Author: Dayna

E-mail: honzr@midstate.tds.net

Rating: NC-17

Distribution: TPWFLD; Angel of Mine; otherwise please ask.

Disclaimer: Characters don't belong to me. They belong to Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy. No copyright infringement intended.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Willow was sitting in the library, trying to hack into some files. Giles was leaning against the stair railing, trying to concentrate on his book. Buffy was sitting next to Willow, watching as her friend breezed through files. Xander came bounding into the room.

"Try to control yourself, girls. I have arrived!" Xander said as he threw himself into a chair.

Giles rolled his eyes, while the girls laughed. "Dream on, Xander." Buffy said.

"I'm hurt, Buffy. Really I am. Hey, Will, I'm supposed to give you a message." Xander said.

Willow turned to her friend, and waited for him to continue. She watched as Xander started flipping through a magazine.

"Hello? Are you planning on giving me the message today?" Willow asked.

Xander looked up, "Huh?"

Buffy threw a book at him, which he caught. "Thanks, that magazine wasn't very interesting."

"Xander, would you tell me already." Willow said.

"Oh, yeah, Snyder wants to see you in his office. As in right away."

"And when did he give you this message?" Buffy asked.

"Huh? Oh, about 20 minutes ago."

Willow jumped out of her chair. "Geez, thanks alot Xander. Now he'll be in an even worse mood then usual."

As Willow walked past her friend, she took the book from his hand. Lifting it, she hit it across his head, then handed it back to him. Then she hurried to the Principal's office.

"That was uncalled for. What I did I do?"

Buffy and Giles exchanged glances, then went back to what they were doing. They accepted that Xander could be absolutely clueless sometimes.

Willow took a deep breath, then knocked on Principal Snyder's office door. She couldn't think of anything she'd done wrong........at least that he'd know about. {He's probably going to make me tutor some student.}

"Come in."

Willow opened the door, and saw the principal seated at his desk. He looked up and motioned for her to sit down. Then he made an exaggerated effort to look at his watch. Willow had to force herself not to roll her eyes.

"Not very prompt, Ms Rosenberg."

"Sorry, sir. I came as soon as I got your message." Willow said. {Memo to self: Hurt Xander!}

Willow watched as Snyder stood up and began pacing around the room. He was acting even stranger then usual. When he stopped behind her, Willow felt a sense of unease.

"Do you know why I called you in here?"

"No sir. I kind of figured you had a student that needed tutoring." Willow said.

"Oh, no, nothing like that."

The hair on the back of Willow's neck stood up as she heard Snyder talk. She practically jumped out of her chair when she felt him put his hands on her shoulders. Willow's stomach felt like lead as Snyder began massaging her shoulders. She didn't know what was going on, but she knew she didn't like it.

"Then why did you send for me?" Willow asked, trying to keep her voice calm.

The sound of Snyder's laughter sent chills through Willow's body. She tried to stand, but Snyder's hands kept her in the chair. He was incredibly strong for such a troll.

Willow jumped as she felt Snyder's breath against her cheek. "I have plans for you, Ms. Rosenberg."

"Whaa...what kind of plans?"

Snyder stroked Willow's cheek. "You're a smart girl, I think you can figure it out."

Willow gagged as she realized that Snyder's plans were of the sexual nature. She managed to jump up and get to the door before Snyder caught her. He slammed her against the wall, and held her there, while his hands moved over her body.

"I didn't tell you to leave yet, little girl. From now on, you will do exactly what I tell you to do.....when I tell you to do it." Snyder said.

"No!! I won't do it." Willow refused.

Snyder's hand wrapped in Willow's hair and pulled hard enough to bring tears to her eyes. "You will because you don't have a choice. You refuse me, and I'll see to it that your little friends are destroyed."

"What do you mean?"

"I know all about the Slayer and her Watcher. You do anything to make me angry, and I'll see to it that they are disposed of."

Willow closed her eyes and tried to convince herself that this was all a really bad dream. But, Snyder's hand on her breast made her accept that it was just a really horrible reality.

"Now, you can go. But I expect you to come running when I call you. Try to tell Summers or that librarian anything, and I will make good on my threat. There's no one who can help you now." Snyder said evilly.

Snyder kissed Willow roughly, then let her go. Willow ran out of the office, and didn't stop until she was in the bathroom. She went to the sink and tried to wash away the feel of his lips. Then she sank to the floor and cried. What was she going to do? She couldn't risk her friends lives, but she knew she couldn't do what Snyder wanted her to. Just the thought of Snyder touching her again made her physically sick. {There's got to be someone I can go to?}

Willow stood and began wiping at her tears. There was one person that she could go to who would help her figure out what to do. She rushed out of the school and headed to Angel's apartment.

It had been weeks since she'd seen him. Angel didn't come around much since he and Buffy broke up, but Willow knew he was still watching them......protecting them. And that's what she needed now. Someone to protect her from Snyder.

Willow rushed into the building, and began pounding on the door. She knew that since it was still daylight, Angel would be home. It was several moments when a jean-clad Angel opened the door. His sleep tousled hair an indication that he'd been sleeping.

"Willow? What's wrong?" Angel asked as he took in Willow's tearstained face.

"Angel, I.......I need your help. Please!" Willow said.

Angel reached out and pulled Willow into his apartment. She was shaking like a leaf. Something had scared her badly.

"Tell me what's happened."

End Part 1

Angel watched as Willow sat on the couch, still shaking. He knelt down in front of her, and clasped her cold hands in his own.

"Willow, tell me what happend. I'll do whatever I can to help."

"I'm scared Angel. He threatened to hurt Buffy and the others if I said anything."

"Who threatened you, Willow?" Angel asked angrily.

"Principal Snyder."

Angel had only seen the principal a time or two when he'd been lurking in the hallway. Why the hell would he be threatening Willow?

"Why? What's he want?"

Willow was silent for several moments, until Angel lifted her chin. "Tell me what he did, Willow."

