Rating: I'll go out on a limb, and say that through this story there'll be slight sexual content, plus some violence, so I'll slap it with an PG-14, for now. That's subject to change, though.
Spoiler: Becoming
Feedback: Yes!! I'm trying to spread out my writing experience, by writing with different characters, so I'd love to hear how this goes over.
Distribution: just let me know, please
Disclaimer: The characters of the following story are due entirely to Joss Whedon.
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"Giles?" Willow picked up the phone. <<He better have a really good reason for calling at three in the morning!>> "What is it?"
"Angel's called to say he's found her."
Silence. <<Good reason...>>
"Willow?"
<<Buffy's been found!>> "Giles, that's great. It's greater than great. When are they coming home?"
Giles drew in a deep breath, "Soon. He convinced Buffy instantly to return, and daylight is all that's keeping them. I suppose I'll call you when I hear more?"
"Yeah, that'd be great." <<Buffy's coming home!!!>>
"Get some sleep. I'll see you tomorrow."
"'Kay, bye." She hung the phone up, and flopped back down on the bed. She was alseep instantly.
"Agh!" She lept out of bed, to hear the phone ringing. <<It's only three thirty!>> "Giles?"
"Willow, I'm terribly sorry for calling, but,they just called again."
"And?"
He replied, "They're coming home now."
Willow panicked, "They only have a few hours, Giles. What if Angel gets dusted?" She was worried for the vampire. Her feelings for him had changed since she had saved him from Hell. She was scared of him at first, but when she saw how badly he was hurt, she just had a feeling that he needed a friend. That's what she was to him. Over time, the bond had grown between them. He showed her a taste for art and fine literature, while she showed him how to use a computer and surf the internet. Next to Xander, he was a best friend.
"He won't, Willow. It's only a two hour drive, if they drive quite fast."
"And if they get caught by the police?"
Giles spoke rationally, "At this hour, Willow?"
"You're right," She then changed the subject, "What time will they be arriving? Where will they be?"
Giles thought long and hard for a moment, "I believe Buffy will be staying in his home for a while, until a settlement can be reached with her mother. But, Buffy said she'd meet us at the library."
"Okay. I'll be there, around five thirty?"
Giles agreed, "That would be great," He then asked, "Could I let you go? I have to call the others."
"Sure. 'Bye." <<They're coming home.>>
Willow walked quickly to her destination. She knew that there coul be some very hungry vampires out at this hour, so close to dawn, they might even be desperate if they hadn't gotten any other food. She held her cross necklace tight, and double-checked for the stake, which she had tucked in her waistband, along her back where it was concealed by her shirt. <<Like Buffy....>> She mused, <<And, she's coming home.>>
"Well, well," A familiar voice called behind her, "Where are we off to in such a hurry? And at this hour!" Spike appeared in her line of vision, as she turned her head. <<Damn, how'd he get here?>>
"I was, uh, out for my daily walk."
"In shoes like those?" He pointed to her platform sneakers, "That can't be good for your ankles, Luv."
Willow nodded, "I'm having a tall day." She glanced at her watch, "I really should be going."
"Here," He said, producing a small green package from his coat pocket, "This is for you?"
"What's the occasion?"
He smiled almost innocently, making her heart melt, "It's for you on Buffy's homecoming."
"Thanks," She eyed him warily, "I think." She looked down at the package, and then up at him again. But he was gone.
"Spike gave this to you?" Giles saw the package, "You musn't open it, Willow. I advise-"
"What if he was being sincere?" She shrugged, "But, he diudn't get anything for Buffy, or anyone else-"
Cordelia stomped in, Xander on her heels, carrying a similar package, only hers was red, "Who gave this to me?!" She huffed, "First, I thought it was Xander, but he has one, too. And he has two others for Buffy and Angel. Weird, much."
"I'm a little wigged." Xander admitted.
Willow rolled her eyes, "It's just Spike."
"Wh-what?" Cordelia flipped, "Why is he giving me gifts. He's, like, dead! Ew....!" She shuddered, and then retreated to Xander's arms. <<Geez, what a wimp!>>
Xander spoke next, "It's not Christmas, so, why is he being so generous."
"It's very unlike a vampire to be so generous. I'm baffled."
"Has anyone opened one yet?" He then asked, "Willow, why don't you-"
"I'll open it when I want to, Xander. Go ahead, open yours."
Giles agreed, "Yes, Xander. If you're so curious, go ahead." Xander took the his blue wrapping paper like a little boy at Christmas. Once that was all shredded, he opened the tiny box. Inside, there was a ring. A Celtic cross-styled pewter ring, with little tiny jewels amidst the links in the designs.
"This is cool." He marvelled, looked at it, "But, what am I supposed to do with it?"
"Wear it?" Willow suggested. <<It's so precious! I love it.>> "It is a ring, Xander."
"Aren't rings out this season for guys, Cordy?"
She hsook her head, and smiled, "Actually, this one could make an exception. It's gorge!"
Even Giles had something nice to say about it, "That must be worth something. May I see it?"
"As long as you don't pawn it off, G-Man."
Giles took the ring from the boy's hands carefully, "Don't call me that." He grumbled, studying the ring, "This is very old. Very old, indeed." He studied it closer, handed it back to him, and walked to his private book collection, where he found a book on stolen jewels of Europe.
"What's he looking for?" Cordy whispered,
"Aha!" Giles called triumphantly, "It's a piece of jewelry from an Irish nobleman's son. He was to become the richest man in the continent after his father's death, until he was robbed after his disappearance."
"Mystically?" Xander asked sarcastically,
"Perhaps."
<<Why?>> "Why is he giving us this stuff? It could be worth millions!"
"He certainly doesn't want us to become rich."
She shot down Giles' suggestion, "Maybe he just wants to be nice?" Willow watched while the other two opened their gifts. Giles got a pair of cufflinks, with sparkling stones adorning the tops, while Cordelia recieved a hair clip, shaped like a butterfly. "Wow."
"Why don't you open yours?"
"I will when I want to."
Xander huffed, "She probably got the best gift."
"Xander," Giles started, restraining himself, "This is probably one of his sick games. I don't think we should joke about it."
A confused voice called from the library's doors, "Uh, guys?"
End Part 1
"Buffy, it's so great to have you back," Xander said, "And Dead-Boy, too."
"Gee," Angel's voice dripped sarcasm, "It's so nice to be missed."
Willow could feel the tension rising between the duo, although it seemed like Buffy was oblivious to it all--with good understanding, she was very overwhelmed with the night's activities, "Guys! Could we please stop?" She then remembered their gifts, "Here," She produced them, "Spike left these for you." Buffy opened hers immediately, and found a gold bracelet. Willow thought she heard Angel gasp, but she wasn't sure.
Angel eyed his wearily, but opened it. Inside, there was a locket. It was a silver diamond, and fairly large for a woman's charm. It had nice floral scrolls printed on it, and it was attached to a silver chain. Angel cursed in Gaelic, and then opened it. There was a tiny key, which fell out instantly, and the picture inside of it was a small sketch. Willow found it impossible for anyone to sketch that small, but Angel recognized it immediately.
"I can't believe him." He cursed for a while in Gaelic, and when he was finished, everyone noted the tears leaking from his eyes.
Buffy put her hand on his arm, as if to soothe him, "What is it?"
"This, it was my mother's," He pointed to the locket, "I drew the picture. It was for her birthday," Then he pointed at the bracelet, "That was my sister's."
"Oh. I'm sorry," She shook her head, "You can have it then-"
"No, it'll look good on you," He paused, and looked up at the others, "What did you guys get?"
