Chapter 18.5: The Reason

Spikes walked through the snow blanketed street to her favorite coffee shop that allowed, not just dogs, but even allowed Damon.

It was an organic place that viewed all animals as brethren, if only they knew just how accurate that was for Spikes and Damon.

Damon being a demon dog, and Spikes being a dog demon, she couldn’t help but giggle at the fact that they really were kin. 

With coffee in hand she looked down at her boy as she walked forward, not noticing the male walk in front of her. 

“I am so sorry!” Spikes yelled as she quickly grabbed napkins to clean her coffee off of the black haired male who she’d bumped into and knocked over.

“Don’t worry, its fine.” he laughed slightly pushing her hands away from his torso, 

“It was my fault, I wasn’t looking where I was going. Here let me buy you another.” he smiled as he stood up. He was lean and almost as tall as Takado, with raven hair, ice blue eyes, and a slight tanned complexion barely lighter than Kitty’s; Spikes couldn’t help but blush.

“Wow you’re attractive.” 

she blurted out causing the male to laugh again.

“Um, thank you.” he laughed putting his hand behind his head, “So I’ll take that as a yes on the coffee?”

“Sure, thank you.” Spikes muttered trying to hide her flushed face. After buying her coffee, they sat down at a table by the window, the one in fact that Spikes would go to when she needed to think.

Who was this male? Had he been stalking her? He even ordered her favorite drink without her having to tell him. It was her usual instinct to judge and fight, but something about him drew her in.

“So, what brings you two fine canines to a coffee shop in the afternoon on Thanksgiving?” the male asked calmly.

Spikes nearly choked on her coffee at his comment, he was bold to out her existence so nonchalantly, which made her curiosity for him grow. 

She tilted her head and watched as his ice blue eyes glowed as white as the ice moon and his pupils turned to slits. 

“I’m not a hunter, just kin.” he smiled as his eyes quickly shifted back to their barely human color. 

“I really have to start using my nose again.” Spikes chuckled as she took a sip from her coffee. The male smiled at her again as he nodded in agreement and she couldn’t help but blush again.

“Wow I must be making a great impression so far.” 

“No, you’ve just caught me on an off day, I’m not usually flattered by guys who, I am now convinced, ran into me on purpose as a way to get me to sit with them.” Spikes joked in an almost flirting manor. 

She quickly drank her coffee trying to prevent herself from embarrassing herself, or further fooling this male into thinking she was not in a fully committed relationship. 

She slowly put down her coffee and furrowed her brows as that thought crossed her mind, was she really in a fully committed relationship? Didn’t that mean that both parties were loyal?

She knew in heart that Xander wasn’t faithful to her, and over the past few months she’d noticed them drifting even further apart. She felt as though she was waiting out the remainder of the relationship, until he was done with her, or worse they simply settled for one another.

“So you never answered my question.” the males smooth voice chimed breaking her train of thought.

“I’m sorry, what was your question.” Spikes said softly, still barely there.

“I had asked why you and your guard dog were here on thanksgiving?” his brows furrowed a bit showing slight signs of sincere concern for her, “You don’t have to answer if it’s too personal.”

“No, its fine...I just...” Spikes suddenly felt the tears rushing down her face, it was like the dam she had built over the past month was finally breaking, and in front of a stranger of all people.

“Oh crap, look I’m sorry I didn’t mean to pry, please...please don’t cry.” he said resting his hands on hers around her coffee cup.

“I-I’m sorry...” Spikes managed to choke between sobs, 

“I’m not like this...really...I just...” 

she continued to sob finally letting the past few months sink in, from her brother returning, her and Xander fighting more, watching her brother fall in love while she fell apart.

She always tried to be strong, to hold herself up because she knew no one else would, but everyone had their breaking point; even Spikes. 

“I’m just miserable.” she said looking at him through puffy eyes.

“Look, I know that we just met, but you can talk to me. Really. And what better person to vent to than someone who is completely non bias,
I don’t know you or your family or friends or whoever it is that is making you so upset. I have a past and no reason to judge you unless I want to be a hypocrite. So really, its safe to open up with me.” he said calmly rubbing his thumb along the side of her hand as a way to try to console her. 

Spikes stared into his eyes, searching for his lie, but all she could see, smell, sense, was sincerity. She couldn’t help but tell him everything. 

She told him about Takado, how he had been dead, the way she lived her life while he was gone. The darkness of her past, how she hated the person she used to be, and how Kitty saved her. 

She went on about how happy she was when Kitty brought him back, and how distraught she was now.

“You seem like you are happy for them, but something is holding you back.” the male said calmly as he took in what the canine told him. 

“What are you so afraid of?” 

Spikes leaned back and pondered for a bit on something she hadn’t wanted to face, something she wouldn’t even allow her mind to veer to.

But for some reason, this male, this cat she didn’t even know could see she was holding back.

“My biggest fear is that if they get together, I’ll be left on the back burner so to speak.

I love both of them dearly, Kitty is family to me and Takado is my brother, I want them to be happy.

But...when they achieve that inevitable happiness, there will be no room for me.

And I know that sounds childish, and I’m really okay with them moving on and starting a life together, they both deserve it.

But I fear what I will become. Like I told you, I’m miserable with my life, and I’ve only told you about Kitty and Takado...” 

she began to trail off as she thought about her ‘relationship’.

“Then tell me what the real issue is. 

The way you smile when you talk about your brother and best friend falling in love, its a true smile; you look happy for them. 

So there is something more, what is the other thing or person that is pushing you to be something you fear?” 

Spikes chuckled at his question, he was like a shrink, but she didn’t feel like she was being analyzed. She felt like for once, a male outside of her brother was actually interested in what she had to say and not what he could get from her.

“Well I have a boyfriend...” she paused looking for a typical male reaction of losing all interest but he seemed as focused as he had been through the entirety of their conversation.

“Well sort of...I don’t know.” 

he raised an eyebrow at her comment obviously intrigued but stuck to his word to not judge her. 

“I’ve been with this guy since I was 15, he was there for me when I had no one. Maybe not in a supportive way, but it was something tangible and consistent in my life of chaos. 

