Author: Emma

Parts: 1-10

Distribution: Angel of Mine, TPWFLD, anyone else please ask first.

Rating: NC-17

Disclaimer: Angel, Willow etc do not belong to me. They are the property of Joss Whedon, Mutant Enemy, and the WB. All characters are used without permission. No copyright infringement intended.

Feedback: Yes please!!!!

Summery: Willow goes to visit Angel on Boxing Day.

Spoilers/Warnings: Up to Revelations. Angel's out of hell, and he and Buffy are no longer together. The whole Willow/Xander thing never happened as far as I'm concerned.

< > Indicates thoughts.

Authors Note: For those of you who don't know, Boxing Day is the day after Christmas.

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

Boxing Day

Willow's House

Willow was rummaging in her closet when her Mom knocked on her bedroom door.

"Hey honey, can I come in?" Her mother asked.

"Sure," Willow said moving to sit on her bed.

"So honey, what did you do yesterday? I didn't see you the whole day."

"Oh, well I went to see a friend of mine, I didn't want them to spend Christmas by themselves." Willow said.

"Really," her mother said with some interest. "This wouldn't happen to be the same friend of yours you were going to all this trouble for earlier in the week. What was his name? Angel?"

"Um, yeah" Willow said. "So what are you doing tonight?" Willow said quickly changing the subject.

"Your Dad and I are renting a video, why do you want to watch it too?"

"I can't, I've got to go somewhere tonight," Willow said.

"Oh, where are you going?"

"Just over to An..Angel's for a while," Willow said shyly.

It was then that her mother finally looked round her room. It was a mess. Well for Willow anyway. Clothes were carelessly thrown on her bed, chair and even on Willow's beloved computer.

"So Willow, you didn't tell me you were sorting out your closet," Her Mom said with a sly smile.

"What? Oh, no I just…I was looking for something to wear, something nicer than my normal clothes." Willow said as her face reddened.

This didn't go unnoticed by her Mom. "Really, any particular reason, I mean your only going to visit a Friend," she said putting particular emphases on the word friend.

"MOM! Can't I just want to look nice for once?" Willow said reddening even more. <Sure, and it doesn't have anything to do with Angel, does it? > a little voice in Willow's head said.

It seemed her Mom was thinking the same thing. "Sure you can honey, I was only asking." And with a knowing smile her Mom left the room.

<Just perfect, now I've got my Mom asking questions that even I don't have the answer to. >

Willow sighed and went back to rooting through her cupboard for something to wear.
 
 

2 hours later

Willow stood looking at herself in the mirror with a critical eye. She was wearing a knee length crushed velvet green dress. She had also curled her hair loosely. The colour of her dress bringing out the colour of her hair perfectly. She had applied just a little make-up to help complete the image.

Willow finally decided that she looked okay and sat down on her bed. <Why am I getting so dressed up? I'm only seeing Angel. > Willow thought. <The same reason as I told Mum, I want to look nice. >She told herself. <Yeah for Angel. > A sing-songy voice in her head said.

Was that the real reason she was getting dressed up? > Willow thought. <She wasn't sure. All she knew was that she had had a great time yesterday. She and Angel had shared childhood memories and stories and had laughed at them together. She remembered when she first heard him laugh. Willow didn't think she could remember a time when she had heard that sound coming from him. Slowly, but surely, he was beginning to come out of his shell. >

Willow picked up her bag and with a final look in the mirror headed downstairs only to run straight into her parents.

"Hey honey, you leaving now?" her Mom asked.

"Yeah, I should be back by eleven."

"Okay bye sweetie, have fun," her Dad said.

"Kay, Bye," Willow replied as she quickly headed out the door.

"Willow," her Mom called out after her, "you look beautiful."

"Thanks" Willow said blushing slightly as she turned into the street.

As soon as the door closed behind Willow her mother said, "See, what did I tell you."

Willow's dad sighed. "Don't you think your reading a bit too much into this? Can't she just get dressed up once in a while when she goes out?"

Willow's Mom just looked at him sadly and shaking her head mumbled, "Men!" as she walked back into the sitting room.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It was nearly sunset and Willow nervously stood outside the mansion waiting for Angel to answer the door. The closer Willow had gotten to Angel's the more nervous she had become.

<What if he doesn't want to see me? What if he asks why I'm dressed like this, what if he doesn't like the way I'm dressed, what if Buffy's there. >That last thought was what had bothered Willow the most. For some reason Willow couldn't identify, the thought of Buffy at Angel's troubled her. A lot. She knew that if Angel and Buffy were starting to reconcile it should make her happy, but it didn't, and she didn't know why.

She was pulled out of her thoughts as Angel answered the door.

"Hey Angel," Willow said smiling nervously.

"Willow, what are you doing here? I didn't expect to see you again so soon," Angel said.

At Angel's words Willow's face fell. <I was right, he doesn't want to see me. > She thought sadly.

"But I'm glad you came. I had a great time yesterday." Angel said with a small smile.

Willow looked up at Angel.

"Really?" she said hopefully.

"Yes, really." Angel said, "Come on in."

With that Willow walked into the mansion feeling a little less nervous.

"By the way," Angel said as he closed the door. "I really like your dress."

END PART 1
 
 

Later that night

The Mansion

Willow and Angel were sitting on the sofa watching one of the many Christmas films that were being shown on TV that day. Neither one of them were paying particular attention though, both being caught up in their own thoughts.

Willow was confused, she didn't understand these feeling's she was having about Angel. She had tried to reason them away, telling herself that she was being silly, that they were just feelings of friendship and concern for Angel. That she was just lonely now she and Oz had decided to stop seeing each other. Besides, he had Buffy. Even if they weren't together at the moment, she was sure he still loved her. At that thought Willow felt a tinge of…she wasn't sure. Jealously? Sadness?

<Why would I be jealous? I mean its not as if I have feelings for him. Is it? > Willow thought.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Angel was staring blankly at the TV, caught up in his thoughts. He wasn't sure what was happening here between himself and Willow. All he knew was that this past week and especially these past two days Angel had felt better than he had since his return from hell. When he was around Willow the pain and guilt lessened, to be replaced by something else, something he couldn't identify.

When Willow had first come to see him, he was reluctant to see her. He had felt so terrible about all the things he had done to everyone, including her. To his surprise though, Willow had never judged him. She had made it clear on her first visit that, as far as she was concerned, the matter was closed. After that first visit from her, he had begun to look forward to seeing her more and more. He had even gone by her house one night to see how she was and was surprised when she invited him into her house.

<I wonder if her friends know she comes to see me? Probably not. > He thought. <If they did I'm sure I would of heard from them, or at least from Buffy. >

<Buffy. > He didn't know what to think when it came to her. She had stopped visiting him, saying she couldn't be around him, that it was too painful. At the time Angel had practically begged her not to go, that they could work it out, but he now knew they could never be together. She was a slayer, he was a vampire. That was the way it worked.