Angel got angrier as Willow told him about her visit to the principal's office. The little weasel had dared to touch Willow.

"Willow, you have to talk to Giles, he'd know what to do. Report Snyder to the school board or something."

Willow jumped up, and began nervously fidgeting. "No, no, no.....I can't risk it. Besides, I don't want everybody knowing what he did. I can't face that."

Angel stood and watched Willow. Maybe she was right. It was probably better to keep this quiet until he knew what was going on. Angel walked over and pulled Willow into his arms. She wrapped her arms around him tightly. Angel ran his hands lightly up and down her back.

"I can still feel him touching me, Angel. The feel of his lips on mine. God, just the thought makes me sick."

"Maybe I can help with that too."

Angel bent and captured Willow's lips. Willow's gasp of surprise allowed Angel to slip his tongue into her mouth. After a brief hesitation, Willow's hands moved up to Angel's hair, and she pressed more firmly into the kiss.

Needing to breath, Willow pulled away from the kiss and eyed Angel curiously. "Wow. That helped."

Angel smiled and ran a finger down Willow's cheek. "I'm glad."

Angel kissed Willow again, then pulled her onto the couch. He wrapped her tightly in his arms.

"Willow, I want you to try to stay away from Snyder until I can think of someway to get him to back off."

"It's not like I'm going to go around looking for him, but what if he calls me into his office again? If I don't go, he might hurt Buffy and the others."

"Buffy can take care of herself and the others, it's you I'm worried about. If he calls you in, come up with some excuse. Stall until I have time to figure this out."

Willow nodded then leaned against Angel. It was strange being in Angel's arms, but she couldn't allow herself to dwell on that right now.

"I would do anything to protect my friends, you know that, right? But I don't think I could let him.....that I could......" Willow said as she began crying again.

Angel pulled Willow onto his lap, and began caressing her. "You don't have to do anything, Willow. I won't let the little bastard touch you. I promise."

Willow trusted Angel, and tried to relax in his arms. She knew Angel would figure out a way to help her. But, it didn't stop the horrific visions that her mind kept coming up with. She burrowed closer to Angel, and snuggled tightly against him. In his arms, she felt safe.

End Part 2

Angel sat holding Willow in his arms. He had to figure out a way to help her, preferrably without involving the others. First thing he'd do, as soon as the sun set, would be to snoop around a little. Angel needed to know what he was dealing with. Was Snyder just a perverted little troll......or was he something worse?

"Willow, are your parents home?"

"No, they're away on business." Willow said.

"Then I want you to stay here. I don't think Snyder would do anything as stupid as going to your house, but I don't want to take any chances."

"Ok, if you don't mind."

"Of course I don't mind. I'll go get the bed ready for you."

Angel kissed Willow on the head, then headed to the bedroom. Willow went to the phone and called Buffy. She let her friend know that she was going to bed early, and was turning off the phone. Willow felt guilty lying to Buffy, but she didn't want Buffy to worry if she called and Willow didn't answer. And Willow couldn't tell her the truth.

"All set. I laid out a t-shirt that you can sleep in."

"Thanks Angel, for everything."

Angel smiled, and led Willow into the bedroom. "I need to go out for awhile. Don't answer the door to anyone while I'm gone."

Willow nodded, gave Angel a quick hug, then headed into the bathroom. Angel waited till he heard the shower running, then left the apartment. He made sure the door locked behind him and headed for the school.

Angel didn't expect Snyder to still be there, but maybe he'd be able to find something in the principal's files. Or at least find out where the little shit lived.

Angel moved silently through the school. He had passed the library, and knew that Buffy and Giles were both in there. The last thing he wanted was for them to catch him sneaking around. Angel made his way through the school, and found the principal's office. He was surprised to find the outer door unlocked.

As Angel entered the waiting area, he could see light in the inner office, and voices carrying out the partially open door. Moving in the shadows, Angel neared the door. He could make out two voices, and knew one was Snyder, but he had no idea who the other one was. Angel listened carefully, and had to control his impulse to growl when he heard the other man ask about Willow.

"In two night's time, I will have powers you cannot imagine......and all I have to do is screw that virgin, then kill her. With her virgin's blood, combined with the blood of death, I will get what I deserve." Snyder said.

Angel's anger intensified as the little troll spoke so carelessly about raping and killing someone as sweet and innocent as Willow.

"But what if she doesn't show up when you call her?"

"She'll show up...I've given her no choice. She thinks I'll kill her friends if she goes to them." Snyder stated.

"And would you?"

"Of course not, I'd just kill her. If she does as she's told, her death will be quick. If she doesn't show, I will find her and kill her slowly for costing me these powers. Either way, Willow Rosenberg will die."

Angel backed away from the office before he lost his control. He wanted nothing more then to go in there and break the little weasel's neck. What kind of powers was he so determined to get? And why did he pick Willow?

Angel knew that only one man could answer those questions. Angel made his way back to the library and waited till Buffy left. Then he went to talk to Giles.

Angel entered his apartment silently, not wanting to wake up Willow. He threw himself onto the couch and rubbed his hands over his face. Angel had made Giles promise not to tell anyone about what was going on, then they searched for any information about what Snyder was up to. Both were discouraged when they were unable to come up with anything. They had then sat and tried to come up with some way to protect Willow. The only thing they knew for sure was that Snyder could not be allowed to gain any powers.

They had discussed several options, but kept coming back to the same one. If Willow was no longer a virgin, the ritual could not be completed. Angel had looked in shock at what the Watcher was suggesting, but soon realized that Giles was right. But that still wouldn't keep her safe from Snyder's revenge. It was only later, as Angel was walking home, that an idea began forming in his mind. Now he just had to hope that it worked.

Angel called Giles and told him about his idea. Giles told him that it might work, but if it didn't, steps would have to be taken to protect Willow. Before hanging up, Angel made Giles promise that Buffy and the others wouldn't be anywhere near the school that night. If his plan was to work, he couldn't have Buffy rushing in and confusing the situation.

