Rating: NC-17 If not legally considered an adult, do not read!
Summary: Angelus sees a different side to Willow.
Distribution: TPWFLD; Angel of Mine; otherwise please ask.
Disclaimer: Angelus, Willow, and the gang don't belong to me. They belong to Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy. No copyright infringement intended. The dancers are fictional, but I named them for some great gals.
Author Notes: This story takes place about 5 years in the future. Angelus never regained his soul, but Buffy did leave town.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Angelus sat in the smokey room, not even paying attention to the stage. He'd come to the club only to find his next meal. It was so much easier to follow a drunk outside, then to deal with the police who had stepped up patrols lately. A seriel killer on the loose had really cut into Angelus' hunting.
The club was a dive, full of drunken men. The booze was only part of the reason they came here, the main draw was the entertainment on center stage. Angelus had seen enough to not be impressed. Angelus stood to leave, having spotted a likely kill just leaving the club. The announcer's words stopped him. Curious, Angelus turned back to the stage.
"Do you believe in vampires? The picture of innocence, she will entrance you. Cover your necks, and welcome.......Vampiress!"
The stage went dark, and smoke began rising. The music started, and a figure in black appeared on stage. The woman began moving to the music, and slowly removed the hood that covered her face. Her red hair fell across her shoulders, as she began her erotic dance.
Angelus stared in amazement. The woman looked like Willow, except that wasn't possible. Angelus moved his way closer to the stage, but stopped when the woman's eyes met his. A slight miscue during her dance was the only indication that she had seen him.......and knew who he was. Angelus sat at the table closest to the stage, and watched Willow move her body. He had never dreamed that Willow would ever be sexy. He saw with his own eyes how wrong he'd been.
As the music ended, Willow dropped to the floor, her head pressing against the stage. The audience applauded wildly, and Willow stood up. Grabbing her cloak, she gave Angelus a final look then left the stage. Angelus sat in his chair, curiosity keeping him there.
"She got to you, huh?"
Angelus turned to the woman who sat down next to him. Judging by her clothing, she must've been one of the dancers.
"I'm an old friend of hers. Who are you?" Angelus asked.
"A friend of hers. My name's Lore. She's waiting for you, out in the alley."
"She wants to see me? Why?"
"Didn't you say she was an old friend?" Lore asked.
Angelus stood to leave, but Lore put a hand out to grasp his arm. "Don't hurt her."
"What?"
"She's been through enough to last her a life time. We won't stand by and watch anyone else hurt her."
Angelus watched Lore walk away, confused by her comments. He'd just have to question Willow.
"And now, the time for action. Forget turtles and rangers....get ready for Ninja Lore!"
Angelus watched the woman step onto center stage and begin dancing, but he was also aware of her gaze on him as he left the room. He walked through the back hallway that Lore had pointed out to him. He hadn't gone far when he was stopped by another dancer.
"This is a private area."
"I'm looking for Willow. That other girl told me Willow was waiting for me."
The girl watched him closely, then pointed him to the doorway. "We're watching you."
"And who are you?" Angelus asked.
"Carrie. Just remember what I said." With a final look, Carrie walked away.
Angelus shook his head, he had no idea what was going on. Why was Willow hanging out in a place like this? When had she left Sunnydale?
Angelus pushed open the door, and stepped into the alley. He say Willow leaning against the side of the building, talking to two other dancers. They all looked up when they heard him. Angelus walked towards the group, and noticed the cold stares the two dancers gave him.
"Hello, Angelus."
"Willow. Surprise seeing you here."
"Are you sure about this, Willow?" One of the dancers asked.
"I'll be fine, Cara. You and Beth go on. I'll talk to you later."
Beth and Cara nodded, but Angelus could tell they weren't happy with the situation. He waited till they had gone back inside to talk to Willow.
"You want to tell me what's going on here?" Angelus asked.
"I don't know what you mean. It would be best if you left this place, and forgot you ever saw me."
"Why? What are you hiding?"
"I'm not the Willow you knew. Things change. Go back where you came from Angelus. Forget about me and this place."
Willow started to walk past him, but Angelus pulled her into his arms. Willow's hands gripped his shoulders, and she looked into his eyes.
"I don't think so. You've become a mystery, Willow. And it's one I intend to solve." Angelus gripped Willow's neck, pulling her into his kiss. The kiss was like nothing she'd ever experienced, but she pushed Angelus away.
Angelus saw her look between him, and the club. Then she backed up, and entered the club. Angelus leaned against the building, and ran his fingers over his lips. A smirk came to his face when he thought about his first kiss with Willow. Then he walked away, knowing he'd be back the next night.
"What are we going to do about him?" Peri asked.
"Nothing, for now. He's the first man Willow's shown any interest in, and that's a good sign. But, if he hurts her, we'll have to get rid of him." Kim said.
"Do you think he'll be a threat to us?" Renee asked.
"No, but I won't take the chance. Send Paula and Summer to follow him. I want to know everything he does. Call A.J and tell her I want to know about his past."
The girls hurried off, while Kim stayed in the alley. There was something strange about Angelus, and she'd find out what it was.
"Willow's gone home." Pam said, entering the alley.
"How was she?" Kim asked.
"Ok, I guess. She seemed a little flustered. Whoever that guy is, he has an affect on her."
"Good. It's about time someone did."
Angelus had doubled back to the alley, and had listened in to the conversation. There was something odd about those women, but he didn't know what. He'd definately have to watch his back. But right now the only thing on his mind was Willow.
End Part 1
The next night, Angelus was back at the club. As soon as he entered, he was aware of the looks he received from the dancers he'd seen last night. {What's their problem? Why are they so damn suspicious?}
Angelus sat at a table close to the stage, and watched the woman dancing. She was moving erotically with a huge snake wrapped around her body. While she seemed to be into her dance, Angelus saw her watching him.
"You back again?"
Angelus turned to see Lore sit down next to him. She crossed her arms across her chest, and watched him.
"Why the sudden interest in what I do?"
"We're just watching out for our friend. Why exactly are you here?" Lore asked.
