Distribution: TPWFLD; otherwise please ask.
Disclaimer: Characters don't belong to me. They belong to Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy. No copyright infringement intended.
Rating: R; untypical character behavior.
Author's notes: This story takes place a couple years in the future. Buffy is gone, Angel is still evil, and Xander and Willow are living together. Cordelia and Oz aren't in the picture anymore.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Willow opened the door to her apartment, and walked in. She had been gone on business for two weeks, and was happy to be home. Xander would be so surprised. Her business had concluded early, and she had decided to come home without telling Xander. She couldn't wait to see his face. Smiling, she walked up to their bedroom. Noises coming from the room stopped her. Willow could hear Xander laughing, but she also heard another voice. <What's going on?> Willow reached out a shaking hand, and slowly pushed open the door. At first all she saw was movement from the bed. As she pushed the door open farther, the truth of what she was seeing hit her. There, in the bed she and Xander shared, was Xander and a woman Willow didn't recognize.
Willow backed out of the room without being seen. The tears blinded her, but she didn't stop till she was safely in the hallway. She leaned against the wall, and the tears fell from her eyes. In a matter of minutes, her whole world had been destroyed. Xander had always been the one constant in her life. Her best friend, her lover, the one person who would never lie to her. But it had all been a lie. He had betrayed her as no one ever had. Willow slid to the floor, and dropped her head to her knees. <How could he do this to me? How long has this been going on?> Endless questions ran through her mind.
"Willow, dear, are you alright?"
Willow looked up at the kind face of her next door neighbor. The elderly woman had been like a grandmother to her since she and Xander had moved in three years earlier. Quickly wiping away the tears, Willow stood and offered the woman a smile.
"I'm fine, Mrs. Kenzie. Just got some bad news."
"Does it have anything to do with Xander's cousin?"
Willow looked at the woman, "Who?"
"The young woman who's been staying with Xander since you left on your trip."
Willow swayed back against the wall. His cousin? Xander didn't have a female cousin. Damn him, he'd had that....that woman living with him the past two weeks. How could he do this?
"Willow, do you want to talk about it?"
As Willow looked at her neighbor, she could tell that Mrs. Kenzie hadn't believed the story Xander had given her. She knew exactly what was going on.
"I just need to get out of here. Do some thinking. Thanks anyway, Mrs. Kenzie."
"I'm here anytime, my dear."
Willow nodded and turned to leave the building. She stopped, and turned.
"Mrs. Kenzie, please don't tell Xander that I'm back. He doesn't know yet. And I need time without him tracking me down to 'explain' what I saw."
"Don't you worry. I don't tell him anything."
Willow gave the woman a hug and headed out into the fresh air. She didn't know where she would go, but she had to get away from the apartment.
As Willow walked, she thought about all that had happened. Her trip had gone better then expected, and she had sold the software she had helped design to a major computer company. And when the business concluded sooner then expected, she had rushed home to surprise Xander. That decision had turned her world upside down. And she had no one to talk to about what happened. Buffy had disappeared years ago, and hadn't been in touch with anyone since. Willow's parents had moved away from Sunnydale, and she didn't want to try talking to her mom over a phone. Xander had always been the one she went to with her problems, but now he was the problem.
Willow found herself in the park, sitting on the bench, watching the sun set. She knew that once the sun went down, she'd be a sitting duck, but she really didn't care. Willow had survived alot living on the Hellmouth, but nothing had compared to the pain she was feeling now. And with the pain came anger. Willow had always forgiven Xander for everything he'd ever done. And how did he repay her forgivenss? By betraying her. She was sick of having him walk all over her. He never thought about how his actions affected her because he knew she'd forgive him anything. But she could not....would not forgive him for this. This time he'd gone too far, and there was no going back.
Willow began planning what she would do. She would wait till Xander left for work, then go and pack up her belongings. She'd stay at a hotel until she decided what to do. The crack of a branch alerted her to a presence behind her. Without turning, she simply accepted the fate that awaited her.
"Go ahead, kill me."
"Now what fun would that be. I like games better."
Willow's breath caught in her throat. She knew that voice. It was a voice she hadn't heard in over three years.
"Should I say welcome back, Angelus?"
End Part 1
Willow turned to see Angel standing behind the bench. His lips curved into a cruel smile, he was still as handsome as he ever was. The leather pants he wore made him look as sexy as he was dangerous. Angel had disappeared shortly after she'd graduated. Giles figured he'd gone in search of Buffy, to destroy her once and for all. That was why Giles had left, to try to find Buffy first.
"Did you miss me, Willow?"
"Not really."
Angel laughed, then came around to stand in front of her. Willow watched him cautiously, but made no move to run. She knew she'd never outrun him, and besides, she didn't want to. Maybe this was the way it was supposed to end.
Angel stared at the young woman. She didn't seem to be afraid of him, and had made no attempts to escape. Three years had changed her. He walked over and sat on the bench next to her.
"That hurts Willow. I thought of all people, you'd miss me a little."
"Did you ever find Buffy?"
The change in subject threw Angel for a moment.
"No. She's gotten good at hiding. Why, have you heard from her?"
Willow shook her head. This was getting her no where. If Angel didn't want to kill her, then she was leaving. She didn't have time for chit chat, she had things to do. Willow stood and faced Angel.
"Well?"
"Well, what?" Angel asked.
"If you're going to kill me, then do it. Otherwise, I'm leaving."
When Angel didn't respond, Willow turned and began walking away. She had only gone a few steps when Angel grabbed her from behind. With one hand pressed against her stomach, and the other around her throat, Willow knew she had angered him.
"No one walks away from me! I should kill you for that."
"Then do it!" Willow yelled back at him.
Angel pressed Willow more firmly against him. He didn't understand her behavior. She was trying to make him angry so that he'd kill her.
"Why are you so anxious to die?"
"What does it matter? Since when do you take a survey before you kill someone. Just do it!"
Angel spun Willow around so that she faced him. Moving his hand to the back of her neck, he applied pressure until she was forced to look him in the eyes.
"Ah, Willow, you should know, you're not just anyone. Now why don't you tell Uncle Angel what's bothering you."
Willow's fragile hold on her emotions broke when she heard his condescending tone. She'd had enough. Bringing her arms up to his shoulders, she squeezed them at the same time as she brought her knee up to connect with Angel's groin. The surprise of the attack and the pain it caused, dropped Angel to his knees.
