be a good idea no matter her resolve.

“I have never been kissed before my Lord and I would like very much for you to show me”

William looked down at their joined hands and knew that he would have to take this gently. He realised what he wanted to do was kiss her until she swooned against him. He wanted to taste that little pink darting tongue. He wanted to kiss her everywhere he could.

He looked up from their hands and while looking directly into her eyes he slowly disentangled them. His hands slowly rose to cup her face and he revelled in the softness of the skin of her cheeks. Closing his eyes briefly he allowed the scent of vanilla to wash over him as he lowered his head. He would kiss her chastely this time, no tongue.

Elizabeth watched him in fascination as his head lowered towards her. She watched his tilt his head slightly and felt the pressure of his hands move her head slightly in the opposite direction. Wondering if the sensation would be repugnant considering what she knew of his real intentions she had resolved to put everything she could into the kiss. He had to fall in love with her after all.

William placed a chaste kiss at the corner of her lips. She tasted of vanilla and reminded him of ice cream. He slowly moved his lips to the opposite corner of her mouth and kissed her again. This time she gasped and opened her mouth slightly. That little pink tongue came out again and he knew he had to taste her. Chaste be damned he needed to be inside her mouth.

He started to nibble at her bottom lip until her mouth opened once more. Carefully he placed his lips over hers and started to lick and nibble at her lips until her tongue came out to play. All restraint gone at the first touch of her tongue against his and he thrust his tongue into her mouth.

She opened wider and knew then that she should never have asked this of him. She could feel her breasts starting to swell and her nipples chafed against her chemise. She could feel her sex between her legs start to swell and ache for his touch and she wondered why there was a wetness there.

William needed to feel her against him. Dropping his hands from her face he moved them slowly down her body, slightly brushing the edge of her beasts on their downward journey until they landed at her waist. Never stopping the kiss he lifted her on to his lap.

As he lifted his head for air he wondered why he had never felt like this with just a kiss. He wanted to rip her clothes off there in the library and push himself so far into her that she would scream. Her mouth tasted of strawberries and cream and her little tongue was doing wicked things to him. He had kissed some of the best in his lifetime but nothing prepared him for such an innocent response. Bending her over his arm he started to nibble at her throat and slowly moved his lips to the top of her gown so that he could taste her breast. His erection was once again rampant and he started to undulate against her.

Elizabeth was in another world. As William kissed his way down towards her breast she wanted to rip her own gown from her body to allow him access. She wanted to see his head against her while he took her nipples into her mouth. As these thoughts filtered into her mind William moved his hand from her waist and cupped her breast through her gown. Elizabeth gave an involuntary shudder as she felt his caress. She could not help the way her head fell back over his arm as she wantonly pushed herself closer to his wonderful hand.

“God, do you know what you do to me luv?” William gasped into her ear while nibbling and licking the lobe.

“I want to rip your dress off and suck your sweet little titties till you moan.”

William rubbed her breast slightly harder as he said this and when he found her hard nipples once more he pinched them lightly through her gown. Elizabeth started to shake with sensation.

“You want to know what I would do then Pet?”

Elizabeth nodded blindly not caring anymore. She had never felt like this in her life. This man was making a wanton of her and she welcomed it.

“Then sweetheart I would lift the hem of this pretty pink gown”

William suited action to words and moved his hand to the hem of her gown.

“I would move my hand slowly up your leg. Yes sweetheart open those pretty stockinged legs for me and let me touch you”

Elizabeth could not seem to help herself. She could feel the sensation of his moving his hand slowly up her legs. The feel of the silk against her skin as he rubbed lightly making her shake once more. She could feel her legs opening to welcome him and the sensation of his wonderful lips on her neck and ear making her melt against him.

“That’s it my sweet open up for me. I want to find the slit in your drawers and feel you wetness on my fingers. I want to play with you till you ooze all over my hand then I want to lick it off and taste you. Would you like that kitten?”

Beyond all thought Elizabeth nodded wildly while she opened her legs more. William returned his lips to her mouth and kissed her with abandon as he found the little slit.
Deftly he placed one finger inside to encounter her wet curls. She was soaked and he felt a feeling of euphoria that no one had been there before him. He slowly rubbed the wetness around and around making sure he never hit her clit. Holding her tightly to him while he kissed her and played with her cunny he did everything he could not to rip off his breeches and plunge into there. He slowly moved his hand up towards her protruding nubbin and tapped it gently.

Elizabeth almost fell from his lap at the sensation. She had never experienced anything like this in her life. She wanted him to stop but she also wanted him to never stop.

“Please…..William?” she begged not even knowing what she was begging for.

“What do you want me to do sweetheart? More of this perhaps” he rubbed harder at her clit and watched her come apart in his arms. He smothered her moans with his mouth as he slowly brought her down from her orgasm.

God she is beautiful when she comes he thought. I am the only man that will ever see her like this. An unfamiliar feeling came over him and he wanted to just hold her. He was long and hard against his breeches but knew he could go no further tonight. Looking at her flushed face and glazed eyes brought a satisfaction of its own. He wondered when he became unselfish. He knew he had never left his lovers wanting but he liked to receive his pleasure in return, at this moment it was enough to hold her to him while she calmed and let the sweet scent of her hair calm him.

Both became aware of sounds in the hall outside the library door. Elizabeth sprang from his lap on legs that felt weak and quickly smoothed out her dress. She stared at William as he rearranged his own clothing and suddenly she could not face what she had done. Before anyone said a word she turned quickly from William and ran towards the door of the library. She needed to be alone.

Chapter 5 – Playing on your own

Running out into the hallway was not the way to act if you did not want to draw attention to ones self and Elizabeth was determined to slow down to a walk as soon as the library door had closed.

Encountering her father and Giles in the hallway she bade them good night before slowly climbing the stairs to bed. His grace looked at her retreating back and smiled to himself, he knew his absence had borne fruit.

Opening the library door his grace bellowed across the room “Will, my boy, what you think of my daughter?”

William slowly crossed his legs on the chaise lounge, he knew if he stood Elizabeth’s father would see exactly what he thought of his daughter. Smiling at his grace William slowly lifted hand to his mouth and rubbed his lips looking for the entire world as if he was contemplating the question.

The taste of Elizabeth transferred to his lip and he had to grit his teeth to not lick his lips in front of the chit’s father.

Smiling William replied, “I like her enough to marry her, your grace.” He could not resist darting his tongue out to taste her essence, he almost groaned at the taste.

“I’m sure you do William and although I agree you have to woo her” Craven looked William directly in the eye. “She is not the type to submit easily. I could force her into this marriage but it would not be what I want for her.” The duke slowly sat once again in his chair by the fire and turned to look at William.

“Do you intend to continue to see the Angelus woman while you are married to my daughter boy?”

William winced inwardly at the obvious put-down however he decided in a moment to tell the old man the truth. “All married men have their mistresses your grace” William smiled in reply. “Are you still friendly with Mrs Montgomery?” Letting his grace know that he knew about Catherine Montgomery was a good move he thought. There would be no pot calling the kettle black in this relationship.

Craven smiled slowly at William. “Touché my boy. But I will be making some conditions on this marriage.” William could feel beads of sweat rolling down his spine as he wondered what the old duke was planning. The old man was a wily old fox and not to be crossed.

“My first concern is my Buffy’s happiness.” Seeing William frown at the name. Buffy, his grace explained his pet name for his daughter. “I do not care if you love her or not I only care that she thinks you do.” Straightening further in his chair he looked at William. “I don’t really care if you continue to see the Angelus woman or not but you will ensure that no scandal reaches my daughter’s ears. You will be as discreet as possible with Lady Drusilla and should any word of your relationship become known to my daughter I will personally stop her yearly dowry.” The duke’s eyes turned cold “Buffy must be protected at all costs. Give her children to love and she will be happy. Disgrace her and I will make sure Liam Angelus knows just what his wife is. Do I make myself clear William?”

William stood up quickly and stared down at his Grace, anger making his cheekbones stand out. “If you think me such a libertine why allow me to court you daughter at all”

“Because she needs a husband and you need funds.” Craven replied. “And to be honest boy I think you will suit her well. Your reputation as a lover is legendary and I would like her to know happiness between the sheets rather than an old man’s fumbling.”

Shocked at Elizabeth’s fathers conditions William let his head fall back and laughed.

“You know I won’t give up Drusilla but as long as I give your ‘Buffy’ pleasure you don’t care?” Incredulous that this match would be so easy William continued to laugh. This was a dream come true for both himself and his estates.

William had one question to ask, “What if I give her the children you think she requires and move her to the estate up North and continue my pleasures in London?” He wanted to get a reaction from Craven however the reaction he received was not expected.

“Bed her in London and move her to the estates when she is breeding.” Craven looked directly at William. “I want the whole of London to know she is breeding before you send her away. I will not have the ton speak of her as your absentee wife. A breeding wife is different,” the old man continued “the ton expects a breeding wife to live on estates and not in London.”

Staring open-mouthed as the duke continued “I do expect you to spend at least one month a year with Buffy while she is lodged on your estates. During that month you will give her your full attention and leave the Angelus chit in London.” The duke rose from his chair. “If that condition is not honoured I will carry out my threat to stop her dowry and tell Angelus”

William knew that Craven would carry out his threat, but he really did not care. He had gone without Drusilla’s charms for more than a month before when her errant husband was home from his Irish estate. It would be no problem to poke a chambermaid in the meantime. Craven’s conditions only pertained to Drusilla and he had more than enough to spread around.

“What if she becomes bored and decides to return to London?” William wanted every possibility covered.

“If she gets bored I will send her mother and her sister Lady Dawn for a visit” the duke smiled at William. “That way we will both be in London on our own”

William smiled at the duke. A man after his own heart he thought.

“I accept your conditions your grace,” William smiled at Cravendale “when do you wish the marriage to take place”

The duke smiled “I will put an announcement into The Morning Post and The Times the day after tomorrow. I will ‘persuade’ Buffy that you were so smitten with her beauty that you asked for her hand tonight and I accepted on her behalf.” Looking William directly in the eyes he continued “She will do as she is told and will marry you. I want the ceremony to take place within four weeks.”

Craven walked to the cabinet near the window and poured himself and William another glass of brandy. William drank it back in one gulp, shook his prospective father-in-law’s hand and took his leave.

After the little snog-fest with ‘Buffy’ on the chaise lounge he needed relief. The time had come to tell Dru of his up and coming marriage.

Chapter 6 – Awakenings

A little background to the 18th Century before we go any further.

The Ton – In the early 19th Century this was a euphemism for the top ten thousand Aristocrats in Britain. The Ton held most of the land and almost all of the wealth in the UK and as such these people held positions of real power. They could do no wrong, and amongst the men their crimes were many, including murder. The phrase ‘judged by a jury of my peers’ comes from this time, as a member of the Ton was felt to be so far above your average working man that only their ‘peers’. i.e. fellow members of the titled class, could judge them. It was such a tight community, as they only married into their own class. This meant the whole Ton was related in some way to one another. In 1850 more than 80% of the UK was owned by titled peers; today it is less than 10% and most of that has been turned into public parks to reduce death duties.

Luckily my country has moved on from this type of thinking and a title means very little to most British people. However the Regency period fascinates me and I have done quite a bit of research into the manners and habits of this era, which was why I set my story during that time.

The double standards held by the Ton were, to be honest, disgusting. If a young virginal lady of the Ton was raped, she was ostracised by society as it was felt she had encouraged the man and therefore she had to be a ‘loose’ woman. The man who committed the rape was congratulated for ‘bagging a virgin’ and almost revered. The victim was not supported by her family in these circumstances and was usually tossed into the street to look after themselves in any way they could, which usually meant that they became courtesans or worse. Many simply disappeared and any record of their connection to their illustrious family was eradicated from records.

I feel quite strongly about this which is why I have made Buffy a strong character who will not tolerate a man who wishes to dominate her and take away her spirit.

This story has a long way to go and I hope you enjoyed this little piece of British history, and I hope it explains a lot of the interactions between the main characters.


Please note that any places I describe, such as Vauxhall Gardens or Almacks, can be googled on the net. These places really did exist in the timeframe of this story.


Thanks for your patience.




In her bedchamber Buffy looked at her reflection in the mirror in horror.

Her faced was still flushed and she could still feel a weakness in her legs from the powerful feelings William had managed to tease from her with just his kisses and magic fingers.

And magic fingers they were. She had never felt such pleasure in her life. Her memory replayed his actions over and over in her mind.

Still staring at herself in the mirror Buffy decided it was time to go to bed. She knew she would not be able to sleep immediately but she did feel that she should change for bed.

Removing her jewellery first she carefully placed the items back in her jewel case and carefully locked it.

As she raised her arms to the back of her gown she accidentally brushed her breasts and an involuntary shiver passed over her. Shocked at her own wantonness Buffy opened the fastenings of her gown and let it fall to the floor. Stepping out of her chemise Buffy again stared at her own image in the mirror. She looked down at her protruding nipples which still held the ghost of William’s touch. Her gaze lowered to her drawers and silk stockings and she remembered the feel of the silk against her skin as he had stroked her.

Slowly Buffy removed her stockings and wondered how she could feel herself start to swell once more between her legs just as she done for William.

Removing her drawers last of all Buffy raised her eyes once more to her reflection. She looked at the curls covering her sex in the mirror and was amazed to see them covered with faint dew. Without thinking her hands rose to cover her breasts and she began to stoke them as William had done. Taking the nipples between her fingers Buffy pinched and rolled the pouting rose tipped nubs and was amazed at the feelings she felt throughout her body.

Smiling at her own reflection Buffy slowly moved her hands down toward the shadowy curls between her legs. She opened her legs slightly and began to stroke. Deciding that she could not get the right rhythm in the position she was in she abandoned her reflection and made for the bed.

Diving under the covers naked Buffy marvelled at the feeling of the clean cotton against her sensitised skin. She writhed slightly from side to side enjoying the feeling. She had never slept naked in her life and she decided she liked the freedom that having no night rail around her body afforded.

Again Buffy’s hands rose to her breast and she played with them for some time. She twisted and turned her nipples till she found a pressure that was pleasurable. Without thought her hands moved down between her legs.

Lightly she moved the fingers of one hand up and down her slit. She was amazed at the wetness she found there and her mind replayed the movements William had used.

She continued her explorations aware that her hips were starting to writhe. Her eyes closed and she started to rub harder. Knowing that she was missing something Buffy moved her hand slowly up towards her mound and her fingers brushed over her hard clit.

Her whole body jumped and she knew she had found ‘the special place’. Rubbing the little nub harder and harder Buffy started to feel strange feeling start in her abdomen.

Suddenly her legs started to shake, her toes curled and her upper body lifted from the bed. Stars came to her closed eyes and she continued to rub until she could stand it no longer. Exhausted she collapsed back on the bed.

As she came back down to earth Buffy smiled widely. Now that was worth it, she decided. More of that type of pleasure she would welcome and if William could do that to her every night she may just marry him.

Thoughts of his mistress came to her mind. She had seen Lady Drusilla Angelus on a few occasions accompanied by her handsome husband Lord Liam. If the gossip she had heard this evening was true then William had been her lover for years. Scowling at the sudden bad feelings she felt towards Drusilla for holding the love of William, Buffy gave herself a little mental shake and started to make plans.

If he can pleasure me with his fingers and kisses he can use his ‘thing’ on Drusilla. There was no way she would allow him to put that anywhere near her. She would not play second fiddle to anyone and unless William pledged himself to her forever then he would never share her bed for more than her pleasure alone.

Chapter 7 – Stress relief

William could still not believe his luck. He had met one of the most beautiful women he had ever seen tonight. He had managed to kiss her to within an inch of her life and he had managed to play with one of the sweetest cunnies he had ever encountered.

Sitting back in his carriage with his eyes closed his mind went over again and again what had happened once Buffy had asked, so innocently, for a kiss. He could have had her tonight and he knew it. By God she had been sweet.

He lifted his hand towards his nose and smelled the lingering fragrance of her essence. Deliberately he moved his tongue against each finger in turn and savoured her taste. His eyes rolled back in his head as the flavour hit his tongue. She tasted of lemon, sweet and tart. He would love to worship her cunny with his tongue, but first she would shave her. Smiling at the thought of how turned on she would be once he had completed his task.

William was so lost in the fantasy of shaving Buffy’s pussy that he did not realise that his left hand was slowly rubbing his rock hard cock through the front of his trousers. When he realised what he was doing William knew there was only one place he could go tonight.

Tapping on the roof of the carriage with his cane his footman opened the small flap and received the terse “Lady Drusilla’s John, you know the way”.

“Sir,” John Coachman replied and swiftly turned the carriage towards the Angelus mansion.

John Coachman knew better than stop at the main door and steered the carriage to the side entrance often used by his master. As he stopped John Coachman looked for the small piece of silk attached to the latch, the signal that all was clear for his master to enter. Opening the hatch once more John told his master that the silk was in place.

“I won’t need you again tonight. I will get a hack when I have finished here.” William informed his driver.

Used to his master’s habits John Coachman merely nodded his head and jumped down from the reins to open the door of the carriage and lower the steps.

Climbing from the vehicle William handed his driver a few shillings. “I am in a very good mood this evening John have a few quarts of ale on me and I will see you tomorrow.” William smiled at John “I will need you at two of the clock and I want the bays to look their best, I am going to propose to the Lady Elizabeth tomorrow afternoon”

If John Coachman was surprised at his master’s statement he managed to hide it well. He had been with the family since his Lordship had been in the schoolroom and nothing the young master did held him in surprise. However he knew that his master had powerful feelings for the black hearted bitch that lived beyond the side gate and he secretly hoped he would not be driving up this lane much longer. The Lady Drusilla had a hold on his master that many would like to see broken.

Touching his hat in reverence to his master he thanked him profusely for the money and climbed back into the driving seat as he disappeared through the gate.

Once inside the gate William carefully made his way towards the open window that Drusilla left open for him. Quickly climbing through he made his way to her bed chamber. Lit candles had been left on for him to light his way. He would enjoy his dark princess tonight.

Opening her bed chamber door William stealthily entered. He was still hard just thinking about his encounter with Buffy and he needed relief.

Looking around the dimly lit chamber he saw his princess lying on the bed wearing the flimsiest of night rails. His cock twitched as she languished back against the pillows and looked him straight in the eyes.

“Welcome my dark prince.” She smiled at him showing a row of perfect white teeth. “Why are you so late this evening my love?”

Walking towards the bed William smiled at his love. “I have been busy tonight saving the Whitmore Estates from ruin by sucking up to a duke’s daughter and agreeing to marry her”

Drusilla eyed him warily. She did not love William they way she loved Liam but he kept her happy in bed while Liam was gone and she did not want to lose him.

William saw the suspicion in her eyes and quickly told her of the arrangements that had been made with the duke. Drusilla smiled slowly at him as she realised that she would not lose her lover for more than four weeks in the year and she would ensure that this happened when Liam was home. William could be most annoying when she was spending time with Daddy.

“I have a surprise for you this evening my love” Drusilla smiled at William. “I have bought you a present that we both can enjoy.”

Intrigued William smiled down at the vision on the bed. “First Dru I want a kiss.”

Starting at the bottom of the bed William crawled up to be at his love’s side. Sliding his hand from her cheek to tangle in her hair he brought her up close to him and covered her mouth with his. Drusilla met him kiss for kiss and started to writhe against him. She loved the gentleness of her sweet prince but she preferred the hard bruising loving of Liam.

Slowly Drusilla drew back and smiling sweetly at him she purred “Don’t you want to open your present? Or would you like me to open it for you”

Knowing the pleasure his Ripe Wicked Plum could give with her ‘presents’ William declined the offer ensuring Drusilla would open his gift. He expected a new toy they would try. The cock ring she had given him last week had been one of his favourites so far. He had come so hard when she had finally released him that he had blacked out. Marvellous!

Drusilla clapped her hands twice and a door in the corner of the chamber opened. A female figure dressed on only small pieces of silk walked through. William could see her nipples though the fabric and he was fascinated by the bracelets adorning her small wrists and ankles that jingled as she walked.

Getting up from the bed Drusilla beckoned the woman to her. Head held high the woman stopped in front of Drusilla. “Take off his clothes but do not touch him” she ordered.

“Yes Mistress” the exotic beauty replied with a nod. She glided towards William now lying back on the bed smiling. As she approached he rose and allowed her to walk behind him. He felt her remove his coat and still from behind she worked on his cravat and shirt. When he was naked from the waist up the woman again wound her arms around William and opened the buttons of his breeches allowing his manhood to break free. William stood proudly as she lowered his breeches. Moving around him she bade him with her hand to sit on the bed while she removed his boots and stockings in order to remove his breeches. Once William was completely naked she bowed her head and returned to her mistress.

“Do you want me to unwrap your present now William?” Drusilla smiled.

“In your own time, luv” William whispered.

Drusilla turned the woman to face William. Slowly she pulled away the silk scarves from the woman’s body. As her breasts were revealed Drusilla moved behind her and started to play the woman’s breasts from behind. Looking over the woman’s shoulder Drusilla looked at William and asked him if she was to continue.

William had moved back to the bed and he had started to slowly rub his cock at his love’s display. “Carry on, luv”

Slowly, and with deliberate effort Drusilla removed the rest of the silk from the woman’s body. “Shall I get her to unwrap me my love” she said sweetly.

“That would be nice, pet” smiled William “I would like that”

With a nod to the woman Drusilla stood calmly while the woman undressed her. All the while Drusilla would pet the woman while William continued to stroke his cock.

When both women were naked Drusilla told the woman to lie on her back next to William.

Standing at the bottom of the bed staring at the two naked creatures she would play with tonight Drusilla felt the excitement build inside her.

“Open your legs for your mistress child” Drusilla whispered to the woman.

Without hesitation the woman opened her legs wide and Drusilla climbed on the bed and knelt between them. Drusilla lifted her right hand and moved it slowly towards the woman’s slit. William watched, fascinated, as his dark princess started to rotate her first two fingers slowly around the woman’s hole. He watched as Drusilla’s fingers moved the wetness around and around till the outer lips of the woman’s cunt started to swell and turn a dark pink. Drusilla kept the rhythm going as the woman started to writhe and lift her hips towards the knowing fingers. “Play with her tits William,” she instructed her lover “make her squirm some more”. William did not need to be told twice. Sitting up on the bed he moved his hands to the woman’s breasts and lightly pinched her nipples. “Do you think she needs to be tied up my love?” his dark princess enquired never stopping the ministrations of her hands. Slowly lowering her head Drusilla licked from the bottom to the top of the woman’s pussy.

The woman writhed in ecstasy and this turned William on even more. He stopped playing with her breasts and lifted himself from the bed to find the silk scarves that his mistress liked to use for this type of enjoyment. Once he had several in his hand he moved towards the woman on the bed. Patting Drusilla on the shoulder so that she would stop her exploration of the woman’s pussy with her tongue he invited her to join him in tying her to the bed.

Drusilla and William started with the woman’s wrists. Each took an arm and tied her loosely to the posters at the top of the bed. They each made sure that the bindings were tight enough to keep the woman’s hands in place but not tight enough to wound. Once their task was complete they moved to tie her legs in the same manner. The lovers stood at the bottom of the bed each staring at the glistening wetness spread before them like a feast.

Drusilla pulled William towards her. “Do you want to taste her on my tongue my William” she whispered as she plunged her tongue into his mouth.

Tightly William held on to his dark princess and tasted his present. He undulated against her, his cock desperate for release.

“Oh, my sweet prince,” Drusilla smiled at her lover. “I think we need to use our little friend on you tonight so that we can have ourselves a party.” She looked down at William’s weeping erection and knew that she would need to get rid of that before the cock ring was placed on him. She intended for him to be able to service her many times tonight and maybe the girl as well. Giving him a sultry smile she dropped to her knees and took him into her mouth.

Sensation after sensation ran through William as Drusilla pleasured him with her mouth. She knew just how to keep him satisfied this way, there had never been anyone as good. As she used her hand and her mouth on him he started to rock into the moist cavern of her mouth and was not surprised when she used the fingers of her left hand to move around to his ass and clutch him. When she slowly pushed her index finger into him he came with a roar in her mouth. Drusilla swallowed every last drop. Carefully she drew away from William; she needed him to be flaccid to allow her toy to be fitted around him.

William followed his princess across the room. He wanted to kiss her very much. The taste of his spendings on her tongue turned him on and he was always ready for another bout by the end of the kiss. Drusilla knew what he wanted but he was not getting his way tonight. “Sit between your present’s legs my William. Mummy has another present for you tonight”.

Moving backwards towards the bed, William felt the edge against his legs. He never turned towards the woman lying there his whole concentration was on his dark princess. She glided towards him as if she was ethereal and he was struck again by her beauty. He glanced down at her hands and smiled when he saw that she held her toy from the week before.

“I will fit this around you my pet,” she crooned. “Mummy wants to play for a long time tonight and this will help us”

Fitting the device proved a little difficult as William had started to rise again however eventually it was in place. Urging William towards the bottom of the bed again she stood him up and turned him towards the woman.

“She has cooled a little my William” Drusilla said as she eyed the woman on the bed. “Shall we warm her up again? I want to play with my dolly”

“Tell me your pleasure Dru and we will warm her”

Drusilla smiled at William as she bade him stay where he was while she crawled to towards the woman’s face. Lowering her lips to the woman’s mouth she stuck her tongue down her throat. “Do you taste my William my sweet?” she crooned when she lifted her head. “I think you need to taste me now” and with that comment Dru moved herself over the woman’s face and ground her cunt into the woman’s mouth. Lightly tapping the woman’s breasts with her hands, she gave her commands “Lick it bitch. Lick it till I come all over your face and maybe William will lick it off you.” Grinning at William she motioned him to eat the woman out. Not even hesitating for a second William dove between the woman’s outstretched legs and started to savour his present.

William lifted his head as he heard the sounds of his love’s release. Smiling at her he beckoned her towards him. His mouth glistened from the woman’s juices but Drusilla did not care as theirs mouths clashed in a long wet kiss.

Without hesitation William rose from the end of the bed and moved his lover’s face back down to the woman’s cunt. “Drink her down Dru while I fuck you into next week.” Taking his long, thick cock in his hand he carefully placed it at the entrance to Drusilla’s sopping wet hole and plunged in.

It would be a cold day in hell before he would give up this type of pleasure.

Chapter 8 – Making plans

Buffy walked into the breakfast room the following morning knowing exactly how she would handle William. She already knew that a wedding was expected between the two of them and she was not supposed to know. When her father mentioned matrimony today she would titter and smile and give the impression that she was so happy. She would pretend to be in love.

Inside she was seething. How dare her family decide who she would marry! She would show them all by bringing her husband to his knees then leaving him and she would make sure her dowry left with her.

Seating herself at her customary place opposite her beloved sister Dawn she smiled at her mother Lady Joyce.

“Good morning mama” Buffy made voice sound slightly breathless. “I met the most wonderful man last night mama and he spent the evening with both papa and myself.” Buffy made her eyes drop demurely to her plate, “he is so handsome and has such wonderful manners.” Buffy knew she had to convince her mother that she was really attracted to her beau for her plan to work.

Lady Joyce smiled at her eldest daughter. Her husband had informed her the previous evening that he had found a husband for their daughter whose lineage he approved of. “One day he will be a duke my dear and his father went to Oxford with me.” Joyce had smiled her approval at her husband as he kissed lightly in her forehead and left her to sleep alone as he did every night. He had not shared her bed in many years and Lady Joyce did not dare to ask whose bed he did sleep in as she knew it was not his own.

Before Lady Joyce could reply, her husband entered the room. “Good Morning all,” he smiled at all the ladies seated at the table and sat down at the head.

Turning his attention to Buffy, his grace addressed her “Buffy, Lord William has asked me for your hand in marriage and I have accepted on your behalf.”

Buffy turned to her father and looked him in the eye.

“I would like that above all things papa. He is most handsome is he not?”

Craven moved back slightly in his chair. He had expected some form of resistance from Buffy and his surprise showed.

Recovering his composure he smiled at Buffy “I am glad to hear that child as I gave him permission to call at three o’clock today to ask for your hand.” A pang of conscience passed over him as he realised the type of life he was leading his daughter into, but it was the way of the ton.

Lady Joyce looked at her husband then looked towards her daughter “Do you really want to marry this man Buffy? You are still young and there is still time to make your choice”

“She has already said she would welcome his suit Joyce” her husband scowled “don’t interfere”

Lowering her eyes to her plate at the censure in her husband’s voice Lady Joyce murmured “Of course dear. You know best”

Buffy bit her tongue on the set down she would like to give her father. He always treated her mother like that. She had vowed many years ago that no man would treat her the way her father treated her mother. Her plans for William would ensure that this would never happen.

Lady Dawn started to move restlessly in her seat. Excited at the thought of meeting her sister’s prospective husband she commented “When will the wedding be papa? Can I be an attendant? I do so wish to be an attendant.”

Before his excited younger daughter started to babble at the table, his grace made the announcement that he would engage St Paul’s Cathedral for the ceremony which would take place within a month.

His wife stared at him across the divide. “Henry dear, it will take more than a few weeks to plan a Cathedral wedding.”

Craven narrowed his eyes at his wife “you will make it happen Joyce I am sure. I will ask my secretary to assist you.”

Lady Joyce knew better than to argue with her husband in front of the servants and dropped her head again.

Turning to Buffy, Craven spoke to Buffy in clipped tones. “Make yourself pretty today Buffy, I do not want William to regret his proposal today”

“As you wish papa” replied Buffy.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Back in her bed chamber once breakfast was complete Buffy was sitting at her dressing table staring at her reflection when her sister burst into the room. At thirteen years of age Lady Dawn already displayed signs of becoming a great beauty.

“What does this Lord William look like Buffy? Is he as handsome as you say? Do you love him?” Not a breath had she taken between sentences.

Buffy knew that she would have to keep up the pretence with her sister and started to extol his virtues. “Oh Dawnie,” she cried “he is so handsome. He has wonderful blue eyes. His cheekbones are so high and his figure is very manly.” Buffy gave her sister what she hoped was a dreamy smile. “He kissed me last night Dawnie, and I thought I had died and gone to heaven.” At least Buffy did not need to lie on that point. She blushed remembering what had happened during the kiss and her actions when she returned to her room.

“Would you like to help me dress for my proposal Dawnie?” Buffy smiled at her sister. “I must look my best today.”

Both sisters moved towards the dressing room. Buffy allowed Dawn to look through her dresses and chose the one she would wear today. Inside Buffy was still angry. Women had no rights to their lives, especially women of the ton. She was expected to accept William as her husband and give birth to his children while he dallied with that dark haired strumpet. She had to find a way to tear him from her.

Buffy moved back into her room and sat on her bed thoughtfully. She wondered why she needed to remove William from that bitch’s clutches when she had no feelings for him. She needed him in order to be free from her father but that was as far as she was willing to go. Oh she liked the pleasure his fingers gave her but as she found out the previous night she could do that herself. It must be the kissing she thought, she did enjoy his kisses.

She was still dreaming on her bed when Dawn returned from the dressing room with a cream and gold muslin gown. “Do you think this will do Buffy?” her sister asked hesitantly. “I think you always look pretty in this.”

Smiling at her sister’s enthusiasm Buffy agreed that the gold and cream confection would do.

“I will arrange your bath for you Buffy” Dawn smiled over her shoulder as she left the room.

Yes the cream and gold gown would most certainly do. It was cut slightly lower in the front than some of her other day dresses and she would normally have added a fichu to the front of the gown to hide her breasts, but today she was determined that William would see the gown in all its glory.

She could not wait.

Chapter 9 – The ring

William stood with his father in the family drawing room in Grosvener Square.

“Well Will?” his father asked, “how do you like the Summers chit?”

“She will do.” William replied, and gave his father an outline of the bargain struck between Craven and himself.

Annandale stared at his son with his mouth slightly open in astonishment. “Are you telling me that all he requires of his son-in-law is to bed his daughter till she starts to breed?”

William smiled at his father. “Yes Sir. Once the deed is done I can remove her to our Northern estates where he will send his wife and younger daughter to keep her company. Craven did state that for one month of the year I must visit her there and sleep with her every night”

His father stared at him in wonder. “My God boy there are men in the ton who would envy you that arrangement”

“I know father,” William moved towards the brandy and poured himself a large glass. As he lifted it towards his lips he looked at his father once more. “He did put a clause on this arrangement however”

“If I were you boy I would accept any condition.” Annandale walked across room and poured himself a brandy like his son. “Out with it then Will, what is the condition?”

Taking another mouthful of the brandy before replying, William moved to sit on one of the chairs by the fireplace. His father followed his lead and sat down on his favourite chair opposite his son.

“The condition, father, is that I have to be so discreet about my relationship with Lady Drusilla that no word of it must come to Buffy’s ears. That should not be a problem as I doubt that Buffy’s family run in the same circles as Dru”

“Buffy? Who the hell is Buffy? The Summers chit’s name is Elizabeth” his father snarked at him.

“Buffy is her pet name in the family, and to be honest father I like it better than Elizabeth. It’s unusual and unique. Just like the girl” he added.

Annandale looked at his son in surprise. The Summers girl had made an impression on his son of that he was sure. Both he and Craven had agreed this match many years before though neither of their children realised it. Craven had put there plan in motion in a far better way than the Annandale could have imagined. The old man had appealed to his son’s failings and it was an excellent ploy.

“When do you see her again Will?” his father asked of him.

“I am to make my proposal today at three o’clock.” William glanced at the clock on the mantel as he spoke and noticed he would have to leave soon to keep his appointment with his bride to be.

Rising from his chair, William spoke to his father once more. “Time for me to leave for Berkley Square father. I have a proposal to attend”

His father rose and walked towards his son and they shook hands. “Good luck my boy and I wish you happy.” Removing his hand from his son’s strong grip he casually asked “Have you a ring?”

William’s head went back in surprise. “Good God, father, I forgot I would need a ring. I can’t very well propose without producing something for the chit’s finger”

His father smiled at him and told him to follow him to his study. Once the door was closed ensuring total privacy between the two men, Annandale moved towards the portrait of his late wife Anne, and moved it aside to reveal the safe. Unlocking the door with a key he found in his pocket he withdrew a large jewel case. This he placed on the study desk and using another key on his watch chain he opened the lock and lifted the lid.

“Pick something of your Mother’s lad. She would have liked you to give something of hers to your fiancé.”

William moved forward to the case, he tried not to notice the tears that had come to his father’s eye as he offered the jewels. His parent’s marriage had definitely been a love match and William knew that he missed her terribly since her death fifteen years before.

“Why did you never marry again father? William queried “With your name you could have had your pick of the ton beauties. That is if you like them straight out of the schoolroom. I like my women to have a bit of experience. It would be very boring to have to teach ‘a lady’ how to please you in bed.”

“Maybe my boy, but no one could replace my Anne.” As he said this his eyes strayed to the portrait on the wall. “She was beautiful inside and out and I could never love another woman as I loved her. She was my life.”

Knowing this to be true, William placed his hand on his father’s shoulder. “I know this father. The Annandale’s love long and deep, it is a family tradition.” William removed his hand and walked towards the study desk to pick a betrothal ring. “I love Drusilla father, but our match is not to be. I cannot give her up, but I promise you that I will do nothing to hurt Buffy. I will be the best husband I can and I promise that you will be proud of both of us”

Annandale gave his son a watery smile as he nodded towards the jewel case. “You better get a move on Will. Can’t keep a lady waiting”

William smiled at his father and looked down into the jewel case. His eyes were immediately drawn to a large emerald surrounded by brilliant diamonds. He remembered that Buffy had green eyes and this would suit her perfectly. Lifting the ring from its bed in the case he turned it to the light and marvelled as the way the light from the window caught the gems.

His father looked at the ring his son has chosen and inwardly approved his choice. “I gave that ring to your mother when you were born Will. She made me the happiest man on earth that day.” Once again tears came unbidden to his eyes. Turning away from his son he gruffly told him to get a move a move on and propose to the future Duchess of Annandale.

William pocketed the ring and once more shook his father’s hand before taking his leave.

There was a large part of him that hoped he would receive a betrothal kiss. His manhood stirred at the thought. A betrothal kiss would definitely brighten his day.

Chapter 10 – Giving and receiving

Buffy was sitting in the drawing room watching the clock slowly move its way to three. Her mother and sister were keeping her company and Lady Dawn was sure that her sister must be in a state of excitement as she noticed the continual glances at the clock.

Lady Joyce was still worried. She knew her daughter well and was not convinced by her display that morning at the breakfast table. Her head strong daughter could not possibly have fallen in love at first sight, she refused to believe it. She also knew that Buffy would not accept a gentleman her father had chosen for her without good reason.

“Buffy my dear,” Lady Joyce asked politely “are you sure you wish to accept Lord William.”

“Oh mama,” Buffy replied, “he is the most handsome of men and I am sure we will suit admirably.” Noticing the look of worry on her mother’s face she decided to tell her the truth, however she needed to get rid of Dawn first.

“Dawnie, could you please go to my room and look for my blue fan?” Buffy asked of her sister. “It is starting to get a trifle warm in here and I would not like Lord William to see me with a red face.”

Lady Dawn jumped up from the sofa to do her sister’s bidding. She was tired of waiting for Buffy’s beau to arrive and was glad of something to do. Once she had gone from the room Buffy turned to her mother.

“Mama we do not have much time until Dawn returns so I will make this statement quickly. I do NOT love Lord William nor will I ever do. He is a rake of the highest order and he has had the same mistress for several years.”

Lady Joyce opened her mouth to reply, but Buffy forestalled her.

“Do not say anything mama, I know exactly what I am doing.” Buffy assured her mother. “He is the best choice that father has brought before me so far and I will not be married to an old man. I have plans for this marriage mama, which do not include producing an heir on the man. I will be the perfect wife in public and keep face with the ton, but I will not be laughed at behind my back while he leaves me alone at night to see his mistress.”

Unable to reply Lady Joyce stared at her daughter as she continued.

“Once he has proposed and can not cry off I will tell him of MY conditions for this marriage. If he as desperate for Craven money as I believe he is then he will not demure.” Buffy looked at her mother sternly and continued, “I hold all the aces in this marriage mama be sure of that.”

Nothing more could be said as both heard the return of Lady Dawn presumably with the fan she had been sent for. Bursting through the door of the drawing room Dawn breathed quickly in her excitement. “He’s here Buffy and you were correct, he is so handsome.”

Giving her mother a look which Lady Joyce interpreted as an entreaty to keep her silence, Buffy turned towards the door as Craven entered the room and spoke directly to Buffy.

“Buffy my dear, could you accompany me to the library please? You have a visitor who wishes to speak to you.” Turning to his wife Craven instructed her to ensure that refreshments should be brought to the drawing room in preparation of the celebration of their daughter’s betrothal.

Buffy followed in her father’s wake towards the library. Although she had her speech planned out in her head, she was not sure if she would be able to go through with her plan. She was conscience of the nerves in her stomach and her legs were shaking badly.

Entering the room behind her father, Buffy stood stock still staring at William. He was, without doubt, the most handsome man she had ever met. If he loved her she would be the luckiest woman on earth, but she knew that would never be. A man who had been with a woman for ten years was not likely to give her up overnight.

“My Lord,” Buffy spoke into the silence, “how nice of you to come and visit again with us so soon.”

Craven looked at his daughter and then back to Lord William. “Buffy, William has something he wishes to ask you and as you know he has already spoken to me and had been given my approval.”

Buffy looked at her father hoping her disgust did not show on her face.

“Yes papa.”

“I will leave you now William,” Craven spoke into the room and promptly turned and left them alone.

William walked slowly towards Buffy and stood directly in front of her. He took hold of her hand and placed a kiss over her knuckles. “Did you sleep well last night Pet?” he asked. He hoped she had dreamed of him and the pleasure he had given her. He felt tightness in his loins as he thought of how she had looked as he played with her cunny. He smiled at her and winked.

Buffy stared up at his deep blue eyes and once again thought him the most handsome of men. She blushed prettily as she too remembered his wonderful kisses and knowing fingers. Remembering her own actions when she went to bed, she blushed even more.

“I…slept well enough my Lord,” she stammered “thank you for asking.”

“Good,” he replied. “Buffy, will you do me the honour of becoming my wife”

Although she had been expecting the proposal, she was still a little shocked. She looked him in the eye and wondered if he had spent the night remembering their encounter in the library. As she contemplated her reply her eyes fell from his eyes and travelled down towards his neck. She noticed a faint purple bruise that had not been there last night. She knew without a doubt that he had gone from her arms to his strumpet. Anger rose within her and she closed her eyes to try and hold back the feelings inside. She could not falter now; she had to ensure that he did not know that she knew about Lady Drusilla just yet.

“I….I…will, my Lord.” It had been the hardest thing she had ever had to say in her life, but she had to be married to be free.

William smiled down at his betrothed and he increased the pressure on the hand he was holding.

“We best make this official my love,” he said as his free hand travelled into his pocket to remove his mother’s ring.

With great care William placed the ring on her finger and was glad to see that it was a perfect fit. He did not want to despoil the ring in any way as it had belonged to his mother and he had loved her very much.

Buffy stared down at the emerald on her finger. It was, without doubt, the most beautiful ring she had ever seen. Tears came to her eyes unbidden and in her heart she wished that this union was one of love.

“Tears my darling?” William said as he drew her towards him and held her in an embrace. “I will make you so happy Buffy. I will never let you down.”

Knowing that this was a lie but allowing him to continue to hold her Buffy willed the tears to stop. She must make her move soon.

William’s hand went under her chin and tilted her head towards him.

“I think we should seal this agreement with a kiss Pet,” he said and slowly lowered his head towards her.

It took all the will-power Buffy possessed to allow him to kiss her. Thoughts of how he had spent the night in the arms of his mistress came unbidden to her mind. She wanted nothing more that to put a knife through his black heart.

As his soft lips touched her own lightly all thoughts went from her head. Holding her tighter against him, William deepened the kiss taking advantage of her slightly parted lips to plunge his tongue inside. When Buffy responded shyly touching her tongue to hers he lost all composure.

He crushed her to him, plundering her mouth. She tasted of mint and lemon and he was reminded of the taste of her juices. She was as sweet as honey and she melted against him. Electric shocks sparked between then and when Buffy’s hands moved around his neck he was almost lost. His hands moved downwards and gripped her buttocks hard. Lifting her slightly against him Buffy could help but notice the hard length pressing into her stomach. She was as lost as he. She could not get close enough to him. How could a kiss be so explosive? Reluctantly William let her go but he did not leave much space between them.

“The wedding will have to be soon Luv, or the next time I kiss you I will have you on your back with your skirts around your neck and my mouth on your cunt.”

Buffy stared up at him shocked at what he had said, but she could not stop the feeling of excitement that passed through her at the thought. If he could create magic with his fingers what would his mouth do?

“Do you want me William?” she smiled at him. This was all part of her plan. He had to want her for it to work. “I want you to bring the magic back to me at your hand, and I want it soon.” She lifted her hand to pet his face and with a shy smile she said, “Would I like your mouth on me William, would it be as pleasant as your hand?”

William was as hard as a rock as he stared down in astonishment at his virgin bride to be. She looked at him in all innocence but the words she spoke brought all sorts of images to his mind. He loved the taste of pussy and he was sure he was going to thoroughly enjoy hers.

“Shall we try it out for size sweetheart?” he teased, “after all we will be married soon and what I want to do you will not compromise your virginity in any way.”

Buffy stared at him. She could not believe the words that came from his mouth. He left her standing there in the middle of the library as he walked over and locked the door. He stalked back towards her and took hold of both her hands to lead her to the chaise-lounge. Seating her down by her shoulders he knelt down between her legs.

“Wh…What are you going to do?” she asked breathlessly.

“Why….bring you pleasure sweetheart” he replied curling his tongue behind his top teeth. Watching this gesture Buffy felt her self melt inside and could already feel the stickiness of her secretions coat her thighs.

William moved his hands to her ankles and drew her legs apart. He slowly moved his hands up her legs drawing the hem of her dress with him. Tickling the soft skin at the back of her knees he moved himself up to kiss the moan from her lips. Fuck going slow he thought, he needed to taste her now. Before she knew what was happening to her, Buffy’s dress was around her waist and William was drawing her to the edge of the seat.

He stared down at the petals laid bare before him through the slit in her drawers. The blonde curls taunted him with their wetness and he slowly moved his hand towards them. Last night he had pleasured her beneath her clothes and had not seen the glory of her pussy. As he slowly rubbed around her outer lips moving slowly to her centre he looked up at her face and was entrapped by the pleasure he found there. She was enjoying this very much. Her head was thrown back and she arched her back as she opened her legs wider for him of their own accord.

Ignoring his own arousal which was paining him badly, he was determined to make this good for her.

“Open your eyes for me sweetheart,” he husked at her. “I want you to look at me while I pleasure you.”

Buffy opened her eyes and stared down at the man between her legs. He was looking her with such a fire in his eyes that she could not refuse him.

Holding her with his eyes he lowered his head. He looked down for a few seconds at the feast before him and returned his eyes to hers. “So pretty,” he whispered to her. “I wonder if it tastes as good as it looks.”

Moving his hands to her inner thighs he opened her even wider and lowered his head still further. He kissed each of her thighs slowly drawing the soft skin into his mouth giving a little nip with his teeth as he did. He felt her thighs quiver at his touch and smiled to himself. He was going to enjoy this.

Moving his head towards her soft petals he darted out his tongue and placed it at her hole. Licking around her entrance he made sure he did not go near her clit, he would keep that for later. He moved his tongue up and down her slit while keeping his eyes on the beauty above him. He could feel her swell against his tongue as her pussy lips started to guard the entrance he sought. Using his left hand he parted her lips with his fingers and flattened his tongue to taste her fully.

Buffy’s breathing was coming in short pants. She could not believe the sensations she was feeling. His tongue was magical and she knew that soon she would come apart. Excitement built inside her and she could feel her toes start to curl in anticipation. Her legs were shaking badly and she could not keep her hands still, she moved them into his hair and held him closely to her.

William loved the feel of her hands in his hair and decided it was time to take this seduction to the next level. Moving his head slightly he latched his teeth to her clit and bit lightly while lashing it with his quick moving tongue.

A scream she could not stop came unbidden to her mouth. William quickly moved his hand to stifle her response; he did not want an interruption to their play. He continued to lick her slowly as she calmed down.

“God, Buffy, you taste of lemon and peach and I could spend all day and night down here.” He gave her one last lick as he started to help her to smooth down her clothing.
William was as hard as a rock and he was desperate for release but he realised it was too soon in their relationship for him to get her to help him with his problem.

Buffy stood on shaky legs and looked at William. He smiled at her once more and pulled her into his arms. “You tasted so sweet darling,” he whispered into her ear then moved his mouth to cover hers. Buffy tasted herself on his tongue and wondered why she felt ready to do anything he wanted with her. He pulled her closer and she felt his desire once more hard and thick against her belly. Slowly she dropped her hand and touched him through his trousers. William shuddered violently and drew back from her.

“God, Buffy don’t touch me,” he husked.

“Why my Lord, do you not like it?” she smiled coquettishly up at him.

William smiled down at her. “I like it a lot sweetheart, but if you don’t stop I will have to release my trousers and let you continue and I don’t want to frighten you.” He was amazed at this as he realised that this was true. He did not want her to shy away from him and he wondered at the reason for this.

“Take it out William,” she breathed at him. “Let me see my future.”

He did not need to be asked twice. Unbuttoning his flap he allowed his cock to spring free. Taking her small hand in his he brought it to him. Linking his hand over the back of hers he placed it on his aching dick and showed her the amount of pressure he liked as she stroked him up and down.

Buffy stared down at him fascinated with how it jumped in her hands. She noticed the dew of his pre-cum on the tip and became engrossed in how it appeared to increase as she stroked him. Moving her hand to the tip she caught the drop on her finger. She looked William in the eye as she slowly lifted it to her mouth to taste. After all he had tasted her, why should she not taste him.

William stared at her and watched her little pink tongue taste him. He felt himself swell even more and was sure that he had never been so hard in his life. Even during his and Drusilla’s ‘games’ he had never been this hard.

“Do you know what I would like you to do Luv?” William whispered in her ear as she continued to stroke him. “I would like you down on your knees with your mouth around my cock.” His hips were moving against her hand and he knew he was near the end. “I want to spend myself on your tongue like you did on mine. I want to watch your face as you taste me.” He started to thrust in earnest now as Buffy’s strokes became more forceful.

“Yes Pet” he said “keep doing that. So good my sweet Buffy. So fine, my darling, my love, mine.”

Buffy thrilled at his words. She now knew the power a woman could have over a man if she let down the defences that society demanded she keep in place. She suddenly understood why men took mistresses as their wives would not do this for their husbands. While she re-evaluated her plan. She wanted him on his knees for her and to do that she would have to go on her knees for him.

Still stroking his cock she moved in front of him. “What would you do for me if I was to put my mouth around you William? Would you love me forever? Would you stay faithful to me? Would you pleasure me every night?”

William was beyond all thought. “Anything Buffy, anything,” he promised. And he meant it, he needed her mouth on him now or he would burst a nut all over the library.

Buffy smiled at him in triumph. “In that case William, tell me what to do,” and she dropped on her knees in front of him and licked him from base to tip. She was surprised at the taste and how pleasant it was on her tongue. “Do you want me to keep on licking you William?”

He was ready to explode. He could feel his balls tightening and he needed her mouth around him now. Putting his hands on either side of her head he drew her to him. “Open wide sweetheart,” he whispered. “I need to be inside you now.” Desperation made his voice needy.

Opening her mouth wide, Buffy let him in. Closing her mouth around his girth she tried to stop the choking reflex she suddenly felt. William seemed to know exactly how she felt and instructed her to take in only the head and lick around it. When she was happy with that he told her to start to suck.

And that is exactly what she did. William threw his head back and used all his self-control not to just thrust blindly into her mouth. He could not believe the wanton minx that would become his wife soon. Looking forward to teaching her all the tricks he knew, he could see himself spending more than one month a year in her company. Without warning he came hard into her mouth and watched her eyes widen slightly. “Swallow it all down sweetheart,” he commanded as he thrust himself into her mouth.

Once he was spent he collapsed down in front of her. Looking at her mouth he could see some of his spunk that she had missed. She watched him look at her and she lifted her hand to her mouth and catching the drops on her fingers she slowly licked.

William drew her into his arms and kissed her passionately. He could taste himself on her and it turned him on again. Pulling back slightly from her he stood and helped her to her feet. “Now you’ve been introduced to Spike in the best way possible Luv, I hope you will ‘talk’ to him again soon.”

Buffy giggled and William thought it sounded like the bells of angels. “Spike? You call your thing Spike?”

“You like that Luv?” he leered at her.

“Yes, I like that very much.” She smiled at him. “I will call you Spike from now on William, and you will call me Buffy, and only we will know”

William could not believe how much he liked the sound of that. “Spike it is then Pet.”

It took a little time to make sure they both looked presentable.

It was time to announce their engagement to the family.

Chapter 11 – A father’s acceptance

William offered Buffy his arm as they entered the drawing room. Bending down he whispered in her ear, “Your Spike still wants to play, Pet. Shall we see what he would like to do later tonight?”

Buffy blushed prettily and William thought she looked so lovely that his breath caught in his throat. He could still not believe what she had done in the library. Her un-tutored sucking had turned him on more than any woman he had been with, except Dru of course, but that was because he loved her.

Craven stood up as they entered the room. “Well?” he asked impatiently, “Are we to wish you both happy?”

Buffy smiled up at her fiancé and turned to her father. “Yes papa, you may wish us both happy.”

Her father’s smile beamed all over his face. Lady Dawn ran to her sister and hugged her tightly. “I am so happy for you Buffy, and you were correct in saying he was handsome.”

William smiled down at his sister-in-law to be and ruffled her hair. “Why thank you bit. You will soon be a great beauty too.”

Lady Dawn smiled up at William and moved to give him a hug too. “Welcome to the family my Lord.” She turned to her father. “When will we let Xander know papa?”

William looked down at Buffy in confusion, the look on his face let her know that he did not know about her older brother Lord Alexander.

“Our older brother is currently at Oxford, William. No doubt he will see the announcement in The Times.”

“No doubt,” he replied. “I must send word to The Times and Morning Post tomorrow.”

Craven looked smugly at William. “Already done, sent the announcements this morning.”

“Before I had received a reply from Buffy sir?” William looked at his grace.

“Knew she would not refuse you William, she said she would accept when I discussed your proposal with her this morning.”

William looked down at Buffy and was reassured by the wonderful smile he saw on her face. No doubt the chit was in love with him already which suited him fine. He smiled back at her and lifted her left hand to his lips to kiss the ring he had placed there.

Lady Joyce walked over to Buffy and taking her hand looked down at the ring. “Lord William this is indeed a wonderful betrothal ring. Did you purchase this today?”

Smiling down at his her, William told her of the ring’s history and how he and his father would be proud if Buffy wore it. Her grace smiled at him and patted his arm. “Buffy should always wear emeralds, they match her eyes.”

“My thoughts exactly, your grace, and I will complete the set once we are married.”

Not with my money Buffy thought while continuing to smile. She might enjoy what they do together but it did not mean she would allow him to waste her money on fripperies. She needed her dowry to escape him and be independent.

Craven looked at his wife. “How quickly can we arrange a betrothal ball my dear? I would like the whole world to know our daughter is spoken for.”

“I will send the invitations out today Henry, and we should be able to have everything organised for Saturday next week if you would let me have use of your secretary.”

“Of course my dear,” replied his grace “I know you will not let me down.” Craven turned and left the room leaving the women to their celebration. On his way to the door he asked William to join him in something stronger than tea.

Once the men had departed, both her mother and sister smiled at Buffy. Her mother spoke first with concern in her voice as she remembered her daughter’s comments at the breakfast table that morning, “Buffy darling, are you sure about this?”

“Oh yes mama,” Buffy smiled at her mother. “I know exactly how I will handle William.” A faraway look came into her eyes when she remembered exactly how she had handled him just a short time before. William was going to be putty in her hands of that she was sure.

“Don’t worry mama,” Buffy went on. “We will fit together well I assure you. This will be a good match. He has something I want, and I have something he craves.”

Her mother looked at her with a frown and Buffy decided to stop any further questions by exclaiming that they had a trousseau to plan and buy. Knowing her sister loved to shop; it was the easiest way to turn the conversation to something pleasant.


In the library both men were congratulating each other on the outcome of the betrothal. Craven turned to William and said, “Are you willing to comply with my conditions then William?”

“Indeed sir,” William replied looking the older man in the eyes. “I am already rather fond of your daughter and promise to treat her well, however I will not give up Drusilla,” he felt he had to make his position very clear to the Duke.

“As long as no scandal touches my daughter Whitmore, I do not care. I am quite looking forward to sending Joyce and Dawn away for months at a time.” His grace smiled slyly at William, “I too like my freedom William, and wives who live three hundred miles from you are worth their weight in gold. I, too, have interests in London that are, how should I put it, better conducted without the bother of attending a wife.”

William felt uncomfortable suddenly and he wondered why. Surely a wife living in the north of England and nowhere near he and Drusilla was his dream was it not? He quickly pulled himself together and held out his hand for the Duke to shake. “I will take my leave of you now Sir and will return at nine o’clock this evening to escort Buffy and the ladies to whatever soiree is planned.

“Excellent idea, William” the duke beamed at him. “That arrangement will leave me free to pursue my own pleasures tonight.”

As he watched William leave the room, the duke threw back his head and laughed. His plans were going well, and soon he would be free of his annoying family.

William’s marriage to Buffy would be his godsend.

Laying down his emptied glass on a side table, he followed William from the room.

Chapter 12 – Bath time

William left the Craven town house with a spring in his step. Buffy was turning out to be a little spitfire. He could not believe that in the space of thirty six hours he had met and proposed to a woman who he knew would turn out to be a sexy little vixen. Visions filled his head of their sojourn in the library and he knew that soon he would fuck her into the mattress. He could hardly wait.

Returning to his lodgings he discussed with his valet his rig-out for the evening and decided that he would not visit Dru tonight. For some reason he did not think he could go from Buffy’s charms to Dru’s this evening. He wanted to be fresh for the morrow when he would take her driving through Hyde Park. It was the best way he knew of letting the ton know they were engaged.

William had already decided that he would take the closed carriage tonight as there might be a chance of some playtime with his Buffy. He started at the thought. When did he start to think of her as ‘his Buffy’? He laughed to himself at the thought, he thought of her as his as soon as her lips had went round his cock. He thanked the God’s that he had bathed well that morning or she would have tasted Dru and his ‘gift’ on her tongue, and to be truthful he had too much respect for her to take their love-making that far, no matter how sexy the thought.

Taking a sudden decision to bathe once more he rang for his valet to prepare him a bath. He wanted to be clean for her just in case she put her mouth to him again.

Lying back in the bath in his dressing room, William let his mind wander back to their little encounter that afternoon. He had loved her taste, it reminded of lemon ices from Gunter’s. He wanted to taste her essence again, but what he really wanted to do was shave her little pink pussy. It was by far his favourite form of foreplay. Spending time between a woman’s legs slowly soaping her over and over again, pulling the razor slowly over the curls, watching the pussy lips swell at his ministrations, and the best part was kissing it all better. He loved a bare pussy and he could not wait to do that to her.

Looking down at himself lying relaxed in his bath he realised that certain parts of his anatomy were not relaxed. Down Spike he thought, keep yourself for your little virgin.

Fuck It! He had to give it a stroke. Up and down his hand moved against himself. The warm water and a generous application of sandalwood soap was more than enough lubrication for his purposes. He imagined it was Buffy’s little hand around him. His thoughts moved on to her delicious little mouth. Her un-tutored sucking had sent him into ecstasy. If last night was her first attempt at cock sucking he could only imagine how well she would perform with a little practice. He was more than willing to let her practice all she liked. In fact, he would positively encourage her attempts to please him.

As he continued to stroke harder and faster his thought turned to fucking her. God, but she would be sweet. In his fantasy he could feel her warm, wet cunnie around him. She would squeeze him with wonderful internal muscles, gripping him tight as she came and he spent inside her. He stroked faster and faster, eyes closed as he pictured his golden goddess below him. Water lapped over the edge of the bath, he did not care. With a groan, he came. Opening his eyes he smiled at himself. Soon, he thought, soon I will have her.

How he looked forward to the evening.


In her bedroom Buffy was having similar thoughts as she lay in her bath. She carefully soaped herself with her special blend of vanilla soap. Surprised to find that she was spending a lot of time washing her breasts, she moved her hand down. Lifting her legs from the water she rubbed them with stone to take away all the stubble. She wanted her legs smooth for William hands as he stroked her. Allowing the cooling water to soothe her sore legs, she moved her hands towards her centre. Her ‘cunt’ William had called it. She had never heard of the word before and she liked it, it sounded deliciously wanton.

Moving the soap around her cunt she found herself once more enjoying the sensations her fingers brought. Harder and harder she rubbed until finally she came in the bath. She must try and get him alone this evening and let him play with her some more. Although she enjoyed her own ministrations, it was far more delicious when William used his fingers and mouth on her.

Rising from the bath Buffy surrounded herself in the towels warming by the fire. She sat for a small while just thinking to herself. Staring at herself in the mirror, she seemed to do that a lot these days; she wondered why she let Spike do those things to her. He made her wanton and she loved it. She had loved the feeling of power that went through her as she took his cock in her hand and then her mouth.

Thoughts of his mistress went through her head quickly dispelling her lecherous thoughts. How could she stop him from visiting her on a regular basis as he did now?

The answer came to her in a flash. She would leave him so spent that he would not have the energy to visit the Black Hearted Bitch. She would make sure that he came at least twice in an evening and she would make herself so wanton that he would think only of her.

The main issue was how to keep him interested enough to keep coming back. I know, she thought, I will not let him enter me with anything but his tongue or fingers. She would keep him so frustrated for her that he would bend to her will. Using the excuse of keeping her virginity for her wedding night would be enough of an excuse to keep him at bay.

In her naivety she did not realise that by leaving him frustrated, she would only drive him into Drusilla’s arms.

Chapter 13 – A carriage ride

William arrived at eight thirty that evening. Giles announced him with style at the drawing room door and William stepped forward to greet the Duke and the Duchess. Allowing himself a quick look around the room he wondered where Buffy was and said so.

“She is still in her room Lord William,” her grace told him. At a look from her husband Lady Joyce left the room to find her daughter.

Buffy was in her room putting the finishing touches to her toilette. Turning as the door opened and her mother entered she gave her a huge smile.

“Do I look well, mama?” asked Buffy as she stood in all her splendour.

Her grace looked at her daughter and her mouth fell open. The gown she was wearing was in leaf green, covered with silver gauze. The neckline was lower than her mother approved of as it showed too much breast but as she was due to be married within the next four weeks it should not be a problem. Her small puff sleeves displayed a lot of bare skin before the edges of her silver gloves. On her ring finger her betrothal ring blinked in the light against her glove. Around her neck she wore a small silver cross which her Grandmother had given her many years before and in her ears she more small silver studs. She looked, her mother decided, like a forest nymph.

“You look enchanting my dear,” her mother replied. “William will be more in love than ever when he sees you.”

Buffy frowned. “He does not love me yet mama, but he will soon.” She smiled at her mother once more. “Shall we go down?”

Mother and daughter entered the drawing room and Buffy noticed that William had his back to her talking to her father.

“Ah Buffy,” her father said “you look truly beautiful this evening.”

“Thank you papa,” she replied as William slowly turned at her voice.

Buffy watched his face as a look of boredom was replaced with a look she was beginning to know well. He wanted her right now and she returned his look with one that she hoped conveyed the same message. He grinned at her and while her mother and father were conversing in the corner he stuck out his tongue a little and gave it a little wiggle. Buffy replied by returning the gesture and she pointedly dropped her gaze to his cock which she was sure was starting to rise in his trousers.

“Buffy my love,” William said. “You take my breath away this evening. I am truly a lucky man.”

She smiled prettily at him all the while thinking how unlucky he really was.

“Let’s get a move on then,” his grace announced. “The sooner we get to this thing the sooner we can come home.” Craven had arranged an evening with his mistress, but realised he had to escort Buffy and William into society tonight. From now on he would leave this sort of thing to Joyce. It would give her something to do and free his time for Lady Catherine. He had ignored her of late trying to get his daughter wed and out of his hair.

“I brought my carriage this evening Sir, if you would all care to ride with me,”

“We will take both coaches William,” replied the duke. “Lady Joyce complained of a headache earlier today and I want to be able to return as quickly as possible should it become worse.” The look the duke gave William let him know that he would most definitely be leaving the soiree early and William knew exactly where he would be once he had made sure his wife was safely in bed. He answered the look with a small nod of understanding and was secretly pleased that he would have Buffy alone in the coach with him tonight. Once they had a little playtime he would take her home and head straight for Dru. He reckoned he would need her tonight.

Buffy was pleased with the arrangements as well. She did not know about her father’s mistress and often wondered why her mother was unhappy. She knew they no longer shared a bed as her father’s bedroom was not even on the same floor as her mother. Surely if they still shared intimacy then their bedrooms would be next to each other with a connecting door. She knew that sort of arrangement was common to most married couples.

She was distracted by her thoughts as William approached and held out his arm for her to take. Placing her left hand over his forearm she marvelled at the strength she felt there. A small shudder of awareness ran down her backbone at the knowledge that they would play again tonight. She would make sure of it.

William had felt her tremble against his arm and was sure that anticipation of their being alone together was the cause. He smiled down at her upturned face and mouthed silently, “I want to taste you again.” She caught his meaning quickly enough and mouthed back, “and I you.” His immediate erection at her words would not be willed away quickly.

As he handed Buffy up to his coach he watched her father do the same to her mother. Both men smiled at one another and another wave of understanding passed between them. They would both be satisfied by women of a different ilk tonight.

William stepped into his coach in Buffy’s wake and sat opposite her. “Well pet,” he drawled. “Can you guess what I would like to do at this moment?”

Buffy smiled at William, “Why, I have no idea…..Spike,” she whispered her pet name for him. “Why don’t you tell me?”

Saucy minx he thought. If she was turned on by dirty talk he could easily do that.

“I want to kiss you breathless Luv. I want to take that delectable bottom lip of yours into my mouth and bite it. I want to hear you cry my name as I make you come. I want to lick your juice from my fingers and kiss you with your essence on my tongue, and then I want to taste you as I did today to make sure I not forget your taste.” He smiled at her and sat back on the seat.

“Will I tell you what I want to do to you Spike?” Buffy replied. “I want to take your cock out of your trousers and hold it in my hands. I want to stroke it till that little pearl of moisture appears at the tip. I want to put my mouth on you and taste it. I would lick and lick till you begged me to take you into my mouth, and then I would suck you dry.”

“Oh God Pet,” William looked at her. “I wish we could do that right now but I don’t want you to walk into this thing tonight looking like you had been totally ravished.” His voice lowered, “But be assured wench when we leave this soiree tonight we will have some playtime. The movement of the carriage can add greatly to the fun.”

“I hope so Spike,” Buffy smiled at him. She looked pointedly down at his crotch as she continued, “Because it looks as though you are in some pain at the moment.” An idea struck her immediately. “Would you like me to do something about your predicament just now?” She smiled at him and batted her lashes.

William stared and Buffy then smiled. “Witch!” he said. “Come over here you little vixen,” he growled.

Buffy stayed where she was but leaned forward slightly and started to rub him through his trousers. She was pleased to see William fall back against the squabs and open his legs for her. Opening his trouser flap she allowed his cock to be free. Slowly she took his cock in both hands and rubbed them up and down his length. She watched his face as she did so and saw the look of pleasure that he could not hide. Bending down she gave his cock a little kiss and Spike bucked towards her mouth.

“Suck me Buffy,” he said huskily. “Put your pretty pink lips around me.”

Doing as he asked she opened her mouth over him. He tasted wonderful. She was able to take more of his length into her mouth than she had before as she was more prepared for him. Bobbing her head up and down Buffy used her tongue on the underside. When she moved up to the head she licked around it and pointing her tongue she dropped it delicately into the slit.

William’s hips rose from the seat and he pushed himself further into her mouth. He felt himself in her throat and was desperate to hold her head still as he fucked her mouth. He fisted his hands against the seat to stop himself. They could not arrive with her hair undone and his come on her lips.

Buffy moved her head even lower and she swallowed in reaction to his cock in her throat. “Again baby,” William cried. “Do that again…..Please.”

Smiling around his cock, Buffy swallowed hard while she moved one of her hands inside his trousers and started to play with his balls. She felt them tighten in her hand and William came down her throat. She fought against the gag reflex and swallowed him down. When he was lying spent against the seat, she gently licked him clean and tidied him away.

William was sitting with his legs still wide open and his eyes were closed. Quietly she said his name and was surprised he did not answer. Again she said his name and he slowly opened his eyes. Looking at her as if he had never seen her before William pulled her in for a kiss.

“Well pet,” he whispered in her ear. “That has never happened to me before.” When she looked at with puzzlement on her face, he laughed softly. “Buffy, when a man or a woman comes that hard they experience something the French call ‘petit mort’; roughly translated into the ‘little death’. I came so hard Pet that I blacked out.” He smiled down at her and said, “If you can do that to me when you have only sucked dick twice in your life, can you imagine what you will do to me in forty years?”

Buffy smiled to herself as she knew she would not be with him in forty years. “Was it really that good Spike?” Despite his reaction she still needed reassurance that he enjoyed it.

William smiled at her, “Buffy, if it was not for the fact that we are nearly at our destination your dress would be round your neck and my tongue would be so far up your hole that you would think it was coming out of your mouth. Does that make it clear enough for you?”

“Perfectly,” she smiled at him. “Maybe you could demonstrate that move later.”

“Do not doubt it Buffy. I am determined that you will enjoy the ‘little death’ too.

She could hardly wait.

Chapter 14 – The ride home


William never left her side all evening. Craven had made the announcement of their betrothal just before supper and William and Buffy had been subject to congratulations from well-wishers.

Buffy took it all in her stride looking up at her fiancé with adoration in her eyes. Inside she was seething. He stood at her side looking proud as Punch when all he wanted was her money. Wanting her in his bed to him was a bonus and she had no intention of sharing one with him. She would enjoy their play-times though. In fact she enjoyed them very much. A blush stole over her face as she remembered their encounter in his carriage.

Looking down at Buffy, William noticed the blush on her cheeks. Bending down to her ear he whispered, “Wait ‘till I get you alone Luv. I can hardly wait to get you into my carriage. I promised to return the favour,” dropping his voice further he added “and I will enjoy it as much as you.”

Buffy could feel her womb clench in anticipation. William had moved his had to her back and rubbed slow circles with his palm. On occasion his fingers would brush over the top of her backside and she shivered every time.

William and Buffy had danced most of the evening. Waltzing with William had been a revelation. He had held her so close that every time they turned his thighs had brushed against her own. She knew she was in a high state of arousal and knew that it would not take much for William to complete her this evening. Hopefully they could leave soon

The Duke and Duchess of Craven had left just after supper, Lady Joyce claiming a headache. Worried that her mother appeared to be suffering more often of late of headaches, Buffy offered to return home with her mother. “Stay child,” her father had told her, “I will make sure your mother is comfortable.” Buffy had been left with no choice but to stay.

“Let’s get out of here Pet.” William said to her, “I can’t stay here any longer and not touch you.” His voice held an urgency she had not heard before.

“Your wish is my command my Lord.” William smiled down at her and offering her his arm they started to leave. It took more that thirty minutes to get into the carriage as so many people wished them happy.

Inside the carriage William wasted no time. He lifted her from her seat and pulled her into his arms. His mouth came down on hers with a purpose and Buffy felt herself get lost in his kiss. Plunging his tongue inside her mouth, Buffy answered with her own. She moved herself against him trying to get closer and felt the pins being removed from her hair as William fisted he hands into her locks. Buffy clung to him with all her strength. I could kiss this man forever she thought.