"I think that's between Willow and I. Is that why you've got those two following me? Because you're worried about what I might do to Willow?"
"I don't know what you're talking about." Lore stated calmly.
"The two dancers that *she*," Angelus pointed to the woman leaving the stage, "sent after me."
"And why would Kim send anyone after you? Maybe they just decided you were hot, and decided to check you out."
Just then another dancer, dressed in a I Dream of Jeanie outfit, sat at the table. "Lore, Carrie wants to see you backstage. Something about a change in the number."
Angelus watched the looks that passed between the two women. A message had been passed in that look, but he didn't know what it was. Lore nodded, then left to go backstage.
"Who are you supposed to be?" Angelus asked sarcastically.
"Take a guess, sherlock. Why are you back here? Didn't Willow send you on your way?"
"Willow and I have a history. And I'm not going anywhere until we have a little talk."
"You had better watch your step with Willow. She's got a lot of friends here."
"Ohhh, I'm really scared of a bunch of strippers." Angelus said.
Peri stood, and gave Angelus a small smile. "We prefer exotic dancers."
Peri turned to walk away, but stopped and half turned to Angelus. "Screw with us, and you better be afraid."
Angelus watched the woman walk away. He shook his head at her statement, as if they could scare him.
"Lore talked to him. He knows Paula and Summer were following him, and he knows you ordered it." Carrie said.
"Well, A.J. just called, she's having problems finding anything about him. So, she's going to have to dig deeper. We won't be able to find anything else out yet. Tell Paula and Summer to back off, we don't want to tip him off anymore." Kim replied.
"So, what are we going to do next?" Pam asked, as she got ready for her performance.
"We're going to send him to Willow. If he's here to hurt her, then I want to find out sooner rather then later. Beth, go out and tell him where to find her."
After Beth left, Kim watched through the curtains. She smiled as Angelus got up and walked out of the club.
"Shouldn't we be nearby in case she needs us?" Cara asked.
"She'll be fine. Willow can handle herself. Besides, I don't think he's here to hurt her. And I think Willow needs to see him again. There's something between them." Kim said.
"And what about us? He's already asking questions, what if he asks questions about *them*?" Renee asked.
"We're the only ones who know what happened. Even Willow doesn't know. Unless one of you guys spill your guts, there's no way either Angelus or Willow will ever find out. Besides, those two got what they deserved. They couldn't be allowed to hurt Willow anymore then they already had." Kim answered.
The dancers went back to the dressing room. All of them curious as to what was going to happen when Willow opened her door to Angelus.
Angelus knocked on the door again. He'd about given up when he heard the lock unlatch. He was surprised when Willow opened the door, and invited him in. She didn't seem at all surprised to see him.
"Aren't you surprised?" Angelus asked as he surveyed the near empty apartment. Aside from some furniture, there didn't seem to be much for personal effects.
"I figured they'd tell you where I live." Willow said as she dropped into a chair.
"And that doesn't bother you?"
"Nope, they're my friends, and they know I wanted to see you again." Willow said.
Angelus crouched down in front of the chair, and laid his hands on Willow's thighs. His hands moved up and down her legs, but she made no move to stop him. He looked up to find her looking at him. There was no fear in her eyes. In fact, her eyes looked lifeless.
"What the hell happened to you?" Angelus asked.
Willow smiled sadly at him, then leaned forward, and whispered, "If you only knew."
Then Willow wrapped an arm around Angelus' neck, and pulled him into her kiss. The passion in that kiss left Angelus shocked. He knelt, and pulled Willow off the chair. As they knelt facing each other, Angelus wrapped an arm around Willow's waist, pushing her tightly against him. His other hand wound in her hair. Willow's grasp on him tightened, and she moved her other hand down to cup him.
"Now's not the time to play Twenty Questions." Willow said, then pushed Angelus backwards, sprawling them both onto the floor.
Willow straddled his hips, and pinned his arms to his chest. Angelus stared at this woman he didn't know. Gone was the sweet, innocent Willow. In her place was a sexy seductress. As she bent her head to recapture his lips, Angelus knew this was going to be one hell of a night.
End Part 2
When Angelus had entered that dingy club, he'd never imagined that he'd run into Willow. Or that they'd end up making out on her living room floor. But her body lying on top of his was very real. Physically, she looked the same as he remembered, but on the inside she was different. Something had happened to destroy that innocent girl.....and it had to be worse then what he and the Hellmouth had thrown at her. {What the hell destroyed her innocence?}
Angelus freed his arms, wrapping them around her body. His hands ran up and down her back, while his lips moved to her neck. Willow's hands had gripped his shoulders.
"Aren't you scared of me?"
Willow sat up on his body, once again straddling him. Reaching down, she began slowly unbuttoning his shirt. When she had it open, her hands rubbed his naked chest.
"Do I look scared to you?"
Angelus moved his hands to her thighs, running them up and down her jean clad legs. Willow leaned forward to kiss Angelus' chest, while moving her body against him. Angelus groaned, then flipped them over, so that he was the one straddling her.
Angelus took off his shirt, and then ripped Willow's off. His hands cupped her breasts, before ripping off her bra as well. Then he replaced his hands and began caressing her breasts. He could feel Willow's breathing increase, and bent to take first one nipple then the other in his mouth. Willow gripped Angelus' head, holding him to her breast.
Angelus raised his head, and placed his hands beside Willow's head, leaning over her. Willow's arms moved up to grasp his wrists, and she laid there staring at him. Angelus shook his head at her actions. She should be scared to death that he was here, let alone that he was about to make love to her.
Willow moved her hands from Angelus' wrists up his arms, then let them slide to his shoulders. Slowly she caressed his shoulders, then let her hands slide to his waist. Never breaking eye contact, Willow moved her hands to his pants. She unbuttoned them, and slowly lowered the zipper.
Angelus reached for her hand, sliding it into the opening. Hesitantly, she began rubbing his erection. Angelus dropped his head to Willow's shoulder, and thrusted into her hand.