Giles spoke up first, "Cufflinks." He produced them,
"My father's."
"I got this clip." Cordy showed it off,
"My other sister's."
Xander was last to show his gift, "Is this your ring?"
"Yes."
He took a deep breath befroe complementing the vampire, "You had style, man. This thing's a beaut'!" Surprised stares landed on him.
"Willow?"
"I d-didn't open mine yet."
Angel smiled, "You can keep whatever's inside." He then said to all of them, "You can all keep them, just treat them well."
A chorus of thank you's filled the room, and then a baffled group went to work on solving the mystery, while Angel disappeared to brood.
Willow flopped down on her bed at the end of the day, her mind running through the day's events. <<Poor Angel...>> And then, curiousity struck her. She opened her bag, and rumaged for Spike's gift. She opened it, and to her surprise there were two little packages. She opened the larger one first, and it was a journal. Angel's journal.
<<Wow..I didn't know he could write such beautiful poetry.>> Inside, there were pages of poetry. The serious, soul-stirring kind. There were also sketches, like the one of his mother. There were pages devoted to her eyes, hair, nose, chin, and forehead, and a few with the whole thing put together. <<This is amazing!>>
The phone's ringing startled her, but she reached across her bed, to her night table, "Hi?"
"It's Angel," He was upset, "Could you stop by?"
She replied quickly, "Sure, what's the problem?"
"I just need someone to talk to. Buffy's talking with her mother, and-"
Willow cut him off, "Say no more. I'll be there in a few minutes."
"Angel, I opened one of Spike's gifts," She started, after they sat down on his sofa, "And, I can't keep it, no matter what you say. It belongs to you."
"What is it?" He asked, obviously intrigued.
"It's one of your journals. It has poetry, and sketches in it. I didn't read any of the entries, I didn't want to snoop," She produced it from her jacket pocket, "So, here. Take it." <<Will he be mad that I opened it?>>
Angel refused, "I told you that you could keep it."
"Isn't a diary something you don't want anyone to read?" She asked, confused.
He chuckled, "Willow, I want you to have it. To remember me by."
<<What's he striving at?>> "What do you-"
"I'm leaving."
She choked, "Wh-what?!"
He looked down, unable to look her in the eyes, "It's better that way. I'm leaving the place to Buffy, so she can stay in Sunnydale. I can't stay. Too many things have changed and you guys don't trust me."
"I trust you."
He glanced up, and met her comforting eyes, "I'm sorry, Willow, I don't want to leave, but I have to. Buffy looks at me all the time, so confused, and it hurts."
"When are you going?"
"Tonight." He answered firmly.
Her lower lip trembled, "You can't go," She started, blind panic filling her heart, "I mean, who else can I talk to? I could talk to Xander or Buffy, but, it's not the same. You protected me! Who's going to save me from vampies now?"
He stopped her tears with his gentle hands, which brushed them away, "Stop that, Will'. You don't need me."
"Right," She rolled her eyes sarcastically, "I need you. Buffy needs you-"
"Buffy needs to date someone with a pulse. Not me. I'm the whole reason we're in this mess."
"Don't say that." Willow tried to comfort him.
He straightened up slightly, "I'm leaving tonight. No one's stopping me."
"Not even me? Or Buffy?"
He studied her for a moment, "Why do you always do that? It's like you're trying to hold onto my attention by using her name all the time."
"I just assume guys would rather hear about her."
"Why?"
He took her hand to comfort her as she spoke, "She's so much more prettier than me, and she's always witty, and-"
"You're gorgeous. You're so smart. And, I know you won't believe me, but you're pretty witty, too."
"Yeah," She rolled her eyes, "That's me. Witty Willow."
"See?" He smiled, "I wouldn't trade you for anyone else."
Now Willow was confused, "Huh?"
"I've loved you for some time," He admitted, "I didn't want to hurt you, or get you into my dangerous life, so, I vowed to protect you. I had always hoped we could be friends."
"Since when?"
He answered, "Since I saw you the night before Buffy arrived."
<<Why don't I ever find these things out!?>> "Why didn't you tell me?"
"I love you, and I never want to hurt you." And then, he leaned forward and kissed her.
End Part 2
"Angel," Buffy choked, "I'm going to miss you so much. I still don't-" He silenced her with his fingers, which brushed her lips gently,
"I'll be back," He promised, "You will see me again. Just, not now. You have too much to deal with," He reached for her hand, and noticed something, "You're wearing Logan's bracelet. It looks good on you."
"Logan?"
"My sister."
She nodded in understanding, "I better leave. I don't want to see you go. I might run after you." He nodded, and kissed her one last time. XAnder and Cordelia, who had already said their good-byes, offered to walk with her, leaving Willow and ANgel alone.
<<Poor Buffy. It must be hard on her, not wanting to see him go, but at the same time->>
"Willow?" Angel spoke, knocking her from her thoughts.
"Angel, I-"
He smiled down at her, "You want me to go after her, don't you?" She nodded, "This is for the best. The best for everyone."
"Not me. I don't want to see you leave."
He spat out, slightly annoyed with everyone for not letting him go without guilt, "Then maybe you should've left with the others."
<<What's he saying?>> She fell into silence, leaning against his rented car. THis man loved her, but he wasn't staying with her, and he was already devoted to Buffy. Once again, she lost someone she loved to Buffy. But she wasn't sour about it. She didn't have a mean bone in her body.
"Will, I'm sorry for snapping," He appologized, reaching for her hand, which she gave to him, "I just don't know what to do."
"Stay."
He chuckled, "Oh, Willow. That's one of the reasons why I love you. Your persistance." He rubbed her cheek. She closed her eyes, and smiled.
"Thanks."
"For what?"
She opened her eyes, "For saying that. It doesn't have to be true, but-"
"What about Oz?" He totally changed the subject.
<<Oz...>> She had forgotten about him, in the recent exciting events. He had been away, visiting relatives for a week. He hadn't called at all, and as the old saying goes, "Out of sight, out of mind." She smiled, "He--"
"He doesn't deserve you. A man should earn your love. Something I haven't done."
She spoke with sarcasm again, "No, you've only saved my life a gazillion times!"
He chuckled again, and then stole a kiss.
"Mmmmm." She purred, pulling away, "What did I do to earn that?" She laughed,
"You don't need to earn anything." <<Why is he so like that?>> "Did I deserve that kiss?"
She nodded, "That one, and many more, except you're not going to be here to, uh, cash them in." He smiled,
"How about I call you, and stay in touch? Maybe if I get a computer, I'll figure out that damned e-mail."
She hugged him, "I'd love that!" <<Ow..what is that?!>> She felt in her pocket. <<Oh, right. I better return this.>> "Angel," She pulled the journal out of her pocket, "You're taking this. I don't want you angry cuz I read it, or-"
"You can have it, and furthermore, you can read it. I couldn't care less." He checked his watch, "I better go."
"Okay." He bent down and kissed her once more. This time, it held much pent-up passion, that couldn't have been wasted on anyone else, "Please don't go..." She wined after he pulled back, but the look in his eyes told her it was no use, "Okay, just call once and a while, huh?"
"I promise."
"Earth to Willow!" Buffy snapped her finger in attempts to alert her friend, a few days after Angel had left, "I have a reason to be down, but you?"
She shrugged, not telling her the main reason why she was so upset, "No one understood it. I taught him about the computer, he showed me art, and those artsy novels that he used to read. I miss it. I miss him."