William manoeuvred Buffy so that she sat astride him. He lifted the hem of her dress so that she could comfortably sit on his lap with her knees either side of him on the seat. He could feel the heat of her pussy through his trouser and he was rock hard once more. Dampening down his own need he fought for control. This was all for Buffy and he would make it wonderful. He would make love to her with all the gentleness he could.

Moving his lips to her neck he started to nibble the sensitive spot just below her ear. He moved his lips to the shell of her ear and whorled his tongue inside. Holding tight to her waist to stop her falling from his lap, he continued his assault on her ear and throat. She was melting in his arms.

He started to kiss the hollow of her throat and slowly moved her back from him. Lifting his left hand from his waist he took hold of her right breast through the material of her gown. Feeling the bud tighten against his palm he wanted to taste it. Moving his hand inside her gown he deftly pulled her breast free. Pinching nipple lightly between his thumb and forefinger he watched her face. Buffy had thrown her head back and was moaning her pleasure.

“Want me to suck your titty my sweet?” William taunted her. “Do you want to feel my mouth around your sweet nipple?”

“God, yes,” she breathed.

William smiled and dropped his head. He took her pink nipple into his mouth softly and ran his tongue backwards and forwards. Sucking harder he drew her nipple to the edge of his lips and bit lightly. Buffy screamed her appreciation to the skies and William smiled. He removed her left breast from its confines and moved his lips to the nipple. Continuing to pinch the nipple of her right breast with his fingers he looked up into her face. Even in the darkness of the carriage he wondered at the beauty of her. Her hands were in his hair pulling him closer to her and her head was moving from side to side in pleasure, her unbound hair bouncing around. He loved when her hair did that, she looked so wanton and free.

He needed to see more of her, he wanted to see her body in candlelight and it needed to be soon. What a wedding night they would have, he hardened more at the thought.

“What do you want me to do now Luv?” he breathed into her ear.

She shocked him with her reply. “Play with my cunt William. Let me feel your magic fingers and tongue. Make it good for me baby.”

He would make it good all right. She would scream his name forever after tonight. He lifted her from his lap and moved her to the opposite seat.

“Lift your dress for me Luv, and take down your drawers. I want you bare before me Buffy.”

Smiling coyly at him, she lifted her dress. Standing slightly in the carriage she made herself comfortable. “No drawers tonight William; I wanted nothing between us too.” She sat back on the seat sighing as the cool leather came into contact with her skin.

William turned up the lamp inside the carriage. He watched fascinated as Buffy moved her hand between her legs and opened her pussy lips for him to see her better. “I think of you when I play with myself William. I think of your tongue pushing its way into me. I remember how it felt when you bite me and run your tongue so fast over my cunt.” Without thought her fingers started to play with herself. She moved her other hand to her breast and pinched her own nipple, her whole body moving forward in response. When she lifted her hand from her clit to her mouth and tasted her own juices William was sure he would explode.

He quickly dropped to his knees and pushed her fingers roughly away. “Mine,” he growled and putting his hands beneath her backside brought his prize to his mouth. He licked her slowly from the bottom to the top and then moved down towards her hole and pushed his tongue inside. She was so hot and wet and tight. He could feel how close to release she was as she swelled around his tongue. It was time to take this slow. Moving his lips to her clit he mouthed it gently as he brought his finger to the entrance of her womb. Slowly and with infinite care he pushed it inside. He was careful not to go too far as he wanted to take her virginity with his cock. Moving his finger in and out slowly while continuing to suck on her clit he decided on a new sensation for his woman.

Pulling his finger out slowly, he moved it around her pussy till it was coated in her juices. He moved his finger slowly down to her other entrance and ticked around the outside of her anus.

Buffy jerked uncontrollably on the seat. She could not believe he was touching her there, surely that was a taboo that even he would not cross. How wrong she was. He pulled her further towards him on the seat and lifted her so that he could move his mouth over her anus. He licked around and around and as he moved his mouth back to her clit he pushed his well lubricated finger inside her ass. As he moved the tip in and out he bit down lightly on her clit.

That was it as far as Buffy was concerned. She saw stars and her whole body convulsed around him. Her head was thrown back as she screamed his name into the night, then all was black.

She returned to consciousness slowly and looked down at Spike. Smiling down at him she took a deep breath before she could speak. “That was wonderful Spike, just wonderful.”

“Wasn’t it just Pet,” he replied and moved his body up to kiss her passionately. “I need to get you home now sweetheart before your father sends out the watch to look for us.”

Buffy wound her arms around his neck and pulled him close for another kiss. “Are you sure we could not drive round some more Spike. I don’t want to leave you just yet.”

“If you are sure sweetheart,” he agreed. “Nothing pleases me more than to please you.”

Smiling up at him in the glow of the lamp, she climbed on to his lap and cuddled into his chest. “Let’s drive and drive and never go home. We could lie like this forever and forget the world outside”

William hugged her closer and kissed her hair. “I know what you mean sweetheart but we will be together soon. Once we are married we will have this pleasure every night.” He placed a finger under her chin and lifted her face towards him. “You are mine Buffy and I will never let you go.”

Buffy made herself smile in response. “Yes Spike, yours.”

Chapter 15 – Always a pleasure

William walked Buffy to her door. “I don’t want to let you go Buffy.” He gripped her hand. “Let me come in and stay with you tonight.”

“I can’t Spike and you know that. My father would kill you.”

“Please baby, I just want to hold you tonight,” he pleaded. “I want to hold you while you sleep and keep you close to me. Please sweetheart, I will leave before morning and no one will know I was here.” He kissed her softly and she melted against him. “I will be as quiet as a mouse,” he whispered against her mouth. “Please baby.”

Buffy was sorely tempted, but she knew what sleeping in bed with him would lead to and she was determined that full intercourse would not happen. She intended to stay a virgin even after marriage. Once she had been married a few months she would get her marriage annulled citing her continued virginity as the cause. It was the only way to get her money back from him.

She forced a tremble into her voice, “I am too scared to let you stay Spike. I don’t want to be cause a scandal for my mother.”

William stepped back from her. “You’re right sweetheart, but I wish we could be married tonight so that I could hold you forever.” He leaned in to her lips once more, “you are mine Luv, now and forever”

“Yes Spike,” she replied. “Yours.”

“Good night my darling,” William said, “Dream of me Pet.” He walked back to his carriage and bid John to take him home.

Buffy had stood deliberately on the doorstep determined to hear where he intended to go. If he had said anywhere but home she would have invited him in and to hell with the consequences. Her money would not be spent on his whore, of that she was determined. She entered her home and went straight to bed.




William’s coach had travelled half the distance to his home when he changed his mind. He would go see Dru and enjoy the charms of his dark princess. Informing John Coachman of his change of plan he sat back on his seat to while away the time.

Arriving at Dru’s home he walked through his usual entrance not even looking if the silk was there. He followed his usual trail to her bedroom and opened the door. The sight before him defied belief. His dark princess was sitting astride some unknown man on her bed. She was facing the door and the man’s hands were rubbing her tits from behind as she bounced up and down on his cock. Looking up she noticed William at the door.

“My William,” she cooed, “join us?” she questioned.

“Not tonight I think Dru,” William said with anger in his voice. “Who is your new lover, do I know him?”

“I have to get my pleasure somewhere William.” Drusilla moved off her new lover as she spoke and walked towards him. “You smell of sunshine when you should be in the dark with me. You are covered in her William; I can smell her on you.” She closed in and ran her tongue quickly up his neck. “You smell of vanilla like your sunshine and she is taking you away from me.”

William grabbed her to him. “I love you Dru. She could never take me away from you, but I have to convince her to love me for our plans to work. She needs to get with child as soon as possible so I can pack her off to the estates up north. You know this Dru, why are you questioning me now.”

“Come to bed my prince and show me how much you love me”

He raised an eyebrow, “Bit crowded in there is it not Dru?”

She smiled at him. “Are you sure my prince. Marcus likes us both my sweet.” She moved her naked body sinuously against him and whispered in his ear. “How long since you felt a cock in you my prince. I know you like it.” She moved against him once more using her hand on his rising cock. “Let him touch you William. Let him in while you take me. It will like fucking both of you”

Marcus rose from the bed and stood behind William. Between Dru and he they both stripped William. Marcus dropped to his knees and pried the cheeks of William arse apart and pushed his tongue against the hole. Marcus pushed his fingers into Drusilla’s mouth and she sucked them slowly making sure they were wet. Dru knelt down beside Marcus and they both started to tongue him. Pushing his wet fingers into William’s arse he used his other hand to play with William’s balls.

William could not help the immediate erection Marcus’s actions were causing. He had been buggered at school, it was normal behaviour in English Public schools, but he preferred women. It was not often that he allowed himself to be in this position any more as he preferred to be in control. As Marcus added a second and a third finger into his anus, William gave himself over to the pleasure.

“Fuck me Marcus,” he said. “Fuck me hard”

“Lie on you side on the bed William and lift your pretty arse in the air.”

William did as he as bid and felt the blunt tip of Marcus’s cock push against his entrance. He made all the effort he could to relax his muscles to let Marcus in. Soon he was balls deep inside him. Dru moved to lie in with her back to William. She reached between her open legs and pulled his erect cock to her entrance and bore down. She timed her stokes to Marcus. William moved his hand between her legs to play with her clit. Marcus sped up as he was neared release and William knew he was not far away either. He rubbed harder at Dru’s clit to heighten her pleasure. All three came together in a rush and the air around them turned blue with their cries.

As Marcus withdrew from William he moved his head between Dru’s legs. “Let me clean this up for you madam,” he said. “I want to taste William and you together.” Dru moved on to her back allowing Marcus unlimited access to her pussy. She pulled William down to her mouth and kissed him hard. He kissed her back violently and moved his head down to her breast to suck hard while Marcus was busy between her legs. Drusilla came hard and screamed her pleasure to the roof.

Waiting a few seconds to recover Drusilla moved William on to all fours on the bed and licked Marcus’s spendings from his hole. While she was busy Marcus moved up towards William head and placed his dick at his mouth. “Clean me up William,” he commanded and watched as William opened his mouth and let him in.

Chapter 16 – Realisations

Lying in bed staring at the ceiling, William knew he had crossed the line. How could he face sweet innocent Buffy knowing what he had turned into? He had not let anyone bugger him since boarding school yet the night before he had welcomed it and even sucked cock. He had to break the engagement and soon.

The question in his mind was how the engagement could be broken when the announcement was in the papers that day. He had heard his man answer the door many times this morning; he knew that there would be many invitations on his study desk when he finally rose.

Maybe he should tell Buffy the truth. His mind quickly ruled that out. How do you start a conversation with an almost innocent girl in which you have to tell her how debauched you have become. He knew he had gone down too far to drag himself back up again. Could he become a better man?

He thought about his feelings for Buffy. He had known her but a few days yet she was on his mind constantly. Her beautiful green eyes haunted him, and the way she kissed could bring him to his knees. He had already gone further with her than he intended in such a short time. A few stolen kisses are all they should have shared and yet she had taken him to heaven and back with her mouth.

His mood brightened when he thought that he would only see her for one month of the year when she was packed away to the northern estates. He could carry on his debauched life with Dru and she would never need to know. Angelus only came home for one month a year and during that month he would go north to see his wife and bed her then.

A sudden thought came into his mind and he sat up abruptly. Drusilla was on her own for eleven months of the year and in that time she took many lovers including him. He was the only constant and he realised that he held this position because he was willing to share Dru’s charms.

It never occurred to him that he was the one being shared.

Would Buffy do that to him while he was away? He already knew what a sensuous creature she was. With a few lessons she would be a formidable lover. Anger rose within him. No man would touch Buffy but him, but how could he enforce such a regimen on her when he was not willing to part from Drusilla.

He realised that he did not want to give either woman up. He did not care that Drusilla shared her favours because he believed she loved him. Buffy on the other hand was a different matter. He could never share Buffy with anyone. He wanted to be her only lover.

What a coil he had managed to weave for himself. He knew in his heart that if he kept up his relationship with Dru he would eventually hurt Buffy and he could not do that.

Rising from the bed he made a decision. He would talk this out with Drusilla and hopefully she would be able to advise him.

Calling on Drusilla during daylight hours was not an easy matter. He could not go up to the front door and ask to speak to the mistress of the house. Maybe it would be best if he sent round a note asking her to meet him somewhere. The meeting place came to him in a flash; he would ask to meet her in the Green Park. Hardly anyone went there and they could meet and talk amongst the trees. With any luck they would not be seen.

Resolving to get this over with as quickly as possible he rang for his bath. Within minutes his valet had brought him coffee and scones and he quickly disposed of them while he waited for his bath to be filled.

Tenderly he sank into the bath. He was still sore from the evening before he resolved to take his curricle to the park and he did not think he would enjoy riding. Rising from his bath he wrapped himself in warm towels and called to his valet to get his writing materials. He must ask for this meeting quickly before he changed his mind.

Calling for John Coachman he handed the man his missive. John knew exactly where to deliver it, and after instructing him that he must await a reply, William allowed his valet to dress him. He wanted to look his best as he would visit Buffy as soon as he had finished with Dru.



Drusilla’s reply stated that she would meet him at the appointed time and hinted that they may do more than talk. He did not want to be with Drusilla just before meeting Buffy and he resolved to refuse her this time. It would not be easy but he did not feel he could go from Drusilla to Buffy in the same day. He wondered when he had grown a conscience as it had never been evident before.

As soon as his curricle was brought from the mews William strode from the house. Electing to drive himself he dismissed the groom and took the reins. He made quickly for the park.

He had to wait for Dru for over forty-five minutes before she finally appeared. He had started to get anxious that she would not come when he had noticed her black mare entering the park. Drusilla was dressed in the height of fashion in a deep red riding habit. Her hat had a veil which covered her face and he thanked the Gods that she had had the presence of mind to wear such an ornament today. If they were seen at least she would not be easily recognised.

She sat ram-rod straight in the saddle and he watched her as her head turned this way and that looking for him. When she spied him she cantered her mount towards him. Seeing him sitting in the curricle she laughed. “Can’t you ride today William?” she asked still laughing at him. “Saddle too hard today?”

William scowled at her and in a way was glad she had alluded to their activities of the night before. At least it would give him a starting point in the conversation.

“Hello Dru, you are looking charming today?”

“I know dearie,” she replied. “But I have to keep my skin covered at all times. I do not like the daylight. I was made for the dark.”

William took her meaning immediately. “Yes my love. You were definitely made for the dark”

Drusilla twittered at him prettily. “Why did you ask for us to meet here William, was last night not enough for you. Do you want me so much that we have to be in the open air amongst the cows?”

“I want to talk about last night Dru,” William spoke softly. “I cannot go ahead with this marriage knowing that I want to spend my nights with you and not my wife.”

Drusilla’s face distorted in anger and she spoke to William through gritted teeth, “Angelus is cutting my allowance William. I need money badly to pay some debts. Your new wife will bring you fifty thousand on the marriage and ten thousand a year thereafter. That will be more than enough for us to live on.”

William was appalled. “Us, Drusilla?” he queried, “We are not a couple. You are not free and you will not divorce him so why should I keep you?”

“Who do you think pays for your entertainments William?” Drusilla replied her voice rising in her anger. “Do you think that the entertainment you have received over the last few nights comes cheap? I need money William and you will get it for me from your whey-faced bride.” Drusilla drew a long breath and carried on. “You will marry the chit because I say so and you will still come to me each night. Bed your wife before you come to me if you must, but you will come to me.”

William stared at Drusilla in astonishment. She had never spoken to him in that way in the ten years they had been together. She had always seemed to be a bit soft in the head and that was what had drawn him to her. He had wanted to protect her from the world and keep her safe from harm. Where were the burning baby fishes now?

He made another attempt for her to see his point of view. “I love you Drusilla, but it against my honour to use my wife’s money to keep you.”

Drusilla threw her head back and laughed heartily. “Do you expect me to sleep with you for love William?” she drawled. She bent forward against her horses neck and almost spat at him in the curricle. “I own you William. You belong to me. You have belonged to me since you came to London as a green youth from the north. I made you William and I will never let you go.”

William was lost for words. He stared at her realising that she never loved him. She had used him for years to slake her lust while Angelus was away. He suddenly felt un-clean.

“I love you Drusilla, I have from the moment I set eyes on you.”

“You don’t love me you stupid boy. You love what we do in bed and you have become addicted to it. You think I care for you?” she spat at him, venom in her voice. “You’re beneath me William. You always have been and you always will be. You were a toy to be played with and you joined the game of your own will. I tell Liam how much of a lapdog you are and he laughs at you. I have told him of the things I make you do and how you enjoy every minute. You were made to be my plaything William and I am not ready to throw out my toy just yet.”

Anger like he had never felt before rose within William. “This liaison is at an end Drusilla. I never want to set eyes on you again in my life. You are a black-hearted bitch who has used me for years and I now realise that I let you.”

Drusilla laughed hard. “I give you a week of your simpering virgin and you will be back at my door for the pleasure I can give you.” She looked at him with a coldness in her eyes that he had never seen before. “You will never be able to give me up. I have made sure of that. You need me to survive William. You are nothing without me.”

With her comments ringing in his ears she turned her horse and rode from the park.

Chapter 17 – Bottom of the bottle



Lord Clement Telford arrived at Annandale House within an hour of receiving the summons from his friend. Will and Clem had been inseparable at University and the friendship had carried on through adulthood. Although Clem knew of his friend’s relationship with Lady Drusilla he knew better than to comment. Clem believed the woman was the devil incarnate and her husband was much worse. He had tried to warn his friend on many occasions that all was not as it should be with Will’s ‘Dark Princess’ and there had been times when William had not taken Clem’s advice in good part. A turn at Gentleman Jackson’s had usually settled any argument between them.

It was with an uneasy mind that Lord Telford climbed the steps to the Annandale mansion. If William’s note told the truth then he was about to meet a broken man. The bitch, it appeared, had finally broken her liaison with William after ten years and left a wreck in her wake. Clem knew that Drusilla had never really cared for his friend in all that time; she had only used him for her own nefarious ends. William had fallen under her spell and had spent too many years as her lapdog.

As he handed his great coat and hat to the butler Clem enquired after his master. With a nod towards the library Clem dragged himself to the door wondering what he would encounter on the other side. As on old friend he decided that he would not ask the butler to announce him as he knew that William would not wish the old retainer to see the state his master had allowed himself to get into. With a heavy heart he opened the door.

The sight before him stopped him in his tracks. William was sprawled across one of the library sofas obviously very drunk. The room stank of strong spirits and unwashed man. Clem made his way across to his friend and staring down at him he sighed. ‘What are we to do with you William?’ he whispered as he gently tried to rouse his drunken friend.

William opened one eye and it appeared to take a few minutes before he realised who was standing over the top of him. “Go away Clem” he growled “Leave me to die in peace”.

Clem stared for a few seconds at his friend and decided strong coffee was required. Moving over to the bell-pull beside the mantle to summon the butler, Clem ordered William to his feet.

“Get up man for God’s sake. We need to sober you up and quick”

When Clem heard the butler at the door he hurried over and blocked his entrance. “Coffee and lots of it Smithers and don’t let anyone but yourself deliver it.” The butler returned a knowing nod to his Lordship and in a familiar way used by servants who had been in their master’s employ for many years, informed Lord Telford that a bath was being prepared in Lord William’s rooms and his future bride and her family were due for dinner.

Clem stepped back from Smithers in shock. “His future what?” he asked.

“Lady Elizabeth Summers” Smithers informed him. “Daughter of the Duke of Craven Sir, the notice was in The Times this morning”

“No wonder he’s in his cups” replied Clem. Drawing a hand down his face in order to try and put his thoughts in order Clem started to give instructions.”

“Get coffee in here fast Smithers and I will try and get his lordship in some sort of order. Make sure his valet looks out his best clothes and make sure there is plenty of cold water to pour over the idiot’s head”

Looking round at the drunken heap on the sofa he started to plan. “Don’t tell his grace Smithers, you and I will get him sober before the chit arrives”

Smithers nodded and closed the library door as Clem turned towards his friend. He had to sober him up soon. William needed to look the part of the besotted fiancé not the emotional mess lying before him. With this in mind Clem put his hands on William’s shoulders and pulled him upright.

“What the hell do you think you are playing at William?” Clem shouted into William’s bloodshot eyes. “Pull yourself together man, your fiancé and her family will be here soon and you look like death.” Giving his friend a sound shake Clem felt like hitting him a facer.

The library door opened and Smithers entered carrying a tray with coffee. Laying it down on one of the side tables he began to pour. Walking over to the very angry Lord Telford he helped him to get William to drink the strong brew. After a few cups William started to pull himself together.

“Can’t face Buffy tonight” he mumbled. “Send them a note Clem and tell them not to come”

“There is no way in hell I am doing that William and what the hell is a Buffy?”

William found it hard to put a sentence together. “My Buffy, mine, mine, mine”

Clem turned to Smithers with questioning look and Smithers informed Lord Telford that Buffy was the Craven pet name for Lady Elizabeth.

“Right” Lord Telford replied, still none the wiser. “Let’s get this sorry excuse for a Lord upstairs and bathed before they arrive. With any luck Smithers we will get him sober as well”

Between Lord Telford and the Smithers William was dragged to his rooms. Inside his bath was waiting and his valet was standing by the bed with the clothes he chosen laid out. The three men stripped the drunken man and almost threw him into the bath. Jenson, the valet, took over at this point and helped his master to bathe.

“Get off me man” roared William. “I am not a child and can bathe myself. In fact why don’t you all fuck off and leave me here to drown in peace”

Jenson stared at William in trepidation. His master had never spoken to him like that before. He could not understand what had come over him.

Clem decided it was time to intervene. He asked both men to leave them alone for a few minutes and suggested that more coffee was required along with something to eat. “Bread and cheese will do. Will you see to it Smithers?”

Once both men had left Clem pulled up a chair next to the bath and sat down facing William. He could see that the coffee and the bath had started to have a sobering affect on his friend and questions poured into his mind. What he was not sure of was what to ask first.

Taking the bull by the horns, Clem started with the question of his friend’s engagement.

“Who is Buffy William?” he gently asked.

William stared for a few moments at his friend and smiled. “Buffy is my fiancé Clem. Father and the Duke of Craven wanted the match so we are engaged”

“How long have you known the chit William?”

“Four days my friend. Four days” William stared down into the water as if it held all the answers to life.

“Why are you marrying her William?”

Lifting his head, William looked his friend in the eye.

“For fifty thousand on the wedding day and ten thousand a year thereafter”

Clem sat back in his seat in shock.

“My God man, even I would marry for that” he exclaimed. “Is she ugly or deformed?”

Laughing William slid down into the tub and smiled at his friend.

“She is beautiful” William said softly. “She is my golden girl who tastes of Lemon and Peach and smells of roses and vanilla”

Staring at the sobering man in the tub, Clem could not resist asking the question.

“If she is as beautiful as you say William why are you so far in your cups that I am having a devil of a time sobering you up?”

William closed his eyes for a few seconds and decided that his friend deserved as much of the truth as he could give him.

“This is a marriage of convenience Clem. I do not love her and probably never will. Her father wants me to bed her and get her with child. To be honest my father wants that as well need to beget an heir and all that. Once she is with child I am to send her to the Annandale estates in the north whilst I stay in London and spend her fortune. Craven will send his wife and other daughter to the estates to keep Buffy amused while I am in London.” William stared at his friend. “Craven wants his wife out of London so that he can keep time with his mistress.” Staring down at the water once again he carried on in a small voice. “The only stipulation was that I was not to embarrass his daughter with any talk of Dru. I was to visit her for a month each year on the estates and get her with child.”

Clem’s mouth fell open in disbelief. “Do you have any idea how many men in the ton would kill for that type of marriage? My God man rakes and libertines would be at her heels in droves if they knew her father was bartering away his daughter’s freedom for his pleasure with a lightskirt.

“I know Clem,” William started to rise from a little shakily from the tub. “Tis the perfect gentleman’s agreement.” Swaying slightly William stepped from the tub and moved to dry himself with the towels laid out by the fire.

At that moment Smithers entered the bedroom with the coffee and sandwiches. “Do you require anything else My Lord?”

“No Smithers, thank you” replied William. “I will ring for Jenson when I am ready to get dressed.” With a small nod of his head, Smithers retired from the room.

Wrapped in warm towels and feeling slightly less giddy, William moved to a chair beside the fire and sat down. He poured himself and his friend a cup of coffee and Clem moved f to the chair at the opposite side of the fire. Between them they started to eat.

Leaving his friend for a few minutes to finish his repast, Clem went over in his head the marriage arrangement his friend had embarked upon. He could not understand why William was so upset. He should be jumping for joy. More questions were definitely called for.

“Tell me why you are so down my friend” Clem asked gently. “Is the thought of bedding the chit too much?” Clem could see no other reason for this melancholy.

William laughed. It was not a happy sound. “No Clem I would bed the chit now if she were here. She is too tempting for words and I can’t keep my hands off her”

Clem stared at William in shock. “Have you already bedded the chit?” he asked.

“No” William replied. “But we have come pretty close.” He smiled at his friend in a knowing way and Clem knew better than to continue with the subject.

“It’s Dru that’s brought me to this Clem” William stared into his empty coffee cup and decided that he had to carry on with his explanations. Buying himself a little more time before he voiced his problems he poured himself more coffee.

Taking a deep breath William looked at his friend. “Drusilla has never loved me Clem” There the statement had been said and William wondered why it did not hurt as much as he thought it would. He must be still drunk he thought.

Clem waited for him to carry on. He knew this was not the time for questions but the time for answers.

“I decided that I loved Dru too much to take on a marriage, even if it seems to be manna from heaven. I like Buffy, I like Buffy a lot and I did not want to leave her bed to go to Dru or leave Dru’s bed to go to Buffy. I was so confused and I decided to talk it over with Dru and maybe find a way to stop the engagement.”

William looked his friend in the eye. “I met Dru in the Green Park this morning to talk it over with her.” Clem watched as tears came into his friend’s eye. “She told me that I had to marry as she needed Buffy’s money to pay her debts. She told me she never loved me and that I was her toy to play with as she pleased.” William’s voice dropped to a whisper. “She told me I was nothing and that she created me into the creature I am today and that she owned me. Then she laughed at me Clem and turned and rode away. I came straight back here, wrote you that note to come and see me and promptly fell into a bottle or two of whiskey.”

Shocked at his friend’s tale Clem rose from his chair and laid a hand on his friend’s shoulder.

“You need to pull yourself together William before your fiancé arrives.” Clem made his voice stern. “You will call for Jenson and make yourself presentable. You will go down to dinner and charm the Summers family en masse. I will stay to dinner this evening and help you out.”

Staring at his friend William could not keep the gratitude from his face.

“Thanks Clem. I don’t think I could face them tonight on my own.”

“What are friends for William?” Clem replied. “Now I need to send a note to Faith to let her know her benefactor will not see her tonight as planned”

William smiled at his friend.

“She has been your mistress for years Clem, have you not had enough of her yet?”

“Don’t think I ever will” Clem smiled in reply. “The woman can do things with her mouth that could get you hanged. I am sure sometimes she is trying to suck out my soul”

The friends laughed in unison and Clem knew that he had managed to sort out his friend for a little while.

“Time to get dressed William and face the new ‘family’”.

Chapter 18 – Acting the part




William stared at himself in the mirror. He looked liked and felt like death. His heart was torn in two and he had to go downstairs to meet his bride-to-be and her family. Christ! How had it come to this? He had been willing to live like a pauper as long as could keep his dark princess and all the time the bitch had been using him.

Turning to Clem, William remarked “I don’t believe a word Dru said Clem she’s just upset that I said I would break the engagement”.

Clem stared at William in disbelief and could not believe his ears. Was the man mad! Drusilla was an evil bitch and William still wanted her. He could not understand him.

It was time to take William’s mind off Drusilla.

“Do you think you will be happy with Buffy, William?” Clem asked.

“I don’t want to talk about Buffy, Clem. I need to talk to Drusilla”. William turned an anguished look at Clem. “I have to get her back. I can’t live without her.”

That statement was more than enough for Clem.

“You idiot of a man, Will,” Clem cried. “Drusilla is a total bitch and everyone knows she has used you for years.”

William was across the room in seconds with his hands around Clem’s throat.

“You know nothing about it Clem. Our love was eternal, forever”

Calmly Clem removed William’s hands.

“It’s time you grew up William.” Clem looked him directly in the eye whilst rubbing his throat. “The woman is a menace and you know she never stayed faithful to you.” Clem moved closer to him until the words were spat in his face. “Good God man, half The Ton has been inside her and she tells the world what a lapdog you are.”

William reared back from his friend. He could not, would not believe what Clem was telling him. It was just wrong. Drusilla had to love him the way he loved her.

“I’m not going to see the Craven’s tonight Clem.” William cried. “I am going to see Dru and get this sorted out.”

Clem grabbed William around his biceps.

“Don’t be stupid man, “ he growled at William. “You have a fiancé who will be here in minutes and you need to be there to greet her.”

Pointedly looking at Clem’s hands gripping his arms, William whispered “Let me go Clem. I have to see Dru”

Shaking his friend as hard as he could Clem sneered at him. “For God’s sake William, not now.” He removed his hands before he throttled his friend. He was sorely tempted to wring the life from his body.


“You have to get ready to meet Craven and his brood and you need to do it now. If you must see Drusilla at least wait until the Craven’s have gone. Don’t give up everything for a…”

“For a what Clem, finish your sentence.” William’s voice held more threat than Clem had ever heard from his friend. “Go on Clem. Tell me ‘what’ you think Drusilla is?”

Clem slowly shook his head. He knew he was not going to win this argument and it would be best to back down from any confrontation.

“Look William,” he tried to reason with him. Inspiration struck. “Maybe Drusilla will be more amenable if you tell her the wedding is definitely on. Let her think that Craven money will start to come her way.”

A huge grin spread across William’s face. “You’re right, Clem.” William continued to smile.

“All I need to do is convince her that we will be rolling in the soft stuff and she will love me again.”

Turning from the gleam in his friend’s eyes, Clem moved towards the mirror to fix the damage William had done to his cravat. He could not stand to listen to any more of William’s prattle, for prattle it was.

William walked towards Clem and bumped him out of the way to get to the mirror.

“Let’s get this show on the road Clem.” William smiled at his reflection. “Time to woo my bride.”

######

“The Duke and Duchess of Craven, Lady Elizabeth Summers, Lord Alexander Summers.” The butler introduced the family from the open door of the drawing room. Striding past the past the butler, Craven made his way to the centre of the room.

“Annandale,” he greeted his friend and fellow conspirator. “I hope I find you well?”

Annandale smiled at his old school friend. “Very well, thank you Henry. This engagement has done me the world of good”

“I, too” Craven replied.

While the friends caught up near the fireplace, Buffy and her family moved to the centre of the room. Wondering why William was not there to meet her, Buffy slowly looked around.

“Your Grace,” she addressed William’s father. “When will William be joining us?”

Buffy tried to sound eager when she really wanted not to see William tonight.

Annandale smiled at Buffy. “His friend, Clem, called earlier my dear. I am sure they will both be down at any moment”

Buffy smiled in reply.

Her plans were backfiring. The more she was in William’s company, and the more they played, the more she found that she was developing feelings for him. This was not what she wanted or desired. Feelings were not part of her plan. She had already decided that she would see him as little as possible before the wedding. Surely the feelings would stop then.

Walking towards Xander, she smiled at her brother. Xander smiled back with affection at his sister. He loved her very much and was not happy with this match. He knew of William’s reputation, and he knew more about Lady Drusilla Angelus than cared to admit. Xander and Drusilla had been intimate on many occasions and he knew the pleasure the woman could bring to a man. He wondered if William would give her up for Buffy. He seriously doubted it. Xander only used her for sex, there were no feelings involved. His heart beat only for Lady Cordelia Chase, the sister of one of his friends. He would be making his intentions clear in that direction at the end of the season, however a man had needs and Drusilla was always willing.

Lady Joyce moved to stand by her two eldest children. She had learned long ago not to interrupt her husband when he was in conference with another. The arguments were never worth it and they seemed to make her headaches worse.

Looking at her daughter with concern, Joyce could not help but wonder why her daughter was determined to marry someone she did not love. Joyce had married for love and indeed still loved her husband. Maybe that was why she was so unhappy because she knew her husband no longer loved her. She suspected, quite strongly, that Henry had a mistress but she dared not ask. Loving a man who did not love you was so hard.

Before she could speak the drawing room doors opened and William entered with Clem. Buffy stared at him as he walked towards her. He really was the most beautiful man she had ever seen. Resisting him was becoming harder every day.

William stopped in his tracks. He was experienced enough to know when a woman wanted him and he was pretty sure that Buffy was very attracted to him. This was going to be so easy. His mind drifted to Dru and how she would be so sorry for hurting him and she would beg to get him back once she was sure that the wedding would go ahead.

Smiling at the thought, he looked Buffy in the eye. “Hello cutie” he said as he lifted her hand to his lips.

Buffy was sure the smile was for her.

Still holding her hand he drew it through his arm and led her towards Clem.

“Let me introduce you to my best friend darling.” Buffy stiffened at the endearment. He had never called her anything except Buffy before. William noticed and held her arm tighter against him.

“Lord Clement Telford, I am pleased to introduce Lady Elizabeth Summers”

Clem bowed from the waist. He was stunned. Elizabeth Summers was, without doubt, one of the most beautiful women he had ever seen. What in God’s name did William want with Drusilla when he would have this beauty in his bed every night? Mentally shaking his thoughts away, he smiled at his friend’s intended.

“Pleasure to meet you ma’am.”

“Please Lord Clement” Buffy smiled at him and held out her hand, “call me Buffy.”

Raising her hand to his lips, Clem decided that he was half in love with this beauty himself.

William, noticing the adoring look on is friends face, knew that Buffy was a hit with Clem.

“And you, my Lady Elizabeth” Clem replied, “must call me Clem.”

Gently removing her arm from William’s grasp she turned to introduce her brother to the two men.

“Gentlemen, may I introduce my brother Lord Alexander Summers.” Buffy smiled at her brother lovingly. “Xander, I would like you to meet my fiancé Lord William Whitmore and his friend Lord Clement Telford”

Xander extended his hand towards each man in turn. As he took William’s hand he squeezed tighter than was polite. William noticed and raised his brow at him. Looking him in the eye, Xander requested that William join him somewhere quiet.

Buffy looked at her brother with concern. She could not understand why Xander would wish to speak to William alone. She hoped he was not about to scupper her plans. This marriage must go ahead so that she could be free.

“Xander” Buffy said in a quiet voice. “What do you think you are doing?”

Turning to his sister he replied, “Why, nothing Buffy” Xander’s face was a picture of innocence. “I just thought I would speak to your intended, man to man.”

William recognised a challenge in the whelp’s voice. Better to get this over with now.

“Join me in the Library, Alexander” William knew that the boy would not like the use of his full name and he was determined to intimidate him. “We shall have a glass of brandy together.” Turning to Clem, he asked “Look after Buffy and her grace for me Clem, this will take but a moment.”

He handed Buffy over to Clem with dignity and gestured with his head towards the door. Xander followed.

####

Smiling up at Clem, Buffy tried to hide her anxiety. Xander had always been protective of both herself and Dawn and she knew that he was not happy with this union. She dared not tell him of her plans and she hoped he would not say anything to put William off.

He HAD to marry her.

Chapter 19 – A Brother’s Love

[A/N – thank you all for reviewing. I would like to send a message to all the guys who have skipped over to AFF to read the other chapters and reviewed me there – please review me here too. I need it. Reviews most definitely my little fingers work faster and if I get enough reviews I might put up more of the story. Come on people, let’s support this site and its authors.]




William and Xander entered the library together. Making straight for the brandy on a side table, William silently lifted the decanter in offering to Xander. Nodding his acquiescence, Xander moved towards one of the large chairs near the lit fire and sat.

Taking his time pouring the brandy into two goblets, William pondered on what the whelp was going to say. He was definitely not in the mood for this tonight. All he wanted to do was leave them all sitting in the drawing room while he sought out his dark princess. She would make up their quarrel of that he was sure.

“Well,” questioned William as he handed over the brandy goblet. “What have you to say for yourself Alexander?”

Accepting the goblet gracefully, Xander took a long sip before contemplating the man before him.

“Quite a lot, Whitmore” Xander replied lifting the glass to his lips for another sip.

Xander looked at William for a few moments as he contemplated his drink “Sit down man. I think we have a few things to discuss”

William doubted he would ever discuss anything with Buffy’s brother, but politeness endured. He slowly made his way to the opposite seat and once seated sipped his brandy.

Staring Xander in the eye, he lifted his scarred eyebrow.

“Do we?” William inquired. “I find that hard to believe. I have made your sister an offer which she and your father accepted. Why should you be concerned?”

Xander’s face turned a brick red. “She is my sister Whitmore,” Xander spat at William. “And I cannot believe that my father would want her to marry someone like you”

William’s eyes narrowed as he looked at the man in front of him.

“And what, pray tell, is a man like me.”

“Why a rake and a libertine, of course,” Xander was in full flow now. “Good God man, the whole ton knows of your exploits with the likes of the Angelus woman. Not to mention the number of other women you have bedded”

Trying hard to keep hold of his temper at the obvious disdain in which Xander held Drusilla, William took a deep breath to steady his nerves. He was going to have to lie and lie convincingly to the whelp or all his plans would be in vain.

“Do they not say that there is none as faithful as a reformed rake Alexander” William looked at his future brother-in-law in all innocence.

“They do indeed Whitmore,” agreed Xander. “However I do not believe that you are reformed at all”

Struggling to keep his temper in check once more, William replied blandly.

“I assure you Alexander, I am totally reformed. I love your sister very much and fully intend to make her happy.”

Xander stared in disbelief at William.

“You honestly expect me to believe that. Good god man, are you telling me that you would give up the many pleasures a woman like Drusilla Angelus can bring you for an un-tutored, just out of the schoolroom miss?”

William was on his feet in a moment ready to strike out at the whelp before him.

“You dare to question me on my intentions when you know nothing of the relationship between Buffy and I.” William wondered where this statement came from. He should be defending Drusilla’s honour, not Buffy’s, after all it was Drusilla he loved.

Xander rose from his chair.

“You are correct Whitmore, I do not know what type of relationship you have with my sister, but I will tell you this.”

Moving forward, Xander stood directly in front of William. “My sister is the most precious thing in my life and if you hurt her in any way, any way at all, I will find you and kill you.” Xander refused to step down from the intimidating look he received from William. “I swear this on my sister’s life.”

William quickly decided that he needed to keep his head and not retaliate. It was going to be hard as at that moment he wanted to rip out the whelp’s rib cage and wear it as a hat.

“Buffy and I will be married within the month Alexander whether you approve or not. However if you wish to continue to visit your sister once she moves into this house you had better heed me now.” William dropped his voice to its most menacing as he continued, “If you try and interfere and sway the plans that I and your father, and to some extent Buffy herself, have made you will not need to find me at all as I will be looking for you”

Xander took a step back from the menace in William’s voice.

Bluffing against the sudden fear he felt, Xander replied. “And I will easily be found Whitmore as I do not trust you in the slightest. At the first hint of scandal involving either you or my sister and we will be meeting at dawn.”

William stared at Xander for a few seconds before he bowed his head quickly in acquiescence.

Xander did not feel they had cleared the air at all. “How much is my father paying you to marry my sister, Whitmore?”

Caution was called for here. William had no intention of discussing the wedding contract with Xander.

“The wedding contract is none of your business, Xander. “ William growled. “An offer was made and accepted. All parties are in agreement and that is all you need to know.”

Not to be intimidated, Xander repeated his question.

“Listen man, your father wants this match very much. My father is also determined this marriage go ahead as planned. It has gone too far to be stopped now.”

William took a deep breath. His head was hurting from the whiskey he had imbibed earlier in the day and the last thing he was in the mood for was an argument.

“I will treat your sister like a queen, Xander. She is a beautiful woman and deserves to be treated with respect.”

Turning red in the face once more, Xander again went on the attack.

“Respect! How can you talk about respect when you spend any free time you have with the Angelus woman? Good God, William, how can you bring disgrace to our family with that liaison.” Xander took a deep breath before he continued. He was not intimidated by the look of fury in William’s eyes.

“Buffy will surprise you yet, Whitmore. She will not take disgrace lightly.” Xander lowered his voice as he continued. “Buffy will not accept the normal behaviour of the ton and accept that her husband has a mistress. She will kill you if you disgrace her.”

William laughed hard and long. “I am sure that is not the case, Xander. She would find it quite difficult to kill me.”

Xander smiled a knowing smile before he answered William’s laughter ridden comment.

“If you wish to believe that, Whitmore, then I wish you happy in your marriage.”

“Now we have cleared the air Alexander, I think we should return to the drawing room before someone sends out a search party,” William asked.

Xander nodded his agreement and preceded William to the library door.

Chapter 20 – Making up


William could see the concern on Buffy’s face as he and Xander entered the drawing room after their tête-à-tête. Everyone had turned in the direction of the door as the men walked through. Ignoring everyone present, William walked directly to Buffy and lifted her hand to his lips.

“Missed me Luv?” he questioned in his sexiest voice. He could feel her hand tremble in his and knew instinctively that she had been worried. He sought to reassure her. “Everything’s fine sweetheart,” he smiled at her trying to banish her fears. “Your brother just wanted to know that I wanted to marry you, and I do Buffy, I want to marry you very much indeed.”

Buffy let out a strangled breath. She had known the minute that Xander wanted a word with William that her brother has gone into protective mode and was ready for a confrontation.

Looking up at her fiancé’s eyes, Buffy tried to look for the lie behind the words. She knew he did not love her and that he was only marrying her for money, but she would have given anything for his love to be real. Deep down she knew that she was starting to fall in love with this man and that in doing so she would only bring heartbreak.

Pulling herself together she took a deep breath and replied.

“Xander can be a trifle over-protective towards both Dawn and I, William. I’m sorry he wanted to talk to you about our wedding.”

Smiling once again at Buffy, William knew just the words to reassure her.

“I would do the same if I had a sister, especially if she looked as beautiful as you do tonight.” Wincing slightly to himself, William wondered if he was turning the charm on a trifle thick. He needed Buffy to have no doubts about this marriage. He watched as the most beautiful smile lit her whole face.

“Thank you, William” she replied. “You are so good to me you know.”

Deciding a little flirting was in order, William brought his mouth to her ear.

“If we ever get the chance to be alone tonight sweetheart,” he breathed. “I would be very good to you”

He straightened, and was pleased to see the look of arousal on her face. Buffy would be a wonderful bed partner and he would still be able to enjoy Dru’s charms. He hoped she would not breed too soon as he thought he might like to enjoy her for a while before sending her away.

####

The rest of the evening took its normal course. Dinner was served and the table conversation revolved around estate management and the up-coming wedding.

The Duke of Annandale was seated at the top of the table with his son directly opposite. Buffy had been placed to Williams’s right and Lord Telford to his left. The conversation between the four sparkled, ripples of hearty laughter was heard from their end of the table on a number of occasions.

William was pleased that Clem appeared to have taken a liking to Buffy, but it was tinged with a touch of darkness. Was Clem intending to make a claim to Buffy once William had got his heir. He had already decided that once his heir had been born he would allow Buffy to go her own way just as he intended to do, yet he did not feel easy with this decision now.

Staring at his plate he wondered why he cared. His heart belonged to Drusilla and always would, yet this blonde chit was starting to get under his skin. He liked too much about her to put her totally out of his mind. He enjoyed the smell of vanilla that seemed to follow her. He enjoyed the way she kissed and he really enjoyed the way she sucked cock. A vision of her doing that to another man entered his head and he was startled at the feeling of revulsion he felt.

Clem noticed the sudden change in his friend and enquired. “Something amiss Will?”

“No, No Clem” William was determined to placate his friend. “My mind was miles away there for a moment.”

Thinking he knew exactly where his friend’s mind had been, he gave William a pointed look as he replied. “With someone as beautiful as your future bride beside you Will, I fail to see what could have taken you mind away.”

William knew immediately where Clem’s thoughts lay and was determined to put him at ease. “I was thinking of Buffy, Clem and how wonderful she looks tonight.”

As soon as William had finished his reply, Clem knew not to take this subject any further lest Buffy realise the undercurrent of their conversation.

“Well I have to agree with you there, Will” Clem replied. “Your fiancé is one of the most beautiful flowers gracing the ton this season. I envy you your bride Will, I really do”

Buffy blushed prettily at the compliment and looked down at her plate. She did not notice the pointed look that Clem gave William at that moment. To William it was obvious that Clem really liked Buffy and could not understand his obsession with Drusilla.

Fuck you, thought William. He would speak to Drusilla tonight and get this misunderstanding sorted out so he could carry on his affair.

As they had been friends for years, Clem knew exactly what William was thinking but decided it was too dangerous to take this any further. Turning to Buffy, Clem decided to change the course of the conversation.

“So Buffy, would you like to take a turn in the park tomorrow with William and I?”

Buffy smiled mischievously at Clem.

“Why, Lord Clement, if I did not know better I would swear you were flirting with me” Buffy’s smile grew wider as a definite blush came over Clem’s face.

Clem stammered in reply, “Sorry, did not mean to imply….”

William stepped into the breach.

“I think a turn around the park is a wonderful idea Clem” he smiled at his friend’s embarrassment. Turning to Buffy, he asked “Do you think that Lady Dawn would like to join us Buffy?”

If it was possible, Buffy’s smile grew even wider and made her eyes sparkle bright green in the light of the candles.

“I believe she would enjoy that very much. Thank you William for being so thoughtful”

William felt pride in himself that it took so little to please her. Pleasing Dru was not as simple. He had to be inventive in bed to please his dark princess and even then she would look elsewhere on occasion to heighten her desires.

At the end of the meal the ladies retired to the drawing room for tea as the men enjoyed their port and cigars.

The Duchess was still concerned with her daughter’s choice for a husband and Buffy’s determination that this would never be a love match. She worried that Buffy would not be able to keep William at bay as easily as she thought it would be. Joyce knew how easily a man could manipulate a woman to his desires and wished her husband still visited her bed, even once in a while.

As she passed her daughter a cup of tea she remarked, “I really enjoyed Lord Telford’s company tonight. What a nice young man he seems to be” Secretly Joyce believed that Buffy would be happier with a man like Clem. No matter how little she went into society, Joyce recognised the type of man William was and how easily her little girl could be hurt. She did not think Clem would hurt her in the way William would. It had been easy to tell that he had taken a shine to Buffy and was determined to make her feel special.

Buffy knew the road down which her mother’s thoughts were travelling. In truth she could see the sense of a union with Clem, but she was as determined that she would marry William, and destroy him.

Smiling at her mother to reassure her, Buffy replied “Yes mother, Clem was indeed good company this evening.”

Before the conversation could go any further the drawing room door opened and the men entered.

As the tea was poured for everyone, William decided it was time to take it up a notch with Buffy. Handing her a cup he asked her if she would like to see the family portraits in the long gallery.

Buffy knew that William did not wish to show her any portraits and was using this as an excuse to be alone with her, she was not adverse to the idea at all.

Turning her face up to his, Buffy nodded her head.

“I would enjoy that very much, William” giving him another of her wonderful smiles, she continued “I would very much like to see them”

William immediately removed her cup from her grasp and replaced it on the tray. Holding out his hand he nodded to her to take it. Buffy did so and with a glance around the room she bid them farewell for a short while as she left the room on William’s arm.

Chapter 21 – Meet the Ancestors.






As soon as the door closed behind them, William took a quick look around the hall to ensure their privacy and hauled her into his arms for a kiss.

Buffy flung her arms around his neck and pressed herself against him.

Both opened their mouths at the same time and their tongues met in a fury. William sucked Buffy’s tongue into his mouth and stroked it roughly with his. God, she tasted sweet. When Buffy sucked his tongue into her mouth and did the same to him, he growled.

Breaking away to breathe, William transferred his lips to her ear and the sensitive spot just behind it where he knew she liked to be kissed. Buffy ground herself against him at the sensations he built within her. His erection was immediate and he thrust back against her.

Lifting his head from her neck he kept her close as he stared down into her eyes. Her pupils had fully dilated leaving only a ring of green around the edge. Her lips were wet and swollen from their kiss and a very becoming blush covered her cheeks.

“Follow me pet” he whispered to her as moved to her side. He kept hold of her hand as he led her towards the long gallery. It was a good choice for an encounter. There were many sofas along the walls opposite the family portraits.

Buffy’s lineage was as old as William’s. She had no interest whatsoever in looking at badly painted portraits of ancestors long dead and gone. There was a similar gallery in her own home and she never went there for pleasure.

Somehow she knew that she would receive pleasure tonight.

As they entered the gallery, the first thing she noticed was how dim the light was in the room. She wondered to herself what pleasures she would find in the dark this evening. Holding William’s hand tighter, she moved closer to him.

“Do you really want to show me your ancestors, Spike” she drew out the syllables of her pet name for him knowing that he would take her meaning.

Smirking down at her, William replied. “Of course not Pet. I brought you here so that I could play with your titties and taste that glorious cunt of yours.”

Buffy could feel her sex swell at his words and start to get wet in anticipation.

“And what would I play with Spike once you had had your fill.”

Hauling her towards him once more he fisted his left hand in her hair as his right hand slid round her back to hold her close to him.

“You can play with anything you like sweetheart” he curled his tongue behind his teeth and Buffy could feel her sex get even wetter.

“Let’s go right down the end of the room sweetheart where we won’t be disturbed.” He dropped a rough kiss to her lips and they both ran as one to the end of the long gallery holding hands and laughing like children.

Once they had arrived at the last sofa in the room, William pulled Buffy towards him again and placed a loving kiss on her mouth.

“Lift your skirts to your waist, Pet and sit on the sofa with your legs spread wide” he ordered. “Let me see my pussy in all its glory.”

Buffy did not even hesitate in lifting her skirts and petticoats to do exactly as he ordered. She sat down facing him and spread her legs wide as she let her hands drop to her sides and laid her head against the back of the sofa.

Christ, William thought. She is beautiful like that. A mixture of innocence and wanton….and his.

Dropping immediately to his knees he manoeuvred himself between her open legs. He lifted his hands to place them gently on either side of her face and pulled her towards him for a kiss.

Their mouths melded together. Each touch of their tongues was bringing them closer together and building the heat between them. William ground his cloth covered erection against her centre and relished her movements against his crotch as he allowed the friction she desperately sought.

Incoherent sounds came from her throat. God, he loved the noises she made when she needed to come. Slowly her drew back from her and removed the source of her pleasure. The expression on her face was wonderful as she pouted at him in her displeasure.

“Look at that lip” he smiled at her. “Gonna get it” he said as he leaned in to bite her bottom lip gently. He continued to play her mouth like a maestro as he lifted his hands to her breasts.

Her dress was in the way. He wanted to hold her tits in his hand. Gently moving his hand inside the neck of her dress he lifted her breasts from their confinement. Sitting back on his heels he looked at her in all her glory. Her tits were lying bare to his gaze over the top of her neckline and her legs were still wide open displaying her soft, wet and swollen folds to him.

“Effulgent” he said, almost in a whisper.

Buffy lifted her head to look at him, and she softly smiled. Taunting him, she brought her hands to her breasts and started to play with her nipples. She could feel them harden under her ministrations and she tweaked them roughly. William watched her display with pleasure.

“Let me Luv” he whispered to her. “I need to taste them. They deserve a kiss or two, just like their mistress.”

Bending his head he took a nipple into his mouth and lifted his hand to its twin. He licked softly around the hard nub before drawing it softly into his mouth. Gently he bit down, while at the same time he rubbed her other nipple in time to his bites.

Buffy threw her body back in delight. This man knew how to pleasure a woman. She could feel her womb clench and was aware that she needed his hand on her mound.

William was determined to keep Buffy on the edge as he moved his mouth between her breasts. They tasted wonderful and he wondered how they would taste covered in his come. He grew harder at the thought. That was for another time. She could hardly go back to her parents with her dress covered in his spendings however he would do that to her soon when they had a chance to clean up after them. For now all fluids had to be swallowed. No hardship there, he thought.

“Spike…” Buffy breathed. He ignored her and continued to worship her breasts. “Spike” she cried a little louder, this time he lifted his head and smiled at her.

“Yes Luv” he asked innocently.

Buffy growled at him. “Get your mouth on my cunt now before I twist your fucking head off.”

William sat back on his heels and laughed out loud. God, he loved the way she was trying to domineer him. She was so small and frail yet at that moment she looked as though she was ready to kill him.

“Your wish is my command sweetheart” he softly said to her as he moved his hands to her hips to pull to the edge of the sofa and closer to his mouth.

Giving her a long slow lick from her small puckered hole to her clit with a little dip into her hole, he lifted his head and placed his chin on her mound as he smiled up at her.

“Is that what you wanted kitten?”

Buffy’s reply was to fist her hands into his hair and hold him still as she ground her cunt into his mouth.

“Lick it, Spike” she growled at him. “Lick it till I tell you to stop.”

William did as he was told and duly used every skill he possessed to bring this golden creature to completion. She had the most marvellous taste. Clean, fresh and like the ripest fruit. For a moment the memory of Dru’s taste entered his head and he shook his head to dispel it. Aged musk had no place at this moment. He wanted lemons and peach; tart and sweet at the same time.

His cock was rock hard and all he wanted to do was sink himself into Buffy’s virgin hole. To be truthful at this moment he would not care which virgin hole he put it in as long as he could fuck her. He decided it was time to finish her off so that she could see to him. He moved one of his fingers inside her and started to stroke gently in and out as he sucked hard on her clit.

Buffy writhed beneath his ministrations. Good God, but this man had made her crave his touch. She could feel her orgasm building. Her toes had started to curl inside her slippers and her legs had started to go rigid. William felt her muscles tighten around his finger and her clit get harder beneath his mouth. Deciding it was time to end this, he twisted his hand and searched for the little bundle of nerves inside her. He knew the moment he found it when she screamed to the rafters in orgasm and his face was covered in the juice ejaculated from her pussy. He had heard that women could lose as much fluid as a man, but he had never seen it happen. Slowly he brought her down by licking her clean.

Buffy realised that something special had happened but she did not realise what it was. Shyly she looked at William and noticed that his face was covered in her come.

“What happened Spike?” she asked nervously. “Did something go wrong?”

William smiled at her as he drew his handkerchief from his pocket and proceeded to clean his face.

“Nothing went wrong Luv” he continued to smile at her once he finished cleaning his face. “You just had a bigger than usual orgasm sweetheart and your wonderful pussy,” he ran his fingers lightly over said pussy as he spoke to her “was just giving me a mouthful of your essence. It was telling me it was mine Luv. All mine.”

He looked at her intently as he said this.

“Your pussy is mine Buffy. No one will touch you except me. Do you understand me Luv?”

Buffy stared into his eyes and recognised that he meant it. He would not let anyone near her. She was to be his and his alone. She smiled at him.

“Yours Spike” she told him “only yours”

William pounced on her and pushed her to lie on the sofa. He lifted his body to lie on top of her and ground his rock hard erection into her centre. Watching Buffy throw her head back in ecstasy as he held her close to him, a smile appeared on his face.

“Do you love me Buffy?” he whispered in her ear. “Tell me you love me sweetheart, please.”

Two sentences. Two sentences were enough to bring her out of her sexual haze. Gently she pushed at William’s chest to make it clear he was to move away. He took the hint and slowly lifted his body from her.

“What’s wrong Luv?” William asked. He should not have asked her if she loved him. He did not know why he wanted to hear her say she did. His purpose was to get the chit to love him and he wondered why he cared about her reply. He lifted her to her feet and placed her before him and started to help her fix her clothing.

Buffy knew she would have to lie. She was determined this marriage would take place and if it meant that she lied about loving him, then so be it.

“Of course I love you Spike”

She leaned into him and kissed him gently on the mouth. When she felt him start to respond and try to take the kiss deeper, she slowly drew back from him.

Looking into his eyes with what she hoped looked like adoration on her face, she said,

“Do you want me to show you how much?”

Chapter 22 – Interruptions


AN* - To all who have reviewed so far, I bless you all from the bottom of my heart.

With that in mind – on with the story…………..



Would he like her to show him how much? Was she serious? He wanted her now, not on the wedding night, NOW.

Standing up from the sofa he stood directly in front of her and curled his tongue behind his teeth. He knew what this action did to her. Loving the way her eyes focused on his mouth, he made the gesture again.

“My God, Spike” she whispered. “Where did you learn to do that with your tongue? Do you know what it does to a girl?”

Knowing exactly what it did to a girl was, William decided, a subject not to be discussed with his virginal fiancé. Although it was expected for a man of his age to have had an active sex life, it was not a topic of conversation for ladies. Amongst themselves, he was sure, ladies talked a great deal; however no woman embraced the subject with a man – unless they wished a liaison.

A little evasion was called for, he thought.

“I know what it does to you pet” he smiled at her. “And I’m hoping that you will deliver on your promise to show me how much you want me.”

Buffy froze inside. Seconds ago he had demanded a show of how much she loved him, now it had been demoted to want. Reality hit her square in the chest. She knew she had lied when she told him she loved him, but deep down in her heart, she had hoped that she had managed to make him love her. She realised, belatedly, that he had not said ‘I love you’ in return.

If he wanted her to please him, he would have to say the words. Two could play at this game.

“How much do you want me to please you, Spike?”

“More than anything,” he replied as he pulled her into his arms for a kiss.

Losing herself in the moment, Buffy allowed him to play her mouth like a virtuoso until she could feel his need build against her. He was rubbing his erection against her stomach and as he lifted his mouth from hers, he breathed into her mouth.

“Touch me Pet,” he groaned. “Take your little Spike out to play and let him feel that gorgeous mouth of yours telling him ‘Hello’”

As he spoke he lifted her right hand from his neck and pulled it between them to lay it against his rock hard erection.

Instinctively, Buffy knew how to make him respond as she wanted. She would hold back until he begged her to suck him. She would make him tell her he loved her before she would put it in her mouth.

Rubbing her hand slowly up and down his erection, she wondered how she should play this. The only sexual experiences she had ever had in her life was with him and she was not sure how far to take this. It was all very well to have plans in your head, but she was dealing with a man who was more sexual than your average human being. Even in her innocence, she knew this as a truth.

Deciding that he seemed to be turned on when she ordered him to do things, she quickly drew up a battle plan.

Leaning closer towards him, she breathed into his mouth.

“Take it out, Spike, and sit on the sofa”

Immediately William drew back from her to do as she bid. He was already rock hard from licking her out earlier and he was desperate for release. Once he had lowered his breeches enough for her to play with both his cock and his balls, he made himself comfortable on the sofa.

Looking her in the eyes, he smiled. “What do you want me to do now pet?”

Taking the bull by the horns, Buffy decided on a strategy.

“Play with it Spike” she ordered him. “Let me see how you like to be pleasured. Let me see how you hold yourself and how you like to be touched. Let me learn from you how to please you”

Good plan, she thought. He could get his release and she would not have to touch him

William smiled as brought his left hand towards her. He quickly lifted her skirts and drew his full hand against her pussy. Buffy’s knees buckled slightly as he touched her, and was surprised to see that when he removed his hand it was covered in her juices.

“Need a little lubrication, sweetheart” he leered at her. “And your juice is so much better than spit.”

Buffy kept the look of disgust off her face with difficulty. She wondered if he was serious. Surely he did not need lubrication in order to stroke himself. Buffy could not stop her curiosity, she had to ask.

“Why?”

“Oh darling,” he said. “I want it to smell like you”

Buffy beamed at him, her smile lighting her eyes. He loved it when she smiled like that.

“Watch closely, sweetheart. Watch and learn”

William’s left hand slowly clasped round the base of his cock. He moved his hand in a small circular motion as if looking for a comfortable place. As the circling became faster, he started to move his hand upward toward the tip. He kept this movement going getting faster with each sweep.

Watching a few strokes of his hand, Buffy moved towards him until she was between his legs and dropped down to her knees. Placing her hand over his she mimicked his movements until she caught his rhythm.

“Remove your hand now, Spike” she whispered to him. “Let me take over.”

Immediately, William dropped his hand and allowed her to keep the rhythm going. She was doing so well and he was so close. If you would just take him in her mouth and play with his balls, he would shoot his load for England.

He was in ecstasy. His little virgin fiancé was playing his dick like a Haymarket whore and it was wonderful. Lost in pleasure he threw his head back and bucked into her hand. In his mind images whirled. Images of Dru and the pleasure they found together came unbidden into his head. Dru mouthing him; Dru fucking him; Dru licking his arse. Dru, Dru, Dru……

Buffy moved her left hand to his balls and stroked them gently. She felt the hardness behind them and drew her knuckles down it. William’s response was immediate. He bucked wildly on the sofa as long, thick streams of come poured from him. Screaming his release to the heavens, he roared one name.

“DRUSILLA…….”

Chapter 23 – Consequences


William froze. His dick was still pumping fluid even though Buffy had removed her hands. He had made the most colossal mistake of his life and he knew there would be consequences. How in God’s name was he going to talk himself out of this one? His lust addled brain had totally disconnected with mouth as he had screamed Drusilla’s name. He had screamed it loud and proud to the skies, with Buffy’s hands on his dick.

Opening his eyes he expected to see an angry Buffy looking down at him, but his eyes fell on empty space. Looking round wildly he found her running towards the end of the long gallery. By the time he had pulled himself together enough to follow her, he realised he could not enter the drawing room looking as he was. He was covered in his own come and the smell of sex was strong.

Christ, what was he to do. He had blown it big time and he was sure Buffy was in the drawing room at this moment happily announcing that the engagement was off and that she was moving heaven and earth to get her family to return home.

Good God, what if she told the whelp. Would he make good his threat and demand satisfaction. William laughed hard at his thoughts. Killing Buffy’s brother in a duel on the common would really ensure she married him

How was he going to make this right and get her to marry him? Christ, he was screwed in more ways than one.

In the space of a day he had managed to lose both his Dark Princess and his Golden Goddess, simply because he could not control his mouth.

He had to make this right, the question was how.

He had never been good at making plans and following them through. He always ended up worse than when he started. Stupid fucking idiot. The words kept running through his brain.

Pushing his hands into his hair, he rubbed his head furiously. He could not think what to do. Should he hurry and change his clothes, or should he throw caution to the winds and run after Buffy hoping to change her mind. He knew he has spent too standing in the gallery doing nothing. She could have left the house by now.

Move, he admonished himself. Get moving and stop her breaking off the engagement.

Finally he realised he would have to do something. Straitening his clothes as he ran he made his way to the drawing room. Stopping at the mirror in the hallway he stared at the mess he was in. There was no way he could enter looking as he did. What the hell was he to do?

Moving back towards the door of the drawing room, he placed his ear against the panels. He wished the doors in this house were not so thick. Realising that he was breathing so hard that he could not distinguish anything through the doors, he stood straight and deliberately slowed his breathing down. He closed his eyes for a second and willed his body to calm down. He wanted, no needed, to hear what was being said and he would not be able to do this when he was in such a state.

Once his breathing was under control, he returned his ear to the door.

Buffy was laughing. He could hear her laughing. His father was laughing too; he would recognise his rich baritone anywhere. The whelp’s laughter was trilling round the room as well as Lady Joyce. He was almost curious enough to enter when he heard Buffy tell the room.

“And you should have seen his face when the candle wax spilled all over his clothes. I’m sure William’s valet will be most angry with him when he sees the state of his shirt and pantaloons.”

She had told a lie. She had not told them of his screaming Drusilla’s name. Did she love him enough to forgive him? Did she care so much for him?

William stood back from the door. He could not believe what he had heard. She had given everyone in the room an excuse as to why he was not there, and she had made it sound plausible. Turning on his heel he made his way quickly to his room to ring for his valet and change his clothes. He had to get back to the drawing room fast and find out where he stood.

Ten minutes later, William was presentable enough to return to his guests. He had washed his hands, face and dick while waiting for his valet to find him something suitable to wear. Changing quickly into clean clothes he ran down the main staircase taking the steps two at a time. He had to get in there.

Coming to a halt outside the door he closed his eyes and moved his head from side to side. Fully composed now he entered to room as if he had been gone a few minutes and not the thirty he had really been gone. Keeping his head still, he moved his eyes cautiously around the room to try and gauge the reaction to his entrance.

Buffy spoke first, moving quickly towards him and taking his hand. She dug her nails hard enough to almost draw blood into his palm. William was not sure if the gesture was to warn him or to hurt him.

“There you are my love,” she smiled at him. “I have just told everyone the story of how you dropped a candle in the gallery and managed to get hot wax all over your attire.”

William decided the only thing he could do was bluff it out.

“Did you, sweetheart,” he replied as he looked into her eyes. He could see her anger and he was sure he also saw contempt. He quickly decided that he would not use any more endearments tonight. After his behaviour this evening, she would know them to be false and could still call off the engagement.

Craven turned his attention to William.

“Glad to see you are no worse for your experience lad”

William caught the undercurrent in the Duke’s voice and was sure the old man knew what he and his daughter had really been up to. Guilt lay heavily on his chest as well as anxiety. He felt real fear for what the outcome of his actions would bring.

His father gave him a strange look that only William could interpret. His disappointment with his son was clearly written on his face. God, could this night get any worse.

Feeling trapped and vulnerable, William wondered what to do. Clem came to his rescue.

“Her grace is feeling poorly William and the Duke and his party are about to leave.” Looking round at the Duke of Craven, Lord Clement remarked.

“If you care to stay and catch up with your friend your grace, William and I would be happy to escort Lady Joyce and Lady Elizabeth home.” Clem smiled at Xander. “I’m sure a young man such as your son has his mind set on other pursuits and would welcome the chance to leave his mother and sister in our capable hands.”

Xander smiled brightly at Clem. He was indeed eager to leave this stuffy house and return to his club before taking in the joys of Haymarket. A night with a well trained whore would ease his need for Cordelia nicely. Many he would look up that Anya chit he had enjoyed before. She was always good for a round or two, or even three if he had enough coin.

“It would be my pleasure Sir,” William added. “I feel the need for some air this evening and it would be no hardship to escort the ladies home”

William could feel Buffy’s anger as a palpable force within the room. They needed time alone to sort this out and they needed it soon. A ride in a carriage accompanied by his best friend and her mother would not give them the privacy they required, but he knew it would help him try to work out what was going on in her head. At this moment, she scared him.

“Thank you, Whitmore” Craven replied. “I would be most grateful if you could see your way to escorting the ladies home”

“I will call for our carriage at once your grace,” William replied. “That way you can use your own conveyance to return home”

The two men passed a look of understanding between them. The Duke of Craven would not be returning home for quite some time. William was sure the man would visit his mistress this very night.

Glancing at Lady Joyce, William noticed that she indeed look pale. This woman reminded him of his own sweet gentle mother. She had the same soft voice and aristocratic bearing that he admired. He knew that if he managed to sort things out with Buffy he could grow to love this admirable woman as a mother. How he hoped that this would come to pass.

He had to get the women out of there. He needed time to think and time to put things right. The thought of losing Buffy was lying like a brick in his gut.

William made his way to the fireplace to pull on the rope. Once the butler arrived, William informed him to make the carriage ready as soon as possible. After the longest twenty minutes of his life, he was informed that the coach and four was ready. Politely offering his arm to her grace, he nodded to Clem to escort Buffy from the room. Another five minutes was taken up by everyone putting on their outer clothes ready for the journey home.

William continued to escort her grace while Clem busied himself escorting Buffy. The footman helped both women into the coach and ensured they were tucked into blankets with hot bricks at their feet to stem the cold.

The journey back to the Craven mansion seemed to take forever. Clem managed to keep conversation going, but William noticed that Buffy made a point of not speaking directly to him. He noticed she did not look at him either and he was confused over the hurt he felt. Lady Joyce proved to be a wonderful conversationalist and he tried to lose his thoughts by conversing with her.

Buffy, he noticed, appeared to enjoy the company of Clem and he could feel his temper rising towards his friend. Confusion and anger appeared to be his companions just now and he did not know how to let the feelings go.

Eventually the carriage stopped and the footmen jumped down to open the door. As soon as the door opened William jumped down from the carriage determined to be the one to help Buffy alight.

Buffy noticed his actions and knew exactly what he intended to do. She was more than ready for him.

As he offered his hand, Buffy stared at him with a look of contempt and pointedly turned to the footman offering her hand to him instead.

William knew the gesture for what it was. She did not want him to touch her just now, and he thought it best to comply and stood aside to let the footman help her alight. Once on the ground Buffy turned and waited for her mother and was pleased to see Clem’s attentiveness towards her.

Once her mother was free of Clem’s hand, Buffy turned to William.

“I bid you goodnight sir,” she told him trying to keep the anger from her voice. “I believe I will forgo our ride in the park tomorrow. As you can see my mother is not well and I think it would be best if she had my company tomorrow rather than you.”

Christ, he thought. She is going to break the engagement tomorrow. He could almost see it in her eyes. He could think of nothing to say in reply.

Clem came forward and lifted Buffy’s hand to his lips.

“We will indeed miss your company my dear,” he smiled at her. “But we can both see that her grace needs some rest. May we call later tomorrow to enquire of her health?”

“You will be most welcome, Lord Clement”

William noticed immediately that he had not been included in the invitation. He must not let an opportunity like this pass by. He would be here tomorrow come hell or high water.

As the door to the Craven mansion opened light spilled from the hallway to the street. William desperately tried to gain Buffy’s attention and he pointedly stopped her passage to the door by standing in front of her.

“We need to talk Buffy,” he whispered.

“Do we, my Lord.” He winced at her tone. “I do believe you have said more than enough in my presence this evening.”

The coldness in her voice struck William to the core. He noticed the use of his title and immediately recognised it for the put down it was. He had royally fucked everything up and he did not know how to make it right.

The front door of the mansion closed slowly behind the two women. Clem turned a concerned face to his friend and with a nod of his head bid him back inside the carriage. They had been friends too long for Clem not to know that something serious was going on between Buffy and William. He would have the truth of it tonight.







AN* - Will I be evil and hold out for a few days on what Buffy will do? Naw – come back tomorrow, there will be something for all of you then.