"Don't treat me like a child! I am sick and tired of being sweet little Willow. Everyone's friend. Everyone's doormat!"
Angel watched as Willow ran to the swingset. She threw herself into a swing, and just sat there with her head bent. Angel was furious that she'd had the nerve to attack him, but as he stood up, he knew he wouldn't kill her yet. She had shown fire, and he wanted to know why. He walked over to stand beside her, careful to be out of her range.
"You'll have to pay for what you did, you do realize that?"
"So you keep saying. But so far I've seen all bark, and no bite."
Angel's patience was beginning to wear thin. She was purposely annoying him, and was doing a damn good job.
"Then tell me why you want to die, and we can get on with it."
Willow looked at Angel. "Fine. I want Xander to feel pain and guilt. I want him to live with my death on his conscience."
"Why?" Angel asked.
Willow told Angel everything. As Willow was telling the story, she stared off into space. If she had been watching Angel, she would have wondered about the look on his face. She would've wondered about the plan forming in his mind.
Angel waited till Willow had finished her story. He had never liked Xander. The boy had always been a pain in the ass. Lusting after Buffy, then Cordelia. Then obviously Willow, only to throw her over for some tramp. Angel's mind began coming up with all kinds of fun he could have with this situation.
"Don't you think that would be letting him off the hook too easily?"
Willow looked confused, "What do you mean?"
"With you out of the picture, he's free to do what he wants. He may feel guilty, but do you really think that'll last?"
Willow hadn't thought about that. Angel was right. Xander would feel guilty for awhile, then move on. <He'd think I would forgive him.> Willow sat quietly, knowing her death would be in vain.
"There is something else you could do though. A way to make him miserable for a very long time."
"What?"
"I have a plan. I won't kill you, and I'd help you pull this off."
"I don't want him dead." Willow said firmly.
"Neither do I. That wouldn't accomplish anything."
Willow watched Angel closely. He had a devious look on his face. "Why would you want to help me?"
"Let's just say I'm not a fan of Xander's. And I'm bored. I think the two of us could have some fun with this."
Willow sat silently. She knew she should say no, and run like hell. But, a part of her that she had kept buried jumped to life. Willow found herself excited by the thought of turning the tables on Xander. She was ready to break out of her shell. Willow got out of the swing and walked to Angel.
"What did you have in mind?"
Angel smiled at the look of excitement on Willow's face. This was definately going to be a very interesting adventure.
"Let's go back to my place. I'll let you in on all the details."
Willow hesitated only briefly. No more being afraid, she was taking the tiger by the tail. <Look out Xander. You don't know what you're in for.>
End Part 2
Willow stood in Angel's apartment. She wasn't sure what Angel's plan was, but for whatever reason, she wasn't afraid of him.
"Don't you want to sit down?"
Willow shook her head, then turned to face Angel. He seated himself on the edge of the bed, and sat there watching her.
"You were going to tell me about this plan of yours?"
"Impatient, aren't we? Okay, you want Xander to feel pain and guilt, right? How about a little jealousy, anger and fear thrown in for good measure?"
"Go on." Willow stepped closer to Angel.
"Who does Xander hate more then anyone else in the world?"
"You." Willow answered.
"Exactly. Now, despite his recent behavior, he cares about you. Even though he has a crappy way of showing it. So, what would make his life miserable?"
Willow was confused. She wasn't sure what Angel was getting at.
"If you became involved with me." Angel answered his own question.
"But, he wouldn't believe that."
"Of course he will, because we'll give him no choice but to believe it. We'll start out with me being your friend, helping you get through his betrayal. Then we progress it from there."
"What if he doesn't care?"
"He'll care. Just think about it. He's hated me since I first arrived. The way he saw it, I stole Buffy from him. Then I lost my soul, and started terrorizing all of you. Now, he'll watch as the woman he's known his entire life becomes involved with me too."
Willow sat down next to Angel and thought about the plan. It would work, she decided. In his own way, Xander did care about her. And he would worry about her safety and feel guilty once she let him know that he had pushed her into Angel's arms. Then he may even get jealous when she spent more time with Angel. She liked this plan. Xander would feel the same kind of pain he'd caused her.
"Where do we start?"
Angel smiled. "We have a deal?"
"Yes." Willow replied.
"Good, this is going to be fun. First things first, does Xander know you saw him?"
"No, he was too busy." Willow said softly, pain evident in her voice.
"Ok, as soon as he's out of the apartment you get packed and go stay at a hotel. Leave him a note, but don't tell him why you left. Let him worry about it. When he comes to your hotel, lay on the guilt trip. Use all the hurt and anger you felt when you saw him betraying you. Then kick him out. Refuse to see or talk to him. We'll keep that up for a couple weeks, then we'll move into the next phase, which will be letting him know about me....your new best friend. Do you think you can handle facing him without backing down?"
"I won't forget what he did, and I am certainly not going to forgive him. He's hurt me for the last time."
"Good. You can stay here until you're sure he's gone."
They sat on the bed discussing the smaller details of their plan. As morning approached, Willow left to go pack. Angel laid in his bed, with a smirk on his face. He couldn't wait to face Xander, it would be so satisfying to rub his face in the fact that Willow was now with the vampire he hated.
Willow entered her apartment and checked to make sure Xander had left. She walked into the bedroom and stopped as memories of Xander and that woman replayed in her mind. Willow closed her eyes and made herself focus on the plan. She pulled out her suitcases and began packing up her belongings, making sure to leave the dresser drawers pulled open and the closet door open. She wanted to make sure Xander saw that all her stuff was gone. Walking downstairs, Willow packed up her computer and a few other items. She stacked everything outside and went back in to take a final look around. Willow left the short note on the hall table and left the apartment. As she waited outside for the cab, Mrs. Kenzie came up the sidewalk.
"My dear, are you leaving?"
"Yes, Mrs. Kenzie. I can't stay with him after what he did. He destroyed my trust.....and my love."
"I'm so sorry, dear. I worry about you being alone though."
"Please, don't worry about me. I won't be alone. A friend of mine will be there to help me. He helped me make a lot of hard decisions last night."
"Tell him to take good care of you."
The cab arrived and the driver loaded Willow's luggage. Willow hugged the older woman.
"I will. I'll keep in touch. Thanks for everything Mrs. Kenzie."
