Spike knowing he's being used by Buffy, but aching to be used more is a twist, and you make it work without losing the character voices or canon attitudes. Spike's need to belong to someone was beautifullly described here: But he needs to wanted, needs to be taken in hand and owned. He feels safe in cuffs. He misses being bound and used, knowing that for that moment he is utterly and completely desired.

That this leads to dark fantasies about Xander worked, and I enjoyed how Xander unwittingly bursts in on the tail end of one of Spike's sexual fantasies. About him. That last paragraph was vivid and speaks to Spike's need for dominance and violence. Even he realizes Xander wouldn't fulfill his fantasy, but he still holds out hope. Poor Spike, he keeps going after the wrong person.

Thanks for this terrific, dark read.