Thank you so much for the reviews. It’s true what they say, they do compel you to write.

Chapter 24 – Confession


Once again I thank you all for reading, reviewing and for quite simply making me happy.

Enough of my ramblings – on with the story………….




Clem stared at William across the carriage. What the fuck was Will playing at? Lady Elizabeth Summers was, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful young women he had ever seen, yet this idiot opposite him wanted a black hearted bitch who had bedded half the ton. Was he mad? Had he started using opium? Was he too far inside the whiskey bottle to not see the treasure that was in his grasp?

Something terrible has happened tonight while Elizabeth and William had been gone. Of that Clem had no doubts. Elizabeth had returned to the drawing room alone and the look of anger on her face was undeniable. He wondered if his friend had tried to force the girl to have sex. Nothing would surprise him when it came to William’s behaviour.

“Right then, William,” Clem asked as he leaned forward to lay his forearms against his legs. “What the fuck happened tonight, and I want the truth man.”

William, who had been staring at a spot on the floor of the carriage, looked up at his friend.

“Quite simply, Clem, I fucked up.” William dropped his head once more to stare at the fascinating spot on the floor.

“What do you mean you fucked up?” Clem replied.

Lifting his head slowly, William stared at his friend for a few moments before turning his eyes to the window. He knew he had to tell Clem the whole, but it did not mean he was comfortable with the telling.

Slowly he recounted the events of evening. He told Clem of Buffy’s willingness to let him play with her and of her amazing orgasm. He told him of her declaration of love and how he had felt when she had said it. When it came to talking of his own debacle, he faltered. How do you explain screaming another woman’s name to high heaven while your fiancé was giving you one of the best hand jobs you had ever experienced in your life? This was humiliating.

Clem stared at his friend in disbelief.

“Are you seriously telling me that you screamed Drusilla’s name while the most beautiful woman I have ever seen is wanking you off. Are you fucking insane, Will.”

William turned his head from the window of the carriage and looked desperately at his friend.

“I don’t know how or why I did it Clem.” William could feel a dampness on his cheeks and realised he had started to weep. “I just know I would do anything to take it back.” He began to cry in earnest now as the full repercussions of his actions of his actions hit him hard.

“You stupid, fucking idiot” cried Clem in exasperation. “You were set up for life and you’ve thrown it all away for the rancid cunt of a woman who cares nothing for you. If I did not value our friendship so much, I would call you out for being such a fool.”

William continued to cry silently as the carriage wound its way back to his home.

“Do you think I don’t know this, Clem?” he asked. “I had all that beauty in my grasp and I was stupid enough to let it go.”

William looked appealingly at his friend.

“How can I make this right, Clem? I have to marry her. The notices have gone out and Craven has acquired St Paul’s. Christ man, he has asked the Archbishop himself to marry us.”

Clem could not help himself, he threw back his head and laughed uproariously.

“You have got to be joking, Will” he spat at his friend. “If word gets out that an innocent daughter of a Duke decided you were not good enough for her, your reputation will be tantamount to a heap of horse shit.”

William laughed sardonically. “I know this Clem. I know it too well.”

“If I were you Will, I would get myself home, clean myself up and get myself over to the Craven mansion early tomorrow morning. You need to get this sorted out with Elizabeth before any more harm is done.” Clem looked in anger at his friend. “And if I hear that you went back to that insane whore tonight to try and make it up with her, I swear to God there is nowhere you can hide where I would not find you.”

“Buffy, Clem, not Elizabeth” his friend replied. “To me she is just Buffy.”

Clem narrowed his eyes at his friend. He was sure that William had started to develop feelings for Elizabeth that went deep. At this moment William was confused over how he felt about Drusilla, after all they had been together for almost ten years. It was time to step in and help his friend out.

“Let’s go to White’s Will and get so far in our cups that we can’t get out. When we can drink no more I will make sure you go straight home. Go near that Angelus whore tonight William and I will end our friendship.”

Clem leaned forward menacingly.

“When we are done tonight, Will, I will come back in the morning to make sure you go to Buffy. I will accompany you to ensure your entrance as I believe that if you go there on your own, Buffy will refuse to speak to you.”

Leaning back against the squabs, Clem looked at his friend.

“Do I make myself clear, Whitmore?”

Wincing at his friends tone, William looked at his friend before replying.

“Let’s get pissed Clem. I have never needed the bottle as much as I do tonight.”

As the carriage drew closer to White’s in St James’, William again thought over his actions. How could he have been so stupid? Buffy would have been a wonderful wife, and he would have no qualms in bedding her.

Clem was still staring at him as if he had two heads, and he was desperate to get drunk. He needed the bottle just now and his heart was heavy with guilt.

Tomorrow, he determined, he would listen to what she had to say.

His only hope was that she did love him as she said. If he had killed her love, he did not know what he would do.

Chapter 25 – The Betting Book.

AN* - To my reviewers, I love you all.






White’s had been a washout. Both men found that they were not in the mood to drink once they had entered the hallowed halls. A bottle of brandy was placed between them as soon as they arrived, but only a few drinks had passed their lips. Each had been caught up with their own thoughts and there was a dark mood over the table.

More than one acquaintance nodded as they passed by, but William and Clem kept a broody silence between them. Neither man wanted to start a conversation which could be heard by half the ton, and as such end up as the latest on-dit of the season.

One young man, obviously foxed, passed their table and greeted them.

“Whitmore and Telford,” the young fop slurred. “Come to see the betting book?”

Both William and Clem lifted their heads towards the interloper.

“Betting book?” William asked, his voice threatening.

The young man was too drunk to notice the threat in William’s voice and carried on. “Why of course, Whitmore. There’s a nice bet in there about your up coming nuptials.”

William rose hastily to his feet, followed closely by Clem.

“Explain yourself boy,” William spat at him in a rage. Clem held on to William’s arm to stop him planting the young idiot a facer.

“Take a look for yourself, My Lord” the young man sneered. “It would appear that there is a large bet on the wedding not taking place.”

For a small second the young man looked thoughtful and turned his eyes towards the ceiling before bringing them back to encompass the two men before him.

“Thought about putting something on myself considering how well you know the Lady Drusilla.” The young man turned on his heel and walked away with a slight stagger to his step.

Clem held tightly to William to stop him following.

“Not now, Will” Clem whispered to him. “Let’s see the damned book”

Clem made a gesture to one of the waiters close to hand. As he man drew close Clem warned his friend “Whatever is there Will, you don’t react.”

William nodded slightly as Clem bade the waiter for the book.

The betting book at White’s was legendary. Fortunes had won or lost based on bets entered in the book. Most were innocuous and revolved around horses or games of cards. However once in a while a wit would use the book to further their own plans, and many a Dukedom or Earldom had been left without an heir due to duels won and lost when a man’s honour had been questioned.

Clem watched the waiter bring the book. He glanced around and noticed more than one member of the club was watching them both intently. There must be something bad in the book concerning William. He dreaded to think what it was or how his volatile friend would react.

Taking the book from the waiter, he bade William sit down.

“We don’t want any of the tabbies in here to know anything.”

William knew good advice when he heard it, yet a feeling of dread passed over him. He tried to keep his countenance steady as Clem turned the pages of the book to see what it said. Near the end of the book Clem found his prize.


Lord W’s in a bit of a pickle
Truly in love with a woman so fickle
But what will happen should Lady E discover
Her money’s been spent on a slut of a lover

Both men stared at the number of bets placed against him marrying Buffy. My God, if any of them knew about the events of this evening then they would be on to a sure thing

William’s face went white then red. Clem knew by looking at him that he was ready to tear the head from anyone who spoke to them. It was time to leave.

“Put the book down on the table slowly, Will” Clem hissed at him. “Don’ let anyone see how close they are to winning anything.”

The book slowly fell from William’s hands to the table. He had to get out of there.

“Time to go,Clem.”

Nodding his agreement, Clem rose and accompanied William out of White’s.

As both men strode down the steps to the pavement, they could hear raucous laughter behind them.

“Christ, Clem” exclaimed William. “What the hell am I going to do?”

“Why that’s simple Will. You get the chit to go ahead with the marriage”

William looked at him as if he had grown another head.

“Need to get her to talk to me first, Clem”

“We’ll see to that in the morning. Let’s get home and sober before tomorrow”

And with that they made their way home.



Back in the Craven mansion Buffy put William out of her mind and tended to her mother. Lady Joyce was indeed quite ill and Giles had been sent with a message for the family physician. Buffy had made her mother as comfortable as possible and had left instructions that they not to be disturbed unless it was the physician.

Lady Joyce was retching into a basin. Buffy noticed the spots of blood in the vomit, but chose wisely not to comment. She loved her gentle, wise mother very much and did not wish to hurt her, but everyone knew that blood in the vomit was a sign of consumption.

Waiting impatiently at her mother’s side, Buffy started to recall the events of the evening.

How could he have done that to her? He must really be in love with the woman to call her name at such a moment. She had been so sure that when they played their little games he thought only of her, well she had been proved wrong tonight.

Everything inside her told her to walk away from this marriage. If she told her father that she had changed her mind surely he would listen. She realised that as long as she married someone her father would be happy. Maybe she would turn her attention to Lord Telford. After all he had been most attentive to her and her mother this evening and she believed him to be kind.

William was not kind. William was thoughtless, insensitive and greedy for her money.

The thought of avenging her honour by marrying his best friend was a really good idea. She batted it around her head for a few moments and realised that she could not go through with a marriage to Clem. She fully intended to have her own money and Clem was too gentle to hurt.

No, she would marry William but she would lay down the terms of the marriage contract.

If she had known of the existence of the White’s Betting Book she may have taken a different course of action. However she made her plans in ignorance of the fact that all she had to say to ruin William was, NO.

Tomorrow, she decided. Tomorrow she would lay down her terms.

Chapter 26 – Home truths


AN* - Thanks again to all my reviewers


Go on – review please. You know you want to.





Lady Joyce had been through a bad night. The doctor had insisted that she did not have consumption as she was not wasting away. He believed that she might have an inflammation of the lungs which led to the bleeding in the vomit, but the amount was too small for worry.

Buffy breathed a sigh of relief. She knew that if her mother had contracted the dreadful disease they would become social outcasts. Everyone knew consumption was contagious and as soon as word got out that someone in a household had it, then no one from the ton visited.

She had slept badly, still going over the events of the previous evening in her head. Rising from her bed she called for Willow to prepare her bath. While the footmen carried the heavy pails of hot water to Buffy’s dressing room, Willow moved around her mistress’ bedroom tidying away her clothes of last night and setting out clothes for Buffy to wear that day.

“Have you plans for today Miss,” Willow asked.

Her head was loaded with plans, but not the sort Willow meant. Smiling to herself Buffy informed the young maid that she would be riding in the park later and to set out a nice outfit for the occasion. Glancing at the young red-head she motioned her head to the green velvet outfit she felt would be perfect for the outing with Clem.

“The green, I think Willow,” Buffy smiled at the young maid. “And I think I will wear the cream day dress with the little roses around the neck and hem.”

Willow bustled to get the clothes in order while supervising the filling of Buffy’s bath.

“Do you want me to help you bathe Miss?”

“Not today Willow. Although you could help me wash my hair before you leave. You know I have an awful trouble removing the soap on my own.”

Without embarrassment, Buffy removed her clothes. Willow had seen her naked almost every day of the two years she had been assigned to her and Buffy treated her almost like a friend. Willow could not dream of a better employer and would do anything for her.

Willow dropped a small curtsey to Buffy and moved behind the bath in order to wash her hair. Buffy’s hair was long and thick and golden and Willow loved to run her fingers through it. She enjoyed bathing her mistress. It always gave her a nice feeling between her legs. When Buffy allowed her to wash her all over her body, Willow felt the tingles even more. She wished sometimes that she did not have to use the sponge on her delicate skin and that her mistress would allow her to use her hands.

Putting such thoughts to the back of her mind, Willow prepared Buffy’s bath. The vanilla oil her mistress liked was laid to the side. She would rub that into Buffy’s hair once it had been rinsed.

Once Buffy’s hair was completely rinsed and squeaky clean, Willow bent to retrieve the oil.

“Leave it,” Buffy commanded. “I do not wish to use it today.”

Willow moved from her position on the floor and curtsied to Buffy as she left the room. Buffy waited until she heard the door to her bedroom close behind Willow before she continued to wash her body. Once she was sure every part of her was clean and fresh she stood up in the bath.

Time to get ready she thought as she stepped from the bath. William will not know what has hit him today. She had every intention of making him squirm. Knowing William’s character she believed he would accompany Clem to her home. In fact she counted on it.




Clem arrived at William’s home just after 10 that morning. Gaining entrance he asked the butler where William might be. Nodding to the breakfast parlour, the butler held out his hands for Clem’s great coat and hat.

“No need to announce me Smithers,” Clem nodded at the butler. “His Lordship is expecting me this morning.”

“As you wish sir. I will speak to cook and arrange some more coffee be brought in.”

Clem smiled at the man. “Why thank you Smithers, that would be most welcome”

The butler nodded his reply. He like this friend of Lord William’s very much indeed. He seemed to be able to calm his impetuous master down. For the first time in many months his young master had spent the full night in his own bed. The servants knew of their master’s habits and whom he kept company with. His proclivities were often discussed below stairs, especially the tales John Coachman could tell when he brought his master home from his paramour. Perhaps all would be well once he was married. On meeting the future Duchess the previous evening he had held the servant’s hall agog with tales of her beauty, grace and wonderful manners.

Turning to the cook he remarked, “Lord Telford is here to see the young master.”

“Do you think he would like something to break his fast?” the rotund cook asked while placing more ham on a skillet.

“He only asked for coffee Mrs Soames, but I think some of your excellent cooking would go down well.”

Mrs Soames smiled at the butler. “I will send one of the men up directly with some coffee and food.” She lifted her fingers to her numerous chins. “I’m sure there is some plum cake in the larder, Lord Telford used to be so fond of my plum cake.”

“Excellent idea, Mrs Soames” he smiled in reply. “Lord Telford will be pleased.”

Returning to her skillet, Mrs Soames turned the ham.



Once the servants had removed the covers on the additional breakfast offerings, William bade them away.

Clem rose from his chair and walked to the dresser to fill his plate. He noticed that Mrs Soames had included plum cake in the selection and he silently thanked the Gods that she remembered it was one of his favourites. Returning to his seat at the table with a full plate of ham and eggs, he sat down and poured himself a large cup of coffee.

“Would you like some Will?” Clem half stood from his seat ready to pour more coffee into William’s cup.

Smiling at his friend, William nodded his thanks and pushed the cup towards Clem.

Silence stretched between then as they both ate their fill. It was not until the third cup of coffee, an excellent accompaniment to Mrs Soames’ plum cake, that Clem decided to break the stalemate.

“Just how are you going to sort this out, Will?” Clem sat back in his seat to await William’s answer.”

“Truthfully Clem, I don’t know.” He lifted his cup to his lips and took a sip. “Christ, I could do with a brandy.”

Clem frowned at his friend, “Don’t think a brandy is what you need right now.”

“I know Clem.” William placed both hands on the table, either side of his empty plate. Staring down at the dirty plate in front of him, he shrugged. “I don’t know how to approach Buffy, or what to say.”

When William looked up, his friend was looking at him in pity. William winced inwardly at the look on Clem’s face and tried to smile.

Clem decided it was time to take the bull by the horns. “Are you willing to give up Drusilla, William? Because I tell you now, as one good friend to another, I see no other way out of this mess.”

“I can’t give her up, Clem.” William said in anguish. “I need her to survive.”

Sighing loudly he told his friend the only solution he could think of.

“Then you have to tell Buffy the truth William, and hope that she accepts her place in society as your wife, but not your love.”

William sat up straight. “I can’t do that Clem, it would hurt her and I don’t want to see her hurt.”

Flabbergasted at his friend’s outburst, Clem retorted.

“Oh! Is that right? And you think you did not hurt her by screaming your whore’s name in the throes of passion?” Clem was too angry at William to hold his comments back.

“Drusilla is not a whore, Clem.” William said angrily. “She just needs someone to care for her and love her.”

Disbelief and anger rolled over Clem. William was, without doubt, one of the most stupid fuck-ups he had ever met. He could not hold back his tongue.

“What do you think your precious Dru was up to last night while you were mucking up you future, eh?”

William took his time in answering his friend. “God only knows Clem. I think she would have waited for me to come and see her and make it right between us again.”

Clem stood up so quickly from his chair that it fell to the floor.

“I have had just about all I can take of your absolute stupidity. The woman told you herself that she has used you for years as her plaything, but you refuse to believe her. What hold does she have over you Will that you keep going back for more? The woman is an evil witch who has pulled you like a fly into her web of deceit and lies. If it was not for the fact that I happen to like and admire Lady Elizabeth, I would walk away from this friendship now.”

Anger rose quickly in William’s breast, and he stood to confront his friend.

“You know nothing of my relationship with Dru, Clem, so keep your mouth shut.”

“I know nothing of your relationship with Dru. Good God man, you have cried on my shoulder more than once when she has kept you out of her bed.” Anger made his tongue loose. “The whole fucking TON knows that you pine for her like a lapdog. She tells everyone of your devotion to her and she laughs at you William. She makes jokes of how she gets you to crawl on your knees for her affection. The woman is a viper clawing at your breast to suck more of your life’s blood. The whole fucking world can see it, why can’t you.”

William replied simply, “Because I love her, Clem. I love her so much it’s hard to breathe.”

“Jesus Christ, if that’s the case then I will not let you marry Elizabeth. I will not stand by and let you hurt her by continuing to see Dru.”

William looked sadly at his friend.

“I have already come to that conclusion, Clem. I am going to break off the engagement, or rather let her break it off, today.”

Clem stared at his friend for a few more seconds.

“Then we better get ourselves over to Craven’s and you can get this over with.”

With that statement hanging between them, they went on their way.

Chapter 27 – Striking a bargain.


AN* - well here it is. The big confrontation. Enjoy dear friends, enjoy.






Buffy made her way to the morning room after looking in on her sleeping mother. She wished her father would allow them to move back to their country estate. Her mother would do far better in the country air, she knew. The noxious fumes of the London streets could not be doing her mother any favours.

Her father preferred London and left a trusted steward in charge of the estate. Buffy used to help Robert Wilson with his accounts when she was younger and he had taught her estate management in return. She enjoyed the work as she had a brain that need to be used. It was far better than sitting around trying not to look bored in the company of other members of the Ton.

She had known that the Annandale estates in the north were in a bad state of disrepair and she had looked forward to getting them back into shape. In fact, it had been with this in mind that she had decided on her course of action. Smiling to herself, she sat down at the desk and placed paper on the blotter. Lifting the pen, she checked the nib for sharpness. Deciding to sharpen it up a bit, she was holding the paring knife used for this purpose when Giles opened the door.

“You have visitors my Lady. Lord Whitmore and Lord Telford are waiting in the hall at your convenience.”

Smiling brightly at Giles, Buffy nodded to him letting him know that she was ‘at home’ to the gentlemen.

The smile faltered slightly as Giles left the room. Her heart was hammering in her breast, but she was determined that she would have her way. All the details of her plan were clear in her mind and she was sure that Spike, no William now, would be most compliant. He needed this marriage more than she. In fact, she counted on it.

Deciding to stay behind the desk she waited on her fiancé and his friend. She wanted to keep this physical barrier between them.

Giles preceded William and Clem into the room.

“Lord Whitmore and Lord Telford, ma’am.”

Buffy smiled at Giles as he made the announcement. “Would you bring some refreshments for my guests? And would you ask Willow to make sure Lady Dawn is ready to join us as we are all due to go for a ride in the park today.”

Giles bowed to his young mistress and left the room. He did not close the door behind him as it was not seemly for an unmarried woman to be alone with one gentleman, never mind two. He hurried to the kitchen to make sure the refreshments were quickly put together, while sending Willow to fetch Lady Dawn.

Clem decided to open the conversation. He still felt a great deal of anger towards William and felt awkward in Elizabeth’s company because of this. He had truly come to like this wonderful girl, and he believed that if they could sort everything out, she would be the making of his friend.

“How is her grace this morning, Lady Elizabeth?” he enquired.

Buffy smiled at Clem, thankful that they could converse rationally.

“She is much better this morning, thank you Lord Clement. However the physician has ordered her to rest.” Buffy’s smile grew wider as she recognised the true concern on his face. “Please, Lord Clement, you are amongst friends here. Call me Buffy and I will call you Clem.”

Clem’s smile filled his face at her reply. If William did not want to marry this girl, he would have stepped into the breach in a heartbeat had it not been for his relationship with Faith whom he loved very much. Once again he cursed his friend for a fool.

William felt strange and confused. Just a short hour ago he had declared his love for Drusilla to his best friend. However as soon as he had entered the room and seen his golden goddess decked in her cream gown before him, he had felt the sting of arousal in his groin. She looked effulgent, with her crown of shining golden hair; her sparkling green eyes and her full plump lips. He had tasted those lips just the evening before, and he wanted to taste them again. He moved further into the room so she would acknowledge him, society politeness insisted upon it.

Buffy turned to her erstwhile fiancé.

“Why, Lord William, I must say I am surprised to see you today. I believe we said all that needed to be said last night.”

“I find, madam, that there are some things I wish to relay to you this day.” William knew he was being pompous, but he had been taken aback by the use of his title and the cold way she had spoken to him.

Buffy smiled at William, but it did not reach her eyes.

“How convenient that you have decided to visit, my Lord, as there are some things I wish to relay to you.” Buffy’s tone matched William’s in her cold reply.

Clem groaned. He wondered if he was going to have to act as referee between the warring couple. You could almost feel the sparks fly through the air as they continued to stare at one another. He was glad when the butler arrived with tea and sandwiches. The man was followed by almost an army of servants who moved around the room placing small tables at the side of the chairs and sofa ready for the refreshments. As the servants silently left, a blue streak hurtled through the door.

“Lord William,” cried Lady Dawn in surprise. “I did not know you were visiting today. I’m sure Buffy said that a Lord Clement was taking us for a drive this afternoon.”

“Indeed I will be happy to take you for a drive today.” Clem rose from his seat and held his hand to Lady Dawn. “Lord Clement Telford, my Lady. It is a pleasure indeed to meet such a beautiful girl this early in the day.”

A very becoming blush rose in Dawn’s cheeks.

“Why, Lord Clement, what a nice thing to say.” Dawn’s smile lit up her face. Although she was dark-haired compared to the golden hair of her sister, Clem noticed that they had the same eyes and easy mannerisms. When this girl had her own season in a few years time she would take the Ton by storm.

“Call me Clem my dear,” he smiled at the young woman. “I am a very close friend of Lord Whitmore and I’m sure we will meet on many occasions.”

Dawn was enthralled with the stranger. He was the first gentleman she had ever met who treated her as a woman and not a young girl. She decided that she could grow to like Clem immensely.

“As we are to be friends, my Lord, it would please me greatly if you were to call me Dawn.” With that she once again turned on her full smile.

While Dawn and Clem exchanged pleasantries, William and Buffy continued to stare at one another. Only Clem knew of the tension between them, and he was determined they needed to talk in private. He racked his brain of how he could accomplish this without Buffy being aware of his knowledge of their problems. Dawn came to his rescue at that moment and he could have hugged her.

“Buffy, do you know if Xander is at home?” Dawn asked of her sister, oblivious to the under current of anger evident in the room.

Buffy turned to her sister with an affectionate look. “I believe he is, Dawnie. Would you please ring for Giles and he can ask him to join us.”

William felt a pang of fear in his gut. Had Buffy told Xander of the events of last night? Mentally he shook his head in denial. She would not have been so stupid to do such a thing without compromising her own reputation. No, she had not told Xander, of this he was sure. Feeling the fear melt away, he waited on the arrival of the whelp.

Apart from the brief exchange when he had entered the drawing room, they had said not a word to one another. This did not bode well. Although he had decided earlier in his confrontation with Clem that he would let her jilt him with dignity, now that he was in her presence he found that he did not care to let her go. Even in anger this woman was more beautiful than any he had seen.

The occupants of the room waited in silence for the appearance of Xander. When he strode into the room, he looked around at the assembly and smiled.

“Well, do we not have a full house this morning?” Xander moved into the room to shake the hands of both men. “Telford, Whitmore, nice of you to visit.”

The room filled with small talk as the five occupants strove for the social politeness determined by society. Buffy allowed this to continue for some thirty minutes. Each minute was a torture on William’s soul. She could feel his distress from across the room. Turning a smiling face to her fiancé, she asked him politely.

“William, would you please accompany me to the library? I have some wedding plans I wish to discuss with you.”

William almost knocked over a tea table in his haste to get out of the room. He needed to talk to her before he exploded. All sorts of thoughts were jumbled in his head just now, most of which concerned Buffy. Would she let him down gently, or would she be cruel? He had already decided that he would take what ever she gave him with quiet aplomb considering he was the one in the wrong.

Clem and Xander stood as Buffy left the room with William. She could hear her brother comments as William closed the drawing room door.

“Can’t really stop them being alone now, can we? They are betrothed and the marriage is but three weeks away.”

Buffy and William said nothing and walked side by side to the library. Inside a fire was lit and the room felt very comfortable. Waiting on Buffy choosing a seat, William moved to sit opposite her.

“Pet,” he began. He stopped at the glare he received from Buffy.

Deciding that attack was the best form of defence, Buffy launched into her diatribe.

“William. After last night if you dare to call me anything except Buffy or Elizabeth, I will make sure you die a horrible death.”

William’s eyes grew wide at her response.

“I have decided that this marriage will go ahead, however there will be some conditions attached.” At the look of surprise on William’s face she continued. “From your behaviour last night I deduce that you have a mistress of which you appear to be fond.”

Staring at her in surprise, William knew there was nothing he could do but admit it. He nodded his head, unable to speak.

“As I thought.” Looking directly into his eyes from across the room decided it was time to go in for the kill. “I take it that once you were married to me you intended to keep seeing this Drusilla.” Buffy’s mouth twisted in distaste.

Finding his voice, William replied in a small voice. “That was the plan, yes.”

“I take it this mistress of yours is none other than Lady Drusilla Angelus?” she asked, her voice cold as stone.

All William could think to do was nod in reply.

“I see. Then you are marrying me for money,” she stated. She could not keep the venom from her voice as her next words hit his ears. “You mercenary, twisted bastard of a man. You thought me so innocent that I would turn a blind eye to your ‘indiscretions’ while waiting patiently at home for my lord and master to deign me with a visit?”

The truth William, decided, tell her the truth.

“I was going to make sure you were increasing as quickly as possible after the marriage.”

He felt hurt by the shocked look on her face, but he had decided that she deserved to hear the whole.

“Once you were increasing I was to send you to the Annandale estates in the north.”

Buffy responded in a menacingly low tone.

“Who said you were to send me away William. Was it my father?”

“Yes. It was part of the marriage contract.”

“And was I to rot in the north while you spent my money on your whore?”

William winced at her tone, but knew she right to feel hurt.

“I believe I was to visit you for one month a year and stay faithful to you during my visit.”

Buffy threw back her head and laughed.

“Well that clears a lot of this mess up. Thank you for being honest with me, William. I think it’s time that I was now honest with you.”

William sat back in his chair and wondered what she was going to say. He was still in shock over the fact that she wanted them to marry still. Knowing he would have to listen carefully, he leant forward in his chair.

“I knew you did not love me, William. However you were the most presentable of the suitors that my father had chosen for me. I am the daughter of a Duke and cannot marry anyone with less a station than mine. You will become a Duke on the death of your father, but a more sorry excuse for a human being I have yet to meet.”

Startled at her attack, William opened his mouth to speak.

“I am not finished with you yet,” Buffy growled at him. “Do not speak until I am finished.”

Sitting back in his chair once more, he nodded for her to continue.

“From the very start of this travesty of a courtship and engagement I have known of your plans to use my money for your own ends. It was plain to me that your family lack funds no matter how ancient your name. Between yourself and your father your have frittered away more money than I will bring you, yet you think I will let your family waste mine.”

Eyes, green with angry fire, stared at him.

“I do not care what arrangements you have made with my father, William, but know this; you and I will make a private agreement on the terms of our marriage and should either of us break them, then the marriage will be annulled.”

This virago in front of him was magnificent. Her eyes killed him with a look and her beautiful mouth spat such words of venom at him, yet still he found her absolutely gorgeous. Curious as to what her conditions might be, he nodded his head as he replied.

“What terms would you like, pet?” he taunted her with the endearment. He was starting to enjoy himself now. He could have this divine creature and his Dru. Life would be so sweet.

Buffy frowned at the endearment. She knew then that he thought he had won and that he could have her, her money and his slut. It was time to set the record straight.

“You can have your slut, William, but while she is in your heart and your mind you will never have me. As for my money, that is even easier to solve. Do you receive the fifty thousand on the day of the marriage?”

He nodded his reply.

“The night of our marriage, William will be the only time in your life you will visit my bed-chamber. You will enter by what ever means you wish but the only transaction between us will be when you hand me twenty five thousand pounds.”

William could not believe his ears. Men of the Ton did not give their wives money unless it was to pay for household expenses. She could not dare to ask this of him. Once more he opened his mouth to protest, but she continued.

“The money will be mine and mine alone. You will also give me an additional fifteen thousand to spend on your ailing heap of a family seat. I am good at estate management, William and will quickly bring gold back to the Annandale coffers.”

William’s mouth dropped almost to his chin. What in God’s name was she going to do to the estate that required that amount of soft. Again he tried to interrupt her, but she would have none of it and lifted her hand to silence him.

“You will still have ten thousand to spend on your whore, William. What more could you possibly want?” Buffy sat back to gauge his reaction.

“Want!” he exploded. Standing up quickly from his seat he moved to tower over her. Buffy was not intimidated by his reaction, she welcomed it for the truth it was.

“You cannot take any of my money once it is in my hands, my Lady” he spat at her. “The law clearly states that once the dowry has been paid it is the husband who controls the money.”

Buffy looked up at William from her position on the fireside chair. This was fun baiting him, but she felt a frisson of fear down her spine at his clearly angry stance. As firmly as she could she bid him sit down.

“I’m not finished yet, William.”

William turned and went back to his seat. He was too outraged to sit and started to pace the room. How dare this chit, barely out of the schoolroom, dictate terms to him in such a manner? My God, did she not realise that he was the heir to a Dukedom and commanded respect where ever he went? She would pay for this humiliation.

“Sit down please, William” she said calmly. “I have other terms I wish to discuss.”

“Do you indeed, madam. Perhaps I do not wish to hear you ‘other terms’” William said with alacrity.

“But you do, William,” she continued in a soft voice. “And unless you agree to them there will be no marriage. I will publicly jilt you and make sure the Ton and Lord Angelus know of your dealings with his wife. No one will blame me for ending this farce, and there are many who will be happy to put the blame on you.”

The verse in the Betting Book at White’s stole into William’s mind. He forced himself to sit down and listen to what she had to say.

“If you are determined to keep up your liaison with Lady Drusilla, William, I feel it only fair to warn you that I have no intention of staying faithful in this marriage.”

William stared at Buffy in disbelief. She could not, in all honesty, tell him that she intended to cuckold him.

“I fully intend to be discreet in my liaisons and will bring no scandal to the Annandale name. I will even ensure that there are no bastards born within the hallowed walls of your home. But I will not allow you to touch me while you spend your time with other women. See them if you must but do not bring their smell to my bed.”

His face was a movement of emotion. She could tell he was angry, but she felt her arguments made sense. If they kept emotion out of their marriage they may deal well together. She would have an estate to run and he would have his whore.

Maybe if he left her alone long enough on the Annandale estates she would not feel so attracted to him and want him as she did. She had made these conditions based on the fact that she could not be in his presence and not want him to love her with his hands and mouth. He was an addiction she was determined to break. Down that road led only heartache and sadness. She had seen first hand what an indifferent husband could do to a devoted wife; her mother was living proof of that.

More determined than ever, she carried on.

“I want to move to the estates the day after the marriage. You can then do as you wish while I am there and I absolve you of your once a year visit. My mother needs the air of the country around her and I fully intend that she and Dawn will accompany me.”

William continued to stare at her, comprehension finally dawning. She would be gone from his life almost as soon as she was officially in it. He would never need to see her again and there would be someone inhabiting the rat-infested pile he called his ancestral home. Let her see for herself what a run-down lump of stone he was inheriting. If it kept her happy and out of his life, what more could he want. She had unwittingly covered his deal with her father by removing her mother and sister with her. Could he accept her terms?

He was not happy with her statement that she intended to take lovers, but he was sure he would be able to seduce her away from that course. After all was she not responsive and free when they had been together.

“I agree to your terms, Elizabeth. I will have my solicitor draw up the document in the morning.”

Buffy felt her knees start to shake under her dress. She had won, yet she could not understand why she did not feel victorious. A delayed reaction, she thought to herself. I will feel much better when the papers are signed.

“Thank you, William” she forced herself to reply. “I think we should return to the drawing room now. I am sure that my sister has talked the ears from Clem.”

William held his hand out in order to help her from the chair. He drew it threw his own and placed his hand on hers in the crook of his elbow.

“Should we seal our bargain with a kiss, Buffy?” he teased.

Buffy looked up at him and smiled.

“I will be happy to seal our bargain with pen and ink, William. Your lips are no longer needed or required.”

With that put down ringing in his ears, William escorted Buffy to the drawing room once more.

Chapter 28 – A father’s concern

AN* - To all my lovely reviewers, thank you all from the bottom of my heart. I never believed other authors when they said that reviews fed their muse, but I have to tell you they are right. Without the reviews I would have given up and you would have just had some smut and no plot. The plot is fixed in my head now, and believe me there are quite a few twists and turns to go.


Enjoy…….



Returning to the drawing room, William found it hard to keep the smile from his face. Things were going better than he hoped, especially now that Buffy had laid out her conditions.

Once she was off to the north, he and his dark princess would have their lives back together again. He would go and see her tonight and explain the new situation. Drusilla would be so grateful that she would fall at his feet and fuck him blind. Now that Buffy knew about their relationship, he absolved himself of guilt over his dealings with Drusilla.

The only down side to this marriage was the fact that Buffy intended to take lovers for her pleasure. William was confident that he could turn her from that course with a few kisses in all the right places. Let her think she had won; he would soon have her on her knees with her mouth exactly where it belonged.

Clem could not believe his eyes when he saw Buffy walk into the room on William’s arm. He was sure that they would have returned at each other’s throats, yet they both looked content. Detecting no animosity between the pair, his curiosity now knew no bounds. Desperate to find out the story he walked towards the couple.

“Everything well?” he asked of William, who nodded and smiled his response.

Buffy looked at Clem for a few seconds and realised that he must know the whole. She smiled at him to reassure him that William and she were in harmony again. She could see his body physically relax. He must have been in a state of tension from the moment they had left the room. Clem was going to be a good friend, of this she was sure.

Deciding that Clem needed her reassurance as well, she gave him one of her large grins that lit up her whole face.

“Things are very well, Clem” she said. “William and I have come to a greater understanding that we have ever had.”

Still puzzled as to what could have brought on this obvious harmony between the two, he decided he would talk to William once they were alone in the carriage.

The Duke stood by the fireplace watching his daughter and William intently. He had picked up on a frisson of anger between the two the previous evening, but had decided not to speak to his daughter about it. He was determined that this marriage go ahead. The sooner she was breeding, the sooner he could get his wife and youngest out of town. Thinking it was time to have another chat with William and check on the progress of this courtship he bid him to follow to his study.

William extracted his arm from Buffy, but not before lifting her hand to his mouth for a kiss to her palm. He felt her tremble in his grasp and he knew she was not as indifferent to him as she had tried to let him believe. Things were going so well for him now.

“Your father wishes to speak to me my love” he whispered to her. “I will return to your side as soon as I can.”

Wincing at his words, Buffy decided to play him at his own game.

“Hurry back, my love. I will be bereft until your return.” Fluttering her eyelashes at him and pouting her lips at him.

William threw back his head and laughed. The minx was playing him at his own game and he found it amusing. He followed her father to his study.

His Grace had already seated himself by the fire when William entered the room. He gestured to the seat on the other side of the fire as he spoke.

“Is everything alright between you and my daughter, Whitmore? We are too far down the road to this marriage to stop now”

William detected the warning tone of Craven’s voice and decided it would be best to give him the good news immediately.

“Why, ‘tis even better than you planned, sir.” William smiled at the duke and continued. “Buffy has made known to me this very evening that she would like to leave for the northern estates immediately after the wedding. She intends to take her grace and the Lady Dawn with her as she believes your wife would benefit from the country air.”

The duke frowned slightly as he replied, “The arrangement was to get her breeding, boy, before she was removed from London.”

William had forgotten this clause to the marriage contract. He had to make up an excuse quickly before he answered the duke. The answer came to his mind immediately.

“I understand that sir. However Buffy has told me that she is bored with London and its entertainments and would prefer the quiet society of the north.”

Craven was not so easily placated. William could tell by the look on his face that he intended to argue his point and so he continued.

“I thought you would prefer that arrangement, sir, when I agreed to Buffy’s request.” William gave the duke a look of understanding before he played his ace.

“Surely removing them as quickly as possible would suit your better than waiting until Buffy started to breed?” he asked innocently. He knew that his grace wanted to spend more time with his mistress than with his family. The man had to see the reasoning behind this change of plan.

“How long do you intend to stay with them, William?” the duke asked.

William was taken aback. He realised that if he refused to accompany Buffy and her family the duke would know that something was amiss. He quickly realised that Craven would make good his threat to stop Buffy’s dowry. Stuck with a wife and did not want and without funds was not a situation he intended to be in.

“I will return to London as soon as she is breeding, your grace.” William smiled at his future father-in-law. “Lady Joyce will surely wish to stay with her daughter when she is enceinte.”

The duke looked thoughtful for a moment, before smiling at William.

“Yes,” he agreed. “I think your change of plan will suit me well.”

Both men stood as one and shook hands to cement the new agreement. The arrangement would suit his grace well, very well indeed.

As Craven turned to leave he missed the look of worry on William’s face.

How was he going to explain this to Buffy without her making good on her threats? He must get her alone as soon as possible before the duke announced the coming trip to the assembled guests.

As soon as he returned he made straight for Buffy. Taking hold of her hand to place it on his arm once more, he chose to ignore the stiffening of her posture. Bending low, he whispered in her ear.

“We need to talk immediately Buffy” he murmured. “Where can we go?”

Buffy instinctively knew that there was something wrong and quickly decided that she needed to find out what it was.

“Last night, my lord, you kindly escorted me to see your portrait gallery. I would be honoured if you would take a trip with me to view ours.”

Memories of the events in his long gallery came unbidden to his mind. He would not touch her tonight as her emotions were too raw and by the look on her face she would most probably slay him. It was time to act like a perfect gentleman and treat her with the respect he would show a sister. Frightening her off was not an option.

“I would like that very much, Buffy” William formally replied. He did not want to put her into a strop by using endearments she did not want to hear. It was going to be bad enough once she knew of her father’s new conditions.

The couple left the room once more. Clem, who had been conversing with Buffy while William was ensconced with her father, started to worry. He could not work out what was going on and all this toing and froing was playing havoc with his nerves. Desperation had started to set in as he believed that William had found his saviour in Buffy, if he would but let her save him.





Buffy led William to the Craven family portrait gallery. Along the way, William had picked up a candle sconce as he knew the gallery would be dimly lit, if lit at all. He did not want her frightened in any way while he told her of the change of plans. Desperate to make her trust his behaviour, he ensured that he did not stray too close to her on their journey. He could have been escorting his mother on a walk, if his manner was anything to go by.

On entering the gallery Buffy immediately dropped her hand from his arm. Rounding on him she exclaimed.

“Spit it out William, why do you need to speak to me?”

Cold Buffy was back with a vengeance. William decided it was not the time for soft soap. He would give her the facts and gauge her reaction.

“I informed your father of your wish to go north immediately after the wedding, and that you intended to take her grace and Lady Dawn with you.”

“Indeed,” she replied indignantly. “And was he agreeable to the plan?”

William sighed, he knew she was not going to be happy with his next statement, but make it he must.

“Yes, Buffy. He was most agreeable.” Before she could interrupt, he continued. “However, he insists I accompany you and not return to London until you are breeding.” He quickly hurried on as he noticed the anger rise in her eyes. “It will not be as bad as you think, Buffy. There are two estates more than ten miles apart. You and your family will stay at one while I stay at the other. After a month or so I will return to London saying that although you are not breeding yet, I had business that must be attended to.”

He looked deep into her eyes, watching for signs of trouble. She had such expressive eyes, he thought, everything she was thinking could be read in their green depths.

Thoughtfully she looked at him. If her father refused to hand over the money, both she and William would be stuck in a penniless marriage that neither of them wanted. He had agreed to live ten miles from her and that distance would surely be enough to allow her heart to heal. She took a few seconds to answer.

“All right William,” she sighed. “So be it.”

Chapter 29 – Tasting death

AN* - I know there has been no smut for a few chapters, but we can’t have them at it all the time. To tide you over there is a little smut in this chapter, but not too much.

Keep reading dear friends as Angelus is on his way. And he will definitely be Angelus.






Clem could hardly contain himself as he and his friend entered the carriage.

“What the hell happened, Will” he exclaimed.

William smiled at his friend and proceeded to tell him all the details. Clem sat with his mouth agape at the tale. Buffy would still marry him as long as he handed over half the dower and fifteen thousand to improve the estate. He would still have ten thousand to play with and a wife who had promised to bring gold to the Annandale coffers. Clem spoke without thinking.

“You don’t deserve such a prize, Will” anger making his voice low. “You have landed in clover and I don’t think you realise what a wonderful woman Buffy is.”

Speaking from the heart because he was genuinely starting to be very fond of Buffy, Clem continued.

“She could have her pick of the Ton, yet she has agreed to marry you. On top of that she is willing to allow you to continue to see Drusilla as long as you do not come to her bed and touch her with your soiled hands.”

Clem could not help but laugh at the irony of the situation.

“On top of all that, she is willing to take over the running of at least one of the estates and bring it back to profit. My god man, I would give up my life for such a woman.”

William frowned at his friend as he remembered Buffy’s declaration that she would take lovers. He had not informed Clem of that piece of news as he fully intended that she would not cuckold him. She would be his and his alone; no one would ever touch her but him.

Realising that Clem was half in love with Buffy, he was almost glad of their sojourn to the north. It would get her away from him, and soon. He trusted his friend implicitly but he wondered if Buffy would take her revenge by bedding Clem and letting him know it. He could never countenance that liaison. Keeping them apart was a good plan. Clem would get lost in the glories of Faith once more and he would forget all about William’s golden goddess.

The journey had passed quickly in the coach as the re-telling of the tale had taken some time. William eagerly dropped his friend at his home, and once he was sure Clem was inside he bade John Coachman take him to Drusilla.

Anticipation ran through his veins. He was sure that once he had explained the new arrangement with Buffy, his dark princess would love him again. Maybe she would let him tie her up and spank her for being bad to him. He could feel his cock stirring at the thought.

Knowing the way to Lady Drusilla’s home well, John Coachman made sure he took the quickest route. He, like all Annandale retainers, had hoped that their young master would stop seeing his bitch once he was engaged. Clearly this was not to be the case. With a heavy heart, he drew the carriage to the well used entrance.

William poked his head through the window. He was surprised that the silk was in its usual place. On the journey to Drusilla’s home he had half expected the silk to be gone. Drusilla had been very angry with him and said some things that she could not possibly mean; the silk must be his forgiveness.

Entering through the gate, William made his way up to his princess. As he drew near the door of her boudoir, he admitted to himself that he was nervous. With the traumas of the last few days he was not sure how he would react if she was behind the door with another man.

Another woman was a different matter. A different matter entirely.

While William debated with himself in the hall, Drusilla waited patiently for him. One of her trusted servants had been on the look out for William’s coach for the past few days. She knew that she had been hard on him, but she had to make sure he married his insipid chit. Both she and Angelus were running short of the ready and they had hatched a plan to fleece William of as much money as they could.

Angelus did not care who serviced Dru while he was away on the Irish estates. He spent his time there with his supposed housekeeper Darla who warmed his bed every night. Once a year, Angelus came home to visit his wife and to transact the business of selling the produce of his estate. During that time they were intimate, but their intimacy held a darkness of which only they knew. Drusilla would only play those games with Daddy as he was so good at pain. William was only in her life to scratch her itch between her husband’s visits. She let many others play with her, but only William was her constant. He was just too biddable to let go.

Outside the door, William straightened his shoulders and slowly turned the handle to enter the room. Drusilla lay against the many pillows at the head of the large bed in nothing but a gossamer night rail. From the doorway William gasped. She was his again, he was sure of it. However, he had to be sure that this was not another ploy to humiliate him.

“Who’s been a naughty girl then, saying all those bad things to her prince?” he asked as he started to approach the bed and removing his clothes at the same time.

Drusilla sat up slowly making sure that her breasts were thrust towards him. She smiled her most provocative smile and bade him nearer with a crooked finger.

“My dark prince should not have told mummy that he was leaving her and that he would not give her any presents.”

She knelt on the end of the bed and watched William approach.

“Mummy’s not had any kisses for two days and would like one now.”

With haste William removed the rest of his clothes and stalked towards his love. He was already half aroused just by the sight of her and his heart was filled once more with anticipation of this coupling.

Their arms closed around one another in a familiar embrace. They had been lovers for years and they knew how to arouse one another easily. William moved them both to lie on the bed without breaking the kiss. His hand moved lovingly over his lover’s breast and he moved his mouth to her ear to swirl his tongue inside.

“I think we can lose the night rail Dru, don’t you?”

She quickly removed the garment and threw it aside. When she was naked she moved herself to lie next to him and hold him close. William smiled at her and moved his lips and tongue back to her ear.

Drusilla started to moan with pleasure and anticipation. The idiot she had taken to her bed the previous evening was clumsy compared to her William. She had taught this man to please her well. Moving her hands to each side of his head, she lifted him from her neck and moved him down to her nipples. William let himself be led and latched on to the dark areole like a child to its mother’s breast. He twirled his tongue gently around her swollen nipple and drew it into his mouth with little bites. Drusilla arched from the bed at his touch. He was very good at this.

“Kiss mummy on her other lips, my prince” she cooed at him. “Mummy has missed your tongue very much.”

William did not hesitate and moved further down the bed to do her bidding.

Slowly and delicately he moved his finger along her cleanly shaven slit. He stroked up and down and swirled his fingers around her hole in just the way she liked. With great delicacy he used his fingers to open her outer lips ready for his tongue. As his placed his tongue flat against her clitoris he was assailed by her taste. She tasted of musk and old semen and he was disgusted. He wondered if she had always tasted like this, and why he could not remember.

William had tasted freshness just the previous night before he had fucked everything up.

Tonight he tasted death.

He was going to gag. He could feel it rising in his throat like a river in spate. Lifting himself from her quickly, he covered his mouth to stop the tide. His erection had gone and even his dark princess lying open to him could not bring it back.

What the hell was wrong with him, he wondered, as he ran to the dresser to pour a brandy to remove her taste from his mouth? He was swilling the brandy around his mouth and was tempted not to swallow it as it still held a hint of Drusilla’s musk. Spitting the first mouthful into the fire where it roared in the blaze, he lifted the glass again hoping her taste had gone.

Drusilla was not stupid. She recognised immediately that something was wrong with William.

“What’s wrong my darling?” she smiled at him.

Lie, William told himself, lie. He must feel this way because of the events of the previous night. It could have nothing to do with Drusilla.

“I was in my cups for most of yesterday princess because you had hurt me with your words and taunts.”

Yes, he thought, she would be amenable to that excuse because she had been the cause.

Drusilla rose from the bed and moved towards him. She was not fooled for a moment. She had always had the gift of mesmerism and she would use it on William now to learn the truth.

“Look into my eyes, my love” she sing-songed to him. “Let me see those pretty eyes.”

William shifted his eyes to hers and looked into their dark depths. He could feel his will leave him as Drusilla continued to coo at him like a raven.

“Why do you not want to eat mummy, William?” she asked when she was sure he was compliant.

“Because she tastes of death, and I want my lemons and peach.”

Drusilla’s head drew back in anger and she had to stop herself from slapping him. How dare he say she tasted like death? Keeping her eyes focused on him, she asked.

“Does Buffy taste of lemons and peach, my prince?”

William did not hesitate in his reply.

“Oh yes” he smiled at Drusilla. “Lemons and peach and she is mine.”

Realising in that moment that she was about to lose her toy, Drusilla made a decision.

“When is the marriage William?”

“Three weeks on Saturday. The Archbishop is going to marry us at St Paul’s,” he replied. Drusilla decided to take this further.

“Would you like me to come to the wedding my prince and see your pretty bride?”

William did not hesitate in his answer.

“Why of course my Lady, you would be most welcome.”

Drusilla smiled an evil smile as she led him back to the bed to sleep. He would not remember the events of tonight and she would plant in his head that he had fell into his cups after they had made love. Once he was asleep she covered herself with her dressing gown and rang for her butler.

“Wake me at 5 tomorrow morning. I will need you to help me rouse Lord William and get him out of the house.”

Her butler was used to the goings on of his mistress and did not turn a hair at the naked man lying in her bed. As he turned to leave she asked him to bid Lord William’s carriage home and to return for him at 5. The butler nodded his reply, and she knew her instructions would be carried out. Her servants were amongst the highest paid in London, it was the only way to ensure their silence.

While William slept it was time to write to Liam and ask him home for William’s wedding. What sport they would have with the couple on their great day.

She could not wait.

Chapter 30 - More Realisations

AN* we have a quite a bit to go folks and I would like to thank the faithful readers who have not given up on me yet.

Are you catching on as to how Drusilla has kept him on the leash so long? I thought you might.







William had woken cuddled against Drusilla’s back. The fire had burned quite low and he knew he had not been asleep long. It had to have been a deep sleep as he felt quite refreshed and warm. Wondering why he could not really recount his time with Drusilla he did not think it unusual. There had been times that he could not remember waking at her side, and he put this down to the drink they had consumed. Yet last night he was sure that he had not imbibed as much as he usually did. He had been at the Craven household for hours, and they had drunk tea or coffee all evening because the ladies were present. Shrugging his shoulders he put such thoughts out of his mind. He was cuddled next to his dark princess and all was well with the world.

Both he and Drusilla were naked, her back against his front. His semi-erect cock was positioned right between the cheeks of her arse and he moved himself against her to increase the friction. He might not be able to remember fucking her last night, but he fully intended to remember how well they fucked this morning. Starting to enjoy the feelings of his arousal he moved against her with more force.

Still she did not waken. He wanted her awake while he fucked her. Part of him was still angry with her for the things she had said to him a few days ago and he wanted to pay her back by making it hurt just a little. Knowing she would not mind, he moved his left hand to her breast while he continued his movements behind her.

Pinching the nipple that had peaked into his hand, he heard her gasp and moan slightly. Her lower half was moving against his stiffening cock and he situated himself further into the cheeks of her arse. He could feel her heat surround him and he rejoiced in the little moans she made as he continued to play with her nipples.

“Are you awake, my ripe wicked plum?” he asked as he swirled his tongue in her ear.

Drusilla smiled to herself. Her dark prince was back and she would be very satisfied this morning. She wished she did not have to subdue him with her mesmeric skills, but desperate measures were called for. William was moving on from her and she was not ready to let him go. Both she and Liam needed the money from his wife’s dowry and if she had to fuck it out of him, she would.

William’s hand moved slowly downwards towards her mound. She opened her legs wider for him draping her left leg behind her over his to allow him better access. He was so skilled with his fingers and he had brought her to completion many times in the past. His greatest skill was the fact that he knew when to be gentle with her and when to be rough. When she had first taken him as a green youth, she had made him play for hours, worshipping her cunt, until she finally let him fuck her.

Feeling her wetness pool around her cunt, William manoeuvred her dew towards her puckered hole. He intended to take her in the arse this morning. He did not know why but the thought of fucking her in her pussy did not appeal. Slowly he pushed his fingers into her anus. She was well used to this type of fuck and his fingers moved in easily.

As he kicked the covers back to the foot of the bed, the smell hit him. It was unmistakably the smell of Dru’s arousal. He could not miss it as he had revelled in her scent for ten years, yet on this occasion it was different. The smell was the same as always, yet this morning it made him nauseous. The erection he had proudly borne just moments before withered and died. Moving back from her as gently as he could without being sick, he removed himself from the bed.

Confused at his actions, Drusilla moved on to her back and deliberately let her legs lie open to him.

“What’s wrong my prince?” the panic in her voice evident as William started to dress.

Deciding evasion was his best form of defence, William replied.

“I must have had too much to drink last night?” he could not look at her as he continued to dress. He wondered what time he had told John Coachman to return for him. It did not matter. He would walk home if he had to. All his instincts told him he had to get out of there. As he lifted his hands to tie his cravat a whiff of Drusilla’s musk reached his nostrils. Once more he had to stop himself gagging.

Memories flooded into his brain. He remembered trying to eat Drusilla out and the feeling of sickness that accompanied this action. He remembered dry retching into a bowl and then he had looked into her eyes. From that moment he remembered nothing.

He needed to scrub his hands, he felt unclean.

Drusilla pressed him once more. “Are you coming down with a fever, my love?” she asked.

Taking that as his cue, he agreed. “I fear I must be sweetheart,” the endearment almost stuck in his throat.

Drusilla knew that the only sickness her lover felt was his growing feelings for his chit of a fiancé. Knowing him so well she had no doubt that he was falling in love with her, she needed a plan. She needed Angelus here fast to tell her what to do. Luckily the letter she had written but a few hours before was already on its way to the post. Angelus would know what to do.

She watched him carefully wash his hands. Why would he do that? His normal routine after he had played with her was to lick his own fingers clean. It was then she remembered that he thought she tasted like death with his fiancé tasted of lemon and peach.

Anger was rising fast within her. William had not looked her in the eye since he had left the bed and she could not control him if he did not look at her. Deciding that for the moment she would admit defeat, she placed a challenge before him.

“Will you visit me tonight my sweet?” she cooed at him. “I will be alone all evening and would very much like your company.

William, who had been lifting the brandy goblet to his lips, paused for a small second. Out of habit he replied. “Of course my love, I will arrive about 10 of the clock.”

Drusilla smiled at his profile, and promised.

“I will make it an evening to remember, my heart, do not be late.”

“I won’t princess. I promise.”

Without looking back, William left the room and closed the door behind him. All his instincts told him not to return the following night, yet he knew he would. He loved Drusilla and he wondered why he had refused her so open invitation to fuck.

Realisation hit him then. He did not want to lie with her because she was not Buffy. It was Buffy he wanted. It was Buffy he craved. And it was Buffy he would have.

Chapter 31 – A little help from your friends

AN* Please, please vote for me at the Sunny D awards – if you do I will bring Angelus home.



At eleven o’clock that morning, William knocked on Clem’s door. His friend was the only person he could trust and the only person who knew all the circumstances of his relationship with Buffy and Drusilla. In fact, William sure that Clem was half in love with Buffy himself, but would do nothing about it. Although he might should he think William did not care for his fiancé. William was at his friend’s door to reassure him that he indeed harbour deep feelings for Buffy.

Clem’s butler, Hodgkins, led William to the morning room. “His Lordship is in the stables, Lord Whitmore; I will send one of the footmen to inform him of your visit.”

William nodded at Hodgkins and moved towards the fire. Moving further into the room, William placed his right foot on the fender and his right arm along the fireplace. He still felt slightly confused over his time with Drusilla the previous night. He could not remember anything between gagging into a basin and falling asleep. Although this was not an unusual occurrence between he and Drusilla, it had been the first time he had thought about the lapse in time. He was still pondering this conundrum as Clem entered the room.

“Hello William,” Clem greeted him with a smile. “What brings you here at this time in the morning?”

“Could you ring for some coffee, Clem? I have a bit of a tale to tell you.”

Intrigued, Clem did as William bid. Within moments the coffee arrived and Clem indicated that they would pour their own. Handing his friend a cup of steaming black coffee, Clem could bear the suspense no longer.

“Out with it William,” Clem sighed as he stood before his friend. He had already resigned himself to listening to his friend’s latest tale of woe concerning Drusilla. Maybe he could talk some sense into William regarding the twisted whore.

When Clem noticed the beaming smile on William’s face, he started to worry in earnest. What had the rancid slut promised him now? Clem knew that William and Dru’s relationship was dark and twisted and in a small part of his brain he worried how his friend would treat Buffy once they were wed. From the tales William had shared with him about what he and Dru got up to between the sheets, he was convinced no gently bred woman such as Buffy should be subjected to such vulgarities. Women, in Clem’s opinion, were put on this earth to be worshipped and revered. Drusilla was put on this earth to tempt saints into sinners, and with William she had succeeded. He really did hate the fucking bitch.

Deciding to come straight to the point, William declared. “I have decided not to see Dru again, Clem.”

In shock, Clem moved to the nearest chair to sit, he stared up at his friend.

“I beg your pardon?” he asked in disbelief.

Once again William smiled at Clem. “Gone deaf in your old age my friend?” William moved from the fire to sit. Slowly, enunciating every word, he repeated “I said, I have decided not to see Dru again, Clem.”

Clem could not help himself, he had to ask. “Why?”

The smile died from William’s face as he replied. “I went to Dru last night. I was prepared to grovel to get her back, yet she greeted me as if she had said nothing to me in the Green Park.”

“Did you tell her about the arrangement with Buffy?”

William looked down at his coffee cup held loosely in his hands. “We did not get round to it.”

Clem could hardly imagine what they did get up to. Knowing both his friend’s reputation and Drusilla’s ‘tastes’, he dare not ask what they had been doing. Leaning back in his chair, he decided to let William talk. He had learned long ago that William would tell him more if not questioned.

“She was waiting for me, Clem.” William told him in a small voice, never taking his eyes from his coffee cup as if it was the most fascinating object in the world. “Laying back in her bed, she looked all wanton, warm and inviting. I hardly even kissed her, I just stripped down and started to get down to business, you know?” William looked up from his cup and smiled, almost shyly at his friend. “I went down on her Clem, liked she asked me to, and I was almost sick.”

Staring at his friend in astonishment, Clem’s mouth dropped almost to his chest.

“You were almost sick?” Clem asked when he could get his thoughts back together.

William sighed and replied, “Gagged in the basin on her dresser, and had to drink brandy to cover her taste.” William paused for a few seconds in his tale. “She tasted disgusting, Clem, almost as if she had not bathed in days. She reminded me of death.”

“How did she react?” Clem asked.

Looking up at the ceiling, as if for inspiration, he continued, “The thing is Clem, and this is what worries me, I cannot remember a thing after that until I woke up beside her a few hours later.”

This was almost too much for Clem to take in. “You remember nothing at all?”

“Nothing at all,” he agreed.

“How can you remember nothing at all, William?” Clem considered his friend carefully. “Did you go on to White’s and hit the brandy before going to see her?” Clem found it hard to say the bitch’s name.

“That’s just it Clem,” William looked with confused eyes at his friend, then laid his cup carefully on the table beside him. “I went straight to her house once I had seen you home. We only had two brandies and one glass of port at Craven’s, and even then we had spaced that out over three hours.” Looking at his hands crossed loosely in his lap, William continued. “I have spilled more drink than that and still been sober. We drank coffee or tea all night. You know this to be true. Clem, you were there.” William’s voice was desperate now as if he needed confirmation from his friend that his wits had not been addled when he visited Drusilla.

Disbelief was evident on Clem’s face.

“You can ask John Coachmen if you don’t believe me.”

Astonished that William would consider that he would not believe his friend, Clem asked softly. “Did Dru give you anything to drink when you arrived, Will?”

William sat quietly for almost a minute as the events of the night before came hazily to his mind.

“I do remember that I compared her taste to Buffy’s in my head and that was when I started to gag, then nothing.”

“Christ, this is terrible.” Inspired, Clem asked, “Maybe she had drugged the brandy, Will? There are such things out there that can make you forget things. Laudanum is so easy to find these days, maybe she had laced the brandy to make you sleep and keep you beside her.”

William looked at his friend, and smiled. “I thought that too at first, Clem, but I would have woken twelve hours later, not a few. I would also have a head like cotton wool when I woke, yet my mind was clear.” William continued in a small voice, “Except that I could not remember getting into bed to sleep with her. God, Clem, I even checked my dick to see if it was clean. I know I did not fuck her so why was I there?”

“I don’t know, Will.” Clem poured them more coffee as he spoke, he needed the stimulation the drink brought him and he was sure William would feel the same.

Knowing that William had not completed his tale, Clem handed William his cup and sat back to await the rest.

Taking a sip of the coffee, William decided to tell Clem more.

“When I woke up I was tucked around her back. You what it is like in the morning, Clem, you wake up to a warm female body and you want it.”

Nodding his agreement, Clem continued to drink his coffee and waited for William to continue.

“I started to feel her up and eventually she woke. I played with her a little bit, as you do, then it hit me.”

Clem could not stifle his curiosity. “What hit you, Will?”

William laughed harshly. “You are not going to believe this, Clem, but the smell of her hit me between eyes and I started to gag again. I got up from the bed and dressed as quickly as I could and got out of there. I think I told her I would be there at ten of the clock tonight, but I’m not sure. I just wanted to get out of there.”

For ten years Clem had wanted to have this conversation with William. When his friend had first taken up with the mad bitch, he could understand the attraction. Definitely not the case now, he had given up on trying to pry William from Drusilla’s side, yet it would appear that Will had managed this for himself.

Inside Clem rejoiced, but he carefully kept his face schooled into an expression of slight concern.

“And what of Buffy, William, what are your plans for after the marriage?” Clem asked innocently. He did not know that William had started to harbour feelings of jealousy at the camaraderie that obviously existed between Buffy and he.

“I remember one thing from last night, Clem.”

Clem moved slightly forwards in his chair. With the revelations the Will had told him this morning, he could only wonder what it could be.

William sat stiffly in the chair and stared at his friend with cold eyes. Clem backed away slightly as the only time he had seen William look at anyone like that it preceded a huge fight which ended in death for the other man.

“I love Buffy, Clem. I love her more that I ever did Drusilla. She is my sun where all I have ever had is darkness and evil. She’s the one, Clem.”

Clem could not believe that his friend’s expression could get any harder, yet it did. He could not understand why Will’s temper had focused on him.

“I’ve seen the way you look at her, Clem.” Clem gasped at his friend in astonishment. “I came here to tell you she is mine and I won’t let anyone else touch her, no matter what conditions she thinks to place on this marriage. I will follow her north and seduce her until she loves me again,” he declared.

With the words hanging between them, William rose and made to leave.

“I will make my own way out, Clem, and I will see you at Almacks tonight. Let me tell you this, my friend, “ He almost spat the words at Clem and continued, “if I find you making moon eyes at Buffy, I will call you out.”

As the door closed behind Will, Clem stared into space.

Good God man, he pondered of his friend. If William thought for one minute that he could easily win Buffy’s heart he was in for a great disappointment. Buffy would never trust him. That much was obvious if the terms of their agreement were true.

I believe she will shoot him through the heart if he goes near her, he thought. And I won’t stop her, Will is a fool who could have had everything and does not realise that he has already lost the one person he proclaims to love.

Clem decided he would not dance with Buffy at Almacks tonight. He valued his own life too much to deliberately anger his friend, who was definitely on a mission. Staring at the empty coffee cups on the side table, Clem sighed.

He would have to pick up the pieces of his friend’s heart again before the year was out. He had never been so positive of anything in his life.

Chapter 32 – The Headache

AN* to all the loyal readers who have continually reviewed, I love you all. I’m glad you appear to be enjoying your foray into my twisted mind, especially as we still have some way to go.



On with the story……



Standing on a dais while a modiste stuck pins into your body through cotton, was not a fun way to spend an afternoon. Buffy had arrived early this morning at Madame Piret’s to be fitted for her wedding gown and trousseau. Her measurements had been taken the previous day and this morning Madame was adding the finishing touches to the pattern of her gown. As she looked at herself in the full length mirror, Buffy wondered why everyone was making such a fuss.

The modiste clicked her tongue now and again as she stepped away from the soft cotton draped over Buffy. Madame Piret knew that this gown would be seen by a good many of the Ton’s wives and daughters, and it had to be perfect. Custom would boom for her little business if the dress was beautiful enough. Madame had been over the moon when the Duchess of Craven had asked her to design Lady Elizabeth’s dress.

Most of Buffy’s trousseau would be made up of gossamer night rails and sheer dressing gowns. Day dresses, evening dresses and riding habits, based on Lady Elizabeth’s measurements, were already under construction in the rooms above the shop. Accessories such as gloves, fans, stockings, underclothes, reticules and parasols had been ordered from Madame Gileaux near the end of Bond Street. Colours and materials had been matched and discussed by both Madame Piret and Gileaux the previous evening. Both women valued this commission highly and were prepared to move heaven and earth for perfection. Their livelihoods depended on the exposure this wedding would give both to their business and their name.

Buffy was bored now. Spying her mother sitting behind her on a comfy chair sipping tea, Buffy noticed that Lady Joyce would grimace now and again as though in pain, and would lift her gloved hand to her temple as if to ease an ache. Concerned that her mother was in considerable pain, she decided that this fitting would come to a close.

Haughtily, Buffy addressed the modiste. “Are we about finished for today, Madame? I fear my mother is suffering from the headache and it would be best if we returned home.”

Anxious to keep her best client happy, Madame nodded and told Buffy she would be only a few minutes longer.

Turning a concerned look towards her mother, Buffy asked if she would like to return home. Lady Joyce complied quickly and Willow, who had accompanied them, was sent to find the carriage.

At last Madame was happy with the fitting. She carefully lifted the cotton over Buffy’s head and laid it gently over a chair. “Will you be back tomorrow, my Lady?” she asked in faltering English. Buffy smiled at the modiste, it was not this woman’s fault that the wedding would be a farce. Let someone benefit from this unholy alliance other than Buffy’s own pocket.

“Indeed Madame, we shall be here at the same time tomorrow.”

Curtseying to Buffy, the modiste assured her “I shall ‘ave the first cut ready, my Lady.”

“Good, good Madame, we shall get through a lot tomorrow.” Calling for Willow to help her dress into her normal clothes, Buffy walked behind the screens in the corner of the room.

She was starting to become obsessed with her mother’s malady. The number of headaches suffered by her Grace was surely not normal. On occasion her mother had been too sick to leave her room, and Buffy was sure that her mother had forced herself to accompany her daughter to her fitting today. As soon as they were home, Buffy decided, she would make sure her mother went straight to bed to rest.

Once everyone was in the carriage, Buffy started to bark orders. Willow was to run into the house as soon as they got back to the mansion and prepare her Grace’s bedchamber. Once she was sure that everything was as it should be, Willow would go down to cook and ask for tea and scones to be sent to her Ladyship’s room immediately. The coachman was told to get back to the Craven mansion as quickly and safely as possible as her Grace was not well. He complied easily enough, as all the Craven staff loved their mistress very much and would do anything for her.

The return home did not take long. Buffy nodded to the footman as he opened the carriage door and set the steps to allow the occupants to alight. His face took on a look of horror as Willow almost threw herself from the carriage. It was unheard of for servants to precede their masters in any form. Willow noticed the look and whispered to the young man that her Grace was unwell. Taking Willow’s panic as his cue, he held out his hand with great care to Lady Joyce.

The Duchess of Craven smiled sweetly at the young man. She nodded her thanks and held his hand lightly as she stepped down. Faltering on the last step, Lady Joyce stumbled into the arms of the astonished footman. Buffy made a sound of distress behind her mother and jumped down from the coach like a hoyden. Without hesitation the young man lifted his mistress into his arms and carried her into the hallway. He did not stop, and made his way up the stairs with his burden followed closely by Buffy. Pausing at the entrance to her Grace’s bedchamber, he looked expectantly at Buffy for instruction.

Moving around the footman to open her mother’s bedroom door, Buffy asked him to follow her in and place her mother on the bed. The footman’s face went bright red and beads of sweat started to appear on his brow. No gentlemen from the servant class were allowed into the bedchambers of the female members of the family. This must be serious indeed, he thought, as he laid his precious burden down on the bed. His work done, he nodded quickly to both his employers and almost ran from the room. He did not want to get in trouble with Mr Giles, the butler, and lose his place; it would be best if he informed him of her Grace’s indisposition immediately and his part in helping her to her room.

Giles, in his usual confident manner, had already taken charge of the situation. Upon Willow’s dash into the house, he had quickly grasped that her Grace was again unwell. Instructing cook to prepare tea and sandwiches he set about instructing the servants of the duties he wished performed. One of the footmen was sent to fetch the physician, another sent to carry coal from the cellar for the fire and yet another was sent to an address in Chelsea to ask his Grace to return immediately. This last instruction was conveyed quietly outside the kitchen door. The task was given to a footman who had been with the family a number of years and knew exactly where to find his Grace.

In her mother’s room, Buffy organised the steady stream of servants in their tasks. The fire had been banked and teased into life, the refreshments had arrived and been placed on a small table by the window, Lady Joyce’s dresser had quickly changed her mistress into a night rail and a warming pan had been placed at the bottom of the bed. As each servant left, Buffy’s impatience grew. She quickly shooed the last of them away as she closed the heavy curtains which draped the windows and lit a few candles at the opposite end of the room which kept the light soft.

As Lady Joyce settled back against her pillows, Xander and Dawn crept into the room. Buffy could see that Dawn had been crying and even Xander looked worried. Dawn walked quickly to her mother’s side to sit beside her, while Xander walked towards Buffy.

His eyes, never leaving the pale form of his mother on the bed, he whispered to his sister. “What in God’s name happened to mother Buff?”

Tears welled in her eyes as she replied. “I’m not sure, Xander. I was being fitted for my wedding gown when I noticed she was ailing.” Glancing at the bed to make sure Dawn was not tiring their mother, she continued. “I am very worried Xander, these attacks are happening too many times for it just to be a headache. I will be glad when I can take her up north after the wedding as the air will be cleaner there and I think she needs to leave London.” Buffy bit her bottom lip as she looked at Xander’s profile. He had not taken his eyes from his mother in all the time she has spoken. In a small voice she continued. “I don’t think I could take it if we lost her, Xander, she means everything to me.”