Angelus knew he couldn't last much longer. Pulling away from Willow, he stood and removed his pants. Then he crouched next to her, and undid her pants. Slowly, he removed her jeans and panties, allowing his hands to lightly brush her fevered skin. Once she was naked, Angelus fit himself between her legs. Willow wrapped her legs around him, as she felt his finger enter her.
"You're ready for me, Willow."
"I've always been ready for you."
Angelus didn't understand her comment, but he was in no condition to dwell on it. He'd add that to his mental list of questions. Removing his finger, Angelus entered her, surprised to find that she was still a virgin. He didn't move, allowing her to adjust to him. When Willow began moving against him, Angelus began his exquisite torture. Willow met him thrust for thrust, and Angelus exploded in extasy.
Rolling off of her, Angelus leaned on his side, lazily running his hand over Willow's body. He had seen her in the throes of passion, but now she just laid there.
"After you're little seduction, it surprised me that this was your first time."
Willow didn't answer him. He watched as she sat up, grabbing his shirt and putting it on. When she made a move to stand, Angelus sat up, pulling her into his arms.
"Where the hell do you think you're going?"
Again, Willow remained silent. Gripping her chin in a firm hold, he forced her to look at him, "Answer me!"
"What do you want me to say? That it was good for me.....or that it was the best I've ever had. Take your pick, they're both true. But, it's over."
Angelus was so stunned by her words, that he didn't react when she stood and walked away from him. A moment later, Angelus jumped to his feet, and pulled on his pants. No one walked away from him.....especially after sex. If anyone walked away, it was him.
Angelus stormed into the bedroom only to find it empty. His shirt was thrown onto the bed, and he could hear the water running. Angelus started for the bathroom, but decided against it. He'd wait till she got out. It would give him a chance to look around.
Angelus began searching the bedroom, but came up with nothing. Clothes were the only things he could find. There was no pictures, no letters, no knick-knacks, nothing of a personal nature. Angelus heard the water turn off, and plopped down on the bed. He leaned back against the headboard, with one leg on the floor in case she made a run for it. Angelus watched as Willow emerged from the bathroom, wearing only a towel. She briefly looked at him, as she walked over to the dresser and began brushing her hair.
"Do you mind telling me what the hell you think you're doing?" Angelus said.
"Brushing my hair."
"Don't push me, Willow. Don't think you're safe from me just because we slept together."
"I don't think that at all. Although, I don't remember there being any sleeping involved. We had sex, Angelus. There are cruder terms if you like those better, but it happened and it's over."
Angelus jumped off the bed, and whipped her around to face him. His hand gripped her neck painfully, but she didn't even struggle.
"I'll be the one to say when it's over. You remember that."
"Let it go, Angelus. You don't belong here. I think it's time you moved on."
Angelus watched Willow's expression, but her emotions were well hidden. Backing up till he sat on the edge of the bed, Angelus pulled Willow between his legs. His arms gripped her legs tightly. Her arms hung at her side, not touching him.
"I don't think so. There's something going on here, and I want to know what it is. Who are those girls at the club?"
"Friends. Just let it go, Angelus."
"Not on your life. I intend to find out what you're hiding, and I'm not leaving till I decide I've finished with you."
Pushing her away from him, Angelus grabbed his coat and started out of the apartment. As he was walking out of the bedroom, he thought he heard Willow whisper. "Why should you care?"
Angelus left Willow's apartment, and headed back to his own. Things were getting more confusing, and he hated not knowing what was going on.
Willow waited till she was sure Angelus was gone. Curling into her chair, Willow picked up the phone and dialed the number. After several rings, it was answered.
"It's Willow."
Willow listened to the voice on the phone. "No, he didn't hurt me. I'm fine."
Again the other person spoke. "I don't know if I'll see him again or not. It's out of my hands now."
Willow dropped her head into her hand, and nodded. "Okay, I'll see you tomorrow night."
Willow hung up the phone, and curled into a ball in her chair. She closed her eyes, but didn't cry. Her tears had been used up a long time ago.
"Thank you, Angelus." Willow whispered to the empty room.
End Part 3
Angelus stood across the street from the club. Willow's behavior had been bizzare, and he knew that those dancers had something to do with it. He wanted answers, and he'd damn well make sure he got them. He'd been waiting a couple hours when he saw two of the dancers leave. Careful to avoid detection, Angelus began following the women.
They turned down an alley, and Angelus made his move. He grabbed the one woman around the neck, and pushed the other into the side of the building.
"What are you doing?" Paula asked, as she pushed herself away from the wall.
"I have questions, and you two are going to answer them for me."
"And if we refuse?" Paula asked, eyeing Angelus.
"Then your friend dies." Angelus squeezed Summer's neck to make his point.
Paula leaned back against the wall, and nodded slightly to Summer. Angelus felt Summer slightly nod her head in response.
"So, what do you want to know?" Summer asked, once Angelus loosened his grip.
"What happened to Willow?"
"Don't know what you mean. Last time we saw Willow, she was fine." Paula said, casually crossing her arms across her chest.
"Listen, you little bitch, I'm not playing games here. Willow's different then she was when I knew her."
Summer brought her hands up and caressed Angelus' hands. Angelus glanced down at the girl, he wasn't sure what to make of her behaviour. "A lot's happened to Willow in five years."
"I never said how long ago it was." Angelus stated.
Paula tilted her head, and smiled at Angelus. "But we know anyway. You've led a very interesting life, Angelus. Or do you prefer Angel?"
"So, you've done your homework. Exactly how well do you think you know me?"
"Well enough. Seems strange that after surviving your killing spree and the Hellmouth, Willow would be destroyed by something a lot closer to home." Paula said.
"Don't play games with me!"
"Why not? Aj said you liked games." Summer said coyly.
"But I choose when and where I want to play. Now, tell me about Willow or you die."
Angelus watched as Summer and Paula exchanged glances. Paula shook her head.
"We really thought you'd be good for Willow, but we were wrong. You will only cause trouble. It's too bad, really. You are very hot." Paula said, then nodded to Summer.
Before Angelus realized what was happening, Summer's hands tightened on his, and twisted. Angelus stared in shock as the dancer's body dropped to the ground.