He stayed there through all the bullshit, but that's all he did, he was just there.... 

Yes when it got really bad and I broke down for reasons he had nothing to do with he would let me cry on his shoulder but really that was it.

But I have this warped sense of debt toward him, that for him just being there, I owe him my life. 

And he doesn’t argue when I bring that up, if anything his apathy suggests that he agrees...and when we fight it’s clear that he feels I am indebted to him... And honestly at times I feel that is the only reason I stay with him. To pay off this seemingly never ending debt.” 

She reached for her coffee only to realize it was empty, she grunted slightly at the empty mug and set it down ready to continue talking but was stopped by the raven haired male.

“I’ll get you another, you look like you need it.” he smiled as he began to stand up.

“Well then here,” she began as she pulled money out of her back pocket, “let me pay for you to get another as well.” 

he pushed away her hand softly and smiled.

“Let me be chivalrous, you need someone to show you you’re worth it, even if it is just a gesture as small as coffee.” he smiled winking at her before he turned to walk back up to the counter. 

Spikes leaned back in her chair again, a small smile crept across her lips, Xander had bought her coffee plenty of times, but each time his attitude toward it made her feel like it was something added to her tab.

More debt she would eventually need to pay.

She began to rack her mind for the kindness Xander had shown her, for as much of an asshole he was, there were the few moments that gave her hope...

“Here you go.” the male said happily setting her coffee in front of her before sitting back down, 

"now continue, you were at how you felt indebted to him for eternity.”

“Right...Well, most of the time that is how he makes me feel, but he has had some good moments. 

There are the few times after a fight where he’s actually set aside his pride and hugged me while I cried... 

but thats it, after I stopped crying he doesn’t want to talk because it will just lead to another fight. 

He tells me I need to let shit go and move on with my life, but he hasn’t been through anything I’ve been through. 

The only hardship we have in common is that we both are dog demons, but in his family I’d hardly call that a hardship.” 

Spikes scoffed as she took a sip of her coffee, her annoyance with Xander starting to lead the conversation, 

“And then when I try to explain to him how I feel, he undermines me and treats me like a child, saying I’m different and I grew up abnormal so I am unable to grasp the concept of normalcy that society has grown to know and accept...

But that’s not my fault...

And a part of me doesn’t want to conform to that which is accepted by society, true it would make my life easier, but I wouldn’t be me anymore.

If I began to fall in line and become the normal that everyone else knows, that he wants me to be, I will probably lose my values I’ve gained from the hardships I’ve faced.” 

She began to trail off, this was a truth she had never spoken or even thought of for that matter, was this really what she felt? Was her unfaithful ‘mate’ really such a poison in her life that she had began to change who she was as a person, the her she loved? Spikes stared at her coffee mug in hand. 

“Who am I? I am afraid of a man for the first time in my life, and even as I have these realizations, I fear I am still not strong enough to leave this disease.
 I can feel it killing me, but at the same time he’s become such a huge part of my life that I feel like I won’t survive if he is gone.

And that is what I fear I will become, this weak dependent shell of who I once was, I’ll settle with this mentally abusive unfaithful pig of demon, get married, start a family, and give up on every hope and dream I’ve ever had.”

she looked down at Damon who sat up and rested his head on her lap slightly whimpering.

“So in a way you are slightly dependent on Kitty and Takado?” the male spoke calmly receiving a glare from Spikes. 

“I don’t mean it as a bad thing. 

They are your family, the people you trust most in the world, it’s okay to lean on them as you stand back up.

I’m sure they will be there holding your hand as you learn to walk again, but the point is eventually they will let go and you won’t depend on them anymore, but they will always be there if you stumble.

Its a different type of dependency that you have with them, a type that doesn’t make you weak. 

However, admitting defeat before you’ve even put up a fight will make you weak. Just because they start a life together doesn’t mean you can’t lean on them anymore, it just means that your family is growing and you need to talk to them about it.

Explain your fears to them, from what you’ve told me about them I’m sure they will be more than understanding. But, from what you’ve described of Kitty, make it clear how happy you are for her first.” he chuckled as he drank his coffee causing Spikes to fully laugh.

“Wow, you are pretty perceptive, she’d freak out if I didn’t make my happiness clear. Its just the type of person she is, always thinking about others.” Spikes smiled as she took another sip of her coffee. She looked at her watch and shook her head. 

“Well it is 5 o’clock, and I’m officially late and the cat will probably kill me.” she began as she stood up.

“Oh I’m sorry for keeping you so long.” the male started as he stood up and followed her outside.

“Don’t be, you helped me out a lot.” Spikes smiled looking up at him,

“You know, you never told me your name.”

“Vincent.” he chuckled as he held out his hand. 

“And you?”

“Spikes.” 

“Spikes? Now thats an interesting name.” he laughed still holding her hand.

“I like it more than my real name.” she smiled, in the back of her mind trying to force herself to let go of his hand.

But something about it was comforting, his grip was strong but at the same time gentle.

“Well Spikes, this is a long shot, but lets meet up again next week, same table, same time.

I’ll even bring my hound, I didn’t know they allowed dogs in as big as your boy here.” he laughed.

“That’d be nice, coffee’s on me next time though.” 

“Deal.” the two stood silently for a moment, simply staring at each other. Spikes reluctantly finally pulled her hand away and could almost feel Vincent’s aura lower itself.

“Well, I’ll see you next week.” she smiled as she began to walk away.

“I can’t wait.” Vincent whispered as he watched her walk away. 

He couldn’t help but smile as he watched her walk. Very dog like in a way, stomping through the snow, but somehow seeming graceful as she marched. He shook his head and turned around to walk back to his apartment, his smile never fading.

Spikes kicked the snow as she walked, going over everything she had just discussed with Vincent, but what stuck out most was Xander. 

Why was it that she couldn’t remember then the good things but as she walked they became clear. It was true, the cons about him outweighed the pros at least three fold, but the pros still stuck in her mind. 