"I know. But we can survive, right?" Willow plastered a smile upon her face, and nodded, to cheer her friend up. <<Why wasn't Angel straight about this to her?>>
"Right."
"Hi?" Willow picked the phone up, which interupted her from doing some of her homework. <<Oh well, it was only a sheet of questions. I'll survive--it's probably Xander, with some dumb question.>> As much as she loved her friend, he annoyed her so much, with his silly problems.
"Hey, Willow." <<Angel!>>
"Hey yourself!" She perked up, glad it wasn't Xander, "Where are you?"
He replied, "I can't tell you that."
"You don't trust me?" <<Why can't he tell me? I can't go to Buffy, because then she'd be angry at both of us. Come to think of it, why is he loving me. I thought he loved Buffy!>>
He instantly caved in, "Alright," He chuckled at her delight, "Just, don't tell anyone else, okay?"
"I promise, just tell me!"
He paused, and if he was human, he would've drawn in a deep breath, "I'm in Canada."
"Wow, you travelled pretty fast. How did you-" She wanted to know how he got across the border without questions. Surely, he'd raise a few.
"I had a passport made. An Irish one," He cut her off, "I drove across. SImple as that," He changed the subject, "I miss you."
<<What about Buffy?>> Willow fought back the tears, "I miss you, too. I only found this great news out the day before you left. I wish there was more time."
"Me too." <<He's not addressing the issue, is he?>>
"Angel?"
"Hmmm?"
She inhaled deeply before answering, "What did you tell Buffy?"
He was obviously taken off guard, "Wh-what?"
"Well," She started, "Scenario. Your good-bye party. You tell Buffy all these great couple things, and then, you kiss me. What's up with that?"
She had hit a sore spot, and both of them knew it, "Willow, I don't want to hurt either of you-"
"I knew I'd lose to her."
"Don't go there, Willow. It's not that at all," He reassured her, "Actually, I didn't know how to break it off with her. I figured this trip would give us a bit of distance."
Willow wasn't stupid, she knew what he was doing, "You can't hide from her. Both of you will have to face this, the minute you get back. She won't give up on you, and if youjust leave her hanging, well, she IS the Slayer and all," She heard him chuckled, "And, you owe that to her. Furthermore, you owe it to me."
"You're right."
"I am?"
"Yes, Willow Rosenburg, you are right. Hit it right on the nail."
She was impressed, "Wow. I was right about something relationship-wise. Wow." She was in awe at her abilities.
"Why do you do that?"
"Huh?"
Angel pressed on, "You discredit yourself all the time. Like you're inferior, or something."
"Well, I am."
"To whom?"
She spat the name out, "Buffy."
Angel was floored with disbelief. This girl believed that the Slayer was 100 times better than her, from the sound of her voice, and no amount of persuading could delude her from believing anything else, "I wish I was there right now, so I could prove you otherwise. That is the only thing you're wrong about, Will'. The only thing. Why can't you believe in yourself more?"
"'Cause there's always someone prettier than me."
"Willow," His voice was full of mock-warning, trying to lighten the subject, "Do I have to come all the way back home and make you believe me?"
"How would you do that?"
"I'd kiss you. I'd hold you close, and enjoy the feel of your body in my arms. ANd," He paused, "I'd tell you that I love you."
"I wish you were here, too." She joked.
There was a commotion around Angel, "Um, Willow, I have to go."
"What province are you in?"
"Québec."
Willow was impressed that he got that far, "You flew?"
"No." He chuckled, "I'll call you later." And with that, he was gone, leaving a sad, lonely Willow clinging to the phone.
End Part 3
While doing her homework the next day, the little gift was calling to her. Next to it, there was the diary, something she didn't want to read. She didn't want to violate Angel, by reading it. But the wrapped gift next to the leather novel was speaking to her. Looking at her. Begging her, inviting her to read it. <<Oh well>>
She walked over, and picked it up. Opening it quickly, she saw a ring. An engagement ring. A piece of paper fell out,
***Willow. Since Dru left, I've been very lonely. I saw you in a different light, and I'm enjoying what I see. I cou lshow you the world, treat you nice, put you up in a fancy pad somewhere. With me, of course. Please consider my offer, Pet. I'd do anything for you. -Spike.***
<<Whoa.>> She stared at the note, and then at the ring. She didn't know what to think. <<But, Angel.>> She resolved to tell him about this the next time he called. <<Why does Spike want me? I mean, I'm not exactly great vampire material.>>
The phone rang, "Hello?"
It was Buffy, "Hey, bud! You want to go do something tonight?"
"Like what?" Although she already knew that they'd end up going to the Bronze.
But, Buffy surprised her, "Well, how about we have a girl talk session. I think we have some catching up to do."
She stiffened, hoping Angel wouldn't be the topic of dicussion, but she knew that she'd feel awkward being in his house, and all, "Sure. I'll run over whenever I can."
"How about you hurry? Like before sunset hurry."
"I'll see what I can do."
<<Who's following me?? I can feel him, but I can't see him...>> "Spike? Is that you?"
He came out of the shadows, laughing, "Hello, Luv. How are you, on this fine evening?"
She nodded in reply, "Good."
"That's great," He responded, and then asked, "Did you get my gift?"
"Yes. Everyone was surprised that you stole Angel's things."
He smiled, "Those were old trophies. When I was learning, Angel didn't care about material things, especially the ones of his parents and family. And girlfriend."
"Girlfriend?"
"Fiancée, actually," He admitted, "They were supposed to get married the day after he had been changed. So, of course, he left her standing on that bloody aisle. And then, I believe, he killed her. I don't quite remember the story," He shrugged it off, "Anyway, how is the old Angel?"
"He's gone on a trip." Willow remained tight-lipped. <<He's not getting ANY info out of me!!>>
"Did he kiss you good-bye?" Willow's eyes bugged out of her head, "I know lots of things, Luv. I saw you two, smooching behind Buffy's back. She'd kill him, if she ver found out, you know," He added, "But, don't worry, I won't tell. As much as I'd love to see Angel die, I know it would hurt you terribly. Wouldn't want to risk that."
"Thanks, I think." <<Why's he here?>>
He approached her, "But, did you ever think about what will happen when Angel returns, and finds out that he loves Buffy more?" She shook her head, "Just so you know, I'll be there, if you ever want a shoulder to cry on."
"I really have to go. Buffy's expecting me."
He nodded, excusing her, "Ta ta."
Buffy woke up first, and saw Willow, spralled out on the couch, out top of her blankets, clutching her pillow and teddy bear close to her body. She smiled, as the girl tossed, her eyelids fluttering as a smile spread across her face. She was dreaming about Angel, but Buffy didn't know that.
"Angel...."
Until that point. Terror filled the Slayer's heart, feeling threatened by her friends feelings. Shaken up, she walked into the kitchen, where she made breakfast.
<<Angel.....>> Willow woke up, thinking of him. <<I can't help it. He's always on my mind.>> And then, another vampire flew in, banishing the first from her mind. <<Spike.>> She was clearly confused. She had to get some air.
"Willow?" Buffy called when she heard her moving around, "C'mon in, breakfast is ready!"
"I'll, uh, be right there." She called back, slipping her shirt on. <<What can I tell her? I don't want to eat. I just want out.>> She started to walk into the bathroom, when she saw a book sitting on a table in front of the door. It happened to be one of the books Angel had promised that she could read. <<Would he mind?>>She picked it up, and whisked into the bathroom.