The elderly woman watched her young friend leave. She hoped Willow would be alright. That Xander boy had never been good enough for her, he didn't deserve someone as sweet as Willow.
Willow sat in her hotel room and waited. Xander should've gotten home an hour ago, unless he'd been out with *her*. She would've loved to see his face when he realized she'd left him. Willow knew Xander would have no trouble finding her. Sunnydale only had one hotel, and she had registered under her own name. Willow turned on the tv and flipped till she found a movie to watch.
An hour later there was a pounding on the door. "Willow! I know you're in there. Open this door."
Willow smiled as she heard Xander's voice. She walked slowly to the door, and forced herself to relive the feelings that he had caused. Willow opened the door and stood looking at Xander. He looked like he had run the entire way there.
"Go away, Xander." Willow said, making sure her voice shook with emotion.
Xander pushed his way into the room, and turned to stare at her. Willow closed the door, and turned. She made no move toward him.
"What the hell is going on? You come home early and don't bother to tell me. Then you leave me a note saying that we're through. What game are you playing?"
"I'm not the one playing games, Xander."
"What's that supposed to mean?"
"I don't want to talk about this now. Please leave."
Willow tried to walk past Xander into the bathroom. He grabbed her arm and turned her to face him. She allowed the tears to start fall.
"Willow, talk to me. What's the matter?"
"YOU!! You're what's the matter." Willow yelled.
"Will, I don't know what this is all about, but I think you're overreacting."
That did it. Willow forgot about the plan and let her emotions lead her. She yanked her arm away from him and shoved him backwards.
"Overreacting?! You screw around behind my back, and you think I'm overreacting! I don't think so, you son-of-a-bitch!"
Xander paled, but tried to cover. "What are you talking about?"
"I saw you! Silly me, I came home early to surprise you and I'm the one who gets the surprise. Finding the man I love in *our* bed with someone else! Then to add insult to injury, I learn you've had her living with you since I left."
"Oh, God, Will. I'm sorry, I never meant...."
"Stop it!! You never meant to get caught. All the time we've known each other, you always assumed I'd forgive you for anything. And I have. I forgave you for my barbie doll, for Buffy, for Cordelia. I always forgave you. But no more! I won't forgive you for this!!"
"You have to let me explain. I never meant for this to happen. She means nothing to me. I love you."
"Well, I'm glad she means nothing to you. It makes me feel so much better that you betrayed me with someone you don't give a damn about. Because that means you don't give a damn about me either. If you did, you would never have betrayed me like this!"
Xander pulled a hysterical Willow into his arms. He stroked her hair, and tried to calm her down. Willow pulled away from him.
"Don't touch me! Get out!"
"I'm not leaving until we talk about this."
"Leave now or I'll call the cops."
Xander took a close look at Willow. Her face was flushed and the tears ran down her face. She looked as though she'd been through hell, and he knew he was the cause. He hadn't thought about how she'd feel if she found out about his affair. He'd been confident that she'd never find out.
"Willow, I never meant to hurt you. We can work this out. You and I have always been able to talk through anything."
"Not this time. Leave."
Xander decided to give Willow time to calm down. He was sure once she had to time to think, she'd realize they belonged together. Then they'd sit down and work things out. And she'd be back home where she should be.
"I'll leave for now, but this isn't over. We'll talk later."
Xander walked out the door, and had it slammed behind him by Willow. He heard the lock click and knew she was angry. As he walked to his car, Xander found himself surprised by Willow's anger. Her pain he understood, but he'd never seen Willow so angry in his life. It might take a bit more sweet talk then usual to settle things this time, but it would be worth it. Then life would get back to normal.
Willow sat on the bed, crying. She hadn't meant to get quite so upset, but his attitude had angered her. If she'd had any doubts about the plan Angel had come up with, Xander had just erased all of them. He acted like she was being overly sensitive. He never even admitted that it had been a mistake.
"You're going to pay Xander. I will make you regret the day you betrayed me. Be warned, Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned!" Willow said calmly to the empty room
Willow went to take a shower. She was determined to see this plan through to the end. Angel had found himself a willing accomplice.
The next few weeks, Willow made sure she avoided all contact with Xander. She refused to have his phone calls put through, and had never answered the door when he came by. She'd even talked to her boss and made sure she never told Xander anything. Willow did all of her work from her hotel room, and left only at night with Angel. They had seen Xander a few times, but had always hid. Xander was getting furious at being ignored, and Angel knew it was time to move into the next phase of the time. It was time for Angel to reveal himself as the new man in Willow's life.
End Part 3
Willow stood outside the Bronze. She wasn't sure she was ready for this.
"Having second thoughts?"
Willow turned to Angel. "No, I'm just nervous. I don't like making a scene, and this is going to turn into a very unpleasant one."
"Which is just what we want. Xander is furious that you refuse to talk to him, but not so upset that he can't go out with his little tart."
"What do you mean?" Willow glared at Angel. He'd never mentioned that before.
"Xander's been to the Bronze almost every night with her. That's why I knew he'd be here tonight."
"Why didn't you tell me?"
"I just did. Now, are you ready to flaunt me in Xander's face?"
Willow took a deep breath, "Let's do it."
Angel wrapped his arm around Willow's waist and they entered the Bronze. His eyes skimmed the crowd until he spotted the little worm. Xander was slow dancing with his 'friend'. Angel led Willow over to one of the tables.
"It shouldn't take him too long to notice us."
Willow didn't respond. Angel turned to see Willow fighting back tears, her eyes glued to the couple on the dance floor. Angel reached across and turned her to face him.
"Are you going to be able to go through with this?"
"The whole point of this is to make him feel guilty, right? Well, seeing me cry with help with that. And you don't have to worry about me backing down, I'm tougher then I look."
The song ended and Xander turned, but stopped suddenly. He couldn't believe what he saw. After telling his date to go sit down, he walked over to Willow. His anger at seeing Willow out with Angel, was mingled with fear for her safety.
"What the hell do you think you're doing?"
Willow stared at him defiantly, refusing to speak to him. She moved her chair closer to Angel. Angel responded by putting his arm around her shoulders. The movement had its desired effect, as Xander's expression went from anger to jealousy.
"Hello, boy. I don't recall inviting you over here."
"What rock did you crawl out from under?" Xander asked sarcastically.
"That really hurt. Now why don't you leave. You're upsetting Willow."
