Under the Circumstances

Author: Angel's Kuuipo

Rating: PG13 for now (Will probably go up as story progressess)

Pairing: Willow/Angel

Disclaimer: I bow to the altar of the genius that is Joss.  Angel and Co. don't belong to me, much to my regret.  No insult or injury is intended and I promise to return them when I'm done.  Angel may be late, cause he is just such a nummy treat.

Distribution: If you have stuff of mine it's yours iffin you want it.  Anyone else just ask.  I'll say yes, just want to know where it's going.

Feedback: Well...yeah.  Gives me all sorts of warm fuzzies.  Be honest but be kind.  Mean words make me not want to write anymore and I really like to write.

Author's Note: This is my first attempt at a W/A fic.  It's AU set in 19th century London Society.  Angel and Spike aren't vampires.  Spike is William.  Buffy is a bitch, but not the Slayer.  There are no vampires or demons in this fic, only human monsters (and really aren't they scarier?) <>= person's thoughts.

Author's Note 2: For Susi, my beta and list mum extraordinaire.  Big thankee for convincing me that those horrid words from that mean person didn't mean squat.

Summary: I suck at these, but here goes.  Due to a unique set of circumstance Willow and Angelus must get married.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
 
 

~Part: 1~

Willow Bergen sat, staring at her uncle in horror; all color had leached from her already pale skin and she fought against the nausea that had welled up at his words.  With great effort she finally managed to speak.

“You did what?”

Her uncle, Ira Rosen, glared at her in annoyance and thinly veiled disgust, “What is so difficult to understand?  You are being given to Lord Angelus Connors, Earl of Ravenshawk, to cover my debts of honor.  He is being gracious enough to actually marry you, so there is really nothing for you to worry about.  I’d think you would be happy to finally be wed.  It’s not as though you’re likely to have any other offers.  You are not getting any younger.”

Willow stared at her guardian in disbelief.  His last comment pricked her ire and the fine Irish temper she kept hidden was straining to break free.  //Not getting any younger?  I’m only twenty-one, hardly ready to be put on the shelf.  So what if I haven’t had many suitors?  Is it my fault that most of the men of the ton are insufferable self-important prigs who don’t appreciate a woman who speaks her mind?//  “Happy uncle?” She started in a low voice, “You’re under the hatches and I’m being made to suffer for your foolishness and you think I should be happy?  I have met Lord Angelus several times and every time he has ignored me in favor of Buffy Summers.  Why would he agree to this and why on the goddess’ green and verdant earth would I want to marry a man who would actually take a living human being as payment for a gambling debt?”

Ira glared at his niece, “The arrangements have already been made, and settlements agreed upon.  You will be married by special license at sunset tomorrow.  Lord Angelus will be joining us for dinner this evening so I suggest you go make yourself presentable.  Now, if there is nothing further, I have an appointment with my solicitor.”  With that Ira dismissed his tiresome niece without another word.

Willow sat for another moment, silently seething before rising gracefully and heading for the door.  Just before she exited the study her uncle said, “And Willow, make sure you are here for dinner.  You won’t like the consequences if you are not.”

Willow didn’t answer except to slam the door behind her.  The redhead stalked to the sitting room hoping to find her aunt.  She wasn’t disappointed.  Sheila Rosen sat working on a sampler.  Willow sighed as she watched the woman take a long drink straight from a bottle of laudanum.  “Were you privy to this disaster, aunt?”

Sheila looked up and frowned blearily at the sight of her pale niece.  “What are you talking about, dear?”

“I’m talking about your husband, my dear uncle, using me as payment for his gambling debts.  Were you aware that he has apparently gone through my father’s entire estate in the four years since my parents died?  I’m being married off to a virtual stranger because your husband is a complete and utter bastard!”  Willow finished by yelling the last.  She didn’t care if the servants heard her or if her uncle came in and beat her in front everyone.

Sheila flinched at her niece’s tone, but didn’t really understand her words in her drug-induced haze.  “I’m afraid I don’t know what you are talking about dear.  Perhaps you should talk to your uncle.”

Willow pressed the heel of her hands against her eyes and bit her lip to keep from screaming at the top of her lungs in sheer frustration.  Shaking her head she growled, “Never mind.  Crawl back into your bottle, aunt.  I’m going out.  I’ll be back for dinner this evening.”

Willow made it to her room before she let the tears fall. There was a soft knock on the door and then her maid, Faith, entered.  The aristocratic redhead and the lower born brunette were the best of friends and there wasn’t anything they didn’t tell each other.  Faith sat next to Willow on the bed and gathered the crying girl in her arms.  Faith had only seen her friend cry a handful of times in the five years they’d known each other and this was by far the worst bout yet.  She hadn’t cried this much when her parents died.  “What’s wrong, Will?  I heard you yelling downstairs.”

When the sobs subsided somewhat Willow told her what happened.  Faith was beside herself with anger at Willow’s uncle’s actions, but she was secretly pleased at the outcome.  Faith had heard rumors that the handsome Lord fancied her employer, though Willow seemed to think he was on about some little blonde, and to her this just proved it.

Willow wiped at her eyes and sniffed.  She said softly, “Will there ever come a time when women won’t be treated at commodities or possessions?  Will we ever be able to make our own decisions and live our lives on our own terms?”

Faith shrugged, “I don’t know, Will.  There are some that already do and those ladies are very much outcasts and not accepted in your world.  Who knows what the future holds?  Anything is possible.”

Willow smirked, “Well that was a satisfyingly vague answer.  Thank you for the almost pep talk.”

Faith smirked back at her, “In five years have you ever known me to lie to you?”

“No and that’s one of the reasons I love you so much.  Help me change.  I need to get out of here and clear my head.  I’m going for a ride.”  Willow stood and looked around her room.  Everything she held dear after her parents’ death four years previous was in this room.  “I suppose you’d best start packing our things.  If I’m to be married tomorrow at sunset, I’m fairly certain I’ll not be returning to this place.”  She sneered then, “Maybe this farce of a marriage does have its upside.”

Faith looked at her mistress as she helped the redhead into her hunter green riding habit, “What do you mean farce?  I can’t see Angelus marrying you if he didn’t intend for it to be real.”

Willow shook her head, “I don’t know what his motivations are, but it’s not for any burning desire for me.  He’s enamored of Buffy’s charms and has been since I was introduced to him.  He’s said no more than a handful of words to me.  I’d be surprised if he actually knows my name.  Perhaps in time, once we get to know each other, I’ll be willing to consummate the union, but not right now.  If Angelus has a problem with that, well that will be just too bad won’t it?”

Faith held her tongue.  From what she’d heard of Lord Angelus, he wasn’t the type to wait.  If there was something he wanted he went after it with single-minded intensity until it was his.  //Well if anything the next few weeks will be interesting// she thought to herself.

“Dinner is at eight, Will.”

Willow nodded, “I’ll be back in time.”

“It will be dark soon.”

“I can take care of my self.  You know that.”

“I know, but I still want you to be careful.”

“When am I not?”

“Do you really want me to answer that?”

*********

“Are you sure you know what you’re doing, Angelus?”  William Cavanaugh, Viscount St. Justin, asked for the umpteenth time.

Angelus Connors growled and glared at his best friend, “Will you stop asking me that?  You heard Rosen last night.  If I hadn’t offered to take Willow as payment for Rosen’s debts he would have turned her over to that bastard Rayne to be his bit on the side.  A life like that would kill her.  Willow Bergen deserves much more than that.”

William nodded, “I agree.  She’s a nice enough chit, but marriage?  I thought you were considering that Summers girl.  I didn’t know you’d paid that much attention to Miss Bergen.”

Angelus winced, “I haven’t and it’s my own fault.  If you can believe it, the girl intimidates me a bit.  I’m afraid of not being able to hold my own in a conversation with her.”  William raised his scarred eyebrow in question and Angelus nodded sheepishly.  It was true that Willow was highly intelligent, but Angelus was no ignorant hayseed.  Before William could comment, Angelus continued, “Then Buffy would usually sink her little claws into me every time I’d try to talk to Willow.  By the time I’d manage to get rid of that annoying blonde she’d have disappeared.  For having such striking coloring Miss Bergen certainly knows how to hide herself in plain sight.  I don’t know what she thinks of me.”

William snorted, “Well, if she’s been told she’s payment for a debt, I’m thinking her opinion isn’t very high.  It’s almost like being sold into slavery.”

Angelus looked at his friend, affronted, “I’ll treat her well.”

“Oh, I know you will, mate, but keep in mind that the redhead probably has the temper to match and she can’t be happy to know that she’ll be marrying a virtual stranger in about twenty four hours.”  William shook his head, “Hardly the romantic fantasy most girls have of their marriage.  I wouldn’t be expecting a wedding night anytime in the near future.”

Angelus sat quietly and stared into the fire.  He hadn’t thought about that.  They needed to consummate their union to avoid the possibility of an annulment, but he didn’t want to force her.  He closed his eyes and brought up her face in his mind.  Willow wasn’t classically beautiful, but she was very striking in her own way.  Her fiery hair was by far her most noticeable feature.  The mane was thick and held the slightest curl.  Angelus imagined combing his fingers through the silky tresses and bit back a groan.  He wondered just how long it was.  Then there were her eyes, large emerald green pools that sparkled with humor and intelligence.  He was certain he could get lost in them if he had the chance.  She had a pert nose, stubborn chin and delicate jaw, and a very kissable mouth.  He smirked faintly as he pictured her mouth, the way one corner would quirk up when she was amused, but didn’t want to laugh out loud, or the habit she had of nibbling on her bottom lip when she was nervous or thinking.  It would definitely be no hardship to bed the girl.  He just had to convince her to be agreeable.  Angelus smiled slowly and opened his eyes.

He met William’s curious and amused gaze, “We’ll see about that, boyo.  I may not have charmed her in the past, but she’ll have my sole attention now.  I haven’t met a woman yet who could resist me for long.”

William laughed, “Careful with the ego there, mate.”  He sobered and continued, “Tread lightly with her or you’ll both wind up miserable for the duration of your marriage.”

Angelus nodded then stood, “Come on.  I’m supposed to sup with my intended tonight.  I want to work off my irritation at seeing her uncle before then.  Let’s go for a ride.”

~Part: 2~

Willow rode through Hyde Park with reckless abandon.  She gave her mare, Celtic Myst, her head and let the breeze clear her mind.  As Willow rode, her thoughts drifted toward her soon to be husband. She sighed unconsciously.  Angelus was by far one of the most handsome men she’d ever met.  He was tall, broad, and muscular.  It was evident that he needed no padding to falsely accentuate his attributes.  He dressed conservatively, but stylishly, avoiding the more garish colors worn by many of the young fops of the ton.  He reminded Willow of a sleek panther hunting amidst brightly colored birds.  His hair was long and dark and he held it back tied in a leather thong.  Thin, but sensual lips, a strong jaw and nose, high bluntly carved cheekbones, and a slightly prominent brow over the most beautiful pair of dark chocolate brown eyes she’d ever met.  When she’d first been introduced to him, her first impression was of dark, predatory power.  His aura was intense and Willow had been a little afraid of him, but she felt she could like him if given the chance.

The few times they’d met, Angelus had been polite if not distracted.  She had heard nothing unkind about him.  In fact, she hadn’t heard much about him at all.  She gathered he was an intensely private man.  That suited her well.  She wasn’t prone to gossip and though she’d been the subject of the mill on more than one occasion, she tried to avoid the spotlight.  Her mouth turned down at that last thought.  She would certainly find herself the center of attention after tomorrow, wouldn’t she?  Willow wondered if she’d be able to persuade Angelus into taking an extended leave of absence until the furor of their sudden marriage died down.  The thought of facing Buffy Summers was almost enough to make her want to leave London forever.  The redhead reined in her horse as she finally realized that she wasn’t so much opposed to marrying the man, as she was the circumstance surrounding the necessity of the act.  She felt very cheap, having been handed over with no regard for her opinion on the matter, and she wondered exactly had transpired to lead her to this place in her life.

Willow became aware of someone calling her name and she shook herself free of her musings.  Turning Celtic Myst around she came face to face with the object of her thoughts.

She blanched at seeing him, but recovered quickly.  “Lord Connors, Lord Cavanaugh, imagine seeing you here this evening.”

William smiled charmingly and inclined his head in greeting, “Good evening Miss Bergen.”

Angelus studied his soon to be wife in the fading light of the spring day. Several strands of titian hair had escaped from her coiffure, giving Willow an almost ravished look.  Color was high in her cheeks from the breeze that had been kicked up by her run and her green eyes sparkled.  //Oh yes, I believe I’ve made a fine choice.  If only the circumstances were different.//  He smiled and said, “Miss Bergen, it is a pleasure to see you.  I hope you are well.”

Willow cocked an elegantly arched brow, “Do you now?  Yes, I suppose you would.  After all, you wouldn’t want to be burdened by a sickly wife now would you?”

William bit his lip and Angelus winced slightly, “You uncle has spoken to you then?”

Willow leaned forward and rested an arm across her saddle horn.  She narrowed her eyes and said, “Oh yes.  Dear uncle Ira was gracious enough to inform me that you accepted me in lieu of monetary payment for his ‘debts of honor’, as he put it.  Tell me, milord, just how much of my father’s estate did you take my imbecile of an uncle for last night?  How much am I worth?”  Willow was oblivious to anyone other than the man before her.  She was beyond caring if anyone overheard their conversation.

Angelus, on the other hand, was all too aware of the other riders in the park.  He maneuvered his bay stallion, Legend, closer to Willow’s black mare and said quietly, “Willow, this is not the place for this conversation.  Believe me when I say, I understand that you are angry, and you have every right to be, but can we please not cause a scene?  I give you my word that I will tell you why I did what I did, just not here.”

Willow bit her lip in consternation and looked around.  There weren’t many people around the trio, but that wasn’t the point.  She met Angelus’ dark eyes and said, “My apologies, my lord.  You are quite right.  I did not mean to cause a scene.”

Angelus smiled, “Quite all right.  I’m sure this has not been a pleasant day for you.”  Willow snorted delicately and his smile turned into a grin, “Though you may be displeased by this turn of events, I must say I am quite happy with how things have turned out.  I would not have made this agreement if I did not think we would suit.”  He straightened and moved his stallion away.  Inclining his head, Angelus said, “I look forward to dinner, milady.  I will be there at seven thirty.”  With that he turned his horse and set off at a gallop, leaving Willow staring after him, and William watching the petite redhead try to gather her self.

William said softly, “Give him a chance, Miss Bergen.  What he did was to protect you.”

Willow turned her gaze and met his striking cerulean blue eyes.  She liked William Cavanaugh.  He was quiet and almost shy, though Willow could sense a restrained power under the surface.  Where Angelus wore his power like a cloak, William kept his hidden.  She thought it probably worked to his advantage, that people would underestimate him and give him an unseen edge.  He was also quite handsome with short light brown hair that fell in soft tousled curls, sharply defined cheekbones, and a full sensual mouth.  He was currently courting her friend Drusilla and Willow thought they suited each other well.  Then her thoughts returned to her present predicament, “What do you mean protect me?”

William shook his head, “It’s not my place to say.  Just know that what he did was with honorable intentions.”  Changing the subject he asked, “May I escort you home, milady?  It’s getting late.”

Willow looked at the sky and realized that it was indeed getting late.  She’d have to hurry if she wanted to take a bath before dinner.  She smiled, “Thank you, milord, you may.”

“Please, call me William.”