Since Willow had started visiting him though he had been thinking of Buffy less and Willow more. <Could it be that he had feelings for her, besides friendship? > Angel wasn't sure.

"Angel, you okay?" Willow questioned sleepily.

"What? Oh I'm fine. I was just thinking." Angel said after being broken out of his thoughts. He glanced at the clock surprised to find it was nearly eleven.

"About what?"

"Just how much I've enjoyed these past few days." Angel said. <Well, it's partly true. >

"Really." Willow said. "I wasn't sure if you wanted me over all the time."

"Willow, you should know you can come over anytime. If it wasn't for you I would have spent Christmas alone." Angel said. "Hey, do you want a drink?"

"Sure. Thanks." Willow said settling back on the sofa.

"Willow, what do you want. I've got…" Angel's voice trailed off as he walked in from the kitchen to find Willow fast asleep on the sofa.

Angel walked over and crouched down beside her. <She looks so peaceful. So pretty. > He thought to himself. It hadn't gone unnoticed by him the way she was dressed. <I wonder if she got dressed up because she was coming to see me? > Angel thought. <What am I thinking, why would she do that? She had probably gone out earlier and hadn't had time to change. >

Without realising what he was doing Angel reached over and carefully brushed away a stray piece of hair from her face. Slowly he picked her up and walked out of the mansion.

Luckily, Willow's house wasn't to far from Angel's. He climbed up the Trellis to her balcony and let himself into her room.

He walked over to her bed and carefully pulled back the covers so as not to wake her. He then placed Willow into her bed.

With one final lingering glance at her he headed towards her door. Just as he was about to shut the door behind him he heard Willow sleepily mumble "goodnight Angel."

"Goodnight Willow." Angel quietly replied as he shut the door and headed for home.

END PART 2
 
 

Willow's house

Willow slowly awoke from her sleep, at first unsure of where she was. The last thing she remembered she was at Angel's and he had gone off to get her a drink.

<I guess I must have fallen asleep and Angel brought me back here. > Willow thought.

Realising that it was still dark outside she looked over at her clock. <5:00 AM> Willow thought. <I might as well go back to sleep for a while. >

With that thought in mind, Willow sunk deeper under her covers and fell back to sleep.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Later that day

Willow was awakened from her sleep by the sound of the phone ringing. Reaching over to her bedside table Willow picked up the receiver.

"Hello?" Willow said into the phone sleepily.

"Hey Willow, I didn't wake you did I?" Buffy asked.

"Um…No I was just about to get up." Willow replied.

"Great. Look I wondering if you wanted to come over for a while. I haven't see you much this past week with Christmas and all."

"Sure, I'd like that. When do you want me to come over?" Willow asked.

"How about in a hour?"

"Sure." Willow replied. "Bye."

With that Willow dragged herself out of bed, showered, dressed and headed for Buffy's.
 
 

One hour later

Buffy's house

Willow and Buffy were sitting in Buffy's room while Buffy was showing Willow what she had gotten for Christmas.

Willow was sitting on the bed watching while Buffy showed her one gift after another and talking about all the fun she had had over the past few days.

"..and then Cordelia and I went round to Xander's and watched a Charlie Brown Christmas, you know the one with Snoopy dancing , and then Xander joined in and..."

Willow blocked out what Buffy was saying caught up in her thoughts. <What does she mean? Her, Cordelia and Xander? Where was I? Why didn't they invite me? Xander and I always watched that program together at Christmas. > She stopped her train of thoughts when she realised Buffy had stopped talking.

"So?" Buffy asked.

"Sorry, what were you saying Buffy? I sort of zoned out for a minute."

" Obviously" Buffy said. "I was asking what you did over the past few days."

"Me? Oh, I just stayed at home." Willow lied.

<Why don't I tell her I was with Angel? Its not as if I have anything to hide, is it? >

"Well we were going to asked you to come to Xander's with us but we figured you wouldn't want too." Buffy said.

"Why wouldn't I want too?" Willow asked

"Well you know. I figured you had other things to do. You know, Computer stuff, or reading some spellbook or one of those other dull, boring, stupid things you're into." Buffy said without thinking.

"Dull? Boring? Stupid?" Willow asked fighting back tears.

"Oh, no I didn't mean dull or boring or stupid." Buffy said quickly "I just meant stuff you were into but I have no use for…Um I mean I'm not interested in. Look that didn't come out the way I meant it."

"No, I bet it didn't" Willow said as her emotions changed from hurt to anger.

"Look Willo.." Buffy started but was cut off.

"No! You look. I've had it. I'm fed up of you talking down to me like I'm a stupid child because you're a slayer. Oh and I'm sorry if my interests bore you. That's why they're MY interests, and may I remind you that my dull hobbies have saved your life several times. Well, if that's the way you feel about my help then you don't have to have it anymore." Willow said angrily.

With that Willow picked up her bag and ran out of the house to the only place she could think of.
 
 

The mansion

Angel awoke to the sound of crying. Getting up he walked through the mansion untill he found the source of the sound. Sitting in the garden crying was Willow. Angel's heart broke as the sobs got lounder. Angel walked as close as he could to Willow without getting hit by the rays of sunlight shining down.

"Willow?" Angel called softly as not to scare her.

When Willow continued to cry he called a little louder. "Willow!"

At the sound of her name being called Willow spun around to find Angel looking at her from the safety of the mansion. Slowly she got up and started to walk towards him. Babbling as she did so.

"Angel! I'm sorry, did I wake you? I thou…thought you'd be asleep and I didn't know where to go and…" Willow was cut off as Angel reached out and pulled her into the room away from the sunlight and into his arms.

Willow looked up to find a very worried Angel staring down at her.

"Willow, are you okay? What happened? Who did this to you? Are you hurt?" Angel shot out the questions so fast she could barely register them.

"I'm..I'm fine Angel. Really." Willow said trying to sound convincing. Unfortunately she wasn't doing a very job. Willow raised her head up to look at Angel and at the look of worry in his eyes Willow burst into tears again.

Angel looked down at Willow, desperately trying to figure out what had caused Willow so much pain. Once again he asked her who had done this. She said only one word.

"Buffy."

END PART 3

Angel pulled away from Willow to look at her.

"What do you mean Buffy?" Angel questioned.

Willow looked up at Angel, unable to read the expression on his face.

"It was nothing. Nevermind." Willow said.

"Willow, something must have happened for me to find you sitting out there crying." He said.

"Okay, I'll tell you, just promise not to be angry at me." Willow said.

<Angry? Why would I be angry with her? > Angel thought.

"Okay, I promise" Angel answered.

Once they were settled on the sofa Willow told Angel all about her fight with Buffy.

"....and so I told her she didn't have to have it anymore and ran out the house." As Willow finished she looked at Angel still unable to tell what he was thinking.

"So why did you come here?" Angel asked.

"Be...because I figured Buffy may go looking for me and this is the only place I could think of that she wouldn't look." Willow answered.

"I understand." Angel said.