Xander turned to Willow and saw the tears in her eyes. He also saw how she leaned into Angel. What the hell was going on? For weeks she refused to see him, but here she was acting friendly with their worst enemy.
"Willow, what are you doing with him?"
"He's my friend." Willow whispered.
"Your friend!? What the hell's the matter with you? Don't you remember who...no, what he is?"
"At least he's honest about what he's after....unlike some people."
"God, Willow, don't tell me you're with him to get back at me. Shit, how stupid is that! He's a killer, Willow."
Willow stood and stared at Xander. "Shut up! Why does everything have to be about you? He was there for me when I needed a friend. Angel has been nothing but nice to me."
"I don't believe this. You're losing it Will. I'm taking you home now!" Xander grabbed Willow's arm.
Angel stood and shoved Xander backwards. Pulling Willow into his arms, he glared at Xander.
"I wouldn't do that again. I get extremely pissed when someone messes with my friends."
"I don't know what you're trying to pull, but I won't let you hurt Willow."
"I'm not the one who hurt her. You are! Willow, wait for me at the door."
Willow glanced up at Angel, then to Xander. She nodded and walked toward the front door.
"Willow!" Xander yelled. When he attempted to follow her, he found himself nose to nose with Angel.
"I'm only going to tell you this once. Stay away from Willow."
"I don't know what you've done to her, but it won't last. She'll see through your deception soon enough."
Angel stared at the boy. He couldn't believe Xander's nerve. Here his best friend, the woman he claimed to love, was involved with a killer, and the boy saw it as a contest.
"You're certainly one to talk about deception. You claim to love Willow, but then you screw around when she's gone. She's been your best friend since you were children, and you still hurt her. I may be a killer, but at least I don't pretend to be someone I'm not."
"I'll get Willow back, we belong together. You better just go crawl back into your hole."
"I don't think so. Willow's got a new man in her life, and he treats her better then you ever did. He treats her with the respect she deserves. You had your chance with her, and you blew it."
Angel turned to leave. Xander grabbed his arm.
"What man? Willow's not involved with anyone."
Angel yanked his arm away from Xander, and gave him a look that sent shivers down Xander's spine.
"Yes, she is. She's found a real man."
"Who?" Xander asked.
"Me." Angel said as he walked out, leaving Xander standing open-mouthed.
"NO!!" Xander ran after Angel, but they had already left.
"It can't be, she wouldn't let him touch her. He's lying, and I have to get Willow away from him." Xander said to himself.
Xander ran to his car, and headed to Willow's hotel. He had to talk to her and make her listen to reason. In his anger over Angel's words, Xander completely forgot about his date.
End Part 4
Willow and Angel entered her hotel room. They had gone back to Angel's apartment after leaving the Bronze, and waited there till nearly sunrise. Then had gone back to her hotel. The desk clerk had told them that Xander had been by nearly every hour.
"Now he's probably searching the city looking for you. It shouldn't be too long before he comes back here. By that time he'll have worked himself up into a frenzy."
"So, what do we do when he gets here?"
Angel went over to the bed and began messing up the sheets. Then he took off his shirt.
"What are you doing?" Willow asked, unable to look away from him.
"Getting ready for our visitor. Do you have something sexy to put on?"
Without waiting for Willow's answer, Angel began going through her clothes. He finally found a short nightshirt.
"This will have to do. Go put this on." Angel handed Willow the shirt, then began unbuttoning his pants.
"I don't know about this."
"What? You don't want lover boy to think you have a lover, or you don't want him to think you're doing it with a vampire?" Angel asked angrily.
"That's not it. I don't know if I can be convincing."
"Why not? You're not a virgin."
"But the only man I've ever been with is Xander."
Angel stared at her in shock. He hadn't expected that answer. Angel walked over to Willow and pulled her into his arms. He gripped her neck and kissed her passionately. When he ended the kiss, Willow looked at him breathlessly.
"You can be convincing Willow. All you need is practice."
Angel kissed Willow again, while his hands moved over her body. Willow couldn't even think about resisting, her mind had gone blank. Her hands seemed to move over his body with a mind of their own. When his hands gripped her ass, pulling her against him, she felt a desire she hadn't known before. Angel broke the kiss, but kept his arms around Willow.
"That will have to do for now. Once he gets here, just follow my lead. Now, go get changed."
Several moments later, Willow came out of the bathroom dressed in the nightshirt. Angel was in bed, covered up to his waist with the sheet. She tried not to think about the fact that Angel was completely naked under that sheet. Shyly she walked to the bed, and got in on the other side. Then laid with her back to Angel.
Angel watched Willow walk to the bed. He had never really looked at her before, but he found he liked what he saw. She had grown into a beautiful young woman. Sex had never entered his mind when he came up with this plan, but after that kiss, it was all he could think of. She had responded to him with a passion that he wanted to explore further. Angel decided that he'd show her exactly what she'd been missing. After all, the only lover she'd ever had was Xander. Angel laughed to himself, thinking about how inept the boy probably was in that department.
Pounding on the door broke the silence that filled the room. Angel sat up and looked over at Willow. Her hair was tousled and she was already blushing. Angel leaned over and kissed her roughly on the lips.
"Now you look well-loved. Stay here."
Angel stood up and grabbed his jeans. He pulled them on but left them unbuttoned. He turned and gave Willow a sexy smile before answering the door.
"Willow, I....." Xander's sentenced died as he saw who answered the door.
"Do you have any idea what time it is? People are trying to sleep, especially those of us who've had an exhausting evening." Angel said.
The implication of his comment wasn't lost on Xander. Before he even thought about it, Xander brought his fist up and punched Angel, then pushed his way into the room. His gaze immediately fell to Willow, who was kneeling on the bed, a sheet covering her. Xander looked from Angel, who had stood and was smiling like a damn cat, to Willow. He didn't believe what Angel had said, but seeing Willow on the bed made him realize the truth. His sweet Willow had screwed Angel!
"You little slut! How could you?"
Willow flinched as though she'd been hit. The smile immediately left Angel's face, and it took all his self-control not to snap Xander's neck like a twig.
"My promise to Willow is the only thing keeping you alive. I suggest you get the hell out of here before I break that promise."
Xander ignored Angel's threat, and moved toward Willow.
"My God, I loved you and this is how you return that!"
Willow stared at the man who had been by her side since they were children, and she didn't like what she saw. Wrapping the sheet around her, Willow left the bed and walked over to stand right in front of Xander.