“Then you may call me Willow.”  The two rode back towards the entrance to the park.  William took her mind off the coming dinner until they reached her uncle’s home.  She looked at the young man and said, “Would you like to join us this evening, William?  I can’t guarantee that the company will be all that pleasurable, but the food will be outstanding.”

William chuckled, “I don’t know if I should.  This is a special occasion.”

“Piffle.  This is my uncle celebrating finally being rid of me.  The more miserable he can make me the happier he will be.  If you’re there along with Angelus we should be able to turn the tables and annoy him to no end.”

William stared at the redhead for a moment before throwing his head back and laughing.  It was a full rich sound and Willow smiled in bemusement at his actions.  “I amuse you, milord?”

William quieted and said, “I do believe Angelus has met his match.  You will be good for him sweet Willow.  I would be honored to join you this evening.”

“Good.  Dinner will be served at eight o’clock.  I believe Angelus will be arriving at seven thirty.”

William gave her a slight bow, “Until then, milady.”

*********

Dinner was an unmitigated disaster.  Willow’s aunt was so far into an opium-induced stupor that she nearly fell asleep with her face in her soup bowl.  Willow’s uncle was vastly annoyed that she had invited William to dine with them and spent the bulk of the evening insulting her.  The more sniping Ira did the quieter Willow became, refusing to rise to the bait.  She was loath to let the insults go without comment, but she would not embarrass herself in front of her betrothed and his best fried, and comforted her self with the thought that she wouldn’t have to put up with it after tomorrow.  She smiled weakly at Angelus and William, silently apologizing for her guardians’ behavior.

Angelus and William were stunned at the amount of hostility in the room.  Angelus had had a fairly decent impression that Rosen was a bastard, but the way he treated his niece, especially in front of guests, was appalling.  He was more certain than ever that he was doing the right thing by marrying her.  William was very close to hitting the man sitting at the head of the table.  The slurs he made against his own flesh and blood were unconscionable.  And the woman, Sheila, was a complete waste of space.  Both men’s estimation of Willow grew over the course of the meal.

When it was finally over and Rosen invited the men for after dinner port both Angelus and William refused.

William said stiffly, “No thank you, Rosen.  I believe I should take my leave.  The evening has been most…enlightening.”  He turned to Willow and took her hand to place a kiss on the back of it.  “Miss Bergen, it was a pleasure to be in your company this evening.  I look forward to a more joyful opportunity.”  For her ears only he said, “Chin up love.  It will get better.”

Willow smiled at him and said softly, “Thank you, milord.”  She tightened her grip on his hand and whispered, “Please don’t leave yet.  I want you to be there when I speak with Angelus.  You can go through the side gate into the garden.  We’ll be out there shortly.”

William hesitated, but when he met her pleading green gaze he inclined his head slightly in acknowledgment.  He nodded at Angelus and left.

Angelus wondered what the pair had been talking about, but figured he would find out soon enough.  He looked at his host, “I believe Miss Bergen and I have some matters to discuss.”

Ira snorted, “Don’t see why you need to talk to the chit. I’ll make sure she shows up for the ceremony tomorrow then you can dump her off in a corner somewhere and go on about your life.”

Willow gasped and Angelus barely reined in the urge to slam his fist into the older man’s face.  He opened his mouth to speak, but Willow beat him to the punch.  She stood, trembling in a fine rage, “For four years I have put up with your belittling, beatings, and mocking of me.  I have no idea what I ever did to make you hate me so much, but know this: After the ceremony tomorrow you and dear aunt Sheila are dead to me.  You will not be welcome in my new home and you will not be acknowledged as my kin.  I have had enough.”  She turned to Angelus, “My lord, would you be so kind as to escort me to the gardens?  I believe that would be a suitable location for our discussion.”

Angelus smiled warmly at her and offered his arm, “Lead the way my dear.”  He noticed her slight flinch at the endearment and filed it away to ask her about later.  The couple left Ira Rosen gaping after them.

Once they reached the gardens Willow collapsed on one of the stone benches.  She took several deep breaths before looking up at her betrothed, “Forgive me, my lord.  I hope I did not overstep myself by barring my aunt and uncle from your home.”

“Our home.”  Willow looked at him curiously and Angelus explained, “It will be our home and no you did not overstep yourself.”  He smiled, “In fact, I was most pleased by your speech.  I was going to say something similar myself.”

“What did I miss?”

Angelus turned at the voice and saw William leaning against one of the gas lamps that studded the gardens.  “What are you still doing here?”

Willow answered him, “I asked him to stay.  I want to know what happened to put you and I in this situation and I think with William here, you’d be less likely to lie to me.”

Angelus studied her for a moment.  He frowned, “You think I would lie to you?”

Willow lowered her eyes to study the gravel, “I don’t know you well enough to say, but I do know William and he won’t lie to me.”  She looked up at him, “Why have you suddenly decided to shackle yourself to a woman you barely know and from what I’ve seen, have absolutely no interest in?  I’m not your type as you’ve proven by your continued ignoring of me at various functions.  What could have possibly prompted you to accept a living human being as payment?”

~Part: 3~

Angelus stood, contemplating her questions.  Finally, he sat down beside her and took one of her hands in his, “I must apologize to you, Willow.  I never intended to give you the impression that I was not interested in you.  You have enchanted me since the moment we met, but I was unsure of how to speak with you.  I have seen you flay men alive with your tongue when they have spoken a cross word to you and I feared making the same mistake.  I think Osbourne is still piecing together his pride after you got through with him at the Madison soiree.  No, don’t turn away, I did not mean it as an insult.  You speak your mind and I admire that.  Your opinions and thoughts are valid and deserve to be heard.  I…I did not want to alienate you by saying something foolish.”  He quieted for a moment to let her absorb what he had said.

Willow studied their clasped hands.  She knew many men of the ton considered her to be a shrew.  She didn’t mean to be, but she could not abide being talked down to or ignored.  The thought that she scared the man next to her brought a small smile to her lips.  Then she scowled and raised her eyes to meet his, “What about Buffy?”

Angelus grimaced and William snickered softly.  Angelus said, “Buffy Summers is an air-brained chit sent on a mission by her mama to secure a good match and I was the unlucky one she set her sights on.  I have never been so bored in my life as when she is around.”

“You must be bored quite often then,” Willow said softly.

Angelus closed his eyes for a moment before reopening them.  “She is persistent, I’ll grant you.  I know the two of you do not get along and I found it easier to just remove her from your vicinity.  By the time I could get away from her myself I wouldn’t be able to find you again.  You must teach me how to disappear in plain sight,” He finished with a small smile.

She returned it and said quite seriously, “I learned from you.”  At his blank look, she explained, “You have a habit of using the shadows around you to fade in and out.  There is a stillness about you that causes less aware people to ignore your presence if you do not wish to be bothered.  I’ve been taking lessons.”

Angelus sat back, stunned at her words.  It was true that he could blend into his surroundings if he wished, but he was unaware that anyone would ever notice.  The thought worked its way in that she had been studying him and he smiled.

William had been listening quietly.  At Willow’s last words he laughed softly.  She looked at him, “What’s so funny William?”

“Less aware people.  Angelus has spent many a night looking for you in crowded ballrooms and there you were using his own tricks against him.  I do think the two of you will be the toast of Society.”

Willow wrinkled her nose, “Just what I’ve always wanted, to be more so under the microscope of the ton than I already am.”

Angelus squeezed her hand gently, “No one would dare speak ill of you as my wife, Willow.”

She snorted delicately, “Oh, they’ll dare all right.  This will set the gossipmongers on their ear.  Speculation will run rampant and calendars will be counted just waiting for me to bear a child.”  She missed the widening of Angelus’ eyes, but William did not.  He could see that his friend had not considered the thought of actually having a family.  Willow continued on, “Of course the ton thinking we were indiscreet is better than knowing I was sold to pay off gambling debts.  Which brings us to the other reason we’re here.  What happened?”

Angelus shook himself out his musings at the thought of seeing Willow grow round with his child.  His trousers were suddenly uncomfortably tight and he shifted his position on the bench to try to bring him self some measure of relief.  He scowled, “I will not let it be bandied about that we put the cart before the horse.”

“You can’t stop people from forming their own conclusions, Angelus.  I don’t really care what people think of me.  I never have.”

William said, “Don’t worry love.  I think we’ll be able to set this up as the romance of the Season.  With the help of the Chase’s, Harris’, and the Giles’, we’ll set about a right proper tale that will shoot down all attempts at marring your good name.”

“Do they all know what happened?”  Willow asked in wide-eyed alarm.  The thought of her dearest friends knowing the circumstances of her marriage made her ill.

William saw her pale and explained; “Robert Chase, Xander Harris, and Rupert Giles were the other players last night.  They agreed to help us avoid scandal. With those families aid your position will be inviolate.”

Willow removed her hand from Angelus’ and wrapped both arms around her waist.  Robert Chase was her friend Cordelia’s older brother.  Xander Harris was a childhood friend and Cordelia’s fiancé.  Rupert Giles was like a father to her since her own had passed away.  The thought of all three of them bearing witness to her humiliation was almost too much.  Willow had never hated her uncle more than she did at that moment.  She rocked back and forth with her head bowed before she pulled herself together and got up to start pacing.  “You’ve stalled long enough.  I want to know what happened last night.”

Angelus sighed and stood as well.  He studied the stars as he spoke, “William and I were invited to a very private card game hosted by Ethan Rayne.  I was not going to attend, but I heard that your uncle would be there and I wanted to use the opportunity to ingratiate myself to him, in hopes of him speaking a kind word to you on my behalf.”  Willow let out a bark of mirthless laughter and Angelus smiled grimly and looked at her, “Yes, well, I understand after last night and tonight that it was unwise, but I had not met him before then.  The terms of the game were that all debts must be paid at the end of the evening.  The evening was rather quiet until the end.  William, Chase, Harris, and Giles had dropped out without suffering severe losses.  It was just the three of us left.  I was ahead by a rather large margin.  I folded a hand and left your uncle and Rayne to go head to head.  Your uncle lost, badly.  At the time we did not realize that he didn’t have the blunt to cover his losses.  Rayne was getting quite angry.  Rosen was trying to talk his way out of a beating when he offered you to Rayne for him to use however he saw fit.”

Both William and Angelus watched as Willow stopped pacing and turned to look at them.  Her pixie face was completely expressionless.  Then she swayed on her feet and Angelus lunged to catch her before she fell.  Silent tears rolled down her face as he sat back down and gathered her onto his lap.  William took out a handkerchief and handed it to Willow.  Angelus rocked her gently, “Hush kitten.  I assure you that our friends were appalled by the proposal, but Rayne was quite taken with the idea.  He was about to accept when I intervened and offered to pay off your uncle’s debt in exchange for your hand in marriage.  I also threatened to scuttle several profitable business deals Rayne and I are involved in if he refused and word of this was ever spoken.  Your uncle agreed and Rayne knows better than to breathe a word of what went on.  The others, as William said, are going to help us.”

“How much?”  Willow said against his chest.

“What kitten?”  Angelus looked down at the girl in his arms.  He reveled in actually holding her.

“How much did you have to pay?”

Angelus looked at William who was standing in front of them.  The young man was clenching his fists and Angelus could see the muscle in his jaw ticking.  The events of the previous night were not pleasant and seeing the effect of their words on the woman in Angelus’ arms was wearing both men’s control thin.  William met his dark gaze and nodded.  Angelus took a deep breath and said, “Three hundred.”

Willow’s head came up so fast she nearly clipped Angelus on the chin.  With over-bright eyes, she said incredulously, “Three hundred pounds?  That’s what this is over, three hundred miserable quid?  He was going to turn me into a whore for that piddly sum?”

Angelus shook his head, “No love.  Three hundred thousand.”

Willow’s mouth formed a little ‘o’ of shock and Angelus wanted nothing more than to lean down and kiss her.  He refrained because he was fairly certain that if she took offense that she would bite him.  His little kitten definitely had claws.  “Yo-you paid three hundred thousand pounds to marry me?”

“I did and I would pay ten times that amount if necessary.”  Angelus cupped her cheek and stared into her eyes, “I know the circumstances are not ideal and if possible, I would do this much more slowly so that we had the time to get to know one another, but, Willow Bergen, would you be my wife?”

Some part of her had already accepted the necessity of this forced marriage, but hearing Angelus actually ask her to be his wife made Willow’s insides flutter.  She could feel his sincerity and knew if he hadn’t really wanted her, he would have found another way to keep her away from this Ethan Rayne.  She had never met the man and now was in no hurry to do so.  She smiled tremulously and said, “I would be honored, my lord.”

Angelus smiled in relief and decided to take the risk.  He slowly lowered his head and gently pressed his lips to hers.  Willow’s eyes widened for a moment before fluttering shut.  William unobtrusively withdrew to give them some privacy.  Angelus increased the pressure of the kiss and nibbled lightly at her lips.  Willow sighed softly and opened her mouth slightly.  Angelus took advantage and slipped his tongue inside to taste the warm honey of her mouth.  Willow started at the touch of his tongue against hers then tentatively relaxed back into the kiss.  To her he tasted like the merlot he’d drunk at dinner mixed with a flavor that was uniquely his own, like cinnamon and cloves and a touch of vanilla.  She decided she liked it and shyly met his tongue with her own.  Angelus moaned softly and restrained himself from deepening the kiss any further.

Reluctantly, he broke the kiss and leaned his forehead against hers, “Thank you sweet Willow.  You’ve made me very happy.”  He took a steadying breath and set her away from him then stood, thankful that his coat would conceal the evidence of his arousal.  “Will you be ready to leave your uncle’s home tomorrow afternoon?”

It took Willow a moment before she could reply.  She felt very warm and pressed her hands to her cheeks.  She too took a steadying breath and stood as well, “I am ready now, my lord.  I had Faith pack up our belongings as soon as I found out.”  She met his inquisitive gaze and shrugged, “One way or another I was not going to stay here any longer.  If I found I could not abide the thought of marriage to you I was going to disappear, set myself up as a young widow somewhere far away from here.  Regardless of the fact that my uncle may be under the hatches, I am not destitute.  I have my own money that he can never touch.  I would have found a way to survive.”  A shy smile lit up her face and she said softly, “But I think I’ll like being your wife.  Thank you for what you’ve done.”

Angelus smiled and bowed deeply, “Think nothing of it my dear.”  Again he saw Willow flinch and he said, “That endearment causes you pain.  Why?”

Willow looked around to avoid answering.  “Where’s William?”

“Here love,” William replied as he stepped out of the shadows.  “Didn’t want to intrude on your moment.”

Willow blushed lightly and looked down.  Angelus stepped nearer and took her hand.  “Kitten, why don’t you like being called ‘dear’?”

She sighed and looked up at him, “It’s what they call me, and I hate it.  No one puts as much venom into a supposed term of affection as my uncle.  Aunt usually can’t remember my name so she calls me dear instead.  As I said, I hate it.”

“Then it will never pass my lips again,” Angelus said firmly.  Willow smiled faintly.  He brought her hand to his lips and gently brushed them over her knuckles.  “As much as it pains me, I must take my leave now.  There are matters I must attend to before tomorrow evening.  I will send my carriage round to collect you and your belongings tomorrow afternoon.  Is that agreeable?”

“It is, my lord.  I will see you then.”  He dropped her hand and she turned to William, “Thank you for staying tonight.  I appreciate both of you being honest with me.”

William took her hand and repeated the kiss Angelus had given her.  “It was my pleasure, love.  You’ll do my boyo good I think.  Rest easy tonight.”  He smiled, “Tomorrow you’ll be rid of your worthless relatives and set on a new adventure.”

“Yes.  Yes I will.”