"Are...Are you mad at me?" Willow whispered staring to cry again.

"Why would I be?"

"Because of what I said to Buffy and..." Willow was cut off by Angel.

"Buffy should have known better." Angel said. "I can't believe she said that to you, especially after all you've done for her. If I'm mad at anyone it's her not you. Now I don't want you beating yourself up over this anymore, understood."

Willow silently nodded her head.

"Good." Angel said getting up from his seat.

Angel sat down next to Willow and pulled her close to him. When he heard her cries subside he looked down at her and gently brushed the remaining tears away.

<I can't believe Buffy. > Angel thought. < After all Willow's done for her. Buffy and the others can be so self-centred sometimes, and Willow's anything but stupid! > Angel looked down at Willow, surprised to find her falling asleep. <I guess that fight with Buffy took more out of her than I realised. >

Angel turned away from Willow when he realized he had been staring at her, but he just couldn't seem to help it. She looked so relaxed and peaceful while she was sleeping, almost as if the day's events hadn't taken place. Unconsciously he began stroking her hair, causing Willow to snuggle even closer to him.

Angel sighed as he lay against the back of the sofa in an attempt to get some sleep. He hadn't realized but it was almost nightfall and he wasn't going to risk Willow walking home.

<So she might stay the night, and besides I'd hate to wake her. > He reasoned. With that decided he closed his eyes and fell asleep.
 
 

The next day

Willow slowly woke up and tried to remember where she was. As she looked around the first thing she realized was that she was in the mansion. The second thing was that she was next to Angel who was still sleeping. It was then that the memories of the past day came back to her. The fight with Buffy, her running out the house, Angel finding her. Angel, she couldn't believe he took her side over Buffy's. For some reason that fact pleased her, but she immediately felt bad for thinking it. They were probably worried about her.

<Let them be. > She thought. <It'd be the first time they'd notice. After all I've been going to see Angel for over a week now and they haven't realized I've been gone. At least my parents are out of town till tomorrow. >

Realizing that she was still tired she leaned back against Angel and fell to sleep.
 
 

That night

Angel silently moved around the mansion as to not wake up Willow. Angel had woken up the hour before to find Willow still asleep in his arms. He had stayed like that for a while, just watching her, wondering how someone could sleep as much as Willow had. She had been sleeping in his arms for nearly 24 hours. Not that Angel had minded.

As soon as Angel had got changed he went to wake up Willow. Crouching down so that he was face level with her he gently shook her awake.

"Hey. Come on, time to get up sleepy head." Angel said smiling as Willow finally came to.

"Hey yourself." Willow said shyly as she got up off the sofa. She stood up and tried in vain to straighten her crumpled clothes.

"Ugh, I feel like I've been wearing these clothes for a week. How long was I asleep?" She asked.

"All of last night and today." He said smiling at the look of shock on her face.

"Wow." Willow said not entirely believing him.

"Look, if you want I can give you one of my T-shirts to wear. It'll be a little big but it'll be cleaner than what you've got on." Angel offered.

"That'd be great." Willow said smiling up at him.

With that decided Angel took Willow to his bedroom and pulled out a T-shirt from his chest of draws and left Willow to get changed.

Willow slowly pulled her top off and let it drop unceremoniously to the floor, she then reached over to the bed and put on Angel's T-shirt. He was right when he said the shirt was too big for Willow. It fell down to just above her knees and v-neck of the shirt became quite low cut. Not bothering to tuck it into her jeans she reached down to pick up her top and placed it on the bed. Taking in her surroundings Willow slowly walked around the room. It had no visible windows and just had a couple of lamps for light. Apart from that the only other furniture in the room was a chest of draws, a comfortable looking chair and the bed. <Black silk sheets. > Willow thought. <Nice. > Willow walked back to the end of the bed and picked up her top, put it in her bag and walked out of the room.

She found Angel sitting in the garden waiting for her.

<God she looks so cute wearing that. >Angel thought looking at her.

"Thanks for letting me borrow the shirt Angel." Willow said. "I'll give it back to you as soon as I can."

"Your welcome Willow, and you might as well keep the T-shirt. It's not as if I have a shortage of them." He said smiling slightly.

"Thanks." Willow said smiling back.

"Well come on. I'd better get you home before your parents think you've been kidnapped." Angel said smiling again.

Angel had noticed that he had been smiling more and more recently, and Angel silently wondered if it was being around Willow that had brought this change about.

"It's okay, they're out of town till tomorrow," Willow said as they headed out the door. " but I'd better get back. I still have an assignment to finish before school starts again next week."

"Wait, they give you homework during the holidays?"

"Oh yeah, you see they feel that since they have to mark our work over Christmas that they might as well let us suffer too." Willow said. "They have no mercy."

Angel grinned at that last comment.

"So what's you assignment about?" Angel asked.

"Well, I have to write a 5000 word essay on 'The life and times of William Shakespeare' and I haven't even begun to..." Willow's voice faded away as the two walked down the street talking about Willow's assignment and unfair teachers.

They were only a few minutes from Willow's house when a vampire jumped out and attacked them. Before either of them knew what was going on Willow found herself being thrown to the ground and hitting her head on the hard concrete pavement.

Angel looked down to see Willow laying on the ground not moving, then to the vampire smirking at him.

"Well, well, well. What do we have here." The vampire said smugly. "Looks like your little girlfriend's hurt. She'll be dead soon enough though, Although not before you. Oh but don't worry, I won't make her death TOO painful."

At the look the vampire gave Willow Angel snapped. His game face slid into place and he lunged at the vampire and threw him to the ground. While the surprised vampire got up Angel bent down and grabbed the stake he knew Willow kept out of her bag and waited for the vampire to attack again. The vampire was a good fighter but he was no match for the very angry Angel as he soon found out. As the vampire went to attack again Angel grabbed him, threw him against a wall and had him staked in seconds.

Angel turned around, his face returning to its normal human features. He bent down to where Willow was laying.

"Willow, are you okay?" Angel asked worriedly.

"Angel? Is that you." Was the only response Angel got.

"Yes Willow it's me. Do you think you can stand?"

"Yeah, I think so." Willow replied as she started to get to her feet.

Angel stood and helped Willow get up.

"Are you sure you're okay?" Angel asked.

"I'm fine. Really." Willow said.

However as soon as she had said that she was overcome with dizziness and had to lean against the wall for support.

"Yeah, you really look fine to me." Angel walking over to her.

Before Willow knew what was happening Angel had picked her up and was carrying her towards her house.

"Angel, put me down!" Willow said. "I'm fine, really."

"Willow, you could hardly stand up over there. I'm not going to risk you falling over and doing yourself some real damage." Angel said.

Willow sighed in resignation and made herself comfortable as Angel carried her home.

Angel was almost at Willow's house when he looked down at her, She was awake but hadn't said much since he had been carrying her. <I hope she's all right. > Angel thought worriedly.