When he was having a good day, he was funny, he was nice in a way. For brief moments they could get along and laugh at jokes the other told; no insults, no demeaning comments; just getting along.

He did work his ass off to try to financially support her, and she did appreciate it, but for what she did for him; all was taken for granted. 

She felt as though she was never good enough, not skinny enough, not pretty enough; simple insecurities that she knew shouldn’t bother her but they did. 

How was she supposed to feel when the only compliment she could get was when she asked how she looked and the response was ‘fine’ or ‘I have a hard on’.

At first it was cute, she felt sexy and alluring, but now, she felt like an object, a toy soon to be thrown away if not tossed aside already.

She wanted to be appreciated, thanked when she did something sweet; she wasn’t expecting to be worshiped, just noticed. 

But that was shallow and stupid, it made her materialistic and selfish to want something like that. 

She sighed as she kicked the snow again trying to avoid the negative about Xander and focus on the positive.

He was a very intelligent man, and generous to his friends; but why was she never included in that? 

And why did he have this need to constantly undermine her with his intelligence, he treated her as though she were nothing more than an ignorant child. 

Frequently insulting her, nicknaming her with a degrading pet name to be a constant reminder of how she was beneath him on an intellectual level.

She laid in the pile of snow outside the gate to her home as she continued to ponder on her relationship. 

Why couldn’t she just stick to the positive? Had his cynical ways rubbed off on her that much? 

She thought back to the few dates he had taken her on in their relationship, she never felt romanced or loved. 

She felt yet again like it was just another debt. 

He would go on about he felt obligated to do these things for her, which was why she did her best to never ask anything of him, but was she so strange for thinking you would want to spoil your mate? 

She wanted to give him anything and everything he desired, not just to pay off a debt, but because she loved him.

She did however expect something in return, but what she had always wanted was nothing tangible. 

Respect, love, emotion. Things she knew in her heart he was either incapable or unwilling to give. She rolled over in the snow and stared at Damon as the thoughts raced through her head. 

Xander deep down was a good guy, thats what she always told herself, he’s really a good guy just lost.

But she was slowly beginning to doubt herself, maybe this was just who he was, an impossible flirt who was unable to love the one he is committed to?

She had watched him shower these women, who supposedly meant nothing to him, in love and affection.

If they were nothing and received that from him, just how low was she to him? How little did she mean to him? 

She could feel tears beginning to threaten her eyes again and she growled. She had done enough crying, and thinking for that matter, on this topic. 

She stood and shook the snow off of her as she began to walk through the gate and up to the front door.

“Well, here goes nothing.” she exhaled deeply as she walked through the front door.

Spikes stood anxiously in front of the door to the living room. It had been difficult enough to walk through the front door, unsure of what had taken place in her absence and in all honesty she wasn’t in a hurry to find out.

She couldn’t hide from her brother or her best friend though, not for long at least.

“Kitty? Takado?” Spikes called out as she stepped into the living room.

“Spikes!” Kitty called out, the anxiety in her voice was not unheard by Spikes. 

“You ok now Sis?” Takado asked as he made his way over to his sister, with Kitty trailing anxiously behind him.

“Uhm, yeah actually,” Spikes said quietly, thinking back on how Vincent had actually helped her quite a bit.

“Good, you had us worried Brat,” Takado said, ruffling his sister’s hair.

Spikes took a step back from him, smiling weakly at the two of them. She knew she needed to talk to both of them, explain her concerns like Vincent had advised her to, but she didn’t know how to get that conversation started.

“So now that you’re finally here we can eat! I made mashed potatoes!” Kitty cheered, already turning away to walk towards the dining room.

“Yeah after you dropped the first batch on your head,” Takado laughed as Kitty turned to stick her tongue out at him before disappearing through the doorway. Spikes grimaced slightly as she watched the door close behind Kitty. 

She knew Kitty didn’t like confrontation or talking about serious things, but this was getting out of hand.

Takado stared at his little sister, tempted to say something about what had transpired, but he felt like it was something that should be talked about with Kitty present.

“Come on Carissa, before the cat gets too impatient,” Takado laughed, as he began to walk towards the dining room where Kitty had gone.

Spikes groaned impatiently, annoyed that even her brother hadn’t said anything to her. Not that she had said anything either, but he was the older one. He should have said something at least.

They all sat down and started eating, the silence covering the room like a thick blanket of fog. Spikes was trying to think of exactly how to approach the topic, how to voice her concerns without discouraging Kitty or Takado from trying to be in a relationship. 

Kitty on the other hand was completely avoiding it. 

She didn’t want to talk to Spikes about her new found relationship with Takado, she didn’t want to hear about it. 

She just wanted it to happen without exactly being acknowledged so that she didn’t have to talk about it.

Then there was Takado who decided he’d had enough of the silence. 

“So Kitty and I are in a relationship now.”

“What?!” Spikes exclaimed, nearly choking on a piece of turkey. Kitty’s face mirrored Spikes, but girls shocked at how bluntly he’d spoken. 

“You’re telling me that you two actually talked?” 

Spikes couldn’t believe he’d gotten Kitty to actually talk to him when she normally did her best to avoid talking about serious topics.

“More or less,” Takado responded, hoping the slight flush of his cheeks wouldn’t be noticeable as he thought back on how he and Kitty hadn’t exactly “talked” on the matter.

Spikes stared at her hands in her lap, trying to form the words on her lips that were in her mind. 

She wanted to say she was happy for them, happy that they were happy, but that she was worried about being pushed aside. 

Her hands curled into fists as she glared at her hands, trying to stop the few tears that were threatening her eyes. 

She couldn’t cry Kitty was going to get the wrong idea if she cried, she was going to make both of them upset because she was selfish and couldn’t find the words.

“We don’t… If it bothers you Spikes we could stop. I don’t want you to be upset,” Kitty was barely able to whisper. 

She wanted to be with Takado, there was no denying that anymore, but she didn’t want to lose her best friend. 

The pained look in Takado’s eyes didn’t help how conflicted she was already feeling.

“No Kitty it’s not that. If you two are happy you shouldn’t give up on that because of me. I don’t even have a problem with you two being together,” Spikes finally spoke as she lifted her head to look at both of them. 