"What the fu...."
"You killed Summer, and we'll see you destroyed for it!" Paula yelled.
Angelus attacked Paula, slamming her against the wall. "I don't know what the hell you're doing, but you know damn well she snapped her own neck."
"Maybe, but do you think Willow will believe that?" Paula asked calmly.
"This is your way of trying to keep me away from Willow? You are a sick person."
"And this coming from the great Angelus......one of history's most violent vampires." Paula said sarcastically.
"What are you?" Angelus asked.
Paula smiled at him, "You won't ever find out. Once Kim and the others find out about what you've done, they'll make sure you never hurt any of us again, especially Willow. But, since I'm such a nice person, I'm going to give you till daybreak to get out of town and never come back."
Angelus smirked, "Thanks for the warning, but I'm not going anywhere. And you and your little slut friends don't scare me."
"That's a shame. Remember that I did warn you, Angelus."
Angelus shoved Paula away from him, and turned to leave. A thud from behind him caused Angelus to turn. Lying on the ground, was Paula's lifeless body. {What the hell? I didn't push her that hard.} Angelus walked over and knelt down next to the body. Blood ran from her head injury. {When I pushed her, she must've went head first into the wall. Why didn't she protect herself?}
Sounds of sirens in the distance caught Angelus' attention, and he ran out of the alley. Shortly after he left, two people emerged from the shadows.
"He must be made to pay for this." Carrie said.
"You know he will. Just like those other two. It's a pity he couldn't keep his curiosity under wraps." Renee said.
"I never thought he'd be right for Willow. He's too independent for his own good." Carrie said as she bent next to Summer's body.
"Well, we'll just have to find her someone new. But, right now, we just wait till Pam gets here. Then we'll take care of Summer and Paula's bodies."
Carrie leaned against the building, and looked up at the sky. The night would be over soon.......and so would Angelus' life.
Peri knocked on the door, and entered the office. "Pam just left. And there's been no sign of Angelus."
"He'll probably head back to Willow's. He'll try to get her to tell him what's going on." Beth answered.
"Won't do him any good. Do we try to keep him away from Willow?" Cara asked.
"No, nothing Willow tells him can hurt us. We need to take this slowly. He's going to be a tougher challenge then the others." Kim said, and got up to look out the window.
"But, the sooner we get rid of him the better. As long as he's alive, he could be a threat." Cara stated.
Kim turned to glare at her. "Are you questioning my authority?"
"Of course not, it's just that he makes me nervous."
"That's just because you want to get in his pants." Peri said sarcastically, ignoring Cara's glare.
"Shut up! I make the decisions around here, and you'll abide by them. Is that understood?" Kim yelled.
The others nodded their heads, and remained silent.
"Good. Now, Lore's over with Willow. If Angelus shows up there, we'll find out soon enough. In the meantime, just get back to work. We've done all that we're going to right now."
As the girls got up to leave, Kim asked, "Has anyone seen Aj yet?"
"She's not on till 1am. You know she's never early." Beth said.
"Tell her I want to see her when she gets in." Kim said.
As the others left, Kim sat back down at the desk. Angelus had disappointed her. But, he was a man. His attitude was to be expected. Too bad he couldn't have left well enough alone. He would have been pleased with his life.
Strong hands began caressing Kim's shoulders. "You always know just when I need you."
"You've trained me well, Goddess." The male replied.
Poor Willow.....she would have to wait just a little while longer.
End Part 4
"So, are you going to tell me?"
Willow looked over at Lore, who was sitting in the chair. Willow stretched out on the couch, but kept her eyes trained on the ceiling.
"Tell you about what?" Willow asked.
"Get off it, Willow. I already know that Angelus guy came over here last night, so why don't you tell me about it?" Lore asked.
"Don't tell me Aj hasn't already gotten all the interesting tidbits of Angelus' life."
Lore looked uncomfortable, "What do you mean?"
"I'm not an idiot, Lore. I know more then you think I do, and I know Kim had Aj do a search on Angelus as soon as he showed up."
"We were worried about you. But, the details I want are about what happened between you two here." Lore said, effectively changing the subject.
It was Willow's turn to be uncomfortable. The memories of what she and Angelus did still haunted her dreams.
"You slept with him, didn't you?"
"I didn't *sleep* with him." Willow said, evading the question.
"You know what I'm talking about Willow."
"Just drop it, Lore. You have your secrets, leave me with mine. Ok?"
"I don't keep secrets from you." Lore argued.
"Oh, really. I can think of a number of them. But, since we're on the subject, why don't you tell me about Jordan?"
Lore's gaze swung to Willow, and she saw the red-head watching her intently.
"Jordan's my boyfriend, that's no secret."
"Really? I've heard of guys being pussy-whipped before, but he gives it new meaning. You say jump and he asks how high." Willow said.
"Honestly, Willow, you don't know what you're talking about. Jordan is just overly protective of me, and he likes doing things for me." Lore replied calmly.
"And the others? Are they overprotective too?"
"What others?" Lore asked.
"The other 'boyfriends'. Kim's got her own lapdog in Ryan; Nick practically follows at Beth's heels; or what about Michael, who does everything Carrie tells him too. Renee has Jamie jumping through hoops. All of them are like that."
"They love us, is that a crime?" Lore asked.
"That isn't love, it's obsession or something. The other night Chris beat hell out of a guy just because Peri told him to. Or what about when Cara got Jason to invest all that money in the club. And Pam got Marc to do the books for free. I'm not even going to ask how Aj got Eric to get all that computer equipment"
"You're just jealous that we have someone in our lives who would do anything for us."
"I don't think so. And what about Summer and Paula?"
"What about them?" Lore asked suspiciously.
"Don't you think it's a bit strange that *both* of their boyfriends died within weeks of each other?"
"It was a tragedy and it's affected both of them. You should be sympathetic to your friends when they're suffering." Lore said.
"Suffering? I wouldn't call what they've been doing *suffering*."
"Leave it alone, Willow. Don't let your jealousies destroy our friendship. Just because it didn't work out with Angelus doesn't mean you won't find someone."