She shut the door, and opened the book. <<Hamlet.>> She had read one version in high school,but this was the original. Angel had purchased it shortly after Shakespeare had published it. Flipping through the first few pages, a piece of paper fell out. Being the curious Willow that she was, she opened it. <<Oh my--->>
***Dear Willow, I knew that you'd find this book. I knew Buffy'd invite you over, so I put it out for you to find. I figured she wouldn't read it. I want you to have this book, and if you're uncomfortable about it, keep it until I get back. I don't expect you to wait for me. In fact, if you feel awkward about any of this, I understand, and will support you. If you want to back off, could we at least stay friends? Take care, until I see you again, Angel.***
<<Oh, Angel.>> She put the book in the bag which contained had contained her clothes, and proceded to wash up. <<You're too nice.>>
"Will'? You coming?"
<<Argh! Might as well stay for a while longer...>> "Coming!!"
Xander and Cordelia met Willow at the park that morning. Buffy had called their friends, telling them that she was worried about Willow. She didn't mention why she was worried, but it didn't matter. Xander, being the caring friend he is, decided to drag Cordy away from her personal trainer, and hunt down Willow.
"Willow!"
<<My own personal baby-sitters. Just what everyone wants.>> She rolled her eyes as the romantic duo ran up to her.
"Buffy was worried about you. Said you acted funny."
Willow shrugged it off, "I'm just not in a good mood. That's all. Tired, and stress, and stuff." She lied.
Xander knew she was lying, but he didn't call her on it. Cordy spoke up, trying to break the ice, "Any gossip you guys dished at the party?"
<<Geez, does this girl ever get tired of hunting down information?>> "Nope. We just gabbed. Spanked our inner moppets." She joked.
"Well," Xander said, "I guess you have a handle on things."
"Yup," Willow nodded cooly, "I'm not having any issues."
Cordy nodded, and turned away, walking back to her car. Xander was about to follow, but he turned back, and whispered in her ear, "You do too have issues. I'll call later."
"Xander..." She growled, loud enough for only him to hear. Cordy was too busy yelling at Xander to hurry up.
End Part 4
<<I don't know why I've changed. It just happened. Maybe I'm growing up. I can't remember thinking like this before.>> She was still walking. She knew her parents might be worried about her, but she was so restless, that she didn't know quite what to do. Her thoughts were so messed up, between Angel and Spike, and everything was out of whack. She was so confused. She kicked a rock, and down the dark street. watched it roll
"You out alone, Pet?" Spike appeared alongside of her.
"Yup," She looked up at him and smiled, "Just thinking."
He inquired further, "'Bout what?"
<<Should I say??>> She took a deep breath, "You."
He opened his eyes in surprise, "Really?" She nodded, "I'm flattered, really."
<<Where's this going??>> "Really?"
"Really," He took her hand, "Would you like to go to the Bronze?"
<<He seems so human now.>> She looked down at her clothes, noting that they weren't exactly club clothes, "Well, I'm kinda not dressed for it--"
"Aw, you look fine to me," He looked her over.
"Why are you doing this? Are you going to kill me or something?" She blurted out as they neared the Bronze.
He laughed, "Luv, I can't believe you'd think that," He paused, "Well, I have tried to kill you and your friends before, but not know. I feel for ya, Pet." He squeezed her hand as they walked into the Bronze.
<<Oh no...>> She saw her friends around their usual table. <<What are they going to think?>> "Um..."
"You still want to do this?"
"I'm just scared Buffy will try to kill you." She heard him laugh, but he didn't answer. Instead, he led her to the dance floor. She ignored Buffy's stares, and went with Spike. She didn't know what was going through her mind. First, she thought she was in love with Angel. And now, she was allowing Spike to sweep her off her feet.
They stopped in the middle of the crowded floor, where many couples were dancing. She placed her hands on his shoulders, as he wrapped his arms around her tiny waist. They danced for a while, before he mused, "You're so tiny."
She chuckled, as she relaxed against his chest, swaying to the music in his arms, "Don't try any funny business, Buddy," She tapped him lightly, "I don't want to become a vampire's meal."
"Don't worry. I promise I won't hurt a hair on your head." He hugged her closer, enjoying the feel of her warmth against his cold body. Willow glanced up once, to see Buffy approaching, "Slayer, six o'clock." He muttered. Willow nodded, and closed her eyes again, but Buffy interupted them as soon as she arrived at her destination, "Well, hullo, Slayer."
Willow was silent. <<She's going to be hurt.>> "Willow," Buffy hissed, "What are you doing?"
"Dancing." She replied plainly. She could feel Spike chuckle silently, making her feel ashamed. <<I just gave my best friend a nasty brush off.>>
"What's wrong with you, Willow?"
"Can't I go on a date without everyone asking questions?!" <<Obviously she didn't take that for an answer. Are all slayer's this stubborn?>>
Buffy retorted back, refering to Spike, "Not when you in the arms of Public Enemy Number One."
"I'm not going to hurt you," Spike growled, "But, I might hurt you if you don't leave us alone." Buffy nodded, and backed off. Willow exhaled, relaxing already, as Spike questioned, "This is a date?"
She nodded rationally, "Well, we're dancing closely, at the Bronze, and we both share feelings for each other. I call it a date. What do you call it?"
He smiled, and looked down at her, "I call it a date."
She looked up at him, and changed the subject, "Where's Dru?"
"She was so angry at me for helping Slayer with stopping Angelus, Red, she just left. I had no reason to stay away from Sunnydale anymore, so I came back."
"Oh."
"Well, I guess this is good-night." Willow stood on her front porch, looking at Spike.
"Yup, I guess it is, Red." She smiled at the new pet name he thought up for her. <<He is cute. I guess being scared of him never let me think of him that way.>> He cleared his throat, "I want to kiss you, but I'm not sure how you'd feel about--" She leaned up, grabbing the back of his head, and kissed him, "That answers my question." He pursued the kiss further, deepening it, creating more passion.
"Whoa." She pulled back with a shy smile. <<I've never been pushy like that, nor kissed like that. He's so--->>
"I'll see you tomorrow night?"
"Of course. Where will I meet you?"
He bowed his head in though for a moment, before speaking, "How about I meet you right here. When the sun sets?" She nodded, stealing a quick kiss from him before entering the house, "Bye, Red." He whispered as she walked in the house.
"Mom? Dad?" She called, walking towards the sitting room, "I'm sorry I didn't call. I--" She looked in the room, to see Buffy and Xander sitting there, "What the hell?"
"We need to talk."
End Part 5
<<I wish they'd stop meddling!>> Willow noticed that her parents weren't there, "Where's Mom and Dad?" She asked.
Xander answered, by waving a piece of paper, "'Nanna was sick,'" He read, "'So we headed out on the first plane possible. I will call tomorrow, Mom.'"
"Oh." <<I hope she's alright!!>> She sat down in an armchair, across from the sofa, where Xander and Buffy sat. "What do you want to talk to me about? Or are you just meddling?"
"Where'd the attitude come from?" BUffy inquired, "One minute, you're all nice and fuzzy, and the next, you're with Spike, and leaving us behind. What's up?"
Willow rolled her eyes, "We were only dancing. It's not like--"
"You were just going to wait until he tried to kill you?" Xander cut in, "I get it now. Willow's lost her mind."
She was fuming inside, and for so long she's never expressed her negative, agry feelings towards anyone. She's always been the calm, collected one. <<I wish they'd leaveme alone!! How dare they try and run my life for me!>> "When I need help running my life, I'll come to you. But, until then, please mind your own god damned business!" She stood up and stormed out of the room.