~Part: 4~

Willow came out a sound sleep with a scream on her lips.  She tried to roll away from whatever had caused her pain and realized she was on her stomach and her hands were bound to her headboard with the drapery cord.  She felt the lash on her back once again and turned her head the best she could to see her uncle standing beside her bed.  She could smell the alcohol he had been drinking pouring from him in waves and fought back the urge to be sick.  “What are you doing?”  She cried.

Filthy whore!  I know you must have spread your legs for Ravenshawk to get him to marry you.  I had told Rayne you were pure.  We had it all worked out.  He was looking forward to breaking you.  If I had known that whelp had already gotten to you I wouldn’t have tried to finish the deal in front of him.”  As her uncle spoke he kept a steady rhythm with the whip.  Willow’s nightdress provided little protection and she knew he had broken skin.  A couple of lashes caught her upper thighs, but most of the damage was confined to her back.  He finally threw it aside and set the bottle he had been drinking from on the bedside table.  Grasping the hem of her nightdress he slowly started to move it up her legs.  He snarled, “Since you’ve already given yourself to that bastard, I think I’ll find out for myself why he’d be willing to marry you instead of keeping as his whore.  You must be a fine lay for him to shackle himself to mouse like you.”

Something inside Willow broke at the feel of her uncle’s hands on her flesh.  She grabbed hold of the cord binding her wrists and used it as leverage as she twisted her body and lashed out at her uncle with her foot.  She caught him in the chest.  Ira staggered back for a moment then backhanded her across the face.  As he climbed onto the bed Willow kicked out again.  This time she connected solidly with his groin.  Ira howled in pain and reared back, slamming his head against the bedpost and knocking himself out.  He toppled off the bed and Willow lay there for a moment trying to contain her frantic sobs.  Her uncle had beaten her in drunken rages before, but never had he tried to rape her.  Willow’s only thought was that she had to escape.  Ignoring the intense pain in her back she twisted her body around until she could grasp the pull cord next the bed with her feet.  She pulled frantically and Faith came bursting in a few moments later.  The maid took one look at the scene and paled.

“Dear God.  What did he do to you?”  The brunette asked as she quickly untied her mistress and helped her sit up.

“He…he…he tr-tried t-to ra-rape m-me,” Willow stuttered out between sobs.  Faith grabbed the bottle of whiskey from the table and wiped the mouth off.  She held it to Willow’s lips.  When the terrified girl tried to turn her head away, she said softly, but firmly, “Take a drink love.  It’ll help calm you down.”  Willow finally relented and took a deep swallow of the amber liquid.  She shuddered and coughed as it burned its way down, but she had to admit that Faith was right.  Taking a deep breath she painfully stood up and said, “We have to get out of here.  I’ll not stay in this house of horrors for another minute.”

Willow hobbled over to her wardrobe and removed the morning dress she had planned to wear the next day.  All of her other dresses were packed and ready to be moved to Angelus’ home, her new home.  She bit her lip.  She couldn’t go there like this.  She was fairly certain that Angelus would kill her uncle if she showed up at this time of night bloodied and battered.  The thought certainly held appeal, but she would not put him in that position.  She looked at Faith who was taking various items from some of the trunks and packing a small bag for her.  “We’ll go to the Giles’.  Jenny will be able to help me.  I’ll send word to Angelus from there.”

Faith nodded as she turned to help Willow into the dress. Her hands shook as she took in the battered flesh of her friends back and said, “Let me get dressed and I’ll meet you in ten minutes.  Can you ride?”

Willow sat on the bed as Faith put her shoes on.  She groaned in pain as the material of her dress moved over her abused flesh and said, “I’ll suffer through.  They’re only two streets over.”

“It’s three o’clock in the morning.”  There was a soft knock and then the door opened to reveal one of the footmen.

“Devon?”  Willow looked at the young man.

He looked at the floor, “I ‘eard the screamin’, ma’am.  ‘M sorry I didn’t come in sooner.  I’ll protect ye ladies on yer way to yer friend.”

The two women looked at each other then Faith handed Willow’s bag to him and said, “Very well.  Ready the horses.  We’ll be downstairs momentarily.”  Devon nodded and withdrew.

Willow told Faith, “Go on.  I think I can manage to get myself down the stairs.”  They left the room together then separated, Faith heading to the back stair to dress and Willow to the main staircase.  The redhead had just made it to the bottom of the stairs when Faith entered the foyer carrying a bag for her self.  Willow headed to her uncle’s study and returned a few moments later carrying two pistols and a dagger.  Without a word she handed the pistols to Faith and Devon and slipped the dagger into the pocket of her cloak.  She said, “Let’s go.”

Willow mounted Celtic Myst with some difficulty, but her mare sensed her mistress’ distress and stood calmly by.  The trio arrived at the Giles townhouse without incident and in record time.  Though it was painful, Willow set a fast pace in order to put as much distance as possible between her and her uncle.  Willow’s wounds were bleeding badly from the constant movement by the time they arrived.  She knew her dress and probably her cloak were ruined, but she had others.  The important thing had been getting away from her guardians.

When the disgruntled butler opened the door his normally stoic expression slid into one of shock at the sight of Willow being supported by Faith and Devon.  “Miss Bergen my sweet girl, are you all right?”

Willow smiled weakly and shook her head, “Hello Duncan.  No, I’m not all right.  I need Jenny’s help.”

“Of course, of course.  Come in at once.”  Faith and Devon carefully maneuvered their mistress into the front hall.  Duncan moved to take their bags and noticed a trail of blood leading from the front stoop to Willow.  “Dear God child, you’re bleeding.  Quickly, bring her into the parlor.”  He led the way and motioned Devon and Faith to lay her down on the loveseat.  “Mistress will be with you shortly.”  Faith smiled in thanks as she removed Willow’s cloak and spread it out on the couch.  They lay their mistress down on her stomach and the flustered butler practically ran out of the room.

Devon fidgeted nervously and Faith took pity on him.  “Go back home, Devon.  No one will hear from us that you helped us here.  Thank you for that.”

Willow tried to raise her head, but she was feeling very weak.  “Don’t feel bad for not interfering sooner, Devon.  I know my uncle can be intimidating, especially when he’s drunk.”

Devon looked at the two women.  He stuttered out, “I-I d-don’t think I want to work fer a man that could do somethin’ like this.  But I ‘ave no ‘ere else to go.”

“You can come with us to our new home, Devon.  I’d be happy to have you with us,” Willow said softly.

Faith brushed her hair away from her face, “Hush now, Will.  Save your strength.  Would you like Devon to get word to Angelus that you’re here?”

Willow nodded, but before she could tell Devon not to tell Angelus what happened, Jenny and Rupert Giles burst into the room.  Faith moved Devon out of the way and told him where to go.  The young footman slipped out to do his new mistresses bidding.

Rupert looked at the young woman on the couch and cursed long and fluently in a multitude of languages.  The back of Willow’s butter yellow dress was soaked with blood.  “My sweet child, how did you make it here like this?”

“Sheer force of will, Rupert,” Willow answered softly.

Jenny stared, aghast, for a moment then moved forward.  “Rupert we need to get her upstairs.”  The older man moved forward and carefully lifted Willow into his arms.  Willow whimpered in pain and his heart nearly broke.  He walked into one of the guest rooms and gently laid her down on the soft bed.  Jenny turned to Duncan who was hovering nervously at the door, “Duncan, please get me a basin of warm water and some clean cloths.  I’ll also need my herb chest and some bandages.”  The older woman spoke calmly though she was raging inside at the abuse her dear friend had suffered.  Though she was only a few years older than Willow, Jenny thought of her as a daughter.  Jenny began unbuttoning Willow’s dress to assess the damage and asked quietly, “Your uncle?”

Willow nodded, “Drunk.  Tied me up while I was asleep and started whipping me.  Accused me of giving myself to Angelus to coerce a proposal, then tried to sample my wares himself.  I managed to kick him in the groin and he knocked himself out on my bedpost.  Got dressed and came here.  Knew you would help.”  The last was whispered as Willow gave up the battle to stay awake and slipped into the blackness.

“I should have killed him at the card game,” Rupert bit out savagely.

Faith looked at him and said, “When Angelus finds out you may get to help. He’ll probably be here soon.”  Giles looked at her for a moment before nodding.

Duncan came back in with one of the maids and deposited everything Jenny had requested on the bedside table then both quietly withdrew.  Duncan cast one more worried look at the still form on the bed and closed the door.

Tears fell unheeded from Jenny’s eyes.  Faith knelt beside her, “There are a couple of marks on her thighs, but her back is the worst.  We didn’t want to chance him waking up, so I was unable to patch her up before we left.  I don’t think I’ve ever been as close to murder as I was when I ran into her room,” She said quietly as she wiped her own tears away.

Giles growled low in his throat and said, “I’m going to go wait for Angelus.  I’ll leave you ladies to help Willow.”

After he had left, Jenny looked at the dark haired young woman next to her.  “You’re Faith aren’t you?”  Faith looked at her in surprise.  Jenny smiled, “Willow has spoken of you often.  It’s nice to finally meet you.”

Faith smiled, “It’s nice to meet you as well.  I feel like I already know you.”  She sobered, “I need to get this dress off of her.”  Jenny helped her undress the unconscious girl then they both began cleaning her wounds.  Several were rather deep, but none of them required stitches.  Jenny mixed a salve and spread it all over then Faith helped her bandage Willow up.  They had just slipped a clean nightgown on her when there was a knock on the door.

Faith opened it to reveal Giles and Angelus.  The younger man asked without preamble, “How is she?”  Faith moved aside and motioned for the men to come in.

Jenny was smoothing the covers over the sleeping girl.  She answered his question as he sat down in a chair by the bed, “She’s sleeping, passed out about an hour and a half ago.  I’m fairly certain she won’t scar.  She won’t be able to sit comfortably for a few days.  All we can do is wait for her to wake up.”  She moved back to her herb chest and mixed up some more herbs.  She said to Faith, “When she wakes up, mix two spoonfuls of this into a glass of water and have her drink all of it.  It will help with the pain.”

Faith nodded and moved to take the other chair to hold vigil.  Angelus said, “I’ll watch over her.”  He leaned forward and gently brushed his hand over her bruised cheek.

Faith said quietly, “No offense, my lord, but I think the last thing Willow will want to see when she wakes up is a man, even one as handsome as you.  I know you’re anxious, but you don’t want to scare her, do you?”

Angelus studied the brunette who had spoken, “Who are you?”

Faith dropped a small curtsy, “Faith milord.  I take care of Willow.”

“And where were you when she was being attacked?”  He ground out.

Faith didn’t flinch at the deadly tone, “I was asleep in my quarters at the back of the house.  Willow knocked her uncle out and summoned me.  We came here as quickly as we could.  Is there anything else you would like to know?”

“Her uncle attacked her?”  Angelus asked in disbelief.

Faith swallowed, “Devon did not tell you?”

He shook his head, “The boy only told me that Willow had been attacked, was here, and had asked for me.  Tell me what happened.”

Giles finally moved forward, “Perhaps we should have this conversation elsewhere.  If Willow should wake up, I don’t want her to be upset.”

Jenny and Faith looked at each other.  Jenny said, “Go on, Faith.  I’ll stay.”  She looked at Angelus, “And you, Angelus, don’t yell at Faith. She did exactly what she should have.”

Angelus nodded.  He bent over Willow’s still form and gently kissed her cheek, “Don’t worry kitten.  He’ll never harm you again.  I promise.”

~Part: 5~

Ira Rosen woke with a scream on his lips.  His head was pounding, but that was minor in comparison to the pain in his back.  He tried to move away from whatever had hurt him and found that he could not.  Opening bloodshot eyes, his bleary gaze met a damp, stone wall.  As more of his senses came awake, he discovered his arms were chained above him.  Turning his head he realized he was in his basement.  The crack of the whip came again and he cried out as it met his flesh.

“What the bloody hell is going on here?  Let me down this instant!  Who is responsible for this?”

“Well, well, well look who’s decided to join the living again.  I must say Rosen, I was beginning to wonder if you would take the cowards way out and die of alcohol poisoning before we had a chance to talk,” Said a cold voice from behind him.

The whip cracked again and Ira whimpered as it tore into his flesh.  “Ravenshawk?  Is that you?”

“Sharp one, isn’t he?”  Said a different voice, but just as cold.

“Giles?  Someone had better explain themselves or so help me-”

Angelus smiled, though Ira could not see it, “Or so help you what, Rosen?  You are in no position to be making threats.  No, I think you’ll hang there until we’re done.”  He sent the lash out a few more times, rather enjoying the sounds the older man was making.  His smile vanished and he snarled, “Isn’t this what you did to Willow last night?  You should never have touched her you bastard.”

Never having been blessed with an over-abundance of intelligence, he replied sulkily, “Chit messed up my plans.  Had a nice deal worked out with Rayne.  Didn’t know she’d lain with you already.  Why else would you have offered for her?  Then you actually wanted to talk to the little bitch?  Had to remind her of her place.  Can’t haAAAHHHH!”  Rosen’s tirade was cut off as Angelus viciously applied the whip.

“Enough!  Your niece is as pure as the day she was born.  You gave up all rights to her the moment you agreed to let me bail your sorry ass out of the pits.  She is mine.  It was bad enough to take the lash to her and for that you would have paid dearly anyway, but you tried to rape her you miserable fuck.  You’ll be lucky if I don’t kill you here and now.”  The last was said right in the chained man’s ear just before Angelus slammed his fist into his kidney.

Ira howled in pain at the contact.  Suddenly, he was released from his chains and spun around.  Before he could react Angelus decked him in the face and proceeded to beat the ever-loving hell out of the already injured man.  He made it very clear to Rosen that he and Sheila would stay very far away from them and Willow’s name was never to pass his lips again.

Giles stood by, quietly watching the younger man exact revenge for his lady.  If he hadn’t already thought Angelus would be good for Willow he was convinced now.  He was certain the younger man cared deeply for her and would treat her like the treasure she was.  He finally intervened when Rosen lost consciousness and Angelus continued to pound him into the floor.

“Angelus, that’s enough.  The lesson loses its effectiveness if the pupil is not awake to receive it.  Though, I believe he has gotten the point.”

Angelus stood and stared down at the broken man in disgust.  Then he looked at Giles.  The older man took a step back at the feral image he presented.  His dark hair had come loose from its queue and fell wildly about his shoulders and his dark eyes were snapping with barely suppressed violence.  His shirt was splattered with blood and his fists were bruised and bloodied.  The thought that he was seeing an avenging angel in the flesh crossed Giles’ mind and he made a note never to anger this young man.  “Angelus?”

He took a deep breath, “I’m fine, Rupert.  I think I may have gotten a little carried away.”

Giles snorted, “No more than he deserved I assure you.  I can’t tell you how many times Willow has called on Jenny for aid in the past.  She has stayed with us often.  But last night was the worst.  Thank you for allowing me to bear witness.  Come, you need to get cleaned up if you are to see your fiancée.  I would think she’d be waking soon.”

Angelus nodded in agreement and with one last glance at the crumpled form on the floor the two men exited the basement and entered the late spring morning.

*********

Willow moaned and opened her eyes.  //Gods what a horrible nightmare.//  She tried to roll over and a wave of pain hit, making her gasp.  “Oh!”  //Not a nightmare.//

“Willow?”

She turned her head, “Jenny.  What time is it?”

“Good morning, sweetheart.  It’s about eleven,” Jenny replied as she mixed the herbs into a glass of water.  “Let’s get you up so you can drink this.  It will help with the pain.”