"Go to hell, Xander. I won't let you hurt me anymore. You claim to love me, but then you have an affair. And you have the balls to call me names. Being with Angel has opened my eyes. You don't love me, you need me. Ever since we were children, you needed me to be your cheerleader. To tell you how wonderful you are, how special. It never mattered what you did, I was always there to defend you, make you feel better. But were you ever there to make me feel better? No. It's over Xander, I won't be you're defender anymore. For once in my life, I want someone to be my defender."
"And you think dead-boy is your defender? Please. I thought you had more brains then that, Willow. At first I thought he was trying to get back at me, but now I know what he was really after. A piece of ass!"
Willow slapped Xander across the face. She couldn't control the tears that fell down her cheeks.
"Truth hurts, doesn't it Willow. Now that he's gotten what he wants, he'll either take off or kill you. And you'll realize how badly you've messed up. I just hope you'll live to regret the choices you've made."
"Get out!!" Willow screamed.
Angel, who had stood silently watching the exchange, decided it was time to get in his fun. He approached Xander from behind and grabbed him by the neck.
"You heard the lady. Get out while I'm still in the mood to let you leave."
Xander walked to the door. "This isn't over, Willow."
"I think it is." Angel said as he slammed the door in Xander's face. He turned to see Willow collapse on the bed.
"Are you okay?"
Willow didn't answer. Angel went over to the bed and pulled Willow into his arms. He had watched her take that idiot's insults and still face him with her chin held high. She had gained his respect. Now the emotions and stress of the past weeks, along with tonight's abuse, had taken her to an emotional overload. Angel stroked Willow's hair and let her cry until she finally cried herself to sleep. Angel laid her back on the bed and covered her.
As Angel watched her sleep, he thought about what would happen. He knew that Xander wouldn't just vanish from Willow's life, he'd be back. Angel had promised that he wouldn't kill the little bastard, but there were other ways to destroy a man. And it had already started, Angel had taken Willow away from him. The next step would be to knock down Xander's self-esteem. Angel smiled as he watched Willow. She would be the key to Xander's destruction.
End Part 5
After leaving the hotel, Xander found himself walking around town. He was so angry he couldn't even think straight. How dare she betray him like that? And with Angel! Ever since Angel first arrived, he'd been a thorn in Xander's side. First he had taken Buffy, and now Willow. Damn him to Hell!
Xander walked into his apartment and listened to his messages. There were several from Natalie, yelling at him for abandoning her at the Bronze. She had become a royal pain lately, and he knew the time had come to end the relationship. As he turned, he knocked over a picture. Picking it up, he saw it was a picture of him and Willow. Taken shortly after graduation, they looked so happy together. Staring at the photo, Xander knew that he wanted her back. He would forgive her for her indiscretion, and they would rebuild their lives. But first, he had to get her away from Angel. Xander was certain Angel had somehow forced Willow to betray him. And Xander was determined to rescue Willow from her own stupidity. He would be the protector that she wanted. Xander went upstairs to shower, and get some sleep. He would need all his wits when he faced Angel.
Angel sat on the bed, waiting for Willow to come out of the bathroom. As soon as the sun set, they had packed up Willow's belongings and moved them to Angel's apartment. Angel told her it was the next phase of the plan. Xander already thought they'd slept together, now he would learn that they had moved in together. Xander had already seen Angel replace him as Willow's friend, and replace him in her bed. The message being that Xander no longer had any place in Willow's life.
Willow walked out of the bathroom and stopped. Angel was sitting on the bed watching her. She had been scared about moving in with him, but knew she had come too far to back out now.
"Everything is going pretty well, don't you think?"
"I guess so."
Angel walked over to Willow. He touched her cheek and felt her shiver. Angel smiled as his hand trailed down her neck.
"You don't sound too convinced."
"How long do we keep this up?" Willow asked.
"As long as it takes to get the message through his thick skull. Now you need to relax."
Angel turned her around and began massaging her neck. Willow felt herself begin to relax, and leaned back into Angel's hands. Angel lowered his mouth to Willow's neck and began kissing her. His hands dropped to her waist and moved to her stomach. Gently, he pulled her back against him.
"What are you doing?" Willow asked lazily.
"Showing you what a real man is like."
Angel turned Willow to face him. He captured her lips in a kiss as her arms wrapped around his neck. All thoughts of Xander left their minds as they touched and kissed each other. Angel carried her to the bed, where he began a seduction that shook Willow to her core. They lost themselves in the passion of the moment, and made love all night long. Both experienced things they'd never known before. What had started out as a game, had turned very real. And they both reeled from the pleasure of the experience.
Angel leaned over Willow, and pushed a strand of hair out of her face. She had been an uninhibited lover, and he had experienced sensations he'd thought were long gone. He didn't let himself think of her with that stupid boy. Angel knew that Xander hadn't been able to excite Willow as he had. Besides, there was no way in hell he'd ever let Xander touch her again. She was his now, whether she knew it or not.
Willow woke to find Angel watching her. Memories of the night before brought a blush to her face. She never knew sex could be so earthshattering. With Xander, it had been gentle and sweet, but nothing like what she'd experienced with Angel. Willow was somewhat embarrased by her actions, she'd never behaved like that before.
"Morning." Angel said seductively.
"Morning."
Angel leaned down and kissed Willow. His hand moved down her body.
"You aren't having second thoughts about last night, are you?"
"No." Willow whispered.
"Good, because I think we'll be repeating it quite often."
Willow blushed at his words, but noticed her hands were gripping his shoulders. She was looking forward to a repeat performance.
Willow watched Angel disappear into the bathroom. She dropped her head onto her knees. When had everything changed? The whole purpose of this was to hurt Xander, but now it was beginning to look like she was on her way to being the one hurt again. Because, sometime during the last few weeks, she'd begun falling in love with Angel. <Not Angel.....Angelus.> Willow knew that she was setting herself up for another fall. But she also knew she was powerless to stop it.
End Part 6
Xander was pacing his apartment nervously. He had just come back from the hotel and learned that Willow had checked out. He had tried every place he could think of to look, and he was becoming scared. Xander had a sick feeling that wherever she was, she was with Angel. This was the only time he wished he had payed closer attention to where Angel went, then he'd know where he lived. Xander knew he hadn't taken her back to the mansion, so it had to be his apartment. Wherever the hell that was. Damnit, it wasn't supposed to play out like this. What was Willow thinking? A noise in the hallway caught his attention. Xander opened the door and saw his elderly neighbor.