Angel sat trying not to think about how he was going to explain his plan to Willow. He'd let her sleep for awhile yet, then he'd have to talk to her before she went to school. Angel figured Snyder would contact Willow tomorrow.

Tomorrow night Willow's life would change.......because if he didn't help her with that, the following night she would die. And Angel had no intention of letting that happen.

End Part 3

Angel sat on the bed watching Willow sleep. It was time to wake her, but he couldn't bring himself to disturb her sleep. Reaching out, he caressed her cheek. Angel pulled his hand away as Willow's eyes fluttered open, and she looked up at him. Pulling herself into a seated position, Willow took in Angel's appearance.

"What's wrong?"

"Last night I went to get information on Snyder. I overheard him talking in his office, and then Giles and I tried to make sense of what I heard."

"Giles knows?" Willow asked.

"I needed his help, Willow. I'm sorry, but he promised not to mention it to the others."

Willow nodded, she knew Angel wouldn't have involved Giles unless there'd been no choice. "So what did you find out? It's more then just Snyder being a creep, isn't it?"

"I'm afraid so, but Giles and I have come up with a plan. It may seem a bit extreme, but the only alternative seems to be getting you away from Sunnydale for an indefinate period of time. And that still remains as a last resort."

"Angel, you're scaring me. Please, just tell me what's going on."

Angel stood and began pacing while he told Willow about the conversation he'd overheard, the research he and Giles had done, and lastly, the only course of action they'd been able to come up with. After he'd finished telling her everything, Angel turned to look at Willow. She had pulled her knees up to her chest, and was staring off into space with tears in her eyes.

"Willow, I'm sorry. If there was any other way........" Angel said.

Willow barely heard Angel's words. Her mind was processing what he'd just gotten done telling her. She understood everything he'd said, but it didn't make it any easier to accept. Taking a deep breath, she looked up at Angel.

"So I have to have sex before tomorrow night in order to be safe from Snyder. And that still won't protect me from his revenge."

"I'd go with you tomorrow night, and I'll face Snyder. We're hoping that he'll be scared enough of me to leave you alone. If not, then we may have to hide you away for awhile."

"Damn him! Damn him for doing this to me!" Willow yelled.

"Willow......."

Willow just shook her head and walked to the bathroom. At the doorway she stopped. Without turning around, Willow asked Angel, "Who?"

"Who, what?"

"Who would I......I mean who would........." Willow couldn't bring herself to put it into words, but Angel understood.

"Me." Angel said softly.

Angel saw Willow nod slightly and walk into the bathroom. Angel dropped to the bed and leaned his chin on his hands. Willow didn't deserve this. Her first time should've been of her own choosing. Everything that should make it special was being decided for her.........the when, the where, and most importantly the who. Her first lover should be a man who loved her beyond reason, and who she loved in return. Not her best friend's demon ex-boyfriend. But, none of them had a choice. Angel would do his best to make it as special as possible, under the circumstances.

Willow walked around the school in a daze. Buffy and Xander were luckily gone for two days with a trip for one of their classes, so she didn't have to try to cover her behavior. And by the time they got back, this whole mess would be over......one way or another. Giles had been very fatherly when he'd talked to her about what would happen that night. He tried his best to reassure her.

Willow found a note from Snyder in her locker after school. Her skin crawled as she read his demand that she be at his office at 8pm the following night. And the implied threat if she disobeyed him. Willow slammed her locker shut, and turned to run out of the building. She stopped dead in her tracks as she saw Snyder standing next to the stairs, grinning at her. Willow backed up, and ran the opposite direction.

In the safety of her bedroom, Willow laid on the bed crying. She didn't know what to do. {How the hell did I end up in this situation?} As an image of Snyder's smiling face came to her mind, so did visions of what he intended to do to her. Willow could deal with the thought that he wanted to kill her, she'd experienced that often enough living on the Hellmouth. But, she couldn't deal with the thought of him touching her......raping her. As her body shuddered, Willow made up her mind. Jumping off the bed, Willow quickly threw some clothes into a bag, and headed for Angel's.

She'd always dreamed of what her first time would be like, and it was nothing like what the reality would be. But Willow trusted Angel implicitly, and she knew he wouldn't hurt her. Under the circumstances, she was damn lucky that Angel was a good enough friend to do this for her.

Willow stood for a moment outside Angel's building. Things would change as soon as she walked into Angel's apartment. First and foremost, the fact that she and Angel were about to become lovers. {Forgive me Buffy.}

End Part 4

Angel and Willow sat on the couch in silence, soft music in the background the only sound in the apartment. Angel saw the tenseness in Willow's body, and knew that if this was going to work, he'd have to try to get her to relax.

"Willow, do you trust me?"

"You know I do."

Angel reached over and motioned for Willow to sit on the floor. He moved behind her, so that she was sitting between his legs, and he was leaning against the couch. His hands moved to her shoulders, and began massaging them, telling Willow to take deep breaths and relax. Willow's head dropped forward onto her chest, and did as Angel asked. Angel kneaded the tight muscles until he felt her begin to relax. Slowly, he let his hands slide up and down her arms. When she didn't try to move away, Angel let his hands move down to grip her hands. He moved her hands to his legs, and left them there as he moved his own hands back to her shoulders. Angel smiled slightly when Willow made no effort to move her hands.

Angel used one hand to move her hair away from her neck, and began nuzzling her neck. Willow tilted her head, giving him better access. As he began kissing the slim column of her neck, Angel felt Willow's hands grip his legs tightly. Her innocent touch was setting him on fire. Angel moved his other hand around to splay against her stomach. Willow leaned back against Angel.

Switching attention to the other side of her neck, Angel moved his hand from her neck to join his other hand on her stomach. As Angel's hands moved under her sweatshirt, Willow's hands began caressing his thighs. Angel made tiny circles on her stomach, before moving first one hand then the other up to cup her breasts. Willow moaned as Angel's cool hands moved over her bare stomach.