Willow bit back a cry as she pushed herself onto her elbows and sat up.  She took the proffered glass and drank the contents.  When she finished she grimaced, “Ack.  Why can’t the remedies ever taste good?”

Jenny chuckled, “I know, awful isn’t it?  But it does work.  I’ll bring you some tea and toast in a bit.”

Willow blushed, “I have to go to the bathroom.”  Jenny helped her out of bed and she slowly made her way to the adjoining bathroom.  When Willow finished, she washed her face, wincing at the pain in her cheek, and rinsed her mouth out with some baking soda and water.  Running a brush through her hair she hobbled back into the bedroom.  “Thank you for helping me last night.”

Jenny smiled, “You’re family, Willow.  You are always welcome here, you know that.”  Then she scowled, “Why you’re parents didn’t set us up as your guardians, I’ll never know.”

Willow smiled sadly as Jenny helped her slip on a dressing gown.  As the two women walked into the adjoining sitting room, Willow said, “Mama thought it would be better to keep it in the family.  I don’t think she realized what a bastard her brother was.”  After Willow eased herself into a chair Jenny twisted her hair up into a loose bun and secured it with a few hairpins for her.

Jenny kissed her on the forehead; “You’re away from them now.  I’ll get you something to eat.  Do you want anything more than toast?”

Willow thought for a moment.  “Perhaps a poached egg?”

Jenny nodded, “I’ll be back soon.”

Before she could leave, Willow said, “Jenny, I need to see Wesley as soon as possible.  Can you have him come round?”

“I’ll send someone for him immediately, Will.”

Willow opened the curtains and sat staring out the window, trying not to think about what had happened the night before.  As cruel as her uncle had been to her over the years, she had never been afraid of him until last night.  Last night he had crossed the line from merely abusive to outright psychotic.

A knock on the door pulled Willow from her thoughts.  “Come in.”

Faith entered, carrying a tray laden with a teapot, two cups, cream, sugar, a plate of buttered toast, a small jar of honey and Willow’s poached egg.  “Morning love.”

“Faith,” Willow smiled at her friend.

“How are you feeling?”  Faith asked as she set the tray on the small table and began pouring.

“Like my back is on fire.  Other than that I’m okay.  Thank you for last night.”

Faith waved her off.  “Pfft.  I’m only sorry I didn’t get to you sooner or that I didn’t take the opportunity to bash your uncle over the head with the fireplace poker.”

As Willow took her teacup she smirked, “Yes, I’m rather disappointed I didn’t take the time to reciprocate either.”  She sighed, “Ah well, it was more important to get out of there in one piece than to exact revenge.  Was word sent to Angelus that I was here?”

“He arrived around five-thirty this morning,” Faith replied as she put Willow’s egg in front of her.  She looked at her and chuckled at the sight of the redhead’s mouth hanging open.  “What?  You thought he would just sit by knowing you were hurt?  Eat before it gets cold.”

“He actually came here?  Is he here now?”  Willow asked as she automatically began eating.  Angelus had come for her?  The thought didn’t want to process.

“He was adamant about watching over you last night, but I convinced him that the last thing you would have wanted to see when you woke up would be a man, even one as handsome as him.  And no, he is not here at the moment.  He and Giles left about an hour ago to attend to some business.”  Faith didn’t want to explain that the two men had gone to Willow’s former home to confront her uncle and gather her belongings.  The maid got up and began making the bed.

“I see.”  Raising her voice slightly, Willow asked, “Do I have any more clothes here?  Wesley should be arriving shortly and it would be inappropriate to meet with him in a dressing gown.”

Faith paused in her task, “Mr. Wyndam-Pryce is coming to see you?”

Willow nodded as she took a sip of tea then realized Faith couldn’t see her.  “Yes, I want to repay Angelus what he paid out for me.  As much as I don’t oppose the thought of marrying him, I do have a problem with being bought.”  She watched the birds outside for a moment as she thought, “I may not be able to repay him fully at this time, but I should at least be able to pay half.”

Faith finished the bed and came in to sit back down across from Willow.  “Are you sure it’s wise to try to repay him?”

“No, but I’m going to try.  If he refuses to accept it, fine.  At least I will have made the attempt.”

Faith nodded and went to the wardrobe.  Pulling out a spring green morning gown, she said, “Right then.  Let’s get you ready.”

*********

“Miss Bergen, it’s lovely to see you again,” Wesley Wyndam-Pryce said as he took her hand.  He frowned at the bruise on her cheek and noted the careful way she was carrying herself.  //Bastard uncle of hers has been at it again.  No wonder she’s here instead of at home.  Oh, if I could get her out of there I would,// the young man thought to himself as Willow smiled warmly.

“Wesley, how many times have I asked you to call me Willow?”  She admonished lightly.

Slipping his glasses on, he flushed lightly, “Yes, well, I’ll try to remember.  How can I be of service to you today, Miss B-Willow?”

Willow motioned him to a chair then carefully sat down across from him.  “I need three hundred thousand pounds.”

Wesley’s mouth opened and closed a few times.  “Thr-three hundred thousand did you say?”

“Yes.”

The solicitor removed a sheaf of papers from his case and scanned them quickly.  “It’s doable, but it will put a considerable dent in your funds.  May I ask why you need such a large sum?”

Willow debated telling him what happened.  Wesley had taken over as her solicitor when his father retired.  She considered him a friend and was confident that he would not spread tales.  She took a breath and said, “I’m getting married.”

Wesley blinked, “Why, that’s wonderful Willow.  Congratulations.”

Willow smiled, “Thank you, but there’s more.”  She then told him what had happened and why she wanted such a large amount.

Wesley stood abruptly and began pacing.  “Of all the low, despicable, unconscionable…Miss Bergen forgive me, but your uncle deserves to be…well I am too much of a gentleman to tell you what I’m thinking.”

Willow watched him pace in some surprise.  His reaction puzzled her.  “Believe me, Wesley, what you’re thinking can be no worse than what I have.  I was not expecting such a passionate reaction from you though.”

Wesley looked at her for a moment, “Willow, I consider you a dear friend as well as a valuable client and the thought of you being placed in this situation sickens me.”

“Yes, I was none too pleased myself, however, I find myself not unopposed to the idea of marriage to Lord Connors.  But I would prefer to pay him back if he will let me.”

Nodding, Wesley sat back down, “I understand your desire to repay Ravenshawk, but may I suggest making a series of smaller payments over time, instead of one large one?  The loss you would take would be much less and you will recoup more quickly.”

Willow considered that proposal.  “What is the most I could pay without harming my portfolio?”

Again he consulted the pages he had removed earlier, “I would think the most comfortable amount would be ten thousand pounds every three months.”

It would take longer that way, but it seemed reasonable to Willow.  “Very well.  I’d like to make the draft out for the first ten thousand now.”

She had just signed the draft when there was a knock on the door.  “Enter.”

The door opened to admit Faith and Angelus.  Angelus scowled at the man sitting with his fiancée, but did not say anything for the moment.

Faith blushed lightly, “Mr. Wyndam-Pryce, I did not realize you were still here.”

Wesley hastily removed his glasses.  “Miss Lawrence, it is a pleasure to see you again.”

Willow watched the two of them with a small smile on her face.  With care she stood, “Good afternoon, milord.  Angelus, this is my solicitor, Wesley Wyndam-Pryce.  Wesley, this is my fiancé, Angelus Connors, Earl of Ravenshawk.”

Wesley bowed slightly, “My lord, congratulations on your impending nuptials.  Miss Bergen is a fine woman.”

Angelus nodded still not sure he liked the idea of this man being alone with Willow.  “Wyndam-Pryce.”

Willow blushed at the praise, “Wesley really.”

He smiled at her, “I only speak the truth.  Is there anything else you need today?”

“No, this will do.  I’ll make an appointment in a month or so to go over some things.  Why don’t you and Faith go have some lunch?”

Faith darted a look at Willow who smiled beatifically at her.  Turning her brown gaze to Wesley, she asked, “Are you hungry Mr. Wyndam-Pryce?”

Wesley smiled, “Lunch would be lovely, Miss Lawrence.”  He turned to Willow and took her hand, “Congratulations again, Willow.  I wish you all the best.”

“Thank you Wesley.”  She leaned in and whispered, “Ask her out for God’s sake.  I’m getting tired of watching the two of you dance around each other.”

The taller man flushed and stuttered, “Y-yes, w-well, w-we shall see about that.  Good day ma’am, milord.”  With that, he quickly left the room with a curious Faith.

Willow faced Angelus.  “We need to talk.”

~Part: 6~

Willow faced Angelus.  “We need to talk.”

Angelus looked at her curiously before walking over to her and giving her a kiss on the cheek.  “Well, that sounds ominous.”

Willow flushed.  She hurried to reassure him, “It’s nothing bad.  At least, I don’t think it’s bad.  You may, but I hope you won’t because I really feel like this is something I have to do and I don’t want you to be angry with me.  It’s just that I can’t stand the thou-mmph.”  Her ramble came to a halt when Angelus placed two fingers against her lips.

“Breathe kitten.  I’m sure it can’t be as bad as all that.  Let’s sit down.”  The pair sat down on the loveseat.  Willow faced him, making sure not to lean against the arm of the loveseat.  Angelus took her hand, “Now, I assume whatever it is has to do with that man who was here?”

Willow cocked her head at his tone.  //Is he jealous?//  Her eyes widened slightly.  //He’s jealous of Wesley.  Oh my.//  “Yes, Wesley was helping me.”

“He’s your solicitor you said?”  Angelus tried to sound only mildly curious.

Willow nodded, “And a friend.”

“Why do you have your own solicitor?  I thought your uncle controlled your father’s estate.”

Willow stiffened slightly at the rather condescending question.  She said icily, “It is not unheard of for a woman to have her own advisor.  Honestly, do you think I would rely on my uncle?”

Angelus winced.  He hadn’t meant to sound so…like a man.  “My apologies, kitten.”

Willow sighed, “It’s alright.  As I told you last night, my lord, I have my own money.  My father was rather…unconventional.  When I was born, he set up a trust fund for me that I could access when I turned eighteen.  He set the terms so that only I could withdraw money from it.  Not even my guardian, in the event of my parents death, or my husband, should I ever marry, could gain access to this money.  It is mine alone.  Wesley’s father was my father’s solicitor and managed my account until he retired three years ago.  Then Wesley took over.  He’s increased my assets considerably since taking the reins.”

Angelus was fascinated.  “I see.  What was so urgent that you had to meet with your solicitor today?”

Willow bit her lip and took her hand back from Angelus’ grasp.  She twisted her hands together nervously for a moment before reaching for the draft note on the coffee table.  She handed the paper to Angelus who took it and looked at it with a small frown.  “Here is a draft for ten thousand pounds, my lord.  I will pay you another ten thousand every three months until I have paid back the three hundred thousand you paid for me.”

Angelus stared at the cheque in his hands trying to formulate a response that would not anger the woman next to him.  He knew why she was doing this, but he didn’t want to take her money.  In any marriage there were settlements and monies paid between both parties.  As far as he was concerned, the amount he’d paid to cover Rosen’s debts was just that, part of the settlements.  It wasn’t his fault the money immediately went to someone else.  That wasn’t his concern.  He looked at Willow.

“Willow, I understand why you’re doing this, but it is unnecessary.  No, let me finish,” he said when she opened her mouth to protest.  She grudgingly closed her mouth and he continued, “I know you feel you’ve been bought and paid for and that you want to even the scales as it were, but I consider what I paid to be part of the marriage settlements.  The fact that the money went to cover your uncle’s debts is superfluous.  If we had done things the traditional way money still would have changed hands.  So, you see kitten, you don’t have to pay me back.”

Willow sat, pondering his words.  She hadn’t looked at this situation from that perspective.  Apparently, no matter what the circumstances, she would have been bought and paid for to become a wife.  She wrinkled her nose in disgust at the thought.  She got up and started pacing muttering fiercely, “I hate being a woman.  We are property to be bought and sold and traded with no regard for our opinions or wants.  Do as your told.  You must look your best.  Be demure.  Always defer to the men, they know what’s best for you.  Ha.  How can they know what’s best for us if they never talk to us, hmm?  So-and-so has made an offer.  You will accept it dear.  It will help your position.  Well, bollocks to that…” her words grew muffled as she headed towards the other side of the room.

Angelus watched her in fascination as she ranted.  He knew it was not directed at him personally, so he didn’t take offense to what she was saying.  Actually, he conceded, she did have a point.  If she insisted, he would take the money.  Of course, once they were wed, he would make sure the allowance he would set up for her would more than make up for it.

“Fine, I won’t make you take my money, Angelus, but know that I do have it available should you need it.”  Willow finally wound down and flopped into a chair across from him.  She regretted her action as soon as her back met the back of the chair.  “Bloody hell!”  She cried as she bolted forward and bent over at the waist, cradling herself, as she muttered a string of very inventive curses, tears of pain falling down her cheeks.

Angelus jumped up and was in front of her on his knees in heartbeat.  “Willow love, are you okay?”  He listened to her cursing and couldn’t suppress a chuckle.

She brought her head up to glare at him.  “You think this is funny my lord?”  She snarled.

He sobered, but a small smile remained, “You curse worse than a sailor, kitten.  Wherever did you learn such phrases?”

Willow’s lips twitched, “Here and there.”  He raised one brow and she said, “I learned quite a bit from Giles.  Did you know he can curse in seven languages? Quite remarkable really.”

Angelus laughed again and Willow smiled, “You have a wonderful laugh.”  She blushed when she realized she had said that out loud.

“Thank you, Willow.”  He was about to return the compliment when he realized that he had never heard her laugh.  He frowned, //have to see what I can do about that.//  “Are you all right?”

Willow sat up again and winced, closing her eyes.  “I hurt.”

Angelus nodded in sympathy.  “Faith told me what happened last night.”

Her eyes snapped open and she looked into his hooded gaze.  She saw no accusation or disgust in his chocolate eyes.  “I’m so sorry I didn’t take you with me last night,” He said quietly.

“Shh.  Neither of us could have known he would attack me on the eve of my wedding.  I truly didn’t think he would.  I thought he would be too pleased to be rid of me.”  She sighed, “Are we still getting married this evening?”

Angelus brushed a hand gently over her bruised cheek, “In light of your current physical condition I would like to postpone the ceremony until you are healed, but I am also of the mind that the sooner we are wed the safer you will be.  I leave the decision up to you kitten.  If you are up to it we can be wed tonight or we can wait until you are well.”  When she didn’t say anything, Angelus said, “I saw your uncle this morning.”

“You didn’t kill him did you?”  She asked, watching him closely.

“Would you be upset if I had?”  He asked instead of answering directly.

“Yes.”  At his look of disbelief she explained, “Not that he was dead.  No, I’d be perfectly happy if he were to get run over by a runaway carriage or gutted by a footpad.  Bastard deserves to die as far as I’m concerned.  I would be upset at the burden you would carry by having his blood on your hands.  I would never ask that of you or anyone else.”

“I assure you, sweet Willow, it would be no burden.  In fact it would be my pleasure to remove him from this earth.”  He sighed dramatically, “Alas, your miserable excuse for a relative still breathes.”

Willow smirked.  “I admire your restraint, my lord,” she remarked dryly.

Angelus rubbed his knuckles at the memory of his ‘restraint’.  Willow followed the movement and noticed for the first time that his knuckles were discolored and slightly swollen.  He said, “Yes, well, he may still be alive, but he’ll not be showing himself in public any time soon, I promise you that.”

“What did you do, Angelus?”

“You don’t want to know, love.  Suffice it to say; he learned a valuable lesson.  He knows now not to mess with what is mine.”