Angel arrived at Willow's house a few minutes later and entered the same way as before via her balcony. He gently laid Willow on her bed and after making sure she was comfortable went downstairs to get a glass of water and some aspirin.

"Ugh, I feel like I've been hit by a truck." Willow moaned as Angel re-entered the room.

"Here, take this it'll help with your headache." Angel said handing Willow an aspirin.

Willow looked at him doubtfully but took it from Angel anyway.

"Why don't you try to get some rest?" Angel suggested after she had taken the pill.

Willow nodded her head in agreement and sank further into her bed.

"Look, do you want me stay with you for awhile?" Angel offered.

Willow thought carefully for a moment. "Thanks Angel, I'd really appreciate that."

"Okay." Angel said.

With that decided he pulled a chair over to her bed and stayed with Willow until long after she had fallen asleep.

END PART 4

Later that night

Willow woke up from her sleep surprised to find her headache almost gone. Looking around Willow noticed it was almost sunrise and Angel had left.

Reaching over for her glass of water Willow noticed that she was still dressed in her clothes from the past day. Wrinkling her nose up in distaste Willow removed them and headed for the shower.

Twenty minutes later Willow walked out of the bathroom and headed over to her dresser. She started to take out something to wear for bed when her eyes fell to Angel's shirt lying on the floor.

Willow bent down to pick the shirt up. <Well he did say I could keep it. > Willow thought as she pulled the T-shirt over her head.

Willow crawled into bed momentarily thinking what it would be like to have silk sheets. <Black silk sheets. > Willow briefly wondered where that thought had come from before quickly dismissing it and falling to sleep.
 
 

The next day

Willow was awoken by the sound of knocking on the door. Figuring her parents had forgotten their key she headed downstairs.

However when she opened the door it was not her parents standing there, it was someone she was a lot less pleased to see.

"Buffy."

"Hi Willow! How's thing's? Oh yeah, let's just forget about the other day okay, no need to make it into some big deal. So how are you?" Buffy asked as she pushed her way into Willow's house.

"I'm fine." Willow said. <Let's just forget about the other day. Oh sure, why the hell not! > Willow thought sarcastically.

"Really, where have you been? No one's seen you since you left my house the other day." Buffy said.

"I was staying with a friend." Willow said as she walked into the kitchen.

It was then that Buffy noticed the shirt Willow was wearing. <Just like Angel's. >

Buffy gave Willow an icy stare. "So who was this friend? Anyone I know?"

Willow turned around and noticed Buffy looking at her shirt. <Uh oh. >

"Um, no." Willow lied heading back to the front door. "Look, I don't mean to sound rude but my parents are coming home today and I have a lot to do before they get here."

"Oh, okay." Buffy said as Willow opened the door. "Look, Giles want's us to come to the library later, he got a new load of books and wants us to help him sort them out. Think you can make it?"

"Sure." Willow said and closed the door, leaving a very confused Buffy standing outside of Willow's house.

Willow slowly walked up the stairs to her room trying to process what had just happened. <I can't believe I lied to Buffy. I can't believe I lied to Buffy. >

Willow wasn't sure what was going on with herself. Part of Willow was upset at herself for making Buffy and her friends worry, but part of her was mad at Buffy for how she had acted the other day. Another thought entered Willow's mind, why didn't she tell Buffy that she had stayed with Angel? She didn't know.

Sighing Willow got dressed and started to clean the house up before her parents got home.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Willow was getting ready to leave when she heard the phone ring. Moving from her bed Willow walked to her desk and answered the phone.

"Hello."

"Hey Honey."

"Mom! Why are you calling, shouldn't you and Dad be on your way home?" Willow asked.

"Well, we were supposed to be but there was some pretty heavy rain over here last night and the bridge flooded so we won't be back for another couple of days."

"Oh, okay."

"Will you be okay by yourself?" Her mother asked

"Sure, no problem."

"Are you certain?" Her Mom asked worriedly.

"I'll be fine. Don't worry." Willow said.

"Okay, bye sweetie."

"Bye Mom. Give Dad my love." Willow said

"I will." Her Mom replied and hung up the phone.

Willow put the phone back down and headed out the house to the library.
 
 

The library

Willow walked to the school quickly, trying to get there before it started to rain. Willow entered the school and headed towards the library. She was about to enter when the sounds of her friends raised voices stopped her. Crouching down behind the door Willow listened to what they were saying.

"Look I'm telling you! Something's up with her. She was acting totally weird when I saw her today." Buffy said

"Look Buffy are you sure you not over reacting? You got in an argument, she just needs time to cool off. So to speak." Giles said.

"No! I'm telling you she's keeping something from us and I don't like it."

"Wait" Xander said. "Willow, keep a secret from us. Are you sure?"

"Yes!"

"Wow. Willow's got a dark secret, who would have thought." Cordeila said.

"Stop it all of you!" Giles said. "Just because Willow is acting a little out of sorts doesn't mean anything's wrong. Why don't you just ask her when she gets here? I'm sure you'll find out it's nothing."

Buffy, Xander and Cordeila all mumbled their agreement and carried on with their work.

Willow stood up and started heading away from the library. She couldn't believe her friend's talking about her like that. Deciding she didn't want to play twenty questions with them Willow walked out of the school and headed home.

Willow quickly walked down the street pulling her jacked closer around her. She hadn't realized when she had left but it now dark outside and had also just started pouring with rain. She was halfway home when she had the feeling that she was being followed. Reaching into her pocket Willow realised that she had left her cross and stake at home.

<Great, I can't believe I was so stupid! > Willow thought. <Now what am I going to do? >

Speeding up Willow turned round a corner only to run into...

"Angel!" Willow said. The relief in her voice audible.

"Willow, what are you doing out alone? You could get killed!"

"What? Oh well, I was meant to be at the library but I changed my mind and didn't go." Willow said.

"Why?"

"No reason, I just didn't feel like going tonight." Willow said.

"Okay, look we better get inside. I can sense a lot of vampires around here tonight, and it won't be long before they come after us." Angel said.

"Okay." Willow said. "But we're still about fifteen minutes away from my house."

"Well, we could get to my house in five." Angel suggested.

"Okay, lets go." Willow said eager to get inside away from the rain and vampires.
 
 

The mansion

Willow took of her jacket and sat down on the sofa and waited while Angel locked the door.

"So, how's your head?" Angel asked sitting down on the sofa next to Willow.

"Better, it's almost gone now." Willow said starting to shiver.

"Are you cold?" Angel asked.

"A little bit." Willow said and at Angel's raised eyebrow changed her mind. "Okay, a lot."

"Come here." Angel said pulling Willow into his arms.

Willow buried her head into Angel's shoulder trying to get warm. Willow knew that this was wrong but at this moment she didn't care, she was cold, wet and tried.

Angel heard Willow yawn and looked down at her. "Don't tell me your tired again." Angel said with a small smile on his face.

Willow looked up at him shyly. "Well I got up early today. Plus I'm still recovering from my run in with that vampire the other day."