The flash of relief that went through their eyes hadn’t gone unnoticed by Spikes. 

She smiled weakly, happy to see how the two most important people to her interacted together, but her fears still plagued her mind.

“I just… I want you guys to be happy. I don’t want you to forget about me.” She looked back down at her lap, feeling terrible that she was scared of just letting them go, letting them be happy but she couldn’t lose them.

She was startled by two warm hands on her shoulders, one Takado’s who was standing next to her. The other Kitty’s who was leaning against the table on the other side.

“Do you really think either of us could ever forget about you? You’re my best friend in the world-”

“And my baby sister. We’re always here for you, both of us. No matter what happens between us, we’re always here for you.” Takado finished for Kitty, both smiling at each other briefly before returning their gazes to Spikes.

“What if you two want to get married or start a family, or-”

“First off slow the hell down!” Kitty instantly panicked, hoping Takado wouldn’t see just how nervous Spikes’s suggestion had made her. 

“First of all, this just started… today. That’s an awful lot of assumptions starting with day one. And second, You are our family in case you haven’t noticed Spikes.”

Kitty stood and pulled her best friend into a hug. 

“Family is always there for each other-”

“No matter what.” Takado finished, wrapping his arms around both girls.

“You two finishing each other’s sentences is going to get really annoying really fast,” Spikes finally laughed, returning the hug from her brother and her best friend. 

They all laughed before finally sitting down, and finishing Thanksgiving together like a real family should, talking, laughing, having a great time together, and even finishing things off with a minor food fight. 

Just like a small happy family should.

Chapter 18: The Reason

"Spikes!" Kitty whined for her best friend as she wandered the mansion's halls.

She'd already searched the canine's room, and now was praying she was somewhere, anywhere in the house. Because she did not want to see David alone. Not today.

"Goddamnit, Spikes." Kitty hissed, stomping her feet as she entered the living room.

Takado turned to look at her, and eyebrow raised.

"She left with Mohawk Guy about twenty minutes ago." Takado informed her, his eyes staying on her as she sighed heavily.

She fell on the seat beside him, muttering quietly under her breath

"I was really hoping she would come with me to see David." Kitty explained, surprised to find his eyes still on her.

"I guess that's what I get for wanting to ask so last minute."

"Why do you want Carissa to go with you?" Takado asked, suppressing a low growl at his next question.
"Isn't he practically your boyfriend?"

"Ha, god no." Kitty responded quickly, shaking her head.
"I would never date him, not after-"

Kitty paused as she watched Takado's shoulders and features relax slighty. Was he... relieved?

"Sorry, I just kind of assumed since you see him often." Takado explained, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear.

"I only see him so often to make sure he keeps up his end on a deal we made." Kitty scoffed. Her eyes widened as she covered her mouth. She couldn't believe she'd told him something she hadn't even mentioned to Spikes.
"No I just. I meant that- It isn't like-"

"You don't have to explain yourself to me, Kitty." Takado smiled at her, and without thinking she found herself smiling back.
"I am curious as to why you want Carissa with you for that."

Kitty's smile widened, grateful to be on a new subject.

"No real reason. It's just that even if I'm not interested in him, he thinks he's in love with me." Kitty sighed, eyes saddening.
"I just prefer to bring Spikes so he doesn't start to think it's a date when I meet with him."

"I could go with you, if you want."

Kitty's eyes widened and her mouth hung open as she stared at Takado, disbelief etched clearly on her face.

"Seriously?"

"Yeah, seriously." Takado stood up, stretching.
"I think I'd be a better person to take if you're trying to send him a message that you're not interested anyways."

"You'd seriously do that for me?" Kitty laughed, still staring at him.
"I thought you hated humans."

"I thought I hated cats." Takado offered his hand out to her to help her up.
"I mean, I still don't like you. But I don't think I hate you anymore."

Kitty grinned, taking his hand. She turned around, hugging him briefly before turning away.

"I don't like you either, Tako."

"So what time were you going to meet with him.?"

Kitty giggled nervously, running a hand through her hair.
"Like five minutes ago."

"You don't even care do you?" Takado laughed as he opened the door, letting her pass through.

"Nope!" 
...

"David, I'm so sorry I'm late." Kitty feigned sweetness.She paused to straighten out her hair and shirt, biting down on her lip before she grabbed for David's hand.
"I hope you don't mind but I brought Takado with me."

"Seriously?" David stiffened, noticing her flushed cheeks and how she kept trying to fix her hair.

"Yeah." Kitty stuck out her lower lip, eyes widening slightly.
"We were hanging out and we, uh, lost track of time."

David looked up from Kitty, his glare falling on Takado's equally unkempt appearance. David struggled to smile at Kitty despite the wild assumptions flying though his mind, dropping Kitty's hands from his.

"Well it's fine, so let's get inside." David turned around and walked inside, leaving Kitty and Takado alone outside the restaurant. 

"I told you it would work." Takado grinned smugly at her as Kitty turned around to face him.
"Did you see the look he gave me?"

"Yeah, but now he's thinking we... Well yeah." Kitty chuckled, her grin mischievous.
"I don't need crazy rumors flying around about me."

"It's not like you go out enough for it to matter." Takado reminded her, grabbing her nose.

Kitty rolled her eyes, pulling his hand away. She turned around and made her way into the restaurant.

"Let's go inside before he thinks anything else."
...

 “Hey so I was thinking maybe we could go see a movie together next weekend?" David suggested as they stepped out of the restaurant. Kitty turned to face him a small sigh escaping her lips.

"I'd really love to David, but I... uh-" Kitty bit down on her lip, struggling to think of an excuse not to see him.

"She's already going to a movie, with me." Takado grinned, crossing his arms over his chest. Watching David's face contort between rage and forced calm was becoming a new favorite game to Takado.
Enjoying the envy he brought out of the boy.

"What?" David glared at Takado, Kitty mouthing it beside him.
"I don't believe you."

"It's true though." Kitty lied smoothly, stepping in between the two boys.
"I just wasn't sure how to tell you."