Willow wanted to press for details, but at the look in his eye she refrained and simply nodded.  Then her eyes narrowed, “What is yours milord?  Am I a possession to you then?  Is that what your visit to my uncle was about?  Some of your property was damaged and you exacted recompense?”  She asked all this in a soft, precise voice, that made the larger man sit back on his heels.

Angelus winced.  He had spoken without thinking, but his words were true.  Willow was his, or she would be as soon as he could get the ring on her finger.  Meeting her snapping green eyes, he said calmly, “You are mine, Willow, just as I am yours.  We will belong to each other.”  When it looked like she was about to argue, he tried a different tact, “Do you not consider Faith to be yours?  If someone or something threatened her, would you not defend and protect her?”  Willow tilted her head for a moment then nodded.  There was nothing she wouldn’t do for Faith and vice versa.  The brunette was so much more to her than just a maid or employee.  “That is what I meant, kitten.  When you agreed to be my wife it became my duty and privilege to protect you.  Though I do not seem to be off to a very good start in that department,” He finished quietly as he traced the bruise on her cheek with a light finger.

Willow thought about his words and realized she felt rather safe at his declaration that he would protect and defend her.  He wasn’t trying to control her or break her.  She smiled softly, “Very well, milord.  You protect what is yours as do I.”

Angelus breathed a sigh of relief.  He smiled when he realized she had just made a promise to defend him as well.  //Well that could prove interesting.//  He said, “Your belongings, as well as Faith and Devon’s, have been moved to my home.  And you still haven’t answered me about when we’re getting married.”

Willow thought for a moment then said, “Practicality wins out over comfort.  The sooner I’m out from under my uncle’s thumb the better.  I will be ready this evening.”

Angelus studied her for a moment before kissing her lightly.  “So strong,” he said against her lips.  “I’m a lucky man.”

Willow blushed, “Thank you, my lord.”

Angelus stood, “Let me speak with Giles and Jenny for a moment.  I’ll be back shortly.”  He left the room quietly and Willow sat, thinking about what he had said.

Shaking her head she muttered to herself, “I must be out of my mind.”  Then a slow, wicked smile spread across her features.  “The next few decades will be anything but boring, I’m sure.”

True to his word, Angelus returned quickly and the two spent the afternoon getting to know one another.  They discovered they had much in common and several lively discussions ensued.  The couple had just started talking about the production of electricity when there was a knock on the door.

Willow said cheerfully, “Come in.”

Faith and Jenny entered.  Faith looked at Willow and smiled softly at the happiness she could see radiating from the redhead.  Jenny could see it as well and was quite pleased.  She said, “It’s time to get ready for tonight.”  Willow and Angelus both sighed in disappointment at having their time cut short.  Jenny turned a mock-stern look on Angelus, “You haven’t been tiring her out have you?”

“No ma’am, we’ve just been talking.”  Willow stood and Angelus followed suit.  He took her hands and bent to kiss her lightly on the lips, “I’ll see you in a bit, kitten.”

She nodded and smiled, staring after him as he left the sitting room.  When the door closed behind him, Faith said, “You look happy.”

Willow looked at her, “I am.  I think this is going to be a good thing.”

Jenny said, “I think so too.  You make a very striking couple.  Come now, let’s get you ready for your wedding.”

Willow’s eyes had a slightly glazed look as she followed the two women into the bathroom.  “Yes, my wedding.”

Jenny smiled as she handed her a glass filled with the herbal mixture she’d given her that morning.  Willow wrinkled her nose, but drank without protest.  It did help, as long as she wasn’t throwing herself into chairs.  She figured she’d be well enough in a few days.

As Faith was filling the tub, she said, “You know, I have to think that indoor plumbing is one of the greatest inventions we will ever see.”  The other two women chuckled.

Jenny said, “Yes, it certainly does beat chamber pots and lugging buckets of hot water up from the kitchens.”  She handed some soothing herbs to Faith who sprinkled them into the water.  Then Jenny helped Willow remove her gown.  The two brunettes carefully removed to bandages from Willow’s back and observed the damage.  Faith clenched her jaw at the sight of the angry welts that laced her friends’ back.  Jenny was also having trouble.

The silence was starting to get to Willow, “Well?  How bad is it?”

“I think it looks worse than it is,” Jenny answered honestly.  “After your bath we’ll put more of the salve on and re-bandage you.  You shouldn’t scar.”

Willow nodded as she carefully got into the tub.  “Good,” She sighed as the water soothed her aching flesh.

*********

Faith was just finishing Willow’s hair when her world was turned upside down.  Willow sat at the vanity with her eyes closed as she said, “You need to get ready yourself, Faith.”

She blinked and looked at Jenny who shrugged lightly.  “What do you mean?”

Willow opened her eyes and caught Faith’s in the mirror, “Whom else would I have stand up with me?  You’ve been there for me at my worst times and I want you to be there for what I what hope will be one of my best times.  Wear that lovely blue gown I got you for Christmas.”

Faith dropped her gaze.  “I don’t have it here with me.  I wouldn’t have thought you’d want me to be a part of this.”

Willow whirled on her seat and stood to take Faith’s hands.  “Faith, you know you’re like a sister to me.  The fact that you work for me is inconsequential.  Please be by my side?”

Jenny watched the two young women.  Willow had told her some of Faith’s history.  The young woman had come from an affluent merchant family that had fallen on hard times.  Faith had been working for a modiste to make a living when she and Willow had met.  Willow had felt the brunette was a kindred spirit and had offered her a position as her personal maid and companion, but Jenny knew the two were much more than employee and employer.  The older woman knew Willow socialized with her and with Wesley.  Her actions were frowned upon by the ton, but the redhead cared little for class and often looked to the person’s heart instead of their social standing.  The group of people Willow called friend were an eclectic mix of upper and middle class and though many only came together at Willow’s behest, all got along quite well.

She smiled softly and said, “Come, Faith.  You and I are about the same size and I believe I have a gown that would suit you quite nicely.”

Faith’s brown eyes widened, “I couldn’t possibly Lady Giles.”

Jenny moved to take the bewildered girl’s arm, “Of course you can, dear.  You must realize by now that you are family.”  Just before they got to the door there was a soft knock.  Jenny opened it and looked down in surprise.  “Gillian darling, what are you doing here?”

Rupert and Jenny’s five-year old daughter stood on the threshold, “I wanted to see if Auntie Wiwwow was okay.”

Willow smiled at the dark-haired, blue-eyed girl, “Come in Gillybean.”  The little girl ran for her.  Willow looked at Faith and Jenny, “Go on.”  Jenny nodded and led the still protesting woman away.

Gillian looked Willow over critically.  “Heard you got hurt,” she said softly.

Willow knelt in front of her, “I did.  My back is hurt so be very careful when you give me a hug, okay?”

Gillian nodded and carefully wrapped her little arms around Willow’s neck.  “I’m glad you’re here, Auntie,” she whispered in her ear.

Willow hugged her fiercely and blinked back tears.  “Me too, Gillybean.”  She pulled back and stood carefully, taking the child’s hand.  “Care to walk downstairs with me?”  Gillian smiled and nodded eagerly.  “We’ll have to go slow.”

“Don’t worry, Auntie.  I won’t let you fall.”

~Part: 7~

Willow was quite unprepared for the number of people present for her sudden marriage.  As she stood clutching Gillian’s hand at the sitting room door, Willow saw Rupert talking with William and Drusilla Morgan.  Letting her gaze sweep the room, Willow noticed Robert and Cordelia Chase with their parents, Charles and Renata, talking with Xander Harris and his widowed mother, Maureen.  She sought out her soon to be husband and found him standing near the French doors with the priest and an older couple she did not recognize.  Willow studied them and came to the realization that they must be Angelus’ parents.  She paled at the thought of meeting them and slowly began backing away from the door, dragging Gillian with her.

“Auntie Wiwwow, what’s wrong?”  The little girl asked.

“N-nothing Gillybean.  I-I just forgot something.  I-I’ll be back.”  Willow let go of her hand and turned to flee, but was halted by a curious voice.

“Willow?”

Taking a deep breath, Willow turned back around, “Good evening my lord.”

Angelus caught his breath at the vision she presented.  She was dressed in a long-sleeved moss green gown that hid the abrasions on her wrists.  The bruise on her cheek had been covered up with some sort of powder and the bulk of her hair had been left down, except for the loose bun at her crown.  One of his earlier questions had been answered.  He now knew just how long her hair was.  The thick fiery strands fell in loose waves to her waist and he was captivated.  She was practically glowing.  She broke his gaze and glanced down next to her.  Angelus followed her gaze and found himself smiling at an adorable little dark-haired, blue-eyed girl.

“What Gillybean?”  Willow asked when she tugged on her hand.

Gillian glanced at Angelus from under her lashes.  “Who’s he?”  She asked suspiciously.

Willow glanced at Angelus and said softly, “This is Angelus Connors, the man I’m supposed to marry tonight.”

Angelus knelt down in front of Gillian and asked Willow, “Who is this lovely lady?”

Willow smiled as he turned on the charm.  “Angelus, may I present Gillian Giles.”

Gillian held out her hand like she’d seen her mama and Auntie Willow do several times and dropped a small curtsy.  “Pleased to meet you,” she said shyly.

Angelus grinned and took her hand placing a kiss on the back of it.  “The pleasure is mine, Miss Gillian.  Have you been taking good care of our Willow?”

Gillian nodded seriously, “Oh yes.  I helped her down the stairs and made certain she didn’t fall.”

Angelus stood and looked at Willow.  “Glad to hear it.”

“Gillian dear, come here for a moment, please,” Rupert called from the sitting room.

Gillian smiled, “’Bye Auntie Wiwwow, ‘gelus.”  With that, the five-year old took off.

Willow watched her run to her father and remembered when she used to do the same, many years ago.  She was pulled from her musings by Angelus’ soft voice, “Why were you trying to run away, kitten?”

Instead of answering, Willow nodded towards the older couple she’d seen him with earlier and asked, “Are those your parents?”

Angelus followed her gaze.  “Yes,” he answered rather stiffly.

Willow looked at him, “They do not approve?”  Before he could answer she went on, “Of course they don’t approve.  Why would they?  It’s not as though we’ve been planning this for an age.  I can only imagine what they must think of me.  I don’t think I can face them or any of them for that matter.”  She started backing away again, “This is a mistake.  We’ve only really spoken to each other only yesterday and this afternoon.  I can’t do this.  I can’t ask you to do this.  I’ll pay you back and you can forget you ever met me.  I’ll…I’ll just go away.”  Willow turned and bolted down the hall, forgetting her injuries for the moment.

Angelus went after her and caught her just as she stepped off the terrace.  “Willow!  Stop.”  He grabbed her gently by the arms and pulled her back against his chest.  She gasped in pain and Angelus muttered a curse.  “I’m sorry, kitten, I didn’t mean to hurt you.”  He turned her in his arms and gently raised her chin to look into her eyes, “Let me explain.  I wasn’t expecting my parents to be here.  My father has not been away from his Yorkshire estate in five years and Mother abhors London.  They arrived an hour ago and my staff informed them of our impending nuptials.  Rupert could hardly refuse them when they showed up here.  They don’t know how long we’ve been planning this and no one else is going to enlighten them.”

Willow cocked her head to the side and studied him.  “You are not close to them then,” she said dryly.

Angelus snorted, “Hardly.  Believe me, it is much better for all concerned for us to have as little contact as possible.”  He cupped her cheek gently, “I know all of this is sudden and less than the romantic ideal, but this is right.  We are right.  Please, Willow, give us a chance.”

Willow leaned into his hand and closed her eyes.  “I’m scared.”  She opened her eyes again and held his dark chocolate gaze, “I mean I’ve never really cared what people thought of me, but this…this goes so far beyond being thought of as too bold in my speech, or fraternizing with those considered beneath my station, or wearing brighter colors than is fashionable.  The worse thing is that I’ve done nothing wrong.  I was just a pawn in a game.  You’ve gone beyond chivalry in asking me to marry you and I don’t want to disappoint you.”

Angelus smiled and bent to kiss her.  The kiss started out much as the previous gentle caresses they’d shared, but soon he couldn’t resist deepening it.  Willow responded willingly and it was with great reluctance that he eventually pulled away.  Willow opened heavy eyelids and stared at him.  Angelus bit back a groan at the sight of Willow’s flushed cheeks, slightly swollen lips, and passion glazed green eyes, and fought the urge to pull her back into his arms.  Taking a deep breath, he said, “Just be yourself, kitten.  With the exception of my parents, everyone in that room is your friend and wants you to be happy.  None of them think ill of you.  Besides, if Giles, Cordelia, or Xander thought this was a bad idea, do you really think they would let you go through with this?”

Willow smiled, “Well, there is that.”  She sighed softly, “Forgive me my lord.  I suppose every bride has a bout of pre-wedding jitters.  Truly, I was not expecting anyone other than Rupert, Jenny, Faith, and perhaps William to be here for this.  It was a shock seeing the others.”

Angelus grimaced, “I apologize for not mentioning it earlier.”  He paused with a small frown marring his handsome features, “You know, it occurs to me that we have spent quite a bit of our conversations apologizing to one another.”

Willow cocked her head, “You are correct, my lord.  We need to work on that.  I don’t mind admitting when I’m wrong, but I believe we would be quite bored in a short amount of time if these misunderstandings keep up.  Well, bored or ready to commit murder.”

Angelus laughed and took her arm leading her back into the house, “Ready to greet our guests?”

“No, but I’ll do it anyway.”

Angelus and Willow entered the sitting room and she caught sight of Faith talking with Jenny and Gillian.  Her friend looked stunning in a simply cut sapphire blue gown.  Looking at her, one would never know she was a ladies maid.  She carried herself as well as any lady of quality, which by rights, she should have been.  Cordelia and Drusilla hurried over and immediately embraced Willow.  She cried out softly and both girls drew back in alarm.

Cordelia said, “Willow, what’s wrong?  Did we hurt you?”

Willow asked, “No one told you?”

Dru answered, “No one has said anything.”  She dropped her voice, “Your uncle?”

“Yes” was Willow’s soft reply.

“That bastard will get his, mark my words,” Cordelia vowed vehemently.

Willow glanced at the man next to her.  “Oh, he’s gotten a bit already.”  Angelus smiled at her.

Dru watched their interaction with a small smile on her lips.  “If I weren’t so enamored of William I think I would be jealous, Will.  You make a very attractive couple.”

Willow blushed and murmured a quiet, “Thank you.”  Before anymore could be said, the couple was surrounded by the others.  Everyone was careful not to say anything around Angelus’ parents that would give them an idea that all was not right, but Charles, Renata and Maureen made it clear that they approved of the match and she had their support.  Robert and Xander also put their seal of approval on the union.  William brushed a kiss across her cheek and whispered, “You look lovely, Willow.  Just relax.”  She smiled at him and nodded.

Finally, Angelus led Willow over to his parents on the far side of the room.  They had not joined in the well wishing with the others.  Angelus drew Willow close to his side and said, “Father, Mother, may I present to you my soon to be wife Miss Willow Bergen.  Willow, my father Bernard, Earl of Clarington, and my mother, Clariece.”

Willow curtsied and said, “It’s a pleasure milord, milady.  Thank you for being here this evening.”

The elder Connors snorted and said gruffly, “’Bout time my son got married.  Would have been a courtesy to give us some notice though.  Wouldn’t have even known till a year or two later if we hadn’t made this trip in to Town knowing him.”  Bernard looked Willow over as if she were a horse he was considering purchasing, “Still, you look sturdy enough.  Perhaps my errant son will continue the family line after all.  I expect grandchildren within the year.”