"Look, why don't you get some sleep?" Angel suggested. "You can sleep in my room and I'll give you something dry to wear okay."

"Thanks." Willow said.

With that Angel reluctantly removed Willow from his lap and walked her to his room. He gave Willow another one of his T-shirts to wear to bed and took out some dry clothes for himself. He then left Willow alone to get changed. After he had gotten changed he came back in to find Willow buried under his covers half asleep.

"Look Willow, I have to got out for a little while. Before I ran into you I was on my way to talk to someone. I won't be gone long okay." Angel said.

"Okay." Willow mumbled sleepily from under the covers.

With that Angel walked out the room to put his jacket on. Walking back in he leaned over Willow whispered his goodnights and left.

Willow lay with her eyes closed unable to get to sleep. She would almost drift off when the same thought entered her mind again and again, Angel. She was trying to make sense of her feelings towards him. She knew that she liked him. A lot, but she wasn't sure how much. Did she love him? She didn't know, but she knew that she had deep feelings for him that ran beyond friendship. Sighing, she decided that thinking about such things would do her no good. Even if she did love him, she knew he loved Buffy. There was nothing she could do to change that, so why bother thinking about things that would never be.

Buffy walked down the street and headed for Angel's. Giles had told them that vampire activity had gotten heavier over the holidays. He had said they were probably just out more because it was the holidays and there were a lot more unsuspecting people about, but Buffy wanted a second opinion and who better to ask than Angel. Plus it also gave her a chance to see him again.

Buffy arrived at the mansion, let herself in without thinking twice, and went looking for Angel. She had walked through most of the mansion and had found no sign him. Turning around Buffy checked the last place he could be. His bedroom. Walking into his room expecting to find him there Buffy got the shock of her life. For there, sleeping in Angel's bed, was Willow dressed in only one of Angel's shirts. Unable to believe what she saw Buffy fled the mansion and headed home.

END PART 5

Buffy's house

Buffy ran up to her room and slammed the door shut. She couldn't believe what she had seen at Angel's. She lay on her bed and tried to come up with a plausible reason as to why Willow would be in Angel's bed but found none. She briefly entertained the idea that Angel was interested in Willow but decided that was impossible. <Angel Liking Willow? I think not, what would he see in her? > The only conclusion she could come up with was that Willow was jealous of her, that she wanted the same attention as she got and so tried to have what she had. That was why she was wearing that shirt when she came round Buffy reasoned. To make her jealous. Buffy also decided that's why she was at Angel's. Although what she was trying to accomplish there was beyond Buffy. The one thing she was sure of was that she didn't want to be in Willow's shoes when Angel got back. Deciding that this problem of Willow's had to be dealt with she decided to pay a visit to Willow in the morning and if that didn't work she'd take her to Giles to sort it out.
 
 

The mansion

Angel walked into mansion and locked the door behind him. He had gone in search of Buffy, to find out why the hell she thought she had the right to talk to Willow like that, but had come up empty handed. He had searched everywhere and still had not found her. He had been about to stop by her house again when the rain had gotten worse and he had decided it was best to head home.

<This isn't over though Buffy. > Angel thought as he headed for his room.

Angel quietly walked into his bedroom, removed his wet coat and tossed it onto his chair. He then walked over and sat on the edge of the bed, staring down at Willow. She lay there peacefully, her head buried deep into his pillow and surrounded by masses of silk.

Angel resisted the urge to reach out and touch her, afraid he would wake her. As he sat there he couldn't deny how beautiful she looked. Just as he couldn't deny his feelings for her.

He loved her.

It had taken him a long time to admit it to himself but as he watched her sleep he now knew it to be true. At first he had told himself he was just confusing it for friendship, that he still loved Buffy even if they weren't together. However, deep down Angel had known that wasn't the case. His feelings for Buffy had died long ago, he just hadn't wanted to face the truth.

<None of this matters though. Its not like she has these feeling for me too. So I might as well forget about it. > Angel thought sadly. With that Angel got up and quickly left the room deciding never to tell Willow how he felt.

Willow awoke suddenly at the sound of a crash just outside the mansion. Willow slowly became aware of the sound of the wind howling and the rain beating heavily against the ground. Looking around her Willow spotted Angel's coat laying on the chair and got out of bed to look for him. As she walked down the hall Willow was silently glad she wasn't home alone. Excluding vampires, demons and such Willow was only afraid of two things. Frog's and thunder storms.

Willow entered the main room and nearly jumped out of skin when she felt a hand on her shoulder. Spinning around she was relieved to find Angel there looking at her.

"Willow what are you doing wandering around here in the middle of the night? Are you okay?"

"Um yeah...no. Look I know this is going to sound silly but I'm kind of......I'm kind of scared of thunder storms." Willow admitted extremely embarrassed.

Angel looked down at Willow and smiled. "It's not silly Willow. Especially staying in a place like this. I mean it's creepy enough during the day."

Willow looked up at him relived to find that he had meant what he said and wasn't making fun of her. She was about to say something else when a bolt of lightning came crashing down outside knocking a tree branch through a nearby window.

Without realizing what she was doing, Willow threw herself at Angel, closed her eyes tightly and held on for dear life.

Angel regained his balance and put his arms around Willow. One minute they had been talking and then the next thing he knew he had found her clinging to him like she was going to die if she let go. He hadn't realized her fear ran so deep. Angel suddenly became aware that the broken window was letting freezing cold air in and Willow was only dressed in his thin T-shirt. Not wanting her to freeze he gently guided her back to his room and shut the door behind them.

Willow slowly became aware of Angel talking to her soothingly. She also became ware that she was back in bed. Looking up she saw Angel staring at her intently.

"You feeling better now?" Angle asked gently.

"Yeah." Willow said. She tried to remember how she got back here and vaguely remembered Angel leading her back here.

"Look, why don't you try to get some more sleep, okay." Angel suggested.

"I..I don't know if I can." Willow said still slightly shook up from the earlier events.

"You'll be fine." Angel said. "And if you need me I'll only be down the hall. Okay."

Looking up at him Willow simply said "Stay."

Angel looked down at Willow shocked, not quite registering what she was saying.

"Please, till I fall asleep?" Willow begged.

Seeing the look on Willow's face Angel knew he couldn't leave her alone like this.

"Okay." Angel said moving to the other side of the bed. He climbed in and was surprised when Willow moved closer to him and rested her head on his chest.

Angel looked down at Willow and realized that she was already falling asleep. Sighing he leaned his head against the pillow knowing that he was in for a long night.

END PART 6

The next morning

Buffy was waiting impatiently outside of the Rosenberg's front door waiting for Willow to answer. She had knocked several times and was starting to get annoyed. <She's probably avoiding me. > Buffy thought. <I know I would be if I had gone over to Angel's and done that. At least it explains why she didn't turn up at the library. >

Coming to the conclusion that Willow wasn't going to answer Buffy left and headed home deciding to talk to her later at the library.
 