"Like your stepford boyfriends? No thank you, I want a man that can think for himself. And who said it didn't work out between Angelus and I?"
A knock at the door interrupted the conversation. With a final glance at Lore, Willow stood and answered the door. Angelus stood there, looking furious.
"We need to talk. Now!"
Willow stepped back to allow him to enter. He stopped when he saw Lore standing there.
"What the hell are you doing here?" Angelus demanded.
"Having a little girl talk. Problems?" Lore asked sweetly.
"Oh, I'm sure you know all about the problems I've been having."
"Would you two like me to leave the room? Or do you intend to fill me in on what's going on?"
Angelus turned to confront Willow, but the look of utter confusion on her face stopped him. He turned back to Lore.
"She doesn't know, does she?"
Lore shrugged her shoulders, and started to walk past him. Angelus reached out and grabbed her arm.
"You and your little friends are beginning to piss me off. Stay out of my way!"
Lore smiled sweetly at him, and patted his cheek. "Be seeing you, hot stuff."
Willow watched as Lore left, then turned her attention to Angelus. He dropped into the chair.
"Care to clue me in?" Willow asked.
"You wouldn't tell me what was going on before, but now things have changed. Neither one of us is going anywhere, until you tell me exactly what the hell is going on around here!"
"I don't know what you're talking about."
"Two of your friends are dead, Willow. Now, you're going to tell me what happened from the time you left Sunnydale till now, or I swear to God I'll beat you till you do."
"What do you mean? Who's dead? How?"
"Paula and Summer, I think were their names. I confronted them and now they're dead."
Willow attacked Angelus, pounding his chest. Angelus stood, capturing Willow in his arms. He tightened his grasp so that she couldn't move.
"Why did you have to kill them? They never hurt you." Willow screamed at him.
"I didn't kill them. They killed themselves."
Willow listened as Angelus told her about the encounter in the alley. She didn't know what to believe anymore. But, she had always known there was something going on that wasn't quite right. What kind of game were they playing?
Angelus felt Willow give up the struggle, and he sat back down. He pulled Willow onto his lap, and held her tightly.
"Now, talk."
"I can't."
"Why? Because you're protecting your friends? You know there's something not normal going on here. Quit protecting them."
"That's not why."
"Then why?"
Willow remained quiet, but Angelus gripped her chin and forced her to look at him. "Tell me why!"
"Because I don't want to remember! I can't!!" Willow yelled, then pulled free of Angelus' embrace. She ran into the bedroom, and slammed the door.
Angelus pounded his hands on the armrests and cursed. He realized that whatever those dancers were up to, they had kept Willow out of it. But, he also knew that whatever secrets they had, they were willing to die to keep them buried. Were they also willing to kill?
End Part 5
Angelus entered the bedroom to find Willow lying on the bed. As soon as she saw him enter, she turned her back to him. Angelus went over to the bed and sat down. He put his hand on her hip, and gently tapped his fingers.
"Willow, we need to talk about this. Those girls have targeted me, and I need to know what they're capable of. There's something not right about them."
"I can't tell you what I don't know, Angelus. Yes, I know there's something not quite normal going on, but since I came here, they've been there for me."
"How long ago did you come here?" Angelus asked, moving his other hand to stroke her hair.
"About a year ago."
"Tell me about the club......and the other dancers." Angelus said.
Willow proceded to tell him what she knew. She had never met the owner, but Kim seemed to manage the place. Beth was her assistant; Aj did the computer work; Carrie was in charge of choreographing the dances; Cara doubled as bar manager; Renee was in charge of security; Summer and Paula kept tabs on the new dancers; Lore handled advertising; Peri took care of the costumes; and Pam acted as bookkeeper. They had all been very friendly to her when she came, even though they didn't normally accept strangers. Willow told him about their boyfriends, and how the gals didn't seem to like men very much.
"You mean they're lesbians?"
"No, that's not what I meant. They all have or had boyfriends, but they don't seem to care about them. Their sexual preferences are definately men, though. But, if you've ever seen them with the customers, they treat them like lower life forms."
Angelus was beginning to get a picture about these dancers, but things still weren't adding up. But, he knew he wouldn't get the answers he needed from Willow, since she didn't know anymore then he did. However, there was something else he wanted to know, and she was the only one who could give him the answer.
Angelus turned Willow onto her back, and laid down with her, effectively covering her body with his own.
"Tell me why you came here? What happened to you?"
Willow looked into his eyes, then turned away. "I can't, Angelus. Just please accept that."
"You know I can make you tell me?"
Willow shook her head, and looked at him. "No, you can't. The pain from those memories are worse then anything you could do to me. Why do you think I wasn't afraid when I saw you at the club? Or when you came to my apartment? Because I don't care if you kill me, or hurt me. I'm already broken."
Angelus was stunned by her declaration. What could be worse then what he'd done to her? Worse then living with the constant dangers in Sunnydale?
"Make me forget, Angelus. Please." Willow whispered.
Angelus didn't understand his protective feelings toward Willow, but from the moment he took her, she'd become his. And he didn't let anyone touch what was his. Angelus leaned down, capturing Willow's lips in a soul-searing kiss. Willow wrapped her arms around his neck, and pulled Angelus closer to her.
Angelus pulled away only long enough to get rid of their clothing. The sex was quick and hot.....and Willow didn't have to remember anything.
Willow woke to see Angelus sleeping beside her. Gently she reached out and touched his cheek. It still amazed her how much could change in five short years. This man should scare the hell out of her, but he didn't. When she was with him, she was able to forget about everything that had happened. Forget about the events that had shattered her youth....and destroyed the life she knew.
Willow went to the shower, and let the water beat down on her. She pressed her face into the corner, wishing she could cry.
Angelus walked into the bathroom, and saw Willow in the shower. Quietly, he slipped in behind her, and wrapped his arms around her. He leaned forward, pressing intimately against her, and nuzzled her neck.
"Are you okay?"
"As good as usual." Willow replied.
"That bad, huh?"