"What are you two dating now?" David turned his glare on Kitty. 

"Not yet."

"Okay that's enough you two." Kitty turned around, poking at Takado's chest.

"I'll see you later, okay?" She smiled back at David, stepping forward hugging him for a moment.
David wrapped his arms around her, holding her steady despite her reluctance

Takado bit down on the inside of his cheek as he watched the two embrace. He looked away after a moment, wondering why it even bothered him at all.
It was none of his business who held her.

"I'll see you later, Kitty." David smiled softly, letting her go. He moved to kiss her cheek but she quickly moved out of the way, backing up against Takado.

Takado looked up, nodding curtly towards David before making his way to the car. Kitty trotted up to his side, lightly grabbed the cloth of his shirt.

"Link arms with me." Kitty ordered, grinning mischievously at him. 

"And why would I want to do that?" Takado grinned back, raising an eyebrow.

"Because you enjoy pissing off David?" Kitty rolled her eyes.
"Don't even pretend you don't. I've been watching you, Rovain. You were having fun messing with that poor guy."

Takado linked his arm with Kitty's. They both nearly collapsed with laughter at the very audible groan that came from David.

"I don't see why you waste your time with him." Takado commented as they stepped around the corner.
"Stupid human should know he doesn't stand a chance with you."

"What does that mean?" Kitty glared up at him, hesitating slightly.

"It means what I said." Takado released her arm, turning to face her.
"You don't have feelings for him. He should give up. And even if you did care for him, you could do so much better than a human."

"If I had any feelings for him, it wouldn't matter to me if he were human." Kitty spoke softly, surprising Takado.
"When I finally find someone that I love, that I want to be with. Superficial things like cat or dog, human or demon, hell maybe even boy or girl. None of that matters, not to me."

Takado stared at her with stunned silence, unsure of what to say, unsure of the way her words seemed to make his own heart flip.

"I mean... I just can't imagine letting go of someone I care deeply for over something so trivial, can you?" Kitty took a step closer, her gaze meeting his defiantly, but without anger.
"Do you really expect me to believe that even you would let go of someone you truly loved just because they weren't 'up to code'?"

"I... no, but I-" Takado stared at her blankly. She's rendered him completely speechless.

Kitty rest her hand on his shoulder, her eyes still glued to his.

"Imagine with me if you met the perfect woman, someone smart, fun to be around, and you can connect with her. Would you really just let her go just because she were human or a cat?"

Takado stood silently, watching Kitty as she turned and walked away from his. His thoughts running wild in his mind.
All his prejudice had been learned from his father, and when he thought about it... He had never understood why.
He simply accepted it and did as he was told.

Takado shook his head, forcing the thoughts of his father out of his mind, avoiding thoughts of what Kitty had said to him.

There was one thought though. One that echoed in the back of his mind. One he hardly noticed, one that he didn’t pay any attention to.

Don’t let her go.

…

"Okay so, let me get this straight. His name is The Doctor, not Doctor Who. He's smart but not an actual doctor, and flies around time and space in an English police box?" Takado sighed as Kitty giggled beside him, nodding encouragingly.
"Why can't you watch normal television?"

"Doctor Who is totally normal television." Kitty protested, sticking her tongue out at Takado.

Kitty yawned, stretching her legs out and resting them in Takado's lap. She waited for his protest, and smiled softly when it never came.

Takado grabbed her hand, running his thumb over her knuckles.
"I don't think I dislike you anymore."

Kitty stared at him blankly, fidgeting in her seat.
"Even though I'm a cat?"

"Yeah." Takado leaned closer. He rest his other hand on her knee, staring into her eyes.
"Just you though. You're the only exception."

Kitty felt her cheeks grow warm as she turned her head away from him

Takado leaned closer, his lips parting slightly as if to say more.
Both Takado and Kitty jumped as the living room door swung open.

"Hey Kitty where did you put my..." Spikes trailed off as her eyes fell on Kitty and Takado sitting together.
"I was uhm... wondering where you put the leather jacket I let you borrow last week."

"Yeah it's in my room. What's going on?" Kitty asked, hesitantly standing up from her seat.

"We're supposed to go see how the bar's renovations are going, remember?" Spikes sighed, a scowl forming on her face.
"You insisted I let you come with me this time, and you didn't even remember?"

"Sorry Spikes. I guess I spaced." Kitty rubbed her arm with her hand.
"I'll go get your jacket."

Takado stood up, grabbing her forearm before she left.

"Grab a thick jacket for yourself Kitty. It snowed last night and I know how easily you get cold."

Kitty smiled brightly at him, nodding as she pulled away and exited the living room.

Takado sighed softly, his eyes lingering on the door Kitty had gone through, a small smile on his lips.

"What are you smiling about?" Spikes tried not to growl as she watched her brother. Watched his eyes on Kitty, watched the longing in them when she'd stepped away.

"Uh, TV show Kitty was making me watch. It's funny." Takado lied, turning his attention back to the television set.

"You weren't even looking at the TV."

"I could still hear it. Calm down Risa." Takado grinned, ducking as she tried to swing at him.

Spikes growled, crossing her arms as she sat down on the couch's armrest. Takado sighed, glancing at his sister

"Here you go Spikes." Kitty tossed Spikes's jacket to her as she reentered the room.
"Are we leaving now, or in a few minutes.?"

"We should probably head out now." Takado stood up making his way over to Kitty.
"It's roughly a twenty five minute drive into town, and I know how Carissa likes to be early to everything."

Kitty and Takado smiled at each other. They turned to find Spikes glaring at the wall.

"Spikes is everything okay?"

Her head snapped up, eyes locking with Kitty's as she let out a slow sigh.
"Yeah, let's go."

"Shot gun!" Kitty called out as she ran out the front door.

"No way! You got it last time." Spikes barked chasing after the cat. Takado rolled his eyes at the two girls as he locked up the house.

Kitty screamed as Spikes tackled her into a snow drift. Takado laughed as he watched the two girls wrestle, throwing snow at each other.