 

The mansion

Willow slowly woke up from her sleep and looked around confused, realizing that she was not at home. It then dawned on her that she was not alone and that someone had his or her arm wrapped around her. Looking down Willow came face to face with Angel sleeping peacefully below her. Remembering the previous night's events Willow carefully got out of bed and went into the bathroom to change.

As she started to get changed Willow thought back to the night before. <I can't believe I asked Angel to stay with me. Together. In his bed. I can't believe he said yes. > Willow finished getting changed and pushed her thoughts aside as she made her way back to the bedroom.

Willow quietly walked back into the bedroom surprised to find Angel awake and sitting on the bed.

"Oh, hi Angel, your up. What are you doing up in the day?" Willow asked confused.

"You kind of woke me up when you got out of bed. You've got sharp elbows." Angel said smiling slightly.

"Oh, sorry about that, I didn't mean to wake you."

"Don't worry about it." Angel said getting up.

Willow quickly glanced at her watch wondering what time it was. "Oh no! I'm supposed to meet the others in the library in 20 minutes! I gotta go."

"Oh, okay." Angel said a bit disappointed that Willow had to leave so soon.

As they walked from the bedroom to the main entrance Angel studied Willow. She had been acting strangely since she woke up and Angel wondered if she was okay. Not being able to stand it anymore Angel asked her.

"Willow are you okay, you...you're acting kind of odd."

"What, oh no I'm fine. I'm just worried about seeing Buffy again." Willow said nervously. <That and the fact that I slept in the same bed as you last night. >

"Okay. Look I'm sure everything will be fine today." Angel said.

As they reached the door Willow turned around and looked at Angel.

"Thank you." She said.

"For what?" Angel asked confused.

"For being my friend." Willow said. With that she proceeded to give Angel a quick hug. She was slightly shocked when Angel put his arms around her and returned the hug.

After a few seconds Willow broke away from Angel but was surprised when he kept his arms around her. Confused Willow looked up at him and stared up into his eyes, her gaze captured by their beauty. Without realizing what she was doing Willow started to lean in closer to him.

Angel stared down at Willow in his arms. She looked so beautiful at that moment that Angel was sure he was dreaming. He slowly started to lean down towards her, his mouth almost touching hers when...

"I better go!"

Angel pulled away from Willow so quickly she almost fell over.

<Oh god, what the hell just happened? > Willow though as she bent down to pick up her bag. Without looking at him she quickly headed for the door. Opening it Willow turned towards Angel who had moved several feet away from her as if he had been burned.

"See you." Willow said nervously after she had retrieved her bag.

"Bye." Angel said to the retreating figure as Willow practically flew out the door.

Once Willow was gone Angel sunk down onto the sofa.

<Great, just great! I can't believe I was so stupid, trying to kiss her. What was I thinking? Willow doesn't have those kind of feelings for me and now I've ruined my friendship with her. I'll just have to try and make it up to her. Tell her it was all a mistake. > Angel thought to himself. Deciding it was better to sort it out now rather than later Angel headed to the library through the sewers.

Willow walked quickly down the street heading for the library.

<God, Angel must hate me. > Willow thought. <I mean I tried to *kiss* him! Thank god I realized what I was doing before I made a total fool of myself. I'll have to talk with him later. To make him understand it was an accident. >

Willow entered the library and sat down at the computer. She had been working for some time when Buffy and Xander walked in.

Hi Xander, hi Buffy." Willow said.

"Hi Will." Xander said cheerfully as he sat down at he table and proceeded to stuff a Twinkie in his mouth. Buffy on the other hand ignored her and sat down at the table and started to flip through a magazine. Sighing Willow turned back to the computer and continued with her work.
 
 

1 hour later

Willow got up from the computer and headed to the stacks. She wasn't sure she could take much more of this. Xander had been stuffing food into his face continuously and had currently disappeared to find more supplies, Giles had been hiding in his office all day researching, and Buffy had hardly spoken two words to her in the past hour. The tension between the two of them could have been cut with a knife.

She was just about to head back down into the library when Buffy came up behind her. Neither one of them noticing the figure lurking in the corner.

"So Willow, what did you do last night, anything special?"

"Me, oh not..Nothing, I just stayed home." Willow lied nervously.

"Really. Intresting." Buffy said.

Willow looked up at Buffy and noticed the odd look on her face.

"You see I went to visit Angel to ask him something but he wasn't there."

"o...oh?" Willow said getting increasingly nervous.

"Yes. But the funny thing is I could have sworn I saw you there sleeping in his bed." Buffy finished giving Willow an icy stare.

Willow's eyes widened.

"I....I can exp.." Willow started but was cut off by Buffy.

"What were you thinking? I mean did you seriously think he would want you when he could have me or anyone else for that fact?" Buffy said condescendingly. "So did he see you or were you smart enough to get out of there before he did."

"What....Buffy why are you saying these thing to me?" Willow said fighting back tears.

I'm only telling you the truth. I know you feel lonely after your break up with Oz but that's still no reason to try to move in on *my* boyfriend."

"*Your* boyfriend? You broke up with him! You..."

"Don't you start with me Willow. Just mind your own business." Buffy said cutting Willow off.

Willow looked at Buffy with hurt eyes, unable to believe she was saying these things her.

"I....I have to go." Willow said tearfully and ran out of the library.

Buffy looked down at her friends retreating form and sighed. "Well, at least I tried."

Buffy headed back down to the main part of the library deciding it was best to have a quiet word with Angel about it tonight so he could let her down gently.

Angel came out from his hiding spot positively seething. He had been about to talk to Willow when Buffy had come up to her and had heard the entire conversation.

He could believe it. Her boyfriend! She had broken up with him! And the way she had spoken down to Willow. It had felt liked he had been ripped in two. Deciding to leave Buffy till tonight he went looking for Willow, having a good idea of where she would be.

Carefully avoiding the light shining through the windows he walked down the corridor till he reached his destination.

Willow was siting in the toilets crying when she heard a soft tap at the door. Confused that the person would not just walk in Willow wiped the tears from her eyes and asked who it was.

"Willow, it's me Angel. Can I come in?"

<Angel? But it's the middle of the day, why's he here? How does he know where I am? >

Realizing that she hadn't answered him yet Willow stood up and tried to make herself look presentable. "Come in."

Angel walked in and looked at Willow. Her hair was a mess and her face was red and puffy. It was obvious she had been crying. Walking over to her, he pulled her to him holding her close.

Looking down at her he said. "I heard what Buffy said to you Willow. I can't believe she could be that insensitive."

"It doesn't matter, she was right. Why would anyone want me when they could have her." Willow said sadly.

"What are you talking about Willow, you shouldn't put yourself down like that. You're funny and smart and beautiful and..."

"You think I'm beautiful?" Willow said looking up at Angel.

"Why wouldn't I"

"Because Buffy..."

"Buffy is pretty yes, but not beautiful. Not like you." Angel said as he slowly ran his hand over her cheek.

"But!"