"When did she turn pyscho Willow on us?" Xander muttered after the door slammed shut.
<<How dare they!>> Willow slammed a few things around, still fuming from her friends' act. <<They think they can control me?!>>
*tap, tap, tap* <<Huh?>> She whirled around and saw Spike at her window, "Hey, Red."
"If Buffy sees you here, she'll kill you. They're still downstairs."
He chuckled, "Good show you put on. I watched it."
She smiled, "I was angry. They shouln't be able to order me around. Especially Buffy."
"Good to see you have a backbone."
"I just found it." She walked over, and kissed him lightly on the cheek, hanging her head outside the window. <<I just won't invite him in.>>
He looked surprised, "What was that for?"
"Being you." <<I don't know why I'm so attracted to him. It's so hard to describe. He's not like Angel at all.>> "We still on for tomorrow?" She asked. He nodded, and he reached for her, to kiss her again. This time it was much mroe passionate. He deepened it with his tongue, and she did the same, enjoying the new experience.
"Will'!" Buffy interupted them, by banging on the door, "Can I come in?"
Spike nodded, and kissed her one last time before whispering, "Tomorrow. Sunset. Your porch." And then, he disappeared.
"Come in." She sighed, flopping down on the bed. Buffy opened the door, and walked in. Alone.
"Xander headed home." She explained.
"Oh." Willow tried to ignore her friend, but it was hard. The good side of her wanted to appologize, but she kept her thoughts planted deeply in her head. <<I'm not giving in to what she wants. No, no, no.>>
"I'm sorry," Buffy started, "I guess we had no right--"
Willow cut in, "Darn Tootin'."
Buffy smiled, "Okay, we had no right to try and tell you who to date, but we're worried."
"Go worry about someone else. I'm fine."
"But Spike--"
"--cares for me. He admitted feelings for me, Buffy. It's a nice feeling, he's protected me," She lied, "And we've become close."
She shook her head, "I can't believe it. I thought I was crazy for dating Angel. Even he had a soul. Or, maybe Spike's the crazy one here." She covered her mouth a little too late.
"Why?" That hurt Willow, "He's crazy because he's dating me?!" She stressed, "I may not be pretty, or cute, but Spike really seems to like me, and I'm not going to throw that away because Miss America told me to!"
"Ahem," Giles cleared his throat, startling Willow, who was seated at the table, studying something on her laptop, "Willow?"
"Hi, Giles."
He walked over to where she sat, and pulled up a chair, "I want to talk to you."
<<Geez, Buffy, when's this gonna stop?>> She sighed, "Did Buffy put you up to this?"
He nodded, "Yes, but before you shut yourself out to advice, please hear me out, and I promise to hear you out," Willow nodded politely, so he continued with a heavy-hearted sigh, "Everyone's concerned about you, and Buffy took it very bad. She came to me this morning, first thing."
<<She has to, because Principal Snyder would crucify her for being in the building.>> Willow nodded, and simply sighed.
"I know I'm not a master at troubles of the heart, but it seems to be bothering her so much, and it has me quite worried. Spike's been a cause for trouble in the past, and I don't want you getting involved. If he hurt you, Willow, how would I explain it to your parents?"
"He's not going to hurt me."
He raised his eyebrows, "Do you know that for sure?" She nodded, "How?"
She didn't want to tell him about the lletter that came witht he ring, or how they went on a date, so she cried out weakly, "I just do, okay? I trust him. Instead of trying to meddle in everyone else's lives, I think she should just take care of her own." She spoke coldly.
Giles picked up on the feelings of resentment between the two girls, "Did you guys fight?"
<<I might as well tell him...>> She mustered up enough courage, and then, chickened out, "I don't know if we should drag you into this."
"No, I'd like to try and help, if I could."
"Well, I believe it started when Buffy stalked me home, when I was perfectly fine with Spike. Then, they somehow go into the house before me, and were in my living room when I walked in the house. Buffy proceded to follow me to my room, where she lectured me more, and then, continued to tell me that Spike's crazy for dating little ol' mousy me." She took a breath, "Tell me who's hurt who more, Giles. I've never had a lot of guys hanging off me like she has. I never had anyone. No one was there to give me support when I needed, and right now, Spike is. I've never had this before, Giles, and I'm not about to throw it away for anyone."
"Well," He sighed, after listening to her, "I don't think I shoul be the judge of this. If Spike is treating you kindly, and he hasn't threatened you, well, I'll trust your judgement."
"Will you tell Buffy to, uh, leave me alone?"
<<Talk about timing.>> Buffy walked in at that very moment, despite the fact that Snyder was walking around.
"No," He replied, "I think you shoul tell her the same thing you told me." He glanced at them both, "I have an errand to run. Would you girls please settle this?"
"Sure, Giles." Willow replied as Buffy sat down at the other end of the table. He eft them alone, "Well...where to start?"
She cleared her throat, "Will', I'm really sorry. I didn't mean it like that."
"Yes, you did. I don't quite think you know how it feels, and no, you can't take it back."
Buffy nodded, and lowered her eyes, "I just want to make things right between us."
"Oh."
"Is there anything I can do? Please,you don't know how sorry I am."
"And you don't know how hurt I am." <<I'm not making up this easily.>>
Buffy nodded, "I have an idea," She sighed, "ANything, you name it, I'll do it. Please."
"Okay," Willow breathed, "You chill around Spike and me. All I ask if for you to relax. That's it--can you do it?"
"I'll try. It's not going to be easy for me to try and be friendly with someone that I spent the last year trying to kill."
Willow smiled, "That's all I'm asking."
"Well, I accept," She smiled at Willow, "Hug?"
Willow laughed, deep inside knowing it wasn't over, but glad to smooth things over, for everyone's sake, "Hug!"
End Part 6
"Could I call you Will?" A few weeks later, they were walking back from a quiet night at the park. Things had progressed between them, and they both knew that they were in love.
"I'd prefer Spike," He looked into her eyes, "But, I guess we could go as the Two Wills, Red. If you want to."
She laughed, "I never thought of that. Will' Rosenburg and Will the, uh, Bloody." Silence fell over the girl, who was studying the full moon, thinking of Oz and wondering where he was, until Spike spoke,
"What do you expect of me?"
"Huh?"
He started again, "Do you expect me to stop killing, 'cause as much as I love you," He slipped her hand in his, "I can't stop. I can't go to packaged blood, like your buddy Angel."
"As long as you don't kill anyone I know, I'll try and accept it. It's only fair."
He squeezed her hand, "Thanks," He changed the subject, "These past few nights have been amazing, and I know it will all change, the minute your good lil' boy returns back from Québec."
"You know when he's coming back?" She asked hesitantly, not wanting to face him when he returned, "How did you know?"
"I have my feelers out," He looked into her eyes, "He's coming back tomorrow night, if all goes as planned."
Willow nodded, and huddled in closer to Spike, not saying a word. <<How am I going to do this?>> He held her closer, and they headed back to her house.
The next evening, while Willow was preparing for another night out with Spike, the phone rang, "Hello?"
"Hello, Willow," It was Angel, "I'd like to see you hear. Buffy's with me, and I think we shoul discuss something. Unless you don't want to."
"Uh, sure." She resolved, mentally noting that she should mention Spike to him, before Buffy did, "I'll hurry over."
She knocked on the door, but there was no answer, so she opened it slowly. <<Oh my gawd! There's just no stopping her!>> Locked in liplock was Buffy and Angel. She spun away, just as Angel was calling out her name.