Angel turned Willow sideways, draping her legs over his left leg. He moved one hand to grip the back of her neck, while the other remained under Willow's shirt. Angel looked briefly into Willow's eyes before capturing her lips in a soul-searing kiss. Willow wrapped one arm around his back, while the other moved to his face. The kiss only ended when Willow needed to breathe. Then Angel recaptured her mouth, as his hand moved from her breasts, down her stomach, to caressing her legs. As Willow began responding more to his kiss, his hand moved to cup her most private area. Willow gasped, but didn't pull away.

The feel of her body in his arms, pressing intimately against his hardening erection, was pushing Angel to the edge of his control. Gripping her by the hips, he lifted her so that he could stand, then he swung her into his arms. Finding her lips again, Angel carried Willow into the bedroom, never breaking the kiss. Setting her on her feet next to the bed, Angel met Willow's gaze as he slowly took of his shirt. Standing before her in just his jeans, Angel wanted to give her a chance to get used to seeing him without his clothes. Reaching for her hands, he placed them on his chest.

Willow looked at him curiously, and he nodded, giving her permission to get acquainted with his body. Hesitantly, Willow moved her hands across his muscled chest. Willow felt Angel's hands wrap around her body, and reach under her sweatshirt to unhook her bra. Willow leaned against Angel's chest. Emotions she'd never experienced before were threatening to knock her off her feet. Angel slid his hands up her sides, pushing her shirt up. Giving Willow the chance to stop him, Angel pulled the sweatshirt over her head, and threw her bra to the floor. When Willow tried to cover her breasts, Angel pulled her tightly against him. Pressing her naked breasts against his chest. Willow's arms wrapped around Angel's waist, and she anxiously met him in a passionate kiss.

Moving his hands to her hips, Angel began pushing down her jeans. As he knelt in front of her, Angel placed feather-light kisses on her stomach, before dipping his tongue in her bellybutton. Willow's hands clutched Angel's shoulders as he finished removing the last of her clothing. Kissing his way back up her body, Angel's hand moved to her waist. Picking her up, he laid her down on the bed. His eyes never left hers as he removed his jeans. Willow kept her gaze on Angel's face, unable to bring herself to look at *that* part of his body.

Angel joined Willow on the bed, covering her body with his own. As his knee moved her legs apart, his mouth found her breasts. Willow wound her hands in his hair, and arched up against Angel as she felt him slip a finger into her core. The one finger was replaced with a second and then a third. Willow's emotions were all jumbled as she pressed against his hand. Angel moved up her body to kiss her, while he positioned his body between her legs.

Whispering soothing words to her, Angel entered her in a single thrust. Willow's scream was muffled by Angel's mouth. Her hands gripped into his shoulders painfully, but he remained still. As Willow's grip on him loosened, and she began moving, Angel began moving within her. His hands entwined with hers, as they began their sexual dance. Angel drew out Willow's pleasure, and screamed out in his own release.

They collapsed in each other's arms. Angel looked down into Willow's eyes, and smiled at her.

"Are you okay?"

Willow nodded, and reached up to stroke his face. "Better then okay."

Angel caught her hand and it kissed it gently. Lying on his back, Angel pulled Willow into his arms, and they fell into an exhausted sleep. Neither thought of what the consequences of the night's actions would be......and neither thought about their reactions to each other.

End Part 5

Angel woke the next morning, and looked down at the sleeping girl in his arms. Memories of the night before came flooding back, and Angel was surprised at his own reactions. How had it gone from just a matter of taking her virginity, to making love? As Angel watched his lover sleeping, he felt a possessiveness that he'd never known before. His hand reached out and cupped her face, and he bent down and kissed her.

Willow woke, and responded to Angel's kiss. Her arms wrapped around his neck, and pulled him closer to her. It took them both several moments to realize what they were doing. Willow's hands dropped back to the bed, and Angel pulled away far enough to look down into her eyes.

They just stared at each other for several moments, both acknowledging that somewhere along the lines, things had changed.

"I.....I should get ready for school. Don't want Snyder getting suspicious." Willow said.

At the mention of the principal's name, Angel's hand tightened on Willow's shoulder. "I don't want you anywhere near him."

Willow was surprised at the tone of Angel's voice, but felt a warm feeling at his concern. "He won't try anything in school."

"I meant tonight. I don't think you should go anywhere near the school. You stay here, and I'll go alone." Angel said.

"That's not the plan, you know that. I go in first, and let him know that his little ritual has been ruined. Then you walk in and scare the shit out of him."

Angel dropped his head to Willow's shoulder. He didn't understand the things he was feeling. Willow was his friend, nothing more. So why was he acting like a man in love? {I'm just worried about her safety. Just because we've ruined Snyder's plan to get his damn powers, that doesn't mean Willow's safe yet.}

"You're right, I'm sorry. I just don't want you to have to be anywhere near him."

Willow nodded, then crawled out of bed. Angel watched her grab her bag, and go into the bathroom. He dropped back on the bed. Just watching her walk to the bathroom had made him hard. Swearing softly to himself, Angel grabbed his jeans, and went into the kitchen to feed.

Several moments later, Angel watched Willow come out of the bedroom. She didn't meet his gaze as she sat and put on her shoes. As soon as she was ready, Willow walked to the door.

"Willow."

Willow stopped but didn't turn around. "I've got to go Angel. I'll see you after school."

Angel walked behind Willow, and pulled her back against him. His hands pressed against her stomach, and he whispered in her ear.

"I know you're confused about what happened between us, the emotions that have emerged, so am I. Right now we need to concentrate on Snyder, but after tonight, you and I need to sit down and talk. Openly and honestly about everything that's happened. I won't let you run away from this, Willow."

Willow nodded, then leaned her head briefly against his chest. She knew he was right. Things had changed more then they'd ever expected.

When Willow pulled away, Angel let her go. There would be time for their talk later. Angel went to the phone to call Giles. He wanted the Watcher to keep an eye on Willow during the day. Then Angel went over in his mind what he would do to the little troll.