"But nothing, Willow. You are beautiful. Beautiful, beautiful Willow." Angel murmured staring down at her.

Willow looked up into Angel's eyes. Mesmerised by them. Slowly she saw him lower his head down to hers. Catching her breath she looked up at him, his lips only inches away from hers. Suddenly he closed the gap between them, capturing her lips in a soft kiss.

When the kiss was over Angel pulled back slightly and looked down at Willow, trying to gage her reaction. He knew she would probably be angry with him but he just couldn't help himself.

Willow looked up at Angel shocked. <Angel kissed me. Angel kissed me. Oh god! Oh god! Oh god! >

Looking down at her Angel couldn't tell what she was thinking, and then suddenly she looked up at him and smiled shyly. Glad that she wasn't angry with him Angel leaned down to kiss Willow again.

When they broke apart Willow looked up at him, worry in her eyes.

"But...but what about Buffy?" Willow said still upset at what she had said to her and worried about how she would react to this new development.

"Don't, don't worry about it. I'll take care of Buffy." Was all Angel said before Willow pulled him down for another kiss.

END PART 7

That Night

Angel was pacing back and forth in the mansion waiting for the sun to go down so he could go looking for Buffy. He had left Willow a few hours earlier after he was sure she was going to be okay. He had promised to talk to Buffy for her and had then suggested that she go home and get some rest, promising to stop by to see her later.

<Willow> Angel thought. He still couldn't believe what had happened between them. He had no idea what had come over him in the restroom. He had kissed her, he had tried not to but he couldn't stop. Afterwards he had been prepared for her to be angry or upset at him, he hadn't however been prepared for her to kiss him back.

<I wonder if...> Angel was suddenly broken out of his thoughts as he heard the front door open. Walking into the main room Angel was shocked and slightly angered to see Buffy standing there.

"Ever heard of knocking?" Angel asked as he walked towards her.

"What?..Oh, sorry. I didn't think you'd mind." Buffy said as she walked towards Angel.

"Actually, I'm glad you here. I need to talk to you about something." Angel said. "It's about...."

"Umm...Angel." Buffy said cutting him off, "can I say what I want to say first please. It's important."

Sighing Angel nodded his head in agreement as they moved to the sofa.

"So, what did you want to talk about." Angel said even though he had a good idea.

"Willow. She's been acting kind of odd lately...strange," Buffy said, "and there's more. I think she's developed some kind of fascination with you."

"Fascination?" Angel said.

"Uh huh. I came over here the other night and I found her in *your* bed wearing one of you shirts and when I confronted her about it today she totally flipped. I tried to tell her you *obviously* wouldn't be interested in her but I don't think she was really listening to me. I think she may have a serious problem."

Angel got up and looked down at Buffy, contempt in his eyes. "Get out."

Buffy looked up at Angel shocked. "What?"

"You heard me. Get out!"

"Angel, what's....what's the matter with you? Why are you acting like this?"

"I...I cannot believe your talking about Willow this way. She's supposed to be you friend." Angel said angrily.

"She is! That's why I want to help her through it." Buffy said standing up.

"Did it ever occur to you that there may have been a reason why she was here, huh? Like the fact she was so upset with how you all were treating her that I found her walking out alone at night?"

"Treating her?" Buffy said confused, "what are you talking about Angel? We haven't treated her any different than normal."

"That's the whole point. You are so clueless sometimes Buffy. You spend all your time ignoring her unless you need help with something, don't notice that she's never home and when you do see Willow all you do is insult her. Willow was sleeping in my bed because I let her, because I wanted her too okay!"

"What? Why would you do that? Don't tell me you like her." Buffy said unable to believe what she was hearing.

"Look Buffy, my feelings for Willow are none of you business. Oh, and I heard what you said to her in the library today. I hate to point this out to you but I'm not *your* boyfriend anymore. You broke up with me remember, so I'd appreciate it if you'd stop walking in and out of my home as you please. Okay?"

Buffy looked up at Angel angrily. "Fine! Well if that's the way you feel I'll go." And with that Buffy stormed out of the mansion.

Angel sat back down on the sofa and sighed.

<Well, that could have gone better. > He thought to himself. <I hope Willow's okay. >

As Angel's thought's turned to Willow he wondered how she was. She had been through so much these past few days and Angel desperately wanted to do something to help her feel better. Coming up with a plan Angel reached for his phone and stared making some calls.
 
 

Willow's House

Willow was in the kitchen examining a package that had just been delivered to her house. Willow was about to open it when the phone rang. Walking out into the hall Willow picked the phone up.

"Hello?"

"Hi Willow, it's Angel."

"Oh, hi Angel!" Willow said happy to hear a friendly voice.

"Look Willow, I know I said I'd meet you at your house after the sun's set but I was hoping I could change our plans?"

"Oh, um sure. Okay." Willow said, her disappointment apparent. <I should have known he thought earlier was a mistake. >

Angel heard the sound of her voice and quickly realized that she had misunderstood. "No, I still want to see you Willow. Just a little bit later. Say 8 o'clock?"

Willow smiled into the phone, the relief in her voice evident. "Sure that's fine by me. Why?"

"Oh, no reason." Angel said cryptically, "One thing though."

"What?" Willow said.

"Have you received a package in the last few hours?" Angel asked.

"Yes, one came about 10 minutes ago."

"Good. Have you opened it yet?"

"No. Why?" Willow asked, her curiosity getting the better of her.

"I was just wondering. Look I have to go. There are a few things I have to do before I see you. Everything you need to know is in the parcel."

"Okay. Um Angel, what's all this about?"

"It's a surprise." Was all Angel said before he hung up the phone.

Staring into the phone for a minute at Angel's odd behaviour Willow put the phone down and headed back into the kitchen. Looking at the box cautiously she picked it up and headed for her bedroom.

Willow entered her room and placed the package carefully on her bed. Sitting down Willow lifted the lid up and removed the tissue paper and small note from inside. Willow gasped at what she saw. For sitting inside the box was the most beautiful dress Willow had ever seen. Slowly removing it from the box Willow held it against herself and looked in the mirror. It was a deep green colour with the faintest hint of blue woven in to the fabric and was made of silk. It fell down to just above her ankles with a modest slit up the side and was just low cut enough to show off the slightest hint of her breasts.

Placing the dress carefully on the bed Willow noticed several other items in the box. Reaching into it she pulled out a pair of matching shoes and gasped again as she removed a pair of hair slides lined with crystals. Looking at the slides carefully realisation hit Willow.

<Those aren't crystals. They're diamonds! > Willow looked at them in amazement wondering why Angel would go to all this expense for her.

Picking up the piece of paper Willow read the note.

Willow~

Inside this box is a gift for you. I saw the dress in a shop window the other day and bought it. I never had an excuse to give it to you until now. It's for tonight. Wear it when I come to pick you up.

I hope you like it Willow, and don't worry about the cost. You're more than worth it.

I'll see you tonight.

~Angel

Willow placed the note back on the bed and picked up the dress again. Looking at it Willow smiled and started to get ready.