"Hi, Mrs. Kenzie."
The woman gave him a look that would've made a vampire run for cover. She didn't acknowledge him, but continued down the hallway.
"Mrs. Kenzie, have you heard from Willow?"
"If I had, do you really think I would tell you? After the way you've treated her, I don't even want to talk to you."
Xander raced to catch up to the woman. He should've figured Willow had told their neighbor about what happened. And he'd bet money that Mrs. Kenzie knew where Willow was.
"This has all been a misunderstanding. I love Willow, she knows that."
"Do you? I don't think you know what love is, young man."
"Look, I know how much you care about Willow, but if you know where she is, you have to tell me. I think she may be in trouble."
"Angel will protect her." Mrs. Kenzie added.
"But he's the trouble. You don't know what he's capable of, he'll hurt Willow."
"He seemed like a very nice young man, and he's been a godsend for Willow since she found out the truth about you."
"You've met Angel?" Xander asked surprised.
"Of course. Now if you don't mind, I have things to do."
Xander grabbed the womans arm, and turned her to face him.
"You don't know what you're talking about. He's done nothing but hurt us for years, and now he's taking advantage of Willow. I need to get her away from him. Can't you understand that I'm scared for her?"
"I understand that you're scared of losing her to another man. I realize I don't know much about Angel, but I know Willow is comfortable with him and cares for him. That's all I need to know. And as for you, you're certainly not one to talk. You have done nothing but hurt and take advantage of that sweet girl since I first met you both."
"That's not true. Willow has been my best friend since we were children. We've been through alot together."
"I know that. It's probably part of the reason you treat her like you do. You are sure that she'll always be there for you no matter what you do, because she's been there all your life. I've seen the way you treat Willow, like a faithful puppy. Always there when you need her. But let me give you a little advice, even the most loyal puppy will eventually run away from an abusive home."
"I've never abused Willow!"
Mrs. Kenzie looked sadly at the boy. "Maybe not physically, but there are other types of abuse. For once, think about Willow's feelings. Leave her alone."
Xander watched the woman leave. She didn't understand any of this. Angel had obviously used his charm to get into her good graces. And as for what she said about abusing Willow, that was crazy. <I'd never do anything to hurt my Willow.> As Xander walked back to his apartment, he ignored the little voice that told him that was exactly what he'd done.
Willow was lying in bed trying to straighten out her thoughts. The things Xander had said and done kept replaying in her head. When had he become so selfish? As memories from her childhood played through her mind, she began seeing a pattern she'd never noticed before. Had never allowed herself to notice, she corrected herself.
"What are you thinking about so intensely?"
Willow turned to look at Angel. They had settled into a routine, and she couldn't complain about Angel's behavior. She had never once feared for her safety. Her heart maybe, but not her life.
"Just trying to make sense of Xander's attitude."
Angel laughed as he sat up and leaned against the headboard. He pulled Willow into his arms, and settled her against his chest.
"Good luck on that one. Sense has never entered into that idiot's life. He's always been a selfish boy, only caring about himself."
"That isn't true. He's always looked out for me." Willow automatically defended Xander.
"Isn't it? I think you know I'm right. Since I've known him, everything he's done has been for himself. And the things he did to 'protect' you, were for a selfish reason. He needs you to make him feel like a real man, so he did what was necessary to keep you with him. Your idol worship of him is what makes him feel important."
Willow thought about that. She knew that Angel was only confirming what she'd already begun to suspect. That her entire relationship with Xander had been a lie. Maybe everything would've worked out differently if they had just remained friends, they would've gone on like always. But, they had changed to a romance, and that had taken the blinders off of Willow. She'd never be able to look at Xander the same way again.
"So, what happens now?" Willow asked.
"We continue the same way we have been. Now it's just a matter of acting normally. He's lost the one thing that kept his world in order....you. As long as you don't cave and go back to him, we've already won."
"Does that mean the plan is done?"
"Pretty much." Angel replied cryptically.
Willow fought the tears that threatened to fall. She knew this time was coming, but she hadn't thought it'd happen so soon.
"Then I guess I better start looking for a place to live."
"What the hell are you talking about? You have a place to live. Here." Angel said angrily.
"But that was only to aid in the plan."
Angel pulled Willow up to face him. "To hell it was! You are staying here."
"I don't understand." Willow whispered.
"I didn't get you away from that idiot to sit back and watch you walk right back to him."
"I won't. That's over, I've learned my lesson. Xander and I will never be together again."
"Damn right you won't. You are staying here with me."
"For how long?" Willow asked.
"Forever." Angel answered.
Willow couldn't respond, she wasn't sure what was going on. But, when Angel pressed her into the bed and began kissing and caressing her, she didn't care. For whatever reason, Angel wanted her to stay with him. And that was what she wanted too. She responded hungrily to his kisses and melted into his embrace.
Angel watched Willow sleep and smiled. His plan had gone better then he'd imagined. He was making Xander's life miserable and he had Willow in his bed. Things were definately going well. And the best was yet to come. His face-to-face meeting with Xander would be his masterpiece. Angel just loved mind games.
End Part 7
The sound of the phone ringing woke Xander up from a deep sleep. He reached over to answer the phone.
"ello?"
"Hope I'm not interrrupting anything, Harris."
"Angel!" Xander sat straight up in bed.
"Got it on the first try, good boy. Are you alone?"
"What kind of question is that? Of course I'm alone. Where's Willow?"
"Sleeping peacefully, not that it's any business of yours."
"Why are you calling Angel? What do you want?"
"I want to meet you. We have things to talk about." Angel answered.
"I have nothing to say to you dead-boy!"
"Even if it's about Willow?" Angel taunted.
"What have you done to her?"
"Meet me in the park in 15 minutes and maybe I'll tell you."
"If you've hurt her, you son-of-a-......"
"Now, now, such language. 15 minutes." Angel said, then hung up.
"Damn." Xander threw on some clothes and ran to the park. He would kill Angel if he had dared to hurt Willow.
Angel sat on the picnic table, and waited. He'd waited until Willow was asleep before leaving to meet Xander. He didn't want her to know about it. And if she happened to wake up while he was gone, he knew she'd assume he'd gone out to feed. This meeting was between him and Xander.