Memories of making love to Angel made it impossible for Willow to concentrate on anything else. She didn't know why she considered it making it love, but her mind wouldn't allow her to think it had been just sex. And Angel's behavior this morning suggested he didn't think it had just been sex, either. {Just what we need....something else to complicate our lives.}

Willow was touched by Giles' protective attitude. And since he hadn't said anything to her, Willow decided that the Watcher must've already spoken to Angel. {I wonder how much Angel told Giles.} As Willow sat in the library waiting for school to end, she couldn't help thinking what would happen. Not only just that night, but afterwards.

The fact that she and Angel slept together could destroy her friendship with both Buffy and Xander. Would they find out? And would they understand why it had happened? And what would her relationship with Angel be like from now on? So many questions that she'd have to concentrate on later. For right now, Willow needed to build up her courage. She would need to be strong to face Snyder.

End Part 6

Willow sat on the couch waiting for Angel. It was almost time for them to leave, and he was still in the bedroom. He had been very secretive about what his plans for Snyder were. Willow leaned forward with her elbows on her knees, and rubbed at her forehead. Her head felt like someone was pounding stakes into it. She heard the door open, but didn't look up.

"It's time Willow."

"I know, but I can't help wishing this was all over." Willow said, still rubbing her head.

"Just remember that I'll be there the whole time. You'll only be alone with him for those first few minutes, but you know I'll be right outside the door. I won't let him hurt you."

"I know that Angel, it's just........." Willow's voice trailed off as she looked up at Angel.

Willow's eyes widened and she jumped off the couch. She backed away from Angel.

"Willow, what's wrong with you?"

Willow didn't say anything, she just continued staring at him. It was then that Angel realized what had happened. He'd caught Willow off guard with his appearance, and her mind was replaying the last time she'd seen him like this.

"Willow, I'm sorry, I should've told you what I was doing. I don't know exactly how much Snyder knows about what goes on in Sunnydale, but I'm betting he's heard of Angelus. Tonight, I plan on *being* Angelus."

Angel slowly moved toward Willow, and lifted her face. "Willow, look at me. You know I'm Angel."

Willow finally came out of her shock, and concentrated on Angel's eyes. They were still the eyes of her friend.....of her lover, not of a demon. She lowered her head, ashamed of how she'd reacted.

"I'm sorry. When I looked up and saw you dressed like Ang.......like *him*, it scared me."

Angel pulled Willow into his arms, and stroked her hair. {I'm a damn fool, I should've realized how she'd react.} But, he had decided Angelus would have a better chance of scaring Snyder. So, Angel had dug out the leather pants, velvet shirt, and long leather jacket in order to look like Angelus.

"Willow, there's something else you need to know. From the time I enter that little troll's office, I will *be* Angelus. I will sound like him, and I'll act like him. You must play along with me. Show fear of me, but also show loyalty. And know that no matter what I say or do, I'd never do anything to hurt you. This is the best way to get Snyder out of your life."

"Alright, I can do that. Let's get this over with. Please?"

Angel handed Willow her jacket, and they left for the school. Giles would be waiting in the library in case they needed to make a quick change in plans.

Angel and Willow reached the office, and Angel grabbed hold of Willow's arm. He pulled her into his arms, and kissed her.

"What was that for?"

"Luck?" Angel said smiling.

His smile gave Willow the courage she needed. They entered the outer office, and Angel moved into the shadows. Willow straightened her shoulders, took a quick look at Angel, then knocked on the door. Her stomach did flip-flops as she heard Snyder tell her to come in. Willow entered the office, only partially closing the door.

"Very punctual, Ms. Rosenberg. Looks like your friends might live to see their next birthdays."

"You didn't give me much choice. Come here or watch my friends die. So, I'm here.....but why am I here?" Willow asked.

Angel had warned her not to let Snyder know that she was aware of his plans. That would come later.

"You, my little virgin, are my key to being the most powerful man in this world. And once you are dead, no one will be able to stop me." Snyder boasted.

"Why did you call me that?" Willow asked innocently.

Willow's question surprised Snyder. "Because that's what you are. That was one of the reasons you were chosen."

Willow backed up slightly, and shook her head. Snyder was growing frustrated at the redhead's behavior. Rushing toward her, he pushed her down on the couch.

"Why are you shaking your head?" Snyder demanded.

Willow pushed herself into the corner of the couch, shaking with fear. {Angel is right outside. A couple more minutes and he'll come in. Be strong, Willow.}

"I......I'm not a virgin." Willow stuttered.

"What?!?!" Snyder said as he lifted Willow off the couch and pushed her against the wall. "You're lying! I was very careful." Snyder said as he slammed Willow against the wall again.

The sound of the door being kicked open made both Snyder and Willow jump. They looked at the newcomer. Standing just inside the door, looking like he didn't have a care in the world, but still managing to look deadly, was Angelus.

Willow closed her eyes, and forced herself to remember Angel's words. He may look like Angelus, but he was still Angel. Willow kept repeating that to herself, as she felt Snyder let go of her. She slumped to the floor.

"Who the hell do you think you are? Get out of here this instant." Snyder said.

Angel looked between Snyder and Willow, and fought to keep his face blank. Using his memories of Angelus, Angel crossed his arms and leaned against the wall.

"Tough words, squirt. Are you planning on backing them up by yourself?"

Some of Snyder's bravado faded at the cold menacing voice of the stranger standing in front of him. I....I want you to leave now. This doesn't concern you, whoever you are."

"The name's Angelus, and it is my business when you mess with something that belongs to me!"

Snyder took a step back as the stranger stated his name. He'd heard of the vampire Angelus, his viciousness was well-documented.

"I don't know what you're talking about. I have nothing that belongs to you." Snyder said.

Angel approached Snyder and backhanded him. Snyder hit the wall, then collapsed on the couch. A hand on his bleeding mouth, Snyder tried to push away from the vampire.

"Then why do you have her in your office?"

Snyder looked shocked. His gaze went to the girl slumped on the floor. Surely, he had heard the vampire wrong.