"Alright you two, knock it off." Takado chuckled, trying to grab his sister.
"We have to go."

Spikes easily pulled herself free from Takado's grip, throwing a snow ball at Kitty's face.

Takado groaned as Kitty shoved Spikes down into another snow drift.

"That's enough." Takado grabbed Kitty's waist and lifted her into the air.

"Tako, put me down!" Kitty squeaked, struggling to get away from him.

"No more snow fighting and I'll put you down."

"... Fine" Kitty crossed her arms, pouting. Takado rolled his eyes and set her down. He patted her hair lightly as he walked past her.

"I've still got dibs on shotgun, Spikes." Kitty grinned, sticking her tongue out at her.

"Takado!" Spikes whined at her brother.

"Just let her have it Carissa. Don't you think you're a little old to be arguing over who sits where?" Takado chuckled.

Kitty smiled brightly at him, bouncing with excitement over her victory. He laughed, gently flicking her nose.
Kitty turned to face Spikes, surprised by the sadness she saw in her eyes.

"Hey... If you really want I can sit in the back." Kitty offered as she took a few steps towards her best friend.
"I was only messing around Spikes."

"It's fine Kitty. Just go ahead." Spikes growled as she pushed past her, climbing into the backseat of her brother's truck.

Kitty sighed softly as she leaned back in her seat, pulling her knees to her chest as Takado drove them towards the city.
The silence of the car had begun to make her feel anxious. She looked nervously at Takado, relieved to see that he at least wasn't in a foul mood.

Takado glanced at her from the corner of his eye, a smile tugging at the corner of his lips. Kitty's cheeks flushed, quickly turning to look out the car window.

Spikes sighed with relief as they approached the club. She jumped out of the truck before Takado had even taken the keys out and ran towards the front door.

"She's sure in a hurry." Takado murmured as he stepped out of the truck. He opened the passenger door, leaning against it when Kitty hadn't moved.

"You coming?"

"Oh, yeah. Sorry." Kitty shook her head and quickly stepped out of the truck. She shivered against the cool breeze as she made her way towards Spikes.

"Are you okay?" Takado asked. Kitty slowed her pace, allowing him to catch up to her.

"I'm fine Takado. Just cold I guess."

Kitty gasped as he wrapped an arm around her shoulder. Her eyes wide as she looked up to his.

"You should have known to grab a thicker jacket." Takado ran his hand along her arm. Kitty leaned against him, a soft purr escaping her lips.
The couldn't make out Spikes's cheer as she finally unlocked the door, and it swung open.

Spikes grinned, turning around to tell Kitty and Takado to hurry up.

Her blood and eyes went ice cold as she watched her brother's arm drop from Kitty's shoulder.

They silently ascended the stairs. Spikes made sure to stay several steps ahead of her brother and Kitty.
A deep sense of betrayal resting in her gut.

"So Spikes-" Kitty froze as Spikes glared at her, running the rest of the way up and into her bar.
Kitty clutched a hand to her chest, tears filling her eyes

"Hey." Takado's voice was gentle. His hand lightly grabbing her arm.
"Kitty, what's up?"

"Nothing." Kitty hissed, pulling away from him.
"Shouldn't you be with your sister, not me?"

"If that's what you want." Kitty flinched at the hurt in his voice.
She looked up at him as he walked away, her fingertips felt numb, and her voice dry as she tried to call out to him.

She ran after him, grabbing for his hand.

"Wait... Please..." Kitty managed to whisper as his fingers slipped from hers.
"Takado I-"

She paused, watching him cross his arms as he grinned at her.

"Want to sit with me while we wait for Carissa to finish?" Takado offered.
Kitty inhaled sharply. She came to be with Spikes, but...

She nodded, walking alongside Takado.
It didn't seem like Spikes really wanted her around right now anyways.
...

"Are we doing anything for Thanksgiving this year?" Spikes asked. She sat down on the opposite side of Takado, a frown still cemented on her face.

"I don't know Spikes. It is just the three of us." Kitty responded quietly.
"It did suck not doing anything last year though."

"Why didn't you do anything last year?" Takado raised an eyebrow at the girls, surprised Kitty would let a holiday pass with making a big deal of it.

"It wasn't worth it." Sprikes shrugged, reaching over the bar and organizing a few things.
"It was just the two of us and everyone we knew was busy with their own families. I mean, I could have gone with Xander, but that would have left Kitty completely alone."

"She couldn't go with Nadine? Or maybe David to see his family?"

It was an innocent enough question, with innocent intent. But Kitty jumped out of her seat, backing herself against a wall.
She shook her head violently as she covered her eyes, slowly sliding down to the floor.

"No..." Kitty's voice was barely a whisper.

"What the fuck is wrong with you?" Spikes growled at Takado. She grabbed Kitty's hand, pulling her away from the wall and into her arms.

Takado stared blankly at the two girls. Spikes ran her hand through Kitty's hair, softly whispering to her.

"Kitty..." Takado stood from his seat. He approached the girls, resting his hand on her arm.
"I'm... sorry."

Kitty blinked, turning to glance at him.

Takado's chest felt heavy as he watched tears fall from her eyes. He'd seen her cry many times, it was something she did often.
But never like this.
He'd never seen her this scared before.

"What if I teach you how to cook for Thanksgiving?" Takado forced a smile across his lips. He rubbed his thumb on her arm, keeping her attention on him as he tried to distract her.

"What?" Her brows furrowed as she leaned in closer to Spikes.

"You should always do something for the holidays. Even if it's something small." Takado's smile softened as the tension in her shoulders began to relax.
"So I'll make a small Thanksgiving meal, and I'll try to teach you to cook so you can help me with it.
You did say you can't cook, remember?"

Kitty glanced up at Spikes, unsure of how to answer. Sighing softly she nodded to Takado.
Relief flooded his face and Spikes released Kitty. He stepped closer to her, placing his hand on her cheek and wiping away any remaining tears.

"I'm sorry." Kitty whimpered. Takado smiled, shaking his head as he brushed her hair out of her face.

"What are you apologizing for, Stupid?"

