“Four Calling Birds,” Spike grumbled at Xander as the four girls called for the pair to hurry.  Neither man was very interested in going to the Christmas party and certainly not one held at Angel’s hotel.  Even sweet, quiet Tara was pushing Christmas joy and harmony with the Sultan of Hair Products. 

 

However, neither of them was able to stand up to the combined power of the four women pouting at them.  Therefore, they were following behind un-joyfully, each one caught in the fantasy of stringing Angel up with garland. 

 

“We have so got to learn to say no,” Xander grumbled back at him.  Spike snickered. 

 

“Not going to happen pet, when it comes to those four we’re bloody well whipped,” Spike told his lover. 

 

Xander laughed ruefully.  Never was a truer word spoken.  All Willow, Dawn, Tara and Buffy had to do was look at them with soft sad eyes and they caved faster than a bee swarmed honey. 

 

“At least we get to spend the next four days tormenting Deadboy.  The girls were nice enough not to make us promise to behave,” Xander said cheerfully. 

 

Spike perked up at that reminder.  “You’re right luv, bloody sweet of them, that.  I think we’ll be taking a room close to Peaches.  I wanna see him after you spend the night screamin’ my name.” Spike said with a leer.

 

Xander snorted again, “We’ll see who’s screaming whose name Bleachie,” Xander vowed as the two shared an evil smile and hurried to catch up with the girls.  Christmas was meant for happiness.  For Spike and Xander that meant tormenting, Angel and shagging like bunnies on crack.