"What does that have to do with anything?" Snyder said, trying to get back in control of the situation.

"You're not very bright, are you? Let me spell it out for you. *She* belongs to *me. By touching her, you have challenged me."

Snyder stood up, and walked around the vampire. He went to stand behind his desk, hoping to regain his composure.

"You expect me to believe that someone like you would be interested in someone like her. She's hardly your type." Snyder said, casting a derogatory glance at Willow.

Angel picked up a lamp, throwing it at Snyder. Snyder fell back in his chair as the lamp hit the wall next to him.

"You little bastard! What do *you* know of my type? What makes you think you know anything about me?"

Snyder took a deep breath, and looked frantically around the room. This whole night had gone to hell. Finding out Rosenberg wasn't a virgin was bad enough, but then to find out she belonged to a damn vampire. An extremely pissed off, dangerous, murderous vampire. Just moments ago, he had been contemplating Willow's death........now he was contemplating his own.

"Wha......what do you want from me?"

Angel leaned forward on the desk, and grinned evilly at Snyder.

"I.......want......you......to......die.......slowly!"

Snyder tried to stand, but fainted into a heap on the floor. Angel shook his head at the man. Quickly, he walked over to Willow, who was still slumped on the floor. He reached out tenderly and stroked her cheek.

"Are you okay?"

Willow nodded.

"Good, this shouldn't take too much longer. He's only a bully when he confronts people he can intimidate or threaten. But faced with someone he can't control, he becomes the victim."

They heard Snyder begin to moan. Angel gave Willow a smile, then went to stand next to the man who was lying face-down on the floor. Angel was actually looking forward to terrorizing the little twerp. Angel smirked at the fun yet to come. {Time to let the demon out to play.}

End Part 7

Snyder shook his head, trying to remember what happened. Pushing himself up, he found himself looking at leather-clad legs. His face paled as he remembered *exactly* what had happened. He'd fainted like a damn girl. Puffing out his chest, Snyder pushed himself to his feet........and looked eye to chest with Angel.

Snyder gulped as he looked up into eyes that scared the shit out of him. He tried to back away, but bumped into the desk.

"Have a nice nap?" Angel asked.

"You'd do best to just leave Angelus. I have powerful friends." Snyder boasted.

"Ahhh, and wouldn't those powerful friends like to know exactly what you were planning behind their backs?" Angel asked.

"I don't know what you're talking about. The girl and I were just having some fun. Guess you couldn't satisfy her." Snyder said stupidly.

Angel growled and shoved the little shit backwards. Snyder fell into the chair and back onto the floor when the chair tipped.

"Not a smart thing to say. You're making me angry........and let me tell you, people don't like me when I'm angry."

Angel walked around the desk, picked Snyder up by the shirt, and slammed him against the wall.

"Willow, come here!" Angel demanded.

Snyder watched as the girl pushed herself off the floor, and meekly moved to the vampire's side. Snyder saw that Rosenberg was scared of the vampire, but she did as he told her.

"Tell me what you were doing in this office."

Willow bowed her head, "He threatened me. If I didn't do as he said, he'd hurt my friends."

"The little slut's lying!"

Angel slammed Snyder against the wall continuously. "That's my girl you're talking about. And the only one who's had her is me. Now, if you touched her, I'll make you wish to hell you'd never been born!"

"I didn't touch her! Tell him, damnit!" Snyder demanded of Willow.

Angel looked at Willow. "Did he trespass, Willow?"

"No, you got here before he could. He planned to rape me......then kill me," Willow said, "but he got angry when he found out I wasn't a virgin."

Angel laughed, then turned back to Snyder, "You thought she was a virgin? Didn't do your homework, did you? Now you've lost your chance at getting any of the powers. You're back to being nothing but your 'powerful friends' gopher."

Snyder looked at Angel in shock. "Impossible. You couldn't have known."

"I know more then you'd ever imagine." Angel said as he threw Snyder onto the couch.

Kneeling next to the couch, Angel caught Snyder around the neck. "Now, I want you to listen to me *very* carefully. I'm feeling in a generous mood tonight, so I'm going to let you live. You're pathetic life isn't worth it. But, if I ever see you around Willow again, I will personally squeeze every last ounce of blood out of your body. And if I find out that you have done anything to try to hurt her in anyway, I will become your worst nightmare. Am I making myself perfectly clear?"

Snyder gasped for breath. His plans had failed, and there was nothing he could do about it. If he attempted any kind of retaliation against the girl, Angelus would hunt him down. His pride wasn't worth as much as his life.

"Crystal clear. I'll never go anywhere near her again." Snyder choked out.

Angel lifted him up by the neck. "Good, I'm glad we understand each other. And stay away from the others too. I'd really hate to have to let your friends know what you've been up to. I don't think they'd be as forgiving as I am."

Angel smirked at the look of fear on Snyder's face, then dropped him to floor. Angel grabbed Willow's arm, and pulled her to the door. Turning back to the principal, Angel laughed.

"And you may want to get some dry clothes on. Bladder problems can be so embarassing."

Willow had to press her face into Angel's back to hide the grin on her face. The little rodent had pissed his pants in fear.

"I've heard people your age like Depends. Helps with the unsightly mess." Angel taunted.

Snyder watched as the vampire pulled the redheaded girl out of his office. Snyder swore viciously. He had never been so humiliated in his entire life.

"I'll make you pay!" Snyder yelled as he stood up.

"Really, Principal Snyder, who are you kidding? You try anything and Angelus will rip you to shreds. Then the Mayor would find out about your extracurricular activities, and kill you again."

Snyder turned towards the man he had talked to earlier. The only thing he knew about the mystery man was that he worked for the Mayor.

"I was so close, and that girl ruined it!"

"You ruined it by not getting your facts right. I helped you, against my better judgement, and if my employer discovers that, we're both dead. Now, you're going to listen to me. From now on, you will do as your told, and nothing else. We don't need trouble from that vampire or the Slayer right now. You will accept your defeat, and move on."