"I'm a mess..." Kitty lifted her arms to cover her face as she felt more tears well up.
"I don't know why anyone bothers with me. I'm not good for anything, I'd probably be a total goner if I wasn't born into a rich family, and I cry way too much."

"You're beautiful." Takado grabbed her hands, keeping his eyes on hers.

Her heart raced as his face inched closer to hers. He flicked her nose gently, chuckling to himself.

"Don't be so hard on yourself."

He stepped back and stood beside her. Her cheeks flushed deep crimson as she felt his fingers intertwine with hers. He squeezed her hand lightly, and slowly she calmed down, leaning against his shoulder.

Neither noticing the glare they received from Spikes across the room.

…

"So you just add water to bread to make it moist?" Kitty questioned from her seat on the kitchen's island counter.

"Kitty for the tenth time, stuffing if more than moist bread." Takado laughed, glancing over his shoulder at her.

"Right. It's moist bread with vegetables."

"Why are you harassing me about the stuffing anyways?" Takado sighed. Kitty jumped off of the counter, trotting to his side.

"I though you gave up on it and that's why I'm doing it now."

"I did." Kitty whined dramatically.

"But I still want to help."

"You can help make a mess." Takado laughed as she swatted his arm.

"I think it's been twenty minutes since that last one, which is a crime at this point."

"Keep laughing at me, Jackass." Kitty glared at him as she jumped onto the counter beside him.

"I'll just make you clean it all up."

"Not like I haven't already been." Takado stuck his tongue out at her, receiving the same gesture in return.

Takado moved to stand in front of her, resting his hand beside her.

"Try this." He held out spoonful of stuffing.
Kitty eyed it, glancing at him before biting off a piece and grinning.

"I get it now. It's tasty moist bread!" Kitty giggled at Takado's sigh.
He leaned over, resting his head against her shoulder.

"You're a brat."

"And you're a jerk." Kitty laughed, his breath tickling her shoulder. 
Takado straightened himself, opening his mouth to speak when a low growl caught his attention.
Takado walked towards the living room, Kitty following closely behind him.
He was surprised to find his sister on the couch growling at seemingly nothing.

"Carissa, are you okay?" Takado asked as he approached his sister.
She seemed to snap away from her thought as she stared up at Kitty and Takado with wide unblinking eyes.

"Spikes?" Kitty piped in when she remained silent.

"Sorry I just..." Spikes brushed a strand of hair behind her ear.
"I'm going to go for a walk. I need some air."

Spikes stood from her seat turning to walk away. Takado reached out, grabbing her arm and turning her to face him.

"No you're going to stay here and tell me what's wrong." Takado growled his grip on her arm tightening.

"Look, I need space right now." Spikes barked, slapping his hand away.
"Don't make me talk about this, Takado."

"No. You're going to tell me now!"

"Fuck off, I'm an adult. I have a right to keep things to myself."

"That's enough!" Kitty shouted at both of them. Kitty sighed heavily, placing a hand on each canine's shoulder.

"It's Thanksgiving, you shouldn't be fighting." Kitty protest, stomping her foot.
"Look I say Spikes goes on a walk, gets some air, and then answers any questions you have for her when she gets back okay?"

The two siblings continued to glare at each other, nodding hesitantly at Kitty's suggestion.

"Now stop glaring at each other. It's a day to be thankful and get fat, not bicker."

"Fine, you're right." Takado grumbled, relaxing his shoulders. He smiled down at Kitty, who smiled back at him sweetly.

"This! This right here is what has me so fucking pissed off." Spikes barked, startling both of them.
"You two are so into each other, and it's too much to handle."

"What the hell are you talking about Spikes?" Kitty scoffed. She kept her eyes away from Takado, biting the inside of her lip.

"Do you really think I'm that fucking dense?" Spikes snarled at Kitty.

"I can see it, smell it, feel it. And I know both of you can too."

"Carissa, you're being ridiculous." Takado rolled his eyes.

"Wow, you know if either of you cared about me as much as you claim to, you'd stop fucking lying to me." Spikes threw her hand into the air.

"You're basically in a relationship, and you're not fooling anyone other than yourselves."

"Spikes stop being stupid. We're not-"

"You know what fuck you." Spikes snapped, taking a step towards Kitty.

"Keep living a fucking lie because you're too scared to face the truth, because you're too scared to grow up. I'm out. Unlike the two you, I'm not satisfied living a lie."

"That is such fucking bullshit!" Kitty hissed darkly, her pupils shifting to slits.

"Excuse you?"

"You do nothing but lie to yourself about your relationship with Xander." Kitty approached Spikes, shoving her backwards.

"Don't talk down on me from your fucking high horse when you're being a hypocrite."

"My situation with Xander is different." Spikes barked back, but she could feel her strength leave her.

"You're miserable with him and you keep lying to yourself, telling yourself that you're happy but you're not. You talk like you're so independent but you're such a submissive piece of shit. 
He keeps hurting you, and you keep fucking allowing it to continue." Kitty crossed her arms over her chest, glaring at Spikes.
"So don't you dare talk to me about lying to myself."

Takado stood speechless, glancing between the two girls as Kitty walked away. Spikes bit down on her lip, whistling for Damon as she ran out the door.

Takado sighed heavily, turning to follow after Kitty. He took her hand in his, stopping her from walking away.

"Are you okay Kitty?" He asked, stepping closer to her.

"I'm fine." Kitty grumbled. She looked down at her feet, letting her hair fall in her face.

"Doesn't seem like it." He whispered, pulling her into his arms. She nuzzled against his chest as tears began to fall down her cheeks.

"I'm sorry. I know I shouldn't have said any of that." Kitty whimpered, balling his shirt in her fists.
"I just got so angry. There was no reason for her to start getting angry at me."

Takado rest his head on top of Kitty's, softly rubbing her back as she cried.

"You're alright Kitty-kat. No,you shouldn't have said those things but she did push you." Takado whispered.
"Just apologize when you see her after you've both calmed down. She'll understand you were only speaking out of anger."

Takado smiled at her, taking a step back and wiping a tear away from her eye.