Xander turned his head towards her and replied, “me too, Buffy, me too.”

As the siblings looked at one another in total understanding, a small knock was heard at the door. “Ah, the physician has arrived,” she smiled at Xander and opened the door.

Within minutes potions and pills were strewn across the table next to her mother’s bed. A small dose of laudanum was administered in water and her Grace drifted off to sleep. Xander led everyone out of the room and preceded them all to the drawing room. Ringing for refreshments, he bade them all sit while he stood in front of the fire and surveyed the room. Silence fell over the small band until tea was served. When the door had closed behind the servants, Xander started to speak.

“What exactly is wrong with our mother, Doctor?” he imperiously asked.

The physician decided to play for time as he already suspected the Duchess was dying. Such news should not be imparted to the younger members of the family, it was news he would only tell his Grace.

“Is his Grace, the Duke, at home Lord Summers?”

Xander face blushed slightly. He knew of his father’s antics with Lady Catherine and was not willing to share this information with his sisters. When Giles had sent the footman to his club to bid him home, the man had informed Xander that he was to continue to Chelsea and inform their father. As soon as the footman had mentioned Chelsea, Xander had known exactly where his father was. As a man of the ton, Xander did not judge his father’s actions. Men of his class married women to beget heirs and kept mistresses for their pleasure. He intended to do the same when he married Cordelia; he fully intended to set up his favourite whore in a house in Bloomsbury as soon as possible.

“His Grace is out of the house on business at the moment, but a messenger has been sent to bring him home.” Xander ignored the astonished looks his sisters sent him. Dukes did not do business away from home. Any business they needed to conduct came to them. Deciding to quickly carry on and stop any questions from his siblings, he looked again at the physician.

“I will ask you again, Doctor,” he asked in a voice that brooked no argument. “What is wrong with our mother? And I would advise you to answer quickly for I lose patience with this masquerade.”

The physician realised he would have to say something to placate the ducal family. He did not want to lose their patronage and he knew by the way the three siblings stared at him that they expected an answer.

Swallowing nervously, he decided to hedge his bets. “I have spoken at length to the Duke about her Grace’s health and advised him that the air in London is not conducive to her recovery.”

Buffy almost pounced on the man. “Recovery, sir?” she questioned in a falsetto voice. “From what, exactly, is my mother recovering?”

Anxious now that he had said too much but saying so little, the physician felt cold sweat begin to trickle down his spine.

“Her Grace does not do well in the London air, my Lady” he replied to Buffy. “I have advised your father that her Grace would do better in the country.”

Snorting her disgust, she ignored her brother’s gasp of astonishment at her manners and continued.

“I am to be married in three weeks and will be journeying to my new husband’s estates in the north. I fully intend that my mother and the Lady Dawn accompany me.”

Dawn started to rise in her seat, this was the first that she had heard that she would be leaving London in a few weeks and was anxious to know the details. Buffy knew her sister well enough to know what she was thinking and with the wave of a hand and a frowning look towards her, Dawn sat back and waited. Annoyed at the small interruption by her sister, Buffy decided to question the physician further.

“Will my mother be fit to travel by then, sir, as we do not wish to delay our departure?”

The physician sighed in relief. He had been trying to get the Duke to take his wife to the country for months and the Lady Elizabeth was handing him an answer to his prayers.

He smiled at the young woman in relief. “If you take the journey slowly, my Lady, and ensure that her Grace can rest whenever she sees fit, I see no reason why the journey should worsen her headaches.”

Buffy smiled in relief. She would plan this journey with care. It would probably mean that they could not start their journey till a few days after the wedding, but this would suit Buffy just as well. Fully intending to bank the money from William, this respite would give her the chance to do so and it would allow time to make further provision for her escape from her marriage.

As the thoughts swirled around her head, her father entered the room. Although he no longer loved his wife, in fact he doubted he ever had, he still did care for her well-being. He did not wish her death on his conscience and was glad that Buffy had decided to move her out of London. He had selfishly wanted this arrangement to allow more time between the thighs of his mistress, and he had arranged the marriage of Buffy to William with just such an end. However, as the health of his wife declined he resigned himself to the fact that she would be better in the country sooner rather than later. All the way home in his carriage he was surprised at the amount of guilt he felt that he had not arranged for Joyce to leave London sooner. He had tried to kill two birds with one stone; marry off his eldest daughter and remove his wife. His plans were working, but he wondered if he had kept Joyce in London too long. The wedding was but three weeks away, surely everything would be fine until then.

The physician rose as the Duke entered the room.

“Your Grace,” he bowed at Craven.

The Duke bowed his head slightly in acknowledgement.

Imperiously the Duke addressed the slightly shaking Doctor. “Well man, how is my wife?”

Both the Duke and the physician knew how ill her Grace had become yet they continued to keep the news from her children. The physician knew to say nothing that would make the family suspicious and answered Craven evasively. “Her headache is quite my bad today, your Grace. I have administered some laudanum to help her sleep and I would recommend no activity over the next week.”

Craven was not pleased by the reply. There was a wedding to plan and arrangements to make to ensure his wife and daughters were relocated as quickly as possible. This sort of activity he had always left to his wife, he did not have the experience to ensure that everything would run smoothly. He pulled himself up short at this thought. What would he do without his gentle wife to organise his household for such events. He would have to think about that another time. After all, a man in his position did not marry their mistress; it only left a vacancy he had no intention of taking the time to fill.

He nodded his dismissal to the physician who looked decidedly relieved to be leaving. Once he had scurried out the door, Craven turned to his children.

“We have much to do in the next few weeks to ensure that this wedding take place without expecting your mother to organise everything.” He turned to Buffy and told her pointedly. “Use whomever of the staff you wish to help you with the arrangements my dear. If you need to employ more secretaries to help with the invitations etc. then do so. Giles will be able to recommend the best agencies to help.” He smiled at her, before turning to Xander. “Xander, you must arrange safe passage for your mother and sisters to Annandale’s estates. Contact Lord William as quickly as possible and discuss the route well. I want someone sent on ahead to procure rooms for everyone, I will not have my family stay in a doss house.” Turning then to his youngest daughter, he gave her his most loving smile. “Your responsibility my dear Dawn, is to ensure your mother is not disturbed. You will attend to her needs making sure the servants make as little noise as possible. When you are required to accompany Buffy to her trousseau fittings, I will sit with Lady Joyce and read to her.”

With a commanding look of authority at his children, he continued.

“We must work together as a team. We cannot allow this to spoil Buffy’s big day and I would like your mother to be as well as possible for the event.” Again he turned to Buffy, “Will you be able to cope with all that is required, Buffy?”

Buffy stood from her chair. She had been impressed with her father for the first time in years. He had taken stock of the situation and organised them all into a group with a purpose. In a proud voice he informed him that they would all get started immediately.

Craven nodded and left the room, accompanied by Dawn, to see with his own eyes how his wife fared.

As the door closed behind him, Buffy turned to Xander. “I will send William a note immediately informing him that we will not be going to Almacks tonight, and ask that he visit us here. I will ask him to bring along Lord Clement too, that way the three of you can arrange our transport and lodgings for the journey.” She stared at Xander with steel in her eyes. “Nothing must go wrong on this journey, Xander. I want mother to be as comfortable as possible. If that means it will take us two weeks to reach Annandale rather than one, I do not care.”

Xander nodded in response. “You write the missive, Buffy. I will talk to Giles about sending a footman to Annandale house.”

Smiling at her brother, Buffy made her way to the desk to write a note to her intended. She sincerely hoped he was at home and not carousing with his whore. Shuddering slightly at the thought, she wondered why she cared. The only reason she was contacting William was that she needed him here to speak to Xander as soon as possible. Wasn’t it?

Shaking the thoughts from her head, she lifted a piece of ducal note paper and placed it on the blotting pad before her. Selecting one of the quills and moving a bottle of ink nearer her hand, she began to write.

Chapter 33 – Father and son


AN* Once again I am lost for words for all the wonderful reviews. I know I said this a few chapters back, but reviewing really does make my little fingers work faster. I am still astonished, and proud, that so many readers have at least opened my little tale.


This chapter is for Lindsey, my daughter’s friend from work, who loves this story. (Hope I spelled your name right babe)





William was bathing when the note arrived from Craven House. Lying in his sandalwood scented water, he had been thinking of his golden goddess and the pleasures of the night ahead. They had not danced a waltz together yet, and though she pretended that she did not want him, he knew that she was protecting her heart from him. Did her blame her? Not at all. Did he wish to see her? Most definitely. Did he wish her in his bed? Without a doubt. Would he be able to convince her that Drusilla was history? With difficulty, but he was willing to try. If the only way to hold her in his arms was to dance the waltz with her, he was more than willing to comply.

Rising from the bathwater, he wrapped up in the warm towels hanging near the grate. Drying his hands carefully before opening the note from Buffy, he could almost imagine the contents. She would cry off the visit to Almacks with some flimsy excuse. He did not really care for the ‘marriage mart’ as Almacks was known and would not feel too disappointed. Fully intending to visit with Buffy whatever the contents of the letter, he broke the seal and proceeded to read.

William scanned the contents quickly then slowly read the missive again. This was no idle excuse. The Duchess must indeed be gravely ill for Buffy to summon him to Craven House. He could not understand why she should wish Clem’s presence and a flare of jealousy speared his heart. It only lasted for a second when he realised the note of panic between the lines. Drying himself quickly he rang for his valet to help him dress. While waiting on him to arrive, William quickly penned a note to Clem to ask him to meet him at Craven House as soon as possible. He hoped Clem was at home and not with his mistress Faith whom, he was sure, his friend had not visited in some time.

Dressing quickly, he asked that his favourite horse be saddled and waiting. He would make sure he was at the Craven mansion as soon as possible. Disappointing Buffy was not an option. She wanted him there for a reason and he simply wanted to be with her.

Smithers held his greatcoat in both hands ready to fit it over his young master’s shoulders. As William adjusted the fit, his father emerged from the library. Looking at his son’s mode of dress, he frowned.

“Lady Jersey will not allow you into Almacks in that rig out, my boy. She turned away the Duke of Wellington for not wearing knee breeches, and he is England’s hero. Please do not tell me you are going somewhere else rather than accompany your fiancé?”

William turned towards his father and nodded his head towards the library. The Duke understood the unspoken command and preceded his son into the room. Once there, William showed his father Buffy’s note and explained his impatience to leave for Craven House.

Looking down at the note in his hand, Annandale spoke softly to his son.

“Joyce was a beautiful girl when she came out, William. Henry was lucky that they had been promised to each other almost from the cradle and did not even try to win her. I always thought that one day he would fall in love with her the way I loved your mother, but it was not to be. Craven does not like to be pushed into anything, and always resented the fact that he was not allowed to pick his own bride.” Annandale looked thoughtfully at his son as he continued. “Henry did his duty and got his heir on her, but he never gave her the love that her tender heart needed. She and your mother had their come out together and were great friends before we were married. Anne told me once that Joyce loved Henry very much and was the happiest woman alive on her wedding day. I doubt the man stayed faithful for longer than the bride trip.”

Annandale handed the note back to William before slowly turning his back on his son. As he looked into the fire burning in the grate, his soft voice drifted across the room.

“Do not hurt Buffy any more than you have to, William. She has a tender heart like her mother and if she has asked for your presence tonight it will be because she needs comfort and love. Lie to her if you must, but at least try and display some dignity in dealing with her.”

Staring at his father’s back for a few moments, William decided to put his father’s mind at rest.

“I love her very much, father.”

Annandale turned from the fire and his shocked look was not lost on his son.

“I have decided never to see Drusilla Angelus again. Buffy is everything I have ever wanted or needed and I promise you I will make her happy.”

His father’s look of shock turned to astonishment.

“When did you decide this, William? You have known each other less than a week.”

Smiling at his father, he asked “How long did it take you to fall in love with my mother, father?”

Annandale smiled his reply “The length of one dance at Almacks.” His eyes misted in remembrance. “I knew before the last chord of music that I had fallen in love once and forever. Your mother may not have been my first woman, William, but I made vows before God that she would be my last.”

William and his father shared a look of understanding before Annandale continued.

“If you love her as you say, William, then you must follow your heart and use all your charm and skill to make her stay at your side. You told me of your plans to move directly to the estates and that you would live on the dower estate while Buffy and her family live at Annandale. Make any excuse you can to live at Annandale my boy, even if you have to burn the dower house to the ground.”

Laughing at his father’s remarks, William reassured him.

“I had already decided on that course, father. I have sent word to the housekeeper at Annandale to prepare for our arrival, even to the point of which bedrooms are to be prepared. I have also sent word to the dower house to ensure that the place is not fit to live in by anything other than the farmyard cat. A small subterfuge, but hopefully one with a happy ending.”

His father laughed in return. “Go to your Buffy, William. Show her she can rely on your support through this.” Annandale’s face suddenly sobered in memory of the loss of his beloved wife. “If her mother is as bad as you think my boy, be prepared to be Buffy’s rock. All the Craven children are fond of their mother and this will be a huge blow if she dies. Craven will care not what happens to her as her role was to be the mother of his children and hostess to his friend’s wives. To be honest I doubt the bastard would move from his whore’s bed for a funeral.”

William was shocked at his father’s remarks. “Why do insist on this marriage when you dislike the man so much?”

“Why it’s quite simple, William” his father replied in a quiet voice. “Craven has two things this family needs. One is money and the other is one of the most beautiful daughters the ton can offer. You told me not five minutes ago that you loved her and have turned your back on Drusilla for her. Are you telling me now that I did not choose well for you?”

Taking a few seconds to consider his father’s arguments, William could not but agree that his father had indeed chosen the perfect bride for him.

The challenge now was to convince Buffy that this marriage could be built on love. With that thought in mind, William made his way to Craven House to offer comfort to his beloved.

Chapter 34 – Comfort and Love

AN* Please vote for me at Sunny D – please please please – I will post more if you do.






William arrived at Craven House almost the same time as Clem. The two friends looked at each other with trepidation. They had spoken only this morning and their conversation was still fresh in their minds. Clem wondered why William had asked him to meet him here, considering that only this morning he was sure his friend had accused him of falling for Buffy.

Each man handed their horse to the stable lad who had been tasked with waiting for them. William, taking the bull by the horns, walked up to his friend and shook his hand firmly.

“Thanks for coming, Clem” he smiled at his friend. “I was not sure you would, considering our talk this morning.”

Clem returned William’s smile. “What’s this all about, William?”

As quickly as he could William imparted the contents of Buffy’s missive. Clem’s shocked face did not surprise William in the least. He knew, at that moment, he had been correct in his assumption that Clem cared deeply for Buffy. Now was not the time to question him. His first priority was Buffy.

Giles opened the door to William’s knock and bid them into the hall.

“My Lords, thank you for responding so quickly. His Grace is waiting in the library, please follow me”

William and Clem looked at each other in confusion. As they crossed the hall behind the butler, both men wondered why Craven required their presence. Giles preceded them into the library announcing their entrance to his Grace. Craven rose from behind his desk, and indicated to Giles to pour the brandy. The duke asked Giles to summon Xander to join them.

“We have much to discuss, gentlemen, concerning this wedding.” Both William and Clem looked at each other in astonishment. They had not expected this. By the tone of Buffy’s note to William, they both expected to find a house almost in mourning.

Xander entered the room and for the first time since entering the mansion William realised that Lady Joyce must, indeed, be most unwell. The boy looked haggard and it was obvious he had been crying. Both men decided not to comment.

Craven addressed the assembled room. “Gentlemen, I asked Buffy to summon you here as we have a lot to do. My wife is quite ill and although is expected to be as good as new within the sennight, I do not wish a recurrence of her illness.” As he spoke he rose from his chair behind the large desk and walked to the centre of the room. He commanded the attention of all, but his eyes were on William. “To this end, William, I wish you and Lord Telford to work closely with my son to plan your journey to the north.”

William was shocked, surely if her Grace was ill would it not be best if she continued to live in London. He made his thoughts known to Craven. “Are you sure she should be moved, your Grace?”

“Indeed she should, William.” Craven replied. “Her doctor is convinced that we should move her out of London as soon as possible. With the wedding but three weeks away, we do not have much time to organise everything. What arrangements have been made for your arrival at Annandale?”

William thought about the conversation between he father and he just a short time ago. Annandale had been correct in his description of Craven’s character. His father would never have moved his mother three hundred miles away from home when she was ill. The difference between the two men was clear. Annandale had loved his wife more than his own life, Craven tolerated his. A deep feeling of resentment welled in his breast against this man, and he was pleased that he would be removing Buffy from his influence.

With great effort, William kept his disgust from his face and voice.

“I have sent word to Annandale, sir, to prepare for our arrival.”

Craven nodded, “Good, I am sending some of my own people to help. I know your estate is not at its best, William, which is why this marriage is so important to your family.”

Flushing with embarrassment at the duke’s reference to his family finances, William bit his tongue till he tasted blood. He wanted to kill this man where he stood for his obnoxious comments. How dare he wash the Annandale linen in public with such alacrity?

If he noticed William’s discomfort, the duke did not comment. He continued with his speech.

“Within the last hour I have sent word to Craven Hall to send skilled men to your estate. I do not know what state it is in, but I cannot remember the last time you or your father visited there.” Craven watched the indignation creep over William’s face. “I do not mean to be critical here, William, but I want my daughters and their mother to live in the type of home they deserve. If that means that I pay for this privilege then so be it. I will not be argued with on this matter, William. In fact you should be grateful I am willing to spend even more money on this marriage than I intended.”

Swallowing his pride, William could see then sense of Craven’s actions, and nodded his acceptance.

Turning to Clem, the duke addressed him directly. “I understand you and William are good friends.” Clem nodded as Craven continued. “Good. I am charging you with making sure that the best Inns are procured for the journey to Annandale. I would like you to go on ahead and pay for the rooms in advance.” Returning to his desk, he withdrew a small key from his waistcoat pocket and unlocked the drawers. Pulling out a roll of soft, he handed it to Clem. “Find out from my tiger where I have cattle stabled. Make sure there are enough fresh horses ready for change. Purchase them if you have to, I can always sell them again once the move is complete.”

The duke then turned to his son. “Xander my boy, I want you to work with Giles to organise the transport of servants and all the other things required for your mother’s comfort.” Craven could see by the look on his son’s face that Xander did not think that this task was important enough for his attention. He ignored his son’s reaction and carried on. “I want every comfort we can afford sent north Xander. Use Giles as much as you can. He will know the best agencies to find what you need.”

Xander started to protest. “Is there not something else I can do, father. This seems such an inconsequential task considering there must be so much to do.”

Craven stared at his son in disgust. “You think what I ask is too low for you, boy?” the duke questioned his son. “I want your mother to arrive to comfort and you will make sure it happens.”

Shrinking from his father’s tone, William watched the boy as he appeared to cower in the chair. Xander did not deserve such treatment from his father. The pup had stood up to William which considering his own reputation, one had to admire him for his valour. William decided to defend the young man.

“Is there not some other tasks that could be assigned to Xander, your grace. It would appear to me that your butler is quite capable of completing the moves, sir.”

The Duke was not used to people questioning his word. Lifting one eyebrow, he asked of William. “Do you have another suggestion, boy?”

Refusing to be intimidated, William made his suggestion. “Why not let Lord Alexander accompany Lord Telford in securing accommodation and horse flesh for the journey. He will surely know your taste in Inn’s and he would make sure your money is spent wisely.”

Luckily Clem was not offended. He recognised immediately what William was trying to do. Young though Xander was, it did not befit the son of a Duke to take on the duties of a servant.

Thoughtfully, Craven contemplated William’s suggestion. His son was not the sharpest knife in the drawer, but he had a large heart. This idea of William’s would suit his son well, especially with Telford doing all the work. He made a mental note to speak to Telford on his own during the evening.

“I think you are right, William. Xander can accompany Telford on his trip. He knows my standards and he will ensure they are met.”

Xander was grateful to William for his suggestion. This new task would suit him much better and would also get him away from his over-bearing father.

“Thank you for your trust, father.”

Craven smiled at his son. “I am sure you will not let me down, Xander.” Everyone could see the pride swell on his son’s face.

“Shall we join Buffy and Dawn, gentlemen. I am sure they will be in the drawing room” and with that comment he made for the library door.



Buffy and Dawn were sitting huddled together on the sofa. William’s heart rose into his throat at her distress. He could not help himself as he moved across the room and sat next to her. Without thought he lifted her hand to his lips for a kiss. Buffy stared red eyed at him, and in that moment he never thought her more beautiful. His love shone from his eyes as he smiled at his beloved. She smiled shyly in return and moved closer to him to lay her head on his shoulder.

William was in heaven, his golden goddess was by his side and he could feel the heat of her body next to his. He desperately wanted to kiss her but could not. He was not sure if she would allow him, and there were too many people in the room.

“Are you alright, sweetheart,” he whispered down to her.

Buffy shook her head from side to side. “Will you take me out of this room, William, I need some privacy.”

“Of course,” William rose and offered her his hand to rise. Once she was beside him he tucked her arm through his and informed all in the room that they were both going to the conservatory to talk. No one stopped them.

She kept her arm through his throughout their journey through the house. Buffy told William of the events of the day; including how her father had come home from business and issued his orders. Starting to cry once more, William removed her arm from his and gently moved his arm around her shoulders. “There there, sweetheart, please don’t cry, I don’t know what to do if you cry.” He found a handkerchief in his inside pocket and used to gently dry her tears.

William’s arm was still around her shoulders as they entered the conservatory and he used his other hand to close the doors.

Without hesitation William moved Buffy around until she stood in front of him. Closing both arms around her he drew her close. Moving into his embrace, Buffy lifted her arms and placed them around him. Holding on tight she moved her face against his chest as if seeking solace. William moved one hand to hold her tightly around her small waist while moving his other hand into her hair. Buffy forgot that she was supposed to hate this man; her being needed solace and this man was willing to give her it. All thoughts of his lies and tricks flew from her mind. All she needed at the moment, this man was willing to give her.

They stood like that for a long time, William gently rocking Buffy from side to side. Spying a low couch amongst the shrubbery he slowly guided her to it. William sat and drew her gently into his lap. He held her face against his shoulder and continued his soft rocking motion. There was no need for words. Words would have spoiled the moment.

Buffy continued to cry while William wiped away her tears. Through her own misery she could see how much her distress affected him. He was concerned for her, she was sure she could see it in his eyes. She lifted her face towards him and placed a small kiss on the corner of his mouth. “Thank you, William.” She softly whispered.

William moved his head slightly until their lips almost met. “Your welcome, luv.”

“Am I your love William?” she stared into his eyes.

As he lowered his head to kiss her lips he whispered, “Always, my angel, always.” The last words were said against her lips as closed the gap between them.

His kiss was light and teasing and Buffy revelled in the feeling of his soft lips against hers once more. He did not try to deepen the kiss keeping it to small nips and licks. She needed more. Maybe this would make her forget the pain of the mother’s illness. With determination, Buffy opened her mouth and let him in.

He did not need to be told twice. Without hesitation he slowly folded his tongue into her mouth and gently rubbed it against hers. Buffy’s tongue met his halfway and within moments their mouths were battling with each other. Arms tightened, and bodies moved close together in their frenzy. Without conscious thought, William started to lift the hem of her gown.

Between little nips and licks, William whispered against her lips. “Do you want me to make you feel good, sweetling? Do you want me to bring you joy? Do you want to see the stars?”

Buffy let her legs drop open to his rising hand. She needed this so badly. Not caring that she had promised both herself and him that this would never happen again, she wanted to feel something other than sorrow.

“Touch me, Spike, please” she pleaded as she writhed on his lap.

William swore he felt his heart swell in his chest at the sound of her pet name for him on her lips. He would make sure that she was well taken care of. He would keep her coming so many times she would forget her own name. With this resolve he kissed her softly once more as he moved his left hand to her cunt.

With a deftness borne of much practice, William found the little slit in her drawers. He could already feel her heat and her essence was pooling on his leg. A whiff of her arousal reached its way to his senses and he was immediately lost. She smelled so fresh, clean untainted and wonderful. He was home. Moving his lips from her mouth to the crook of her neck, he started to rein kisses along her collarbone as his hand began to gently tickle her outer folds. He could feel them swell at his touch, and he quickly parted them to feel the nectar dewing from her body.

He played her like a violin. Slowly he drew his fingers back and forth deliberately missing her clit each time. Every so often he would circle her hole spreading her wetness around. He was desperate to taste her but did not want to take this too far. He realised how lucky he was that his goddess was allowing him to touch her at all.

Buffy lay across his arm, eyes closed, and her face flushed with desire. William was touching her just the way she liked and she could feel her arousal increase with each stroke of his fingers. She opened his eyes and looked at him. He returned her look with such fierce desire that she knew instinctively what he wanted to do. Realising that she too wanted him to tongue her into oblivion, she nodded her head to him.

William knew exactly what she was telling him with her small nod of her beautiful neck. Without hesitation he withdrew his hand and lifted it to his mouth. With his long tongue he slowly cleaned his fingers of her juices while his eyes never left hers. He sucked each long digit into his mouth and slowly withdrew it. The look of ecstasy on his face as he closed his eyes savouring her taste was turning her on even more. Buffy moved from his lap to lie on the sofa and slowly opened her legs to him.

Never willing to turn down such an invitation, William quickly lifted her skirts and manoeuvred his head between her legs. Before he bent his head to taste his goddess he looked up at her face thrown back in want. It would be a sight that would stay with him forever. Smiling he moved his head downwards to love her with his mouth.

William licked her slowly from her puckered hole to her clit. She jerked under his ministrations and he was more in love than ever. He moved his tongue in small circles back towards her entrance before stabbing it inside her. She moaned as she ground herself against his mouth. Her juices were flowing freely now and he lapped at her like a cat with a bowl of cream. Small licks and kisses that sent sensation to her toes.

He decided that it was time to bring his fingers into play. Lifting his head slightly he blew softly on her swollen clit as he pushed one finger slowly inside her. He sat up straight and watched his finger disappearing inside her pretty pink pussy. She was so tight and wet that he was struggling not to pull out his cock and plunge it into her. He had decided before he started this that this time would be all for her. If wanking off in the privy was all he got from tonight, then so be it.

His eyes were glued to the open petals before him and he watched as her whole body writhed. She was moaning in earnest now, and he knew she was near the edge. He was enjoying himself too much to let this end so soon; he had to slow down the pace. Making sure this finger was well coated he slowly moved it to her pink puckered entrance. He moved her juice around the entrance for quite some time. Making sure she was well lubricated was imperative to this manoeuvre. Lifting a cushion from the sofa he placed it under her bottom.

Buffy lifted her head and looked at him. She had been enjoying him playing with the naughty place and now she wondered what he was going to do. William spied her slight distress and thought it best to put her at her ease.

“Do you trust me Pet?” he asked. Arousal had made his voice husky. “Do you trust me to make you feel good?”

She was beyond reasonable thought. William had brought her so close on three occasions so far and she realised it would not take much to push her over the edge. Whatever he had in mind would be enjoyable, of that she was sure.

“Make me feel good, Spike, make me feel everything.”

“Oh I will, little girl,” he replied, as once more he lowered his head.

Feeling his finger rub around her small hole once more, Buffy lay back and let herself relax. Spike would know what he was doing and she was sure she would love it. She gasped when she felt his tongue lick slowly around her arse. The sensation was wonderful. She moaned louder and almost bowed from the sofa when she felt his tongue make small stabbing motions against her hole.

While he was licking and stabbing at her arse, his fingers had moved to her pussy and she felt them stab inside her in time with his tongue. She cried to the ceiling at the sensation and wondered if she could ever feel anything so wonderful again. She was wrong.

William moved his juice covered fingers to her anus and gently pushed one inside. Buffy screamed at the sensation, not in pain but in wonder at the sensations she felt. He slowly moved his fingertip in and out moving deeper each time. When he got as far as the knuckle, he looked at Buffy and asked her to relax.

“This may hurt for a second, Buffy, but if you relax and work with me I promise it will be the most wonderful feeling in the world.”

Nodding her head, William could feel her take a deep breath and relax her body. He could feel the resistance against his finger loosen and he took advantage by pushing further into her. Buffy stiffened slightly at the sharp pain, but William knew it would be best to move quickly now. Once he was passed the barrier, he quickly found the little gland he as looking for and tickled it softly. He moved his head down and sucked on her clit hard.

Buffy fell apart. She had never in her life experienced such sensations. It seemed to go on and on. As one wave stopped, another started right behind it. She shook until her body gave out and the sensation began to become painful.

William seemed to know when enough was enough and stopped his ministrations to her poor cunt and arse. Without a doubt her Spike knew how to pleasure a woman well. She was a lucky woman.

It hit her then like a thunderbolt. She was not a lucky woman she was a cash cow to a womanising rakehell who cared nothing for her. Giving herself a few moments to allow her legs to start working again she quickly jumped from the sofa and straightened her dress.

She looked at William in horror, what in the world had she allowed him to do.

“I must return to my mother now” she dropped a small curtsey and made for the door.

William was by her side in a heartbeat. Grabbing her arm he pulled her round to face him.

“I will never stop you going to see your mother, Buffy” he told her. “I just thought that after what we have just shared a cuddle would not go amiss.”

Buffy stared at him in shock. He honestly thought that she would cuddle him? Not a chance in hell.

“You served your purpose, William,” she haughtily replied. “I needed some relief at the end of a bad day and you provided it. I’m sorry if you think there is more to it than that.”

He could not believe his ears. She could not mean it. There was no way she could respond the way she did to him and not feel something for him.

Realisation hit him then. She was not indifferent to him; she just did not trust him enough to believe his word.

He vowed then that he would make her trust him. He would stay at her side every day and every night they were married. He would never go out without her and he would love her all his life.

It would be enough, it had to be enough.

Chapter 35 – When the bell tolls


AN* Lots of updates for reviews – I promised therefore I have to deliver





A sombre air hung over the drawing room when Buffy and William returned. William had managed to catch up with Buffy and warned her that as they had left together they should return together. For a few seconds she had hesitated, then common sense had prevailed. Taking his arm outside the door they had entered together.

In the time they had been absent, Craven had wasted no time in instructing his son and Clem on exactly what was expected of them. He had also spoken to Giles and was sure the old retainer would follow his orders to the letter. Craven may not love his wife, but she was due the respect of any duchess, especially a very rich one. Lady Joyce had brought a substantial dowry to the Craven finances, and she deserved the best her money could buy.

Craven looked up from the papers on his desk as Buffy and William entered the room.

“Ah, child” he smiled at the couple. “You are returned I see.”

Buffy dropped a small curtsey to her father. “Indeed, papa. I thought to return William to your side before Dawn and I went to sit with mother for a while.” She turned on her smile and swept this countenance to all in the room. Clem and Xander had risen from their chairs as she had entered and once she had smiled at them quickly sat down. Dawn rose from her place on the sofa and moved to her side. As she passed William, he smiled at her and gently stroked her hair.

“Everything will be fine, bit, just wait and see”

Comforted by his attention, Dawn gave him a watery smile as she raised her hand for Buffy to hold. It had been a long time since her sister had held her hand, but Dawn needed that comfort now. Gripping tightly to one another, the sisters left the room.

As they made their way to the mother’s bedroom, Dawn’s curiosity began to rise. There were so many questions she wished to ask her sister regarding her fiancé and she was bursting to ask them. To Dawn, Lord William Whitmore was the most handsome man she had ever met and she was so jealous that her sister had caught the attention of such a gentleman.

Buffy looked down at Dawn’s hand held tightly within her own. She loved her little sister very much and wished she could protect her from the sight of their sick mother, but she knew this to be impossible. Their mother had always been the constant in their lives thanks to the fact that their father appeared to prefer to stay away from them. With the revelations of William’s life outside the home Buffy had come to realise that maybe, like William, his affection lay in some other woman’s bed.

She hurt deeply for her mother who had to know where her father spent his evenings and most of his days and she was determined never to let William’s behaviour make her unhappy. Once they had travelled to Annandale, she would be far too busy bringing the estate to order and planning her divorce to care what he did. He could have his whore at the dower estate for all she cared, as long as they did not have to meet.

Deciding that she would speak to William in the next few days to find out if her father, indeed, kept a second household would be a good plan. If she knew all the facts, she could set things in motion accordingly. She not only wanted revenge on William for his money grabbing ways, she also wanted revenge on a father who did not love his wife or children and preferred a whore’s bed. Before she was finished with either of them, she would break them.

When they finally reached their mother’s rooms, Buffy and Dawn entered silently. Lady Joyce’s maid, Kitty, was sitting by her bed reading to her from Miss Austen’s ‘Pride and Prejudice’. Buffy and Dawn knew the book to be one of their mother’s favourites and both were pleased to see their mother sitting up against her pillows looking pale but in better health.

Hold out her hands to her two girls, her Grace bounced on the bed as the two jumped on the bed beside her. Each girl lay cuddled next to her, one on either side, and she held them close. Her husband may not love her, but her children adored her. It was this that had kept her going throughout her married life. Sighing with contentment, Lady Joyce let herself move further down the bed to cuddle her babies.

Buffy and Dawn had both started to weep. The relief of seeing their mother sitting up in bed had been too much for both of them. Buffy lifted her face to her mother’s and feeling her daughter shift against her, Lady Joyce looked down and smiled.

“I am feeling so much better now, my dear,” her mother reassured her. “I think I will try to come down to dinner this evening.”

“No mother,” both girls replied in unison. Lady Joyce looked startled at their vehement response.

Buffy spoke for both sisters. “There is no need mother. Father has William, Xander and Clem to join him for dinner this evening.” Pulling a wry look, she continued. “Father has taken over the plans for the wedding and the bride trip to Annandale. He has been closeted with the men most of the afternoon making plans.” Taking the bull by the horns, Buffy decided it was time to tell her mother that she and Dawn would accompany Buffy to Annandale.

“Mother,” she said in a small voice. “Father thinks that you would do better in the country air, away from the fumes of London.”

Her mother looked startled and started to protest, but Buffy carried on.

“I agree with father on this, mother, and William agrees that you and Dawn must accompany us to Annandale. Father and William are making all the arrangements as we speak and it is only up to Dawn and I to make sure that you are comfortable on the journey.” Buffy continued with a grin. “He has even managed to get Lord Telford to help, mother, and I trust Clem to make sure that our journey is safe.”

Lady Joyce fell back against her pillows. She frowned down at her daughter and asked in a small voice. “Are you sure you wish us to join you on your honeymoon, Buffy?”

“Without a doubt, mother” she smiled back at her. “It is not as though William and I will be sharing the same house. He has agreed to live on the dower estate which is ten miles distant from Annandale. We three will be as snug as a bug in a rug and, I believe, quite content in each others company.”

Again Lady Joyce frowned at Buffy, but wisely said nothing. She was glad she was removing from London, but she was not content with her daughter’s marriage. On a few occasions in William’s presence he had seen her look at her daughter with love in his eyes and was sure that Buffy did not notice. Knowing that her daughter was using the man for her own independence did not sit well with her, yet she could not fault her thinking. If she, herself, had known what a loveless marriage meant to the soul she would never had married Henry.

She had loved him with all her young heart, but within a month of the marriage she had been pregnant with Alexander and her loving husband would come to her bed reeking of another woman’s perfume. They shared a bed on very few occasions after that. It was not that Lady Joyce barred her husband from the bed chamber; he just did not visit very much. In fact he visited so little that Lady Joyce was surprised that she had borne him more than one offspring.

Buffy sat up on the bed and looked at her mother and sister lying so close together. “Let’s all have dinner on a tray in here, mother. We could have a picnic on the bed; just you, Dawn and I.” Smiling to herself at her own suggestion and the happy smile that brightened her sister’s face, Buffy stood up from the bed and straightened her clothes.

“I will go down and inform father that we will have dinner here.” Buffy said brightly as she made for the door. “I will speak to cook about some sandwiches, cake and lemonade.” Turning to her sister who seemed to cling to their mother even more, she added. “Will that suit you Dawnie? Will you be happy to have a picnic dinner today?”

Dawn look so fragile lying next to her mother on the bed. She smiled her thanks to Buffy while nodding her head. Buffy smiled back at her sister, before leaving the bed chamber to make her way down to the drawing room.

Glancing at the clock as she entered, Buffy could not believe that is was almost nine in the evening. This had, indeed, been a long day. Turning to her father she neatly informed him that both Dawn and she would take dinner in their mother’s room and would not be returning to their company that evening. She curtseyed sweetly to William and Clem and bid them good evening. She was almost through the door when William replied.

“We hope to see you at breakfast tomorrow, my love.”

William watched her back slightly stiffen and smiled to himself. Disconcerting her had become a new game to him. She may leave him aching in want, but he would make sure he had the last word.

“Your father wishes Clem and I to stay here tonight, sweetheart” he informed her as she slowly turned back to face the room. Her look of astonishment at his words pleased him immensely. “We have much to get through before the wedding, pet, and it would be best if all was done from this house.” He was enjoying using the pet names she had barred him from uttering. Knowing she could not put him down for their use in front of the male members of her family was like teasing her into submission.

Buffy crossed her hands in front of her to stop herself from slapping him silly. “Indeed,” she replied. Looking haughtily at her father, she asked in an over-sweet voice, “Has Giles been informed, father, that we have guests? I am about to speak to cook about dinner for mother and would be pleased to tell him for you.”

Craven did not detect the sarcasm in her voice as he was too pre-occupied with sorting out the wedding arrangements and the transport of his wife from London.

“I have spoken to Giles, Buffy, and the guestrooms are being made ready. We will be dining soon and then we have much to discuss.”

Buffy smiled at her father, and William could tell by her face that she was doing everything to keep her temper in check.

“Then I will see you all at breakfast, father.” And with that she turned and left the room. A small part of her was glad that tonight William would not be in the arms of his whore, and she shook her head from side to side to dispel the thought. William could lie where he liked, he would not be between her thighs again. Removing all thoughts of William from her mind, she made her way down to cook to ask for the picnic.



All the men gathered in the dining room ready for dinner. Talk was strained and forced. Even Craven looked uncomfortable and William had the feeling that the old roué was desperate to leave for Chelsea. A deep feeling of resentment rose in his breast. How could the man go from his wife’s sick bed to his whore so easily?

William answered his own question. You can do it when you do not care for the person you are leaving. Did he not think only a few days ago that he could easily go from Buffy to Drusilla without a qualm? Not now, he told himself, he would never leave Buffy now. He must try to inveigle an invitation from the duke to stay at Craven House as often as he could before the wedding. Out of sight was out of mind and he needed to be with Buffy, even if all she offered him was friendship.

Finally the meal was over and the gentlemen returned to the drawing room to continue their port. As there were no women present, Craven poured brandy for all and handed round the glasses.

“A toast, I think, is in order gentlemen?” Craven raised his glass to the room. “May this wedding be as successful as my own has been, and let us toast the health of my dear wife who I am sure is well on the mend.”

The three men stared at Craven in almost disbelief. They all knew that he was more of a rake than either William or Clem had ever been. Lifting his glass, William replied. “May we be blessed with many offspring, your grace, to carry on the Annandale dynasty.”

The toast over, Craven made his excuse to leave the house. All knew where he was going and all had the same feeling of disgust. William and Clem chose not to comment to Xander on his father’s actions as they knew he would feel bad enough. Rising quickly after his father’s departure, Xander excused himself from the gentlemen’s presence and left the room.

Clem and William stared at one another across the Craven drawing room. Deciding it was the right time to talk to William about the latest developments in his bizarre courtship, he rounded on him.

“Christ, William, I know we are friends but this whole wedding thing of yours is becoming totally out of hand.”

William smiled at his friend and took another sip of brandy before he replied. “I know, Clem; and this is quite hard to say as I am quite fond of Lady Joyce, but I am glad to be staying in this house so close to Buffy.”

Narrowing his eyes in suspicion, Clem leaned forward in his chair and asked his friend sweetly.

“And why would that be Will?”

William laughed softly as he took yet another sip. “Not for the reasons you think old friend. I happen to love her very much and I just want to be here if she needs me.” He looked down dejectedly at the brandy balloon warming in his hands. “I just wished she needed me more.”

Clem looked across the room at the top of his friend’s head and almost threw his glass at him. He was like a child picking petals from a daisy with his ‘I love her, I love Drusilla’ attitude. As a man he wanted to support him, as a friend he wanted to hit him. He almost screamed ‘come to your senses and tell that slut to fuck off’, but he knew he would not do it. William appeared to want Buffy more than Drusilla just now and he would support this course of action with all his being.

William looked up at the clock over the mantle as it struck eleven. In the back of his mind he thought he should have been somewhere this evening yet he could not quite recall where.

Then it came back to him in a rush. He was supposed to have met Drusilla at ten this evening.

Sod her, he thought, Buffy needed him to comfort her, while Dru just wanted him to fuck her. She could find another fuck tonight.



One mile from Craven House, Lady Drusilla Angelus was sitting naked in her bed chamber. She had been waiting for over an hour for her toy to appear and he had not arrived. If he was going to be late he always sent a note or message to her. That little ploy had been very useful on occasion as she had been able to remove whomever was sharing her bed before he arrived. He had not sent a note or message this time. Was he toying with her affections? Had sunshine been successful in taking him away? No, she thought, her hold on William was too deep for any hussy to break.

She would send him a note on the morrow to join her the next night. He would come to see her when he got her note. She rarely corresponded with him and he was like a puppy when she did. All excited that its master had shown it attention.

Yes, that is what she would do. She would play with her puppy tomorrow.

Chapter 36 – The Visit

AN* Thanks again for all the lovely reviews, I really appreciate them.






Giles escorted William and Clem to their allotted rooms later that night. Footmen had been sent earlier in the evening to request both gentlemen’s valets attend their masters, and portmanteaus had been delivered from each household with clothes. Clem had written a note to Faith explaining the situation he now found himself in and instructions that she was to pick a bauble or two from her favourite jeweller to compensate for his absence.

William had received a note back from his father informing him that he would be calling the next day to find out if he could help. A warm feeling grew inside him at the concern his father displayed for the Craven family. The Annandale clan may not have a pot to piss in, but they loved with a passion which knew no bounds.

As he got ready for bed, William wondered if Buffy would still be awake. Normally he slept in nothing that nature did not provide, but he made sure he had a nightshirt and dressing gown this evening. If Buffy decided to pay a visit, he did not intend to frighten her away. Instinctively he knew that he had a lot of bridges to build with his golden goddess and he was not prepared to do anything that brought those bridges down. She was still fighting his attention, but with the arrogance of all handsome men, he knew he would win her eventually.

Drusilla would not be a problem, he decided. He would simply not see her any more. No correspondence would pass to her from him in the future. She had never contacted him much in all the time they had been intimate as he had always seen her at least once a day in the last ten years. The only time he did not see her was when Angelus was home. He found himself hoping that Angelus would be home for his yearly visit soon as this would keep her out of the way until he married. Laughing at himself for realising just how much he had changed in his feelings towards Dru was a revelation. In the last ten years he used to drink himself into oblivion when Angelus was home as he had exclusive rights to his dark princess and he had been banished to the sidelines until Angelus returned to Ireland.

William dismissed his valet once he was ready for bed. Clem and he had talked for a long time once the Craven men had disappeared after dinner. They had planned the route to Annandale carefully and had calculated the number of stops they would make on the journey. Both men agreed that three coaches would be required for the bridal party and their trusted servants to travel comfortably. Clothes and additional manpower would be transported within the next few days to ensure Annandale was ready to accept its new inhabitants. Though William had bristled at the duke for mentioning his family’s misfortune with money, he could accept the fact that anything that would make his future wife’s family happy was worth his pride.

His heart started to hammer in his chest when he heard a light tap on his door. He quickly covered his lower half with the quilt as his cock had started to rise at the thought it might be Buffy coming to visit. He cleared his throat and bid his visitor enter.

Buffy had talked to her own conscience for over two hours before making the journey to William’s room. She knew that she should not visit him in his bed chamber, but she needed to talk to him. He had lost his mother some years ago and she felt he would at least understand how she felt. When she heard his voice call her to enter she slipped silently into the room.

She did not expect him to be in bed. In her imaginings she believed he would stay up half the night drinking her father’s best brandy before falling asleep in his clothes. Standing frozen at his door, she stared at him.

William could see her fright and was glad he had the aforethought to be dressed in a nightshirt. He dare not rise from the bed as his hard on was raging at the sight of his goddess in a plain white nightrail and a thin cotton dressing gown. Her hair was tumbled down her back in golden waves. He had never seen it down before and the sight took his breath away. She was just so beautiful, how could he not love her.

“Come in and sit down, p…, sorry I mean Buffy”

Buffy smiled shyly at his comment. She knew he had almost called her pet but she had forbidden his use of such intimacies between them. Walking slowly towards the bed until she stood beside him, she gathered her courage to speak.

“I could not sleep, William” Buffy whispered to him as she nervously twisted her hands in front of her. “I thought I could talk to you if you would let me.”

William smiled at his goddess and gently patted the bed to show he wanted her beside him. Buffy looked nervously around the room not sure if she should join him or not. Quickly realising that she felt shy even with all that they had done for one another, William lifted his hand and gently clasped her bloodless fingers in his own and drew her down beside him. He made sure that she lay on top of the covers so that she felt safe with him. He wrapped his arms around her and drew her head to his chest. He had never felt more at peace in his life and would have been content just to hold her forever, but his instinct told him she needed to talk.

“Comfy, luv?” he asked, not even realising he had used an endearment.

Buffy smiled against his chest. “Very comfy, William, thank you.”

Happy to hold his love, William said nothing in reply and simply held her. He knew she would start talking as soon as she was ready, and he would ignore his raging libido and let her talk. Wanting nothing more than to pound her into the mattress, he decided to think non-Buffy thoughts to dampen his feelings. With her body and her scent surrounding him, it was going to be one of the hardest things he would ever have to do.

“I am feeling quite cold, William” Buffy said into his chest. “Can I come under the covers with you?”

William stopped breathing, he was sure his heart had stopped. Taking a large gulp of air, he decided to tell her some truths. He put his left hand under her chin and lifted his face towards his.

“I don’t think that would be a good idea, Buffy, I’m as hard as a rock under here.”

Buffy giggled at his response and felt her sex start to swell at the thought. Deciding she would tease him a little, she moved one of her hands down the outside of the covers and grasped his manhood tightly.

William closed his eyes and arched from the bed at her touch.

“Witch!” he whispered into her hair. “Do you know how you torture me?”

Buffy giggled more and squeezed him once again.

“Do you want me to get rid of that for you Spike, before we talk?”

William was beyond coherent thought. His goddess was holding him and offering to take away his pain, how could he refuse. He lifted her head towards him once more and placed a chaste kiss on her lips.

“I want you to touch me all the time, sweetheart, but I know you do not trust me right now so I would never ask you to do anything you did not want to do.”

Buffy was taken aback by his answer. Here she was lying in his bed holding his raging cock and he was not demanding she satisfy him. His response confused her, yet his determination not to make her do anything that was not freely given shone from his eyes.

Lifting her head towards his mouth, she kissed him as gently as he had kissed her. Taking her cue from him, she nibbled at his bottom lip. When her refused to open his mouth, she stroked his cock again and again through the covers. William gasped at the sensation and Buffy took immediate advantage and coaxed her tongue into his mouth to play with his. Within seconds the two were rolling backwards and forwards on the bed, each trying to dominate the other with their kisses. In the ensuing struggle, the covers had rolled back and both Buffy and William’s night clothes had ridden up to their waists.

Realising he was two seconds away from taking Buffy’s virginity, William pulled back. Sitting up on the bed he lifted his hands to his face and started to pant heavily. Buffy followed suit immediately. She, too, realised that she had been one step away from letting William fuck her. That was not in the plan. Relief poured into her veins that William had had the decency to stop before any damage was done, but she throbbed with want for him just the same.

Between pants, William whispered into his hands. “If you don’t leave this bed in ten seconds, luv, I don’t think I will be able to stop myself from taking you.”

Buffy admired his honesty, but did not want to go. She was still determined that he would not put his thing inside her, but she could certainly take away his need. Moving herself into a position where she sat by his knees facing him, she gently lifted his hands away from his face.

“Lie down, Spike” she told him as she gently pushed at his chest to help him lie back. “Let me take care of your problem.”

Helpless to do anything but what she asked, he lay back against the pillows. Buffy stood from the bed and moved to stand at his feet. She moved her eyes slowly from his feet to his eyes and was displeased that he still wore his nightshirt. Looking him directly in the eyes she bid him remove his night clothes. Without a seconds hesitation the night shirt was on the floor at the side of the bed, and William was again lying back letting her see her fill.

Although they had played with each other quite a lot over the last week, she had never seen him naked. He was truly beautiful. Regular exercise on horseback and at Gentlemen Jackson’s gym had given him a physique like the Greek statues she had seen at the British museum. However his large manhood was most certainly far better proportioned that the tiny penises she had seen on display. She could not help but stare at him lying there ready for her. His cock was almost purple with need and his pre-cum was running down his dick pooling at his balls.

William could not keep the smugness from his voice. He knew he was a fine figure of a man, many women had told him so over the years. Deciding to let her truly see what she did to him, he opened his legs a little more and dropped his left hand to his dick and gave it a gentle squeeze.

He was shocked when Buffy batted his hand away.

“Do not touch it, William, only I am allowed to touch it tonight.”

“Then touch it soon, sweetheart,” he pleaded with his tormentor. “I am dying here.”

Buffy smiled at him and whispered to him, “Not yet, Spike, I want to touch you in other places first.”

If possible his cock grew harder at the thought. Smiling at his love he waved his hand indicating she could start at any time. When she bent to lift her nightrail over her head, William lost the capacity to breathe. She stood before him in all her glory and he fell more in love than ever. Her golden skin shone in the candlelight and he knew he had never seen a vision such as she. Her long golden hair fell in waves almost to her waist and he was disappointed that some covered her glorious breasts. As if she could read his mind, Buffy lifted her hair and threw it over her shoulders so it lay down her back.

Buffy ran her hands slowly from her neck to her breasts. She rubbed them slowly with both hands and arched her back in pleasure. William stared at her, the want shining from his eyes. He started to rise and immediately lay back down again when she stopped her play and frowned at him. If his goddess wanted to torment him, he was more than willing to let her.

Smiling at his acquiescence, Buffy continued to play with her breasts. William’s mouth watered at the sight of her pulling on her nipples till they stood proud before him. Moving her hands slowly down her body she placed her right hand over her mound and he watched fascinated as she opened her legs a little to flick her clit. She shuddered at the contact and he wanted nothing more than to replace her hands with his. He was about to give in to temptation and place his hand on his dick once more, when she stopped and moved her hand to his feet.

“I want you to smell of me, William.” She breathed at him. “I want to cover you in my scent.”

Once more her hand returned to her sopping pussy and she pushed her two fists against her hole for a few seconds. When she moved them away, both hands were covered in her juices. Fascinated at the sight, William lay there wondering what she was going to do.

Moving round the bed until she was standing level with his face, she lifted her hand and rubbed one finger over his lips. William flicked his tongue against it and lapped at her finger like a cat. Her wonderful taste spread over his tongue. He could smell her musky odour on her hand and he arched from the bed. It was taking all his self control not to take her.

Leaning down, Buffy swirled her tongue into his ear as he lapped her juice. “Don’t move your hands, Spike, I don’t want to have to tie you down.”

Christ! Could this woman turn him on any more that she already did. He was writhing on the bed and she had not even touched him yet. Did she know how much he liked to be tied down, and how much he liked to do the tying? He made a promise to himself that he would do that do that to her soon, but not tonight. That type of play required a trust she did not hold for him yet.

Buffy moved once again to the bottom of the bed and stared at he fiancé in all his glory. Again she rubbed her hands and gathered more of her juice before she began. Slowly she lifted his foot to her mouth and began to nibble on his toes. While she moved her mouth nibbling from toe to toe, she slowly moved her hand up his calf rubbing her juice into his skin. She turned her ministrations to his other foot and nibbled on his toes once more while she rubbed herself into him.

William was in heaven. Buffy was making love to him while she branded him with her scent. He never wanted to take a bath again. He would be happy to die covered in her. His brain lost coherent thought as she placed his foot back on the counterpane. Opening his legs wide enough to wriggle on her stomach between them, she kissed her way slowly up his legs. Alternating from leg to leg she stoked him gently where ever she kissed. His cock was twitching with need and yet she ignored it. As she moved up towards his balls, William let his legs move further apart. With infinite patience she moved her mouth to his balls and gently sucked one into her mouth while pushing her chin against the swollen part behind them.

William reared off the bed as he came and had to bite hard on the coverlet to stop his roaring. Thick streaks of cum spurted over his chest and abdomen. Buffy stopped her ministrations and stared at the spectacle. She could not believe that this had happened when she had not laid a finger on his cock.

She was still staring at his cum from her position between his legs when William came back down to earth. Without thought, she lifted herself over him and started to clean him with her tongue. She lapped at him with long strokes of her tongue, her breasts brushing against his softening cock.

William was in heaven. Never in his life had he been through such an experience, and his goddess was lapping at him like a kitten removing the evidence. God, how he loved this girl, and would for the rest of his life. She could do this to him, yet she was still a virgin.

When Buffy had finished her ministrations, she pouted at him. “You were to smell of me, Spike, not yourself.”

He pulled her into his arms and wrapped his satiated body around her. “I know, my darling, but you were too good and I could not stop it.”

Buffy beamed up at him and asked shyly. “Was it really that good, Spike? You know I have never done anything with anyone but you, but I just followed my instinct which seemed to guide me. Do you understand what I am trying to say?”

“Oh Buffy, you were truly wonderful.” William reassured her. “But turnabout is fair play and I would like to do something for you that I have wanted to do since the first night I played with your cunt.”

Slightly taken aback by his coarseness, she was quick to answer. “I don’t want to go the full way, Spike. I want to stay a virgin for our wedding.”

“And you shall, my love. All I want to do it shave you clean.”

Buffy stared at William in horror. “You wish to shave my hair off?” she cried as she lifted her hand to her head as if to reassure herself it was still there.

William laughed softly at her response. She was just so adorable that he wanted to eat her up. Well, maybe once he had shaved her, he would. In fact there was no maybe about it, he definitely would.

“No sweetheart, I don’t want you to ever cut your hair.” He lifted his hand and caressed her hair from scalp to tip, making sure to rub against her breast on the way down. Watching her eyes glaze over in lust was his just reward for his reply. Moving his hand along her hip, he moved it slowly down to her mound. As he slipped his index finger into her crack, he whispered against her open lips. “I want to shave you here sweetheart. I want to be able to see your gorgeous pussy lie bare to my eyes. I want know when you are ready for me, and I want to do it because it will give us both pleasure.”

Buffy stared at him and bit her bottom lip before she replied. “Will it hurt, Spike? It hurts when I rub the stones on my legs to remove the hairs that grow there.”

Smiling with confidence at his goddess, William did her best to reassure her. “There will be no pain, luv, only fantastic pleasure I promise you.”

Looking up into his face, Buffy decided that for this night she would trust him.

“What do you want me to do to help you, Spike”

William smiled at her. “Nothing sweetheart, just let me heat some water and I will do the rest.”

Rising from the bed, William poured some water into the swing kettle over the fire to heat. Confident in his nudity, he strode around the room gathering items and laid them on the table beside the bed. First was the washbowl, his flannel, followed by his shaving brush and soap. When all the items were in place, William walked towards her with a towel in his hand. “On your back, darling, and lift that pretty bum of yours. I need to put the towel beneath you or we could soak the bed.” Buffy complied easily and shivered as he tickled her bum cheeks as he placed the towel under her. Returning to his tasks he lifted his razor and strop. Buffy watched in trepidation as he stropped the razor to sharpen the edge. Anxiety built at what he was about to do, but also a tingling feeling in her pussy. She wondered if she would enjoy being shaved.

William lifted the kettle from the fire and poured some into the washbowl. He tested the temperature with his hand and found it was a little too hot to start right away. Smiling to himself he was glad. It would be a pleasure to prepare her for this. Moving onto the bed to lie beside her, he gathered her into his arms and drew her into a kiss. Tongues battled, teeth clashed and hands wandered. William lifted his mouth and started to kiss his way down to her breasts.

“I have wanted to taste these titties since your played with them for me.” He murmured against her nipple. Buffy thrust herself into his mouth, desperate for him to suckle. William did not demur at the invitation and on her nipple hard as his hand plucked its twin. She was writhing beneath him and William found it hard to concentrate on the task he wished to perform. Once again he was rock hard and his dick knew exactly where it wanted to go.

“Let’s move you to the edge of the bed, sweets, I need room to manoeuvre.”

With great care, William positioned her at sideways on the bed placing a towel covered pillow beneath her and placing another at her head.

“Please try not to move, sweetheart, I don’t want to slip.” Buffy lifted her head from the pillow to frown at him and he smiled at her in return. “Just lie back and enjoy, princess, you are going to love this.”

William placed a cushion on the floor for him to kneel upon between her wide spread legs. He lifted each foot carefully and placed it where he could spread her wide to his gaze. Not able to resist the feast before him, he bent his head and gave her a long slow lick. Forcing himself back from her before he feasted more, he promised himself he would lick her dry at the end of this.

Lifting his flannel from the table, William dipped it in the now cooled water and squeezed. Gently he wet her curls ready for the soap, and was pleased to see her pussy lips swell at his ministrations. Lathering the soap with his shaving brush, he made sure that it was well coated before brushing into her mound. He used circular motions of the brush to apply the soap evenly and deliberately brushed across her clit more than once. Buffy’s body twitched beneath his hands, but he did not comment and continued to soap her well.

When he was satisfied that the razor would shave cleanly, he started at her mound and gently but firmly started to shave. Buffy could hear and feel the scrape of the razor against her skin, and she could also feel her own juice pour from her. She would never have believed that such an act could be so intimate and thrilling.

William continued to shave her with an expertise that she did not wish to question. He pulled at her outer lips to keep them taught, and when complete he swirled his thumb around her hole. This was exquisite torture. The thrill that he might hurt her added to the excitement and when he applied the brush once more to her aching clit, she was glad he did not have the razor anywhere near her as she bowed from the bed.

“Christ, Spike, what the fuck are you doing to me?” she swore at him.

William’s head fell back on his shoulders and he laughed out loud. “You are talking like a fishwife, Buffy, mind your language.” This girl was such a contradiction that he could not help but want her forever. She would never bore him, of that he was certain. “I’m almost finished, pet, so lie still like a good fishwife.”

Buffy could not help but laugh at him. How easy his company was when he was not trying to fleece her. At the moment she did not care about money as long as he kept her on edge like this.

William went back to work. As her pussy bared itself to him he was more in awe of her than ever. Bare and wet she was a work of art that only he would admire. Once he was sure that all traces of hair had gone, he gently used his flannel to wash away the soap and carefully dried her with the towel. She was so beautiful like that. He bid her lie as she was and rose from his knees. He turned his back from her and went to the long mirror near the door. Luckily it was on wheels and he rolled it between her legs.

“Look at yourself, pet. Have you ever seen a more beautiful sight?”

Lifting her head slowly from the pillow, Buffy stared at her bare mound in the mirror. She had to admit that he had done a good job and she was amazed at how much of her was on show. She moved her eyes to his and asked. “Do you like it, Spike?”

“Just let me put the mirror back, sweetheart, and I will show you exactly how much I like it.” As he wheeled the mirror back into position, he commanded her not to move.

Buffy did as she was told and watched her lover as she stalked back to her. As he moved the table with the shaving things further back into the room, his eyes never left hers. When he was sure all obstacles were removed from the vicinity of the bed, he once again dropped to his knees to worship his goddess. This had to be the most beautiful pussy he had ever seen in his life.

Slowly her drew his fingers down her slit. He used light gentle strokes, almost as though he was afraid to touch her. Fascinated by the sight before him, was watched her dew pour from her hole. He deliberately moved it slowly around making sure he only brushed her clit now and then. If she came too soon she might run from the room, he had to make this last.

Remembering how much she had liked his finger in her ‘naughty place’, he gently spread her juice around it. Looking up into her face, he recognised the need in her eyes. “Do you want me to touch you’re here again, Buffy, like we did today? Did you like it, my sweet?”

“Oh God, yes Spike.” Her head was rolling from side to side on the pillow. “Please do what you did today. I need it.”

As he lowered his head to taste her, he whispered against her clit. “I know, sweets, your Spike will give you all you ever need.”

William concentrated on her small puckered hole. He alternated probing with his tongue and inserting his fingers to open her. She was mewling on the bed, thrashing from side to side and he could not last any longer. Dipping his hand into her quivering pussy, he coated his fingers with her juice and slathered his cock. If she wanted to stay a virgin then so be it, but if he did not stick his cock somewhere soon it would drop off. He now had three fingers inside her and he started to use a scissor action to open her wider.

He kept up the action of his fingers in her arse as he lent over her to kiss her fiercely. Lifting his head, he stared down into her eyes. Passion poured from him in waves and she knew she could not hold out to him much longer.

“I have to fuck you Buffy. We have gone to far for me to stop.” William whispered against her trembling lips. “I promise you will stay a virgin, but right now I want to push my dick into your sweet little bum.” As he spoke the words he increased the pressure by thumbing her clit.

“Let me in, luv. I will make it wonderful for you I promise.”

At his words she was lost. Nodding her head emphatically she whimpered her need.

William needed no further encouragement. He gently withdrew his fingers and before her hole could close he moved his dick against her. With great care he pushed into her quivering arse.

What hit him first was the heat. It was like sticking his dick into an inferno. Next to hit him was her tightness. He had never been in a virgin arse before and his eyes were starting to roll back in his head with sensation. He moved slowly in and out of her going slightly deeper with each stroke.

She had never felt anything like this in her life. For all the times they had played with each other, it meant nothing to what she was feeling now. He was moving so slowly inside her and she realised that he was taking his time to stop from hurting her. When she could stand it no longer she waited for his inward stroke and thrust herself with all her strength against him till she could feel his balls slap her cheeks. She bowed off the bed with bliss and she held on to the counterpane with both hands as if her life depended on it.

William could not believe what she had done. He was balls deep in her arse and he was having the hardest time imaginable holding himself steady to stop from coming too soon. His goddess was absolutely loving this he could tell, and he kept still while she set the pace.

Buffy started to buck her hips against him. Back and forth, back and forth she moved until he caught her rhythm. William moved his hands to her pussy and stuck two fingers into her cunt with one hand, and with the other hand rubbed furiously at her clit.

Scared she would wake the household with her screams, he quickly moved the towel from under her and placed it near her mouth. She understood exactly what he was doing and lifted the towel to her mouth and bit down.

Watching her face as she came was enough to bring on his own orgasm. He spurted everything he had inside her relishing in the spasms of her tight little arse around his cock as she came. He was in heaven.

He slowly withdrew his softening dick from her hole and sat back on his knees to watch his cum flow from her arse. He had to taste it. He lowered his head and cleaned her slowly with his tongue as he petted her mound and clit. Buffy continued to buck beneath him as she licked her, but he could not stop. The taste of the two of them together was ambrosia to him.

Eventually he moved back from her and laughed softly as her legs collapsed to the floor. He rose and walked to the washbowl to clean himself thoroughly. With any luck she may still suck him off before the night was through and he wanted to be clean for her. As he looked at his angel lying spent on the bed, he knew he would spend his life making this woman happy.

Slowly he lifted her into his arms and placed her up on the pillows at the head of the bed. He removed the towel and pillow and threw them on the floor. Buffy could use him as her pillow tonight. He moved the quilt from under her body and placed it gently around her snoozing form. As he moved around the room extinguishing the candles and lamps he looked back at his goddess and smiled.

Everything would be alright between them now. She would soon trust him again and he could almost not wait for the wedding night. He slipped in beside her and was soon fast asleep.




One mile away in the Angelus town house, a very angry woman was pacing the floor and pulling at her hair. Her note had been returned from William’s home unopened with the message that she must not write again.

He was a very bad dog, and bad dogs deserved to be punished. Maybe she should take away his toy. That would teach him to obey.

Chapter 37 – Wake up sleepyhead.

AN* OK peoples, you’ve had 2 chapter of pure filth to keep the lascivious amongst you happy. And I am sorry for the plot bunnies amongst you but I found I could not leave it there, so this is the morning after.

If anyone out there thinks that we are near the end because Buffy gave in a little bit, think again. We still have a few weeks before the wedding to get through yet, and lots of things can change in that time.


You have been warned…………….




William woke feeling warm and sated. Memories of the night before passed through his mind in all its splendour. His arms tightened around the goddess lying next to him, and he knew he would have to wake her soon. She needed to return to her own room before the servants were up and about and caught her with him. He really did not care what the servants thought, but he knew Buffy would be mortified.

The question was how did he wake her? Did he wake her with a kiss or with something else? Looking down at the beautiful woman curled around his hardening body, the decision was easy. He would definitely wake her with something else.

Buffy was curled next to him like a kitten seeking warmth. She had moulded her body along the length of his and William was glad that they fit together so well. He started to slowly entangle himself from her embrace and smiled as she whimpered in her sleep. Obligingly she moved to lie on her back, arms outstretched. Her long golden hair fanned across his pillow and he could not stop himself from slowly running his hands through it.

William slid soundlessly from the bed and moved around the room lighting candles and building up the fire. He wanted to see his beauty’s face as he pleasured her. While he waited for the fire to crackle back into life, he watched her sleep. Last night had been a revelation. Not only had he fallen even more in love with her, she had let him in. She was his.

Judging the room to be warm enough by now, William slid back beneath the covers. Her warmth drew him like a moth to a flame and he wanted to keep her in bed with him forever. His heart sang with joy that this wonderful woman would soon sleep with him every night and be beside him every day. What a wonderful life they would have together. If she wanted to live at Annandale, then so be it. He would live where ever she wanted and worship her forever.

Moving slowly down the bed until he was level with the breasts, he lifted his hand and caressed her softly. Her nipples budded under his soft ministrations and he lifted his head to take one in his mouth to suck softly. Buffy moaned in her sleep and arched her back towards his mouth. Looking up at her face in the candlelight, William realised she was still asleep and he hoped she was dreaming of him. He moved lower on the bed taking the covers with him, un-wrapping his treasure. Placing soft kisses over her abdomen, he paused to lick around her navel. She had a beautiful navel, small and indented and just big enough to take the point of his tongue.

He could smell her essence as he moved closer to his goal. She may still be asleep but her body knew what it wanted. Lifting his head from her soft skin he looked up at his salvation. She was opening her eyes slowly against the light and she gave a delicious little wiggle against him. She smiled down at William and said nothing as she slowly opened her legs.

Shiny and bare her pussy opened to him. He ran his fingertips softly over her bare mound before running a single finger down her slit. She was hot, swollen and ready for him and he could not resist the lure of her. Moving further down the bed he ran his tongue in teasing circles over the crease where her legs joined her body. Buffy started to writhe in earnest now as he kept his mouth away from where she needed it.

William continued to tease her by dropping small nips and kisses over her hips. He wanted her to plead for him to pleasure her and knew exactly how to keep up the pressure. As he kissed down the inside of her leg, he looked at her open bare pussy inches from his mouth. He could see her clit swell and pulse with need and he decided to up the ante by giving it a little tap.

Buffy jerked off the bed. Enough was enough, she thought. She needed his mouth on her now. With a strength she barely knew she possessed she sat up and grabbed his hair.

“No more teasing Spike” she growled at him as she pushed his face against her sopping pussy. “Just eat it.”

William lifted his head and place his chin on her bare mound. He curled his tongue behind his teeth as he smiled his reply. “Your wish is my command, my goddess.” Lowering his head once more he went to work.

Although she had nothing to compare him to, she was sure that he was an expert at this. The sensations he could bring out in her with just his tongue and fingers were beyond exquisite. She lay back on the pillows and allowed her body to take over. After a few moments of a thorough tongue lashing he lifted his head.

“Want to try something new, pet?” he grinned at her.

She was in such an aroused state by now, she would almost agree to anything he asked. However some common sense prevailed as she replied breathily. “Yes, Spike. But I still want to stay a virgin.”

William smiled as he laid himself beside her on the bed. “Oh you will, sweets.”

Lifting her easily from her prone position, he moved her pussy over his mouth. “Turn around, sweetheart, and sit on my face. I want you to bend over and take my cock in your mouth while I swallow all your lovely juice.”

Buffy let him position her as he wanted. Sucking him she could deal with. He had such a wonderful taste and her mouth watered at the tasty treat in store for her. Bending her whole body forward, she took him in her mouth.

As he bucked up into her hot little mouth, William pushed his whole face against her crack and devoured her. He could not believe his luck, he was eating out the tastiest pussy he had ever had in his life while the best cock sucker in the world was devouring his full length down her throat. Using his fingers to spread her pussy lips wider he lapped at her soft then hard. He knew her ‘naughty place’ would feel a little tender this morning, but he could not stop himself from giving it a few loving licks. She had let him fuck her blind there and it was only fair that he worship it.

Buffy was moaning in earnest around his dick. Her little mewls and hums were going straight to his balls. He was going to come soon and he wanted her with him. Moving his head back from his treat, he whispered to his goddess. “Play with my balls, luv.” When he felt her gently cup them in her hand as she continued to bob up and down on him, he knew he was ready to shoot. He tongued her puckered hole in earnest as he rubbed furiously at her clit. When he pushed his long thumb inside her hole, she exploded on his tongue. Her orgasm triggered his, and he could feel her swallow every mouthful.

They both fell to their sides on the bed and rolled on to their backs. The two lovers lifted their heads at the same time and smiled at one another. As one they petted each other. Buffy’s little hand curled around his softening dick, as he gently stroked her pussy. William could not hold back his feelings any longer. As he stared at his hand gently stroking her, he declared with feeling.

“I love you, Buffy.”

Her whole body stiffened and she removed her hand from between his legs. She sat up and stared at him. He was still stroking her and staring at his hand.