Angelus ran his hands up to cup her breasts, and Willow leaned back against him. Her hands drifted back to clutch his hips. Angelus pressed his lips against her shoulder, and began kissing her.
"You should leave, Angelus. It might be safer for you. I don't know what the girls are up to."
Angelus turned Willow around, bracing his hands on either side of her head, while pressing his body against hers. Unconsciously, Willow wrapped her arms around his waist.
"I'm not afraid of those strippers. Curious, maybe.......definately pissed off, but not scared. So those two killed themselves. It's of no concern to me. You, on the other hand, are a different story."
"Why do you care? No one else did." Willow whispered.
Angelus looked at her shocked, "What about Bu......"
Willow silenced Angelus by covering his mouth with her hands. "Don't. Never mention their names to me again."
Angelus nodded, and Willow removed her hands. "Ok, my little dancer, no more questions now. But I'm still determined to find out what happened to you."
"Why?"
Angelus just smirked, and took possession of Willow's lips. His hands dropped to her hips, raising her slightly, and entering her quickly. Willow wrapped her arms around his neck, and met his thrusts. Tightly wrapping her legs around him, Willow held on to his wet body. Angelus moved his hands to her face, pushing the wet strands of hair out of her face.
"Because you're mine, Willow."
After what seemed like an eternity, Angelus turned off the shower, and gently dried Willow's body. He swung her up into his arms, and carried her to bed. Crawling in behind her, he pulled her back against him. His arms wrapped around her body, and Willow cuddled against him.
Angelus laid in bed, and listened to Willow's breathing. Throughout the night, she had begun thrashing and mumbling things he couldn't understand. Taking her firmly in his arms, he soothed her through the nightmares that stalked her sleep. Instead of finding answers, he'd only found more questions. {What the hell is going on with her? And why the hell do I care?}
It was a long time before Angelus was able to sleep. And when he did, he made sure Willow was securely wrapped in his arms.
End Part 6
Willow woke up to find herself in bed alone. "Angelus!?"
Angelus came out of the bathroom, and sat down next to Willow. "I'm right here. What's wrong?"
"I thought you'd left me." Willow whispered.
Angelus bent down and kissed Willow. "Sorry, you're stuck with me now."
It was then that Willow noticed Angelus was already dressed. Turning her head, she noticed that the sun had already set.
"Where are you going?" Willow asked suspiciously.
"I just need to go out for a little while. But, I want you staying here. I don't want you going to the club tonight."
"You're going after them aren't you?"
"I don't like knowing I'm not in control,Willow. I intend to find out what they're up too."
Willow watched as Angelus headed to the door. She sat up in bed, and called his name.
"Don't go to the club. It's too dangerous."
"Willow, I'm a big boy. I can take care of myself."
"You don't even know what you're dealing with, Angelus. But, there might be one of them who'll talk to you. If you get her alone."
"Who?"
"Pam. She's not quite as......let's just say she's different from the others."
"Different how?"
"I can't explain it. But, I've seen the difference in the way she is with her boyfriend. She actually seems to care about him."
"And that means she'll tell me what I want to know?" Angelus asked.
"I don't know, but it's worth a try."
"Where does she live?"
Angelus stood outside the building, until he saw Pam's boyfriend leave the building. Once he got to her apartment, he didn't even bother knocking. He just kicked in the door. Pam turned at the sound, and backed against the wall as she saw an angry Angelus approach her.
"I think we need to talk."
Pam eyed the vampire wearily. She knew all about his past from Aj's research, and she knew he'd kill her and not give it a second thought. {Damn Kim.....this is all her fault!} Pam moved to the chair and sat down. Putting her head in her hands, she debated with herself. If she told him what he wanted to know, Kim and the others would destroy her. If she didn't, he'd kill her. Looking up at Angelus, she made up her mind quickly. She wasn't willing to die for any of them.
Taking a deep breath, Pam sat back and asked, "What do you want to know?"
Angelus watched the woman carefully, and saw her trying to decide what to do. She was scared, and he didn't think he was the only thing scaring her. He sat down on the coffee table in front of her.
"Everything."
"Angelus showed up at Willow's and he was very pissed off." Lore said with a smile.
"How did Willow react when she found out about Summer and Paula?" Renee asked.
"I don't know. He didn't say anything about it while I was there. But, his hostility toward me confused Willow." Lore answered.
"Is he still with her?" Peri asked.
"I don't know." Lore answered.
"Well, we better find out. Kim wants us to keep track of him until she decides how to handle the situation." Carrie said.
"Beth and I can go find him. My guess is he's still with Willow." Cara stated.
"Yeah, I definately volunteer to keep an eye on him." Beth said coyly.
The others shook their heads. "Keep your mind on the business at hand. This is no time for gutter-thoughts." Peri said.
Beth shrugged her shoulders, and left the room with Cara following behind her.
"Angelus might not be our only problem." Lore said cautiously.
"What do you mean?" Carrie asked.
"Before Angelus showed up, Willow and I were talking. I was trying to find out what had happened with Angelus, but she changed the subject by bringing up Jordan." Lore said.
"Why would she mention him?" Peri asked.
"I think she knows more then we thought. She made certain statements about it. And not just about Jordan, but about all the guys. Referred to them as Stepford boyfriends." Lore informed them.
"Oh, that's just great. Kim's going to love hearing that. I better go find her. Willow may end up being a bigger threat then Angelus." Carrie said as she left to find Kim.
"I think this is about to get very interesting." Lore said happily.
"You're enjoying this, aren't you?" Peri asked.
"Naturally. I live for it."
Peri shook her head as she watched Lore leave. Their carefully built existence was unraveling, and no one seemed to realize it. Interesting wasn't the word she'd use. Between Willow and Angelus, their world could come apart at the seams.
End Part 7
Angelus sat staring at Pam, waiting for her to begin telling him what he wanted to know. She laid her head back against the chair.
"I won't volunteer any information. But, you ask the questions and I'll answer them." Pam said.
"Alright. Why did those two kill themselves?"
"Because Kim told them to. She was planning to tell Willow that you had murdered Summer and Paula, and turn her against you." Pam answered.