"Cheer up. A smile suits you much better than tears."

"You don't think she was right, do you?" Takado hesitated, running a hand through his hair.
"About us, I mean."

"No she's just... stupid." Kitty responded, tears welling in her eyes once more.
"We're just friends. We can't ever be anything else."

"Why not?" Takado asked. Kitty looked up at him, her eyes wide, scared.

"Because I'm a cat. You hate cats, remember?"

"Other cats." Takado took a step closer to her.
"I remember telling you very recently that I didn't dislike you anymore."

"That doesn't mean you like me though." Kitty took a step back, rubbing her hand along her arm.
"You've always said you wouldn't want a cat."

"Well, what if I met one that changed my mind?"

Kitty's eyes shifted to slits again, surprising herself at the burning jealousy she felt.
She clenched her fists, her nails digging into her hands.

"Must have been someone pretty spectacular." Kitty hissed despite herself.

"Yeah she is." Takado sigh, shaking his head gently.
"Recently you made me realize something."

"And what's that?"

"If I meet the perfect woman for me, I shouldn't let her go. For any reason." Takado smiled softly as her eyes met his.
Tears in her eyes, that shone with jealousy.
"Especially not just because she's a cat."

Takado grabbed her arm, heart beating rapidly as he tried to think of what else to say to her. What would get through her thick head.
Takado pulled Kitty by the arm he had been holding onto and wrapping his free arm around her waist and met his lips to hers.

Kitty's eyes were wide in stunned silence for a moment before pulling her arm from Takado's grip.
She wrapped her arms around his neck, running her fingers through his hair.
His hands found her waist, pulling her in closer.

Kitty felt a tear slip down her cheek and pushed him away.
They both stared at each other, breathing heavily.

"Kitty-"

"We shouldn't have done that." Kitty barely whispered. She took a step back from him.

"What?" Takado stuttered slightly.

"You're my best friend's brother, Takado." Kitty was barely able to speak through her tears.
"She just got you back. She's going to think I'm taking you away from her."

Takado's eyes were on the ground, fists balled at his sides. Takado shook his head.
He stepped closer to Kitty, pulling her into his arms with little protest.

"To hell with that." Kitty felt Takado's arms tighten around her.
"I've given up enough for her. It's my turn to be happy."

"Takado, what are you talking about?" Kitty didn't try to move. She reached her hands up, softly stroking his cheek.

"I gave up everything to raise and protect her." Takado rest his forehead against hers.
"I don't care what Carissa has to say about this. I want you, and if you want me then there is nothing in this world that will stop me."

"Takado, I don't think that-"

"Do you want me?"

"Takado that isn't-"

"Do you want me, Katherine?"

"Yes Takado, but-"

"Then I'm not letting you say no. I know for a damn fact you feel the same way about me that I do you." Takado pulled her by the waist, crushing his lips against hers.

Kitty squeaked, but didn't stop him.

A soft purr escaped her as Takado ran his hand down her back.

"Damnit Takado, we shouldn't be doing this." Kitty hissed as he pulled away, though she made no effort to distance herself.

"Shouldn't isn't no." Pulling her into another kiss.

"Takado stop!" Kitty shouted, pushing him off of her.
"I can't... Spikes would..."

"Why do you keep telling me to stop, when it's so obvious you want this as bad as I do?" Takado cupped her cheek in his hand.

“I can hear your heartbeat racing. I can feel you quiver with anticipation when I’m this close to you. I can see the way your eyes shine when you look at me. So tell me the real reason you’re trying to push me away Kitty-Kat.”

Kitty stared at him, utterly speechless as she gazed into his eyes.
Jade eyes that were begging her to give them a chance.

"I'm sorry Takado. I want-" Kitty paused sniffing the air.
"Takado did you turn the stove off?"

"What are you-" Takado groaned as the scent reached him.
"Crap."

He released her reluctantly and made his way back into the Kitchen. Kitty followed closely behind him, pausing in the archway.

Kitty watched him, the longing she felt making her chest ache.
Her heart skipped a beat when he'd glance over his shoulder to her, a sad smile on his lips.
Kitty felt the sting of tears in her eyes once more.

"Kitty..." His voice was gentle, his warm hand resting against her arm.
"I never thought I'd say this but... Look I think there's something here, and I want to give us a chance. I want to be with you."

Kitty's throat was dry, she was at a loss for words again. Always at a loss for words with him. Always afraid to say the wrong thing.

"I understand if you don't want to be with me though" Takado scoffed his eyes on the ground.
"I was horrible to you before. My distaste of cats must be hard on you, and I was a monster in my past. I wouldn't want me either-"

"I want to be with you." Kitty squeaked. She grabbed his arms, shaking as she did.
"I'm just scared. I'm scared that this is temporary, that one day you'll decide you hate me as much as any other cat. I'm scared of losing Spikes.
Takado I'm terrified of everything that could go wrong because I have never felt this way about another person."

Takado's features softened. He pulled Kitty into his arms and began stroking her hair.

"I've never felt this way either." Takado admitted, catching Kitty by surprise.

"I can't promise you everything will be okay. It might not. We could end disastrously."

"How is that supposed to make me feel better?" Kitty glared at him. He sighed, a light chuckle leaving his lips as he smiled at her.

"I'm not finished." He leaned over, kissing her forehead briefly.
"Or it could beautiful. We could fall in love, get married, and so much more. There's a lot that could go wrong, but I'll risk it for all the things that could go right."

"Takado..." Kitty whimpered, tears on the verge of falling from her eyes.

"I'm not a perfect person, I don't think I'm even a good person, but I promise that I will be my absolute best for you, Katherine."

Kitty inhaled sharply, wrapping her arms around his neck. Takado leaned over.
His eyes closed as he went to kiss her forehead. Kitty pushed herself onto her toes, meeting her lips to his.
His eyes shot open. Shock settling in before he grabbed her waist, leaning into her kiss.

"You should probably finish cooking before Spikes gets back." Kitty said softly, taking a step back from him.

"Probably." He grinned at her, lifting her into his arms and kissing her.

"But it can wait."