“I beg your pardon?”

William smiled at her and lifted her leg to lie across his chest opening her wider to him.

“Did you not hear me, luv?” He gently moved his fingers lightly up and down her leg. Bringing her foot to his mouth he continued his light stroking up the inside of her leg as kissed and sucked on her toes. “I said, I love you Buffy”

Buffy fell back on the bed as he licked in between her toes and continued his light stroking. Half her foot was in his mouth now and his eyes were closed in ecstasy. Buffy lifted her head and looked at the man worshipping her foot as if it tasted of the finest wine. She started to giggle as she moved his tongue quickly against the sole of her foot.

She tasted wonderful everywhere. He could not believe that he had this wonderful creature in his bed. He started to get anxious when she would not answer him.

“I love you, sweetheart, with all my heart.”

Covering her eyes with an arm Buffy gave herself over to sensation. This man could make her do and say things as if against her will. She was so close to telling me that she loved him too, but held back her response. Afraid that if she admitted that she loved him he would take advantage of her she decided to hedge her bets.

“You are in my heart, Spike, but I’m not sure if what I feel is love.”

William slowly placed her foot back against his chest. Her response disappointed him but it was enough for now. He had the rest of their lives to convince her he loved her and if it took telling her every day then he would.

“Come here, pet” William smiled down at her. “Let me give you a cuddle before we get you back to your room.”

Buffy scrambled into his arms. She felt safe with him but did not trust his heart. Two days ago he told her that he would continue to see his mistress after they were wed.

“Spike?” she looked up at him from her position on his chest.

“Yes luv?”

“Are you still going to see Drusilla after we wed?”

Emphatically, William shook his head. “No, Buffy, I have no intention of seeing her again.” He held her tighter and lifted her mouth to his. He whispered against her mouth between soft open mouthed kisses, “I cannot go near her now, Buffy. Not when I have been with you.” William stopped kissing her and held her close to him once more. “Last night was best night of my life, sweetheart. You gave me everything I have ever needed.” He lifted her over him and draped her body over his. “I promise you my life, Buffy. I will give you the sun, the moon and the stars if you let me. No other woman will ever come between us.” Tucking her head under his chin, he continued. “My father once told me that when he first saw my mother across the dance floor in Almacks he knew that he had fallen in love, once and forever.” He held her even closer as he spoke softly in her ear. “I know we did not start this courtship in quite the same way, yet I thank the Lord every day that your father wanted this match. You are my sunshine, Buffy. I need you to take back to the light from the darkness I have lived in for too long.”

Lifting her face to his with a gentle finger, he smiled up into her beautiful emerald green eyes.

“I’m drowning in you, Buffy.” Kissing her with passion, he rolled her beneath him. “Give me a crumb, sweetheart. Tell me that one day there might be a chance of you loving me the way I love you.”

Buffy could see the sincerity in his eyes. This man really did love her of that she had no doubt, but she would still divorce him when the time came. He may love her now, but he had been willing to sell himself for her money and that was something she was not sure she could forgive.

Honesty was the best policy at this moment.

“I have some deep feelings for you, Spike, but I am not sure love is one of them. I enjoy us being together and I feel I can talk to you about almost anything. Can we not just carry on as we are and see where it takes us?”

William tried to keep the disappointment from his voice. “If that’s what you want, sweets, then I am happy with that.” Kissing her soundly once more, he revelled in her response. She was writhing against him, but he had to stop. She needed to get back to her room and if she stayed in his bed ten more seconds he would never let her leave.

Moving his hands to her sides he started to tickle her in earnest. As she giggled and laughed he was struck again by her beauty.

“We need to get you back to your room, pet, before the servants are up and about.”

Holding him tightly, she mumbled into his chest.

“I don’t want to go, Spike, I like it right here.”

William laughed and disentangled himself from her embrace. “Come on lazy bones. Let’s get you back before I fuck you into the mattress.”

Smiling coquettishly at him, she stretched on the bed and winced. Immediately William lay beside her and pulled her into his arms. “Are you in pain, my love? I’m sorry I hurt you, Buffy, but I could not help myself.” He started nibbling on her neck and whispering into her skin. “You were so wonderful, you know. Hot, wet, tight and mine.”

Buffy held his head closer to her neck and closed her eyes. She did love this man with her whole being, but was determined she would not let him hurt her.

“I am just a little uncomfortable, Spike. You did nothing I did not want you to do, you know, you have nothing to feel guilty about.”

Once again he draped her body over his, this time lifting her higher as he nibbled on her breasts. “I am rude, bad man. Teach me to be good.”

Buffy’s hands gripped the headboard as he made his way from one breast to another. He was right, she had to return to her room now but it would be hard to give up the wonderful sensations his mouth created.

“Spike!” she panted. “Spike!” He stopped his ministrations and grinned up at her above him.

“I need to get back to my room, now. So stop that you evil man and help me.”

Still grinning, William helped her from the bed and covered her with her nightrail and dressing gown. When they were both decently attired he wrapped his arms loosely around her body.

“You wanted to talk to me last night, sweetheart. Do you want to go for a walk in the gardens later and we can talk all you want.”

Smiling up at him, Buffy nodded her head. “I want to talk to you about my mother, Spike. Are you willing to do that with me?”

“You don’t have to ask, my goddess. I will meet you after breakfast and we will talk all you want.” He kissed her one more time on the lips. “Now let’s get you back before your abigail comes looking for you.”

Buffy started to giggle in his arms. “I will need to take my bath alone today, Spike. I can’t have Willow gossiping in the servant’s hall about her mistress’s shaven pussy.”

He laughed down at her. “I love it when you use dirty words, pet. I will need to teach you some more.” Rubbing his erection against her stomach, he watched her eyes widen in surprise. “The word ‘pussy’ on you lips is enough for this to happen, sweetheart.” He continued to rub himself against her. “Can you imagine what will happen when you say other words I teach you?”

Pushing herself closer to him, she tipped her head to one side and smiled. “What things William. Do you want me to say cock, or dick, or balls, or cunt?” The last word was said against his mouth and he crushed her to him for a kiss.

Pulling away he smiled at her. “Might need to punish you for talk like that, missy.” He swatted her gently across her luscious bum.

“You will need to spank harder than that, Spike, if you want to punish me.”

William stared at her with lust in his eyes.

“That so, Buffy. We will need to try that sometime.”

Slapping him lightly on the chest to break his hold, Buffy smiled at him. “Come on your rude, bad man. Get me back to my room before my reputation is almost as bad as yours.”

William took her hand in his and led her from his room.

They crept like two thieves along the corridors of Craven House. Too soon they found themselves in front of her bedroom door. Before either of them knew what was happening they were in each others arms kissing passionately. While still holding her close to him with one arm, William turned the doorknob to her chamber. When the door opened he gently pushed her away from him into the room.

“Get in there, witch, before I get my clothes and take you to Gretna now.”

Buffy smiled at him as she closed her door.

He could not wait till breakfast when he could see her again.

Chapter 38 – Telling all


AN* It’s going to be hard to follow up on the last three chapters as they even got me hot, and I was writing them.

Once again I thank everyone for their reviews. I wish there was a way I could do an author response, but unfortunately I can’t. Please feel free to e-mail me if you want to speak to me. I check my hotmail most days so will respond as quickly as I can.


Remember – reviews make my fingers work faster.


Plot bunnies – this one is for you.






The Duke of Annandale arrived in time for breakfast with the Craven family. The Duke of Craven was conspicuous by his absence from the table and the house. Annandale knew exactly where the old roué would be and promised himself that he would talk to him about his actions soon. He was disgusted at Henry’s behaviour and worked hard to keep the disgust from his face.

The journey from his home to Craven House had been taken up by in internal debate. He had returned that insane whore’s missive unopened and he wondered if he should tell William she had written. He was sure that his son was in love with the beautiful Elizabeth and he did not want that witch’s interference at this stage in the betrothal.

Annandale had never understood the hold Drusilla Angelus had on his son, but he did realise that it went deep. Many times he had tried to persuade his son to stop the liaison, but to no avail. The only good thing was that she was still married to Liam Angelus and this had stopped her becoming the future Duchess. He thanked God for small mercies.

Giles had escorted Annandale to the breakfast parlour on his arrival, assuring him that he would be welcome to enjoy his repast with the family. On entering the parlour he was surprised to see his son partake heartily of the offerings on the sideboard. William stood as his father entered the room and strode confidently towards him. Shaking his hand and pulling his father towards him for a hug, William smiled with affection at the old man.

“I am so glad you decided to visit, father.”

Annandale, taken aback at his son’s actions, nodded his response. “You seem in good spirits, son. Is her Grace feeling better?”

A small frisson of guilt swept down William’s spine. His buoyant mood had nothing to do with Lady Joyce, but with her beautiful daughter and their night together. His body still tingled at the thought.

“I believe she felt well enough to join us for dinner last evening. However Buffy and Dawn thought she would feel better abed and ate with her in her chamber.”

The Duke looked askance at his son as Giles led him to the top of the table to sit. Refusing coffee or tea, he politely asked if both he and William could be left alone for a few minutes. Nodding to the Duke, Giles left the room.

“If you have anything to say, father, you will have to be quick. I expect Buffy to join me soon, and goodness knows where Clem and the whelp are. Young Dawn is probably with her mother and Craven, I believe, has some business in Chelsea.” William’s lips curled in disgust as he imparted his last statement.

Nodding his agreement as his son’s disgust, Annandale replied. “Yes, William. The old soak will be lying between his whore’s thighs as we sit here.” He looked down at his plate before he continued. “How can he do that to the duchess? A more gracious woman I have yet to meet. She must have the patience of a saint to put up with the old goat.”

William laughed at his father’s statement. He had to agree, her Grace had always treated him well and she was still a beautiful woman. Wondering if his father had developed a tendre for the Duchess, he felt it wise not to comment. Knowing the high moral standards his father lived by meant that whatever the old man felt for Lady Joyce would stay in his heart.

Looking at his father with a new eye, William wondered where his father found his release. His mother had been dead for fifteen years; surely the old man did not live like a monk. He must remember to ask him sometime.

Annandale heart warmed at how happy his son appeared to be. This had to be the influence of Elizabeth, and he was glad he had gone into this unholy alliance with Henry. Elizabeth would save his son.

“Why did Craven demand your presence, my boy?”

William gently laid his cutlery on the plate before imparting all that had happened the evening before. He explained to his father that skilled workers were on their way to Annandale as they spoke to start work on the house. Laughingly he told his father how the Duke was determined that a few of those new fangled water closets were to be installed for his family. No outside privies for the Cravens.

Smiling at his son, Annandale agreed. “Would certainly be an improvement, Will. Prefer to use a chamber pot myself and let the maids get rid of it.”

“I agree, father. It will be no hardship to have them installed I’m sure.” William sat back in his chair. “No running down to a stinking hole by the woodpile in the snow.”

Father and son were still laughing together when Clem entered the room. Startled at the sight of Annandale sitting at the head of the table, he stopped in his tracks and stared. He wondered, for a moment, if he was in the right house.

“Stop looking like a fish on a hook, Clem, and sit down.” Annandale commented.

Clem closed his mouth and made for the sideboard to choose his breakfast fare. Satisfied that his plate was full, he turned back to the dining table and sat. As he lifted a piece of ham to his mouth, Annandale addressed him.

“I may not have told you this before Telford, but I am glad that you are my son’s friend.”

Red faced, Clem stammered his reply. The Duke had never spoken to him with affection before.

“Why, thank you sir.”

Silence fell over the table as the three men ate with a hearty appetite. Clem looked over at his friend and wondered at the look of peace on his face. He had heard some strange sounds coming from his friend’s room during the night and was determined he would be asking William who was ‘Spike’. The only thing that stopped him entering his friend’s bed chamber and demand an explanation for his behaviour was the fact that he was certain it had been Buffy’s voice calling out “Spike”.

He needed to visit Faith today. He had been too long without the comfort she could bring. If William could have his time with a woman in the middle of his mess of a life, why should be do without.

Lady Dawn ran into the room with all the exuberance of a young girl in her fourteenth year. She smiled at all the men in the room before heading to the sideboard for breakfast. Sitting down she lifted the teapot on the table and poured some into her cup. Adding a spot of milk and three spoons of sugar she lifted the cup to her lips as she smiled again at her audience.

“Good Morning, gentlemen. Are you having a pleasant breakfast?”

William could not help but smile at her and nod. She was a miniature Buffy and this was enough to endear him to her. Coupled with her easy manners and beautiful smile, she would soon have the ton turning their heads. Glad that she would be joining them in Annandale, she would be good company for both Buffy and their mother. Annandale had been a happy place when his mother was alive. He hoped the arrival of his new family would bring it joy once more.

As the door opened to admit Buffy, William rose to his feet in an instant. The smile he bestowed on the beautiful woman before him was not lost on either his father or his friend. Lady Dawn rolled her eyes at the pair and carried on with her breakfast.

“Good morning, sweetheart.” William addressed his love.

“Good morning to you, Sp…William” she smiled shyly at her slip.

Clem picked up on it immediately. So it had been Buffy in William’s room last night. He must remember to ask William why she called him ‘Spike’.

As Buffy sat next to William, Annandale spoke.

“How is your dear mother this morning, Elizabeth?”

Buffy smiled warmly at the duke. She knew he, too, had been instrumental in the arrangement of this marriage and for his part in this affair she was sure she would never forgive him; yet he appeared to show more concern for her mother than her own husband. For that, she was grateful.

“I am late down this morning, your grace, as I have just come from her chamber. She is looking much better this morning. Her colour is a little high, but she has eaten some toast and strawberry preserve and drank two cups of coffee. I am most happy this morning.” Smiling wickedly at the duke, she continued. “I am almost part of the Annandale family, your grace; I insist you call me Buffy.”

Annandale truly liked this young woman. She had the look of her mother about her without the harshness of the Craven blood. She would suit William well.

Buffy, for her part, noticed the look of relief that passed over Annandale’s face and sought to reassure him further.

“My brother is sitting with her at the moment, sir, and is determined to keep her company until my father returns from business.”

He will have a long wait, thought Annandale, but wisely did not comment. He continued with breakfast and settled himself to watch the small telling glances which passed between his son and Buffy. He felt much ease at his decision to send the whore’s correspondence back to her. She would soon find a new plaything. Let her leave his son alone.





Impatient for breakfast to end, William sat back in his chair and watched his love eat. He wanted to spend time with Buffy alone and hoped Clem would entertain his father while he walked with his love. He hoped her conversation would not be too painful for her. It was obvious she wanted to discuss her mother’s health and her concerns. It would behove him to be there for her and to show his support and love. This was not a task he relished as he knew the pain of grief all too well.

William’s mother, Anne, had been the centre of his and his father’s world. She was so full of joy and life and the wasting disease which took her from them turned her into a shadow of herself. She died in a haze of laudanum to help take away the pain. Both he and his father had been devastated at the loss. For a young man away at Eton as he was, it had been a double blow. His mother had died at Annandale and by the time he could return home, she had been buried in the family vaults.

The biggest regret of his life had been not saying goodbye to his mother and William was determined that Buffy would never go through the same experience. He believed in his heart that something was seriously wrong with the duchess. It was the only explanation he could think of for the Duke’s sudden and inexplicable need to attend his wife’s every comfort. The duke was a total bastard and only thought of his own wants and needs. There had to be more than just a headache wrong with the duchess. William was sure his clever fiancé had worked this out, and wished to talk to him about it. His heart swelled at the trust she had in him.

Finally Buffy rose from the table and the gentlemen rose in her stead. Dropping a small curtsey, she turned to leave the room. William followed in her stead and taking hold of her hand as she approached the door he pulled it through his arm. Turning back to his father and Clem, he smiled as wished them well and asked Clem to inform his father of Craven’s plans.

Buffy led William through the conservatory to the garden. William drew her hand from his arm and enclosed it within his own. He wanted to touch her skin with his skin. Lifting their joined hands to his mouth he kissed her knuckles. Buffy smiled up at him and she took a quick look around to ensure they were alone before rising on the toes and kissing him. Dropping her hand immediately, William lifted both hands to her face and devoured her with his lips and tongue.

Heaven, he thought, I have died and gone to heaven. This woman was quickly becoming his world. Wondering how he had ever survived his life without her, he moved his hands to her hips and moved her closer to him.

She just could not help herself. This man had to be the best kisser in the world. His tongue was wickedly exploring her mouth as he wriggled her hips against his erection. Wondering if the man walked around in a permanent state of arousal, she pulled back from his mouth. His arms kept her close to him. It felt as though the only part of them not in contact was their mouths.

William closed his eyes and threw his head back as Buffy managed to wriggle just that little bit closer. She could bear it no more, she had to ask.

“Are you hard ALL the time, Spike?”

He did that thing with his tongue that she liked so much, and another part of the walls around her heart melted away.

“Only when I am near you, kitten.” Bending his head he kissed her passionately before continuing. “Or when I think of you.” He kissed her neck. “Or when I smell your scent.” He kissed her ear. “Or when I dream of shaving your gorgeous pussy.”

Buffy giggled in his arms, he really was insufferable. “Well you will have to ignore it for now, Spike. I really want to talk to you.”

William dropped his forehead to hers. “I know, sweetheart. Let’s find a nice seat somewhere and have a chat.” He loosened his hold on her back, and stepped away from her. Lifting his hand for her to take, he nodded his head indicating they find somewhere to sit.

Beneath the shadow of an oak tree, Buffy and William sat close together on a bench. Taking her hand in his and gently running his fingers over palm and wrist, he waited for her to start.

She sat for some time and said nothing. This was going to be hard, but she had no one else to talk to. She may not trust his fidelity, but she was sure that in his own way he did have deep feelings for her. With this in mind she began.

“I believe my mother is going to die soon, William.” When he started to protest she placed her free hand over his mouth. “Please say nothing until I am finished.” She kept her hands in place over his mouth until he nodded his acceptance. “Thank you, William.”

“She has been getting worse over the last few weeks. Last week we were all in the drawing room playing charades when she looked as though she had frozen. Not a part of her moved and her eyes were staring at nothing.” William held her hand tighter, he had not realised just how bad it was. He waited for her to continue.

Buffy was staring at the grass between her feet as she told her tale. “She suddenly blinked and it was as if she came back to life. The thing was that once she came back to us it took her a few moments to recognise who we were. That was very hard for Dawnie to take. She started to cry and cling to mother like a new born babe.”

Lifting her eyes from the grass, she stared at the shrubs growing beside the path. “The episodes have increased greatly, William. I don’t want her to die here alone and unloved. She has to come with us to Annandale.”

William gently let go of her hand and pulled her into his embrace.

“All the arrangements are in motion, kitten.” William spoke into her hair. “Clem and your brother have planned the route to Annandale with great care. Your father has handed over money to Xander and Clem to procure the best rooms in the best Inns on the route.” He held her closer and kissed her hair.

He smoothed his hand through her hair as much for his comfort as hers before continuing. “Your father has sent craftsmen from Craven Hall to make sure that any repairs to Annandale are made in time for our arrival.” He lifted her face to his and wiggled his eyebrows at her. “You father is determined that we have a few of those fancy indoor water closets you have here. I believe he said that no one from the House of Craven would use an outdoor privy.”

Buffy laughed at William’s wicked impersonation of her father in an imperious mood. She laughed even more when he continued.

“If I am honest, sweetheart, I was looking forward to following you to the privy in the middle of night and ravishing you by the woodpile.” A woe-begotten expression on his face, he turned to her and with a resigned sigh informed her politely. “Just have to fuck you in the bath then, pet.”

His work was done when he saw Buffy laughing so hard, she was gripping his arm to keep from falling from the bench. He could not tell her how much her revelations had saddened him. Part of him hoped they could bring this wedding forward and yet another part of knew that the more time the craftsmen were on the estate before their arrival the better.

Everything must be perfect for his wife and her family.

Chapter 39 – Loving Faith

AN* For Clem, because he is such a sweetheart and I enjoy him being a good guy.

Parts of this chapter were difficult for me to write as I am sure you will agree as you read on. However it is fundamental to the story to write about all aspects of the type of society Buffy and Spike currently inhabit in this story. Please bear with me and flame me if you want to for this chapter, but I just had to write it.






By the time William and Buffy returned from their walk, Clem had brought Annandale up to date with Craven’s plans. Xander had joined the men in the library when Dawn had relieved him at their mother’s side.

To say he was in shock at the amount Craven was willing to spend to ensure his wife’s comfort was an understatement. He was spending a veritable King’s Ransom just to ensure his wife died in comfort. There was no mistaking his motives now; Lady Joyce must be dying to bring about this attention from her spouse.

There was a part of Annandale’s heart that cried for his part in almost forcing William into this family. The rest of his heart felt good at the obvious love his son had developed for Buffy. They looked happy together and if he knew his son, William had already made love to Buffy.

Smiling at the couple as they entered the room hand in hand he stood up from his chair.

“I must be on my way William. I trust you have made plans for today?”

William looked at Clem for a moment, and turned his attention back to his father.

“Clem, Xander and I are heading to Tattersalls to look at some carriage horses for the move.” Noticing his father’s interest peak at the thought of picking good horseflesh, he invited him to join them.

Annandale paused for a moment and decided that he would indeed join the trio. It would be a good way to keep his eye on his son and make sure that only the best horseflesh carried his son’s salvation home.

“Indeed, William. I would be most pleased to join you.” Turning to the young Lord Summers, Annandale felt it his duty to give the boy his place. He may be young, but he was still the son of a Duke. “If you do not mind me tagging along, Xander. I happen to be quite a good judge of decent horseflesh.”

Xander smiled at the Duke and nodded his acceptance of help. His own knowledge of horseflesh was limited to hunters and he was willing to accept all the help he could. If the purchases proved acceptable it may go some way in proving that he was not as inept as his father constantly accused him of being.

Buffy smiled at the assembly. “Gentlemen, if you would excuse me I will leave you to your business. I still have to be fitted for my wedding gown and my modiste awaits my presence.” Glancing at the clock on the mantel, Buffy realised she was already late. “I am afraid I have to rush.” Turning to William, she lifted her hand to his face and stroked him gently. He pushed against her hand and smiled down at her. “Will you return for dinner tonight, William?”

Lifting her hand from her face, he enclosed it in both his own. “Try and stop me, kitten. I will return at eight tonight.”

Her smile lit the room before she departed. William was sure his heart stopped. This wonderful creature wanted him as much as he wanted her. He had never been so happy. He was still staring at the door when Clem addressed him.

“As your father will be going to Tattersalls with you and Xander, would you mind if I sloped off for a bit?”

William turned his head to look at his friend and nodded. “Of course, Clem. I sure you need to make a few calls of your own.” He lifted his eyebrow to his friend and gave him a comradely grin.

“Indeed, Will” he smiled back. “I will not be joining you for dinner this evening but will call on you at your father’s house on the morrow.”

With that promise said, Clem left Craven House.




Within the hour, Clem was lying in Faith’s arms. Sometimes he wished she was not the whore society made her out to be. She was the eldest daughter of the Earl of Avonbridge and had been cast out by her family when only sixteen. Her only crime had been to allow Lord Trenton to make love to her. The man had seduced her in her father’s home and when caught refused to marry her. He managed to convince her almost senile father that she had not been a virgin when he took her to his bed. This had been enough for her to end up on the streets.

Trenton had left Avonbridge with Faith in tow and used her as his whore for two years. He had beaten her, abused her and passed her around his friends while he watched. Clem had been at one of Trenton’s ‘parties’ one of the times he passed her round. At first Clem had thought she was a typical Haymarket whore until Trenton had bragged to the assembled men in the room how he had seduced her and trained her.

Their laughter still haunted him in the middle of the night.

Clem’s heart had bled for the girl on her knees sucking off each man in turn while others fucked her from behind, not caring which hole they used. At one point two of the men in the room dragged her to the middle of the floor and while one fucked her in the cunt the other fucked her in her arse. Her screams shattered his wits even now. He could still hear the slap of Trenton’s hand across her face and how quickly her screams had stopped.

It was at that point he knew he would buy her from Trenton. She had cost him five thousand pounds and his latest bay hunter, but he could not live with himself had he left her there. He had moved her into a small terraced house in Kensington and visited her often. It had taken him a year to get her to trust him enough to let him share her bed. If she had never allowed anyone near her again, he would not have been surprised.

He had not saved her from Trenton to be his mistress; he had saved her from Trenton to redeem his soul.

Until the night he found her he had been no better than Trenton. Not caring whom he ruined as long as he got a fuck out of it. He had taken at least five maiden’s virginities in his younger days and he, like Trenton, had bragged about his conquests. In the stupidest arrogance of youth he had truly believed that his behaviour was a rite of passage for someone with his breeding.

That was until he saw what his behaviour led the women to become.

From the day he set Faith free of Trenton he had been with no other woman. He loved her deeply and would like nothing more that to ask her to be his wife.

Trenton had realised that Clem had deep feelings for his ex-whore and made sure the whole ton knew of Faith’s past exploits in his home. The man had bragged to all who would listen of how he had beaten her senseless until she could suck a man into heaven. He told stories of the amount of men she could take in one night and exaggerated how much she enjoyed it.

The thought of what the man had done to her still turned his stomach.

There were nights the memories came back to her in sleep. Clem had spent many nights just holding her as she cried. Sometimes she cried for the loss of her family, and other times for the loss of her innocence to such a debauched and evil bastard.

Clem knew that Faith had been permanently damaged by Trenton’s behaviour. Sometimes her anger knew no bounds and she hit out at anyone in her path. He had taught her to fight her demons by showing her how to fight like a man. Often they sparred in the ballroom until she was spent and free of her ghosts.

It was his duty to protect her. He loved her.

Trenton had been dealt with years ago by a bullet through the head. He had been found on the doorstep of an address in Haymarket that no decent person should know. The runners had never found the culprit, but Clem suspected that he held the murderer against his heart most nights. He had never asked her if she had killed him, he truly did not care. The bastard had deserved to die, and if his love had been the murderer, then so be it.

His conscience pricked at him when he spoke of Faith to his friends. He was determined that she never be vulnerable to any of them again and often told stories of how much she cost him. It was usually enough to keep the hounds at bay, but it was a necessary evil. If he told the truth of how much she could love a man, they would be at her door in droves. He was not sure he could live if she left him for someone else.

She was his life.

Cuddling closer to his love, Clem was in heaven. He had not visited her in a week due to his dealings with Will’s love life. Well, he could deal with them on his own now. Love of a good woman was worth more than any friendship. William would understand. He knew the truth of Faith’s story and had always shown her the courtesy a Lady deserved. For that fact alone, Clem had kept their friendship going, even when William had exasperated him enough to punch him out.

Faith woke and looked at the man giving her solace. She knew he loved her, but theirs was a doomed love. Every day she had to take precautions to make sure she did not carry his bastard, and it almost killed her. The love of a child at her breast was all she wanted from life now. It would make up for the life she had been forced to lead.

“Hello my angel,” Clem whispered. “Would you like something to eat?”

Smiling back at him, Faith wriggled closer. “I know what would make a good luncheon, Clem.”

Clem let his arms drop to his sides as she moved down to his dick and mouthed it into life. She sucked him to completion within minutes and smiled at her lover’s satiated smile.

“I need a little snack too, sweetling” and with that comment Clem returned the favour. Until Faith had met Clem, no man had ever gone down on her. She had been trained to give pleasure, not receive it. He was such a generous lover and her heart melted whenever he touched her.

They lay next to each other in bed. Clem turned towards her and started to tell her the events of the past week that had kept him from her side. She sighed in relief when he had completed the tale. When he had sent her the letter saying he was busy and to pick a bauble, she was sure he had been ready to turn her off. Frightened that she would be on the streets she had contemplated swallowing a bottle of laudanum. She did not think she could survive without Clem at her side.

She had turned towards Clem during his ramblings and started to listen intently when he described how William had decided to never see Drusilla Angelus again.

Faith stiffened and stared at Clem before she asked. “Are you talking of Liam Angelus’ wife, Clem?”

“Why yes, my love. Surely I have mentioned her to you before.” Clem answered with concern in his voice.

“Of course you have, Clem, but you always called her Dru or Drusilla. Today is the first time you told me her full name.”

Clem’s concern knew no bounds as Faith started to shake in his arms. “What is it, Faith? Why are you shaking?”

Faith turned on to her back and stared at the canopy over the bed. Clem never asked her any questions about her life with Trenton, not even his death. She knew that he was convinced she had killed him, and he would be right. It was time to tell him a story. In a small voice he had never heard her use before, she told him her tale.

“Liam Angelus is the most perverted bastard I have ever met in my life. One night Trenton handed me over to both him and his wife. I never knew her name, but he made sure I knew his. Between them they used me for hours. That black bitch made me lick her while he stuck part of a wooden broom handle into me. I can still hear her call him ‘Daddy’ as she encouraged him to hurt me. He had brought a horse whip and used it on me for what seemed like hours. She laughed and laughed as I cried out in pain. When he was tired of hitting me he turned the whip on her. She screamed for more, Clem. As the blood was pouring down her back from his lash, she screamed for more.”

Clem pulled her into his arms, sickened at her tale. She turned her back to him and let him snuggle from behind. She was not ready to face him yet.

“They tied me to the bed, Clem. He almost bit my nipples off and that black hearted bitch cheered. I was bleeding everywhere. He had rammed that damn pole into me so hard I bled down there for days. His wife sat on my face until I thought I would suffocate and made me stick my tongue in her arse. Then she lay on top of me while he fucked her hard. They tried to make me play with myself while they fucked and when I told them I was too sore. Their punishment was to tie me spread-eagled face down on the bed. Angelus then whipped my pussy till it was ripped to shreds.”

Too shocked to say anything, Clem moved closer to her and tightened his arms around her.

“You don’t need to tell me any more, Faith, unless you want to.”

“Oh I think you should hear the rest, Clem.” Faith’s body started to shake at the memory of that night. “When they returned me to Trenton he started to shout at Angelus for the state I was in. It was not jealousy it was because I would out of commission till I healed. I took over a month to heal, Clem and Trenton told me that as they had not damaged my mouth I would need to make sure I used it more to pleasure him and his friends. Sometimes, when he was drunk, he forgot I was cut up and pounded into me anyway. I have never felt pain like it.”

Crying in earnest now, Clem could think of nothing to console her.

“You must warn William, Clem. If that black whore wants him she will do anything to keep him. Angelus does not care who she fucks as long as he can go back to his tart in Ireland. I know this because I heard him tell her that she was not as good a ride as Darla and she would need to learn better tricks to please him. She told him he could have Darla as long as she stayed in London to play with her puppy. With what you have told me today, Clem I now know she was talking about William.”

Suddenly she turned in the bed and faced him. She lifted her hands to his face and used all her strength to hold him as she stared hard at him. “Do whatever it takes to keep Will away from them, Clem. Trenton was a tame kitchen cat compared to that evil fucker.”

Clem was shocked beyond belief as her story. He knew she had been abused badly during her time with Trenton and he had always believed the lash marks on her back had been done by his hand. He could not help but ask.

“Faith, the marks on your back, were they the work of Angelus.”

“Oh yes, Clem. The bastard marked me good.”

Clem pulled her towards him and held her close. “I swear on my life, Faith, no one will ever hit you again.”

Faith felt his heartbeat beneath her ear and knew he meant it.

Chapter 40 - Relapse

AN* thank you all for your encouragement and support. I really thought my last chapter would get nothing but flames, but you have all been wonderful. I know I mentioned in earlier chapters that Clem would give up Faith for Buffy, but I think after Chapter 39 you realise that he really never would.

I know when Clem is included in fanfic he is depicted as having a bad skin condition. In my story no one is bringing their demon influences with them (well maybe Dru and Angel, but I hate them)

I’ll shut up now and get on with the story……




For men who enjoy good horseflesh, Tattersalls was one of the best days out. All three men had enjoyed a wonderful time spending Craven money and enough horses had been purchased for the journey. Annandale had arranged the transport of the horses to the various coaching inns chosen for the route, making sure that Xander’s name was on all the transactions. He knew this was important to the boy as he desperately sought his father’s approval at every turn.

It was late afternoon before all the business transactions were complete and William suggested they retire to Boodle’s in St James for a brandy. Both Annandale and Xander agreed that this was an excellent suggestion and the three men jumped in a hackney for the journey.

Annandale had not had an opportunity to speak to his son alone since breakfast. He could not help but notice that William had been in a buoyant mood all day, laughing with friends, teasing Xander out of a fit of the glums when a bay hunter the boy liked was sold and generally being light-hearted. Buffy’s influence must run deep, either that or his son had bedded her the night before and was still in a good mood. He would have preferred the boy had kept it in his trousers till he wedding, but if it kept him out of Drusilla’s bed, all the better.




Across town Buffy was bored and her feet and legs were sore. She was deliciously sore in other places too, and the memory of the previous night’s adventures with Spike was never far from her mind. Her man knew how to keep a woman happy, and that was what he was, her man. He had declared never to see Drusilla Angelus again, and that was enough for now. When she returned home from this infernal fitting, she would use all her powers of persuasion with her father to ensure he stayed at Craven House till near the wedding.

Dawn was restless. She had been fitted earlier in the day and was now waiting for Buffy. After sitting for more than an hour with only Willow for company, she wanted to go home. Their mother had looked much better this morning and Dawn longed to return home and sit with her. Rising from her chair she walked towards the curtained area where the modiste was fitting Buffy and poked her head through.

“Buffy,” she whined. “How much longer will you be? I want to get home to mother and have been sitting waiting for hours for you.”

Buffy smiled at her sister’s pout. “Not long now, Dawnie. If we stay just a little longer then we do not need to return for a few days.” Turning to the modiste, Buffy smiled. “Is that not correct Madame?”

“Indeed, my Lady, we will be complete soon”

Buffy turned back to the long mirror to admire her partly made gown. “Ask Willow to fetch you an ice from Gunter’s, Dawn. I am sure that will cheer you up.”

Smiling at her sister, Dawn nodded enthusiastically and popped back through the curtain to instruct Willow.

The gown Madame had designed was truly beautiful. Buffy had to be dressed in white even though the colour did not really suit her. Madame had suggested that they trim the gown in gold silk with small golden roses around the neckline. The result pleased Buffy greatly. She looked like a goddess and her veil would be made of the finest golden lace. Yes, thought Buffy, I will look beautiful for my Spike.

Within the hour Buffy and Dawn were sitting in the carriage on the homeward journey. Both girls were tired and hungry and could not wait to get home. Anxious to see their mother they pushed past Giles when he opened the door. Running up the stairs, still in their outdoor clothes, neither girl cared how hoydenish their behaviour looked.

Bursting through theirs mother’s door they both stopped dead. Lady Joyce was lying prone on the bed staring into space, her whole body was twitching. Buffy and Dawn ran to their mother’s side and pulled the coverlet from her grasp. Truly concerned, Buffy screamed for Giles. Within moments the butler arrived and taking stock of the situation immediately left the room to send for the physician.

Buffy ran after Giles demanding he send for her father. “He is not as home, my Lady.”

“Oh course he’s not at home, Giles. He’s never at home. Fetch him from his whore now before I find him for myself and scream like a fishwife at her door.”

Giles’ face was a picture. Not only had Buffy screamed down a corridor, she committed the cardinal sin of accusing her father of not being faithful. He knew exactly where the Duke could be found, but to impart that information to Lady Elizabeth would ensure he had no place on the morrow.

Nodding to his young mistress, Giles replied. “I will send for him immediately, my Lady.”

A look of relief passed over her features. “Thank you Giles.”

By the time Buffy returned to her mother’s room Lady Joyce had recovered slightly. The twitching had stopped and her eyes no longer stared into space. Her mother was however in pain. She could tell by the way her was clutching her head that the pain was severe. Dawn was almost hysterical and Buffy realised that it would upset her mother more to hear her youngest cry.

“Stop it or leave, Dawn” she hissed at her sister.

Dawn stared at Buffy in disbelief. Did her sister not realise just what they had witnessed? Their mother must be more ill than both the physician and their father led them to believe. At that moment Dawn hated her father for his deception. Suddenly she knew that her outburst of hysteria would not help her mother’s recovery and promptly hiccupped to a halt.

Buffy immediately gathered Dawn into a hug. “I’m sorry Dawn, but we need to keep the room quiet to let mother recover.”

Returning her sister’s hug with one of her own, she reassured her. “I know Buffy.” Looking around the room she asked. “Where’s papa?”

Not willing to upset her sister any more than she had to, Buffy replied. “Giles has sent for him, my love, he will be here soon.”

The sisters continued to hug each other in comfort for some time. Slowly Lady Joyce seemed to come back to them.

“Hello girls. “ Her weak voice rose to them from the bed.

Slowly they approached the bed. Buffy spoke first, “We have sent for the physician, mother. He should be with us soon.”

Nodding her head in reply appeared to spark another headache. Buffy laid her hand on her mother’s brow and asked Dawn to find some lavender water. The smell of lavender had always soothed their mother’s headaches before and she was willing to try anything.

While Dawn ran down to the still room to look for the water, Buffy helped her mother use the chamber pot. She did not care that this type of work should be done by servants. Her mother was ill and it was her duty to care for her. Her mother was back in bed by the time Dawn returned to the room carrying the water. Taking the vial from her sister, Buffy gently applied some to her mother’s temples. Lady Joyce closed her eyes at her daughter’s ministrations. Buffy continued to gently rub her mother’s temples until she detected a change in her breathing which meant she was falling asleep.

Suddenly her mother’s eyes opened.

“Is William coming to dinner tonight, Buffy?”

Surprised her mother would ask such a question, Buffy replied immediately. “Why yes, mother, he said he would be here at eight tonight.”

Lady Joyce grabbed her daughter’s arm firmly and drew her down towards her mouth. “Bring him to see me, Buffy, I wish to speak to him.”

“If you wish, mother, I will bring him as soon as he arrives.”

Her mother removed her hand from Buffy’s arm. “Ring for a bath for me, my dear. I have been lying here for over a day and I wish to bathe.”

Worriedly, Buffy asked her mother “Are you sure you will feel fine enough to bathe, mother?”

“Indeed child. I am determined not to lie in my own filth any longer. Fetch my maid and she will help me.” Noticing the worried look on her daughter’s face, her Grace smiled and continued. “I promise I will be fine, Buffy. I do not wish to speak to your fiancé smelling like a street urchin.”

“As you wish, mother.” And with that comment Buffy left the room with Dawn to arrange her mother’s toilette.

By the time Buffy returned to the drawing room the physician had arrived. Her father had not yet returned, and it was the physician who received her wrath.

Rounding on the man, she went straight into attack.

“I do not want to hear any more platitudes, sirrah, you will explain to me exactly what is wrong with my mother or I will dismiss you and employ someone who will.”

The physician did not know what to do. He was paid by the Duke, but he could see the fury on the young woman’s face. When he had handed his great coat to the butler, he had been informed that Lady Joyce’s attack was over and that she was now peaceful in her room. Craven had told him not to discuss his wife’s health with anyone but himself yet he felt almost compelled this woman in front of him the truth.

“I would like to wait for his grace, my lady.”

“Well I would not.” Buffy’s fury knew no bounds. “OUT, you charlatan. Get out of this house immediately before I take the poker to your heart. You ever cross this threshold again, I will personally evict you.”

Her temper finally broke into a million pieces. Worry over her mother and the events of the last week caught up with her. “GILES!” she screamed from the doorway.

Within moments Giles entered the room and immediately recognised the anguish on Buffy’s face.

“Get this person out of my sight, Giles. If he ever crosses the door again you are to inform me immediately and I will throw him out myself.” Turning to the physician she continued. “My mother will have a new physician from tomorrow, sir, and I will deal with my father. Now get out.”

Standing up, the physician looked red-faced at the butler. Giles slightly raised on eyebrow to indicate the man should leave. He escorted him from the room.

William bumped into the man at the bottom of the steps to Craven House as he arrived. He was early for dinner because he hoped to spend some time alone with his love. Anxiety grew in his chest when he realised who the man was. He sincerely hoped that her grace had not taken a turn for the worse. Running up the steps to Craven House, he knocked loudly on the door.

Within moments Giles let him in. “Her Grace, Giles, how is she?” With those six words Giles’ respect for the young Lord went up several notches. Answering honestly Giles informed him of her latest attack and relayed the conversation Buffy had had with the physician. “Where is she Giles?”

“Still in the drawing room, my Lord.” In a low voice the man continued. “Do not be surprised if her Ladyship is throwing the Meissen around the room.”

William gave him a frowning look and made his way to the drawing room. As he opened the door a beautiful ornament went dancing past his head. Buffy did not even pause in her rage as he greeted him. “Good evening, William” she declared as another piece of pottery hit the wall.

He leaned back against the closed door to watch his love in a strop. As piece of pottery flew round the room with deadly accuracy, he was entranced. Magnificent in her fury, she reminded him of a Valkyrie. All that power and anger, and strangely arousing. He could feel himself harden at the sight of her. Smiling he looked down at his erection though his trousers thinking that this was not the best time to tell his love that he was really in the mood to fuck her into the ground.

She was still throwing things around the room when he spoke.

“Want to talk about it, luv?”

“Not really Spike, I want to kill something.” She stopped her destruction and smiled evilly at him. “You’ll do”

Startled, William watched the angry woman stalk towards him with the grace of a cat.

“Let’s go to the ballroom, Spike.” Smiling coquettishly at him, she bade him follow.

Intrigued at her actions, William followed.

The ballroom was dark when they entered. Using his tinderbox, William went round the room lighting candles. As the room was large, he hoped that by the time he was complete, her temper would diminish. He had lit most of the top end of the room, when he heard her voice, deadly and low.

“That’s enough, Spike, Now take off your coat and loosen your cravat.”

William complied quickly. If she wanted him to strip down he was more than happy. Within seconds he was standing in his shirtsleeves facing Buffy.

She smiled sweetly at him. “Do you fence, Spike?”

“I am a Lord, Buffy. Of course I fence.”

Her smile grew wider still. “Good.” Turning her back to him she ran into a darkened corner and returned with two swords. Without warning she threw one at William. “Catch!”

Instinct took over and he raised his hand to catch the sword by the pommel.

“Are you trying to tell me you fence, Buffy?”

“Indeed, Spike.” She replied. “En Garde!”

William noticed that there were no protective buttons on the ends of the foils. He would have to extra careful. His reputation with swords was legendary within the ton. Winning duels using them helped, as did the regular matches at his fencing master’s studio in Conduit Street.

What he did not know was that Xander and Buffy sparred often. The young Lord had started to teach his sister for a lark and it had become a regular form of exercise between them. When ever Buffy had a temper tantrum she always took out a foil and practised for hours. The activity had always calmed her and she needed to calm down now.

William was not prepared when Buffy stepped forward and touched just below his shoulder with the point. “Hit” she cried. “Come on, Spike. Fight me.”

For ten minutes they parried back and forth. William was highly impressed with her skill. In fact he had fought men who had not a tenth of her talents. He was thoroughly enjoying himself, and totally turned on. It was a true test of skill to fight while in a state of full arousal. God, he thought as she managed another hit, this woman had been born to be his mate.

William managed another hit, stopping his foil between her breasts. It would take so little to pierce the skin, but he did not want to mark her. “Had enough yet, pet?” Bring his foil to his forehead in salute, he continued “Right at this moment I want to kiss you more than anything in the world.”

Buffy threw her foil to the edge of the ballroom. William’s foil followed. She threw herself into his arms jumping up and wrapping her legs around his waist. Mouths fused together they staggered back against a wall. William held her in place against the wall with his body and devoured her mouth. She ground herself against his erection and William thought he would burst at the little mewls and moans coming from her mouth. She really was the most delicious creature he had ever known.

Lifting her head to breathe, she looked down at William. The look of wonder and love on his face was hard to miss. “Touch me, Spike”

He did not need to be asked twice. Before she knew it was happening his hand was between her legs rubbing furiously at her clit. Within seconds she came in his hand. He let her slowly return to her feet and held her close.

“Blow out the candles, Spike, and take out your dick.”

He quickly blew out the candles and returned to her with his breeches flap open and his hard on naked with need. She was already down on her knees when he approached. Holding him by the root of his dick she guided him to her mouth.

Chapter 41 – Craven’s little girl

AN* definitely a plot bunny chapter.




For those amongst you waiting with baited breath for Angelus to turn up, I’m afraid its a little way off. In those days mail to Ireland could take over a week to arrive unless the packet was handed over to a willing sea captain to deliver. The journey back from Ireland would also have taken several days by sea and road. However knowing Dru’s character, do you really think she would wait for Angelus before making a move?

Oh the possibilities……..




Craven returned to his home in high dudgeon. This was the second time in two days he had been summoned from Lady Catherine’s home and it was becoming tiresome. There were more than enough family and servants at Craven house to deal with his wife. He bellowed for Giles as he entered the front door.

“I left strict instructions yesterday, Giles, that I was not to be summoned for a mere attack” he roared at his butler.

Giles was not phased in the slightest; he was fonder of the women of the household than his employer.

“Indeed sir. And I would not have sent a summons had not the Lady Elizabeth insisted.”

The duke was not in the mood to be appeased. “Should have told her you did not know my direction, man. I employ you to have common sense not act on the whims of a fractious child.”

It took years of training and fear of losing his place to stop Giles from flattening the duke with a quick right hook.

“Lady Elizabeth evicted the physician from the house, your grace.”

Giles felt great satisfaction at the look of shock on Craven’s face. It was quickly replaced by anger.

“Find her and bring her to me now, Giles”

“I believe she and Lord William are in the drawing room, your Grace. Would you care for refreshments to be served?”

Nodding his acquiescence the duke made his way to the drawing room.

William and Buffy had entered the drawing room not five minutes before the duke’s arrival. When the duke entered the room he found William sitting on one of the sofas with his daughter on his lap. His anger increased tenfold.

“Get up from there you little harlot. How dare you purport yourself in such a manner in my home.”

Buffy jumped to her feet followed immediately by William. She pushed past him to face her father when William tried to shield her from his rage.

“How dare you lecture me on behaviour” she raged at him. “Where were you when my mother was lying in her room taking a seizure?” she was too enraged to stop. “You were lying between the thighs of your whore were you not? Do you enjoy yourself so much that you forget you have a family and a sick wife?”

Craven’s hand hit her face so hard that she stumbled. William immediately grabbed the duke by the throat and pushed him against the wall.

“Touch her again, Craven, and I will kill you where you stand.” He hissed at the duke. “I do not care how you conduct yourself in society but I will protect what’s mine.”

The duke laughed in his face.

“Yours, boy? She is not yours until vows have been said in front of the Archbishop.” Craven moved in for the kill. “Good god man, you don’t even want her for a wife. You and your father only want the money she will bring your family.”

William had heard the expression ‘seeing red’ before, but did not believe it meant anything until that moment. His head felt ready to explode in anger and a red mist descended over his eyes. He pulled back his fist to strike the duke when he felt Buffy pull at his arm.

“He’s not worth it, Spike. Let him go sweetheart, for me, please” she begged him.

It took a few seconds for the red mist to clear from his eyes and he dropped his hand at her instruction and let the duke go.

Craven lifted his hands to his neck and started to rub at marks left by William’s hand.

“I should call you out for that you insufferable bastard.” Craven croaked at William. His throat was quite raw.

William smirked at the duke “It would be my pleasure, sir. Name your seconds and I will be more than happy to oblige.”

Buffy moved between the two men. “Enough, both of you.” She demanded. “My mother is lying sick in her room and all you can do is fight.” Turning to her father she gave him a cold look and spoke to him in an even colder voice. “You ever touch me again, father, I will not need William to protect me. I will run you through myself”

“I’d like to see you try girl.”

“Would you father? How interesting. Why don’t you follow me to the ballroom and we will see how well Xander has trained me to use a sword?”

Craven stared open-mouthed at his daughter. She had always been obedient to his wishes, yet here she stood threatening to kill him. William’s influence must go far.

William smiled at his love’s words. She was unlike any woman he had ever met. God how he loved her. It was then the duke’s words about their marriage penetrated his brain. What would she think when she had processed all that had been said in the room?

As if she could read his thoughts, Buffy spoke to William. “We both know my father speaks the truth as he sees it, William. However I believe that you and I have come to a better understanding, have we not?”

“Indeed, kitten” he agreed as her took her hand in his and raised it to his lips. “We understand each other very well.”

Craven watched the display with disgust. He never intended this to be a love match. This marriage had been planned to ensure his wife and daughters removal from his side. Xander would spend his time in drinking dens and with whores which suited his plans perfectly. The boy was too stupid to know what his father got up to as long as his pockets were not to let. A sudden thought drifted into Craven’s mind.

“Have you lain with my daughter, Whitmore?”

Incensed by this ignorant man, William held tightly to Buffy’s hand to stop himself from planting the man a facer.

“Your daughter is still a virgin, your grace, and will stay that way until our marriage.” Feeling his anger rise to even greater heights than before. “If you ever repeat that statement, nothing will stop me from killing you.”

Craven decided it was time he called the shots once more. “I can still stop the wedding, boy. It’s my money that’s paying for this and my money that will keep you during my lifetime.”

William refused to be dominated by the duke. “The marriage contracts have been signed, Craven. Cry off if you must, but I will drag this through the courts for years. It was your stipulation that almost your whole family remove themselves to our estates and one with which I am happy to comply. Your behaviour this evening has put me into such disgust that I would remove them before the wedding had Lady Joyce been well.”

Buffy looked up at William in surprise. “Would you really have done that, William?”

Smiling down at his love he moved his arm across her shoulders and drew her close to him.

“In a heartbeat, kitten.” William looked down into her emerald eyes. “You should know by now that I would do anything for you.”

The smile on her face as she looked up at him went straight to his heart.

Craven was out for revenge. “How bloody touching. This display makes me sick.” He smiled evilly at the couple. “Do anything for her will you Whitmore? Have you sent your mistress packing? I’m sure Drusilla Angelus won’t let her little pet get away quite so easily.”

Time to take the wind from her father’s sails, thought Buffy before she replied.

“You think to hurt me by stating William has a mistress when you still smell of your whore’s cheap perfume? Let me tell you this, father, William has been more than honest about his intentions towards this marriage and the part Drusilla Angelus will play in it.” Buffy moved closer to her father as she continued. “Go attend your wife before you return to your whore. I hope not to see you until the day of the marriage when you escort me down the aisle. Until then stay away from me and stay away from William unless it is to hand over my dowry. As William said the contracts have been signed and you cannot renege on it.”

Buffy’s look of hatred directed at her father was not hard to miss. “From now on Xander, Dawn and I will look after mother. I have already dismissed the quack you had attend her. His only advice was to bleed her and fill her with laudanum. I will consult with William’s father on the best care for her, you need do nothing. This may be your home but until my marriage I will run it without your help. With that in mind, William and his father will be staying here. Your presence is not required.”

William stared in awe at Buffy as Craven seemed to deflate before him. She had beat the man with words and he admired her for it. He would have to remember to keep on the right side of this woman or he could find himself with a dagger in his heart. She was absolutely magnificent. Craven had totally under-estimated the resolve of his little girl and was now paying for it.

Chapter 42 – The water closet

AN* to all my lovely reviewers, once again I thank you







Craven flounced out the drawing room door like a six year old child in a tantrum. William held open his arms and Buffy ran into them. Wrapping his arms around her back, he drew her close. She was shivering with nerves, and all William could think was how brave his kitten was. Holding her close to his body for comfort he dropped little kisses over her hair.

“I am so proud of you, luv. Standing up to your father like that was wonderful to see.”

Buffy revelled in his warmth and strength. She wondered if maybe she had gone too far with her outburst, yet she did not feel sorry. Her father had angered her beyond belief and she had told him the truth as she saw it. The man had manipulated William and she into marriage in order to get rid of his wife and youngest daughter.

Still gripping William tightly she mumbled into his shirt. “How long do you think he will stay in the house, Spike?”

“Not long, sweetheart.” He replied, as he glanced at the clock on the mantel. It was barely seven o’clock. Sure that Craven would spend no more that ten minutes with his wife, he was happy to hold Buffy till he had gone. “Let’s go and sit down, kitten. You’ve had a long day and need to rest.”

Exhausted by her tirade, she let him lead her to a seat. Her body was still shaking as he took his place beside her and pulled her back into his arms.

“Why did you come early, Spike?” she asked in a small voice.

“Couldn’t stay away any longer, pet. Just had to see you.” He grinned over the top of her head. “And what a welcome I received. I find you throwing things in the drawing room with an accuracy any cricket team in England would love to see in a bowler. Then you try to kill me with a fencing foil.” He kissed her hair softly and whispered in her ear. “And then you suck me to heaven.” Taking a deep breath he continued. “Good God woman, have you any idea how much I love you?”

Buffy lifted her head to look at him. He smiled lovingly at her and pulled her closer.

“I know you are fond of me, Spike, but I cannot believe you love me.”

Startled at her reply, he asked “Why not?”

Buffy pouted at him “But two days since you told me that you would continue to see Drusilla Angelus during our marriage. Would you have me believe that you have changed your mind so quickly?”

William moved them both until they lay prone on the couch side by side. “Oh believe it, sweetheart. After last night I promise I will never touch another woman.” Bending his head he kissed her passionately. As he lifted his head he whispered against her mouth. “And I would like you to promise me that you will never have another man.”

“I will stay faithful to you, Spike, for as long as you stay faithful to me.”

“I trust your word, my darling, and I will do everything in my power to make sure your trust is not misplaced.” Moving her under him he ground his erection into her thigh. “Do you feel what you do to me with just a kiss? You drive me fucking wild, woman. I just have to think about the way you look, the way you smell and the way you taste for this to happen.”

Her breasts felt tight and swollen under her chemise and she arched her back against his chest to relieve the friction.

He could feel the bullet points of her nipples against his and groaned against her neck. “We need to stop, kitten, before I stick my head up your dress and eat your raw.”

Buffy giggled into his neck. “I don’t think I like not having hair down there, Spike”

Startled at her change of topic he lifted his head raised an eyebrow in query.

“It’s just it makes everything so sensitive. Whenever I feel the pull of my drawers against my skin and I start to get wet. Every time I move its like little fingers are tickling me and I feel I am about to see the stars at any moment. Is that why you did it to me, so I would be ready for you all the time?”

William pressed himself against her. “Don’t speak for God’s sake, Buffy, or I swear we will never make dinner.” He moved his hand down to her delectable little bum and rubbed his erection against her mound through their clothes. Fascinated by the look on her face, he watched as she threw her head back against the cushions and moaned. “Are you wet for me now, pet?”

Buffy lifted her head from the sofa cushions and stared at him. “Of course I’m fucking wet, Spike. I’m dying here, but we have to stop. I need to change for dinner and someone could come into the room at any moment.”

Collapsing on top of her, he buried his head into her neck and gave it a little nibble. “I know.” With tremendous effort he lifted himself from her and stood. His hard on could cut through glass and he had some difficulty standing. “Come on, sweetling. I’ll escort you to your room.”

Hand in hand they left the drawing room and mounted the stairs to Buffy’s bed chamber. Passing her mother’s door she could hear her father’s voice inside and anger bubbled up in her throat. Holding tighter to William’s hand as she passed, she remembered that her mother wished to speak to him. She would tell him later. No doubt her father would take his time in saying his ‘Good Bye’s”.

At her bed chamber door, William paused to pull her into his arms and kiss her. Buffy wound her arms around his neck and threw herself into his kiss. She whispered against his mouth, “I am going to have to diddle myself when I get in the room, Spike. I want you so bad right now that everything down there is painful.”

William was laughing softly against her neck. “You’re not the only one, sweetheart. I am going to that new water closet thing you have in here to get some relief myself.”

The idea struck both of them at the same time. The water closet was a room with a locked door and no one would be surprised when either of them emerged from it. They would not be disturbed and in both their current state of arousal, they would not be long.

Hand in hand they ran to the end of the corridor, and with a quick look round to check they had not been observed, they entered and locked the door. The water closet had been created from an old dressing room and was wide enough for them to manoeuvre.

“Get your titties out for me, Buffy, while I get these pantaloons down.”

“So subtle,” she giggled at him. “Do you want the drawers off too?”

William freed his erection and gave himself a stroke or two while he waited for her to lift her breasts over her neckline. “I’ll take care of the drawers, luv, just let me eat your tits for a little while.”

When she was free, William approached and rubbed both hands over her hardened nipples. Buffy’s knees gave out slightly and he closed the lid of closet and sat her down. He dropped to his knees in front of her and with infinite care drew her right nipple into his mouth. He licked slowly around her sharp bud while his fingers did the same to its twin. After a few seconds, he moved his mouth to her other breast and laved her lovingly. Sitting back on his heels he stared at her moistened buds.

“Beautiful, just beautiful” he whispered as he laid his head between her breasts to suckle them both. Buffy’s hands were in his hair pulling him towards her and her nails were digging into his scalp. He loved the feel of her hands in his hair as he continued to suck. He stopped and moved slightly back from her still on his knees. “Lift your skirt, pet. Let me see my pussy.”

Buffy stood and lifted her skirts to her waist. Her shaven mound was level with his face covered by her drawers. William lifted his hands and un-fastened the tapes that secured them and let them drop to the floor. Without taking his eyes from her mound he gently extracted each foot till there was nothing between him and his feast.

Her need was glistening on her pussy lips and some juice was running down her legs. Can’t let that go to waste, he thought as he gently lapped at the rivulets. He lifted one of her legs over her shoulder and dived in. She was wetter than she had ever been before and as he sucked on her clit he moved her juice around her hole with his fingers.

“Stop, Spike”

He backed away immediately, confusing written all over his face.

“Can we do what we did last night when I sat on your face and sucked you as you licked me?” She smiled a huge smile down at him. “I liked that very much.”

“Your wish is my command, goddess.” He smiled at her. When he made that little gesture with his tongue behind his teeth she almost melted into the floor.

He lay back on the floor and with his hands guided her hips into position over his face. The dress proved a cumbersome obstacle, but he was nothing if not resourceful. He was running gentle fingers over her quivering bum when she took him into her mouth. He could not help himself and bucked up to meet her as he buried his head between her legs.

They were both in heaven. Each lick and suck was savoured by them both and they revelled in the taste of each other. Lifting her head from his cock, Buffy whispered back to him. “Lick my naughty place, Spike.” Without pausing from breath, he moved his tongue up to her puckered hole and licked. She shuddered beneath his tongue and he smiled at himself. Kitten likes me to play with her little hole, he thought, and brought his fingers up to her pussy to cover them in her juice. When he was they were well coated he push one finger in slowly followed by another. He was fascinated by the way her little hole would close when he removed his fingers and open up as he pushed them back in.

Buffy had started to cup his balls and he knew he would not last much longer. With deft finger his filled both her holes as his teeth latched on to her clit. Within seconds both were moaning and writhing on the floor in ecstasy.

Falling back from each other they panted and smiled.

“I swear to god, Buffy, if we keep this up I won’t be able to stop myself from fucking you. I love you so much, sweetheart, and I want to make you mine in every way.”

Lying back on the floor in exhaustion Buffy smiled at the ceiling. She was getting close to letting him take her but she was still determined to remain a virgin until she was sure of him.

“Soon, Spike” she breathed. “I am not quite ready for that step yet. I like what we do to each other just now. Is it not enough?”

William sat up and looked at her sated form and smiled. “As long as you let me into your ‘naughty place’ now and then, sweetling, I will be happy.”

Buffy laughed from her position on the floor. “Not tonight, Spike. I am a little bit on the tender side.”

William moved to cuddle her on the floor. “I think we have both had enough for tonight, luv, but just you wait until tomorrow.”

And with that comment he kissed her soundly on the lips.

Chapter 43 – A mother’s love, a father’s reason


AN* Joyce and William have a talk



By ten o’clock that evening the house was quiet. Craven had removed himself back to Chelsea and Annandale had retired to bed. Xander had gone courting the Lady Cordelia and Dawn was fast asleep. Buffy and William were sitting cuddled on a sofa in the drawing room holding hands and exchanging small kisses.

As the drawing room clock chimed the hour, Buffy remembered her mother’s request. Turning to William she relayed her mother’s instructions and requested he join her in a visit. He was happy to comply. Lady Joyce was known for her compassion and he would like to chat with her awhile.

Buffy and William made their way to her mother’s room. Outside the door, Buffy turned to William and lifted her finger to her lips before asking him to wait. She slipped quietly through the door to check that her mother was able to receive him and had not fallen asleep. Within moments the door opened and she bid him through.

Lady Joyce was sitting up in bed smiling at William as he entered her room. As he walked to her bedside she gestured to the chair at her side for him to sit.

“Would you leave us, Buffy?” her mother asked.

Taken aback at her dismissal, Buffy merely nodded and made for the door.

“Please do not stay too long, William. My mother needs rest.”

William smiled back at Buffy as he replied. “We’re just going to have a cosy chat, luv, then I think I will talk to my father for a while.” He winked at her, “I’ll see you at breakfast, kitten. Don’t be late. If the weather if fine I’ll take us for a ride in the park.”

Buffy’s smile lit the room. “I would like that very much, William. I will ask Giles to speak to cook about a picnic.” The door closed quietly behind her.

Her grace turned her head slightly until she caught William’s eye.

“Do you love my daughter, William? Or are you bamming her for money?”

He looked back at Lady Joyce in surprise. “I happen to love her very much, your grace. I thank the gods daily that she agreed to marry me.”

A look of fury passed over the duchess’ face. “Do not try that tack with me, my lord. I know exactly why you are marrying my daughter. If you think for one minute that Buffy does not realise the tactics both your family and her father have employed, you are much mistaken.”

William laughed softly and smiled at the duchess. “Buffy has left me in no doubt about this marriage, your grace. She has made it quite plain where we both stand.” His face took on a serious countenance “I will be honest with you as I have been with her.” He sighed before he continued.

“This marriage was proposed as a way of bringing money into the Annandale family. I neither wanted a marriage nor cared about one. I was willing to go along with your husband’s conditions as it meant I could keep my mistress. You, Lady Dawn and Buffy were to be removed from London within a month of the nuptials.”

Her grace interrupted him to enquire. “Are you telling me part of the marriage agreement was to remove most of the family to your estate?”

“Indeed, your grace. I had been instructed to get Buffy increasing as soon as possible after the marriage and then remove you all to Annandale. The agreement was that I would spend but one month a year in Annandale and could spend the rest of the year in London following my own pursuits.

Lady Joyce was quick to pick up on what exactly his pursuits entailed. “So you were to spend my daughter’s money on gambling and whores while Buffy, Dawn and I rotted away in the north.” She sighed as she looked at William, “I always knew Henry was an absolute bastard, but this really is the limit. And stop calling me ‘your grace’, William. We are almost family, call me Joyce,” she smiled at him.

William decided that there was no point in holding anything back. This woman was loved by Buffy, and he suspected also by his father. She deserved to know the whole truth, well not quite everything. She did not need to know just how well he had come to know her daughter.

“Buffy worked it out, Joyce. As you say she is not stupid.” William smiled wryly in remembrance of Buffy’s ultimatum in the library. “For the marriage to go ahead, she has some conditions of her own. Number one, I must hand her half the dower on the night of the marriage. Number two, we are to leave for Annandale almost immediately after the wedding. Number three, I have to hand over an additional fifteen thousand pounds to be used to bring the estate back in order, which she has promised to do for myself and my father. She also informed me that as I had a mistress, she would take a lover. She promised to be discreet and ensure that there were no bastards in the Annandale line, but I was not to ask her anything about her affairs. And finally I must never enter her bed while I have….uh….other interests.”

The duchess looked at him in shock. “These are her conditions, William? And you have agreed to them?”

William’s head rolled back as he laughed. “I thought I had got a bargain, Joyce. A rich wife who promised more gold from her hard work and I could keep my mistress on the money she brought me. Forty thousand pounds seemed a good investment.”

His face turned serious “But I was wrong Joyce. I fell in love with Buffy and I want nothing more than to be at her side forever. I have already broken with my mistress and have no intention of going back to her.” In a small voice he added, “She does not love me Joyce but we have learned to deal well together. If I have to spend the rest of my life proving my love to her, I will.”

He looked at Joyce sitting still on the bed and continued. “She had one more condition. I was to live on the dower estate ten miles hence from Annandale and never come near her. I can’t do that, Joyce. I have to be near her to survive.” He sighed and looked towards the fireplace, he was not sure he could say what needed to be said to the duchess’ face, but say it he must.

“I have not lived a good life, Joyce. I have spent most of my time in darkness and evil. I will not tell you of some of the things I have done with my life, but suffice to say it has not been pretty.” He turned back to her then, an earnest look on his face.

“She is my sun, Joyce. She brings light into all aspects of my life. I would do anything she asked even if it meant my own life. Buffy is everything to me.”

Joyce looked at the young man sitting beside her in wonder. “You are serious, William. You would lay down your life for her?”

“If it made her happy, I would do it with pleasure.” When he looked at Joyce she could see a tear in his eye. “I love her.”

Extending her hand for him to hold, she lifted his hand to her mouth and kissed his fingers. She continued to hold his hand as she spoke.

“I trust you to look after her, William. Be patient in your dealings with her and show her that you care. Her father always treated her badly and she will need constant reassurance that you will never leave her.”

His eyes filled with anger as he replied. “Craven hit her tonight, Joyce. She had to stop me killing him. I have never felt such anger in my life. I want to bring the wedding forward and get you all out of here, but Buffy believes it would be best to wait.” He smiled at her then and held her hand in both of his. “He is spending a fortune on Annandale House to make sure it is fit for you to live in, Joyce. Let him spend his money as he sees fit, ‘twill be us who benefit.”

Joyce laughed at his comment. “Oh he is not spending his money, William. He is spending mine.”

“I beg your pardon, Joyce?” he asked.

“Craven was down to his last five thousand when we married, William. I brought almost a million pounds to his coffers. He will always ensure I have the best.”

William stared at her open-mouthed. He had always known that Craven was as rich as Croseus but had never realised the source.

“Buffy has been learning estate management since she could count and spell. Leave her to run the estate, William. She does not lie when she tells you she will bring you gold. Support all her decisions. She knows what she is doing.”

“Thank you for your advice, Joyce. I will make sure I follow it.” He dropped her hand back to the counterpane and rose to leave.

“I am glad we have cleared the air, William. I admit I had my doubts about this alliance, but I think it will turn out well for us all.” Joyce lay back against the pillows and a tired look crept into her eyes. “I have to warn you of one thing, William.”

He raised one eyebrow as he waited for her to finish.

“If you ever hurt my little girl, I will kill you myself.”

William laughed heartily. “You won’t need to, Joyce. I will gladly do it myself.”

She smiled at him from the pillows. “Good night, son. Please come and speak to me tomorrow.”

It had been many years since William had heard almost the same phrase from his mother’s lips. Without thinking he bent and dropped a light kiss to her forehead.

“Good night, Joyce. I will come visit you on the morrow.”

She smiled as she fell asleep.


William entered his father’s room without knocking. He knew his father well and was not surprised when he found him sitting up in bed reading a book. He felt like a young child again as he sat on the bed at his father’s feet.

“Well you look like the cat that got the cream. Is everything all right, son?”

William lay back across the bed and smiled at his father.

“Everything is perfect, father. I am about to marry the most beautiful, courageous, intelligent woman in the world, and I love her”

Annandale smiled at his son. “I was watching you both tonight, my boy. There is a definite affection between you.”

William sat up on the bed and turned to face his father. He leaned back against the footrest and spoke bluntly.

“I have just had a long talk with Joyce.” William laughed at his father’s raised eyebrows at his son’s lack of use of the duchess’ title. “She told me to call her Joyce, father. She is a wonderful woman and I cannot understand what Craven sees in his whores.”

His father thought William deserved the truth. “Craven likes to be cruel to his women, William. He seeks out whores who enjoy the type of pleasure he likes. I believe he never used any of his evil practices on his wife which is why he strayed so quickly after their marriage. She may have been disappointed that her husband did not share her bed often, but I tell you this she was lucky he did not.”

“How do you know this, father?” asked William.

“We shared a room at Oxford. He liked to inflict pain even then.”

Silently William pondered his next question. “Do you have strong feelings for her grace, father?”

Annandale smiled at his son. “Not as strong as the feelings I had for Anne, my boy, but there are some feelings still in this old heart.” There was sadness in his voice as he continued, “She has always been loyal to Henry. I would never ask anything of her.”

Before he could stop himself, William asked the question that had been on his mind all day.

“Do you have a mistress tucked away somewhere, father?”

Annandale laughed uproariously at his son’s comment.

“Not at the moment, William. I gave the last one her conge in July.”

William decided to joke with his father over this announcement. “I have one going spare if you want to take on Dru”

“I would rather kill the bitch, William, than fuck her.”

Father and son continued to talk long into the night.






Craven had taken a detour in his journey to Chelsea. As he walked up to the large black-painted door, he wondered if lady of the house would be at home.

The knocker had not been removed from the door which meant the mistress of the house was at home. He was glad. He had neither the time nor inclination to dally in front of this house. Lifting the heavy brass, he knocked loudly. The door was answered within moments.

Imperious as ever, Craven walked straight past the butler and stood in the hallway as he demanded. “Get your mistress, man. Tell her the Duke of Craven requires a word.”

The duke had to wait fifteen minutes on the mistress of the house meeting him in the foyer. He had forgotten how alluring she could be and wondered if she was available for a small dalliance before her returned to Chelsea. It was then he remembered the purpose of his visit.

Lifting the woman’s hand to his lips, he smiled down to her dark brown eyes.

“It has been too long since we last met, my dear. I hope you are well?”

The beauty in front of him smiled and tilted her head to the side.

“You have not visited me for over a year, Henry. I have missed how well we play together”

For the first time that evening, Craven smiled a genuine smile. Here was a woman who understood his needs and could pander to them well. She was not exclusive though, and Craven did not like to share.

“I think you and I have business to discuss, Drusilla my dear. Do you not agree?”

Chapter 44 – Plots and counter plots.


AN* to all my reviewers once again I thank you.