Snyder watched the man leave as quietly as he'd appeared. Damn all these people meddling in his affairs. {Fine, I'll let it go for now. But I'm not finished.}

After quickly letting Giles know that everything went according to plan, Angel and Willow headed back to his apartment. They had overcome the immediate danger. Snyder hadn't been able to receive the powers he'd been after, and Angel had scared him enough so that he would leave Willow alone.

Angel watched Willow flop down on the couch. He'd been so proud of her performance with Snyder. Despite her fear, she had done exactly as he had asked of her. The strain of the past few days were showing though. Angel picked Willow off the couch and carried her into the bedroom. Setting her on the bed, Angel removed her socks and shoes. Willow's eyes kept drifting closed as she tried to watch Angel. Helping her stand, he removed her shirt and jeans, then put her under the covers.

Removing his own clothes, he joined her in the bed. Pulling her body tightly back against his, Angel wrapped his arms around her. He placed kisses along her shoulder, to her neck, up to her face.

"Sleep Willow. The worst is past."

Willow snuggled contentedly against Angel and drifted into a peaceful sleep. Angel's sleep didn't come as quickly. His mind kept racing with thoughts of what would happen now that things could get back to normal. Morning would be soon enough to talk to Willow about what had happened between them.

And after the sun set, Giles was expectanting them at the library. Buffy and Xander would be returning and would have to be told what happened. Angel had tried to talk Giles out of telling them, for fear of what it would do to Willow. But, Giles had been adamant. Buffy needed to know in order to keep her eye on Snyder.

Angel had insisted that he and Willow needed time to talk about everything before meeting with the others. Giles had agreed and would tell Buffy and Xander that Willow was away for the day. Angel was not looking forward to that meeting. No matter what he and Willow decided, the fact remained that they had slept together. And he wasn't sure that Buffy and Xander would understand that.

As Angel pulled Willow more firmly against him, he wanted nothing more then to protect her from anymore pain. But, how were he and Willow supposed to explain to the others what they didn't understand themselves. The nightmare may be over, but it wasn't forgotten.

End Part 8

Angel walked into the living room, and sat down next to Willow. She kept her gaze on her hands.

"How long have you been up?" Angel asked.

"I don't know. A couple hours I guess."

Angel wasn't sure what to say next. He leaned back and rested his head on the couch. Willow leaned forward, still looking at her hands.

"I didn't run, Angel." Willow whispered.

Angel smiled, and reached out to touch her back. "We really did it this time, didn't we?"

Willow nodded, then turned to look at him. "What do we do now?"

"I don't know Willow. It was supposed to be so simple. We have sex so that Snyder can't use you in his ritual, we scare him into leaving you alone, then we go back to being friends. But it didn't work out that way."

"I'm sorry, Angel."

Angel sat up and turned Willow to face him, gripping her shoulders. "Don't ever say that! I don't want you to be sorry about we did......I'm not."

"But, Angel, you love Buffy. I know you're not together anymore, but that doesn't change your feelings. We have to put what happened out of our minds. We had sex because it was something that was necessary. Let's just leave it at that." Willow pleaded.

Angel angrily pulled Willow into his arms, kissing her roughly. Willow's hands moved to his chest, but she didn't attempt to push him away.

Pulling away from the kiss, Angel leaned his head against Willow's forehead. "You can't do that anymore then I can. I don't care how many times we try to tell ourselves that we did what we *had* to do. It doesn't change the fact that we made love. You felt the same emotions I did. And as for my feelings for Buffy, I don't know what I feel anymore."

"Angel, what are we going to do? I don't want to hurt Buffy."

"I don't either, but I don't want to lose you either. You and I need time to figure out what we feel for each other. Our relationship climaxed under extreme circumstances, so we may just be feeling that. Or, our feelings could do deeper. I don't honestly know, but I want the chance to find out." Angel said.

Willow leaned against Angel and began crying. "I want that chance too."

Angel wrapped his arms around Willow, "We'll get through this together. All we can do is try to explain everything to Buffy and Xander as clearly as possible. Try to make them understand that we didn't do this to hurt them."

"And if they hate us?" Willow asked.

"Then we give them time to deal with their own issues. Xander's only problem with this will be his animosity towards me. As for Buffy, she knows that we could never be together again. It may be a shock to her at first, but I think she'll accept it."

"I hope so. I don't want to lose my friends. But, I don't want to walk away from you either. If I did that, I'd spend the rest of my life wondering 'what if'. And I don't want any doubts."

"Then we're agreed. We will take our relationship slowly, build on what we already have. Then we'll take it day by day and see where it goes. And whatever happens, we will stay friends."

"Agreed."

Willow kissed Angel gently on the lips, then leaned into his embrace. It was several hours till they needed to meet at the library. So, the couple snuggled on the couch and watched TV.

Several moments later, Angel heard Willow giggling. "What's so funny?"

"Nothing." Willow said.

Angel began tickling Willow until she answered him. "Alright, I was just remembering Snyder's face when you taunted him about peeing his pants. It was definately a Kodak moment."

Angel smiled, "That was definately an Angelus attempt at humor, but it worked out rather well. The little troll's face did turn a rather interesting shade of purple, didn't it?"

"Angel, you're bad." Willow said.

"You know it, baby."

Willow erupted into another giggling fit, before settling down to watch television. Willow's laughter was music to Angel's ears.

"Willow, it's time to go. Giles and the others will be waiting."

"I know. Do you think he's told them anything yet?" Willow asked.

Angel was silent as he put on his jacket.

"Angel?"

"Giles and I decided he'd fill them in before we got there. Give them time to deal with everything. Then when we get there, we can sit down and discuss it. Calmly, hopefully."

"I think that was probably the best decision. Otherwise, I know Xander would've flown off the handle right away, and wouldn't listen to anything past hearing that we had sex."

Angel stopped Willow at the door. "We didn't have sex Willow. What we shared was much more then that.....we made love."