Willow’s smile froze on her face as she felt Angelus stiffen beside her.  She said through clenched teeth, “Thank you my lord, but I believe Angelus is marrying me for qualities other than that of being a brood mare.”

Bernard looked taken aback and Clariece, who hadn’t said a word yet, looked stricken.  Willow could feel Angelus shaking with barely contained laughter.  Like a guardian angel, Jenny swept in to prevent bloodshed.  “Willow?  Angelus?  It’s time.”

Willow looked gratefully at Jenny for the save and the older woman smiled in commiseration.  Willow turned to Angelus; “I need to speak to Rupert for a moment.  I’ll see you shortly.”  Angelus nodded and headed off with Jenny and his parents towards the gardens where the ceremony was to take place.

“Rupert?”  Willow called before the older man left the room.

He turned and smiled paternally, “Yes child?”

She twisted her hands in front of her in a nervous gesture.  “Would…would you walk me down the aisle?”  She asked shyly.

Giles’ eyes grew misty, “It would be my honor and privilege my sweet girl.”  He offered her his arm, which she took.  “Your parents would be so proud, Willow.  Angelus is a fine man.  He will treat you well.”  She looked up at him and saw the determined glint in his eye.  “If he doesn’t he will answer to me.”

Willow sighed, “This is all happening so fast.”

They arrived at the entrance to the gardens and he said, “Willow, if you have any doubts you don’t have to do this.  We can find another way to keep you away from your uncle.”

Willow shook her head, “Of course I have doubts, Rupert.  Two days ago I didn’t know Angelus Connors even knew I was alive and now I’m about to bind myself to him for the rest of our lives.  But we’ve talked and…there is something there, a spark or a connection…I can’t really explain it.  But he has told me several times this is what he wants and…I think I want it too.”  Willow looked at the man who had been like a father to her since her own had passed away, silently pleading with him to tell her she was making the right decision.

Giles studied her for a moment longer before smiling and bending down to place a fatherly kiss on her forehead, “Then this is as it shall be.  You look radiant darling.  Come, let’s get you wed.”

*********

The gardens were lit with colorful lanterns and the atmosphere was lighthearted.  Gillian sprinkled flower petals down the path, trying not to run towards Father Leicester.  William and Faith followed arm in arm.  William took his place next to Angelus while Faith stood opposite.  William leaned in and whispered, “Last chance to change your mind, mate.”  He saw Faith glare at him and winked at her.

Angelus smirked, “Not on your life.  I’ll finally have Willow where I want her.”  Faith smiled in satisfaction.

Then Rupert was walking down the path with Willow on his arm.  She carried a small bouquet made of calla lilies.  The surrogate father handed off his adopted daughter to the groom and took his seat next to his wife.

Angelus smiled at Willow as Father Leicester began, “Dearly beloved we are gathered here this evening…”

*********

Willow lay in her bed at the Giles’ later that night going over the events of the evening.  The ceremony had been simple and elegant.  Jenny had done an amazing job of organizing everything on such ridiculously short notice.  A late supper was enjoyed by all, though there was some tension between the newly married couple and Angelus’ parents.  With great regret Angelus had kissed his new bride goodbye and left her with her friends to continue healing.

“Soon kitten,” he had said.  “Soon I will have you installed in my home and in my life as it should be.  Think on where you would like to go when you are well.  We’ll see the world if that is what you wish.”  He had kissed her again before turning swiftly, his greatcoat billowing around him, and disappearing into the night.

Willow sighed and looked once again at her left hand.  In addition to a simple platinum band, she also wore an impressive square cut emerald flanked by two smaller square cut diamonds set in platinum.  It was by far the most extravagant piece of jewelry she’d ever worn and she couldn’t believe that Angelus had bought it for her.  She smiled to herself as she remembered slipping his own platinum band onto his left hand.  A wave of possessiveness had washed over her at the sight of the symbol of their union so blatantly displayed.  //He’s mine// she thought //well in name anyway.  We have to wait for me to heal before we can go further and belong to each other completely.  And really, that won’t be a bad thing.  It will give us time to become comfortable with each other.  Who am I kidding?  It will give me the opportunity to get used to the idea of being intimate with a man.  I do enjoy kissing him…// Willow drifted off to sleep with a soft smile on her face with such thoughts dancing in her head.

~Part: 8~

The next day, Angelus paced his library like a caged animal.  He wanted to see Willow, but he was trapped in his townhouse with his parents, or rather, his father.  His mother was out paying obligatory social calls on her old cronies.  The door opened, admitting his father, and he bit back a groan.

“Good afternoon, Father.”

The elder Connors grunted by way of greeting.  “Tell me again why your lady wife did not accompany you home last night, your wedding night?”

Angelus ran a hand through his hair and growled in frustration.  “I told you, Father, she was injured a couple of days ago and is unable to travel even short distances.  She will arrive here by the end of the week.”

“Huh, funny way to start off a marriage if you ask me.  Why not postpone the ceremony until you can do things properly?”

Angelus didn’t answer, instead he said, “We had our reasons and we are both fine with how things are for now.  What are you and Mother doing in Town?”

Bernard poured himself a glass of claret and eyed his son, “Your mother was worried about you.  She was beginning to despair that you would ever marry.”

Angelus studied him in disbelief, “And that prompted you to come to Town?  Both of you hate London.  She couldn’t have written a letter?  As you saw last night there is no need for worry.  I am a married man now.”

“Don’t take that tone with me, boy.  Your mother wanted to see you, so here we are.  We arrived earlier than planned.  Morris will have our townhouse ready by tomorrow and we’ll be out of your hair.”  The elder Connors studied his wine, “Your wife has quite a bit of spirit.  Put me in my place right proper last night.”

Angelus smiled at the memory.  “Yes, she does have fire.”

“Best to temper it now, before she gets any wild ideas.”

Angelus looked at his father coldly, “Forgive me if I choose not to heed your advice.  I like Willow the way she is.  I didn’t marry her just to try to change her.”

Bernard shrugged, “Have it your way, but mark my words, if you don’t gain some control over her you will be sorry.”  He threw back the rest of the wine and set the glass on the desk.  “I’m going to my club.”  Without another word the older man left.

Angelus glared after him.  Rubbing his forehead, he muttered to himself, “Why me?”

*********

Willow looked up in surprise when the elder Lady Connors was shown into her sitting room.  “Lady Connors this is a surprise.  Please sit down.  Mary, will you please have some tea brought up?”  Willow directed the last to the maid still standing at the door.  The girl nodded and departed.

Clariece studied her daughter-in-law as she sat down on the settee.  “We really didn’t have an opportunity to talk last night.  I thought to remedy that.”

Willow swallowed uneasily then plastered a somewhat convincing smile on her face.  “Of course.”

Clariece smiled, “Calm yourself, child.  I mean you no harm.  I just want to get to know the woman who has stolen my son’s heart.  Tell me about yourself dear.”

Willow barely managed to control her flinch at the endearment and slowly began talking.  It became easier as she and her mother-in-law passed the time.  Willow soon discovered that Clariece Connors was a delightful woman and that she was greatly saddened by the animosity between Angelus and his father.

Clariece sighed, “They are too much alike is the problem.  Both are stubborn to a fault and are always sure they are right.”

Willow smirked, “Oh, I don’t know.  Angelus can be made to see reason.”

The older woman snorted delicately, “If you think that is true then you, my dear, are a miracle worker.  My son is one of the most determined individuals I have ever met.  If there is something he wants very little will keep him from getting it.”

“I agree, but he will listen to other people.  At least he listens to me,” Willow said quietly.

Clariece looked at her.  “That’s important to you isn’t it?  That he listens to you?”

“Very.”

Her mother-in-law looked down.  “I am hoping they can come to an understanding on this visit.  I don’t know if there will be another opportunity.”

Willow tilted her head, “What do you mean?”

Clariece studied Willow for a moment then came to a decision.  “His father is dying.  The doctors in Yorkshire can do no more for him so we’ve come here to see if there are any alternatives.  My wish is to see them make peace with one another before he goes.”

Willow sat back in surprise, but was careful not to touch the back of her chair.  “Angelus and I have not really discussed his relationship with you and his father, but I’ll see what I can do.”  //What am I getting myself into?  The man insulted me as soon as he met me last night.  But she looks so sad…//

Clariece nodded and was silent for a moment then said briskly.  “I am going to throw a ball in honor of my son’s marriage.  It will be the event of the Season.”

Willow blanched, “A-a ball you say?”

Clariece smiled, “Of course dear.”  This time Willow was unable to control her reaction and the older woman saw it.  “Willow what’s wrong?”

This time Willow studied her mother-in-law before coming to a decision.  “I think I should tell you why Angelus and I wed…”

*********

Willow was in the gardens when Angelus arrived.  He took a moment to watch her as she meandered her way through the greenery.  Dressed in a butter yellow gown with her red hair catching the afternoon sun’s rays she looked like a sunset come to life.  Shaking off his reverie Angelus made his way towards his wife.  He couldn’t help the silly grin that graced his features at that.  His wife.  //I’m turning into a sap and I haven’t even bedded the chit yet.//

“Good afternoon my lady wife.”

Willow whirled at the sound of her husband’s voice.  She had been so lost in her thoughts she had not heard him approach.  She smiled, “Good afternoon husband.”

Angelus kissed her before taking her arm and walking with her.  “What were you thinking about so seriously kitten?”

“Your mother came to visit me this morning,” She said matter-of-factly.

Angelus glanced at her before returning his attention to the flowers.  “You appear to be unharmed.  How goes my mother’s condition?”

Willow stifled a giggle and lightly slapped his arm.  “That was mean.  I happen to like your mother.  We talked for quite some time.  She told me all sorts of interesting tidbits about my new husband.  Do you still like to pour chocolate sauce on your pancakes?”

Angelus looked down at her and grinned at the impish smile that graced her lips and the mischievous sparkle in her green eyes.  “Aye I do.  Then I top them off with strawberries if they’re in season.”

“Mmm…that sounds delicious.  I’ll have to try it some time.”  Willow’s smile faded and she became serious once more.  “I told her how we came to be wed.”

Angelus stopped and looked at her incredulously, “You did what?”

Willow repeated calmly, “I told her how we came to be wed.  She was quite pleased with how you handled the situation and assures me that we have her and your father’s complete support.  In fact she is going to throw a ball in our honor in one month’s time.”  She turned away and continued her walk.  If she remembered correctly there was a small grotto in the eastern corner near the back wall.

Angelus stood gaping at the retreating back of his wife for another moment before snapping his mouth closed and catching up with her.  “Willow why would have you told her?”

“Because sooner or later it is going to get out that we wed in haste.  She was very honest with me as to why she and Bernard have come to Town and I wanted to be honest with her.”

Angelus snorted.  “Why wouldn’t she be honest about the fact that she was despairing of seeing me wed and wanted to do a little matchmaking?”

Willow frowned and looked at him.  “Who told you that?”

“My father.”

“Hmm…I wonder how Clariece will react when I tell her that?”

“What?”

“That’s not why your parents have come to Town.  I believe you should speak with your mother.  Tell me, Angelus, why do you hold her in such contempt?  I found her to be a very nice person.  She reminded me in some ways of my own mother.”

Willow smiled in satisfaction as she found the place she was looking for.  There was a small pond surrounded by several of her namesakes.  It was shaded and quiet with several benches scattered for sitting.  She turned to look at her husband questioningly and absently noted that she could not see the house from here.

Angelus studied his surroundings as he thought about how to answer.  Finally, he began to pace and said, “She is nice.  One of the sweetest women you could ever hope to meet, but she has no backbone.  Never shared an opinion or opposed anything my father said.  Just once I wanted to see her stand up to him when she disagreed with him, which I know she did on numerous occasions, but no, not my dear mother.  Whatever my father said was how it was and nothing would sway him.”

Willow’s heart went out to him. There was so much pain in his voice.  “And your father?”

He ran a hand through his hair as he continued to pace and for the first time Willow realized it was unbound.  //Oh my.//  “Ha.  Nothing was or is ever good enough for him.  My marks were not high enough, I did not ride well enough, or I did not manage my accounts well enough.  I always fell short.  Finally, I gave up trying to please him.  The Queen granted me my own title after I did a rather important favor for her and I washed my hands of my parents.  I don’t even know if I’m still in line for his holdings or if he’s passed them on to one of my cousins.  And I don’t really care.  I happy with my life.”  He looked at Willow who was sitting on one of the benches.  She looked so sweet and perfect in the dappled sunlight.  He had to have her.  Now.  “I have you now and even that is not pleasing enough for him.  He told me this morning I needed to gain control of you or I would be sorry.”

“And what did you say?”  She asked slowly as she watched him walked towards her.  There was a predatory quality to him that made her heartbeat quicken and her breathing shallower.  He was stalking her she realized.  She leaned back on her hands when he dropped to his knees in the soft grass in front of her and leaned in.

He nuzzled her neck as he whispered seductively, “I told him I liked your fire and that I didn’t marry you to try to change you.  I like you just the way you are.”  His lips caressed her ear and Willow unconsciously tilted her head to give him better access.  He took advantage of the invitation and placed soft kisses along her throat.

“I-I am pleased to hear that milord,” She replied breathlessly.  She knew there were things they needed to talk about, but for the life of her she couldn’t remember what they were.  So, Willow gave herself up to the thrill of being in her husbands’ arms.

Angelus continued kissing his way along her jaw until he met her lips.  He easily slipped his tongue inside and the couple kissed languidly.  He braced one hand on the bench next to her hips and brought the other one up to slide the sleeve of her gown off her shoulder.  Breaking the kiss, he trailed his lips along the newly exposed flesh working his way down to her breast.  Willow moaned softly at the sensations and tangled a hand in his hair to hold him to her.  Angelus slid the bodice of her gown down further and exposed her tempting flesh.  Gently he caressed her with his lips before taking her nipple into his mouth.  Willow cried out at the unfamiliar feeling and tightened her grip on his scalp.  Angelus growled in appreciation and wrapped his arm around her hips as he moved his other hand to lower her other sleeve.  With that mission accomplished he kissed his way across her chest to pay homage to her other breast.  As he did he slowly brought his free hand under her skirts and caressed her leg.

Willow stiffened at the feel of his hand on her leg, the memory of what her uncle had tried to do still rather fresh in her mind.  Angelus felt her reaction and moved to kiss her again.  His hand continued its path up the inside of her leg as he said against her lips, “I won’t hurt you kitten.  You’re safe with me.  I want to touch you, taste you, see you, learn your body.  You’re beautiful here in the sunlit gardens, like a faerie princess in her bower.”

Willow relaxed under his hypnotic words and gentle ministrations.  Angelus moved the hand that was wrapped around her hips to loosen the tapes of her gown and petticoats.  Willow didn’t even notice when it fell away from her upper body, didn’t notice as he worked her arms free of its sleeves.  She released her grip on his hair and braced both hands behind her again, closing her eyes and lifting her face to the sun.  She was concentrating on the feel of his fingers on her most sensitive flesh.  She sighed as he stroked her gently, letting her get used to the feel of him there.

Angelus groaned low in his chest at the wanton sight his Willow presented.  He had felt the bandages that still covered her back and reminded himself to be as gentle as possible.  He removed his hand smiling slightly at her murmur of protest and quickly removed his coat to lay it on the soft ground next to them.  He kissed her passionately as he lifted her hips to slide her gown and petticoats off.  With her still in his arms he turned and laid her gently on his open coat.  Willow’s back protested coming into contact with anything and she whimpered as she opened her eyes.  She caught her breath at the sight before her forgetting her discomfort.  Angelus, naked from the waist up, was on his knees between her bent legs.  Her passion filled eyes traveled over the broad expanse of his muscular torso and down to see the obvious evidence of his arousal.  Blushing, her eyes flew up to his face.