<<I knew I couldn't trust her!>> The voices behind her had disappeared, and soon, she saw Spike standing ahead of her. She flung herself into his arms, and trying to hide the tears, "Spike!" She held onto him so tight, she was so scared he'd disappear.
"What's wrong, Red?"
"I had a thought," She lied, "I want to be with you forever. I'll miss you."
He looked at her strangely, "What are you saying?"
"Change me. Bring me across. Please."
He shook his head, "I don't know. I mean, I love you, with all of the heart and soul I don't have, and I'd love for you to be with me always. But, are you sure?"
"As sure as I'll ever be." The confused girl thought she wa sbeing logical, but when she saw Angel and Buffy kissing, logic flew out of the window, along with reason and forgiveness.
"Okay, Red," He led her away, and into the secluded area of the park, "This might hurt, I don't want to hurt you."
She kissed him, "I want to be with you always," She shrugged, "Besides, this way you don't have to feel guilty about killing people, cuz I will too."
"You okay with that?" He massaged her neck,
"Yup. One must make sacrifices for the life she wants." He kissed her once, and then the familiar game face appeared. She was so confused, so upset, she thought this would be the best way to treat the situation. He nipped lightly at the flesh above the viens in her neck, before cutting the skin, and drinking her blood.
<<So dizzy...>> The world started to fade away, as she realized something was wrong. And something was, Spike had lost control, and drained her of most of her precious blood. He realized that, and didn't know what to do, so he cut his arm, and let a large amount of blood drip into her mouth. She drank hungrily, on the verge of unconsciousness as instinct pulled her through.
"Red, hang on one minute longer," He pleaded, "I just have to find you some blood. I'm so sorry." The demon was actually showing remorse. After he spent a few minutes scanning the empty area, he heard a growling noise. He looked up into the sky for a moment, and saw the full moon. It gave him an idea.
"Spike??" She came to groggily, "Am I dead?"
"Undead, actually." She rubbed her head, "Would you like to hear how I saved you?" She nodded eagerly, "Werewolf blood."
"What? Does that mean I will change into a werewolf?" He shook his head, "I dunno, Red, but you aren't one now." He stood up, and called for one of his men, "You must be hungry," He suggested to Willow, and then turned to his minion, "Go get her something to eat. And don't sample it first."
"Yes, sir."
Something was different inside Willow. She could feel the demon, and it was struggling to escape, but part of her was holding back. She couldn't describe it. <<I feel like I did before, almost.>>
"How are you, Luv?" He walked over to her, "Feeling well?"
"Yes," She nodded, "Oh, Spike, I'm glad to be with you. It's nice. Comforting. LIke a blanket." <<I don't feel evil! Didn't it work? What's wrong with me!?>>
Spike's minion returned with a victim minutes later. He was young, but Willow didn't know him, so she allowed the dark feelings inside to take over. She didn't want Spike to hurt her because she couldn't feed. She changed her face, and sank her fangs into his neck, and drank until his body was empty, "Was it good, Red?"
"Yes, it was," She lied, knowing she didn't enjoy it much at all, "May I go for a walk?"
"Don't run into the Slayer."
She nodded, "I won't."
"Willow!" Angel had found her first, "I'm so sorry."
<<How do I tell him?>> "So am I, Angel, so am I," She looked up at him, "Could we go somewhere and talk?"
Angel had picked up on it right away, "Will, your heart isn't beating."
She replied, "Neither is yours. That's what I want to talk to you about."
He took her hand, "You let Spike change you," he paused, "Then why aren't you trying to kill me?" He looked at her eyes, "What happened?"
"Let's sit," She pointed to a bench, and when they sat she began the story, "Spike and I were, uh, dating while you were away. We became close, but not really intimate. Don't worry. I saw you kissing Buffy today, I didn't know what to think. I thought I was going to be alone forever. I didn't want that. Loneliness is so scary. I never realized that. I panicked, I started running, and I landed in Spike's arms. No rational thoughts were pouring through my head, and I begged him to change me."
"But you have your soul."
She nodded, "And I have the demon. They're fighting constantly. Anyhoo, he got a little carried away, and drained me pretty much to the very last drop. I was barely there. He had to spoon feed me his blood, but it wasn't enough to live off of. So, he bagged a werewolf, and fed some of that to me." <<It could be Oz. Oh gawd, what's happened?!>>
"Do you change into a werewolf?"
"It's the last night of the full moon right now, so I guess not. But it gave me my soul, and I don't know how to leave Spike. He wouldn't stay with me if he knew I was good."
Angel nodded, "You might make him mad."
"I don't know what to do."
"I don't either," He said, "But hang in there, okay?" She nodded, "I'll try and think of something."
She nodded, and squeezed his hand, "Thanks, Angel. It's nice to have a friend." And then she disappeared.
End Part 7
"Spike," Willow smiled, "WHat are we going to do tonight?" <<I hope I don't have to eat!>>
"We could go to the Bronze," he suggested, and then admitted, "I'm getting pretty fond of that place."
She nodded, "Okay, that would be fun."
Spike grinned, "I heard that Cibo Matto is playing, again," He started to joke, "So maybe we shouldn't go."
"WHAT?!" Willow shrieked, "Cibo Matto is playing? We have to go now!" She ran up to her bedroom, and decided on what to wear. Spike just laughed.
"This is fun, Red." They were at the Bronze, dancing. Willow had noted that Buffy wasn't there yet, so she was safe from the stares for a while.
"Yeah," She sighed, feeling secure in his arms. <<How am I going to do this? I love him so much, but I love Angel at the same time. Spike will feel betrayed, I know it. But he didn't know what werewolf blood would do to me. No one does. But, if I say I have a soul, and we spilt up, I think Spike might try and kill Angel, and the others. That can't happen.>>
"You seem preoccupied tonight," He started, "What are you thinking about?"
She shook her head casually, "Nothing, really."
"Are you hungry?" She shook her head again, falling back into his arms, "You're looking pale, maybe we should go outside, for a walk?"
"Okay," She agreed, "It's too hot in here. It's stiffling. I can't describe it though." They walked outside, and shared a kiss. "Spike, I love you."
"I love you, too, Red." Neither of them saw Buffy behind Spike. They were locked in liplock, sharind a moment. Buffy threw her stake, and then, Spike was dust.
"Nooooo!" Willow wailed, and fell to the ground, clawing at the dust, "How coudl you, Buffy?! He was the man I loved! He loved me back!"
"And he vamped you, so stand up, you're next." She spoke coldly, "I never thought my best friend would sink to such levels for a man." Angel had told her about Spike, and how he vamped Willow, but before he could tell her that she was good, Buffy raced out of the house with her best stake, ready to kill Spike.
<<Oh my god, he's dead. The man I loved is dead. Gone. Out of my life. The one man that loved me. I can't believe Buffy's nerve. She'd pay dearly for this if I was bad. Oh, Spike! I miss you already! How can I-->>
"Buffy! Stop!" Angel's voice thundered, "Listen to me NOW!!" Startled, she dropped the stake, "Willow's good!"
"Right. Angel, did you ever hear of a liar?" She responded sarcastically.
"He's telling the truth, Buffy. Listen to him, because you obviously don't listen to me."
Angel started to approach them, "She was given werewolf blood. It seems to have restored her soul."
"Oz?!" Panic filled Buffy's voice. <<I wonder why she's so upset about Oz.>>
"I don't know that." She replied plainly, and then Buffy started to wail.
"You killed Oz!" The sobs racked her body. <<WHy is she so upset?>> "If you just ate Oz, I'll come after you in your sleep."