Angel heard Xander before he actually saw him. <Stupid boy hasn't learned anything in all these years.>
"Hello Harris."
"Where's Willow? What have you done with her?" Xander yelled.
Angel just stared at Xander, a cruel smirk on his face. <Let the fun begin.>
"She's at home, sleeping. I believe I told you that on the phone."
"Home?" Xander questioned.
"My place. That's her home now."
"I don't believe you. You've done something to her."
"Such melodramatics. I can assure you she's fine. Just exhausted. But then, so am I. So we'll have to keep this short."
"Is she sick?"
"Of course not. Making love all night tends to zap the energy out of a person, especially one as passionate as Willow."
"You bastard!!" Xander yelled as he attacked Angel.
Angel easily deflected the attack, sending Xander to the ground. He stood with his arms crossed, staring down at the boy.
"That wasn't too bright, Harris."
"I'll kill you for this!"
"For what exactly? For taking Willow away from you? Or maybe for making her feel things you never could." Angel taunted.
"Because you raped her! You hurt Willow to get back at me, and for that I'll kill you."
"You could try, but your chance of success isn't too good. Besides, I didn't rape Willow. I've never had to resort to rape to get a woman into bed."
"You're lying." Xander said quietly.
"I suppose if it feels better to think that, you can go right ahead. But, it doesn't change the truth. Willow is mine now. You are no longer a part of her life, do you understand that? She lives in *my* home, and sleeps in *my* bed! She's no longer yours."
"Why are you doing this? You don't give a damn about Willow."
"How the hell do you know what I feel? You don't anything about me."
"I know that you're a sadistic killer. You have been tormenting us for years and now you're picking up where you left off."
Angel grabbed Xander and slammed him against the jungle gym. He was tempted to drain the punk right there, but he got control. Killing Xander would end the game too quickly. Angel wanted Xander to live. He wanted him to live everyday of his life knowing that Angel had Willow.
"This was a warning Harris. It's taking every ounce of control I have not to kill you right now. You can thank Willow for your life, because she's the only thing keeping you alive." Angel threatened.
"Do you think I'll just sit back and watch you use Willow? I won't rest until we're both free of you."
Angel stared at the mortal in front of him. The fool hadn't yet realized that he'd lost. And he hadn't realized what exactly he'd lost. Xander would realize eventually that when he lost Willow, he'd lost everything that was good in his life.
"You're a fool, Harris. You had everything you could've wished for, but you threw it away on some cheap tramp. Don't think I'll make the same mistake. I have Willow now, and I keep what's mine. She's always deserved better then you."
Angel turned to leave, but Xander shouted after him.
"And how long do you think Willow will stay with you? You kill people, for God's sake. Do you really think Willow can overlook that? She'll remember soon enough what you are, and she'll leave you. Then what are you going to do? Kill her?"
"I told you before, what happens with Willow is no longer any of your business. You aren't to go anywhere near her again. You think I'm such a monster, you should look in a mirror. At least my victims knew what to expect from me. I never claimed to be anything I wasn't."
Xander opened his mouth but Angel's next words stopped him.
"Don't say anything to make you look even more stupid. Willow has nothing to fear from me, she knows that. She accepts what I am, and I protect her. Willow doesn't fear me, she fears you. You are the one who's hurt her over and over again, and your actions have left scars."
"You don't know anything about Willow! She's a big part of my life---my best friend and my lover--you can't destroy that. She won't let you."
"I don't have to destroy that. You did it yourself. And as for her part in your life, it's over. I'm the one she comes to when she's hurting or happy; and I'm the one who shares her bed. Go back to your tramp, she's all you've got left."
Xander watched in horror as Angel's words sank in. Angel had slept with Willow, and obviously not just the one time. And it was obvious that Angel had some kind of hold over Willow. Xander tried to follow Angel but lost sight of him.
As Xander walked home, he refused to think about Willow with Angel. Xander knew if he could get her alone, he'd be able to reason with Willow. Then he'd be the one able to smirk and rub it in Angel's face.
End part 8
Angel entered his apartment to find Willow sitting in a chair, watching him. He started to unbutton his shirt, and turned his back to her.
"Is he still alive?"
"Who?" Angel questioned.
"Xander. That's where you've been, isn't it? You went after Xander."
Angel turned, surprised that Willow had known what he was up to.
"He's alive. I just wanted to have a little talk with him. Besides, I told you I wouldn't kill him."
"So, why did you go to see him? What could the two of you possibly have to talk about?" Willow asked.
"I just made it clear to him that his presence was no longer welcomed in your life."
"And what gave you that right? Who are you to decide what I do with my life?"
Angel pulled Willow into his arms and pressed her against the wall.
"I'm the man who makes you feel passion you've never known, who's been there for you during the worst months of your life. I'm the man you've fallen in love with!"
Willow's eyes opened wide in shock. She hadn't realized that he knew how she felt.
Angel's hold loosened and he carefully stroked Willow's hair. "I'm not an oblivious fool, like Harris. I see the way you feel about me."
"So what do you intend to do about it? Use it against me like you did with Buffy."
"Careful little one, you're stepping on dangerous ground. As for what I intend to do, it should be obvious. I intend to keep you with me. Drive you crazy with my lovemaking. You're mine, and you always will be."
"And if I don't want to be yours?" Willow asked defiantely.
"You do, I can see it in your eyes."
"Kind of cocky, aren't you? I admit that I've fallen in love with you, but I won't allow you to control my life. I learned my lesson with Xander."
"I don't intend to control your life. You can go about your day as usual, but your nights are mine."
"What about Xander? When you went to talk to him, you were trying to control my life." Willow pointed out.
"No, I wasn't. I was controlling his by showing him what he had lost."
"By playing mind games with him. Deliberately rubbing our relationship in his face, right?"
Angel actually turned away. Damn, she was getting to know him too well.
Willow reached out for Angel's face, and turned him to face her. He was such a contradiction that she had a hard time figuring him out. But, one thing she knew was that he'd been her rock the past few months. Her hand gently stroked his cheek.
"I need to talk to Xander. Alone."
"No way!" Angel yelled.
"Listen to me. If I don't face him, and confront my feelings for him, he'll always be there. In the back of my mind, I'll always wonder. To be free of him, I have to face him."
"And if he convinces you to return to him?" Angel asked.