Angelus couldn’t help the smirk at her reaction.  The sight of Willow lying naked except for her stockings and slippers on his coat brought him to almost painful hardness.  Her body was lithe and strong from years of riding.  Her breasts were not large, but had a satisfying fullness and their taste was as sweet as a summer peach.  Her flat stomach flared nicely into delicately rounded hips and her legs were long and sleek.  The thatch of cinnamon curls that hid her secrets beckoned to him.  He groaned at the thought of those long legs wrapped round his waist as he thrust into her.  //Not yet, but soon.//  “You see what you do to me kitten?”

Willow nodded and sat up, kneeling to face him.  “May I touch you?”  She asked as her hand hovered over his chest.

Angelus inhaled sharply at her innocent question.  He wasn’t sure he would be able to last if she put her hands on him, but he wanted to find out.  “God yes,” he breathed.

Willow smiled in delight as she laid her hand on him.  She was unconcerned with her nudity.  Seeing his reaction to her had given her a blast of confidence.  Tentatively at first she touched him, learning the feel of his body.  By the sounds he was making she was doing something right and grew bolder.  Willow leaned forward and kissed his throat.  He moaned at the contact causing her to smile against his skin.  Her mouth moved over him lightly nipping and suckling like he had done to her.  She trailed kisses down his chest until she came to one tiny male nipple.  She eyed it curiously before her tongue darted out and she licked it.  Angelus shuddered when her lips clamped around him.

//Christ almighty she’s going to kill me, but what a way to go.//  Willow’s innocent touches were driving Angelus insane.  He had not expected her to be quite so uninhibited, but was not going to complain in the least.  He lost his composure completely when her hand brushed over his erection.  He grabbed her hand and pulled her up to him, crushing her lips in a ferocious kiss.  His tongue plundered her mouth and hers met him eagerly.  When they broke apart to breathe, his voice was harsh, “That’s enough, little one.  Anymore and this will all be over too soon.”  He kissed her again, gently this time.  Murmuring against her lips, he said, “I want to taste you, kitten.  Will you let me?”

Willow pulled back and looked at him in confusion, “I don’t understand what you want milord.”

Angelus ran a hand from her throat down the center of her body to the juncture of her thighs.  Dipping one calloused finger between her folds, he said softly, “Here love.  I want to taste your essence.”

Willow moaned at the feel of him between her legs, but blushed at his words.  “That hardly seems proper,” she managed.

Angelus smiled at her innocence.  He kissed her again continuing to move his finger.  He slipped shallowly into her passage and groaned at the tightness he found.  It was going to hurt once he was finally inside her, but he vowed to make it as pleasurable as possible for her before then.  “Nothing we do with each other will ever be improper, Willow.  Pleasure can be had in many ways and I want to teach them all to you.  Will you let me, little one?  You feel so good.  Let me please you, let me taste you.”

Willow was almost beyond speech.  The feel of him entering her combined with his words had robbed her of coherency.  She had never felt this way before.  It was like a spring was coiling tightly within her and she had no idea how to set it free.  When she sighed, “yes,” her heart skipped a beat at the look on her husband’s face.  His chocolate eyes were almost black with arousal, his nostrils flared, and his lips curved into the most devilish smile she had ever seen.

Angelus moved them so he could lie down on his open coat.  He arranged Willow so that she straddled him with her knees on either side of his shoulders.  She looked at him with some trepidation, but relaxed when she saw the tenderness in his eyes.  He said softly, “Hold on to the bench, love.”  He pressed a kiss to her inner thigh as she complied.  She moaned and he said, “Try not to be too loud, kitten.  Wouldn’t want an audience.”  She just nodded her head as she felt him position her body as he wanted, the thought that they could be discovered sliding away before it could really take hold and ruin the experience.  Willow was soon lost completely in the sensations Angelus created.  He licked, nibbled, and sucked her to the brink several times without letting her go over.  The spring inside her continued to coil tighter and tighter until she was babbling incoherently, pleading for something she couldn’t name.  He finally took pity on her.  Taking her clit firmly between his lips he entered her with one long finger.  Willow’s back arched as she came undone with a breathless, “Angelus!”

Angelus removed his other hand from her hips and freed himself from his trousers as he continued to lap at her juices.  Before she could completely come down from her high he moved her down his body and sat up.  Unobtrusively wiping his mouth off he kissed her fiercely as he impaled her on his shaft, growling at the feeling of her tight heat enveloping him.  Willow cried out when he breached her maidenhead, but the pain was brief.  She vaguely registered tasting herself on his lips, but was too far-gone to really analyze it.  Angelus held her still with one arm wrapped round her hips, the other tangled in her hair.  He broke away to rain kisses over her face and neck, murmuring against her skin, “So good Willow.  You feel so good sweetheart.”  He raised his head to look into her eyes.  “Are you all right love?”  She just nodded still unable to speak properly.

Willow moved slightly trying to adjust to having him inside her.  Both groaned at the sensations her small action provoked.  Angelus cautiously moved her again.  When she didn’t seem to be in any discomfort he began a slow rhythm, moving her up and down on him.  Keeping eye contact, Willow pushed on his chest lightly and Angelus lay back down.  Willow gasped as the new position pushed him deeper into her.  She kissed him wantonly before sitting up fully.  She sat still for a moment, savoring the feel of him within her then, following her instincts, slowly began to ride him.

Angelus was certain he’d died and gone to heaven.  He’d had other lovers, but nothing compared to the innocent passion of his wife.  She was a sensualist by nature and he was pleased beyond measure that he was the one to bring out this side of her.  Endless nights and days of carnal pleasure stretched before him in his mind’s eye and he stilled her movements to stave off his climax, closing his eyes to try to regain a modicum of control.  When he opened his eyes he met Willow’s apprehensive green gaze.  “Did I do something wrong?”  She asked softly.

“God no, kitten.  It’s too right.  I don’t want it to end yet.”  She smiled slowly as she discovered the power she held over him.  Angelus caught his breath and knew he was done for.  As she started moving again he gripped her hips and thrust up to meet her.  Willow gasped at the new sensation and quickened her pace.  Her nails dug into his chest and he growled at the slight pain.  Knowing he couldn’t hold off any longer, he worked one hand between their undulating bodies and rapidly stroked the tiny bundle of nerves at the top of her folds.  Willow cried out as her internal walls clamped around him and she exploded for the second time.  Angelus followed her with a strangled shout as he thrust into her twice more, grabbing her hips to hold her tightly against him as emptied himself within her womb.

Willow collapsed against him gasping for breath.  Angelus held her close.  “Mine,” he murmured, kissing her softly on the cheek.

“Yours,” she agreed sleepily.

Both fell asleep, content in each other’s arms under the protection of the willow trees.

~Part: 9~

Angelus woke first.  He lay on the soft ground, savoring the feel of his wife lying on top of him, surrounding him.  The lengthening shadows around them clued him in that they had been asleep for some time.  Regrettably he tried to wake Willow.

“Willow, love, it’s time to wake up,” He murmured softly as he carefully moved her off of him.

“Mmmph,” The redhead mumbled, trying to snuggle back into the warmth of his embrace.

Angelus smiled tenderly and laid her on her side as he redressed.  Still she did not wake.  Gathering her clothes, he wrapped her in his coat and picked her up, being careful not to place too much pressure on her back.  Making sure she was sufficiently covered he walked back to the house.  Praying he would not run into anyone, he took a side staircase and carried her into her room.

As he laid her on the bed she finally stirred.  Blinking several times Willow focused her sleepy green gaze on Angelus.  “You really are here,” she said softly.

He kissed her and smiled as he lay down next to her, “Yes love.  How do you feel?”

Willow stretched cautiously and winced slightly as her muscles protested from being in an unfamiliar position for so long.  “Mmm…a little sore.”

“I’ll ring Faith to run you a bath.”

“What time is it?”

Angelus looked to the mantle clock.  He was surprised to see that it was three thirty in the afternoon.  They’d been asleep for about two hours.  “Three thirty.”

“Faith isn’t here.  She and Wesley were going to the museum this afternoon.”

Angelus raised a brow.  “A solicitor and a maid?  That’s an odd combination.”

Willow looked at him.  “Faith is much more than a maid and Wesley cares for her very much.  She belongs in his strata.  They are a good match, or they would be, if they weren’t so stubborn.”  She sat up and for the first time noticed her state of undress.  “Oh!”  She gasped as Angelus’ coat fell away.

Angelus smiled lazily, “Don’t cover up on my account kitten.”  Willow studied him for a moment then dropped her arms and looked at him challengingly.

“I can run my own bath, but I need help with the bandages.”

Angelus sat up.  “Lay on your stomach love.  I’ll tend to you.”  After removing her slippers and stockings Willow did as she was bid.  Angelus carefully removed the bandages and his countenance grew blacker and blacker as he took in the damage to her back.  Jenny was right, she wouldn’t scar, but that knowledge did nothing to improve his mood.  He traced her wounds with a finger hovering just above the skin.

Willow felt the sensation of his touch even though he wasn’t actually making contact.  Turning her head she looked at him over her shoulder.  “I’ll heal,” she said softly.

“You shouldn’t have to,” he countered.  Rising from the bed he disposed of the used bandages and said, “Stay there.  I’ll get your bath ready.”

Willow lay back down and concentrated on the memory of what had transpired in the garden, letting the tension in her body drain away.  She was lightly dozing when Angelus returned and he gently guided her into the bathroom.  Willow caught her breath and turned a lovely shade of pink as Angelus stripped efficiently.  She squeezed her eyes shut as he took off his pants and got into the large tub with her.

“Angelus!  What are you doing?”

He smiled as he took a cloth and carefully began washing her back.  “Tending to you like I said I would.”

“But, but you…you’re in the tub…with me!”  She squeaked, uncertain as to why it bothered her so much.

Angelus chuckled.  “Yes, love, I am.”  He paused in his task and pulled her gently back against him.  Willow went willingly, ignoring the twinges in her back.  Nibbling at her ear, he said softly, “Remember sweet Willow nothing between us is improper.”  Willow moaned softly as he resumed bathing her.  He kept his actions slow, building his wife’s arousal.  He gently moved the cloth between her legs and smiled in satisfaction when she gasped and moved unconsciously against his hand.

Unaccustomed to so much stimulation in such a short amount of time, regardless of how good it felt, Willow whimpered and twisted away.  “Too much.  Hurts.”

Angelus sighed in consternation and removed his hand.  “I’m sorry kitten.  I didn’t realize and I should have.”

As she moved to face him, Willow felt the evidence of his arousal.  Feeling bold she kissed him and said against his lips, “It’s alright.  I’m just not used to all of this.”  As she spoke she let her hand travel down his chest and uncertainly wrapped her small hand around his shaft.  She watched for his reaction intently.

Angelus hissed in pleasure as she wrapped her hand around him.  His eyes closed and his head tilted back against the rim of the tub.  She lightly stroked him, learning the feel and texture of him.  “Mmm…harder love.”  Willow looked at him curiously and paused.  Reluctantly, Angelus opened his eyes and looked at her.  He wrapped his hand around hers, “Like this.”  He moved her hand with his showing her how he liked to be touched.  He practically purred as she picked up the rhythm and let go of her hand.

Willow smiled, a slow sensual smile full of ancient knowledge, as she pleasured her husband.  She squeezed him a bit harder then squeaked in surprise as he caught her and kissed her fiercely.  As their tongues dueled she kept up her rhythm.  Then she brought her other hand to the soft skin below his shaft and gently ran her fingers over him.  Going on the theory that what worked for one would work for the other, she squeezed him rhythmically as her other hand continued on his shaft.

Angelus pulled away from her mouth as his hips bucked up, sending water over the edges of the tub.  Head thrown back he cried out, “Christ Willow!” as her ministrations pushed him over the edge.  He clutched the sides of the tub tightly as his release washed over him.  When he opened his eyes again, the sight that greeted him almost sent him back into a state of instant hardness.  His innocent young wife knelt in front of him, tentatively licking her fingers of his seed.  Her head was cocked to the side as if trying to determine if she like the taste or not.  She looked at him with passion darkened green eyes, “It’s different, kind of salty and sweet.  Is that what I taste like?”

Angelus groaned and dropped his head back down on the rim of the tub, laughing weakly.  Her innocent curiosity was going to be the death of him.  He was proud of his recuperative powers, but this was ridiculous.  There was no way he could do this again so soon.  He decided to ignore his overactive body.  At Willow’s questioning, “Angelus?” he pulled her into his arms, unconsciously being mindful of her back.  Kissing her slowly he carefully moved one hand between her legs.

Though she was sore, her recent activities had had and effect on her as well.  He lazily brought her to release as they kissed.  When she cried out in completion he brought his fingers up to her mouth.  “Taste for yourself, love,” he murmured huskily.

Keeping her eyes on his Willow’s tongue darted out to lap at his fingers.  She tasted different from him, spicier, a little less salty, and not all together unpleasant.  She smiled wickedly as she wrapped her lips around one finger and sucked it into her mouth, licking it clean.

Angelus clenched his jaw and hastily removed his finger from her mouth.  She looked at him in dismay.  “Did I do something wrong?”

He took several deep breaths before he felt able to answer her.  “No love.  You’ve done everything right, but what you just did is a lesson for another time.  For my own sanity we have to stop.”  Seeing that she didn’t understand he took her hand and laid it against his erection.  She gasped and looked at him in wonder.  “You did that to me sweet Willow and neither of us is in any condition to do anything about it.  So it’s best if we stop.”  She nodded her agreement.  Angelus let out the cooling water before refilling the tub.  “Come, kitten, let’s finish getting cleaned up.”

The couple finished their bath and Angelus applied the salve and fresh bandages to Willow’s back.  After he had helped her dress they sat in her sitting room with Willow curled against his side.  Angelus was absently playing with a lock of her hair, which she had left down after he’d washed it for her.  She was quickly discovering that he was fascinated with her hair.  “Come home with me tonight,” He said into the quiet.

Willow took stock of her body before answering.  She didn’t think she’d be able to ride her horse, considering how sore she was in certain areas, but she thought she might be able to handle a carriage or phaeton.  The herbal mixture Jenny had her drinking was helping with the pain and considering all she’d done that day Willow felt pretty good.  She snuggled deeper into her husband’s embrace.  “Yes.”

Angelus smiled.  Before more could be said there was a knock on the door then Faith entered looking a little sad.  She started a bit at seeing Willow wrapped in Angelus’ arms then smiled at the couple.  If she noticed Willow’s freshly bathed appearance or Angelus’ rather wrinkled clothing she gave no indication.  “Good afternoon Will, milord.”

Willow smiled at her companion.  “Did you enjoy yourself at the museum?”

Faith darted a glance at Angelus before answering, “Very much.”

“It’s all right, Faith, he knows you were out with Wesley.”

Faith eyed them both for a moment before shrugging and sitting across from them.  She smiled at Willow eagerly.  “We had a wonderful time.  He’s such a gentleman, Will, and so very smart.  We talked the whole time.”  Her smile faded as she blushed and looked down, saying softly, “He asked if I would join him at the theater.”

When Faith didn’t say anything else, Willow prompted, “And?”

Looking back up, Faith replied, “And I told him no.”