Craven and Drusilla faced each other across the foyer. A myriad of thoughts went through Drusilla’s mind. Her first thought being that Craven was here to stop her seeing William so that his little sunshine could have him. She would be quick to disabuse him of that notion.

“Can we go somewhere and talk, Drusilla. I am not fond of my business being discussed by gossiping servants and whatever ciscebo you have in your bed.”

Drusilla looked at him sharply. “If you insist, your grace. Would you care to join me in the drawing room?”

Craven nodded as he followed her through the open door. As she closed the door against intrusion, she asked.

“Why are you here, Craven? I believe our liaison was over long since.”

The duke looked down at the diminutive brunette. His imperious manner could not be concealed in his words. “We had two nights of mutual pleasure, Drusilla. It was hardly a liaison.”

Drusilla smiled at the duke. “Do you wish a repeat performance, Henry?”

“I prefer my women to share only my bed, my dear, and that could never be said of you. Why half the Ton has had you and the other half are but waiting their turn.”

Anger boiled inside her. She lifted her clawed hand to draw it down his face and mark him. How dare he speak to her in this manner, the man was no saint. His wife was lucky he looked for his pleasure in other’s beds; she doubted the fair duchess would enjoy the lash.

Craven caught her arm easily before she could land her claws. She was, indeed, a vixen and a part of him would enjoy taming her. He was here on business not pleasure and quickly put the thought out of his mind as he forcibly sat her down on a chair.

“Listen to me you insane bitch. I am not here for anything other than information.” He let go her arm as he continued. “Does Whitmore still visit?”

She had not seen her prince in two days and nights and her missive had been returned. It was hardly as if he had been from her side for months. He would be returning to her soon, once he was bored with his sunshine. Not sure how much Craven knew, she decided on the truth.

“He has not visited these past few days, Craven, but he will return to me.”

Craven sneered at her, “Are you so sure Drusilla? You have not seen how he behaves around my daughter. The upstart attacked me tonight when I admonished her behaviour. Not the act of someone who does not care.”

Drusilla reeled back in her chair. She had always been so sure of her prince. He was controllable and willing to act in all her plays. She would not lose him. Was Craven here to rub salt in her wounds and make her bleed? How dare he bring this news to her, she would not believe it.

“He only dallies with the chit. He loves me and will return.”

Laughing openly at her, Craven went in for the kill. “He will not return, Drusilla. That is why I am here. I want you to use all your charm to wean him away from my daughter. It is not part of my plan to have him love her. I am spending huge amounts of money on this marriage contract and it WILL go to my plan.”

“And what plan is that, Craven. The plan to remove your wife from London while you slake your lust on whatever whore can take your punishment? You hypocritical bastard! You regale at me for my lifestyle while you do just the same.”

She rose from the chair and walked slowly towards the duke.

“I will get William for me, Craven, not for you. He is my dark prince and belongs in the dark with me. I, too, have plans for William and they do not include you or your family.”

Calmly she walked to the door and bellowed for her butler from the open doorway.

“The Duke is leaving. Make sure the knocker is removed from the door. I will see no visitors tonight.”

Craven glared angrily at her and made his way to the door. He would be back to make sure she understood that she had to bring William to heel. Another few days without her lapdog would ensure she act and try to contact him. A little help with his direction may not go amiss.

“William is not at home just now, Drusilla. He stays as Craven House while my wife is unwell. Just thought you might like his direction.” With that he walked out the door to return to Catherine and his pleasures for the night.





Clem and Faith had finally surfaced from the bedroom. Both sated after their long sojourn apart, they had spent almost a day and a night together.

Sighing over his breakfast, Clem reflected on the tasks he had promised to take on for Craven. He had relayed everything to Faith between bouts of lovemaking, but it still hung heavy on him that he had to leave her alone for so long. Xander and he would be gone at least a sennight, maybe more. The route to Annandale was long and in some places dangerous, they had much to do to ensure the safety of Buffy’s family.

“I don’t like to leave you so long, sweetheart. I wish you could accompany me.”

Faith smiled at her lover across the table. “I know.” Looking down at her plate, she continued. “Do not let anyone know which inns you will be using, Clem. I do not trust Angelus or his wife. They will do their best to disrupt any plans you make.”

Lifting her head, she smiled at him. “That insane bitch will try anything, Clem. I hate them both more than I ever hated Trenton.”

Clem stared at her in surprise. “Is there something you missed telling me last night, Faith?”

“There are many things I have not told you, Clem. There are things that inhabit the dark places in my mind and I let no one enter.”

At his hurt look, she did her best to pacify him. He was so good to her after all. “Angelus loves to inflict pain and suffering. I have been told he likes to force himself on women; the more they resist the better he likes it. If William keeps Drusilla happy then he will do his best to make sure he stays in her grasp. You must warn him to be careful.”

“I promise I will talk to him, sweetling. I am not sure if it will be today, but I will speak to him as soon as I can.”

Faith smiled at her lover. “I can ask for nothing more, Clem.”





Craven House was abuzz with the news that her grace would be coming down to breakfast. She appeared much improved overnight, and declared herself fit to rise from her bed.

Buffy had burst into William’s room to impart the good news. She did not expect to find him lounging in his bath by the fire. There was no sign of his valet yet for some reason the position she found him in was too intimate for her. Stammering an apology, she made to leave his room.

William sat up quickly and water poured over the sides to pool on the floor by the tub.

“Well good morning to you, kitten. Have you come to scrub my back?”

Buffy blushed and wondered why. They had seen each other naked and explored each other, yet seeing him wet in the tub was embarrassing to her.

“No.” she said quickly. “I have come to tell you that my mother will be joining us for breakfast this morning, and I thought you would like to know.”

William smiled from the tub and laid his head to rest on the back of the tub. Smiling at her he beckoned her towards him with a crooked finger. “Come here, Buffy.” He bid her in a low voice.

Slowly she crossed the room. She dropped to her knees at the side of the bath and smiled shyly at him. “I have never scrubbed someone’s back, Spike. Would you like me to do that for you?”

He leered at her from his prone position in the tub. “I’d prefer you scrubbed my front, sweetheart.” He lowered his voice and whispered to her. “I would really like you to make sure that all parts of me are clean.”

Smiling coquettishly at him, she enquired. “Is your front very dirty, my lord?”

“Why indeed it is, my Lady” he answered her in the same vein. “It is so dirty that it needs a gentle little hand to rub it all clean.”

Buffy laughed at him. He really could be quite charming when he wanted to be. She lifted some soap from the small bowl beside the tub, and dropped her hands for a moment into the water to increase the lather.

“Would my lord like me to wash him all over, or just his extra dirty places?”

“Your lord would like you to wash anything you like as long as you finish with his extra dirty places.”

Buffy laughed once more. This man really was the limit. He deserved to be teased. Moving to the bottom of the tub she lifted his foot and spent a long time washing it. When she moved on to the other foot, William started to groan.

“Buffy, wash my dirty place.”

“When I am sure the rest of you is clean, my lord. We cannot have you appear at breakfast smelling like a street urchin.”

William’s eyes were closed, but there was a large grin on his face.

“Of course not, my lady. Wash what you like”

Buffy moved the soap slowly up his legs. He opened them as far as he could within the confines of the tub. She deliberately missed his dick and moved to his stomach and chest. As she drew closer to his face, he opened his eyes and stared deep into hers. Her breath caught at the look of adoration in them. She still did not totally trust his feelings, but she could not deny that at this moment, he was hers.

“Kiss me, Buffy.” He asked. “Kiss me like we were never going to kiss again.”

“’Twill be my pleasure, my lord” and with that she bent her head to his. She placed small kisses along his mouth. He kept his mouth closed and she sighed in frustration. Remembering how easily he could get her to open to him, she tried the same tricks. Licking at the seam of his lips with her pointed tongue and nipping gently at his bottom lip he finally opened his lips and she moved her tongue inside his mouth to massage his. He let her play with his tongue for a few moments before bringing his into play.

Soon the kiss became heated. Buffy placed her hands in his hair and pulled him closer. Not caring that he would mess her attire, William lifted his hands to her hair to hold her. Breathing soon became an issue and they pulled apart.

Flushed and aroused, Buffy spoke “Is this normal, Spike? When two people kiss as we do is there this much passion?”

“Honestly, luv, no.” he smiled at her. “It only happens like this when there are real feelings between two people.” He lowered his voice and a serious look came into his eyes. “We have deep feelings for one another, Buffy. You may not trust how I feel about you yet, sweetheart, but I can assure that I have never felt this way about anyone before.”

She could not help but ask. “Even Drusilla Angelus?”

At the mention of Dru’s name, William’s erection died a death.

“I thought I loved her, Buffy, but I see now that it was only sex.”

Buffy made to move back from the tub and William held her arm to keep her in place.

“I was nineteen when I met her, Buffy. I had come straight from the country and had been rejected by a woman I thought I loved. She was there, waiting in the wings, to make her move. I stupidly followed like a lapdog, glad of any attention she bestowed.”

He held her eyes with his for what seemed like forever.

“I made you a promise that I would never go near her again and I intend to keep my promises to you. Do you believe me, Buffy?”

Buffy looked into his eyes and saw the sincerity in them.

“I believe you, Spike.” A look of anger entered her eyes. “I will not countenance betrayal, Spike. If I hear that you are seeing her again I will have an affair with the first man who asks. Are we clear on this point?”

William smiled happily at his love. “Very clear, sweetheart.” He lifted his head and kissed her passionately once more.

“Now wench,” he joked. “Clean my dirty places before I pull you in beside me and fuck you blind.”

Laughing heartily, Buffy placed more soap in her hands and proceeded to do her master’s bidding.

Chapter 45 – Before the ball.


William had settled well into his room at Craven House. True to his word, the duke had hardly appeared in his home since the altercation with Buffy. It had been a week since his last appearance, and both Joyce and Buffy and bloomed without his presence.

The duchess, now well aware that her errant husband had a mistress in Chelsea, threw herself into the wedding plans. Annandale was constantly at her side helping her plan and urging her to rest. William suspected that his father’s tendre for Joyce was deepening, but he said naught to his father on the subject. Let the man have his fun. Joyce was still a beautiful woman and her husband had shown her little affection over the years. She deserved a little flirtation and attention.

Over the last week, William and Joyce had shared long cosy chats while Buffy and Dawn were at the modiste in Bond Street. They had talked of the up-coming marriage, and the plans for moving north. Joyce had confessed to him of her slight trepidation about the length of time it would take to remove their party to Annandale, but William had assured her all would be well. Clem and Xander had not yet returned from making the arrangements, but William was confident that the two men would return in the next few days.

Buffy and William had attended balls and routs almost every evening. Their presence as a loving couple had become firmly established within ton circles, and it had not gone un-noticed that William would scowl at men asking his fiancé for a dance. Half the men envied him his beautiful fiancé, while the other half wondered how long it would be before he bored of her and she would be available.

Dawn and William had built a relationship based on teasing. He enjoyed her company and because Buffy loved her, he loved her too. She was full of fun and he loved the way she would blush when he called her his ‘little bit’. He would often take Dawn and Buffy for rides in the park in the afternoons while their mother rested or took tea with his father. When the butler, Giles, had started to address him as though he were the master of the house and not a guest, William knew he had been accepted by the Craven household.

How quickly domestic bliss could take over one’s will, and leave one content. William had started to look forward to going home to Annandale with his extended little family. He imagined long wonderful days content with the company of his three favourite girls, and even longer nights with his beloved Buffy. She had not visited him since the morning she helped him bathe and they had never been alone since. They had shared little more than chaste kisses and it was driving him insane. He needed her to be with him soon, even if all she allowed was him to hold her.

There was one dark cloud over their happy family and that was Drusilla. She had written him three missives during his stay at Craven House and each had been returned unopened. He was determined to keep his promise to Buffy and have nothing more to do with her, but they had been together a long time and there were still occasions when he thought of the delights of his dark princess. When these thought passed through his mind, he forced them away by thinking of Buffy and her golden light.

Tonight was the night of the Betrothal Ball. Buffy, Dawn and Joyce had been fitted with new gowns for the occasion. Even William and Annandale had taken a trip or two to their tailor to be fitted for the event. The ballroom had been cleaned to within an inch of its life and the kitchens had been busy preparing food for the event. Giles had ensured that the cellars were well stocked, and a varied selection of wines and champagne had been chosen for the guests.

Joyce had been in her element making all the arrangements. William had been impressed with her abilities and realised that these talents had kept the duchess by her husband’s side. Craven had obviously left all these types of dealings to his wife in the past, and considering the amount of times the Craven’s entertained he must have been confident in her skills. Part of him bristled that all she had ever been to him was a decorative ornament who could organise a suitable social life. The man clearly cared nothing for her and he felt great sympathy for her position in this damned household. She would fare well in Annandale, of that he was certain.

Joyce’s health had continued to improve steadily. A new physician, Professor McGregor, had been appointed by Annandale and the man had quickly pin-pointed the reason for her malady. Her Grace, he had proclaimed with severity, was suffering from slight fits caused by some blockages in the brain. He had recommended little excitement, subdued lighting in all the chambers and the use of lavender water in her bath.

Buffy had cried for a long time when McGregor had left. She had rejected William when he tried to console her and accepted the arms of his father. Later when they had chance to speak, she explained that she had hugged Annandale for bringing McGregor into the household. She was not happy that her mother was so unwell, but she had been happy to at last learn the truth. It became clear that the quack her father had employed had known the truth of their mother’s condition but had chosen not to treat her with anything other than laudanum and bleeding.

It was yet another sin to lay at her father’s door. The man she had respected and adored for most of her life was fast becoming her enemy. William knew exactly how she felt and his hatred of the man had increased tenfold at her distress.

Craven was expected to attend this evening’s ball. It would not send a good message to the ton if he did not appear and the household had been on tenterhooks all day awaiting his arrival. He had sent word that he would be return at six of the clock, and he expected his rooms to be available and his bath ready. The Duke’s valet had arrived at the house earlier in the day to prepare his Grace’s attire for the evening. The man felt uncomfortable back in the Craven mansion and had been quizzed for a considerable length of time by some of the servants. All had been curious as to the whereabouts of their missing master.

By four that afternoon, all the women had retired to their chambers to prepare for the evening. William and his father were sitting discussing the progress of the wedding preparations when the drawing room door entered to admit Clem and Xander.

William beamed a smiled at his friend and they hugged each other in welcome. Annandale rose from his chair and greeted Xander warmly. He was sure the young man had been brow-beaten for years by his bastard of a father, and the young man needed all the confidence building he could get. He doubted the youngster had many friends and he was sure that William would be able to bring him out of his shell. It was a pity he would be returning to Oxford after the wedding and he decided that a time at Annandale would suit the young man well. Annandale decided that he would invite Xander to his home soon.

The drawing room became a hive of activity as William rang for brandy to warm them all. Giles entered soberly and had carefully poured each man a glass. He was taken aback when Annandale asked them to join them in a toast to the successful return of Xander and Clem. At his startled expression, Annandale had risen from his chair and drew the man aside.

“We both know how much you love the women of this house, Giles. I am trying to show you how much my son and I appreciate all you do for them.” At the startled look on the butler’s face, Annandale continued. “They will have a good life with my son, Giles. He loves them all very much and cannot wait to remove them from Craven’s influence.” Turning back for a moment to look at the camaraderie so obviously enjoyed by the three men, he continued. “As soon as we get settled in Annandale we will send for his young Lordship. William and I will take him in hand and make sure he learns all he needs to know to become a good Duke.”

Giles looked at the duke for a long time. This man had soared in his estimation in the time he had lived in the house. He had treated all the servants with inherent respect and they had loved him for it. It was no secret below stairs that he worshipped the duchess, but as one they believed she deserved some happiness after the coldness of Craven. Too many times a servant girl had been turned from the house due her state of pregnancy thanks to Craven’s attentions. On more than one occasion a physician had been sent for to clean up the wounds the man had left on their skin. Craven might be his employer, it did not mean he had to like the man.

“I would be honoured, your grace.” Giles eventually stammered in reply.

Annandale smiled at the retainer. “Good, I am pleased. You must also inform us of the arrangements you have made to transport all your mistress’s belongings to the estate.”

All five men stood around the fireplace sipping the best brandy that Craven’s cellars could provide. William was eager to hear of the success of the trip and he also wanted to know the progress of the work on the house.

“Clem, tell me how the trip has gone” he asked of his friend.

Clem smiled at William. He had never seen him look so content and wondered if he knew how much his happiness meant to him. After Faith’s confessions he had been fearful that William would still seek out Dru for his pleasure, but he had no doubt that the woman had been turned away. With gladness in his heart, he replied.

“All is well, Will. Xander and I have procured rooms at inns for the full journey. We have calculated that it will take five days if you travel slowly and maybe four days if you have good weather and roads. The horses are well stabled and will be fresh each day.”

Both Annandale and William beamed at Xander and Clem.

“This is indeed good news.” Annandale answered for himself and his son. “And the repairs to the house, Clem, do they progress well?”

Clem allowed Xander to answer this question. He had been impressed with the young man’s knowledge of construction once they had arrived at Annandale and had happily left the supervision of the work to him.

“The house is almost complete, your grace” Xander informed Annandale. “The repairs to the roof had been managed before we arrived and there have been armies of cleaners and painters in the house for the last week preparing for your arrival. The workmen from Craven Hall had been given leave by my father to employ as many men as it would take to complete the work, and you will be pleased to know that the house now boasts four new water closets.”

Xander’s heart swelled at the look of approval on the duke’s face. He had never seen his father look at him in such a way and he proudly continued.

“Unfortunately, the garden is still in a state of flux. New drains had to be dug to accommodate the closets and these were not quite complete when we left. I have been assured that all will be well when William arrives, however I think the garden will need a lot of work once they are done.”

“I don’t really care about the gardens, lad, as long as the house is ready for your mother.” Annandale smiled his approval at the young man. “I will personally make sure you father knows of the work you have put in on this, Xander, and I thank you for all you have done.”

Turning to Giles, Annandale enquired. “Are the arrangements in hand to transport the ladies requirements, Giles?”

Flushed slightly from the brandy, Giles replied “Indeed, sir. The trunks were dispatched eight days since by canal boat. I had been assured they would arrive in two days.”

Clem interrupted the conversation between Annandale and Giles to inform them that the trunks and furniture had indeed arrived and were in storage in the house while the work continued.

“This is indeed good news gentlemen. Another brandy I think for all before we go our separate ways. We need to get ready for the ball this evening.”

Giles resumed his duties once more and filled the brandy glasses with the amber liquid. All in the room drank to the successful outcome of their tasks, and each looked forward to their evening.

William looked forward to it most of all. He was determined that he and Buffy would be alone at some point in the evening, and would suggest she visit him tonight after the ball.

Soon all the men took their leave of each other. They would meet again in but a few hours. Before he departed, Clem took William aside.

“I need to speak to you soon, Will. I think there may be trouble brewing on the horizon for you.”

Intrigued by his statement, William bristled with curiosity. “How thrilling you make it sound, Clem, but it will have to wait. I have a fiancé to escort tonight and I have not seen her all day.”

Shaking his head at his friend’s denial, Clem replied. “As you wish, Will. But we need to talk soon. I will return tomorrow morning and we can discuss things then.”

Laughing at his friend, William smiled as he clapped Clem on the shoulder. “Make it the afternoon, my friend. I do not intend to be asleep until the early hours.”

Clem understood his intentions immediately and frowned. “You are careful with Buffy, Will?” he asked.

“So careful, Clem, that she is still intact and will remain that way until the wedding.” William smiled at his friend once more. “Well at least that is what we intend, but it’s getting harder for both of us.”

“Treat her right, Will. She is not a whore to be played with and discarded.”

At the look of fury on William’s face, Clem stepped back.

“She will NEVER be my whore, Clem. She will always be my wife.”

Comprehension dawned on Clem. “You really do love her, don’t you Will?” he asked.

William calmed down immediately when he realised his friend’s concern had been about his old reputation.

“With all my heart, Clem.” He told his friend as he escorted him from the room.

Chapter 46 – Two fathers, one divide.



Craven had returned at six making straight to his suite of rooms. He did not want to be disturbed and had informed Giles that none of his family should enter while he was bathing. Giles had nodded to his employer that he understood, and left to inform the duchess of her husband’s instructions.

Annandale, however, was a different matter. He had every intention of speaking to Craven whether the man was in a bath or not. Caring not for convention, he strode in the room.

Craven was sitting in the tub in his dressing room, being soaped by his valet. Noticing he had a visitor, he scowled at him.

“Why Thomas, welcome to my humble abode. I see you and your pup have made yourselves at home in my absence. Does it make a change to live in a mansion not falling about your ears?”

With a nod to the valet to leave them alone, Annandale watched the man leave as his temper rose against the man in the bath.

“Indeed it does, Henry. Your absence makes me feel so welcome in your pile.”

Sneering at Annandale, Craven continued to soap his body. He was still deliciously sore from his time with Catherine that afternoon and was impatient to return to her after the ball. She would need more punishment this night. He would take out his frustration at Annandale on her delectable tits when he returned. Chains might be part of his entertainment later as he had not used them in some time.

“Why do you wish to speak to me, Thomas? My dealings are mainly with your son.”

Annandale fought his temper with all his being. He was glad he had chosen to deal with Henry rather than let his son loose on this man. William would just punch the man without thinking and he did not want Henry walking Buffy down the aisle with a broken nose. Pulling up a chair in order to sit beside Craven as he washed, Annandale lowered his voice before he spoke.

“Joyce knows you have a mistress, Henry. Luckily for you she does not know who, but she does know where.” Before Craven could interrupt, he continued. “I remember the terms of your marriage with Joyce, Henry. Anne was one of Joyce’s closest friends before you drove them apart with your lies about how she wanted you. We both planned this marriage since Buffy was in the cradle and I will not let you put a stop to it now.”

Craven laughed as he stood upright. “Stop it, Thomas. I have no intention of stopping it.” As he wrapped himself in towels and walked through to his dressing room, he bid Annandale follow.

“William will be taking my little virago off my hands, Thomas. She has become a little bitch lately and I cannot wait to remove her from this house. The fact that your idiot of a son is willing to take on Dawn and Joyce as well, is but a bonus.” He towelled his hair vigorously as he spoke and did not see the look of fury in Annandale’s eyes before he controlled it.

“I made a promise to you and Anne long ago, Thomas, that Buffy and William would be wed. The fact that your son will become a Duke one day is another bonus. Buffy was born to be a duchess and I intend she become one.”

Craven sat on the chair by the fire in his room still swathed in towels. He looked contemptuously at Annandale before he continued.

“You seem to forget something, Thomas” Craven sneered his name. “Your son has gone into this marriage for fifty thousand pounds and ten thousand a year. I doubt he would even have noticed Buffy in a room full of men if he had not been so easily bought. After all, Drusilla can be highly inventive with the right persuasion.”

As Annandale made his way to Craven’s chair, the duke stood and stopped him.

“Don’t try and placate me with words like ‘love’ and ‘fidelity’ when it comes to your son, Thomas. We both know that no matter how large or small his dalliances, he always goes back to the Angelus whore. Good God, man, William does not even seem to realise that most of the ton have had her, several times too.”

Annandale had to concede defeat. One could not fight the truth. He, too, knew that many of the ton had been Drusilla’s lovers yet his son had denied it all saying that it could not be as he was with his dark princess almost every night. That was one mystery Annandale had never been able to solve. How could so many men pass through Drusilla’s bedroom, yet his son be totally unaware? One day he would know the answer, but right now his son’s happiness was at stake. The man in front of him could withdraw his support at any time and that would be disastrous for William and Buffy.

“Do you still plan to support them, Henry?”

Craven could not help but laugh sneeringly at Annandale.

“So we come down to the truth now, do we Thomas? All you care about is how much longer Craven money will support your son and my daughter.” Craven turned to ring for his valet before continuing. “As long as he keeps Joyce and Dawn out of my hair I will continue to support him. Hell, he can take Xander too once he finishes with Oxford. I have had more than enough of family life Thomas, you and your son are welcome to them.”

Annandale could not believe his ears. How could this man be so callous about his family?

“Do you care nothing for them at all, Henry? Your wife is probably dying and yet you send her away?”

The truth of Annandale’s regard for his wife dawned on the duke and he smiled maliciously.

“Taken a liking to her have you, Thomas? Well I have to warn you all she will do is lie there and let you pump. She has no imagination, and will not even have the energy to buck if what you say is true. Have her with my blessing, old man. You will not enjoy the ride.”

Annandale wanted to kill this man in front of him. He wanted to kill him so much that he knew he would have to leave his chamber before he did. Before he left, he felt he had to disabuse Craven of his opinion. If he did not, he knew this man would do everything in his power to hurt Joyce.

“I have no interest in you wife, Henry, other than that of a friend. I think she needs one just now. William has taken a shine to her and is looking forward to removing her to Annandale, and I cannot say I blame him. As a dear friend of Anne, Joyce will always be a dear friend of mine. Do not try and tar me with the same brush as yourself, Henry, it will not wash.”

As his valet entered the room to help the duke dress for the ball, Annandale continued his tirade.

“This marriage will take place in two weeks, Henry. Try to keep up the pretence you care until then.”

With that parting shot, Annandale left the room to return to his own.

Chapter 47 – The Betrothal Ball



The outside of Craven House was festooned with lanterns. Carriages were lined around the square as people jostled for entrance. It had been rumoured that the Prince Regent himself would be in attendance, and whether you loved him or hated him it added to one’s countenance to be seen in his company.

The Duke and Duchess of Craven, accompanied by William and his father stood in a receiving line waiting to greet the guests. As each dignatery arrived, William was over-whelmed by just how many people answered the call of a Duke. His father lived simply and did not use his title quite as blatantly as Craven, and he was amazed at how many of the ton Craven regarded as friends.

The family stood like statues for over an hour receiving guests. For the first time Buffy appreciated just how tiresome it could be on a host when a guest was late. Etiquette demanded they stand in line until the appearance of the Prince, and she was glad when he finally made an appearance.

Once prinny was announced to the ballroom, the little family line broke up. Joyce and Dawn made their way to a sofa which had been reserved for them near a window. The idea of allowing Joyce to sit out the proceedings had come from Annandale and had been received with thanks from Joyce. He did not wish her to become unwell during the festivities.

Craven could not have cared less where his wife sat. He was too busy toadying to the Prince and his friends. Joyce could have been sitting on the moon for all he noticed or cared.

William and Buffy toured the room nodding their thanks to the congratulations heaped upon them. The ball was sure to be a resounding success and when the orchestra started to play, Buffy and William took the floor. They waltzed round the room as if they had done this all their lives. Some of the women present looked at the couple in envy at their obvious passion. The women who had lain with William knew what an excellent lover the young chit would soon have and envied her even more.

Latecomers were still arriving as William and Buffy finished their dance. Giles had been announcing new arrivals for what seemed like hours since Buffy and William had left the floor. They had gravitated towards her grace’s sofa, when Giles announced from the ballroom doors.

“Lady Drusilla Angelus”

A collective hush went around the room as the woman entered. Her reputation as a seducer of husbands was well known to the many wives in the room. Many wondered how she had procured an invitation to such a prestigious event. She had received the cut direct from the whole ton long since. Only someone mad dared to show their face in society again after such a blatant insult.

William and Buffy had been holding hands whispering to one another when Drusilla was announced. They dropped their hands and collectively turned their heads towards the entrance of the ballroom. William’s mouth had dropped in surprise, Buffy’s look of anger was visible to all in the room, Annandale was ready to kill the bitch and Craven was laughing his head off in the corner of the room.

Everyone, including the prince, watched Drusilla as she approached the betrothed couple.

Staring directly at William, she pouted. “You did not send your princess an invitation to your party, William. It was just as well that sunshine’s daddy noticed the over-sight and sent me one instead.” Drusilla turned her head in Buffy’s direction with a smile of pure malice. “Let me congratulate you on your engagement, my Lady. I am sure it will be a most interesting marriage especially when there will be three of us in it.”

Buffy was ready to kill. How dare this woman ruin her ball and how dare her father reap his revenge by inviting her. If she was ever in any doubt about her father’s feelings for her as a daughter, then there was no doubt now. The man must hate her with a passion to embarrass her in this way. To humiliate her in front of everyone including the Prince of Wales was outside of enough.

Inside her head the word ‘whore’ twirled round and round as a mantra. She would be out of London within a fortnight, what did she care what the ton thought of her actions. If there were no guests at the wedding it would not be an issue. She would marry William with only witnesses present if need be. This harlot would never have him again.

“Three of us, Lady Drusilla?” she asked sweetly. “I do not see how that can be. A marriage binds two people together for the rest of their lives. Until I bear my husband’s heir, there will be but two of us in this marriage.” She glared at Drusilla with all the fury in her heart before she continued. “Have your come here alone my Lady, or did your husband accompany you?”

Drusilla’s face clouded in fury. How dare this chit, barely out of the schoolroom, lecture her on how a marriage should be? Her marriage to Angelus was not the issue here; she had come to take William home. She needed her dark prince to act in her plays. It was no fun without him, and the new players did not know how to perform. He was devoted to her and always would be. This chit could not take him from her, she had too much light and William needed the dark.

William was frozen to the spot. He could not believe that his golden goddess was bandying words with Dru. He had heard what she had said about her invitation coming from Craven and he lifted his eyes from the two women and searched the room for him. He quickly found him in a corner laughing so hard there were tears in his eyes. At this moment, William dearly wanted to kill him.

Xander and Clem realised in the same moment that they had to get this woman out of the room. Xander knew Buffy’s temper well and he would not be surprised if she hit the woman in front of all the guests. He had to get the woman out of the mansion immediately before the walls ran with her blood. If Buffy did not kill her, then it would be William if his face gave any indication of how he was feeling. As both men made their way to the two women, Buffy’s voice resounded in the room.

“Get out of my home you twisted whore. Remove yourself from my sight before I remove you myself. You think you can walk in here and walk out with my fiancé? Well, think again. I know exactly what you are and your presence is required by no one in this room.”

Drusilla felt the hands of both Xander and Clem take her arms. She would have her revenge on Little Miss Sunshine before she left this room.

“Why Xander, how nice to see you again” she cooed at the young man. “Do you wish to accompany me home and we can talk about old times.” Turning her head towards Clem, she continued. “And Lord Telford, you have never been to one of my tea parties, I’m sure Miss Edith would like to meet you.”

William had taken all he could take; turning to his friends he spoke with venom. “Get this bitch out of here before I slap her. Make sure she realises that I never want to set eyes on her again in this lifetime or any other.” He turned angry eyes on Dru.

“You will never speak to Buffy or I again. If I see you anywhere near Buffy again, I will take matters into my own hands. You are nothing to me, Lady Drusilla, and I ask you to leave.”

Xander and Clem were dragging the woman away from the couple as she roared to the assembly.

“You will return to me William. Once you have had your taste of sunshine you will come back to the dark with me. She will never give you what you need.”

There was a collective gasp around the room as the Prince of Wales walked up to the men dragging Drusilla from the room.

“When your husband returns from Ireland, madam, I shall ensure he hears of this behaviour.”

Incensed beyond belief, Drusilla laughed in his face.

“Tell Liam all you like, George, for I will tell him how you could not get it up no matter how hard I sucked.”

No one spoke to the Prince of Wales in such a manner, whether it be private or public. This woman would rue the day she had embarrassed him in front of this amount of people.

“I do believe you to be quite mad my dear lady. I think we should send a man to Bedlam to let them know a new patient will be joining them this evening.

Drusilla started to twist and scream in the arms of the jailers. Neither Clem nor Xander loosed their hold on the woman but mania made Drusilla strong and soon she was free. She ran towards Buffy with claws outstretched ready to maim.

Buffy watched her approach dispassionately. This woman had proved herself to be mad in front of most of the ton. No one would revile her for protecting herself and the thought of hitting this woman satisfied her immensely.

She did not get the chance. William stepped in front of Buffy and caught Dru by the arms. Several of the Prince’s men stepped forward to help restrain her and soon she was carried from the room screaming William’s name.

Chapter 48 - A New Inmate



Xander, Clem and two aides of the prince fought with Drusilla all the way to the Bethlem Royal Hospital. Called Bedlam by many, the hospital had been founded in 1247 and was famous in London for its mad inmates. It relied on charity donations from members of the ton for funds, and as such many inmates came from its families. Many a raped chambermaid who spoke out against her accuser found herself within the walls, eventually driven mad by the company they kept.

It was this credo which allowed the governors of the hospital to admit the Lady Drusilla Angelus so late in the evening. An official request from the Prince of Wales himself left them in no doubt that the woman struggling with the men on the doorstep was mad. Their suspicions were confirmed when the woman spat and cursed at her escorts. Clawing at them with sharp nails and screaming for someone called William, the governors escorted their new inmate inside.

That the woman needed restrained was never in doubt. She was handed over to burly porters who lifted Drusilla from the floor and carried her to the restraining room. It took four men to hold her down as the ropes were wrapped around her. Her screaming for William could be heard throughout the halls and many inmates answered her calls by screaming in return. Gagged and tied to a cot, she was left behind a locked door.

Returning to the gentlemen in the foyer, the admissions clerk asked for some details of the new inmate. Clem stepped forward and volunteered the information. Noting the new inmate’s name and direction, the clerk added the word ‘mania’ to the admissions book. Turning to all the gentlemen present he enquired of the circumstances that had may have caused such an attack of mania.

Clem decided not to relay all that had happened that evening, but he had to say something which would allow her to stay in Bedlam.

“The lady has always been slightly touched in the head, my man. Tonight however something must have pushed her over the edge to insanity. She was found wandering around Berkeley Square screeching and calling for some ‘William’. The Prince of Wales was attending a betrothal ball at Craven House when she attacked him as he left his carriage. Luckily these gentlemen and I were able to witness the scene and removed her before she could harm the Regent.”

The clerk looked at Clem warily, “Yet you know her name and direction, my lord?” he questioned softly. “Is William the name of the Lady’s husband perchance?”

Clem smiled at the clerk before replying. “Her husband is Lord Liam Angelus and he is currently in Ireland. I will be calling at his home when I leave to inform the staff of their mistress’ direction. They will contact him and let him know the circumstances.”

Nodding his head, the clerk continued writing in the admissions book. “Do you have money to pay for her keep here, Sir? We are but a poor hospital and funds are always a problem.”

Clem could not but admire the resourcefulness of the little clerk. Reaching into his pocket, he drew forth a roll of soft. Xander followed his example as did the aides. Between them one hundred pounds was added to the Bedlam coffers.

The clerk smiled at the money, and thanked them for their generosity. Such an amount was almost unheard of, unless someone needed to be hidden. For this amount of funding the ton could hide whomever they wished. Bedlam would provide all the care Lady Drusilla required.

Lord Kirkbride, one of the aides to the prince, took the clerk aside.

“Do not display her as you do others. No matter what is wrong with her mind, she is still a Lady and I am sure you will treat her as such.”

The clerk looked at the imposing Lord for but a few seconds. Bedlam made money from displaying their inmates to the ton and the addition of one of its own would certainly improve custom. The loss of potential income to the hospital was the man’s first concern.

“We display only to ensure continued funding, my Lord. I am sure if funds were made available for her care she need not be displayed.”

Kirkbride was taken aback at the man’s attitude, but could not fault his sense of business.

“Would a sum of ten pounds per week ensure her care?”

Smiling at the Lord, the clerk replied. “It would indeed, my Lord. We like our donations prompt on a Thursday as we have viewings every Friday. I am sure you understand me, my Lord.”

“Indeed. There will be ten pounds sent every Thursday until her husband returns from Ireland. She will become his responsibility thereafter.”

“Thank you, my Lord for your kind donation to our humble hospital.”

Weasel, thought Kirkbride, but it was the best option open to all of them.

Xander, desperate to leave, spoke to the assembled group. “I think our business is done here, gentlemen. I am anxious to return to my sister and we have been detained long enough.” Turning to the clerk, Xander thanked him profusely before the little group left.

Once inside the carriage, Kirkbride spoke.

“What the fuck was the woman thinking to speak to prinny like that? My God, she was lucky he didn’t have her marched to the tower for her mouth. She has always been a menace and should have been in Bedlam years ago.”

Clem could do nothing but agree. “William finished with her when he met Buffy. She has not taken it well.”

Kirkbride laughed. “Now there is an understatement if ever I heard one. Christ Almighty, he has been her fucking lapdog for years. There was talk in the ton that he would still see her once he married the Summers chit.”

Xander bristled in the corner of the carriage. “The Summers chit happens to be my sister, Kirkbride, and I will not have her maligned in public.”

“Calm down, Xander.” Kirkbride soothed. “It is a testament to her charms that she managed to woo William from the termagant. I meant no offence, in fact I wish to compliment. The marriage is clearly a love match and I wish them happy.”

Sitting back in the squabs, Xander pushed down his irritation at Kirkbride. Had he, himself, not accused Whitmore of the very same thing at the beginning of the engagement? He could not lambaste other members of the ton for thinking along the same lines.

“Angelus will not take this well.” Clem commented to the assembled group. “The man has a vicious streak a mile wide. Luckily it will take some time for word to reach him of Drusilla’s admittance to Bedlam. Let’s hope William and Buffy are long gone from London before his return.”

General murmurs of agreement resounded in the carriage.



Drusilla lay in her small room tied to her cot. She did not mind the bindings as they reminded her of what Liam did to her when she was bad. The uncomfortable part was the gag in her mouth. She could not tell her new friends her pretty stories, or talk to Miss Edith, when they had put the cloth between her teeth.

Liam would come for her soon. Word had reached her before she left tonight that he would soon be with her. He wanted to go and see her William marry in the big church, and she would get to play with him again.

Thoughts of William and his rejection of her flew into her mind. He did not mean it; he had only said those bad things to stop sunshine from hitting her.

Bad, naughty sunshine. She needed a lesson. Daddy was very good at giving lessons. He would give sunshine a lesson she would never forget.

Chapter 49 Back to the Ball




The four men returned to Craven House in a sombre mood. None felt guilt over the incarceration of Drusilla, in fact in Clem’s mind all he felt was relief. If William had really wanted Drusilla, he would have left with her then. His main concern was the return of Angelus. When the men had informed the servants where their mistress was, they had been told that they expected their master back within the week.

Clem wondered if there was any way that William and Buffy would bring forward their wedding and get out of London before the bastard’s return. It would be well nigh impossible considering the status of both families. If they brought the wedding forward the tabbies would be counting the months till the birth of the first child. The couple would never be able to show their face in London again.

As the foursome entered the ballroom the first thing they noticed was the gaiety. Obviously the incident had been put down to a mad woman’s ramblings and with prinny present the mood had become jovial again. Noticing Kirkbride whispering in prinny’s ear, he could imagine the success of their task was relayed in all its detail. He would have to catch William up on events later.

Spying William and Buffy waltzing round the room, he smiled. His friend was looking at Buffy as if she was the most precious thing on earth and it gladdened his heart. He knew that both Annandale and William had been living at Craven House for over a week, and it was clear in that time William had fallen in deeply in love.

Neither Buffy nor William noticed the return of the men. They were so wrapped up in one another that it was plain to everyone that nothing mattered but them. They whispered softly to one another on the dance floor and more than one matron fanned themselves at the sight. A love match in the ton was so rare, it was startling to see.

Annandale, Clem noticed, was standing not far from her grace. Every so often his gaze would linger on the duchess and small smile seemed to form on his lips. Clem wondered just how much had transpired in his absence.

Finally the waltz ended and William and Buffy returned to their place beside the duchess. Clem walked casually through the throng until he was at their side. A scowl passed over William’s face, and Clem wondered at the cause. Surely he had not been wrong in removing Drusilla from the ball. Even William would not go up against the Prince of Wales.

“Clem, I think you and I should talk.”

Lifting one eyebrow sardonically as he surveyed his friend, he replied “Indeed, Will. And I think now may be a good time. They have just called for supper and we can retire to Craven’s Library for a few minutes.”

William turned to Buffy and smiled. “Would you like to join my father and your mother for supper, kitten?”

Smiling back at William, Buffy left him in no doubt that supper was not an option. “No, William, I think not. I would prefer to join you and Clem in the library.”

Taking his defeat on the chin and unable to refuse any request she may make of him, he nodded his head. William placed Buffy’s arm through his and with Clem on her other side, all three left the room.

As they made their way through the ballroom, the Prince of Wales stopped them.

“Telford, I wish to thank you for your assistance with that distressing incident earlier this evening. I will not forget your fortitude nor your command of the situation. I would like you to call at Clarence House this Tuesday at 3 of the clock and we will discuss matters more fully.”

Clem, shocked by the approach of the Prince, stammered his reply. “I would be honoured to attend on Tuesday, Sir.”

“Good, good. See you then Telford.”

William grinned at Clem. “You are going to be rubbing shoulders with the cream of the ton now, Clem. Prinny has taken a shine to you and you know how fickle he can be.”

Clem’s face had turned bright red at both the compliment from the Prince and William’s jest. He could hardly wait to be behind the library doors and away from the questioning looks from the guests. William preferred to saunter through the crowd chatting with well-wishers and Clem’s irritation was steadily growing.

Buffy decided enough was enough. She was desperate for news of Drusilla’s direction and she knew that Clem had all the answers. While William was chatting away to an elderly dowager, Buffy discreetly dropped her hand to his bottom and gave it a sharp nip.

William jumped in surprise and smiled down at his fiancé as he lifted her arm through his once more. Taking leave of the dowager the three made their way to the library. William could not help but tease Buffy for her attack and whispered in her ear.

“You are going to kiss that better when I get you alone, sweetheart.”

“Indeed, my lord?” she smiled at him and squeezed his arm tighter. “I believe I may be too tired to leave my bed this evening.”

He could take her teasing no more. Quickly looking round to check they would not be disturbed, William urged Clem to enter the library alone. “Go in, Clem, and pour us both a good brandy. I believe we are both in need of it. Buffy and I need a few minutes.”

Clem was none too pleased. He wanted to speak to William and leave this infernal ball. He wanted home to Faith. Once he had told William of Angelus’ return his work was done and William could face his demons on his own. He wanted no more of this.

William watched the library doors close and he wrapped his arms around Buffy.

“I have not seen you properly in a week, sweetheart.” He said as he peppered her face in kisses. “I need you, darling. I need to hold you skin to skin. I love you, Buffy.”

No matter how many times Spike told her of his love, she still held something back. Why could she not trust this man who would do anything for her? She was still determined to stay a virgin which was why she had not been back to his bed. A little of Spike’s lovemaking and she became a wanton slut crying out for him to take her.

Finally William placed his mouth over hers and darted his tongue inside. She was lost. Without a doubt she would be in his bed tonight and she was just as sure that she would leave a virgin. Remembering their last encounter and how much she enjoyed it, she smiled and whispered in his ear.

“I think I might need another shave, Spike. I have an itch down there that only you can scratch.”

William’s reaction was immediate and predictable. Grabbing Buffy around the hips, he smashed his mouth into hers as he ground his rock hard length against her. When breathing became an issue, William backed away from Buffy and stared with pure lust into her eyes.

“If you do not come to my room tonight, kitten, I swear I will come to yours.”

Smiling up at him, Buffy nodded her head. “I will come to you, Spike. One hour after we are all abed.”

He held her tightly as he whispered in her ear. “I will be waiting, sweetling.” Kissing the shell of her ear, he let his arms fall to his sides. “Come on, Buffy, if we don’t let Clem go home to Faith soon he will kill both of us.” Reminding herself to ask about Faith another time, Buffy and William entered the library.

Clem was fit to be tied by the time they both appeared. He had done them a great service this evening and they were too wrapped up in each other to care. He had a woman at home who worried for him and loved him and he needed to be with her now.

Furious at waiting this amount of time considering the things he had done for them this evening, he shouted at William as he closed the library door.

“Where the fuck have you been, Will? I’ve been waiting here for ten minutes on you both. I have a life outside the Craven Annandale romance and I want to get back to it.”

William stared at his friend. Clem was indeed upset and William realised that he had taken his deliberate teasing of his friend too far.

“I’m sorry, Clem. Let’s get this over with. Where is she?”

Clem groaned, “Will, did you not hear the Prince? Where do you think we took her?”

William’s eyes widened “You really did take her to Bedlam?”

“Of course we took her to Bedlam.” Clem was almost shouting in his anger. “When the Prince of Wales tells you and his aides to take her there, then that is where she goes.”

Buffy looked at both Clem and William. How William reacted would tell her more about how he felt about her than any words.

After a few seconds, he looked at his friend and nodded his head. “To be honest, Clem, when I think about her actions over the years she should have been in there long since.”

Clem heaved a sigh of relief. Although he had seen William’s reaction with his own eyes to Drusilla’s taunts, his calm acceptance of her fate appeased his guilt.

Sighing, Clem decided to tell the rest “We went to the Angelus mansion to let the servants know where she is.” William nodded his head in agreement. “They told us that Angelus is due home within the week, Will. He is not going to be too pleased when he finds the Prince of Wales shut his wife in Bedlam.”

William shrugged. “From what I know of the man, Clem, I don’t really think he will care. He was only home for one month of the year and during that time he stayed at home.”

Clem did not want to tell William how Angelus spent his month at home. He would keep Faith’s secret, but he still had to warn his friend.

“You only know what Dru told you, Will. The man is an evil bastard and there is no telling what he will do when he finds her in Bedlam.”

William smiled. “All will be fine, Clem. If he cared that much for her, he would not leave her alone so long in the year.”

“Agreed, Will” Clem smiled at his friend. “But I think we should make it our business to find out why he leaves her so long.”

Deciding to take the bull by the horns, Clem continued. “The man is ruthless in revenge. I think he will take it out on you as he won’t be able to get near the Prince. Prinny has already intimated that he wants to speak to Angelus on his return, and I doubt he will want to discuss the price of potatoes.”

Walking closer to an open-mouthed William, Clem imparted more. “If I were you, Will, I would marry by special licence tomorrow and get up to Annandale before the man returns. After the display you both put on tonight, there can be no doubt in the ton’s eyes that this is a love match. All people would say is that they saw it coming. Please Will. You have to get Buffy and her family away from that sadistic bastard.”

William’s pride would not let him take the easy way out. “I refuse to hide from Angelus, Clem. Buffy and I will walk down the aisle of St Paul’s like the future Duke and Duchess we are. Fuck him, Clem. I will not bow down to that piece of shit.”

Buffy, who had watched their interplay with interest, walked up to Clem. “I agree with William, Clem. We will not back down from an Irish peasant farmer such as Angelus.”

Clem stared at them both and shook his head. “So be it. I will interfere no more. I suggest you both return to the ballroom before you are missed.”

As he walked to the door, Clem looked at them both over his shoulder. “Find out from your father why he invited her here in the first place, Buffy, he must have his reasons.”

“I do not need to ask him, Clem. I know exactly why he invited her. He wants William and I to have a bad marriage and he is losing his fight to ensure it. I do not need to speak to him until the wedding and I have no intention of speaking to him tonight.”

She disengaged herself from William’s side and walked up to Clem and took his hand. She raised it to her cheek and smiled at him.

“You are a good and loyal friend, Clem.” She pleaded with her eyes. “Do not desert us now”

Clem smiled down at the diminutive blonde.

“I will always be a friend to you and William, Buffy. Of that there is no doubt.”

“Thank you, Clem. After all the words we have heard tonight blessing our union, you are one of the few I trust to tell me the truth. “

William walked up to Clem and shook his hand.

“You have been gone from Faith for some time, Clem. Come and see us when you are free.”

He turned from the couple and made for the door.

“Give me a few days, Will, and I will send word when to expect me.”

“Thank you, Clem. I cannot ask for more.”

Smiling at the couple, Clem made for home.

Chapter 50 The Prince’s Command

AN* Reviews are wonderful – thank you. For all the people who have e-mailed me directly, thank you. You have all become friends.




William and Buffy stayed in the foyer until Clem left. They knew they had to return to the ballroom, but neither felt the inclination.

“Come on, kitten.” William smiled down at Buffy. “We need to go back.”

Buffy sighed and lifted her eyes to his. “I know, Spike, but I just don’t want to.”

William laughed. “I know, sweeting, but if the Prince wants to go he will have to speak to us first.” He looked in all serious at her. “He did us the honour of coming, Buffy, and he got rid of a big problem for us.”

Bristling slightly, Buffy questioned. “He did not get rid of a problem, Spike. He merely put her where she belonged. You assured me she was of no consequence to you any more; therefore she was of no consequence to me.” She smiled at him and put her arm through his. “I do not really care if she lives in her own home or in Bedlam. She was already out of our lives.”

Pulling her arm from his, he stepped in front of her. He placed his hands on her shoulders and drew her to him. Dropping his lips to her ear, he whispered.

“Do you believe, now, that I love you Buffy?” he asked earnestly. He moved his head and stared down into her eyes.

His eyes seemed to hold hers and she was drawn into their ocean blue depths. She wondered how she would answer him when she still had every intention of annulling the marriage.

Panic set in on William when she did not answer immediately. He could not understand how he had not shown in actions and words how much he cared for her.

“Yes, Spike.” She finally replied. “I believe you love me.”

Relief such as he had never felt before swept through him. He could not seem to stop himself; he drew her to him and kissed her softly on the lips.

“Thank you, Buffy” he murmured against her cheek. “That you believe me means more to me than anything in the world.”

Buffy held him close for a moment and revelled in the smell of his skin.

“Let’s go back, Spike, before they come looking for us.”

He smiled his agreement and nodded his head.

It took a few moments for him to realise that she had not said “I love you” in reply to his declaration.



Arm in arm, Buffy and William entered the ballroom. They slowly made their way to Lady Joyce’s seat, taking in more congratulations on the way.

Eventually they drew even with the Prince of Wales. Buffy curtseyed deeply, and William took his bow.

“It has indeed been a pleasure, your highness that you deigned to join our party this evening.” William told him

Prinny smiled in reply.

“It has been a pleasure, Whitmore. May I congratulate you on such a lovely bride?”

Buffy beamed at the Prince, and dropped a smaller curtsey. Women did not address the Prince of Wales unless he spoke to them direct.

“She is indeed a beauty, Whitmore.” Turning to Buffy, he smiled kindly at her before he spoke.

“You handled yourself with pride tonight, my dear. Never let it be said that you lack courage.”

Surprised that the Prince had spoken to her at all, she smiled shyly before replying.

“I believe, sir, that one must show compassion to those who are touched in the head.” Noticing prinny’s approving smile, she continued. “It was obvious that her mind had gone to speak so of the company here this evening. I am sure she will be most comfortable in her new home.”

Prince George smiled his approval at her reply. She had said just the right thing to appease the insult Drusilla had afforded on him.

“Indeed, ma’am. I will be speaking to her husband on his return to ensure she receives adequate care.”

Buffy’s smile beamed over her face.

“I believe, your highness, that you have shown great wisdom in handling such as she.”

Never one to ignore a compliment, the Prince replied. “I did, did I not? Yes,” he agreed with himself. “The whole was handled very well indeed.”

Turning his attention to William, he asked “Whitmore, may I have a word in private?”

Buffy knew William could not turn down such a request. She was desperate to accompany them, but knew she would be excluded.

“I shall return to my mother, William.” She told the assembled company. “You will find me there on your return.”

Lifting her hand to his lips, he kissed her fingers. “I will return as soon as I can, kitten. I cannot refuse my Regent.”

Nodding her acceptance Buffy removed her hand and made her way to the other side of the ballroom where her mother sat.



The Prince Regent did not want to speak to William alone; he wanted to speak to William and Craven together. His aides had informed Craven of the Regent’s request and it was evident that Craven did not wish to anger him. From across the ballroom the duke walked up to the two men, and bowed low in front of the Prince.

“Do you have a quiet room in this mansion of yours, Henry?” Prinny asked sweetly.

Craven’s face was brick red. He had invited the Prince as a matter of courtesy truly not thinking he would make an appearance. Drusilla had been invited to start trouble between William and Buffy. She had managed to do that, but he would have preferred she had not made the scene she did. He had found it very amusing at first, but when she attacked the manhood of the Prince of Wales she had almost signed her own death warrant.

Telling the room that he had invited her to attend would not go down well with the Prince. He was not sure exactly why he had been summoned for an almost private audience. Drusilla’s invitation was sure to be discussed. A feeling of dread came over him.

As Craven led the Prince’s small party and William to the library, his feeling of unease grew. He had not seen Buffy and William for over a week and had not realised that very deep feelings had developed between the couple. Drusilla had been invited to lure William away from Buffy. She had assured Craven that this would be easily done; she was wrong. His plans had misfired badly and he did not know how to extricate himself.

The Prince asked for the door to be locked behind them and one of his aides completed the task. Prinny gestured for the assembled men to sit while he stood in front of the fireplace to address them.

“Craven, did you invite that crazy hell-bitch to your ball?”

The Duke reddened once more. He would not be able to lie to the Prince as all guests had been allowed entry only on the production of their invite.

“Yes, your Highness. I did indeed invite her.”

Prinny looked down his nose at the Duke. His look of disgust evident to all assembled in the room.

“May I ask why?” The prince’s voiced was low and deadly.

Craven tried to think quickly. What possible excuse could he come up with to justify what he had done? He could think of none that would satisfy the Prince.

Prinny waited and waited. Craven still did not reply.

“Did you hope to break up your daughter’s engagement, perhaps?” asked the Prince. “If you wished to do that, Craven” prinny sneered at him before he continued, “all you had to do was send a notice to the papers.”

The Duke continued to stare at the Prince in consternation. What could he say about his motives that would not cause the House of Craven to be out of favour with the future King? Sweat appeared on his brow and he felt as if he would faint.

Prinny just shook his head at the stricken Duke.

“I have a solution that may suit all, Craven.”

Craven tried to smile, but fear held his lips still.

The Prince smiled at Craven as he set out his command, “I am sure it has been some time since you visited your ancestral home, Henry. Maybe it is time you visited and lived there for some time.” An unholy look of glee lit up prinny’s face as the idea formed in his mind. “I suggest that your estate needs some attention which keeps you in the country for,” the Prince paused in contemplation and the tension increased in Craven, “let’s say a year…..or so.”

Baulking at the Prince’s command, Craven started to stutter.

“A YEAR!” he exclaimed loudly.

“Or so,” replied the Prince with a smile on his face.

Craven immediately saw a way out. “My daughter is to be married in two weeks, sir. I need to be here to give her away.”

After sneering at Craven for a few moments, the Prince turned his attention to William.

“Do you think your bride would object to Lord Telford escorting her up the aisle, Whitmore?”

William smiled at the Prince and bowed his head. “I do believe that she would welcome Telford as her escort, sir.”

“As I thought, Whitmore.” Prinny’s smile encompassed the room. “Kirkbride here will happily stand as your groomsman in Telford’s stead.” Turning to Lord Kirkbride, prinny enquired. “Would you have any objection, Kirkbride?”

Lord Kirkbride smiled at the Prince before he replied. “It would be my pleasure, sir.”

The Prince nodded his head. “Thought it might, Kirkbride.”

“Now that we have established the new arrangements for the wedding, we are almost finished here.” The Prince continued to look at Craven as he continued. “I want you to hand the dowry to Kirkbride, tomorrow. It will be passed to Whitmore on the day of the wedding. I will not allow you to renege on any contract that may have been signed.” Turning to William, the Prince asked. “Is that acceptable to you, Whitmore?”

William had worried about the issue of the dowry when the Prince had laid down his ultimatum to Craven. He was sure the man would stop the dowry in revenge and he was sure Buffy would not marry him without her twenty five thousand.

“The arrangement you suggest, sir, would be most acceptable to me.”

The Prince appeared pleased with his idea. “I expect you to leave London tomorrow, Craven once you have transferred to dower to Kirkbride.”

There was nothing else Craven could do but agree. The man was the greatest power in the country; he could not go against him. He had no choice but to obey.

“I believe I will be available to Kirkbride at two of the clock tomorrow.” Craven bravely said. His bravado was all he had left.

Lord Kirkbride looked at Craven with contempt. “I will be here at that time you suggest, Craven. I will not be late.” Kirkbride turned his gaze to William. “I would like you here to witness the transaction, Whitmore. I will prepare a receipt which will be held by the Prince for safe-keeping till the wedding.”

Pleased with the idea that he would be part of the arrangement, the Prince agreed wholeheartedly and decided he would accompany Lord Kirkbride in his task. “Call at Clarence House at one, Kirkbride, and we shall come together.”

“Indeed, sir, I shall be most prompt,” replied Kirkbride.

Turning to William, the Prince nodded his dismissal. “Go back to your fiancé, William. We will meet again on the morrow.”

William smiled at the Prince and bowed his head in acquiescence.

He was more than happy to return to Buffy. They had much to discuss.

Chapter 51 The end of an era


Reviews are wonderful and to all who take the time to write, I thank you. For those who e-mail me direct, it is wonderful to hear from you.




Buffy could hardly contain her curiosity over the events in the library. She stood at her mother’s side and watched the ballroom doors for any sign of William or her father. They had been gone some time and many whispered conversations were being held behind the fluttering fans of the ladies.

Holding her head high, Buffy waited. The men had been gone for more than thirty minutes and she was now officially worried. The Prince of Wales was widely known to hold grudges for years and if he afforded the cut direct, it was the end of that person in society. Everyone in the room had heard Drusilla say that her father had invited her to the ball and Prinny would never forgive him for the insult he had received this night.

She thought she would not care, but deep down she did. Until recently she had loved her father very much and it had shocked her to the core that he had conspired to treat her as he had. It had surprised her to hear from his own lips how much he wanted to distance himself from a family who loved him.

Eventually the ballroom doors opened for the entry of the Prince followed by his aides, William and her father. William was smiling from ear to ear as he caught her eye. She smiled at him in return, not realising half the ton noticed the interaction between the couple. There was no doubt in anyone’s mind that Lord William Whitmore, heir to the Duke of Annandale, had finally found his match.

Lady Joyce stared at her husband as he entered the room. His face looked ravaged and she wondered how the Prince had reaped his revenge. She had loved this man for over half her life and it was not easy to ignore the feelings she held inside. However there was nothing as precious to her as her children, and he had hurt them deeply. Dawn as yet did not understand the hurt her father was about to bestow, and she hoped Buffy and Xander would shield her from the worst of the ton’s derision. It was good that the family would be removing to William’s home soon.

Annandale could feel Joyce’s distress. He stood behind her and slightly to her right. His hand itched to lie on her shoulder to give comfort, but it was a gesture he could not use in front of the ton. This graceful woman had caught his heart in the past week and he longed to spend more time with her. He was considering following her little family to Annandale after the marriage.

Craven drew up in front of Joyce and nodded. When he asked her to accompany him out of the room for a moment, Annandale used all his will-power not to follow. His son was talking in hushed tones to Buffy who was nodding her understanding. He sincerely hoped his son was not discussing what had happened when they had left the room; there were two many ears surrounding them.

William was whispering to Buffy that she need not worry and he would explain all in more detail later. He, like his father, realised that too many people were curious to know what had happened during their absence and he did not wish the details to be known outside the family just yet. When Craven removed himself to the country, the ton would come to its own conclusion. Whatever scenario the ton decided to place on his departure was none of his concern.

Xander, standing at Buffy’s side, was almost dancing from foot to foot in curiosity. His love, Lady Cordelia Chase, stood at his side chaperoned by her mother. Although many did not consider him to have much sense, Xander realised that family matters must stay within the family.

William turned and smiled at Xander. When he gave an almost imperceptible nod in his direction, Xander realised things were not as black as he believed. His sigh of relief was noticeable to William and his smile grew in response. William doubted that Xander’s prospects with the Chase chit would be damaged by tonight’s proceedings. After all, Xander would one day be a duke. A lot of scandal could be forgotten when a dukedom was on the marriage mart.

****

Craven drew Joyce into the library, the scene of his humiliation at the hands of the Prince of Wales. The one thing he had enjoyed about his marriage was the fact the Joyce had been so biddable to his wishes. She would know the truth by the end of the evening due to Whitmore’s presence at his humiliation.

“I am heading for Craven Hall tomorrow, Joyce.”

Expecting his wife to ask questions, he was surprised when she stood silent at his declaration. There was nothing he could do but tell her of the Prince’s ‘command’. When he outlined the Prince’s plans for the wedding, Joyce said nothing

Joyce continued to look at her husband with no emotion on her face. Craven could take her silence no longer, he had spoken at length for over twenty minutes and throughout that time she had said nothing. His temper rose at her lack of emotion.

“Have you no comment to make, Joyce? Or will you continue to stand there like a statue? My god, no wonder I hardly shared your bed, you never moved between the sheets either.”

Turning bright red in the face, Joyce’s temper snapped. Over twenty five years of frustration was pent up inside her and this was the opportunity to let it all out.

“Why, you absolute bastard of a husband. For over twenty five years you have used my money for your own ends while you used me as your brood mare. I have never even had your respect in all that time, have I Henry? You married me for money and thought to push Buffy down the same path. You reeled William in using the trust my family set up for my children. Did you tell him that you were handing him her dower and her yearly portion from your own funds?”

Craven could not look at her in the face. She had deduced his actions in arranging this marriage and he was not happy at being caught out. His embarrassment pushed him into attack.

“Do you think anything else would have made him even consider her? You know Annandale and I had planned this marriage almost from her birth. By the time she was of age to marry, he was so far down the road of debauchery only the promise of money would bring him to heel.”

Joyce shook her head at her husband and laughed. Wiping the tears from her eyes with her hand she thought it was time he heard some truths.

“Henry, this is the best match that I have ever seen in ton circles. He adores her with his whole being. I have talked to him at length over the last week and he would do anything for her. Buffy may not yet be sure of her own heart, but I am sure that she will love him the way her loves her very soon. He discarded his mistress in front of three hundred people and his Regent for her, Henry, there is nothing you can do now to stop this match.”

She looked with scorn at her husband before she continued.

“The best part of this marriage is your insistence they move to the Annandale estate. I will be happy to join them and it will be a wonderful place to bring up Dawn. I do not need you any more, Henry, and the quicker you are out of our lives the better.”

Craven stared back at his wife, she had never spoken to him like this in all their time together.

He continued to stare as she continued.

“I am happy with the wedding arrangements the Prince has decided upon, Henry. After tonight I hope to never see you in my life again. We cannot divorce as there is no cause on my side and there never will be. I absolve you of all guilt for the women you have bedded over the duration of our marriage, and wish you happiness at Craven Hall.”

She walked past him to the library door. As she turned the handle she looked back at him and shook her head.

“I might have made you a good wife if you had loved me, Henry. ‘Tis a pity you did not even try. I wish you well and trust we never meet again.”

Tears came unbidden to her eyes as she closed the door behind her. It had taken every ounce of strength she had not to cry on front of Henry. She had managed to keep her dignity, but her marriage was finished.

Chapter 52 Too late at night

AN* Thanks again for all the reviews – they truly make my day.






It was after three in the morning before the last of the guests took their leave. Once prinny had gone, it was like a mass exodus. The Craven engagement ball would be talked about in the drawing rooms of the ton for weeks to come. The entertainment had been most enlightening. William wanted them all gone as he really needed to talk to Buffy alone.

He had taken Xander into the library earlier in the evening to bring him up to date. Shocked and stunned at what the Prince had demanded of his father, Xander wondered how long he would have to accompany him at Craven Hall. William doused his fears by informing him it would be better if he stayed in London and distance himself from his father.

“Give Buffy and I a few weeks to settle into Annandale, Xander, and then follow us north for a few weeks shooting.” William smiled at the stricken young man. “Clem has told me of your talent with construction management, surely you would like to see the progress that has been made in your absence.”

Nodding his agreement at William’s plan, he smiled back at him. “Yes, that is indeed a good idea. It will give me time to see if the events of tonight have caused problems with my courtship of Cordelia.”

William laughed at the look of despair on Xander’s face.

“You are the son of a Duke, Xander, and your prospects are to be a Duke. I can assure you that there will be no impediment from tonight’s actions to your courtship.” William lowered his voice before he continued. “You do have a mistress do you not, Xander?”

Slightly red-faced at such a direct question, Xander nodded his head. He did not wish to discuss Anya’s many charms with William. Xander was still half convinced that William would continue to be the rake and libertine he had always been once the marriage had taken place. Anya was his and he had no intention of sharing her, especially with his future brother-in-law. After all if William no longer had Dru and Buffy was unavailable to him till the wedding, the man would need release somewhere.

William laughed silently to himself. He could almost read Xander’s mind. He quickly assured the young man that he could calm his urges for a few more weeks. There was no need for him to visit a whore, especially one that appeared to be important to Xander. He did not add that Buffy would visit him tonight and they would most definitely have a play-time. Buffy had teased him mercifully both on and off the dance floor. She would pay for that when he got her alone and naked. He could hardly wait.


Buffy accompanied her mother to her room. Annandale followed closely behind. He had been concerned all evening with Joyce’s health and had noticed how pale she had been when she returned from her talk with Craven. The man was cruel beyond belief and although he may not have struck Joyce, Annandale was convinced he had hurt her with savage words. He longed to comfort her, hold her and if truth be known, take her to bed.

Annandale said good night to the ladies as he passed them on his way to his own room. He would sleep well tonight knowing that Craven had already left the house. He was sure to take his temper out on his mistress and of that Annandale was glad. If the woman enjoyed the pain Craven dealt, she was as bad as he.


As soon as Xander had left to visit Anya, William hurried to his room. He was determined to be prepared for Buffy’s visit. It had been more than a week since they had been together and his anticipation was rife. He realised how much he had missed just holding her as she slept safe in her arms. Deciding that if all she wanted tonight was to be held, he would do that with pleasure, as long as she was naked. Naked Buffy was a wonderful thing to hold.

It was almost four in the morning before Buffy knocked softly on his room door and entered. As she walked into the candlelit room and closed the door behind her, she noticed William was sitting up in bed with the covers drawn up over his legs and hips. His naked torso almost glowed in the candlelight and she smiled at him from the other side of the room.

Instinctively William knew that she wanted to talk. He beckoned her to his side and held out his arms to allow her to snuggle in beside him. Surprised that she lay on top of the covers, he decided he would not comment and let her start the conversation.

She lay spooned to his side with her head on his shoulder. Her arm was wrapped around his chest and one leg was placed over his. William’s arms wrapped around her and he kissed the top of her head. They lay cuddling for a few minutes; the only sound in the room being the crackle of the fire and the ticking of the mantle clock.

“I cannot stay long, Spike” she whispered against his chest. “The servants will be up and about in but a few hours and I should be back in my own bed by then.”

William hugged her closer. He knew she spoke the truth, but he would have given his soul for her to stay beside him tonight. When it came to Buffy’s feelings he was determined to play the gentleman.

“What happened tonight, Spike, and where is my father going? I noticed Giles and papa’s valet clearing out his room as I passed.”

With great care, William recounted the events in the library. He went over in great detail how the Prince had arranged for the dowry to be passed to Lord Kirkbride and had suggested that Clem walk her down the aisle. Feeling Buffy nod against his chest, he was pleased she was happy with the new arrangements. When it came to discussing where Drusilla now slept, he could feel her stiffen slightly in his arms.

Gently he pushed her away from him. He wanted her under the covers beside him before they discussed anything else. Buffy realised his intent and quickly moved under the covers beside him. After a few moments settling back into a comfortable position, William continued to tell her about the Drusilla’s fate.

The return of Angelus was not mentioned. Buffy did not know the reputation of the man and William was convinced that Liam would have no interest in them. He put the warnings from Clem to the back of his mind and snuggled closer to his love.

Buffy lifted her head from his shoulder and caught his eyes in the candlelight. There were some questions she needed answers to and they were all about Drusilla. She wondered to herself if he was holding her in bed now, only because he could not have his whore.

“Spike,” she asked in a soft voice. “Do you still have feelings for Drusilla?”

William thought carefully before he answered. “I was with her ten years, Buffy, and it’s hard to turn off the strong feelings I had for her.”

Buffy started to pull away from his hold but he kept his arms closed around her. Looking deep into her eyes he continued. He wanted her to see the depth of feeling he held for her now.

“I thought our love was eternal, kitten. I believed I could love no one but her, yet when I saw her tonight all I thought was; why had I stayed at her beck and call for so long. She is nowhere near as beautiful as you, nor does she have your wonderful ways.” He leaned down and kissed her gently on the lips before continuing. “She never showed me the love you do, nor make me feel as though I am the luckiest man in the world.”

He pulled her further into his embrace, lifting her leg over his. As he continued to speak he held tightly to her hand and drew it over his heart.

“Two weeks ago, Buffy, I would have walked out of the ballroom at her side not caring whom I hurt. Tonight I wanted her out of my sight and I did not care where she went. For her to hurt you as she did tonight, I will never forgive her, and I hope you believe me when I tell you that I will never see her again.”

Buffy’s eyes had never left his in all the time he had spoken. She could see the sincerity with which he spoke, yet she still did not truly believe he loved her as much as he claimed. When he held her like this and spoke to her she wanted so much to show her love, yet she still held back. She had been hurt so much by the actions of her father in the last few weeks and she was scared to be hurt again.

William could read her face so well. She still did not trust his word, and he could not blame her. He had maybe been too honest with her, but he felt she had the right to know how he felt. Dropping further down the bed and rolling slightly so that they faced each other, William declared himself.

“I love you, Buffy. I will always love you. You are my light and my life and I will do anything to protect you.”

Staring back into his eyes she wished she could return the sentiments. They had been in this situation before where he had declared himself as if expecting her to return the favour. She was sure in her heart that she did love him, but she was still just that little bit scared.

“You are in my heart, Spike, but that is as much as I can tell you. I believe you when you say you love me, but I still have reservations. Please be patient with me. One day I might say the words back, as I have no intention of saying them unless I mean them.”

William smiled at her before laying another gentle kiss on her lips.

“At least I have my crumb, sweetheart. I ask for nothing more.”

Wrapping her arms tightly around his neck, she placed a gentle kiss on his lips. Within moments the kiss deepened and they drew even closer together. For the first time since entering the room, Buffy noticed that William was naked beneath the coverlet. She was clothed in a nightrail and dressing gown and could feel the heat of his erection against her leg.