"Why? You were the ones who pushed me to Willow in the first place."
"True, but then we realized you wouldn't be a good choice for Willow. You were too arrogant, too independent. So, we needed to get you out of her life."
"And if I had met your expectations? Would I have ended up like your boyfriend?"
Pam looked at Angelus, surprised by his statement. "What do you mean?"
"You'd do to me the same as been done to him.....to all of them." Angelus said.
"How do you even know about them?"
"Willow told me. She's noticed their weird behavior."
"Oh, God, she hasn't said anything to the others about that, has she?"
"I don't know, why?" Angelus asked.
"Because, if the others think she knows, they'll see her as a threat."
"And what do they do to someone they see as a threat?" Angelus asked.
"Eliminate them." Pam stated calmly.
"So, that's the next step? Eliminate me."
"Probably. Kim hasn't decided your fate yet. But, if she finds out that Willow is suspicious, she's in greater danger then you."
"Why?"
"Because, we brought her into our group. We protected her......destroyed those who had hurt her. Kim, Carrie, and the others would see that as a betrayal. Just as they'll see what I've done as a betrayal." Pam said.
"Who did you destroy? What happened to Willow?"
"Willow's secrets are hers to reveal. But, the ones we dealt with, were two that had followed her here. They were connected to her past, and had been instrumental in wrecking her life."
"Do you know their names?"
"Buffy Summers and Xander Harris."
Angelus stared in shock. "What do you mean you destroyed them?"
"They're dead. But, before they died, we made sure they suffered for what they did to Willow."
"Does she know?"
"No."
Angelus couldn't make sense of this. What could Buffy and Xander have done to Willow? They were her best friends, why would they have hurt her?
"Are you witches?" Angelus asked.
"Not exactly. We don't have that kind of power. But, don't underestimate what we can do."
"So, how do I handle this?" Angelus asked.
Pam was silent, but she knew she would answer. She'd gone too far to turn back now.
"Kill Kim. With her out of the picture, the others will break apart. I'm not the only one discontent with how things have turned out. But, Kim is extremely dangerous."
"Who else could I talk to? Anyone in the inner section?"
Pam considered his question. Carrie was out, she was completely devoted to Kim, as was Beth and Lore. Aj didn't have the information Angelus would want; Renee and Cara wouldn't risk angering Kim. That left only one possibility.
"There is one other who might help you, but I can't guarantee it. She may not approve of Kim's method, but she's afraid of her."
"Which one?"
"Peri. If you approach anyone, it should be her. The others wouldn't do anything to anger Kim."
"Fine. But, I still have more questions for you."
"You might have more questions, but you may be running out of time. If you care anything about Willow, you need to find out if any of the others know of her suspicions. Her life could be in danger as we speak." Pam stated.
Angelus thought for a moment, and then he remembered something.
"One of the dancers was at Willow's when I got there earlier. She and Willow had been talking."
"Who?" Pam asked.
"The one that dances as a ninja. I think her name is Lore."
Pam closed her eyes, and rested her head back on her hands. "If Willow said anything to Lore, you can bet it's gotten back to Kim by now. And they could be going after Willow as we speak."
"Like hell they will. I'll talk to you later." Angelus said as he rushed out of the apartment.
"No you won't, Angelus. I know these women, and if I stay here I'm dead."
Pam called Marc and told him he needed to come home immediately. He wasn't to talk to anyone on the way. Then Pam began packing. As soon as Marc got home, she was taking him and they were leaving. She would never return.
Angelus rushed to Willow's apartment and called her name. No answer. Rushing into the bedroom, he was relieved to find her sleeping. He grabbed her clothes and threw them into a duffel bag. Angelus wrapped his jacket around the sleeping Willow, and carried her out of the apartment. He wanted her someplace the dancers didn't know about. As he carried her to his apartment, Angelus was too preoccupied to notice Beth and Cara following him.
End Part 8
"How much does Willow know?" Kim asked angrily.
"I don't know. But, she does know that there's something not quite right about Jordan and the others. And, even though she didn't say anything, I know she's developed an attachment to Angelus." Lore said.
"Renee, go get the others. We need to talk about our course of action." Kim said.
"Do you want me to call Beth and Cara back? They're following Angelus." Renee asked.
"No, keep them on that. We can let them know whatever we decide."
Renee left to go get the others. Kim stood looking out the window, while Lore sat crosslegged on the chair.
"Has Willow become a threat?" Lore asked.
"I don't know. If she's known about the guys, she's kept it to herself. Maybe if we find someone for her, and get Angelus out of her life, she can be controlled." Kim said.
"And if she doesn't cooperate?" Lore asked.
"Then we'll have to make sure she and Angelus 'disappear' together."
The phone rang in Pam's apartment, but she ignored it. Marc should be home any minute. Pam finished packing and threw everything into the car. Marc entered and took in the appearance of the place.
"Is something wrong, honey?"
"We're leaving. Everything's packed, and we're never coming back."
Pam walked into Marc's embrace and hugged him tightly. This had been a secret she had kept for a long time, and now she wouldn't have to lie anymore. The others would never know that Marc wasn't like Ryan and the others.
"What's happened?" Marc asked.
Pam told him about her conversation with Angelus. He tightened his hold on her.
"They'll kill you if they find out what you did." Marc said.
"What I did when? Now, when I gave Angelus the information he wanted.........or then, when I didn't change you like the others?"
Marc held her in his arms. He knew she had taken a risk when she only pretended that he was like the others. And he had taken the risk because he loved her and wanted her in his life. Even if he had to act like a subservient male in front of the her friends.
"They'd kill us both if they learned about that. I'm betting they'll be too preoccupied dealing with Willow and Angelus, to concentrate too much on us. And, if later they try to find us, I'm hoping I've learned enough so they won't ever locate us."
"Do you think Willow and this guy have any chance to survive? Kim and the others are dangerous." Marc said.
Pam thought about his question. She'd always known Willow was stronger then she appeared, and there was no doubt that Angelus could handle himself.
"I think they stand a good chance of staying alive." Pam answered truthfully.