Angel wrapped his arm around Willow's shoulders, and they left his apartment. The cool night air was refreshing, and they walked slowly to the school. Outside the library doors, they stopped.

"Ready?" Angel asked worriedly.

"Ready or not......it's time to face them."

"Together."

"Together." Willow agreed.

Willow grabbed for Angel's hand, and they entered the library. Giles looked up as they walked in and greeted them. Buffy and Xander sat silently at the table, both staring at the tabletop. {Xander not talking. That can't be good. And Buffy won't even look at me. Please, let them understand.} Willow took a deep breath, and went to stand by the table........still holding tightly to Angel's hand.

End Part 9

"I think you all need to talk. I'll be in my office if you need me." Giles said, and walked away.

Angel and Willow looked at each other, then turned back to Buffy and Xander.

"Guys, we need to talk about this." Willow said.

Xander looked at his best friend holding hands with Angel and jumped out of his chair.

"No!"

They watched as Xander left the library. Buffy still sat quietly at the table.

"I better go talk to him. You try to explain this to Buffy." Willow said.

"Ok, but be careful. I still don't trust Snyder." Angel told her.

Willow squeezed his hand, then went in search of Xander. Angel sat down across from Buffy.

"Buffy......." Angel began.

"You don't have to say anything, Angel. Giles explained everything. You did what you had to do in order to protect Willow. It's hard to think about, but I do understand." Buffy said.

"Buffy, I'm sorry if this hurts you, but you have to know something else. Something I don't think Giles told you."

"I already know. You have feelings for Willow."

"How did you know that?" Angel asked.

"I watched you two just now. You look at her the way you used to look at me." Buffy said sadly.

"Look, we're not sure what our feelings are, but we need to find out. I'm asking you to try to understand that. Willow is afraid of losing your friendship, and I don't want to see her hurt anymore."

Buffy stood and put on her coat, "Angel, I still love you and I probably always will, but I have begun to accept that we can never be together. I want you to be happy, and if Willow makes you happy, then that's what's important. As for Willow, she's the best friend I've ever had and I don't want to lose that either."

Buffy walked over and kissed Angel on the cheek. "Just give me some time alone to deal with this, okay?"

Angel nodded, and watched as Buffy left the library. Buffy had handled it well, he just hoped Xander would be as understanding.

Willow found Xander sitting in the hallway, leaning against the lockers. Willow sat down next to him.

"Xander, please talk to me."

"Do you love him?" Xander asked.

"I don't know, but I do care about him. We haven't had the chance to explore our feelings yet."

"No, you skipped that part and went straight to his bed!" Xander said angrily.

Willow flinched. "That's not fair, Xander. Angel was there for me when I needed him."

"I would've been there! But you didn't come to me. Damnit Will, I'm your best friend, but you didn't come to me when you were in trouble. Instead, you went to dead boy. How do you think that makes me feel?"

"Snyder threatened to kill you! I couldn't risk your life, Xander. Besides, I was ashamed to tell you about Snyder."

"You had no reason to be ashamed. None of that was your fault." Xander said.

"Xander, please just try to understand this. I don't want to lose your friendship, but I need you to accept that Angel has become a major part of my life."

Xander knocked his head back against the lockers then stood up, keeping his back to Willow. "I don't know if I can do that, Will. I can't look at the two of you and not get mental pictures of what you did."

Willow stood, "What's really bothering you, Xander? That I didn't come to you when Snyder threatened me...........or that I slept with Angel?"

"Everything about this situation bothers me. I need time to think, Willow."

Willow slumped against the lockers in tears as Xander walked away. She could only hope that Xander would come to accept the changes that had occured.

"Isn't it dangerous being here alone, Ms. Rosenberg?"

Willow tensed at the sound of the hated principal's voice. She looked up to see Snyder standing there glaring at her.

"Where's your little boyfriend? Get rid of you already?"

Willow began backing away from Snyder, only to collide with a muscular body. She jumped as arms wrapped around her waist.

"I'm right here. Obviously, I didn't make myself clear before. I believe you were to stay away from Willow." Angel said, tightening his grip on Willow.

Snyder paled as he saw the vampire emerge from the shadows. He'd been sure the girl was alone. "I understood everything you said. I can't help it if we accidently ran into each other. It wouldn't have happened if she wasn't hanging around after school hours."

Snyder didn't have a chance to move before Angel had him pinned to the wall. "From now on, it'll be up to you to make sure there are no more *accidental* meetings. And if by some chance, you happen to see Willow, you will disappear before you ever get close to her. I won't warn you again."

Angel brought his knee up into Snyder's groin.....hard. He let the principal drop to the ground. Angel walked back to Willow and led her away.

Snyder remained on the ground, clutching his groin. Tears ran down his cheeks at the pain he was experiencing. It was in that moment, looking into Angelus' eyes, that Snyder knew he'd never go near Willow again. Snyder hadn't believed that Angelus would kill him over her, but he believed it now. The sooner she and her little friends graduated, the better he'd like it. When the pain finally subsided, Snyder hobbled to his office.

Angel walked Willow to her house, and they stood at the front door. Angel pulled Willow into his arms.

"I think Snyder finally got the picture. But let me know if he comes near you again."

"I will. What happens next? With us, I mean?" Willow asked.

"We date."

Willow smiled. "I like the sounds of that."

Angel pulled away from Willow, capturing her hands. "Willow, would you like to go out with me Friday night?"

"Well, I may have to check my schedule." Willow teased.

"Willow......."

"I'd love to go out with you." Willow replied.

"Good."

Angel kissed Willow gently on the lips, then backed away from her. Willow watched him, holding a hand to her lips. Angel stopped when he got to the sidewalk, waiting to make sure she got safely into the house. Willow waved, then entered the house. Angel watched the house for several moments, before heading home.

Alot had happened in only a few days, but Angel was feeling relaxed again. And he couldn't wait for Friday night. Now all he had to do was decide where to take Willow. He hadn't been on a real date for a very long time. But, he knew that it didn't matter what they did. As long as they were together, it would be special.

THE END

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