Willow rolled her eyes, "What comforting thoughts."
Angel broke them up, "Buffy, you will do no such thing," He looked at Willow, who had fallen to the ground again, slumped against a dumpster and started to sob, "Willow, please, don't cry. Spike wouldn't want you to."
"How do you know?"
He replied, "I spent a part of my life training him. I know what he's like. Not sentimental at all," She nodded, "That's better." She wiped her tears, but as they disappeared, more fell silently.
"I'm going to go home. I should meet with Mom, I did say I'd visit tonight."
"Good idea. It's about time." Angel responded, "C'mon, Will'. You can stay with me."
Willow cried for hours through the night, only stopping once when Angel brought her a few bags of blood, "You need to eat." She didn't say anything. She took the bags, drank what she wanted, and then resumed crying.
"Angel, I don't know how to live. I just want to die."
"No, don't you dare." He sat next to her on the couch, and wrapped his arms around her, "You're too precious."
She looked up at him, "I can't stay here. Not in Sunnydale. I have to leave. I don't want to threaten your relationship with Buffy, or anyone else's for that matter. I've screwed up--"
"Willow."
"I can't stay here. I can't graduate, can't get a job, I can't do anything."
He silenced her with a fierce hug, "Just don't kill yourself. I couldn't bear to hear the news."
"Not a bad idea. Then I wouldn't have to live with the memories of Spike's dust blown onto my skin, and on the ground. The last words he said to me, ringing through my ears."
He shook her, "Don't think it. Be strong."
"He was my match! My love! My first real love! And Buffy killed him. How on this gad damned earth am I supposed to live peacefully?!"
"Think about what Spike would want you to do," He replied, ignoring the tone of her voice, "And move on from there."
She looked up at him again, "I have to leave."
"I'll help you get packed up. Promise you'll stay until the end of the week."
<<Two more days...>> "Sure."
Over the next two days, Angel made many arrangements for Willow. He purchased a small house in the Mediterranian, got her a few all-night flights to her destination, set up a bank account for her with some of his money in it, and then called a hospital in the area of her house, pretending to be a doctor, saying that she needed so many bags of blood each day. He used the excuse of an illness, and the lab technician on the other end instantly complied to the demand. Willow didn't want to leave home, but she knew that she had to. She packed up her computer, and the rest of the belongings she could gather, and prepared to leave.
The night of her departure, Angel drove her to the airport. When she got to her gate, she saw Xander and Giles waiting there. "I can't face them, Angel, I can't."
"Yes," He replied positively, "You can." She paused for a moment, before turning to face them,
"Hi."
"Will', be careful," Xander said, "I'm going to miss you."
She nodded, and then turned to Giles, "Did you hear anything on Oz?"
He replied, "It wasn't him that you fed upon," He then added, "Please keep in touch. We'll all miss you dearly."
"Willow?"
She turned around, "Buffy."
"I just wanted to see you off," She spoke, "And, I wanted to appologize for everything. I wish you happiness, and all the best wherever you're headed. I really do."
"Promise you won't stake my next love interest?"
Buffy was silent, and then replied, "I promise. Really, Willow, I--"
"We're good there." She hugged Angel, Xander and Giles good-bye, and boarded her plane.
End Part 8
Willow spent years in isolation. She rarely went out at night. Except to walk down to her private beach. She grew scared of herself. Every full moon, she'd become evil, and she couldn't control it. Thankfully, it was only one day a month, but it was enough to scare her away from the world. She made sure that she was around no one on that night. She would drink until she was full, and then sit around and imagine killing a Slayer. But her soul kept her subconsciously based at home. She never strayed, as hard as the demon fought. Her soul was becoming stronger.
One night, the phone rang. Nervous, she picked it up, "H-hello?"
"Willow!" It was Giles, "You have to come home. It's an emergency."
<<I can't. What if I try to attack one of them?>> "Giles, I can't."
"It's Buffy."
<<Buffy...>> She gulped, "What happened?"
"She's dying."
She started to whimper, "Giles, I can't. As much as I want to see her, I can't," She paused, "The werewolf blood did have an effect on me."
He sounded interested, "Oh really? What is it?"
"It enables my demon to gain control on the night of the fully centered full moon."
"Not three, like the werewolves, but the middle one?"
She replied, "Yup. I don't want to be around you guys through that time. I can't."
"Just come home for a week," There was some noise in the background, "Angel's here. He'd like to talk to you."
<<Angel, please don't ask me to come home. You know I can't say 'no' to anything you ask of me.>> "Uh, sure."
"Willow."
She melted at the sound of his voice, "Angel, don't ask me to come home. I can't. I change on the full moon, and I don't want to--"
"Change?"
"I become more evil on that night." She admitted to him. <<How's he going to take it? He hates bad vamps. I am one of them. Well, sorta.>>
Angel sighed, "Well, I'd love to have you back."
"I dunno." She entwined the chain around her neck, and studied the small glass locket that held some of Spike's ashes. <<Spike, I still miss you so much.>> That night, she had managed to sneak a handful off, and when she arrived at Angel's she had put them in a zip-lock bag. They had been put in a locket after she moved to her ocean estate, "So many things have changed, Angel."
"I know," He responded, "But, she's dying. I need someone to let me cry."
Willow lurched, "What is she dying from?"
"Cancer."
<<Oh god. Buffy, don't die.>>
"Willow?" Angel whispered after a few minutes of silence.
She resolved, "I'm coming home."
"Where is she?" She had flown over as fast as she could, making sure she'd be able to stay away from her friends in her time of darkness.
Giles met her in the waiting room with a hug, "Oh, Willow! It's so good to see you again!"
She smiled, "It's nice to see you, too," She hugged him again, "Now, where is she?"
He nodded, and lead her into a room which was at the end of a hall, "In there."
She walked in, "B-buffy?" She was horrified. There was her friend. Her strong friend. Clinging to her life, while tubes pumped painkillers into her body, as she wasted away from the radiation therapy. Lying there, so pale and fragile. <<She used to be so strong.>>
"Willow?!" Came a soft cry from the girl, who had opened her eyes, "It's you, you came back."
"Giles told me about you, I couldn't stay away." She sat beside her, and took her hand, giving it a squeeze.
"I'm s-sorry, Will'. I didn't know what I did would cause you so much pain--"
"It's all right," She cut Buffy off, "I understand why you did it."
Buffy nodded, "Will you take care of everyone when I die?"
"What? How can I do that?"
"You're strong, and vamping obviously makes you stronger. Watch my mother, and the gang. If anything happens to them--"
"If anything happens to them," She cut her friend off again, "I'll take care of it. I promise."
"Thank you." The door was opened, "Oz!" Buffy cried,
"Oh, Buffy," He rushed to where she was, "I'm sorry I was late, I had practise." Willow backed up, letting go of Buffy's hand, as Oz reached for it, not noticing the girl shrinking away into the shadows. He carressed her hand gently, scared she might break.
"Oz," She whispered, as he kissed her cheek, "Willow's back. Talk to her."
They turned to see where she had been standing. But she was gone.
She was in the waiting room, pacing until Giles got back. <<Why didn't someone fill me in!?>> But,it wasn't like she had some hold on him. She did leave the country.
"Willow, did you see her?"
"Why didn't anyone prepare me?"
He looked confused, "For what?"
"She's dating Oz!!" Her eyes glowed in rage, "Someone could've told me what was going on. It would've been nice."
"I'm sorry," Giles spoke as they sat down, "I completely forgot..." He trailed off, studying the locket around Willow's neck, "What's that?"