"Then, let's get out of here, before Kim sends Carrie or Lore after us." Marc said.
Gripping Marc's hand, Pam took a final look around her apartment. From that moment on, her life would change. She wouldn't have Aj, Peri, and the others to watch out for her. Then again, she wouldn't have Kim and Carrie looking over her shoulder 24/7. Pam shut the door, and walked into her future.
Kim, Carrie, Lore, Aj, Peri, and Renee sat in Kim's office. They had all gathered to discuss their strategy.
"Where's Pam?" Carrie asked.
"I tried her apartment, but there was no answer." Renee answered.
Kim didn't like it. "Call Cara's cell phone. Tell her to go to Pam's, and make sure everything's okay."
"What about following Angelus?" Renee asked.
"Tell her to leave Beth watching him. Cara can rejoin Beth once she's checked on Pam." Kim replied.
Renee went to the phone and talked to Cara. After replacing the phone, she turned to the group.
"Cara's on her way. They followed Angelus to an apartment on the other side of town. He had arrived at Willow's in a hurry, and carried her out of her apartment."
"Why? What did he find out?" Carrie asked.
"They don't know. But, he didn't look too happy when he showed up at Willow's apartment." Renee said.
"How long had they been watching her apartment before he showed up?" Kim asked.
"About an hour and a half." Renee answered.
"So, the question is where was he during that time? We know he was at Willow's when Lore left, and he had to have stayed there during the day. Where was he..........and what was he doing?" Kim wondered out loud.
"Maybe he had to feed." Aj said softly.
Everyone turned toward her. "What? He's a vampire, it makes sense he'd have to go out and feed." Aj stated.
"True. But, if that's the case, why was he in such an all-fire hurry to get Willow out of her aparment?" Carrie asked.
"I don't know." Aj admitted.
Angelus laid in bed, Willow wrapped securely in his arms. Pam had answered some of his questions, but her statements had also raised new questions. After he'd made sure Willow was safe, he'd gone back to Pam's, but she had cleared out. He wasn't really surprised. She didn't want to sit around and wait for her 'friends' to kill her.
The next thing he planned to do was confront Peri. He wanted more information before he discussed any of his suspicions with Willow. Especially about exactly what happened with Buffy and Xander. He really didn't care that they were dead, but he wanted to know what they had done to Willow......and, he admitted, he wanted to know how they died.
The phone rang in Kim's office, and Renee answered. She nodded then turned to the others.
"Looks like we have a problem."
End Part 9
"What kind of problem?" Kim demanded.
"Looks like Pam's taken off. Cara checked her apartment, and it's been ransacked. All of Pam and Marc's clothes are gone, and some of their personal belongings." Renee answered.
"Damnit!! What the hell is she thinking?" Kim yelled.
"There's more. It seems Beth followed Angelus to Pam's apartment." Renee said.
"Did he talk to her?" Carrie asked.
"No, he was only there a couple minutes. They figure Pam had already taken off before he got there." Renee replied.
"Do you think he'd been there before? Could Pam have told him something, and that's why she took off in such a hurry?" Lore asked angrily.
"Maybe she was just afraid of him. Maybe Angelus threatened her." Aj said.
"No, then she would've come to us." Carrie said.
"Tell Cara and Beth to get back here." Kim said.
Renee picked the phone back up, and told Cara that she and Beth were to return immediately. Then she replaced the phone, and turned back to Kim.
"They're on their way. Angelus is at the apartment with Willow. It'll be daylight soon, so he'll be stuck there for awhile." Renee said.
"Good. That'll keep him out of our hair for awhile. Aj, I want you to try to track Pam. Use her license plate, social security number, whatever, just find her." Kim demanded.
Aj nodded, then left to get started on her assignment. Secretly, she prayed Pam would remember the things she'd learned about how to disappear. And if she didn't, Aj knew she could always 'accidently' delete some of the paper trail. Aj wished she had the guts to take Eric and leave.
Peri sat listening to Kim and Carrie arguing about what was the best way to handle the situation. She turned to see Lore casually flipping through a magazine, and Renee was sitting in a chair listening to the argument. It wasn't their place to decided strategy, they were just their to help carry it out. Peri knew that Pam had probably talked to Angelus. How much she'd told him was anyone's guess.
Peri envied that Pam had gotten away. She truly believed that Pam and Marc would disappear. Glancing over at Kim, Peri had to conceal a smile. {You think you control all of us, don't you? The two most loyal to you were Paula and Summer, and you ordered them to die. Carrie and Lore both secretly desire to be in charge. Renee, Cara, and Beth will follow whoever is in power. Aj does as she's told. And you think you have me right where you want me, but you don't know me as well as you think.}
"Angelus?"
"Hhhhmmm?"
"Did you talk to Pam?"
"Yes."
"And what did she give you?" Willow asked.
"More questions."
Angelus pulled Willow onto his chest, and cupped her face in his hands. "She left, Willow."
"What do you mean?"
"Pam knew that if the others found out what she did, they'd kill her. So, she took her boyfriend and left."
Willow nodded, then laid her head down on his chest. "So, what did she say that's bothering you?"
"Did you tell anyone about your suspicions? The ones concerning their boyfriends."
Willow began lazily drawing circles on his chest. His hand gripped hers. "Willow?"
"I told Lore." Willow whispered.
Angelus hugged Willow tightly. {Pam was right. Willow's in danger now.}
"That's why you took me away from my apartment, isn't it? You think they may come after me."
"No one's going to touch you." Angelus stated firmly.
"Do you really think you can stop them? How?" Willow asked.
Rolling over, so that he pinned Willow, Angelus caressed her face. "Divide....and conquer."
Willow smiled. He was good. There was no way to defeat them together, but seperately they would be more vulnerable. And their numbers were already dwindling. Paula, Summer, and Pam were all out of the picture.
"Three down.....eight to go." Angelus stated.
Peri glanced behind her as she hurried from the club. Everyone was in such a frenzy over Pam's abadonment, they hadn't noticed when she'd left. All hell was about to break lose, and she had no intention of being one of the casualties. But, there was something she had to do before she left.
End Part 10