William lifted his mouth from hers and slowly traced a path to her neck. He nipped and suckled at her pulse point until she was wriggling against him. When she lifted her leg over his, he could feel her heat against his dick. His hand immediately went down to her thigh and lifted her leg higher so he could rock against her. Continuing his assault on her neck for a few moments more, he slowly made his way down to her breast and sucked her through her clothes.

Buffy’s head was thrown back in want, and she was making those delicious little sounds she made when she needed to come.

William was desperate to be inside her. He moved his mouth back to her ear and whispered.

“Buffy, sweetheart, let me in. We are only two weeks from the wedding, no one will know. Please, darling, I need to be inside you. Love you, kitten, so much.”

Reality hit Buffy with a jolt. She would not be able to resist him much longer. Her resolve was almost at an end when he held her like this and kissed her into oblivion. As she was contemplating how to stop him, his fingers brushed over her clit and moved to enter her. Slowly he pumped one finger inside her and as her need covered his hand, he carefully inserted another. In and out in a steady rhythm he moved, occasionally brushing her clit. It was enough to drive her mad with want, but not enough to satisfy her.

“I….can’t….Spike.” she stammered. “Wedding night…..must keep…AHHHHH…pure.”

William knew that he was winning this battle. He decided that he would leave her frustrated tonight. When he finally took her he wanted there to be plenty of time to do everything he ever dreamed of doing to his golden goddess. They were lucky if they had one hour before the servants were up and about.

It was the hardest thing he had ever had to do, but William withdrew his hands from her. He could not resist a taste and pulled each finger into his mouth and sucked. Almost laughing at the pouting expression on her face, he leaned down and kissed her passionately.

“Come on, my love, I will take you back to your room.”

Buffy was still pouting at him. “You could at least make sure I get some pleasure, Spike. I promise I would do the same for you.”

As quick as a flash he had rolled her over and was lying on top of her.

“Don’t Buffy. Don’t tease me like this. I love you and I want to make love to you. If you want to stay pure then you have to leave now. I don’t think I could stop myself if you stay here much longer.”

She grinned up at him. “We could do what we did before, Spike. I know you liked it.”

William let his body drop on top of hers and his groan rumbled into her neck.

“I don’t want to be anywhere but your cunt, luv. I want to make you mine forever.”

Lifting himself from her, he left the bed. Holding his hand out to her, he bid her join him.

“Come on, sweetling; let’s get you back to your room.”

Buffy grinned as she looked down at William’s erection; it was weeping so much that some pre-cum had fallen to the carpet.

“You can’t go through the halls with that.” She laughed as she pointed to his dick.

William looked down and grinned back at her.

“I think you better get back to your room on your own tonight, kitten. I have something I really need to take of.”

Laughing hard at his predicament, Buffy agreed. She pulled his head down for a chaste kiss and whispered how she would see him at breakfast.

William loved her laughter and was glad to be the cause, but if she did not leave soon he would return to being the rake he used to be and flatten her to the bed for a sennight.

“Go, please, Buffy” he begged “Before I forget my promise to leave you pure”

Buffy smiled at him as she made her way through the door.

Chapter 53 For the love of Joyce.


AN* Please keep reviewing. I will bring Angelus in to the mix soon.


Joyce rose from her bed almost before the dawn. She was restless and concerned. Worried that Henry would try and stop the marriage, she wondered what she could do. Although most of the house was asleep, Joyce felt she needed to talk to someone. The only person under her roof who understood her husband as well as she, was Annandale.

Taking her courage in both hands, she wrapped her dressing gown tightly around her body and made her way to Annandale’s room. As she passed William’s bedroom she could hear muffled voices and she was sure one of them was Buffy. Shrugging her shoulders against the knowledge that her daughter was with William alone in his bedroom, she continued down the corridor towards Annandale’s room.

Knocking softly on his door, she was surprised when she heard him bid ‘Enter’.

Annandale was sitting by the fire with a brandy in his hands. When he had heard the tentative knock, he had assumed it would be William. When Joyce entered the room, he stood up in shock. She looked so beautiful to him, wrapped in her night clothes and her dark blonde hair flowing around her face.

“Your Grace,” he nodded in greeting as she closed the door. “What brings you here at this time of night?”

Joyce smiled at him as she walked over to one of the chairs by the fire and sat.

“Thomas,” she began. “You and I have known each other many years. I know that our friendship distanced because of Henry’s actions, but I think we have healed that breach now.”

Walking to the chair opposite Joyce, Annandale nodded his agreement.

Joyce took a deep breath and continued. “I need to talk about Henry, Thomas, and you are the only person in this house that will understand my fears.”

Annandale looked with concern at Joyce. There were dark circles under her eyes and she looked to be in pain. His feelings for her were starting to run deep and he would move heaven and earth to ensure her happiness.

“What fears do you have, Joyce?” He asked gently as he leant forward in his chair. “You are not afraid Henry will come back to the house, are you? He would not dare since the Prince himself has forbidden it.”

Joyce nodded her head negatively. “I am not frightened of Henry, Thomas. I am frightened of what he might decide to do to stop this marriage.”

Thomas could see her point of view very clearly. Henry would reap his revenge in some way before or after the marriage. The fact that he had brought this disgrace upon his own head would not occur to him. Henry liked to apportion blame, and he would lay his troubles at the couple’s door.

“I see your point, Joyce” he solemnly agreed. “You husband can be an evil bastard and at this moment he will see his banishment as the fault of William and maybe Buffy too.”

Quick to agree, Joyce continued to voice her fears. “I don’t know what he will do now, Thomas. He hates the country and to be forced into exile at Craven Hall will not sit well with him.”

Suddenly finding the carpet under his feet interesting, Thomas did not know what to reply. William and Buffy would not be safe until their marriage and had removed themselves out of London. He was also worried that Angelus would do his best to interfere in the couple’s lives and Liam was known far and wide for his grudges. Thomas was afraid that Buffy would be a widow before she became a wife. He had decided that Clem could help in this regard. Clem understood how dangerous Liam Angelus could be. William simply did not.

“Joyce, my dear, please try not to worry. I doubt Henry would be stupid enough to try anything when the insult to the Prince of Wales is still fresh. It would be tantamount to signing your own death warrant. Prinny would insist he left the country, and we all know Henry hates foreign soil more that his estate.”

Laughing at his comment, Joyce had to agree. Thomas had managed to allay most of her fears, but she was still worried about Angelus.

“What do we do, Thomas, when Angelus comes home to find his wife in Bedlam?”

Annandale smiled at Joyce and shrugged his shoulders. “All we can do Joyce is wait for him to return and try to work out his next move.”

“Yes, Thomas.” She agreed. “That is all we can do.”

She rose from the chair to take her leave. Thomas rose from his and gently took her hand in his.

“I will not let anything happen to the children, Joyce.” He promised as he kissed her hand. “Nor will I let anything happen to you.”

Joyce was stunned by the intensity of his voice. He sounded as if he really cared for her family, and caring was something she had lacked in twenty five years of marriage to a man who never loved her.

“Thank you for caring, Thomas. Anne found a real treasure when she found you.”

Thomas had not yet let go of her hand. Using little strength he pulled her towards him. As she drew close, he wrapped his free arm around her. Transfixed by the look in his eyes, Joyce followed where he led. Lifting their joined hands to his lips, he softly kissed each knuckle.

His voice, soft and sultry played with her senses. “I am going to kiss you, Joyce. If you don’t want me to then tell me no.”

She felt caught in a trap. His arm was wrapped around her waist and he had drawn her towards the full length of his body. She may not have lain with her husband on many occasions, but there was no doubting his arousal. This man made her feel more sensation in the last few seconds that Craven had done in all the time they were married.

Thomas slowly released her hand and ran his fingers through her hair.

“You are so beautiful, Joyce. I have wanted to hold you like this for at least five years.” He pulled her un-resisting body closer to his and moved has hands to her hips to pull her closer to his hard length.

“Do you feel what you do to me, Joyce? Can you not know how much I want you?”

Joyce continued to stare into his eyes. She could not mistake the depth of feeling there, and she started to tremble. How could she feel this way when he held her so lovingly? She was a forty-four year old matron, not a green schoolroom miss in the first throes of infatuation.

Henry’s words came unbidden to her mind. He had accused of her lying still beneath him while he took his pleasure. Joyce knew he had not lied with his remarks. She had been taught that a wife let her husband have his pleasure and it was ladylike not to respond, yet this man made her want to hold him they way he was holding her.

“I…..don’t…know what …to…do, Thomas” she admitted in small voice. “Henry never kissed me much and he said….” She did not know how to tell him more.

Anger at Craven swelled in his breast. He could imagine the evil words the man would have said to his wife. To save her more embarrassment, Thomas asked. “Did he tell you that you were no good between the sheets, Joyce?”

She stared at him in shock. How could he know the type of conversation she had had with Henry.

Thomas could see immediately that he had guessed what lay behind her reluctance to kiss. Craven had really used his words to wound her deeply. He swore then that if he ever saw him again, he would kill him.

“Let me show you how wonderful it can be with a man who cares for you, Joyce. Let me take you to the stars and back.”

He lowered his head and gently nipped at her lips. He used his tongue to sooth his bites and when she gasped, he kissed her with all the experience he had. It was like kissing a virgin, he thought as he held her close to continue his assault on her lips. Craven had not taught her anything.

Tentatively, Joyce allowed her tongue to play with his. Craven had only ever kissed her for a few moments at a time and had never used his tongue the way Thomas was. She felt herself start to melt into his embrace and before she could gather her thoughts, he had led her to the bed and was lying next to her.

“Before this night is over, Joyce, I am going to show you pleasure like you have never known. Even if you never come to my bed again, I want you to feel tonight everything I have to give.”

And with that, he lowered his head and captured her lips with his.

Chapter 54. Four for breakfast

AN* Reviews feed my soul till I have to just write and write and write…………



Breakfast was a late affair that Sunday morning. It was almost eleven by the time Annandale, William, Buffy and Joyce had made it to the table. Dawn, too young to attend the ball, had broken her fast over two hours before and was currently in the schoolroom with her governess. An awkward silence fell over the table as each adult filled their plate and sat down.

Annandale was smiling sweetly at Joyce, who kept her eyes on her plate. Red-faced she took little bites of a scone washed down with weak tea. William and Buffy looked at each other trying to communicate with their eyes. Both knew that there was something different about their respective parents this morning, but neither could detect the cause.

Joyce finally looked at Annandale and a wonderful smile lit her face. William, who noticed the look that passed between Joyce and his father, knew immediately that his father had managed to seduce the Duchess of Craven.

Lucky, lucky dog, he thought. He was still having limited success with his own seduction of his future wife, but he was willing to wait. Their wedding night would be wonderful, of this he was sure. Buffy managed to take the edge off his need with her hands and wonderful mouth, and even if this was all she allowed until the wedding, he was willing to stave his urges on her behalf.

His father noticed the look on his son’s face, and rightly guessed that William knew of his new relationship with Joyce. He was too proud to be angry. Last night with Joyce had been wonderful and he was sure she had reached completion for the first time in her life. In fact she had reached completion on at least four occasions that he could recall. Yes, it had been a good night.

Buffy was still at a loss. It was obvious that William knew why her mother and Annandale were sharing looks this morning. She decided that she would be questioning him later, and she was just as sure that he better tell her the truth.

Conversation was limited. The events of the night before were taboo. All present did not want to discuss anything that may bring back unpleasant memories. Their talk revolved around pleasantries and discussion of the various dresses worn by the guests.

Eventually, Annandale had had enough. It was time to bring some things out in the open.

“William, Buffy” he addressed the couple. “I think you should seriously consider buying a special licence at Doctor’s Commons today and marrying as soon as possible.”

Neither William nor Buffy could see the reason behind Annandale’s request. Their plans had been set for at least two weeks and there was still work to be done on the estate before it was habitable. Joyce and Buffy deserved to live in the luxury they were used to.

William was quick to raise an objection. “Annandale House is not ready yet, father. We cannot have Buffy’s family live there until we are sure that all the repairs are complete.”

A sudden thought crept into his mind.

“Craven is paying for the repairs. What if he decides to rescind on payment and work stops. It would take even longer to get the house into shape.”

Joyce looked at William across the table. “He may just do that, William. My husband cannot touch the dowry, but he can stop the use of his own money. “

William looked crest-fallen at her words. He had counted on Craven paying for the repairs. There would be little money left if he had to dip into what little would be left of the dowry once he had passed Buffy her share.

A smile lit Joyce’s face. “We will get the money another way, William.” She moved her gaze to her daughter and asked pointedly. “Do you wish to live in Annandale House, Buffy?”

Buffy nodded her reply. She could not guess what her mother had in mind and was most interested to know where the money would be found. Her mother knew nothing of her private arrangement with Spike over the dowry. Where did her mother propose to find such a large amount?

“I thought so, my dear. If that is the case we will sell the Craven diamonds to pay for the repairs.” Ignoring her daughter’s gasp, Joyce continued to outline her plan. “My money paid for those diamonds and they are currently still under my control.” She took a deep breath and looking around the table at the shocked looks on their faces. “I will not have jewellery my family’s money paid for gracing the neck of Henry’s whores. We will sell and use the money to make sure this family is comfortable.”

Turning to Annandale, she asked “Do you know where we may sell the diamonds, Thomas?”

Gasping slightly in shock, he shook his head in acknowledgement.

“Good,” she said. “We will sell this very afternoon and send the money north to pay the workers.” Looking at William, she inquired if he knew someone he trusted to take the money to the estate.

“The only man I would trust with this would be Clem, but he cannot take the money until he has had his audience with the Prince. He would not return in time for that.”

Joyce nodded, “Yes, we cannot ask Clem to take another trip to the north so soon after his return.” A smile lit her face as an idea came to mind.

“We will send Xander and ask for Giles to accompany him. Giles will be able to check that our possessions arrived safely and he can check on the servants while there.” She turned to Annandale for his approval. “What do you think, Thomas, is this not a good plan?”

Annandale was flabbergasted. Here sat a woman with the strength of purpose that no one believed she had. She had quickly found a solution to a problem that could hold up the marriage.

“I think that is a wonderful idea, Joyce. But are you sure you wish to sell the diamonds?”

Smiling at Annandale, she replied whole heartedly “Without a doubt, Thomas. The diamonds are mine and we will sell them and all have a wonderful life together on the money they will bring. I know how much they cost to buy and will accept no less than thirty thousand pounds for the lot.”

William gasped. Although he was heir to a Dukedom, the Annandale coffers had never had that amount of disposable money. Joyce spoke of the amount as if it was nothing. He marvelled at how differently one could live when money was no object.

“If you are completely sure that this is what you want, Joyce, I will sell them this day.”

Once again Joyce smiled at him and talking his hand in hers, she whispered. “I am glad you will do this for me, Thomas. You are indeed a good friend.”

This time Buffy could not miss the affection in her mother’s voice. It was the tone she noticed most. Her mother only used her affectionate lilt with her children and Buffy knew at that moment that her mother harboured strong feelings for Annandale.

Good luck to her, she thought. Her mother had lived in a loveless marriage for twenty five years, forced to sit quiet while her husband fucked his way round London. This gentle man made her mother happy, who was she to object. Once gone from London they could carry on however they liked at Annandale. No one would care what the sleeping arrangements were in Annandale House.

Smiling to herself, a thought came to mind. If Annandale was even half as good as his son in bed, her mother would be happy every morning, just like she was today. It was at that moment she realised why her mother was happy this morning; she had been with Annandale all night.

Before she could stop her mouth, she asked, “Mama, did you and Annandale share a bed after the ball?”

Brick red in the face, Joyce turned to her daughter. “I doubt you can comment Buffy considering I heard you in William’s room as I made my way to Thomas’”

Buffy burst out laughing, which shocked all at the table.

“Indeed mother I was in William’s room last night, but I can assure you that I am still pure and will stay that way until I am married.”

Still laughing, she turned to William. “It looks like we are going to be one big happy family at Annandale, Spike. We are going to have such fun.”

Annandale looked at Buffy in confusion. “You truly approve of our relationship, Buffy?”

“Why, of course, your grace. You are just what my mother needs” Suddenly turning serious she lowered her voice and spoke directly to Annandale. “If you hurt her in any way Thomas, I will hunt you down and kill you.”

With that statement she sat back in her chair and waited for a reaction.

William was the first to burst out laughing. He turned to his father, still with laughter in his voice. “She means it, father. Buffy can wield a sword better than most men. I would not like to go up against her in a temper, she would run me through.”

Both Joyce and Thomas looked at the children laughing happily. They had been given permission to carry on their affair and it pleased them both no end.

Annandale rose from the table bringing breakfast to an end. He held out his hand to Joyce for her to take.

“If you will excuse us, Joyce and I need to talk about the sale of the jewellery. William, you will need to stay until Kirkbride’s visit and I would be grateful if none of what we talked of today reaches his ears.”

William’s laughter had died down to a loving smile. “You can count on my discretion father, but remember Craven will be returning soon and we need to be here to greet him.”

Annandale smiled back at his son. “Oh I will be gone from the house by the time Craven returns, William. When I return I would like to talk to you in private.”

Nodding at his father as he and Joyce left the room arm in arm. Annandale turned and spoke to his son.

“I am most interested to know why Buffy calls you Spike.”

Chapter 55. Kirkbride’s visit.

AN* Please vote for me at the SunnyD awards. Please, Please, Please. If you do I will bring Angelus home.




By fifteen minutes before one, the Craven household was in a state of flux waiting on its master.

Lord Angus Kirkbride had arrived just fifteen minutes earlier and had joined William in the library. Xander had sent word that morning informing William he would be home by one and would bring his father with him. William was surprised at how well the whelp was turning out.

The drawing room door opened to admit Clem and William smiled warmly at his friend. Moving forward he shook his hand warmly and welcomed him.

“Thank you for coming today, Clem. I do not think this will be pleasant and I need friends around me today.”

Clem smiled at William in reply. “You can always count on me, Will, you know this.”

William looked at his friend and wondered how the man had put up with him for as many years as he had. He had always been there for him no matter how much of a fuck up he had been. In the space of a heartbeat, William resolved to tell his friend that he had found a way to let Clem and Faith be together as man and wife. When he had talked over his idea with Annandale before he left the house, his father had urged him to put the idea to Clem as soon as possible. Both Annandale and William knew Clem loved Faith very much, but with her reputation as damaged as it was their prospects were not good.

“Where is your father, Will? I expected him to be here to revel in Craven’s downfall.”

“My father has other business today, Clem. He will return later this afternoon and will talk to us all then. Can you wait till then and hear what he has to say?” William turned slightly red in the face before he continued. “I know you have not seen Faith much in the last few weeks, Clem, and it worries me that you have put my affairs over your own.”

Clem stared at William in shock. Will had taken little interest in his dealings with Faith. In fact, Clem could remember William calling him all types of fool for paying so much for a well used whore. It had been the first time that they had fought in earnest. From that moment, Faith had been discussed rarely between the men.

“We must talk later, Will. There are things you need to know.” The mention of Faith had brought her confessions to mind and Clem needed to tell William of her fears. With Drusilla now in Bedlam, Clem feared Angelus’ revenge.

William smiled at his friend. “I promise we will talk later, Clem. I have much I need to discuss with you.”

Clem just had time to nod his reply when Xander entered the room accompanied by his father.

Craven still looked as angry as he had the previous eve when he had been banished from him own house by the Prince.

Kirkbride, sipping at the brandy he held in his hand, rose from his place by the fire and greeted the Duke.

“Your Grace, thank you for keeping this appointment.” A sneer stole over Kirkbride’s face. “I am sorry that you had to miss church this holy day.”

Angry at Kirkbride for his sarcastic remark, Craven spat at him. “Stop trying to be facetious, Kirkbride, I have brought the dowry. Let’s finish this transaction so that you leave this house and I can follow. I do not wish to be in the presence of anyone in it for longer than I need.”

William was angry at the obvious insult to both Buffy and Joyce. Even Xander was shocked at his father’s words. Maybe it was better the whelp hear from his father’s lips how much he despised his wife and children. William had never been so glad that Joyce had at last found some happiness with his father. He must remember to bring Xander up to date on that situation later. If crouched in the right terms, he was sure he could count on Xander’s support for his father’s attentions to his mother.

Thinking of his father reminded William of his father’s absence. It was not until the little breakfast group had removed the diamonds from the safe, that they remembered it was a Sunday and no jewellery shops would be open. Deciding that the gems would be safer out of the house, Annandale was currently in the process of transferring them to his safe at home.

Joyce’s trust in him had made Annandale’s heart swell.

Craven handed over the packet containing fifty thousand pounds. William wondered where he had managed to find such an amount in less than twelve hours, then realised he did not care as long as Buffy’s money was safe in Kirkbride’s hands.

Kirkbride drew out Craven’s agony by slowly counting the notes. When he had finished, he drew a piece of paper from his pocket and handed it to the Duke.

“Your receipt, your grace. The Prince expects it to be returned to me on the day of the wedding. I will call on you for its retrieval.”

Kirkbride smiled at the Duke with no humour. “I take it I will find you in Chelsea, your grace. I will call at six of the clock.”

The duke did not care how Kirkbride knew his direction. The Prince had many friends willing to do his bidding. Finding his love nest in Chelsea would not have taken much resource.

“I will bid you good day till then, Kirkbride.”

Craven desperately wanted to rein a peal over William’s head for bringing him to this, but knew he could not. Revenge was sweet but he would leave the work to Angelus on his return.







Once Kirkbride and Craven had left the house, William poured both Clem and Xander a brandy. While they sipped, he brought them up to date with events in the last twelve hours. He was happy that Xander had willingly taken up the challenge of removing the money to Annandale. Giles had been instructed in his new duties of the next few weeks and had pleased William with his willingness to help the duchess.

Like senior retainers in every household, Giles knew all the business of the house. He had been reliably informed that the Duke of Annandale had accompanied her grace to her rooms early in the morning. The passionate kiss they had shared outside her door had been reported to him in all its detail. Pleased that his beloved duchess was at last finding happiness, he had instructed his informant that this revelation must not be gossiped about below stairs. Knowing she would lose her place should there be any hint of gossip, the young maid had quickly agreed.

Xander and Giles removed themselves to the morning room to make plans. William was pleased they had left as he needed to talk to Clem.

“I have an apology to make to you, Clem”

Clem’s eyes widened, he wondered what William was apologising for.

“You have listened to me talk for years about Drusilla. You let me cry on your shoulder when she hurt me and you pulled me back from too many moods of despair to count. You have been a wonderful friend to me, Clem, and it is time now to pay back all the favours you have ever bestowed on me.”

Clem’s eyes widened even further. He could think of nothing to say. This was a different William than the one he had known most of his life.

William smiled as he continued with his apology. He hoped his friend would agree to the suggestion he was about to make.

“You are a younger son, Clem, and as such have no need to marry for heirs.”

When Clem started to bristle slightly at William’s words, he quickly went on.

“I would like to sell you the dower estate next to Annandale, Clem, for the sum of two hundred pounds. There is a condition on the sale, however. I would like you to take Faith there as your bride. No one there or in the surrounding area knows of her downfall, Clem, and she could live out the rest of her life as Lady Telford.”

William smiled at the look of shock on his friend’s face.

“She was born a Lady, Clem, she should live as one. You and I know that she would never be accepted by the ton, but at Annandale she could have the household she was born to. I only want two hundred pounds as it will take a good few thousand to bring it back to shape. Use your money for that purpose and make your woman as happy as she deserves to be.”

Tears filled Clem’s eyes. His best friend had found a way for him to be with Faith forever without the taint of her past. He had three brothers before him to take the title of Earl on their father’s demise. He would never have to move to the ancestral pile his family called home.

Rich in his own right thanks to careful investments in the East India Company, he had no need of family money. If they disowned him for marrying an ex-whore, he did not care. He would be living on the next estate to his best friend, family was not such in important factor to him at this moment.

Clem drew William into a hug. He cried into William’s neck like a child seeking comfort from its mother. He had been trying to find a way that he and Faith could be together without the ton’s approval. William had handed him the perfect solution.

He was desperate to leave and give the news to Faith. He would bang on the doors of Doctor’s Commons tomorrow to pay the six pounds it cost for the special licence. He would have Faith as his wife by the end of the morrow.

In his excitement to return to Faith and tell her of William’s proposal, Clem forgot to pass on her warnings about Angelus.

It was an oversight he would regret for the rest of his life.

Chapter 56 An evening out



AN* I dedicate this chapter to all the loyal readers who have stuck with this fic from the beginning.





Craven and Lady Catherine were going to the theatre. The duke had decided that as the whole ton knew he had been banned from his wife, he may as well enjoy himself with his mistress. He had not had a good night; parting with fifty thousand of his own money had not been part of the bargain. Buffy’s portion would not be released by the trustees until they saw the marriage certificate and he could not claim the money back until then.

The large dower was not a hindrance to his finances. He had invested Joyce’s money well and he was sure even she did not know the amount of money in the Craven coffers. He could well afford to spend some money to make sure the Annandale estate was brought back up to par. Happy that his family would soon be out of his life, he had indulged Catherine with some extra baubles to make up for the bruising he had inflicted on her the night before.

His current mistress Lady Catherine was, without doubt, one of the best he had ever had. She not only liked the pain he inflicted, she was good at administering it too. She was a woman of many special gifts and she never failed to surprise him. In the Chelsea house they kept a locked room that only they dared enter. Craftsmen had built some toys to Craven’s specific design and the couple enjoyed them immensely.

The duke had always taken care to not to mark his lovers where it could be seen. The latest fashions could hide a multitude of sins, and he wished necklines were not as low as he loved to bite his lover’s breasts. He was fastidious in avoiding the face and arms, but the back and legs were his playground. Pretty colours could be revealed by a few well aims blows with whips and chains. Gagging your lover to stop the screams was fun too.

The couple made their way to the theatre to enjoy a musical performance. It was not Craven’s choice of evening, but he felt he had to make up some ground with his lover. She was still limping slightly from the whipping to her legs and she deserved some entertainment. A part of him was proud of her beauty and grace and he was in the mood to show her off. He knew he should be in the country by now, but knowing how fickle prinny could be, he doubted the man would care.



##



Craven House had become a hive of activity. William and his father had decided to take the ladies out on the town. Xander and Dawn had agreed to join them, and Dawn was very excited at being allowed such a treat. Buffy had helped her dress for the occasion and had allowed Willow to style her hair. Dawn felt so grown up and was pleased she was joining the adults for the evening.

Annandale had been very successful in selling the Craven diamonds. He had visited several shops as none had the thirty thousand available at that time of the day. By the time the last gem had been sold, the duchess had not thirty thousand pounds but forty five thousand pounds. The money had been left in the Annandale safe ready for Xander and Giles to transfer the money north on the morrow.

William had been missing from the house for most of the afternoon and Buffy had wondered where he had gone. She may love him, but she did not fully trust him yet. He had been evasive when she had questioned him about his whereabouts, and promised herself she would get the answer out of him later. If he had been to visit Dru in Bedlam, she would run him through.

Dru was the last thing on William’s mind today. He had spent the afternoon as Clem’s groomsman when he married Faith. William believed the union was doomed, yet the couple appeared to be very happy. He could not leave directly after the ceremony as it would have been rude, and so he had stayed to have an early dinner with them.

Clem and Faith had agreed they would keep their marriage secret until they moved to the dower estate. The ton would have a field day with them if they knew, and Clem was not sure that Faith would cope with the pressure.

When he had returned the previous afternoon and told her of William’s proposal, she had broken down and cried. Clem had been dreadfully worried over her actions and wondered if she did, indeed, wish his hand in marriage. He had held her until the crying reduced to hiccups and sobs against his shirt.

When he finally managed to calm her down, she told him how she had always dreamed that he would ask her to marry him and take her away from London forever. She told him how she wanted to start a family as soon as possible, and had dragged him to bed to start the process. At the end of their lovemaking, she told him she loved him. In all the time they had been together, Clem had told her he loved her all the time. That was the first time she had ever said it back.

Faith had tried on several occasions to speak to William to warn him of Angelus, but he was never on his own. She made a bargain with herself that she would speak to him before the week was out. For all that William had done for Clem and she, he deserved to know the truth; no matter how it pained her to speak of that night.

It was late in the afternoon before William had returned to Craven House, and he knew immediately that his Buffy was not pleased. Instinctively he knew she would think he had visited Dru and he wondered what he could tell her that she would believe. He had avoided her questions all evening but she was becoming more persistent. It was almost worth holding his tongue and let her stew as she was so adorable when she pouted, but he knew she would hold herself back from him and he needed her close. He would tell her after the theatre why he had been absent from her side.

At seven of the clock the little party happily left the house for their evening out.



##



Craven arrived slightly ahead of the Annandale party. He and Lady Catherine moved into the Craven box and haughtily ignored the stares of the audience. In truth Henry was enjoying the attention, and he played up to the crowd by nodding to friends and lifting his champagne glass to members of the demi-monde who caught his eye. Unfortunately, his reputation for cruelty was legend in the half world of the courtesan and none acknowledged him. Catherine would pay later for their slight.

Lady Catherine started to feel out of place. She had become Henry’s mistress when it had been confirmed that her husband had died in the Peninsula. With no money and no chance to find a husband, she had accepted Henry’s offer. Adapting easily to the games Henry liked to play, she had taken to her new role with vigour. However there were times she wished he would give her a conge and let her live in peace. Just the evening before he had been particularly brutal and she would be marked for a long time. It was difficult to walk like a lady when the whip marks on your back and legs were still raw.

Annandale led his party to the private box he had rented for the season. No matter how strapped for cash, the Annandales still held their head high. Thomas had found out from Joyce that she loved to watch the opera and he had immediately decided on their little outing.

William escorted Buffy to her seat in the box, while Xander led an excitable Dawn to her place. Annandale was pre-occupied with making Joyce comfortable and did not notice Craven two boxes down.

Craven looked at Annandale’s box within moments of their arrival. He had recognised the incessant whine of his youngest and had turned his head just in time to see Annandale seat his wife. A cocky grin covered his face at the sight of the little troupe. They would have assumed he had fled to the country like a whipped dog, not stay in London and openly come to the theatre with his mistress. The production on stage would not be half as entertaining as setting Joyce on her ears. It would be her turn to be embarrassed in front of the ton this evening. He settled back in his seat and waited to be noticed by his wife.

Joyce spotted Henry immediately. She had looked at the Craven box when she had settled down in her seat hoping it would be empty. Spying her husband before she noticed his companion, she almost stopped breathing. Craven was supposed to be at Craven Hall and not still in London. Guilt over her behaviour with Thomas overwhelmed her and she looked away.

Annandale had noticed her reaction and quickly found the cause. As he looked into the Craven box he was shocked that Henry had brought his whore. The insult to Joyce made his blood boil and his temper flare. How dare the man do this to his family, he had no sense of decorum.

Buffy noticed the change in her mother immediately and thinking she was going to be ill, rose for her chair and walked to her mother. Joyce lifted her eyes to her approaching daughter and whispered.

“Your father is in the Craven box.”

Buffy, relieved that her mother was well, took a few moments to absorb what her mother was saying.

“Pardon, mama?” she replied frowning slightly. “Who did you say was here?”

A distinct blush covered her mother’s face, and Buffy realised that her mother was upset rather than ill. When she repeated her statement, Buffy’s eyes had flown to the family box and confirmed her father was indeed present. Noticing he was not alone, here eyes looked over the woman sitting next to her father. How dare he bring his whore into society? It was an insult too far.

“William, could you tell me if my father has brought his latest whore to the theatre or is she a new one he has picked out of the gutter”

Total silence fell over the audience as Buffy started her tirade. She did not care what the audience thought of her private performance, all she wanted to do was hurt her father in any way she could.

Hearing her make her statement loudly to the audience, William smiled broadly and eyed Craven and Catherine in their box.

“Why ‘tis the same used up bit of skirt he has been with for some time now, my love. I doubt he will introduce us and I see the orchestra ready to begin.” William’s smile lit up his face at her antics and he had enjoyed himself playing to the audience. Buffy stood with her back to the crowd and gave him an impish grin before she continued.

“The depths that one must go to earn a crust of bread must be so humiliating. Imagine everyone knowing that you have to lie with a dried up old man to keep a roof over your head.”

William was laughing openly now. He loved when Buffy was like this, all fire and anger. He wondered if she knew her eyes changed colour when she acted this way. Watching her take her place in the box, he grinned at her and spoke softly in her ear.

“Well done, luv. That should embarrass him nicely.”

In their haste to bring Craven down they had forgotten that Dawn knew little of events of the ball. Xander held her hand to stop her rising and looking at her father. He held her hand tightly in hers as he explained the situation. Fully expecting to leave the theatre to take his upset sister home, he started to rise at the end of his tale.

Dawn, more concerned that she would miss her first night at a theatre, bid her brother sit.

“If papa chooses to sit with someone else, Xander, then who are we to stop him.” Smiling at her brother she continued. “I refuse to return home, Xander. I am sure my father is more embarrassed than we. After all if he prefers another person’s company to his family, we cannot stop him. Please sit Xander, I wish to watch the performance and the curtain is opening.”

Xander puffed with pride at the sense shown by his sister. He had fully expected tears and tantrums, but Dawn had handled the situation with the poise and dignity to which she was born. Dawn was definitely made of the same stuff as Buffy and he was proud to be part of their lives.




The first half of the opera passed without incident. Both the Annandale and Craven boxes ignored one another, while the audience waited with bated breath to see if there would be a confrontation. They were sorely disappointed. When the interval was called, there was a rush to the foyer to see if there would be fireworks between the families.

William, Xander had left to procure lemonade and champagne for their little group. Annandale had chosen to stay behind in case Craven decided to visit. He need not have worried. Craven was too busy with a visitor of his own.

“Why, Angelus.” Henry smiled at his visitor. “How nice to see you back in the capital.”

Chapter 57 Daddy’s Home



AN* - Well you have all waited patiently (some more than others) for his arrival.


My sincere thanks go out to Eve and SpikeMRS for talking me out of a block.

To Mollie and Serenity – I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

To Kimber and Vette – You have kept me going with your reviews on AFF


I dedicate this chapter to them all.






Angelus had docked the evening before in Portsmouth. It had taken him a day to travel up to London, anger rising with each mile. Tending to stick to specific months of the year to return to his English wife, he was not pleased to receive her summons. He wondered what the stupid bitch had done to muck up her relationship with Whitmore. The man had been her lapdog for ten bloody years. Ten years in which their relationship had suited him well. How had she managed to lose him to a schoolroom chit, especially one as well-dowered as the Craven girl?

Dru and Angelus had often talked about what they would do with Whitmore when he came into money. It was always a foregone conclusion that Whitmore would one day marry an heiress. The Annandales had no money to speak of, but their name was good and a dukedom was enough incentive to any match-making mama. Angelus was surprised that Whitmore had shied away from the parson’s mousetrap as long as he had.

His wife had used all her powers to control William over the years. The number of times he had lain under one of her mesmeric spells while she fucked her way through London was almost a joke. Sometimes she had posed him on a chair while she entertained her visitors. On other occasions he had been used as a plaything by her current ciscebo and the idiot had not even realised. Christ, Angelus himself had used him a few times over the years and had revelled in riding a future Duke.

It seemed now those days were over. Dru had lost control of her plaything, and for that reason he had been summoned home. She had written that he was leaving her for Lady Elizabeth Summers, and asked he come home soon so that he could help her get him back. He had not wanted to leave his home in Ireland where he openly lived with his Irish mistress.

His marriage to Drusilla had been arranged by their parents when they were in their infancy, and one did not disobey one’s parents. Angelus had married her when she was but seventeen and quickly trained her to his needs. She had been a quick learner, but her fey moods did not suit his temperament and he had Darla waiting in Ireland for him.

They had arrived at their present marital arrangement many years before when it became clear that Drusilla could not conceive a child. Darla, the wife of his heart, had borne him three strapping sons and two girls. Plans were already underway by his lawyers to make sure they got his money and lands even if they could not inherit the titles he held. Drusilla did not even know of their existence as she lived happily in her own little world where she ruled like a queen.

With a growing family to feed and an expensive wife, Angelus always needed money. To this end Drusilla had kept them in a tidy amount by selling the gifts her lovers gave her. If they chose to take their pleasure without giving her pretty things, she would make them. She was exceptionally good at making them pay. If she had not been so good at bringing money into his pocket he would have got rid of her years ago and married Darla. However the amount of soft she could provide had increased over the years and until his estates turned a profit, he would keep her in London.

He had decided to stay overnight in The Jolly Waggoner on the Bath Road when he first heard of his wife’s disgrace. A young rake, truly foxed, had accosted him as soon as he had heard Angelus give his name to the landlord. Within the hour the boy was dead his body hidden in the nearby woodland, and Angelus had been informed of the events of the Craven and Annandale engagement ball.

Although he did not love Drusilla, they did still play their little games when he deigned to come home, and for that reason he felt a responsibility to her. That and her voracious sexual appetite had kept the Angelus coffers in a reasonable state. He did not want to lose his best source of income.

To be told she was currently residing in Bedlam was the outside of enough. He knew she would end up within its walls at some point, but not until her usefulness was at an end. She was still a beautiful woman; surely her mind had not gone totally over the edge.

Angry and tired, he had continued his journey into London on his hired horse. He had gone immediately to his home to question his servants. All told the same story. Two of the Prince’s Aides accompanied by Lord Alexander Summers and Lord Clement Telford had taken their mistress to Bedlam on the order of the Prince of Wales.

Once he was bathed, fed and changed into clean clothes, Angelus made his way to Bedlam. The idiot who had admitted Dru was not on duty and he easily bribed a porter to take him to his wife. He was shocked by her appearance. Expecting her to be sitting quietly he could not believe she was tied to the bed in what obviously were the clothes she had worn to Craven’s ball. She looked dirty, dishevelled and totally manic.

Drusilla turned her head at the sound of the opening door. She spied Angelus in the doorway and smiled at him.

“Liam,” she cooed. “You’re home.”

Angelus spied a small wooden chair in the room and moved it to her side to sit.

“Hello, my queen. Daddy’s home and he will make it all better.”

Smiling at her husband from her prone position on the bed, Angelus noticed that she did not seem to care that she was trussed like a chicken. He wondered if she was so far gone in the head that he would need to leave her here. He needed answers, but was not sure she was lucid enough to tell him the whole.

Looking directly into his eyes, Drusilla started her tale. Daddy would listen to her and help her to get William. She needed William back.

“The pixies brought me here before I could dance, Daddy.” She sing-songed. “Miss Edith missed the party and I don’t know where she is. She whispers to me, but I cannot find her.”

Angelus looked with sadness at his wife. She must be far gone now to talk in such riddles. Drusilla had always been fey and was gifted with second sight. It was one of her attractions, but today she appeared to be totally gone in the head. He shook his head in acceptance that she was beyond even his help now.

“Daddy?” she asked when she knew she had lost his attention.

“Yes, sweetheart, what do you want?”

She crinkled her forehead in a frown as if thinking what to say.

“William won’t come to play anymore, daddy, and I need him to come back. Can you bring him back to his dark princess, daddy?”

Looking down at the obviously mad woman on the bed, Angelus did not know how to answer her. If he told her that he would bring William to heel, he would have to keep his promise. He did not have Dru’s mesmeric skills; he could not subdue William as easily as she. He wondered if he could beat him into submission. That would be fun.

He decided to talk to her gently and try and decipher the truth from the twaddle that ran around her head. Bending from the waist towards her, he took her hand in his as he spoke.

“Drusilla, darling, talk to Daddy now please not Miss Edith. Tell me what happened before the pixies came.”

Drusilla beamed at him. He had always beaten her before when she told him of the pixies. He must believe her now. She was so happy.

When she looked at him, holding her hand and being so nice to her, she wondered why she needed anyone else. Then she remembered he had Darla and she was to find her own pleasures. Her smile disappeared and suddenly she was lucid and coherent.

“Elizabeth has bewitched him, Liam, with her blonde hair and green eyes. She has taken him away and he now plays with only her. Her money has seduced him away and she tells him lies about how she feels. She does not want him, Liam; she wants her money all to herself to be free. She will hurt him badly and he will be too broken to come back to us. We need the money she will provide him, but she will try to keep control.”

Angelus sat back in his seat amazed that she could tell him so much.

“How do you know all this, Dru?”

Grinning, she squeezed his hand tightly.

“I know, Liam, because I have looked at her and saw into her mind. Oh she likes the pleasure William can bring, but she does not trust him.” Proudly she continued. “She does not trust him because of me. She knows exactly who I am and what I mean to William and she does not like it. He has turned away from me and still she does not trust him.”

The grin faded as thoughts tangled around her head.

“If he marries the chit then he will have her money no matter what she thinks. He has a new toy to play with just now, but he will always love me. We must let them marry, Liam, and then take away his sunshine. When she is gone forever from his life, he will have her money and I will have him.”

Smiling coyly, looked up at the ceiling while she continued to hold his hand.

“Just think, Liam, all that money and it will be all ours. I will seduce it out of him in any way I can. I know his desires and I know his needs. Some silly schoolroom chit will never know him the way I do.” Turning burning eyes to her husband, she continued to speak in a low voice. “I made him into what he is today. I took his as a virgin to my bed and trained him to please me in every way. He cannot leave me, Daddy, I won’t allow it.”

Angelus could see the beauty of her plan. Killing the Summers chit would not sit on his conscience in any way. She would not be the first woman, or man, he had killed and he had found many ways to prolong his pleasure in the act. He smiled at Drusilla as he replied.

“I will find a way to get rid of her, sweetheart. We must get you out of here before the wedding if we are to put the plan in motion. It may take me a few days but I will bring you home.”

Drusilla looked at him in wonder. He was just so good to her when he wanted to be and it gave her tingly feelings inside when he spoke with her like this. Too many times he spoke with the lash and although she liked it, she preferred when he was nice to her.

“Daddy, talk to Craven. He invited me to the party, but did not tell me the scary Prince would be there. He got me so angry Daddy that I told him he could not get it up. Everyone laughed and laughed.” She frowned in remembrance, and all lucidity fled. “Then the pixies came and took me away.”

Angelus felt his anger rise at her plight. He would get her out of here if it was the last thing he did. She may be fey and slightly touched, but she did not need to be bound and dirty.

“I will take you home soon, Dru, and we will have a party to celebrate.”

Once again she beamed at him.

“With cakes, and eggs and lots of pretty dresses. Yes, I will like that very much, Daddy.”

Angelus rose from his chair and walked to the head of the bed to gently stroke her face. She purred like a kitten in his hand, and once again he swore vengeance on those who had put her here.

“I promise you, sweetheart, that I will get rid of Elizabeth Summers and bring your William home.”

Drusilla closed her eyes in happiness.

Everything would be alright now that Daddy was home.

Chapter 58 Conversations


AN* The next few chapters will deal with Angelus quite a lot, but there will be some Spuffy so hold on.




Bile rose into Angelus’ throat at the sight of the snivelling duke in front of him. In his mind this insignificant little man had torn his family apart. He swore he would do the same to his.

“Outside Craven, I think you and I need to talk.” Nodding to Lady Catherine, he smiled evilly. “Tell your whore to stay where she is for now, it is you I have need of.”

Henry could see the anger in Angelus’ dark eyes. He rose slowly from his seat hoping the man would not think he was intimidated into submission. Both men went through the door to the corridor at the rear of the private boxes to talk.

Before Craven could speak, Angelus had his hand around the man’s throat and was holding him against the wall.

“My wife is in Bedlam because of you Craven.” Angelus spat at Craven. “Tell me why I should let you fucking live. Right at this moment, your grace,” he sneered. “I want to rip you limb from limb and break your fucking neck.”

Craven could feel his bowels start to move. This man’s reputation was legend in the ton. There were many stories of how his enemies vanished without a trace, yet no blame could be laid at his door. There were stories of how he tortured his victims in unimaginable ways and took pleasure in his acts of violence. It was getting hard to breathe.

His hands flew to his throat to try and remove his torturer’s hold. It was impossible and Craven could feel the front of his trousers become wet with his own piss.

Angelus dropped him in disgust and as the duke curled on the floor trying to get a breath, he laughed. He loved when his victims pissed themselves; it was even more fun when their bowels moved too. Sure that Craven was near that point he kicked him hard in the stomach.

“Get up you cowardly bastard before I fucking kill you where you lie” he ground out between clenched teeth.

If it was not for the fact that he needed information he would kill the snivelling little runt where he lay. Deciding that he might not get away with killing this lump of shit as easily as he had others, he thought he may show some mercy.

Hauling the duke to his feet by his arms, he pinned him against the wall again.

“Where is Whitmore, Craven? I have business to attend with him once I have finished with you.”

Craven still found it hard to speak. His throat was raw from the choking hold Angelus had placed on him and his stomach was on fire. Unable to speak, he nodded his head in the direction of the Annandale box.

Angelus turned his head in the direction Craven had indicated.

“You mean to tell me that Whitmore is here tonight just two boxes down from you and your whore?”

The duke nodded and was again assailed by the tightness in his throat and gut. He realised he had pissed himself and looked down at the spreading stain across his breeches. Mortified and angry that Angelus could reduce him to a quivering wreck, he lifted his hand and pointed again to the Annandale box.

Angelus looked down at the stain on Craven breeches, and laughed. “Better get yourself home, Craven, before I make you shit yourself as well as lose your piss.” He walked away leaving a broken duke behind. He needed a word with Lord William Whitmore.

Taking a moment to calm down, Angelus stood outside the Annandale box and breathed deeply. He assumed that William was inside with his fiancé and a chaperone, it would be fun to frighten them a little. The bastard had broken his wife, and he had to pay for his part in her downfall.

As he stood outside the box waiting on his anger to come under control, he glanced back to the Craven box. It gladdened his angry heart to see the Duke and his mistress slink away from the theatre. Bloody Bastard, he thought. He would still deal with him at some point. If not himself them one of his many ’friends’. It might be a good idea to be back in Ireland before the man drew his last breath. He smiled at the thought.

Angelus shook his head from side to side and widened his stance before knocking on the door of the box. He did not choose to enter; he would let them come to him. The door opened and there stood Lord Alexander Summers. Well, well, he thought. It would have been nice to be in the audience as the Summers clan had met their father’s mistress. He almost laughed.

He was unbearably polite in his greeting to the young Lordship. He would deal with this one later as well as Telford. He was determined to find out the names of the Prince’s aides who had dragged Dru to Bedlam. They would pay for their actions as much as the Summers family.

“Good evening, Lord Alexander. My name is Lord Liam Angelus and I would like a word with Lord Whitmore, if you would be so kind as to inform him of my presence.”

Xander did not need to inform anyone in the box who he was. The whole party turned their heads as one as Xander had answered the knock.

Angelus scanned the little party. William was easy to identify as was the Duke of Annandale, however he had never met the Summers family before and he quickly identified each of them. The young blonde had to be Elizabeth and the very young dark haired girl had to be her younger sister. His eyes returned to Elizabeth and he knew immediately why William had defected from Dru’s side. The girl was absolutely beautiful. He might just fuck her before he killed her.

William stood at the sound of his name. Angelus himself wanted to speak to him and he was curious as to the cause. Surely the man realised that his crack pot of a wife could not insult the Prince of Wales in public and stay in society. He was not afraid of Angelus as others were. The man may be large and have a rather strange forehead, but he was still a man and all men could be beaten.

Smirking at the man, William made his way to the door. Buffy had stood at almost the same moment and walked behind him. Turning to her, William smiled and bid her sit back down until his return.

“Oh I think not, William. If this man wishes to speak of his wife’s actions then perhaps I should accompany you.” She smiled sweetly at him before she continued. “After all it was not only you she attacked.” Buffy turned his smile on Angelus. “I am sure you require the whole tale do you not, my Lord?”

Stunned, Angelus just shook his head in acknowledgement. This chit had surprised him with her courage and fortitude. He was more determined than ever now to fuck her into submission. There was nothing like fucking an unwilling woman, it fed his evil soul. It was even better when they cried and begged him to stop. He loved to hear them cry.

Buffy and William walked through the box door into the hallway and closed it behind them. Annandale was determined to follow his son, but Xander laid his hand on his arm and bid him sit.

“Buffy will let no man hurt her, your grace, trust me on this. Angelus would not be stupid enough to try anything so publicly and not against two members of our party.”

Annandale saw the sense in Xander’s words, and sat down. He took comfort from Joyce when she laid her hand in his. He realised that by insisting on accompanying his son, Buffy may have saved his life. Xander was right, Angelus would not want an audience for his actions and he was not stupid enough to hurt them both.

In the hallway, Angelus stood back against the wall staring at the couple in front of him holding hands. He may not be able to use violence, but he could still wound. Yes, a little bit of mental torture was the way forward here.

“So, William, you stop seeing my wife for this piece of skirt and her family money.”

William took a step forward to confront Angelus, when he felt Buffy tighten the hold on his hand. She looked hard at Angelus before she spoke.

“My Lord, are you aware of the fool your wife made herself look in front of three hundred members of the ton, including the Prince of Wales?” she said in her sweetest, don’t fuck with me, voice.

“Madam, I am well aware of my wife’s actions. Her downfall lies at your fiancé’s door. She loved him and he abandoned her for you. It drove her to desperation and resulted in her actions at your ball.”

Before he could continue, William interrupted.

“My God, Angelus, you talk absolute rubbish and you know it.” William was not amused by the man apportioning blame on him. “Dru and I have been finished for some time and do not act like you care. You knew about us for years yet did nothing. She has always been slightly touched and you know this, so why try to lay her malady at my door.”

“Does your fiancé know of all that you and my wife got up to, Whitmore?” Angelus sneered at him.

Buffy saw immediately that the man was trying to drive a wedge between them. He needed a few home truths of his own. She turned her bright green gaze on their tormentor and sneered back to him.

“Personally, my lord, I really do not care what adventures your wife and my fiance had in their past because that is where it will stay, in the past.”

Buffy’s famous temper flew up a few notches before she continued.

“You think to come here and intimidate us. You are nothing to me, my lord, and I will have no trouble in cutting you from my acquaintance. Do not blame either of us for your wife’s behaviour, sir, look to her for an explanation of her actions.”

Buffy let William’s hand go before she walked up to Angelus and stood inches from him.

“Come back into my life and try to interfere, Angelus, and I will kill you myself. Take your anger out on those who deserve it, mainly yourself. If you had not left your wife on her own so long she might not have felt the need to open her legs for half the ton.”

Both William and Angelus stared at the spitfire before them. William was in awe, Angelus was in a rage. He lifted his hand to slap her, but William caught it in mid-air.

“Touch her, look at her, or even think of her and I will kill you Angelus.” William spat in his face.

Buffy’s knees had started to shake beneath her gown and she was not sure how much longer she would keep standing. Although she had put on a brave show for Angelus, she was not as confident as she appeared. She hoped the man would leave soon before she collapsed.

William continued to hold Angelus’ arm in a tight grip.

“Get out of here, Angelus, before I call the ushers to remove you. I never wish to see your face near either of us again. Tell your precious Dru that I will not come back. I have found love with Buffy, what I had with Dru was a fuck.”

Angelus laughed at William. In truth he had been surprised by his bravery. He had never had such a reaction from an adversary before and he found he enjoyed it. Most people he hurt reacted like Craven and pissed themselves over his shoes. It would not be the first time he had made a man clean his shoes with his tongue after they had lost their bladder.

Buffy stepped back as William let go of Angelus’ arm. William returned his hand to hers and they stood united against him.

Angelus looked at each in turn and smiled. He nodded his head slightly to both of them before turning to take his leave. He had gone but ten yards when he looked back to find them gone.

That little blonde bitch would pay with her body and her life for her treatment of him. William, he would kill in a heartbeat and take great pleasure in it.

It was time to return to his home and lay his plans.

Chapter 59 – The first time

AN* You do it me all the time readers and reviewers. I see the numbers go up and I have to tap tap tap.

In celebration of my 200th review on AFF I will take a chapter off from Angelus for Spuffy. There will be some plot in there, but it will be ultimately Spuffy all the way.

Let’s all thank MRS for her review – she was number 200.






Annandale had been worried sick over what Angelus would say or do to the couple. Joyce had almost held him down in his seat to stop him following his son. Xander had stayed close to the door ready to intervene should he hear screams. He had every confidence in his sister; it was Angelus he did not trust. Dawn had just sat in wonder at the events going on around her. She was the only one in the Annandale party who really did want to see the Opera.

While all the adults were pre-occupied with the goings on behind the closed box door, Dawn had moved to the front of the box to look at the stage. As she leaned forward slightly, she noticed her father and his paramour had left their box. She wondered where they had gone and hoped they had left the theatre.

Turning to her mother, she drew Joyce’s attention from the box door. “Mama, I think papa and his guest have gone.”

Joyce turned her attention from the door to her youngest daughter. “I dare say he has, Dawn. I do not think we will see him again. He is supposed to be at Craven Hall by now and I am sure word will get back to the Prince that he is out and about. We have nothing to fear from him now.”

Dawn smiled at her mother. The family thought they had kept her in the dark about the comings and goings at her home. She had overheard the maids talking about her father’s banishment and the cause. She had become very fond of William and Clem and was disgusted by her father’s behaviour towards Buffy. Turning her head back to the stage, Dawn lost herself in the performance.

Everyone except Dawn stood as William and Buffy re-entered the box. The couple were smiling and holding hands as if they had just been for a stroll rather than a confrontation with one of the most evil men to walk God’s earth.

Annandale could almost feel his heart rate return to a normal rhythm. He had been worried for his son and worried for Joyce. This type of incident could not be good for her health and his gaze had moved constantly from the door to her lovely face.

Xander had been as worried as Annandale. He knew Buffy better then anyone and was sure that she would go straight to attack not knowing what she was dealing with. Evaluating a situation was not Buffy’s strongpoint. Going in for the kill, however, was.

Joyce wanted no more of her family’s dirty linen washed in the public arena. Their little party was already the talk of the theatre and she wanted home. She knew she would disappoint Dawn, but a promise to bring her again before they all moved north would soon bring her cheer.

Like the true Duchess she was born to be, she announced that they were leaving. Surprised that her youngest daughter did not pout at her announcement she drew her to her bosom.

“I promise we will come again before we leave for Annandale, Dawnie. You will see an Opera all the way through without your father and other interruptions.”

Dawn smiled in her special way to her mother. “I would not have missed this for the world, mama. I have had the most tremendous time. I am quite happy to wait until we move to see another Opera, I am sure there are theatres there too.”

Frowning, Dawn turned to Annandale.

“Your grace” she questioned. “Where exactly is Annandale?” It was a question she had wanted to ask for some time. All she had ever heard was that it was in the north, but no one had mentioned how far north. For all she knew it could be in Scotland.

Her innocent question broke the tension in the box. William laughed uproariously as did his father. It had never occurred to them to explain exactly where the Annandale estates were located.

With tears in his eyes, Annandale replied. “The estates are based near Carlisle, my dear, which is very close to the border with Scotland. When we have settled in I will take you to Edinburgh which is a most beautiful city and you can explore the castle there.”

Dawn was perplexed that her question had caused such hilarity. There were shouts of “Shush” from the audience, and red-faced and still laughing the little party left the box.

The ride home in the carriage was eventful. Buffy and William relayed their conversation with Angelus and how he walked away.

Annandale stared at the couple before his temper finally broke.

“Have you any idea how dangerous that man is or what consequence your actions will have on everyone connected with you.” He blasted at them. “This is not a game to be played by amateurs. The man is dangerous and evil. He will think nothing of either killing one or both of you and he will make sure that no blame comes his way.”

Turning to his son, he continued his tirade. “You should know better than anyone just what the man is capable of, William. For Christ’s sake you slept with his wife for years. Surely in all that time you picked up something of the man’s character. The whole fucking ton knows what he is like, yet you..” he pointed his finger at his son. “who were the closest to his household than anyone in the ton, either do not care or do not know of his past. Were you too fucking drunk or too besotted by that black-hearted whore to care.”

William was stunned by his father’s rant. Annandale had never spoken to him like this in his life, and he did not know how to reply. Angelus was never mentioned while he was with Dru except when she told him that he was going to be home and he could not visit. He had deliberately tuned out any conversations about the man because he was jealous; he honestly knew little of the man.

“I cannot believe him as bad as you say, father, surely he would have stood trial before now had he committed murder.”

Annandale stared at his son in disbelief. “And you are the fruit of my loins? When did you get stupid, boy? The man is a born killer and enjoys what he does. If you do not believe me speak to anyone in the ton, for it is only you who thinks him a prince.” Annandale moved forward in his seat and looked his son in the eye.

“Grow up, William, and grow up fast. The man is dangerous and I believe as mad as his fucking wife. He has never been caught because half the ton is so scared of him that they run out of a room as he enters. What the fucking hell did that bitch put into your head about him. Spit it out, Will, we are all ears.”


Shocked, William opened his mouth to speak but could think of nothing to say. He realised as he tried to answer his father that there were gaps in his memory about his time with Dru. Shaking his head from side to side he tried to conjure up something that would appease his father, but could think of nothing.

In a small voice, he spoke into the darkness of the carriage. “I can’t remember, father. I don’t know why I can’t remember.”

Annandale drew his own conclusion and voiced it to the night. “You were probably so foxed you only remember being with the rancid tart. Christ, the best thing that has ever happened to you has been Buffy. I sincerely hope you appreciate what a wonderful woman you have found.”

Buffy had said nothing as father and son had spoken. She had absorbed every word and while Annandale had spoken she had never taken her eyes from William’s face. He looked stricken, not by his father’s words as much as his inability to remember. He needed comfort and she gently took his hand in hers and rubbed his knuckles.

William looked down at their joined hands then up to her face. She was smiling at him and he returned her smile. For once she was looking at him with love in her eyes and he was overwhelmed by his feelings. Not caring who was in the carriage, he lowered his head and placed a chaste kiss on her lips.

Joyce decided enough was enough. She whole –heartedly agreed with Thomas, but there would be time in the morning to discuss things in more detail. William and Buffy were both upset and needed to be home. As for Dawn, Thomas had used the language of gutter and her youngest was most amused at his new words.

Once they were home, they would all have tea and go to bed. Everything would look better in the morning.

##


William retired to his room and prepared for bed. After the events of the evening, he doubted Buffy would visit him tonight. They had not been together in over a week and he missed her. The one night they had slept in each others arms was etched into his memory and he wanted to repeat the experience.

The thought crept into his head, that his father was correct. He knew he visited Dru often yet he could remember few of their encounters. Mentally shrugging his shoulders, he decided that it must be his mind’s way of removing her from his memory now that he loved Buffy.

His father’s words were still running around his brain. If Angelus was as bad as his father painted, why had he never heard of it. He must remember to speak to Clem about it. Surely his friend would know of the rumours his father mentioned. He wondered if Clem did know anything and if he did why he had never imparted the information to him.

Slowly William walked around the room blowing out the candles. If there was going to be a big confrontation the following day, then he needed his sleep.

In the twilight world just before deep sleep, William could hear someone call his name. His eyelids were too heavy to open and his body was comfortable in its current position. Suddenly he felt the coverlet lift and a warm, naked female body slid in behind him and wrapped themselves around him.

Sleep quickly forgotten, he turned over to lie face to face with Buffy.

“Hello kitten” he mumbled to her.

“Hello Spike” she mumbled in response. “Do you want company tonight or would you prefer to sleep alone?”

William smiled and pushed his tongue behind his teeth. He knew she liked when he did that for her.

“What do you think, kitten.”

In reply, she lifted her hands to either side of his face and drew his lips to hers. They played with each other for a few moments before tongues came out to play. Soon they were holding each other close, skin against skin. Buffy could feel his need against her stomach and could not resist touching him. He bucked into her hand and he never stopped kissing her as his hand went to her breast.

They were rubbing against one another as they kissed. When they stopped to breathe, they looked at each other and knew that this time they would be together as they should be.

Staring at his beautiful blue eyes, Buffy spoke.

“I love you, Spike”

William stared at her for a few seconds as her words sank in. His golden goddess loved him. The biggest grin she had ever seen lit up his face.

“I love you too, Buffy.”

“I know, Spike. Now show me how much.”

He realised immediately that she had given her permission to make love to her as a husband should. Suddenly he was nervous. She was virgin and he wanted to make it as wonderful as possible for her. He did not want her to regret their actions. He wondered why he was nervous, bed-sports he understood. It was making love that he was a novice at.

He lowered his lips to hers and whispered against them. “Do you trust me sweetheart?”

Wrapping her arms tighter around his neck she whispered back. “With my life, Spike.”

His heart swelled at her reply. He would make sure his golden goddess had the time of her life. Before they began in earnest, he felt he had to warn her of what they were about to do.

“Buffy, kitten” he spoke between her nips to his lips. It was taking all his self control to hold back. “Buffy, it is going to hurt and there will be blood. I will be as gentle as I can and we will put a towel under you before I love you. We don’t want the maids gossiping when they change the sheets.”

Buffy giggled into his eyes. “We are to be married in twelve days, Spike. What possible difference could it make.”

“To me and your honour, everything my darling.” He answered. “Please let me do this for you. Let me love you as you deserve. Let me in my sweetheart.”

In awe at his words of love, she stared at him. Slowly she nodded her head and closed her eyes as his lips met hers.

She did not know what it was, but there was something different about the way he was holding her and kissing her. He felt softer and almost tender with her than the other times they had been together. Realisation hit her then. When they had been together before it was a method of release. This was love.

His hands trailed a path over her body with infinite slowness. It was as if he wanted to memorise every part of her. His lips followed his hands, sucking and soothing as they as they went. He spent a long time loving her breasts, each lick and nip and suck taking her further to the edge.

She was moaning and writhing beneath him. Her hands moved trying to connect with his dick, but he moved his body away from her. If she touched him now he would explode and he wanted to be inside her when he came.

Lifting his body from the bed took the biggest effort of his life. He had never wanted a woman they way he wanted Buffy. Smiling at her as she squealed her protest at his departure, he picked up one of the thick towels and folded it carefully to place beneath her. He must remember to ‘accidentally’ cut himself shaving in the morning. That would excuse the bloodstain when the servants changed the towels.

“Lift that delicious bum, kitten, till I get this under you.”

Smiling coquettishly at him, she duly lifted herself up managing to open her legs further as she did so.

“Witch” he breathed into her stomach as he licked around her navel. He lifted his head to look at her as he petted her mound.

“We will need to get rid of this fuzz soon, sweetheart, but not tonight. I won’t last if we take time out to shave your pussy.” He placed his chin on her mound and smiled at her. “I need to make you come before we make love, kitten. I need to make sure you are wet and ready for me. I will play with you like always, but I will be using more fingers to stretch you. If it starts to hurt tell me and I WILL stop.”

Buffy could hardly remember her own name in her excitement. “Just fucking eat me, Spike”

And there she was, the fishwife he was going to marry. Smiling he bent his head.

He licked her until she was pushing her hand into her mouth to stop the cries. He moved his head sideways and kissed her hole as if it was her mouth. Holding her down to keep her still before she broke his neck with her gyrations, he carefully placed one finger into her entrance. He had done this before, but this time he was so tender. When her movements followed those of his finger, he added another.

He watched his fingers disappear inside her and could tell by her face that she was ready to come. With determination he headed straight for her clit with his mouth. He sucked hard while using his tongue to quickly flick it into submission.

At last she came and her juices coated his fingers like the waters from a stream. Not wishing to waste a drop, he coated his engorged dick with her juices.

Buffy was lying replete on the bed with her eyes closed. That had definitely been one of the best orgasms he had ever given her. She could feel her own juice running down her crack and she was amazed she could lose so much.

She heard him before she felt him. “Open your eyes for me, kitten. I need to look into your eyes as I love you.”

Buffy could feel his dick at the entrance to her womb. He was holding himself over her with one hand and was using the other to hold himself at her entrance.

“Please look at me, sweetheart.” He whispered to her. “I am going to love you now, kitten, this may hurt a bit. Just keep looking into my eyes, my love, and everything will be fine.”

Slowly and with infinite care, William pushed inside her. He felt the barrier immediately and he also felt her tense against the pain. It would be best just to press forward and he moved through the barrier and let his body drop on top of her.

He stayed still until she got used to his girth. Placing small kisses all over her face he told her how wonderful it felt to be inside her. How tight she was. How wet she was, How he had never felt anything like her in his life.

How much he loved her.

When he felt her relax he lifted her legs and placed them around his waist. He placed a hand against her hip and moved her against him as he picked up his rhythm. She quickly picked it up and when he removed his hand she moved against him on her own.

He rocked inside her slowly. They had all their lives for a hard fuck, this initiation would be gentle and loving; he would make sure of it.

He was so close now. Her face was soft and yielding and he knew that she, too, was close. It would not take much to drive her over the edge. He could hold back no longer and started to pump harder and faster into her. She matched him stroke for stroke. He moved his angle slightly and knew he had hit that little bundle of nerves inside her when she started to thrash beneath him.

His balls started to tighten in anticipation of his orgasm, and he quickly moved his fingers to her clit and rubbed hard.

Her scream was absorbed by his mouth as he kissed her deeply as they both came. He collapsed on top of her and moved to the side to hold her close to him. They were still joined and William never wanted his dick to leave her.

William held her close against him and kissed her deeply. Smiling down at her he held her tighter than he ever had before.

“That was the best I have ever had, Buffy. You were so wonderful, that I don’t want to leave your pussy. I want to die with my dick in you forever.”

Buffy thought it had been wonderful, too, but she had nothing to compare it to. She had felt a connection with him that went soul deep.

A strange feeling came over her when she felt his softening dick start to leave her. There was a strange squishy sound as his dick left her and she felt wetness run out of her.

Her face gave that strange look that William considered was her disgusted look. He wondered if he had hurt her too much and started to get worried. What if she was so disgusted that she refused to let him near her again. He would simply die.

“What is it, luv. What’s wrong? You don’t look very happy.” He asked, almost scared of the answer.

“Spike I feel all wet and sticky and really quite horrible down there. Is that normal, or is it because it’s my first time.”

William sighed in relief. Gently disentangling himself, he moved from the bed and poured some warm water from the kettle by the fire into his washbowl. He smiled to her as he explained his actions.

“I’m going to clean you up, kitten. Between you and me there is a lot of things we need to get rid of.”
With gentle care, as if he was washing a babe, he moved his washcloth over her pussy until it was clean. Removing the towel from beneath her, he tore it into strips and burned them in the fireplace. He was determined to take no chances with her reputation.

Eventually she felt clean and comfortable and she watched fascinated as Spike cleaned himself up. She grinned at him from the bed and held her arms open to him.

He quickly lifted the coverlet and pulled it up over them as they settled to sleep.

Tomorrow, Buffy decided as she hit the soft world between awake and asleep, tomorrow she would tell him how she had changed her mind and would stay with him forever.

She loved him.

Chapter 60 Waiting

AN* Angelus all the way baby!!!!!






He stood in the shadows of the trees that made up the park in the middle of the square. Waiting had never been an issue for him. He had learned the knack of standing still for hours many years ago. He could feel the wind against his face and the light drizzle of the rain on his eyelashes and hair. Cold rivulets of water penetrated beneath his cravat to wet his cold skin, yet still he did not move. Eyes trained on the door across the street, he waited for them to return.

Soon they would return. He had stood there for over an hour, ignoring the weather and the pain in his legs from standing still so long. It was one of his best talents, waiting.

As the carriage drew closer, he knew his quarry was near. Stepping back further into the shadows, he watched between the branches of a tree. They would not see him unless they looked for him, he had moved away from the light of the streetlamps an hour ago.

The murmur of their voices reached him on the wind. Cheerful laughter echoed across the street and tore at his soul. He wondered why they were happy, they should not be happy. He had started his campaign against them tonight; they should be cowering in fear.

There she was, the girl, the object of his obsession. She was smiling delicately at all the men around her, her eyes sparkling beneath the light from the open doorway. Showing perfect teeth in her pretty face and innocently flirting. He waited while William took her hand along with her sister’s and guided them through the door. As the door closed behind them leaving their patch of street dark and empty, he turned and walked away.

He could wait.

He walked slowly home, thinking and planning. She would be a delicious treat, he thought. All spirit and fire wrapped in a delicious shell. He already thought of her as his new toy, and he did not like others playing with his toys. He must watch her closely.

All he had to do was, wait.

Would he seduce her or just fuck her, he had still to decide. Taking her from William’s protection would be a delicious game, but there was little time before the wedding, and little chance to take her. He must think this through well. He knew he may need some help in his plan, but he knew people who would do anything for a pint of gin.

He only had to wait.

Each step took him closer home and the emptiness within. He thought of his dark angel strapped to her cot in a cold dark room, and his manhood stirred. Dru liked to be tied down and would be relishing in her confinement, would he were there with her. The games they could play in the darkened room in Bedlam. Everyone would ignore the screams. He would visit her tomorrow and try and secure her release.

He would have to wait.

Prinny’s summons was sitting in the library needing his attention. He would have to toad up to the self-indulgent fool and obsequious flattery was not in his make-up. He would have to be very good at it by Wednesday and his interview with Prinny or he would never get his Dru back. His solution would be to tell the prince he was taking her back to Ireland. Prinny would accept that, he was sure. He would have his dark angel back soon.

If only he could wait.

As he approached his door, his plans now fixed in his head, he thought of all the people he would hurt. He did not think of them in sympathy, he thought of them as a list of candidates for his retribution. It had been some time since his last bout of terror and his gut tightened in anticipation. The girl would be last on his list. He might start with Telford. Men were out looking for him now, his direction paramount to his plans. Men who were owned by him and loyal to him, and most of all paid well by him. Information was key in any threat, and he was determined his information be correct.

He only had to wait.

Entering his home, he handed his topcoat to the footman waiting in the hall and bid him find brandy. The butler entered cautiously with the decanter as upsetting the master did not bode well for a quiet night. Carefully pouring the brandy into a goblet, he was pleased to receive his dismissal. Keeping the master happy until the mistress returned was essential to the steady running of the house. His master called for the maids to be lined up in the hallway to allow him to pick his bed mate for the night. Cook would be on hand to clean up their wounds in the morning.