<After all, I've only got 2 1/2 hours. >

End Part 8

Willow stood in her room as she finished getting ready. She was wearing the dress and matching shoes that Angel had brought for her. She had pulled her hair back off her face with the hair slides, making sure they were fixed securely in her hair so they wouldn't fall out.

<I can't believe Angel brought these for me. They're so beautiful, not to mention expensive. >

Willow was just finishing putting her make-up on when she heard the doorbell ring.

Willow took a final look at herself in the mirror, still surprised at how different she looked tonight. Quickly walking down the stairs Willow was once again thankful that her parents had gone out for the night. The last thing she needed was for them to subject Angel to the Spanish inquisition.

Angel stood outside the front door waiting for Willow to answer. He absent-mindedly fiddled with the blue velvet box in his hands while he briefly wondered if maybe Willow was having second thoughts about the recent evolution of their relationship. All thoughts of such things fled his mind however when she answered the door. She stood there looking more beautiful than he had ever seen her. She was wearing the dress he had given her and he noticed the sparkles in her hair caused by the slides.

<God she looks so beautiful, so...so angelic. > Angel thought to himself as he stood there looking at her.

"Hi Angel, come on in....Angel!" Willow said trying to get his attention.

"Sorry, did you say something?" Angel said pushing his thoughts away and focusing on Willow.

"I was inviting you in silly." Willow said smiling.

"Sorry, I got distracted." Angel said. "Wow. Willow you look beautiful."

Willow looked down at her hands and blushed. Seeing this, Angel walked over to her and lifted her head up so he could look into her eyes.

"I mean it Willow." Angel said.

"Really?"

"Yes, really." Angel said suddenly remembering the box in his hands.

"Here, I have a present for you." Angel said handing Willow the box.

Willow looked at Angel surprised. <More gifts! >

Opening the box Willow looked up at Angel overwhelmed.

"Oh Angel." Willow said at a loss for words.

"Do you like it?"

"Like it? Angel I love it!" Willow said, looking down at the necklace Angel had brought for her.

Angel smiled at Willow and moved closer to her. Taking the box from her hands Angel removed the necklace and placed the box on a nearby table. The necklace was made out of the finest silver and had a diamond heart shaped pendant suspended from it. Holding the necklace in his hands Angel gently moved her hair aside and reached around her neck to fasten the necklace on her.

Once he had finished Angel moved back slightly taking her hands in his.

Looking at their intertwined hands Willow said. "Angel, you didn't have to buy me this. I don't deserve it, it's too expensive."

Angel looked at Willow and reached up to touch her cheek taking her hand with him. "Willow, of course you deserve it. I wouldn't have brought it otherwise."

"But Angel it must have cost a fortune, I mean it's only me, little Willowy me....."

Realizing that Willow was going to start babbling Angel leaned down and kissed her, cutting her off. Pulling back slightly Angel started placing gentle kisses along Willow's jaw whispering softly to her in between each one.

"Of course...you..deserve it Willow,...my sweet,..sweet a stóirín."

Willow was about to ask what he meant when he moved back up to her lips. Willow forgot all about what she was going to say as Angel deepened the kiss, moving his hands down to her waist.

Wrapping her hands around his neck Willow pulled Angel closer to her, enjoying the feeling of his arms around her.

When Willow finally pulled away to breath something reregistered in the back of her mind.

Willow looked up at Angel and asked. " Angel, what does a stóirín mean?"

Angel looked at Willow's flushed face and smiled.

It's an Irish term of endearment," Angel explained. "It means little treasure."

Willow looked up at Angel and blushed. "It's nice, I like it."

Angel smiled at her and kissed her gently. Looking down at her and said, "Are you ready to go milady?"

Willow nodded her head and smiled. "Lead the way kind sir."

Unwrapping her hands from around his neck Angel took her hands in his and led her out of the house, towards the limousine he had hired.

"So where are going exactly?" Willow asked as Angel held the door open for her.

Getting in behind her Angel said, "I told you. It's a surprise."

And with that the limo rode off down the street and headed out of Sunnydale.

End Part 9

Somewhere outside of Sunnydale

Willow sat in the limo next to Angel and fiddled nervously with her hands as she wondered where Angel was taking her. She still couldn't quite believe that all this was happening, that she was actually going out with Angel on a date. It was almost too good to be true.

Angel looked over at Willow and noticed her hands and sighed. Reaching over he placed his hands on hers to stop their movements.

"Willow, is everything okay?" Angel asked.

"What?" Willow asked looking up at Angel.

Angel repeated the question. "Are you okay? I mean you seem kind of nervous and I wondered if you were having second thoughts about this."

"No!" Willow practically shouted out. "It's just that…."

"Just that what?"

"Well, I mean this is like a date. A real date and not just….you know hanging out together."

Angel smiled as relief flooded his body. He had, for a moment truly been worried that maybe Willow had changed her mind about the two of them. Squeezing her hand reassuringly Angel glanced out of the window and noticed they were approaching their destination.

Turing to Willow he gave her one of his smiles that she loved so much.

"We're here." Angel said.

Willow looked out of the window and sure enough found that the limo was slowing down. Nervousness and excitement started flooding her body at the same time.

As if sensing her nervousness Angel leaned over to Willow and turned her to face him. Flashing her a quick smile he leaned over and gently kissed her in an attempted to ease away her worry. From the way Willow relaxed into his arms he was pretty sure it had been effective.

After the limo had come to a stop Angel reluctantly untangled himself from Willow, and got out to walk around to open Willow's door. Nodding her head in thanks Willow took Angel's proffered hand and allowed him to lead her down a gravel path towards a stone building. Entering the building Willow was taken aback by its beauty. It was elegantly furnished and had an antique look about it.

As Willow stood admiring the lobby a man approached them and led them down a hallway. As they approached a door at the end of the hall Angel stopped and looked at Willow.

"Close you eyes."

"Pardon?"

"Close your eyes Willow, trust me."

Doing as he asked Willow slowly closed her eyes and allowed Angel to guide her the remainder of the way down the corridor.

"Open your eyes."

Willow did as she was asked and drew in a breath at the sight before her. They were standing in a beautiful dining room. Standing in the middle of the room was a lone table, elegantly laid out and fit for a queen. Taking in the rest of the room Willow noticed dozens of candles scattered about the room and the soft playing of music in the background.

Turing towards Angel she tried to find the words to express what she was feeling.

"Angel, I don't know what to say. I…"

"Shhhhh" Angel said putting a finger to her lips. "You don't have to say anything."

Taking her hand he led her to the table and held her chair out for her. Taking his own seat Angel picked up a bottle of wine and filled both their glasses. Lifting his up he motioned for Willow to do the same. Hesitating for only a moment Willow raised her glass and looked at Angel.

"A toast," Angel said. "To us and the evening to come."

Clinking glasses Willow and Angel drank their wine, both wondering about the evening ahead.

End Part 10

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