"That won't happen. But I have to be the one to tell him that he's part of my past. Besides, you know he won't accept anything you said. You have to trust me to do this on my own. I've given you my trust, now I'm asking for yours."
Angel looked at the woman in front of him. She had turned out to be a more complex woman then he had ever imagined. There was part of her that was fragile, but she also had a strength that had made him respect her. He wasn't real big on trust, but he knew he could trust her. It was an unusual feeling for him.
"Fine, I won't stand in your way."
"Thank you."
Angel carried Willow to bed. By the time the sun rose, he had no doubts that she would return to him. His plan had been to brand her, make her realize she belonged to him and him alone. And he had succeeded, except that she had branded him too. She had gotten beyond his defenses, and found a place to call her own. They fell asleep in each other's arms.
Later that morning, Angel awoke to find Willow dressed. She looked so young and innocent. He was reminded of the time he'd first met her. She'd always been the one to defend him. Angel also remembered the things he'd done to her after losing his soul. And yet she had trusted him when they met in the park. She was a remarkable woman.
"Where are you going?"
"To see Xander. I called him earlier."
Seeing the look on Angel's face, Willow sat down next to him on the bed.
"I won't be gone long, but you know I have to do this."
Angel nodded and watched as Willow left. He got dressed and sat in the chair. Angel knew he wouldn't be able to sleep, knowing that Willow was with Xander.
Willow knocked on the apartment door and could hear Xander running around inside.
"Willow, thank God. Come in."
Willow entered and looked around the apartment. Nothing had changed since she left, but it no longer felt like her home. She had a new life now, and the sooner she got this over with, the sooner she could get back to it.
"Xander, we need to talk."
End Part 9
"How did you get away from Angel?"
"I didn't get away from him. I told him that I needed to talk to you and he respected my decision. He wasn't too happy about it, but he knew it was something I had to do."
"Willow, you can't mean that you intend to go back to him?"
"That's exactly what I plan to do, but you and I need to talk first. We need to clear the air so that we're both free to move on."
Xander sat on the couch watching Willow. He had never seen her as calm as she was at that moment.
"I don't want to be free. I want you back, Willow. Don't you think I realize that I made a mistake with Natalie? I know I did, and it's over. We can go back to the way things were."
Willow shook her head. "No, we can't. You know that. This isn't just about your affair. Although I won't say that it didn't hurt. When I came home and saw you, it nearly destroyed me. You can't imagine what I felt. But, that incident took my blinders off. I see things more clearly now then I ever did before."
"I don't know what you're talking about. Willow, I made a mistake. I know I hurt you, and I'll do whatever it takes to make it up to you."
"You're not getting this Xander. It's over, you can't make it up to me. And I can't forgive and forget anymore. For once and for all, this needs to end. *We* need to end."
Xander jumped up and grabbed Willow by the shoulders. "This isn't you talking, this is Angel. He's poisoned you against me."
"No, Xander. Our problems began before Natalie, before Angel. And I'm as much to blame as you are. I loved you so much that I was willing to forgive you anything. I was content as long as I could be with you, even when the things you did hurt me. You stopped thinking about how I would react to things you did, because I'd shown you that I would be there no matter what. That wasn't healthy for either of us. And I can't do it anymore."
"What are you saying? You're going to give up twenty years of friendship over a mistake?" Xander yelled.
"Xander, please don't make this harder then it already is. We need time away from each other. I can't be your Willow anymore. It hurts too much."
"So you go jump into bed with Angelus!"
"This is exactly what I'm talking about. As soon as I do something you don't like, you turn it around to try to make me feel guilty about it."
"All the talk about my betrayal and how much I hurt you, and then you run to our worst enemy. I never thought you could be this stupid Willow."
Willow sadly shook her head, and walked to the door. Without turning to face him, Willow ended the conversation.
"I didn't want this to turn into a childish argument, flinging insults back and forth. I can't make you understand what you've done to me over the years, only you can do that. Despite everything, I love you Xander Harris. Good or bad, you are a part of my life, but it's a part I have to let go of. I hope someday you'll understand what I've tried to tell you. Goodbye, Xander."
Xander watched as Willow walked out of the apartment. And he knew that she was walking out of his life. How had things gotten so screwed up?
Willow saw Angel as soon as she entered the apartment. She walked over and sat in his lap. Willow let the tears fall, as she silently said goodbye to a part of her life. Angel stroked Willow's back, not saying anything. There would be time for questions later .
Several days later, Xander left a letter with Mrs. Kenzie. After seeing him, she agreed to give it to Willow. He needed to get away from Sunnydale for awhile, to think about the things Willow had said. Xander still didn't want to believe the things that Willow had said. He had always cared for her, protected her from danger. But, he couldn't get rid of the voice in his head that said he was a selfish bastard. Time away from his lifelong home would help him sort through everything. He still feared for Willow's safety, since he didn't trust Angel. But, a part of him knew she'd be safe. Willow was stronger then she looked. And with a new determination, Xander Harris left Sunnydale.
Willow read the letter Xander left. She felt a twinge of sadness that he had left Sunnydale, but she knew it was for the best. Xander wasn't a cruel person, he just never realized how much his actions affected others. Willow hoped that the time away would help him make peace with himself. She had gotten her revenge, now she just wanted him to be happy.
"Everything okay?"
Willow looked up from the letter. Who would've thought that she'd be in this situation. In love with a vampire who had tried to kill her. Neither of them understood the relationship, but they had built trust. She didn't know if Angel loved her or not, she wasn't even sure he knew how to love. But, she knew he cared about her and would protect her. That was good enough for now.
"Xander's gone." Willow handed Angel the letter and he read it slowly. He said nothing, only nodded his head. Then he walked over and got ready for bed.
Willow watched Angel closely. She could see he was trying hard not to smirk. And although she didn't know where their relationship was headed, she felt secure in the knowledge that Angel would always be honest with her. She may not like his answers all the time, but he'd promised to never lie to her.
Willow joined Angel in the bed and curled up against him. His arms slid protectively around her.
"I love you, Angel."
Angel kissed Willow on the forehead, but said nothing. Willow cuddled against his side and fell asleep.
"Goodnight, Willow." Angel said as he tightened his hold on the woman in his arms.
The lovers slept, secure in the knowledge that both of them knew where their relationship stood at that moment. But only time would tell if they stayed together, or got torn apart.
THE END!