Willow shot up straight out of Angelus’ embrace and stared at her friend incredulously.  Angelus reluctantly let her go and watched the scene unfolding with interest.  “You did what?!  Goddess Faith do you have any idea how long it has taken me to convince him to court you, that you return his affections?  Why did you turn him down?”

Faith dropped her eyes again and mumbled a reply.  Willow scowled, “What?”

The brunette sighed.  “I don’t want to embarrass him.”

Willow sat back as her ire deflated.  She winced at the twinge in her back as she connected with the back of the settee, but relaxed as Angelus drew her to his side again.  “What makes you think you’d embarrass him, Faith?”

Still not looking at either of them, she said, “I lost my entrance into his world before I left the schoolroom thanks to my father’s misfortune.  I have no place there.  The museum was one thing.  Him being seen with me in such an intimate setting as the theater would cause a scandal.  I have no place anywhere, except by your side.”  She looked up quickly and met Willow’s sad gaze.  “I mean no disrespect, Will, I love being wherever you are and I’m happy with what I do, but being a maid makes for a very improper wife to a solicitor.  I’m good enough to be his distraction but nothing more.”

“Bullshit,” Angelus said succinctly.

The women looked at Angelus in amazement.  “Beg pardon my lord?”  Faith asked somewhat timidly.  She wasn’t easily intimidated, but the expression on the dark man’s face was quite fierce.

“You are no one’s distraction, Faith.  Circumstances may have dictated your current position in life, but have nothing to do with who you are as a person.  You are intelligent, well spoken, well mannered, and beautiful and would be a credit to any man.  You carry yourself as regally as any woman of the ton and I’m sure Wyndam-Pryce would agree.  Do not deny yourself the possibility of happiness, because of society’s rules,” Angelus said quietly, but firmly.  He looked at Willow as he continued, “If I’ve learned anything in the last few days, it’s to look beyond the polish and veneers to see what lies beneath.”  Returning his dark eyes to the gaping brunette, he said, “Give Wyndam-Pryce a chance, Faith.”

Willow stared at her husband.  Everything he’d just said was what she was thinking and she was quite stunned at his vehemence.  He’d only met Faith three days before and not spent any great length of time with her, surely that was not near long enough to form such a strong opinion.

“Angelus?”

He looked at his wife and saw the questions in her eyes.  He smiled lopsidedly, “Faith made quite an impression on me when I met her, kitten.  I was not in a good mood when I arrived here and saw you were hurt.  She put me in my place and made me see reason.”  He looked at the young woman he was talking about.  She sat across from them looking mystified.  “I know we’ve not known one another long, but I think I’m right in my estimation of you.”

Willow smiled, “Oh you are, milord.  And Faith?”  The brunette looked at her and she continued, “Angelus is right.  You should give Wesley a chance.”

Faith sat, silently absorbing all that had just transpired.  She was quite fond of the solicitor and had been heartbroken to refuse him.  He had looked so sad when she had declined, but had quickly masked his reaction with one of cool indifference.  She wanted to make things right between them, but “I’m not sure if he will give me another one.”

Willow scoffed, “Piffle, of course he will.  The two of you are made for each other.  You’ll see, all will work out as it should.”  Faith eyed her unconvinced, so Willow decided to change the subject.  “We need to gather our things.  We’re going home.”

Angelus smiled at Willow’s words and Faith jumped at the opportunity to have something to do.  “We’ll be ready within the hour,” she said as started to rush around.

Before Willow could get up to find Jenny there was another knock and Faith opened the door to admit her friend and Gillian.  Gillian ran for the settee and bounded up to settle in Willow’s lap.  The couple smiled down at the little girl as she leaned up to kiss Willow on the cheek and smiled shyly at Angelus.

Jenny smiled at her daughter.  “Angelus, I didn’t realize you were still here.  Will you be joining us for dinner this evening?”

He glanced at Willow who smiled at him and said to her friend, “Actually, Jenny, we’ll be dining at our home this evening.  I think I’m well enough to move where I belong.  I was just getting ready to find you and let you know.”

“Are you sure, Willow?  You know you’re welcome to stay here as long as you need.”

“I know, but I think I would like to begin my life as a married woman.”

Jenny studied the couple and her eyes widened in comprehension as she took in Angelus’ rather wrinkled trousers and shirt and Willow’s still damp hair.  She smiled and said, “Of course, sweetheart.  I’ll bottle up the herbal pain remedy for you.  When are you leaving?”

Willow looked at Angelus.  “I don’t think I’m quite ready to ride Celtic Myst.”

“Don’t fret, love.  I brought my phaeton.  Your few bags and Faith’s should fit easily.”

Gillian harrumphed, “I don’t want you to go, Auntie Wiwwow.  I like having you here.  You won’t get hurt here.”

Willow looked at the little girl in her arms.  “I know you do, Gillybean.  I like being here too, but I can’t stay forever.  I have a new home now and it’s time for me to see it.”  She turned back to Jenny, “We’ll be ready within the hour.”  The redhead moved a sulking Gillian off of her lap and stood to hug the older brunette.

Angelus looked at Gillian.  She had her arms crossed and her lower lip jutted out mutinously.  He said softly, “Don’t fret, Miss Gillian.  You can come visit us whenever you like, or rather, when your parents will let you.”

The young girl turned bright blue eyes on him.  “You’ll watch out for her and make sure she doesn’t get hurt again?”  She asked in a small voice.

He nodded solemnly, “You have my word, Miss Gillian.”

She studied him intently for a few moments before smiling and leaning up to kiss his cheek.  “You can call me Gillybean like Auntie Wiwwow.”  Then she scowled at him, “As long as you take care of her.”

Angelus smiled back, “I promise, Gillybean.”

The three older women in the room had been watching the exchange.  Willow was touched by the care in which he handled the child’s fragile feelings and she was amazed that Gillian had told him to call her Gillybean.  Not even her parents were allowed that honor.  It was Willow’s special name for her and she guarded it fiercely.  Faith was pleased and her opinion of her employer’s husband was cemented.  He was a good man.  Jenny was pleased as well and knew if he and Willow were blessed with children that he would not neglect them, but would be an active participant in their lives unlike so many others of the ton.

Jenny said to Willow quietly, “You’ve done well, Willow.  This is a good match and I wish you both much happiness.”

Willow sniffed and wiped the corner of her eye, “Thank you, Jenny.  For everything.”

********

After the phaeton was loaded and all of the goodbyes were said, the trio was on their way to Angelus’ townhouse.  He grimaced as a thought struck him.

“What’s wrong milord?”  Willow asked curiously.

“My parents are still at my home.  We will be dining with them again.”

“I’ll eat in the kitchens so as not to disrupt,” Faith said quickly.

Willow frowned, “You will do no such thing.  You have just as much right to sit at our table as I do.  Isn’t that right, Angelus?”  She directed the last to her husband.  Before he could answer, she said in an aside to Faith, “Besides, I’m not going to suffer my father-in-law by myself.”

Angelus smirked, “Quite love.  Supper should be interesting at the very least.”

~Part: 10~

The trio arrived at Angelus’ townhouse without incident.  The girls met the staff and familiarized themselves with the layout of the home.  Willow and Faith settled themselves into their rooms with no problems.  Faith had been quite flustered when Angelus had ordered all of her things moved to a suite of rooms on the second floor, but after a couple of abortive protests, she accepted gracefully and gratefully.

Clariece had been quite pleased to see them when she returned from her social calls, though she cautiously greeted her son.  He returned her greeting politely, if not aloofly.  Willow sighed, watching the exchange.  There were so many things that needed to be said between them.  Bernard returned shortly after his wife.  He seemed momentarily surprised to see Willow, but covered his reaction quickly.

Willow was beginning to despair that she would ever have another peaceful supper.  The meal was a rather strained affair from the outset.  Bernard and Clariece were initially shocked that Faith was joining them, but Clariece quickly adjusted and chatted amiably with the younger brunette.  Bernard, on the other hand, mumbled several comments, just loud enough to be heard, about servants lifting themselves above their stations and thinking themselves equal to their betters.

Faith dropped her eyes and fiddled with the napkin in her lap.  Clariece looked dismayed and more than a little annoyed at her husband.  Willow’s eyes flashed with anger and her skin was flushed as she opened her mouth to speak.

Angelus beat her to the punch.  With a clenched jaw he ground out, “Faith is my wife’s best friend and companion, Father.  She is no mere servant and I will thank you to treat her with the same respect you would for any of your peer’s ladies.  She is welcome in my home and at my table and that is all you need be concerned with.”

Faith and Willow looked at him gratefully and his countenance softened.  He bestowed a small smile on them and turned back to his plate.  Clariece studied her son for a moment before smiling to herself and resuming her meal as well.  Bernard just glared and Angelus ignored him.

A short time later, the elder Connors turned his attention to Willow.  “So, is it true that my son accepted you as payment for a gambling debt?”

Clariece gasped, “Bernard!”

With a look Angelus sent all the servants out of the dining room.  He looked ready to commit serious violence.  Willow caught his eye and shook her head slightly.  He took a deep breath and settled back into his chair for the moment.

Bernard merely raised a shaggy gray brow.  “What?  I only want to verify if the rumors are true.”

Willow met his gimlet gaze with one of her own.  “Aye milord, ‘tis true.  Your son saved me from a most unpleasant fate.  How is it you came to learn about it?”  She asked curiously.  Willow was well aware that Clariece had not had the opportunity to tell her husband the news.

Bernard replied, “It is amazing what you can learn in the clubs.  I overheard Lords Glaston and Drake discussing it earlier.  Tell me, Willow,” he said her name as though it left a bad taste in his mouth, “How was it you convinced Angelus to marry you?  It seems it would have been more to my son’s benefit to tuck you away as his playmate, than to take you as wife.  After all, you have no inheritance to speak of anymore.”

Willow choked on the sip of wine she’d just taken.  Faith dropped her fork and glared at the man.  Clariece was staring at Angelus, who had slammed his clenched fist on the table and was taking deep breaths in an effort to control his temper.  In a dangerously even tone, Angelus said, “I suggest you stop speaking immediately, Father.  You are a guest in my home, and while I am well used to your slurs against me, I will tolerate no such thing against my wife.  Willow is an heiress in her own right, but that is not why I married her.  Our reasons, I’m sure, are quite beyond your comprehension.  Now you can either, be quiet and finish your supper, or you can remove yourself from this table and let the rest of us dine in peace.”

Bernard turned red in the face at the set down.  “H-how dare you speak to me that way, Angelus?  I am your father, boy.  You will treat me with respect.”

“You are my father in name only.  Maxwell Cavanaugh has been more a true father to me than you ever thought of being.  As to treating you with respect, that is something to be earned, not given out freely and believe me, sir, you have not earned my respect for a long time now.  And I dare speak to you this way because as I said you are in my home and by God, I will not allow you to speak ill of my wife or her friends.  You will keep a civil tongue in your head when speaking to or about my wife.  Do I make myself clear?”

Bernard stood abruptly.  “I do not have to put up with this.  Come Clariece, Maurice will just have to deal with us arriving before the house is ready.”  Clariece didn’t move and he turned his baleful glare onto her.  “Woman, get up, now.”

“Oh, do be quiet, Bernard.  I am quite ashamed to call you husband, right now.  Your behavior this evening has been beyond the pale.  I always knew you were an unfeeling bastard, but I really never thought you could, or would be this cruel.  Willow, your daughter-in-law, is one of the sweetest, brightest, and most charming young women I have ever had the pleasure of meeting.  I am proud to claim her as family.  Angelus has made a fine choice, but you are just too bitter to see it.”  The older woman stood and faced off with her husband.  “I had hoped you and your son would be able to come to an understanding on this visit before it was too late.  Now, I just don’t care.  I don’t know if this is your illness talking or if you really are this cold, but I will tolerate it no longer.  Go back to Yorkshire and die in that musty old study you are so very fond of.  I really don’t care anymore.”

The others in the room stared at the older woman, but for different reasons.  Willow, hurt though she was at her father-in-law’s cruel words, was very proud of her mother-in-law for standing up for herself.  Faith was impressed as well mostly for the fact she’d never seen a woman of quality, except for Willow, speak her mind so fiercely.  Angelus was stunned into silence.  It was the first time in all his thirty-two years he could remember his meek, mild, agreeable mother going against his father.  //Maybe Willow was right.  I think Mother and I should talk.//

Bernard’s face was almost purple in his rage at his wife’s defiance.  He raised his hand to strike her, but was brought up short by a very cold voice.  “Strike her and I guarantee, you will regret it mightily.”  The old man turned to see Willow standing next to him with the carving knife in her hand.  She said very calmly, “I have been subjected to physical abuse at the hands of my uncle for the last four years.  He beat me bloody the night before Angelus and I wed, which is why I did not accompany my husband home last night.  I will not allow that type of behavior in my new home.  Your wife spoke her mind.  There is no harm in that, except to your precious male ego should she disagree with you.  Perhaps if you would actually listen, you might learn something.  Yes, Angelus accepted me as payment for my uncle’s gambling debts.  My uncle had apparently planned to give me to Ethan Rayne to, as you so eloquently put it, set me up as his playmate.  Angelus intervened and, with the support of our friends, offered for my hand of his own free will.  Your son wanted to marry me.  It took quite a bit of convincing on his part for me to agree.  I would have us be, if not friends, at least be civil to one another.  But I have no problem with cutting you out completely, as Angelus is wont to do, if you cannot rein in your hostility.  What say you, sir?”

Bernard dropped his hand and stared at the petite redhead threatening him with a carving knife.  The anger drained from his face and a confused expression took its place.  His breathing became ragged and his skin took on a decidedly grayish cast.  Willow watched him warily and then dropped the knife with a clatter, as the older man swayed on his feet and she leapt forward to catch him before he fell flat on his face.  Angelus was there to take his father’s weight and eased him into a chair.  Willow looked at Clariece, “Has this happened before?”

Clariece stood where she was, still shaking from the experience of speaking against her husband and almost being struck for her effort.  She felt a comforting arm go around her shoulder and looked at Faith, who quietly repeated Willow’s question, “Has this happened to Lord Connors before?”

Clariece shook herself free of her paralysis and looked at her husband.  Her mouth trembled at seeing her once proud spouse sitting in a chair, looking for all the world like a lost child.  “Yes, but this is by far the worst it’s ever been.  The doctors in Yorkshire say there’s something wrong with his heart.  But that doesn’t explain the fits of rage that have become ever more frequent over the past year.”  She looked at Willow who was currently wrapped in Angelus’ arms.  “Willow, please believe me when I say that I did not know he would react this way to the news of how the two of you came to be wed.  I thought he liked you.”

“I do like her, Clariece.  What did I do?”  Bernard’s voice was weak, but they all heard him.

Willow looked at him.  Instead of answering, she said gently, “Perhaps it would be best if you retired for the evening, milord.  You look a little peaked.”

Bernard looked at her and smiled.  Willow caught her breath at the expression.  She had seen that smile on her husband’s face several times in the past few days.  “I think you are right, sweet child.  I am feeling quite worn out.”  He struggled out of his chair and took her hand, “Goodnight, Willow.”  He looked at Faith, “Goodnight, Miss Lawrence.”  He turned his attention to Angelus, “Goodnight, son.  I’m terribly sorry if I disrupted the meal.”  Angelus could only nod.  Finally, Bernard turned to his wife, “Goodnight, my dear. I’ll leave you to catch up with Angelus.”  In a very unexpected gesture, he kissed Clariece on the cheek, then made his way carefully from the room.

Silence reigned for several minutes as everyone tried to absorb the abrupt change that had just occurred.  Angelus finally broke it when he asked, “What the hell just happened?”

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