"It's Spike's ashes. As insane as it seems, I needed something to hold onto."
He nodded, "I understand." <<Does he really??>>
Angel walked into the room, "Willow!" They exchanged hugs when the girl stood up to meet him, "It's so good to see you again."
"Yeah." She smiled. <<Spike, I wish you were here with me. I need you so much.>>
Giles stood up and went to talk to Ms. Summers, who had just walked in, while Angel turned to Willow, "What do you want to do tonight?"
"I just want to go to the library. Catch up on some reading."
End Part 9
"Damn!" WIllow slammed the last book shut. <<I can't find anything!>>
"What were you looking for?"
She shrugged, "Just a Wiccan spell, Angel."
He glanced out the window, "We had better head home."
"Home?"
He nodded, "I thought you'd stay with me. It's lightproof, and we could talk all night. If you want, that is."
She nodded, "Sure."
"You haven't changed the place, yet." She pointed out as she walked into his home. He turned on the lights, and then draped his black coat over a chair. Willow walked around for a while, trying to relax.
"You want anything to eat?" She nodded, as he fished out two bags of blood from the fridge, "Here." He tossed one to her, and then tossed her a plastic glass that was sitting on the counter.
"You remembered!" She marvelled, as he remembered that she was never a 'straight from the bag' type of vampire.
"Like a steel trap." He tapped his head with a finger. They sat down on the sofa, and drank their meal.
Willow finished hers last, taking her time. When she was done, she asked quietly, "What do you want to talk about?"
"Anything you want to."
Willow stretched after she awoke from her nap. She had slept on the couch, while he slept in his bed. He was going to offer her the bed, but she declined. <<We talked about so much. Everything's going to change. It will take some time.>> She stood up, and glanced at the clock. <<It's only three in the afternoon. I still have a few hours to kill.>> She sat down again, letting her fingers trace the locket. She raised it to a level at which she could inspect it. She looked at the ashes, and she started to cry. <<Spike, I don't know what I'm going to do without you. One of my best friends is dying, and no one's hereto hold me.>>
"You okay?" Angel had heard her sobbing, and walked out to see if she was alright. He sat down next to her, "What's wrong."
"Everything's crashing down around me, Angel, and there's not a damned thing I can do!"
He hugged her close, "There, there, Willow."
"First Spike, and now Buffy," Her sobs wracked her tiny frame, "I need them so much. He was my partner. He helped me be strong when I was upset. And now that Buffy's going to die, I know I'll be upset, and he's not here for moral support."
"Shhhh..." He rocked her back and forth. It soothed her. His words soothed her. He soothed her.
"Spike's gone, and it's all my fault," She whispered, "If he hadn't fallen in love with me, Buffy wouldn't have killed him like that--"
"Don't say that, Willow. Don't ever wish you could changed the past."
She nodded, falling back against his chest. <<Spike, Spike, Spike. I need you so much.>> "I pushed his memories away for so long. And, now, they're just flooding."
"I know."
"How?"
"I had a real partner once," He admitted, "We were to be engaged. And then, I killed her."
They were all there, the next night, to see Buffy. Oz was there, but Willow avoided him staying close to Giles and Angel.
Buffy was clearly losing the battle. Joyce was so upset, but she was trying to be strong for everyone else, "Guys," The mother spoke as they left when a nurse asked them to, "I really appreciate all this. You guys have been so good to her."
"Not a problem," Giles responded, "We're always going to be there for her."
Willow nodded, "Always."
Giles took Joyce to get some coffee, while Xander and Cordy went for a walk. Angel was pacing nervously, and Oz and Willow were sitting calmly in chairs, lined up against a wall.
"Willow, could we talk?"
She smiled, "I don't think there's anything to talk about," She replied, forgiveness in her voice, "Technically, we split up. We moved on."
"Yeah," Oz responded, "But, if there's anything left to say--"
"No," She shook her head, "There's nothing. I mean, I was upset at first, because no one filled me in, but you make her happy. Be there for her."
"Thanks," He smiled, and then she asked,
"Do you think we could go do something tomorrow night?" He shook his head, not understanding what she meant, "Like coffee, and we could just catch up on things?"
He declined, "Tomorrow's the first day of the full moon. I have to lock up."
"Right." <<That means..I have to tell Angel.>>
"Angel," They were heading back to his place again, "The day after tomorrow--"
He cut her off, "I know."
"I have to go hide, or something."
"No," He repsonded, "I'll keep you at my place."
She shook her head, "What if I hurt you?"
"I'm more worried that I might hurt you."
"Just keep me from hurting the people I love."
The next day, she felt the changes taking place. New hurtful thoughts popped into her head, and she knew that on the next night, she'd become her evil self. <<I don't want to hurt anyone.>>
Thoughts flew into her mind. She'd see Spike, beckoning for her. He wanted her to give in, and become evil. <<I can't.>> She rolled over, trying to sleep. She kept having strange dreams. Drusilla was in a few. She knew the vampire would be returning. Her dreams were so real and vivid.
"Willow?"
"Hmmm?"
"You're thinking's keeping me awake. Go back to sleep."
She growled, "Fine."
The next afternoon, she had more transformations to go through. She oculd feel her mind changing, as the demon pushed her soul aside. <<Please, don't let me hurt anyone.>> New thoughts pushed through her mind.
<<I have an idea!>> She creeped over to Angel's computer, and logged onto the internet. The hacker searched databases of occult research, until she found what she was looking for. <<A ha! Now, I just need Drusilla.>>
Angel woke up too late. Willow was gone. "Willow!" He cried, and then muttered to himself, "She's gone. I have to find her before she hurts someone else."
Willow was long gone. She felt that Dru was still around, trying to avenge Spike's death.
"Miss Edith and I were expecting you." A familiar voice crept up from behind her, while she had been searching the park.
"I have a plan," She spun to meet Dru, "And, you can have your Spike back."
She hissed, "Heartbreaker. You took his heart, and ripped it out."
Willow snarled, "You want me to trash this?" She waved the sheet of paper, "Don't insult the person who has the spell, Dru."
"What's your condition?" She changed the subject, "I thought you were good."
"One night a month, I get to have some fun," Willow replied, and then went back to the subject that they had been discussing, "Now, I need a bit of your blood."
"What are you going to do?"
"Bring Spike back." Her eyes glowed. So did Dru's.
"I have to find her," Angel told himself over and over, "Before she gets into trouble."
Drusilla watched as Willow prepared the spell. She opened her locket, and poured a few of his ashes onto a plate. Closing the locket, she replaced the chain around her neck, "Blood." She directed.
"Goody." Drusilla took one of her hands and with her long, sharp fingernails she cut her other wrist. Blood started to seep out of the wound. Willow took a gobblet she had found in the house, and collected the blood.
"There. Go wrap that up. Don't want you to get weak." Willow directed, as she prepared the spell further. The spell would envolve mixing one of his closest companions' blood, with his most recent lover's. Willow had chosen Dru for the companion, and herself for the lover. After all, she was the last one he was with.
She cut herself and let her blood escape into another gobblet. When it was ready, she waited until Dru had returned. She mixed the bloods in a glass bowl, and then, she sprinkled the ashes on top. She chanted a few verses, and the waited.
The blood began to boil. There was a huge cloud of smoke, which terrified the sacrifice tied up in the corner of the room. Willow and Dru, however, were delighted. The smoke began to change colors, and a shape began to take form. Spike.
"I'm a little hungry."
"Spike!" The two female vampires squealed in delight.
"It's good to be back."
End Part 10