They would all have to wait.

Retiring to his bed with his toy under his arm, he made her strip him and pleasure him with her mouth. He had used this one before and she knew how he liked his women to behave, and would give him no trouble. He could lose himself in her for an hour or two then send her back to the servant’s quarters. The exercise would help him sleep. He needed a clear head for the morrow and the information he would receive from his people.

He could hardly wait.

Her back bleeding and his manhood spent, the maid returned to the scullery. She had been a wonderful diversion, but now his head was full of business. He was undecided which man to go for first, maybe Telford, maybe Craven. Thinking clearly now he decided Craven should be first. His death would put a cloud over the wedding and may make the girl and her family careless. Yes, he thought, he would most definitely start with Craven, and soon.

It can be such fun to wait.

His sleep was not tortured by dreams as others may be. His conscience had left him almost in the cradle. He was all powerful now; he needed no man to tell him his path in life. It had been foretold by the chovihani of the local gypsies, that he would one day be feared throughout the land. She had called him rom baro, or king, in their language as she had rocked his cradle. She had petted him and loved him as a child. He had killed her on his tenth birthday with his pistol as she tried to curse his soul. She was the first he had killed and the one he remembered with pleasure. Dying on her knees while she begged him to let her cleanse his soul had been one of his finest moments. It had been his first blood and still his best. Craven would die exactly the same way.

It would be delicious to wait.

His minions arrived before luncheon with the news that Telford kept a woman in Kensington and had stayed there the previous day and night. They had followed him to Clarence House and correctly assumed he was visiting the prince. Leaving a man there to watch for his dismissal, the others had returned to their master with their knowledge. Their master would reward them well for this task. Paying them well, he wrote down the direction of Telford’s home. He might pay her a visit soon and show her what a real man was like between the sheets instead of a whey-faced Lord. He must arrange a wild goose chase for Telford. Then he would visit his whore.

It would be worth the wait.

He would leave Craven to stew in fear for a few more days. The closer to the wedding for his funeral the better it would be. The Summers household would be in mourning and the wedding would be a muted affair. No celebrations to mark the occasion, just the family and close friends. The wedding of the season would be ruined, and his girl would cry. He must remember to give her something to take away the tears.

There was nothing quite as peaceful as sitting back to wait.

Chapter 61 The Regent’s Power



AN* Thank you all again and again for your reviews – Please all thank Mollie for encouraging me out of a slump. Yea Mollie!!!!!



As for MRS, Serenity and Eve – you all know how I feel.





Clem decided to drop in to the Craven household and let them know of his conversation with the Prince. A warm feeling washed over him when he entered the drawing room as the whole family greeted him volubly. Surprised to see the whole family together, he was coerced into telling all about his visit to the Prince.

He told them of the grandeur of the visit and of all the members of the ton who had gathered there. The ladies, understandably, were more interested in the female members of Prince’s acquaintance, and he had to think hard to remember how each was dressed and how nice their manners were.

Once he had described the inside of Clarence House, and its inhabitants, it fell to William to finally ask what had transcribed between he and the Prince. Slightly hesitant, he took his time informing them that the Prince had elevated him from a Lord to an Earl.

Silence prevailed over the room for a few moments; all were stunned at his declaration. Annandale rose from his place on the sofa and walked calmly over to Clem. He bowed in deference to his new title, and shook his hand.

“Well deserved my boy. I am so pleased for you.”

Once Annandale had spoken the silence of the room was shattered by the amount of questions he was barraged with. Did he have a country seat? Did he have to enter parliament now? Was he happy? What was he the Earl of?

He answered all the questions with smiles; yes he was happy, yes he would have to enter parliament. He proudly informed them that his new title was The Earl of Strathaven; and he had not been given a country estate as he had informed the Prince that he had recently acquired one.

Dawn jumped into the conversation as only young girls can, and asked him where his new estate would be. He told her of Annandale and William’s offer to sell him the Dower Estate of the Annandale’s and how he would soon be their neighbour when they moved to the north.

Ecstatic that she would not be losing her new friend when they left London, Dawn ran up to Clem and gave him a huge hug. Clem wrapped his arms around her and returned the affectionate gesture before slowly pushing her back from him.

“I have another announcement to make.”

All eyes turned upon him as the little party were silenced in anticipation.

Clem cleared his throat before he began. “Yesterday I had the pleasure of making the woman I love my wife.”

Stunned silence greeted this statement. With the exception of William and Annandale none knew he even had a particular female friend. William decided to let Clem tell the family as much of Faith’s history as he felt they needed to know. He would keep his friend’s confidence, and back up whatever story he told the Craven family.

“My wife is Lady Faith Willbourne, eldest daughter of the Earl of Avonbridge. She was cast out by her family over ten years ago thanks to a bastard who abused her and convinced her father that she had been a willing participant. I will not go into details of how she lived for the first five years, but I will say that she has been part of my life for the last five.”

He paused a moment to gather his thoughts before he continued. If the Craven family gave Faith the cut direct, he would never see them again. He had to be sure they would accept her once they moved north. Clem would not be happy at losing William and Buffy’s friendship, but his first priority was his wife.

“Faith will never be accepted by society in London. Her reputation, thanks to the bastard who hurt her, can never be repaired. She is frightened to walk the London streets and will hardly leave the house for fear of being recognised.”

He lifted his head high as he continued his tale.

“Annandale and William have kindly offered to sell me the Dower estate which I have accepted. Faith and I will be moving north as soon as any repairs are made to the house. I would like to know now if you have any objections to living next door to someone with her past. If you do, please voice them now before I accept William’s offer and buy the Dower House.”

Silence prevailed once more in the drawing room. Clem let out a long sigh of regret. It was obvious that ton prejudice would result in the end of his friendship with William and his new family.

Buffy was the first to speak.

“Well, I must say Clem, that you have indeed shocked us today.”

Clem’s face fell at her statement, he wondered how long it would be before he was asked to leave the house and never return.

Buffy smiled at Clem before she continued.

“I am most disappointed in you, Clem. If you had but told us of your plans I am sure my mother, sister and I would have been most delighted to be part of the wedding party.”

Deliberately ignoring the look of astonishment on Clem’s face, she continued.

“I take that is where William was most of yesterday afternoon?”

Clem just nodded in response, too shocked to say anything.

Once more she smiled at Clem. “Well he will pay for not informing me of his whereabouts yesterday, Clem, I promise you. As for not accepting your bride I do not see a problem. If she loves a wonderful man like you then she is more worthy of the ton’s respect rather than its scorn.”

The Duchess moved forward to Clem and shook his hand.

“Clem, please bring Faith to meet us tomorrow evening for dinner. If we are to be neighbours when we move, then I believe we should get to know one another before then.”

Clem could not believe his ears. The Craven family were determined to accept Faith into their society and he was undeniably pleased. He was not sure he would be able to persuade Faith to leave the house to visit them, but he would do his best. He felt he had to tell them some truths.

“I will ask her, your grace, but I am not sure I will be able to persuade her. Faith’s past is something she does not like to share, and she will be afraid that everyone will ask questions of her. She does not like to lie and would be most embarrassed should anyone try to draw her on the subject.”

Joyce just smiled at Clem before responding.

“Do not worry, Clem, we will ask her nothing. Tomorrow’s talk will be all about estate management, new clothes and the plans for William and Buffy’s wedding.”

Annandale walked up to Joyce’s side and placed his hand on Clem’s shoulder.

“Move north at the same time as us, Clem. There will be more than enough room in Annandale to accommodate us all. Stay with us until the Dower House is habitable. We can all get to know Faith better and she can start to feel safe with us.” Annandale squeezed Clem’s shoulder tighter. “Please Clem. You know that we would be glad to have you both.”

Clem could not help himself. He grabbed Annandale towards him and hugged the man hard.

“I don’t know how to thank you all. This would be the best thing for Faith and I can’t wait to get her out of London. If it was not for the fact that I will be walking Buffy down the aisle, we would leave within days. I have to get her out of London soon.”

William, although silent throughout the little drama played out before him, could feel the sting of tears at the back of his throat. Clem had been a truly great friend to him and if Buffy and had her mother had not accepted Faith, he would still have found a way to keep in contact with them. It was the strength of character displayed by both Joyce and Buffy to go against all that the ton required of its members that impressed him the most.

He wondered how he had ever existed without her. She had become his life.

“Clem,” William said. “I have another proposition for you. Why don’t you and Faith make your way to Annandale as soon as you wish, and my father will give Buffy away?”

Joyce looked at William and a huge smile lit her face.

“Why William, that is a wonderful idea. I am sure Buffy will not mind, and we can always tell the Prince that a Duke should really give away a Duke’s daughter. He will be most satisfied with the new arrangements I am sure. I will write to him tomorrow and tell him of the changes we wish to make.”

Buffy smiled at Annandale with affection. “I would be honoured, your grace, if you would accept my mother’s proposal and walk me down the aisle.”

Annandale beamed at the little group before him. It had been a long time since he had felt so much part of a family. He was he realised, for the first time in fifteen years, content.






The following day at precisely two of the clock, Lord Liam Angelus arrived at Clarence House for an audience with his Regent. He had spent an hour that morning with Drusilla, but it had not been one of her lucid days. This time when he visited she had at least been bathed and dressed in clean clothes sent from his house. They had tied her to the bed again while she ranted and raved over bad puppies and sunshine, and he was disappointed she had not recognised him.

Even tied to the bed and incoherent, he had felt her pull. She looked glorious in her bound state, even with her wandered mind. Angelus knew of old that she was at her most dangerous like this and ensured he did not look into her eyes. She had controlled many of her ciscebo with her talents, and the one time she had managed to mesmerise him he had woken with no recollection of time. He had not liked the feeling and had made her promise never to try and put him under her spell again. He left the hospital with a promise to return.

As he showed his summons to the guards stationed at the gates of Clarence House, he went over in his head just what to say to the Prince. He would promise to take her to Ireland out of the way. It was an idle promise as he had no intention of taking Dru to his home in Ireland. He would get her out, as was his duty, then he would decide what to do with her. She had become too dangerous to keep but too useful to die. He would have to find a way.

He was led to the main hall where the Prince held court. He quickly realised his humiliation was to be a public affair, and inwardly he swore revenge. Knowing he could not kill his Regent, and get away with the murder as he had done in the past, stuck in his throat. His revenge would have to be very subtle and subdued. He would think of something.

As he approached the dais where the Prince sat, he carefully schooled his features to one of sorrow. He knew that prinny would not be sympathetic to him if he walked in displaying the rage that was in his heart for this man and his aides.

He preferred to wait.

The Prince of Wales was not a handsome man nor one of good manners. His father was mad and his brothers displayed a far greater intelligence than he. However he was, while his father’s illness continued, the acting King. He spoke, his subjects listened and obeyed. He may not be popular with the lower classes of his people, in fact they hated him, but the members of the ton relied on his largesse for their order in society.

Angelus knelt on one knee in front of the Prince as was the custom. To bow to any man went against his nature, but he would curb it for the day. The Prince took great satisfaction in seeing the feared Lord Angelus almost prostrate at his feet, and did not give his permission to rise for some time.

As Angelus rose and looked his sovereign in the eye, he knew that the man was on a mission to destroy. Dru’s outburst must have wounded him deeply, yet it was he who would feel the pain. He would lash her to within an inch of her life when he got her home.

“Angelus” the Prince began. “I am sure you know why you have been summoned here today. I would like you to give me an account of your wife’s behaviour.”

Angelus instinctively knew that he was expected to agree with her incarceration. He would have to tread carefully to ensure her release.

“I do not know, your highness, I believe she may have gone mad without my presence to guide her. I have been gone long on my estates in Ireland and have neglected my duties towards her.”

He bowed his head hoping the Prince would see the gesture as one of humility.

“Indeed Angelus, she has been without your presence for some time. If it were not for Kirkbride and Athelstone she would have run amok at the Craven ball. You should be thankful they had the presence of mind to attend to her care.”

Angelus felt his rage reach enormous proportions as he finally learned the name of the man who had helped Kirkbride. He knew of him and would send his minions to find his direction. Athelstone would pay, just like the rest.

Bowing his head in what could be considered a thankful gesture; Angelus readied himself to make his proposal for the removal of his wife.

“I would like to take my wife from Bedlam, sire, and remove her to Ireland where I may take care of her for her lifetime. It would free a room in the hospital, and my wife would no longer be in the country. If you accept my proposal, sire, I will remove her today and we will be on a boat to Cork by tomorrow.”

The Prince looked down at Angelus for some time. Drusilla’s insult had been the outside of enough and he did not want the woman to enjoy any type of life other than that which she currently held. He was determined she would stay in Bedlam,

“I think not, Angelus. It was quite plain to all who attended the ball that your wife, sir, has lost all reason. I insist that she stay in Bedlam until the trustees believe her fit for human society. I do not believe that state of mind could be accomplished with only a few days treatment.”

Angelus opened his mouth to protest.

The Prince lifted his hand to stop Angelus’ words.

“I have spoken to you of my decision, Angelus. There is nothing more to say. You may leave now.” And with that statement said, the Prince lifted his eyes from Angelus and looked away.

There was no one in the room that missed the gesture. As far as the regent was concerned Angelus no longer existed.

As he walked through the throng of people in the hall to make his exit, they all turned from him.

Lord William Whitmore and Lady Elizabeth Summers would pay for his disgrace this day.

Once he had dealt with Craven.

Chapter 62 Craven’s Loss





Angelus had sent his minions to check on the whereabouts of Craven. They had been watching his home in Chelsea since Monday evening when the couple had returned early from the theatre. They were also present when Craven left the following morning for Craven Hall. Following behind at a discreet distance, they took their time and stayed well back from his carriage. It did not take a genius to work out where the man would go.

It took almost a full day to reach the Hall, and the two men put up in the Inn situated in the local village. Their instructions were clear, and they usually did their job well. They had been instructed to watch Craven and find out his habits, especially when he went riding. His death must look like an accident.

Back in London, Angelus visited Drusilla every day. His purpose was not to sit with a sick wife, but to try and glean as much information about Whitmore as he could. He needed to know who was close to him and whom he would miss were they gone. His plans for William were coming along nicely.

Craven was always going to be the first. The man, in Liam’s eyes, had manipulated Drusilla into a situation that ended with her incarceration. The man would pay with his soul for his actions.

Within two days word reached him of his prey’s habits when out for his daily ride. His minions had scouted the area well and knew where and when Craven took his daily sojourn. It would be a simple matter to set up the ‘accident’ that would befall the Duke. The matter of his alibi must be thought out well.

It occurred to him then that the perfect alibi would be Craven’s mistress. He would pay the whore a visit and fuck her while her protector died. What poetic justice that would be. His visits to Drusilla had informed him of Craven’s tastes. Lady Catherine would indeed be a tasty morsel to slake his lust until Drusilla’s release.

Plans were already in place at the Craven estate. His minions were paid well for their work. Traps were set in the woods where Craven rode. All that was required was the man himself to take his daily ride. The man would die while he paid a charming visit to Lady Catherine.





Angelus walked up to the door of the little house in Chelsea where Lady Catherine still lived. Knocking loudly to proclaim his arrival, he waited on the butler opening the door. He drew a card from a small silver case and asked for an audience with the mistress of the house. Laughing to himself at the use of the phrase ‘mistress of the house’, as that was exactly what the woman had been.

He was bid into the hall while the butler left to determine if Lady Catherine would see this unknown visitor. Angelus had no intention in leaving without an audience with Catherine. If she was not ‘at home’, he would wait.

He liked to wait.

Angelus made himself comfortable in one of the chairs in the hall, and settled in to wait. Removing his beaver hat, he crossed his legs and laid his cane and hat in his lap. He eyes strayed with no particular interest to the cheap paintings on the wall. It was something to do until he was honoured by Catherine’s presence.

In her small sitting room, Catherine began to shake when she read the name on the card. She could not imagine why Lord Liam Angelus was paying her a visit. The state the man had left Henry in when he had talked to him outside the box at the theatre was indelibly etched in her mind.

It occurred to her then that he must wish Henry’s direction. It would not take long to impart the information Angelus required, after all she had no particular reason to protect him. She would be homeless and destitute in less than a month.

Maybe Angelus would pay for Henry’s direction.

She nodded to the butler that she would receive her visitor. There was little in the way of strong drink in the house to offer her guest, but she bid the butler to find whatever he could and serve it as soon as possible.

As the butler left to fetch Angelus, Catherine stood and waited. She would not be cowed by the man, he was nothing to her and once he knew where Henry was currently living, he would be out of her life forever.




The door of her sitting room opened and the butler announced his Lordship. As the door closed behind him, Angelus looked Catherine over from the top of her elaborate hairstyle to the indoor slippers she wore.

“Why, you look absolutely lovely today, Lady Catherine.” Angelus smiled at the woman. “I am so glad that you decided to allow me to visit.”

Catherine looked at him warily. The man was undoubtedly handsome and there was a sparkle in his eyes. Any threat she initially felt upon seeing his name on the calling card left her breast. The man’s quarrel was with Henry, she had nothing to fear. As the fear subsided, she smiled a charming smile and tilted her head coquettishly.

“I thank you, Lord Angelus. Would you care to sit while we wait for some brandy? I am sure you would not care for tea and would prefer a more stimulating drink.”

Angelus smiled at Catherine. This was almost too easy. The woman before him was still smarting from the betrayal of Craven. He would enjoy tormenting this one.

“A woman who can anticipate a man’s needs, is rare indeed, Catherine.” He smiled his most seductive smile and lowered his voice. His Irish lilt was thick as he asked. “You do not mind me calling you Catherine, my Lady, as I am sure we could become close friends.”

The thought rose into her mind then that Angelus might be looking for more than Henry’s direction. He was much more pleasant to look at than Henry, and his clothes did not hide his fine figure. As she contemplated his almost proposal to become his mistress, the butler entered with the decanter and proceeded to pour Angelus a glass.

She dismissed her butler as soon as the glass was in Angelus’ hands.

“Tell me, my Lord, why do you believe we could become close friends?”

His smile lit his whole face as he replied. “Why, Catherine, I know you have no protector now and as I have no wife at home, I think that we could come to some sort arrangement beneficial to us both.”

Catherine stared in confusion at the man before her. Surely he did not want Henry’s cast-offs. She had to make sure she did not misinterpret his meaning.

“My Lord,” she began.

Angelus raised his hand stopped her mid-sentence.

“Call me Liam, my dear, or Angelus if you prefer.”

She felt a blush rise to her cheeks. “If you wish….Liam”

Smiling at her once more, he replied. “Indeed I do wish, Catherine. The sound of my name on your lips is indeed a pleasure.”

The blush on Catherine’s cheeks became more pronounced and Angelus inwardly smiled. She would be so easy to seduce, obviously Craven had used her only for pleasure and had never made any effort with the woman. He would do the same, once he got her into bed.

“I will come straight to the point, Catherine. I have needs that I feel only you can help me with. My wife, as you are aware, is not available to me at the moment and I think you know the type of pleasure we both enjoy.”

All doubt over his intentions left her at that moment. The man was proposing a liaison which might benefit them both. She needed to discuss terms; she would not be used without some money changing hands. If she was to be used like a Haymarket Whore, she wanted money up front.

Catherine looked hard at Angelus, before she replied.

“Indeed, Liam, I am quite proficient in certain elements of pleasure. Am I correct in thinking that these elements of pleasure are to your taste?”

As Angelus nodded his reply and continued to bestow on her his most amazing smile, he thought to himself that if the woman was any good, he may visit her again.

“Before we make this a more ‘permanent’ arrangement, my dear, I would be honoured if you would demonstrate some of your skill for my benefit.”

Catherine realised then that she had become a true whore. She was willing to bed this man, not for love, but for the money he would provide.

Smiling at Angelus, she laid her terms.

“I would be most happy to demonstrate my skills, Liam, however I must insist on something on account.”

Angelus could not help but laugh. The woman was mercenary and if she was this professional then the pleasure would be worth it.

“How much, Catherine?” he asked

She sat in the chair and thought for a few moments about the paltry amount left to her by Craven. It would be good to supplement her income with this encounter, but she was unsure what to charge. If it was too small, he would not respect her and if the amount was too large he may not be willing to pay.

Angelus was looking thoughtfully at her as she pondered prices in her head. It was fun to watch her try to decide what amount to demand. He would pay no more that twenty pounds; he would not be fleeced by any woman.

“I will ask for ten pounds on this occasion, Liam. If you feel that another visit would be required, then we will talk terms again.”

Satisfied that he would have an alibi and a fuck for the paltry sum of ten pounds, Angelus smiled at Catherine. His hand moved to the inside of his coat and withdrew a roll of soft. He counted out the amount she had asked for and placed it on the small table at his side.

“There you are, Catherine, ten pounds for my pleasure.” His smile turned slightly menacing and Catherine wondered if she had made the right decision. It did not matter, ten pounds was not to be sneezed at when one needed money.

She rose regally from her chair and smiled at Angelus.

“Would you care to follow me, Liam, there is a special room in the upper storey that you may find interesting.”

Anticipation ran through his veins. A special room indeed, he hoped it was well stocked with the tools of her trade.





Craven was in his stables demanding his best hunter be saddled and ready for his ride. He had been in the country but a few days and already boredom had firmly set in. His only solace was a hard ride through the woods on one of his horses.

It never occurred to him that he had already settled in to a routine anyone could determine. He may be bored, but he felt safe on his estate. He was the master of all he surveyed; there would be no visits from Angelus so far from London.

As he mounted his horse, he felt content. A good hard ride was definitely in order today. He had been two days without Catherine and had started to miss the pleasure she gave him. He wondered as to where he could find that type of pleasure near his home. He must start to look around soon for her replacement. He was not a man to give up his pleasure easily.

He rode hard towards Craven Wood. The path through the trees was well travelled and he would encounter no obstacles to his ride. There were some twists and turns along the path, but he had grown up at the Hall and knew the woods well.

Riding at full gallop, Henry held himself low over the horse’s neck. As he rounded a sharp bend in the path, his horse was struck by what appeared to be a broken branch level with it’s chest.

The horse screamed and reared. Craven used all his horsemanship to stay on it’s back, but it was a futile exercise. Gripping the reins to stop the horse from galloping off, he launched himself from the saddle to the ground. He landed in a soft bed of leaves and breathed a sigh of relief that he would survive his fall with only a few bruises.

His hands were holding tightly to the reins as the still rearing horse, angry at being confined and in pain, turned on its master.

Rearing on its hind legs, the horse found its target. As Henry looked up in horror, his favourite horse brought down his front legs directly to the side of his master’s head.

Within moments, the Duke of Craven was dead.

Chapter 63 Calm before the storm




Clem and Faith had started their journey northwards as soon as transport could be arranged. They were almost hot on the heels of Xander and Giles and hoped to make good enough time to catch them up. Annandale had already expressed concern at the amount of money the two men were transporting, and had suggested to Clem that he and Faith accompany them.

They could not far behind the men now. Good roads and Faith’s happiness at leaving London behind had made the journey a pleasant one. Faith had packed only what she needed for the journey, content to leave her old attire behind. In her eyes it was the trappings of her whoredom, and she was a respectable married lady now.

Her husband had been of the same mind. Clothes could be purchased in Carlisle as easily as London. His wife’s haste to leave a city which mocked her had become his prime concern. The further away from London their carriage travelled, the happier his wife became.

Having made good time, they had less than a few days travel to go. They had arrived in Preston at nearly ten in the evening and had quickly procured an Inn for the night. On arrival they found they were but one day behind Xander and Giles, and were determined to make an early start in the morning.

With the candles dimming and the fire burning low, the couple snuggled together under the blankets. The had made love for over an hour and were now lying sated and warm beneath the sheets, the only sound in the room being the quite rhythm of their breathing. Clem held his wife close to his breast, delighting in the feel of her hair across his torso.

Without warning, Faith’s breathing became harsh and uneven. Clem knew from experience that she was in the throes of some old nightmare. Many times he had held her when she was lost in her own mind. Damaged she may be, but he hoped he would help her heal.

This time it was different. Faith was not just tossing and turning as was her usual want, she was kicking and punching. Clem stood quickly from the bed shivering in the cold air. He had never seen her like this before. Always she calmed when he held, this time she seemed determined to fight him in her sleep.

He watched her carefully from the side of the bed, determined that he not wake her. Learning long ago that waking her during one of these episodes was not he best way to deal with her demons, he stood silently praying the dream would pass.

Within moments of his vigil, she started to speak. She had never spoken before when she was like this, and he almost forgot his promise to himself not to wake her. He sat on the bed next to his thrashing wife, carefully avoiding her unconscious blows and kicks. As her hand came near, he grabbed it and held on.

He could only make out the occasional word, and only then if she shouted. Watching the sweat gather on her brow, he wondered how he could bring her back. Gently he rubbed his fingers across her knuckles hoping the gesture would calm her. Clearly it did not. Her thrashing became more pronounced until she sat straight up in bed and, with eyes wide open, stared silently at the opposite wall.

Her grip on Clem’s hand was fierce. He could feel his fingers go numb and start to swell. It was as if she had spasmed around his hand and could not pull herself free. He started to twitch with the pain, twisting and turning from side to side trying to break her hold.

Within moments he was free as she abruptly let his hand go. He immediately held the injured hand to his chest and tried to rub the blood back into his fingers. Slowly she turned her head in his direction as her sense returned.

Staring into his eyes she muttered, “Clem, we did not tell William about Angelus”

Still rubbing his hand while trying to get back under the covers to her warmth, Clem smiled his reply.

“I know, sweetheart, but Annandale has left him in no doubt that the man will be out for revenge and he has insisted that Buffy and Will go nowhere on their own.” Life was returning to his hand as moved down the bed to hold her to him.

She quickly turned to lie in his arms. This was the only man who made her feel safe and protected from the world she had been forced to inhabit for so long. There was much of her time with Trenton that she had not told him, or ever would, and she hoped that once settled on their new estate her memories would no longer haunt her dreams.

Clem held her tightly against him, and with his good hand drew lazy patterns on her back. He knew she enjoyed being soothed this way, and was glad to feel her start to relax.

“Do you want to tell me about the nightmare, Faith?” he whispered over the top of her head.

Faith snuggled even closer, if that were possible, and he felt her shake her head negatively.

“Not tonight, Clem. We are almost home now and I think I need a little more time.”

Deciding to change the subject, she lifted her head slightly and smiled up at her husband.

“I think William has found his perfect bride, Clem. The whole family welcomed me even knowing what Trenton had made me become. They did not judge me on his actions, but on how I welcomed them as friends.” Intently, she looked at him, “I will not forget that kindness, Clem, and one day I well repay it.”

Clem could see how serious she was. He moved his hand from her back and gently started to play with her hair. “I know, sweetheart. When the Annandales join us in a few weeks time, we will sit down with Will and Buffy and talk about Angelus.”

Faith frowned at Clem before she replied. “It might be too late by then, Clem. I do not think Angelus will wait until they are married to extract some revenge. The man is an animal.”

He did not know what to say to her in reply. She was right, Angelus was an animal and they were too far on their journey now to return. A sudden thought struck him.

“Would you feel alright about talking to Lord Alexander, sweetling? We could tell him of some of Angelus’ tricks and let him convey the message when he returns to London.”

Faith lifted herself on one elbow and smiled brightly at him.

“Yes, Clem. Thank you for thinking of that. When we reach Annandale, we will speak to Lord Alexander.” She started to get excited and sat up in the bed. Looking down at Clem, her eyes shone in anticipation. “We will write William a letter and let him know what to look out for. He will be put on his guard and that may help him.” She clapped her hands in delight, and Clem was struck at how childlike she looked in her glee.

“Yes, that is what will do, Clem. We will write William and Buffy a letter when we get to Annandale.”

Smiling benignly at his excited wife, Clem drew her into his arms.

##


Buffy’s wedding dress and trousseau were finally complete. The household had been set about its ears for two days as each new parcel had been delivered. Annandale and William had been banished to their clubs, as the women of the household unpacked, tried on and repacked the various items ready for their journey north.

Joyce had not been well of late and her girls had insisted she sit quietly in her suite as they paraded their new clothes up and down her sitting room. The duchess was in her element. Her two beautiful girls were happy and content. Both girls were excited to be dressed up in their finery for their mother’s approval. Joyce was happy that Buffy had finally found love with William, she believed that away form the influence of Drusilla Angelus he was turning out to be a wonderful young man.

Dawn, with the exuberance of youth, was pleased to have a new wardrobe. As with all young girls, she most concerned with her appearance and was pleased that the modiste their mother engaged had made clothes which suited her so well. There were day dresses, walking dresses, two new riding habits as well as all the accessories she would ever need. Her mother watched, smiling, as she danced around the room.

“I can hardly wait to leave, mama.” Dawn smiled at her mother as she pirouetted around the room. “We will have such fun at Annandale, especially with Clem and Faith living so close.”

Her mother smiled at her youngest daughter in delight. Her children had always been her one solace in her loveless marriage, and she was glad they would all be living together. Thomas had spoken to her of how he had persuaded Xander to join them for the hunting season. Soon they would all be under one roof without Henry’s influence in their lives.

Joyce was also happy with Annandale. He came to her room every night and took her to the stars just as he promised. She truly felt like a woman who was loved while in his arms, and should the relationship be nothing more than a flirtation for him, she did not care. For now she was happy and that happiness appeared to be infecting her children too.

Dawn stopped her dancing around the room as the door to her mother’s chamber opened and Buffy walked in dressed in her full wedding finery. Willow had carefully dressed her hair and attached her veil with the Craven tiara. It had been the one piece of jewellery Joyce had kept back from the sale, and looking at how beautiful her daughter looked, she was glad.

Buffy looked resplendent. The dress was perfect. White silk overlaid with golden lace. The lace had been used to fashion the veil and set against the brilliance of the diamonds, the effect was almost ethereal. Willow has styled Buffy’s hair into the Grecian Knot which complimented the tiara perfectly.

Tears came unbidden to Joyce’s eyes at the sight of her daughter. She stood up from her chair and walked towards her holding out her arms. Buffy ran into her mother’s arms and let herself be hugged tightly.

“You look absolutely beautiful, my dear. You will make me so proud when you walk down the aisle on Thomas’ arm. I cannot wait to see William’s face when he sees you.”

Smiling at her mother as she pulled back to stand in the middle of the room, Buffy replied.

“I know exactly how William will react, mama. I cannot wait to see his face too.” She laughed at her own comment. “I will go and dress for dinner now, mama. The men will be returning soon and I do not want to be late.”

Joyce nodded and intimated that she would do the same. Her Thomas would be home soon and she wanted to look nice for him.


##

William and his father were sitting quietly in White’s, drinking slowly from their brandy goblets and catching up on news. Clem’s elevation to Earldom had already been mentioned on a few occasions, and his absence since the event had been commented upon too. William had easily fielded all queries by mentioning that Clem had been called to his new estate. His marriage to Lady Faith was no one’s concern.

As the clock struck seven, Annandale rose.

“I think it’s time to return to our ladies, Will. I feel the pressing need to return home.”

William smiled at his father as he rose from his chair.

“Indeed, father. I, too, have a pressing need to see my betrothed.”

Annandale nodded in understanding as the men left the club.

Their carriage was waiting, John Coachman at the ribbons. Father and son were laughing and obviously in high spirits and the old retainer would soon be regaling tales below stairs of their master’s happiness. They had been given instructions to close up the Annandale town house; all the furniture had been covered and the knocker removed from the door. The older servants had already been transported back the estates, and only a small number of staff were retained to keep the house in order.

Everything was going well with their plans for the wedding and the move.

The implied threat of Angelus had almost been forgotten.

##

He had not forgotten them.

His minions continued to track the Annandale and Craven families every move. At ten of the clock every morning, a meeting was held in the Angelus home discussing the latest news of their lives. He had been less successful with his reports on Telford as the man appeared to have disappeared off the face of the earth. Hearing that Telford had left London with his doxy in tow, he had sent men out on all the roads from London to find him.

He could wait for his revenge on Clem. There were others waiting in the wings for him to practice his skills upon. Athelstone would be the next in line for his blend of torture, he decided. Kirkbride was too entrenched at court to be missed.

Athelstone was a different matter entirely.

According to his minions, Athelstone would be visiting him tonight.

Chapter 64 The Second Time


AN* This is for Verda – thank you my dear




Buffy had not visited William since the night after the betrothal ball. He had not wanted to push her too far in asking her to return to his bed, but he was desperate to hold her. Tonight at dinner, she had sat beside him and, on occasion, had rubbed her leg against his. With each small movement, she had turned him on beyond belief. He could not believe he was sitting down to dinner, next to his love, wanting nothing more than to fuck her over the silverware.

After dinner, he had managed to get her alone in the hall. “Buffy, kitten, will you come and see me tonight?”

She lifted her hand and stroked his face lovingly. “I think I might be healed by now Spike, but I will need something from you.”

Perplexed by her words, he frowned down at her. “What do you want, luv? You know I will give you anything.”

Moving closer to him she wound her arms around his neck. “I need lots of things, Spike, but what I need most is for you to help me scratch an itch.”

William’s arms tightened around her and pulled her close. “What itch would that be, pet?”

Buffy lifted herself onto her toes and whispered against his lips. “Make sure your razor is nice and sharp before I visit tonight, and make sure you are nice and clean for me. I still feel a little hungry and may need something to eat.”

His mouth was on hers almost before she had finished her little speech. She opened her mouth immediately and their tongues were soon fighting for dominance. William could take it no longer. She had teased him all night at dinner, and now she was asking him to perform a service that would give them both pleasure. He lifted his mouth from hers and begged against her lips.

“Please come to me tonight, sweetheart. If you do not, then I swear I will come to you and I will not care how much I shock your maid.”

Buffy laughed in his arms. “Willow has already been shocked out of her wits, Spike. You should have seen her face the first time she saw my shaved pussy.”

William laughed along with her and cuddled her against his chest. “I’ve not seen it in too long a time, sweetheart. Are you going to come to me tonight?”

She nodded her head and kissed him once more.

“I want to go to bed now, Spike. I’m not sure I can wait for you much longer.”

“Then let’s go, pet. I doubt they will come looking for us if we disappear now.”

William took her hand and led her to his room.


##


Dawn had retired to bed some time since, leaving Annandale and Joyce alone in the drawing room. Knowing his son and his feelings for Buffy, he very much doubted they would see the couple again that evening. He looked over at the beautiful duchess and smiled.

“Joyce, sweetheart, how are you feeling tonight.” He asked, a smile creeping over his face.

Joyce blushed becomingly and smiled back. “Quite well this evening, Thomas, and you?”

Annandale laughed at her attempt to engage him in small talk. “Joyce, when I get you upstairs you are going to pay a high price for teasing me.”

She laughed softly and looked at him. “How much will the price be, Thomas? I am rather a rich woman, although you will need to wait until after the wedding to receive payment.”

He stood and walked over to her. Holding out his hand for her to take, he clasped her palm in his. Drawing her up to him, he enfolded her in his arms. He was over-awed at the look of adoration on her face as she looked up at him. How could he not fail to love this wonderful, gentle woman?

“Joyce,” he whispered to her. “Come to bed, my love. I need you so much tonight.”

Joyce thought she might take the teasing a little further. “What do you require in payment, Thomas? We have not yet discussed a price.”

Annandale looked into her wonderful eyes, and replied. “I want your heart, Joyce. Just your heart.”

Joyce noticed the sincerity in her lover’s eyes and the proprietary way he held her.

“Then you don’t need to wait till after the wedding, Thomas, for you have had my heart for some time.”

Using all the skill he possessed he kissed her until she almost melted in his arms.

He decided, at that moment, that he would never let her go.


##


Lying naked side by side on Spike’s bed the two lovers were stroking each others bodies as if re-learning each other. They had already removed the small amount of fuzz that had grown on her pussy and were now lying in a post-orgasmic haze. The had not yet had full intercourse as the act of shaving and ‘clearing up’ had caused them both to come.

Spike rose over Buffy and kissed her lightly on the nose.

“Want to try something new, kitten?” he asked, curling his tongue around his teeth in just the way she liked.

Wriggling her body against him, she lifted her leg over his and started to undulate against his hardening dick. Spike grabbed her leg as she moved and lifted it higher as he started to rub himself against her wet pussy. She was already wet, but not wet enough. He lowered his head and took her nipple into his mouth. Sucking gently, he raised his eyes to her face and watched as she threw her head back in pleasure. God, he loved this girl.

Continuing his assault on her breasts, he moved harder against her. Her hands were in his hair, holding him to her lovingly. Spike slowly moved his lips down her body until he was rimming her navel with his tongue while using his hands to play with her breasts. He could worship this woman forever.

Buffy opened her legs wider to give him room to manoeuvre. He was just so talented with his tongue and mouth, she could not resist, nor did she care to. Slowly he moved his hands down to her waist to hold her down as he moved lower. Licking gently over her newly shaved mound, he could smell how much she wanted him. With the greatest of effort, he removed his body from hers.

He laughed as she mewled in protest at his departure. Watching her beautiful pout, he could not resist and bent his head to kiss it away. Whispering against her lips, he asked her to turn over. She smiled against his lips and wriggled over to her stomach.

Spike stood and moved to the bottom of the bed. Buffy was lying on her stomach with her head to one side and her legs slightly open. She was, to him, effulgent. He was fascinated by the little twitches her bum cheeks made in anticipation of his actions.

Impatient for him to touch her, Buffy lifted her backside slightly from the bed and wiggled it at him. Spike laughed before he crawled slowly up the bed and lay on top of her. He started to lick and nibble at her neck and shoulders, and was delighted when she started to move in earnest against him. Lifting himself on one arm, he moved his other hand to her hips and gently lifted her bum. Using his legs, he slowly persuaded her to open up to him. Bending over her back, he whispered in her ear.

“Go up on your knees for me, sweetling, and open wide.”

Spike sat back on his knees and surveyed the display before him. She was swollen and wet and her clit was red and engorged. He bent his head and gave her a long, slow lick. Savouring her taste, he was tempted to linger and put his tongue to more use, but they both needed something more.

Taking his dick in his hand, he gently moved the head up and down her crack coating the head with her juices. Finally, he positioned himself at her entrance and gently pushed in. When he was in her to the hilt, he stopped moving. Buffy was shuddering below him, her orgasm was not far away yet he had not moved within her.

Her heat was surrounding him. She was so tight and wet. Looking down at their joined bodies, he almost came. Her beautiful body was stretched under him, taut and ready. It was taking all his willpower to keep still, he wanted her to move against him and set the rhythm.

Buffy could take it no longer; she wiggled her backside and moved forward slightly. Taking an initiative she never knew she possessed, she moved experimentally backwards and forwards until she found a rhythm that pleased her.

Spike grabbed her hips to help her rotate while she moved back. She was a fucking natural. He could feel his cock swell like never before inside her. He was too close and he did not want to end this so soon. Quickly letting her go, he drew completely from her.

“Spike!” she cried as her body fell back to the bed. “What the fuck do you think you’re doing? I was just about to come.”

In reply, he lifted her hips from the bed and stuck his tongue into her ‘naughty place’ and rubbed her clit quickly.

She screamed her release to the skies as her juices covered his face and fingers. He sat back on his knees, dick throbbing, desperate to be back inside her. She had not quite calmed when he lifted her hips and pushed into her hard. He gripped her hips hard enough to bruise and rammed into her quivering pussy again and again. When he felt the tightening in his balls which signalled his orgasm, he sucked his fingers into his mouth to coat them with his saliva before pushing two into her little puckered hole.

Once again, Buffy screamed her pleasure to the sky. Spike fell across her back and peppered her neck and shoulders with kisses. He was too comfortable to move, but knew that Buffy could not take his weight much longer. Slowly he lifted his body from hers and withdrew. He moved to her side and spooned her back to his front.

Buffy was exhausted, she had just experienced his first multiple orgasm and now her body was spent.

No wonder she loved this man. No one in the world could make love like he. He was her God, her personal transport to heaven. She would never get tired of his love-making.

Spike continued to kiss her neck as they both calmed. When he started to suck her earlobe and stick his tongue into her ear and swirl it around, she was surprised how much she wanted him again. Although she felt too sated to move, she forced her body to turn in his arms.

“My God, Spike, that was just incredible. I think I will enjoy making love that way again, but your have to let me rest.”

He tucked her head under his chin and held her close. He, too, was sated and content but the feel of Buffy lying next to him make his cock continue to twitch.

The practicalities of making love made their way into her lazy mind. She pouted up at her lover.

“I’m all sticky down there again and I really don’t like it. Let me up you lazy man so I can clean myself up.”

He smiled at her in his special way. “Now that is something I will enjoy watching, pet. You carry on.”

Buffy lightly swatted his shoulder and moved from the bed. Her legs were still shaking and she took a few seconds to find her feet and stretch. Spike moved onto his side and rested his head on his hand in order to enjoy the show.

“Take your time, luv” he purred from the bed. “Put your foot up on the edge of the bed and move the wash cloth very slowly, I want to enjoy the view.”

She smiled at him flirtatiously as she filled the wash bowl with warm water from the fire. Moving the bowl to the bed, she took her time dipping the wash cloth into the water and rubbing the soap across it. His eyes never left hers as she started to soap the cloth. When she lifted her leg to the bed, opening her cunny to his gaze, he moved down the bed for a better look.

“It’s all wet and glistening, pet. It smells of both you and me, and I can see the juice pouring out of you.”

Lifting his hand, he gently prised her pussy lips apart for a better view. Buffy bucked into his hand as he moved their combined fluids around. Gently rubbing her clit in lazy circles, he seemed transfixed by the sight before him. As he moved his hand around, even more fluid poured from her.

“Stop it, Spike,” she whispered with no conviction in her voice. “I want to clean up….Oh God, stop that.”

Spike withdrew his hand and smiled up at her from the bed. She watched, fascinated as he placed the fingers covered with their combined fluids into his mouth and sucked hard. His eyes closed in pleasure and she could not move a muscle until he opened them again.

“Christ, that was fantastic, pet. We taste incredible together.”

“I’ll take your word for it, Spike. I don’t think I am ready to taste something like that yet.”

He smiled at her, “I think you will like it, pet, but that is something we can save for another time. Right now I want to watch you clean my tasty treat.”

Buffy smiled back at him as she started to clean their fluids. With each movement of her hand, Spike whispered instructions to her. He wanted her to do it slowly, take her time around her hole and ‘naughty place’ finally he asked to rub her clit hard.

She could not believe it, as once more she came. He had managed to talk her into playing with herself as she washed. He would have to pay.

Rinsing the wash cloth carefully in the now cooling water, she once more soaped it into a lather.

“I think you need to clean up too, Spike. I think I want to watch you now.” She whispered as she handed him the soaped cloth and lifted her foot from the bed to the floor.

She watched him closely as he put on a show for her. He gently soaped his balls and moved his cloth covered hand over his now erect dick and rubbed it slowly. He eyes never left her face as he continued his movements. He could feel his orgasm building as he rubbed his dick faster and faster. Within moments his torso was covered with strings of cum.

He looked up at Buffy’s face and smiled. “Do you want to clean me up with your tongue, luv?”

“Not a chance, Spike.” She laughed at him. “Clean yourself up and we will get some sleep.”

Once the flannel had been rinsed, and they both felt clean, they snuggled under the covers together for the rest of the night.



##


That evening, the body of the Duke of Craven was found. The alarm had been raised when his slightly injured horse had returned to the stables late in the afternoon. The grooms and the footmen had combed the estate for hours, hoping to find their master was only injured. As the night drew on, they knew that they would be looking for a dead body.

It was one of the grooms who found him, and was promptly sick on the path when he saw the state of his master’s face. The horse had done a good job, and the duke was almost unrecognisable, but only almost.

There was no mistaking that the Duke of Craven was dead.

Chapter 65 Preparation



AN* - to all my wonderful readers and reviewers – I thank you all

This is for the plot bunnies amongst you. Enjoy my dears, enjoy.






It was now five minutes before his minions were due to arrive and inform him of the death of the Duke. He had really wanted to be there and witness it for himself as the man had ruined nearly all his plans. Practicality had taken over and he knew that this death must not be attributed to anything but an accident. There were other deaths he could play with which would satisfy his needs.

The alibi had been inspired. Lady Catherine had, indeed, been taught well by Craven. His body still smarted in places from her ministrations. It was a pity that he could not have spoken to the Duke before his demise; he would have liked the direction of the carpenter responsible for the creation of secret room. There were many appliances in use there that had proved most agreeable.

Catherine had pleased him well. Not only could she administer the pain he loved, she enjoyed receiving it. He had been more careful than normal in his play as he did not want her to turn on him. She was still his alibi and he needed to ensure she was compliant. He had gone to the trouble of making the woman come on a few occasions, not for mutual pleasure but for remembrance. The whore would remember her first encounter with Angelus as pleasurable; the second encounter may not bode as well.

His eyes moved to the clock as he heard the knocker resound on the door. His minions were not late, they were never late. He strode to his desk in the library and sat down to receive them. The news they bore would have to satisfy him until tonight. Tonight was Athelstone’s turn for a visit.

Three gentlemen were announced by the butler. Each man bore the office of Gentleman, and would have passed as such in any drawing room of the Ton. All owed him favours, and he called upon their services when he required them. All the men were as unscrupulous as he, and they worked together well.

Their news brought a smile to his face that did not reach his eyes. Craven was dead, brought down by his own horse. His minions had done well in their task and he would reward them once his wife was free. All would have their turn with her, alone or together he did not care. She would perform this service for her husband without argument, she was good that way. He may even watch her time with the men, it may be a good diversion. Maybe he could persuade Catherine to join them. He would have to think about that.

For now, they would have to wait.

The men discussed their plans to abduct Athelstone and bring him to Angelus. They had spent a lot of time following him and ascertaining his habits. Unfortunately for the man, he was a creature of habit. When not in the company of the Prince, he spent his time at White’s or Boodle’s deep in play. He had more than enough money to cover any debt, but he was careful and often left the tables when the play was too deep. The man did not drink to excess, nor was he too flirtatious with the ladies.

It had not taken long to discover his vice. The man was a sodomite and preferred the company of young men at a tavern in Whitechapel. His nightly habit of visiting the pleasures found within its walls was quick to discover, and exploit. Athelstone was at present enamoured of a young man who worked in the tavern and visited him every night. The young man had been easily bribed to drug Athelstone that very evening and allow his minions entry. They would have to deal with the young man at the same time; there must be no one who could tell the tale of Athelstone’s disappearance.

Plans had been made and times arranged before the little group broke up. Athelstone would be brought to Angelus before midnight, and he needed to prepare. His pleasures of the evening before had played their part in his plans for Athelstone, and he needed to visit with the fair Catherine again this evening. Her little room, equipped as it was, would be perfect for the man’s torture. She could join in if she was so inclined, she might enjoy it.

Looking at the clock, he noticed it was time to leave for Bedlam and speak to Drusilla. Ringing for the butler, he requested his horse be saddled and brought to the door. He hoped she was lucid today as he had much to prepare before this evenings activities. Walking into the hallway, he gathered his beaver hat and great coat to take his leave.

##

Drusilla was, indeed, lucid today. They had loosened her restraints but kept her locked in her room. He had brought her stupid doll to her just the day before and she had cooed and clucked over it for an hour, ignoring him. It had been most tempting to take the doll and smash it against the walls, but that would have upset her to the point of madness and he needed her as lucid as possible.

She smiled as he entered her cell. When he did not smile back, she pouted at him. He was not in the best of moods as the clerk on duty had demanded the ten pounds for her keep. It was worth it to keep her from public display. He did not need any more attention to be brought to bear on him while he executed his revenge. Parting with money had never sat well with him.

“Is Daddy angry with his princess today?” she pouted at him.

Knowing he would have to show her some affection to keep her sweet, he opened his arms to let her run to him. He held her fast against his chest to make her feel secure. On many levels he was fond of her, but Darla would always be his love. He missed her money making skills more than he missed her body. Her source of income to the Angelus coffers had kept his household most comfortable. He would have to look for another source of income soon.

He lifted her chin and gave her a chaste kiss on the lips. Glad of any affection from her Lord, Drusilla wrapped her arms around his neck in an attempt to deepen the contact. Angelus allowed her to show her affection for a few moments before gently pushing her away. He needed information today, not cuddles from an insane whore.

“Drusilla, my love.” He began as she disentangled her arms from his neck. “Have you given any more thought to William and how we will bring your puppy back to heel?”

Drusilla frowned at his rejection; then smiled at the thought of William.

“Miss Edith talked to me last night, Liam.”

Angelus turned away from her; he did not want to show the disappointment he felt. The bloody doll was the bane of his life, but Dru was convinced the messages the doll relayed to her were nothing but the truth. He schooled his features carefully into one of interest. Occasionally the thing did manage to convey something of interest; he sincerely hoped this was the case now as his patience was thin. Definitely not in the mood for the pictures drawn by stars and such like, he drew her to the cot in the corner of the room to allow them both to sit while she told her tale.

Drusilla looked at him, her happiness that Daddy was willing to listen to Miss Edith was written all over her face. Daddy did not like Miss Edith and had often said he would bash her brains in for talking to Drusilla. Sometimes she had hidden Miss Edith away from Daddy when his moods were bad.

Looking into her eyes, he held both her hands in his. He knew of old how much she needed physical contact, it was the reason she made such a good whore; she enjoyed the work.

“Drusilla, my love, what did Miss Edith tell you last night?” he asked gently.

Drusilla looked down at their joined hands and wished Daddy would take her home. She had been punished enough and she really wanted to please him. He must be very angry with her to keep her here. She must remember all that Miss Edith had said to please him. Lifting her head, she stared at the wall.

“William is covered in sunshine now, Liam, and it will be hard to bring him back. He thinks he loves her and that she loves him. Miss Edith tells me that his sunshine no longer plays with him as she did before, and they are happy together. Miss Edith says I must leave them be now, Liam, but I cannot.”

She turned her head to look at him and he noticed the tears in her eyes. He was slightly taken aback by her display. He had always assumed that Drusilla’s relationship with William had been no more than mutual satisfaction between the sheets. Now it would appear otherwise, his wife definitely held affection for Lord Whitmore.

Her voice was small and pleading as she continued, “William has turned to the sunshine forever, Daddy. He will not come back unless I can look him in the eyes. I can bring him back to me if I can hold him to me and whisper pixie words to him.”

Angelus did not think for one minute that Whitmore would visit her in Bedlam. He may not like Miss Edith, but the doll was rarely wrong. If, indeed, William had fallen in love with the Summers chit, he would need to get Dru out of here before they could execute a plan. He fully intended to kill the chit as soon as possible after the wedding, thus leaving William in charge of her dowry. His mad wife would soon loosen his purse strings once he was away from the fair Lady Elizabeth.

He would have to wait until after the wedding to secure her release. Any earlier would be too dangerous to his plans. He realised that in her unstable state, Drusilla would try to bring William to heel before the money was secure. If she succeeded, they would all be swimming in the River Tick.

He held her hands tighter as he spoke of his thoughts.

“Drusilla, I will need to make some plans for bringing William to you. I have to leave you now and return home. Will you be alright here while I am gone?”

Drusilla smiled at her Daddy and tilted her head to one side.

“Of course, Daddy, I have Miss Edith to keep me company and she talks to me all the time.”

Angel kissed her gently on the cheek.

“I will be back tomorrow, sweetheart, and you can tell me what Miss Edith has told you. Will that be nice?”

A huge grin spilt her face as she nodded vigorously.


##

His visit with Dru had left him dissatisfied. Her ramblings, such as they were, struck a chord inside him. He needed Whitmore brought to heel and he would have to wait until the wedding.

This was an occasion when he was not content to wait.

After an early dinner at home, Angelus prepared for a visit to Catherine. He was most anxious to make use of her secret room that evening. He wondered if he could replace Drusilla’s money making skills for Catherine’s. It would be so simple to procure gentlemen of the Ton who would clamour for her particular delights. She had only charged him ten pounds for his pleasure. He would charge one hundred pounds per hour for her, but only give her ten. If she was happy with a paltry ten pounds, who was he to argue.

After tonight he would have her at his mercy. He fully intended to finish off Athelstone within her home. Once the deed was complete, he would blackmail her into working for him as a whore. It would keep his coffers full and it would keep her mouth shut.

Yes, it was a good plan. He must set his lawyers on the task of procuring the Chelsea lease. No need to move her direction when her current dwelling was so convenient.

Arriving at her door at eight of the clock, he was quickly ushered into the small sitting room. Catherine was sitting demurely in a pale pink gown, hands folded in her lap. Her dark hair had been artfully curled and styled and she had rouged her cheeks and lips. She was a little old for his tastes, but her skills made up for the loss. Maybe he would fuck her before their guests arrived.

No, he would not fuck her now. It would more pleasurable after Athelstone’s demise. For now, he needed to prepare.

He allowed Catherine the social niceties required of the Ton. His brandy was poured by the butler and they engaged in small talk for some time. Angelus glanced at the clock and noticed that they had but two hours to prepare. He must lay out his plans clearly.

“Would you ring for you butler, Catherine, I need to speak to the man.”

Startled slightly at his request, Catherine rose to ring the bell pull. Within a minute, the man appeared, and Angelus pulled two pounds from his roll of soft. Handing the notes to the surprised butler, Angelus bid him and all other servants to leave the house and not return until the following morning. The money he had handed over would be more than enough to keep the small household staff happy. Two pounds was almost half what most earned in a year, far less overnight.

Catherine felt a frisson of unease as Angelus dismissed her servants. She did not know why he had done that, and was worried that his pleasures would be harsh. It did not help that he dismissed any attempt on her part to hold a conversation about his plans for the evening.

He was content to wait until the last servant left the house.

It took longer than he anticipated for the house to be quiet. He had heard scurrying and laughter in the hallways as the servants prepared for their evening out. He did not really care how the butler dispensed the money, as long as they were gone.

One hour later, only he and Catherine were in the house.

“Catherine, my dear, we will be expecting some guests to join us later.”

Fear rose in her throat. Was the man contemplating passing her round like a Haymarket whore? She was now alone with him and had no way of fighting him off.

Angelus watched with glee as the fear she felt became a palpable force in the room. He fed off it for a good few minutes before he continued.

“Do not worry, my dear Catherine, they are not coming here for your pleasure; but for mine.”

He watched her face in pleasure as her fear increased. Her brow was sweating and her neck was turning a beautiful shade of red. Her breathing was coming in short pants and her fingers were nervously tightening in her lap.

This was just too delicious.

Leaning forward in his chair, he clasped his hands together and looked directly at her.

“My guests will be arriving before midnight, Catherine, and one of them will be leaving in a sack. We will be using your little room of torture for the event.”

Catherine whimpered in horror as he spoke to her. She realised he was serious and that he was going to involve her in murder. He was going to use her home for his own purposes and there was little she could do. Her servants were gone and only she remained.

Angelus smiled evilly at her. “When my guests arrive we will all retire upstairs, Catherine, you included. I want you to see what happens to people who turn against me. When we are finished, my dear, you and I will discuss your future and how you may serve me.”

She was beyond coherent thought by now at his words. Wondering if he was going to kill her too brought tears to her eyes and she could feel her whole body shake. Too nervous and frightened to speak, she stared at him with liquid eyes.

Oh, she was just too delicious. Her fear fed his black soul and he was enjoying himself immensely. The pleasure of killing Athelstone would be increased a thousand fold now that he had this sorry creature in the room with him. He hoped she would be sick, that was always fun.

He stood and held out his hand for her to take.

“Come with me, Catherine, there are some adjustments we need to make to your collection of toys before our guests arrive.”

Catherine shakily placed her hand in his, wincing at the pain of his grasp as he dragged her from the room.

Chapter 66 – A torturous night.

AN* - Please note this chapter deals with a truly evil Angelus. He has no redeeming qualities, at all, so you will be disappointed if you expect any. This chapter is necessary for the flow of the story, and I apologise in advance if it offends anyone. If you don’t like – don’t read.

You have been warned……………..







The knocker sounded at precisely twenty minutes past midnight. Catherine jumped at the sound, her fear increasing with every passing moment. Angelus had spent a long time explaining exactly how the night would go. Horrified at some of the things he described, she was so scared it was hard to stay upright. She wanted to curl into a corner and never come out again.

Bidding her stay in the secret room, Angelus himself, answered the door. He bid his minions enter carrying their burden between them. The laudanum they had administered would wear off soon and he needed his prey restrained before then.

Upstairs in the secret room, Catherine waited on the men to bring in their victim. She wondered if Angelus would kill the man on his own or would the others join in. Fighting back the bile in her throat, her ears picked up the sound of their approaching footsteps.

Angelus led them into the room. He bid them strip their victim and use the restraints on the apparatus in the room to hold him down. Once their task was complete, he escorted them out. He only wanted Catherine to witness his skills tonight. She would be most compliant by the end of the night. His men would return at dawn to remove the body.

He might offer them Catherine for a few hours as Drusilla was not available. He would give that serious thought.

Catherine was still standing in the corner with her hand over her mouth to stop the rising bile. She watched Angelus circle the man, tilting his head from side to side as if contemplating his first strike. The man was still asleep thanks to the laudanum in his body. His chest rising slowly as he breathed, was the only sign of life. Angelus turned his attention to her.

“Fetch me a pail of water, Catherine. It’s time for the bastard to wake up.”

She ran from the room at his request. Immediately she ran down to the foyer to try and escape. If she was lucky he would not have locked the house for the night and she could leave. She really prayed she could leave.

Her hands slid on the handle of the door as she tried to open it. Her legs were shaking uncontrollably and her hands were slick with sweat. Drying them quickly on the skirt of her gown, she tried again. The door would not open; Angelus had locked them in and removed the key. Running down to the kitchen, she tried the door there, but still no success. She was stuck in her house with a madman who was about to kill a man in front of her. She was sure he would kill her next. She would fetch the water he required and hope for a method of escape.

Angelus wondered where Catherine had disappeared to. He had locked the doors in preparation of his activities and he laughed to himself when he realised she would try and escape. He had taken the precaution of shuttering all the windows and pocketing the keys. The knocker had been removed from the door, and the house was quiet. He had forgotten nothing.

He called to her from the doorway of the room. Within a few moments she reappeared with the water. Good girl, he thought, she learns quickly. He smiled at her as she approached and noticed that the water was spilling from the bucket with her shaking. Her fear was just too delicious.

“Bring the water in here, Catherine, there’s a good girl.” He cooed at her.

Doing as he bid seemed her safest option at the moment. Walking slowly into the room she noticed that Angelus had filled a table with toys. There were items there she did not recognise, and her fear intensified further. She wondered if she would ever see the end of this night. With great care she placed the water near the head of the man strapped to the special table.

“Good girl, Catherine, you have done well. Now strip every bit of clothing from your body, sweetheart, I need you naked for this.”

Her hands were shaking too much to complete the task. She started to cry softly as she tried desperately to loosen her buttons. Angelus heard her sobs and his soul rejoiced. She was taking far too long, and he pulled her to him to rip the clothes from her body. Crying in earnest now she tried to cover herself with her arms.

Angelus threw his head back and laughed. “You have nothing I have not already seen, Catherine. Why cover yourself now.”

It was time to wake his victim up. Lifting the bucket, he ran half of it over Athelstone’s head. It took a few seconds for the cold water to do its work, but soon the man was coughing and spluttering as he opened his eyes.

Angelus watched in glee as the man pulled against his restraints. He was not going anywhere. Craven had designed his apparatus well. If Craven had still been alive, Angelus might have bought it from him. He shrugged his shoulders, too late now, he thought.

“Wake up Athelstone; I need your full attention for the next hour or so.”

Athelstone wits were still addled by the laudanum, but not enough to stop him recognising the voice of the man who restrained him. Fear started to work its way through his system. He decided to try and bluff his way out of his predicament.

“Angelus, you have had your joke. Would you loosen these restraints and let me up. My God, man, this is just not acceptable behaviour.”

Angelus moved to Athelstone’s head and looked into his eyes. “I have only done to you what your Prince ordered done to my wife, Athelstone. How do you like it? Are you comfortable in your new home?”

Athelstone’s wits were no longer addled. He knew that Angelus was out for revenge and he could not defend himself. He was trussed naked to some contraption, he felt like a deer ready to be butchered for the table.

“Well, Athelstone” Angelus continued to look the man in the eye. “Did you enjoy your pretty boy plaything before you decided to visit our little room?”

Watching the man twitch with fear on the table, Angelus rejoiced. So much fun to be had with this man and the night was young.

“Have you ever had a woman, Athelstone? Or do you just like young boys. Do you suck cock, Athelstone, or do you get them to suck yours?”

Athelstone just stared at Angelus in fear. When he did not reply, Angelus struck him hard across the face.

“I asked you a question, Athelstone. Do you suck cock?”

Deciding to tell him anything to get out of his restraints, he nodded.

“Good, I’m glad to hear it. Catherine here is a good mistress of pain, but her sucking skills are poor. I’m sure you have much more practice. Let’s give our sweet Catherine a demonstration of how it’s done.”

Before he could protest, Athelstone had a mouthful of Angelus.

“Don’t bite, boy, or you will be sorry. Catherine, why don’t you join the little party and suck him off? Let him see that the inside of a woman’s mouth is no different from a man.”

She was too scared not to obey. Slowly moving forward she lifted Athelstone’s flaccid cock and placed her mouth around it. Angelus watched her ministrations while pumping into his victim’s mouth. She was doing her best, and he noticed that Athelstone was starting to harden in her mouth. Quicker than he anticipated, Angelus shot his load down his victim’s throat.

As he drew his softening member from Athelstone’s mouth, he slapped it against his face.

“Did you enjoy that, Athelstone? I must say that I did, you suck better than a whore. Well done.”

Angelus stood back to watch Catherine continue to suck. She was quite good, to be honest, but Darla was the best he had ever had, with Drusilla a close second. Athelstone could not fight his growing erection under her hands and mouth. She was bringing him along nicely. It was time to make the man retch.

“Catherine, my dear, come here.”

Immediately she stopped and walked towards him on shaky legs. As she drew close he placed an arm around her and pinched her nipple hard. He relished her intake of breath at the pain. Just delicious!

“Athelstone, my little cock-sucking bastard, have you ever eaten pussy?”

The look on Athelstone’s face gave him his answer. The man did not like women at all. This would be wonderful to watch. Turning to Catherine, he gave her another little pinch.

“Sit on his face, my dear. Let him pleasure you as you suck his dick.”

Catherine shook as she climbed on the table. Carefully she placed her legs either side of Athelstone’s head. Angelus stood behind him and held his head still. He whispered in his victim’s ear.

“Now poke out your tongue and stick it up her hole. Come on Athelstone, let’s see that pretty pink tongue going in and out of the whore’s hole. You never know, you might just like it.”

Athelstone was gagging. His eyes never left the pussy lowering to his face. He had never been interested in women and this was torture. His tongue left his mouth as her smell hit him. He was going to be sick, he could already feel the bile rising.

Angelus moved one of his hands, and prised Catherine’s pussy lips apart. “Come on, Catherine; lower that pussy so Athelstone can have a taste.”

As his tongue touched her, Athelstone started to wretch. He did not like the smell or the taste. He had never been with a woman in his life, and at this moment he understood why. The sight above him did nothing for him, and he lost his erection immediately.

Angelus noticed his flagging erection and his hand moved to Catherine’s back to force her head down to Athelstone’s groin.

“Suck him, Catherine. He seems to be losing interest.”

She took him in her mouth and did her best to suck him back to life. The man’s tongue was busy between her legs and she could feel her arousal increase against her will. His dick was starting to get hard in her mouth and she continued to suck him hard.

Athelstone had managed to stop his gagging. He tried to breathe through his mouth to reduce the smell, but it was not use. His tongue was working overtime as he pushed in and out of her hole.

Angelus let them both go and stood back to watch. He started to stoke himself at the sight of his playthings on the table. Neither wanted to do what they were doing, yet they were turned on just the same.

When Angelus was sure that Athelstone was nice and hard, he lifted Catherine from his face and dick.

“Ride him, Catherine. Let him feel what it’s like inside a woman’s cunt.”

Holding hard to his dick, she lowered herself on him.

Tears were running down her face and she was sobbing in earnest. She was shaking too much to move, but one look at Angelus’ face and she bobbed up and down.

Athelstone could not keep his erection. She felt too wet and slippery and was not tight enough. The sensations he felt made him feel ill, and soon he slipped out of her.

Both Catherine and Athelstone were scared. What would Angelus do now that they had displeased him? Both looked at him in terror, waiting on his reaction.

Angelus laughed before looking at Athelstone.

“Well, well, Athelstone. Looks to me like you can’t stand pussy at all.” He walked closer to his victim’s head and bent to look him in they eye. “If you don’t like pussy, perhaps you like pain.”

Catherine had not moved from her knees. Her hands were on Athelstone’s chest and she was frozen in place as she watched the interplay between the two men.

“Off, Catherine” Angelus ordered as he walked to the other table in the room to inspect his toys. Crying and shaking, Catherine lowered herself to the floor. Her legs could not support her any longer, and she crumpled into a heap by the wall. She did not want to look at Angelus, but her eyes were drawn to him against her will.

He was standing over the man with a knife in his hand. She could feel her bladder empty on the floor in fear, and she did not care. Angelus sniffed the air and looked directly at her. His smile made her bladder move more.

“Pissed yourself, Catherine?” he asked idly. “You are more like Craven than I thought. He pissed himself too when we talked.” He looked down at the man restrained on the table. “Do you want to piss too, Athelstone? Or is your arse so loose from getting fucked that your shit is running down your legs.”

Athelstone said nothing in reply, and stared at the knife in the hands of his tormenter. He was sure he was going to die now, and he really did not care. The man had defiled him and he felt unclean. He was trying his best not to show his fear, but it was harder than he thought. He had served under Wellington, fought in the Peninsular and been decorated for bravery; yet this man had reduced him to gibbering wreck in less than an hour.

The Marquis De Sade could take lessons from this sadistic bastard.

Angelus smiled down at Athelstone without humour. “I am going to kill you tonight, Athelstone, but I want to play with you first.”

“Do you really think you will get away with this, Angelus? My god, man, I am a confidante of the Prince. They will look for me and when they cannot find me, they will look for you.”

“Oh will they, Athelstone? Why do you think they will come looking for me?” he asked, curiously. “I don’t think your friends from Whitechapel will miss you. Are you fucking Kirkbride, perhaps? I am really looking forward to seeing to him. Do you think he will let me play with him the way I’m playing with you? Maybe he will need a little persuasion, just…. like…..you.”

Before Athelstone could formulate a reply, Angelus swung the knife down and sliced off his nipple. The scream left his throat covering the sounds of Angelus’ laughter. Within moments, his other nipple had been severed and Angelus was watching, fascinated, as the blood poured down his chest. He carefully lifted the nipples and put them on the table. He would need them later.

Catherine was screaming against the wall, and pushed her hand into her mouth stop the noise when Angelus shouted at her to shut up. He needed his concentration for his work.

Angelus left the man to bleed as he turned back to the table. He inspected the implements laid out for display with relish. He was trying hard to decide what he would use next. He was hard and throbbing, too. Torture always did this to him. Catherine would take care of his little problem later. He would have to make her wash first; the smell of piss on a woman was not a pleasure.

He lifted the riding crop from the table. Craven had modified the tip to leave longer trails of cut leather, some had nice metal studs. Angelus studied the tip for a few moments. This was, indeed, a beautiful instrument. He might just take it home with him as a present for Darla.

Athelstone was still bleeding, but Angelus did not care. He studied the man’s torso dispassionately. He did not think of him as a man, but rather a blank canvas to draw pretty pictures upon. He trailed the tip gently over Athelstone’s stomach and thighs, and watched the skin twitch in anticipation.

This had always been the best part. His victim, lying there wondering where he would strike; muscles tensing in readiness for the blow.

He started on Athelstone’s legs, thrashing his lower legs before slowly rising higher. The restraints were holding fast and he was pleased with his progress. He did not want the man to die from blood loss and had deliberately made the cuts light. They would sting like hell, yet still leave pretty patterns.

Moving to the man’s stomach next, he continued his assault. Experience made him artful and deft. He was enjoying himself too much to stop, but his erection was becoming painful. He did not want to use Athelstone’s mouth again, the man may bite. He called for Catherine to crawl to him on her knees.

Catherine crawled to him through the blood pooling on the floor. Angelus looked down at the woman, gesturing for her to take care of him. She was most unattractive when she cried. Snot was running down her face in streaks, and he grimaced in distaste as she tried to clean her face with her hands.

“Any of your snot touches me, woman, and I swear you will get the same as him” he sneered at her as he glanced at Athelstone. She crawled quickly back from him to her shredded clothes on the floor, and wiped her face clean. She could not control the crying, and dragged a piece of clothing with her to keep her face dry.

She shook uncontrollably as she went about her business. Luckily it did not take long. Angelus was so turned on by his torture that he was ready to come as soon as her mouth took him. She was disgusted at herself and wanted nothing more than to die along with Athelstone.

Angelus pushed her away with his foot when he was spent. He enjoyed the sight of her covered in Athelstone’s blood, but she would need to clean up before the servants came home. She would also need to scrub the floor when he finished; he would make her do that naked.

It was time to finish this up and get the cleaning done. It always annoyed him that the cleaning took longer than the blood-letting. Catherine many be good for many things, but he doubted she had ever scrubbed floors. She would learn the hard way.

“I’m bored now, Athelstone. I was going to take longer but you are bleeding all over the floor and I might just slip in the mess. We don’t want that, now, do we?”

Athelstone was delirious from the loss of blood. He was beyond pain now, he just wanted to die. He hoped the man would make it quick.

Angelus had decided on the manner of the man’s death long since. In fact, he knew how the man would die as soon as he discovered Athelstone’s little vice.

Carefully, he lifted the man’s penis and sliced it clean off with the knife. He relished in the screams of both Catherine and his victim as they resounded in the room. Moving to Athelstone’s mouth, he shut his screams by stuffing his throat with his own penis. He held his hand over Athelstone’s nose and mouth until his body stopped moving and his eyes glazed in death.

This had been a good night.