~Part: 11~
A month later, life was still close to status quo for the Slayers and Slayerettes. Willow noticed how close Faith and Buffy were becoming, but she didn't really mind. She knew they'd grow apart after time. Besides, she and AMy were bonding.
Oz kept fighting for Willow, but she kept ingoring him. Buffy adn Xander kept pressing her about it too, but the hacker never gave up any information about her and Angel's relationship. Faith was the one to question her about it, whenever they all went slaying, or when she would walk Willow home, instead of Angel.
Willow was still working on those spells, and astral travel, to see if she could get into the Counsel and steal books. She could get inside, but she'd be drained by the time she got anywhere past the foyer. It was frustrating. Angel was trying to get information out of Willy, but it seemed as though his attempts were futile.
Life was tense around Sunnydale. Willow hoped things would change soon.
~~~*~~~
"Mid terms," The much-hated principal announced on the PA, "Are starting next week."
Willow groaned, letting her head hit the desk, "Let me die."
AMy giggled, "You could always cast a little spell, and make all the teachers give you hundreds automatically.You don't even have to write anything down!"
She shot the witch a whithering look, "Nice try. I think I'll try an honest attempt at passing them."
"Have you learned anything about the counsel?" Willow shook her head sadly, "Want me to try?"
"Angel would probably love that," She nodded gratefully, "Giles, too. They've both been on edge, but neither will tell anyone what's going on. You should talk to Giles about it."
She nodded, "Okay. I'll do that after this period."
~~~*~~~
As she said, Amy went to talk to Giles, "Mr. Giles?"
he poked his head out of his office nervously, "Yes, Amy?"
"Willow was telling me about the problems she was having with the books," The librarian nodded, "Well, I'm willing to help. I'm a little stronger than her, and it might work better."
He was grateful, "Thank you so much," She smiled, "When would you be willing to do it?"
"Next week?" She offered, "Tomorrow? Doesn't matter to me."
He thought about it, and then said, "How about yuo get your strength up, and right after exams, we'll try it?" She nodded, and started to walk away, "And, Amy?"
"yes?"
"Please don't tell Willow."
"Why?"
He admitted, "We alreday have an idea of what's going on, and I think she won't like it too much."
She didn't like this idea, but she ocmplied, "Sure. I'll keep quiet about it."
~~~*~~~
Angel went straight to the library that night, "Rupert?"
Giles was sitting at a table, going through some computer printouts, "Hello, Angel," He smiled sadly, "I believe we have more bad news."
"What is it?" He inquired, "Does it involve Willow?"
Giles didn't answer. Instead, he questioned, "Are you and Willow involved?"
Angel admitted, "We're trying to have a date now and then," Giles' eyebrows shot up in surprise, "But, don't---"
"Discretion," He nodded, "I understand. Just be careful with her. For my sake."
"I don't intend to hurt her. I love her, and would guard her with my life."
They put that aside, and worked with the books and papers. Angel didn't like what was going on, but no one could stop it. <<Damned prophecies!>> They even had Giles worried. A powerful demon was going to open up the Hellmouth. They were going ot have to fight with allt he stregnth they possessed. Angel sighed wistfully, reading the last few pages. <<This will be hard for us. Poor Willow. I don't want her to lose me. I don't want to lose her.>>
"Will you be alright with this?" Giles questioned.
He shrugged, "I'm sure death will be worse than Hell," He shrugged, "No Willow being there, and all," His face was sad and dark, baring all emotion to the librarian, "But it'll be painless. Quick, though, right?"
Giles didn't know what to say to the grieving vampire, "I think so."
Angel sighed, and rubbed his temples, "When does this whole thing go down?"
"I believe the middle of June."
"Isn't that the prom?" Rupert nodded, "Didn't that happen the last time?" He nodded again, and Angel let out a fierce growl. The mortal stepped back, terrified, "Sorry, Rupert. I'm tense."
He didn't get mad, but instead understood totally, "I understand. Go ahead and growl all you want, just don't bite me."
Despite himself, Angel smiled.
~Part: 12~
The next night, Faith, Willow, and Xander hung out at the Bronze. Willow was glad to get to know the other Slayer better. Faith felt the same way.
"Any new honeys in your life?" Faith teased halfway through the night, trying ot furthe rher knowledge on the 'Willy Willster'. Willow blushed, thought of Angel, and then shook her head, "C'mon......" She turned to Xander, "Do you know anything?"
Xander shook his head, "Nope. Faith, you wanna dance?"
She shrugged, "Why not?" Then, she asked Willow, "Will you be alright?"
The red head nodded, praying that her favorite vampire would appear, "I'll be fine."
She watched wistfully as the couple headed to the dance floor, and started to sway in time to the slow music. Faith was putting the moves on him, and Xander was as oblivious as ever, She mused to herself. <<Funny guy.>>
"May I have this dance?" A low, seductive voice came from behind her.
She turned around, to see a rumpled Angel behind her. His eyes were bloodshot, and his expression was an attempt at happiness, but she could see something bothering him, "Angel?"
"Do I look that bad?"
She shook her head, "No. I just want you to talk to me."
He escorted her to the dance floor, while they ignored Faith's and Xander's questioning looks, which was hard to do for Willow. He smiled at her, placing his hands politely on her waist. She looked at him in question. He responded, "I'll keep this one clean."
"Thanks," She smiled warmly, and then pried, "What's wrong?"
"I just spent a long hard day with some old books," He lied, "My eyes hurt, and---" She nodded, and let him off the hook. <<If he doesn't want to tell me, I won't make him.>> He smiled, "But, I want to spend the night having fun with you."
Happily, she said, "That's what I want to do, too," She leaned her head in the direction of Faith and Xander, who were now seated at the table, eyeing Willow, "But, what about those two?"
"They can wonder, can't they?"
"You're terrible."
"Remember that." She countered.
~~~*~~~
They walked around town all night. Holding hands, kissing, being a couple. It was fun--for both of them, until Willow brought up the prophecy.
"Any new leads?"
He froze inside. He didn't know if he coudl tell her what was going to happen. He knew he shouldn't. She wouldn't be able to handle it. He couldn't put her through that kind of pain. So, instead of confessing, he lied again, "Rupert's still stumped."
She nodded. <<He's lying.>> She squeezed his hand. <<Why is he lying?>>
"Why are you lying?"
He gulped, "What do you mean?"
She started to spaz, "You know what I mean! I've never EVER seen you that upset before......it's not just nothing," She cupped his face in her hands, "Please. Tell me something. Anything. I want ot be there for you. Let me be there for you," he tried to look away, "Angel."
Nodding, he said, "Let's get somewhere safe first."
~~~*~~~
"Tell me," She ranted, sitting by the fire, "You can't avoid this issue. I'm not going away."
He nodded, and held her hands, "Yuo have to keep quiet about this, okay?" She nodded solemnly, "The prophecy foretells a death," Her eyes popped open, "We aren't sure, but we have it narrowed down to a few people."
"Can I ask who?"
He nodded, spilling forth another lie, "Me, Rupert, Sam, Spike or Buffy. We still aren't sure," Panic seared through her heart, "We aren't sure why Spike came up, and I don't want you to worry."
"How can I not worry?"
"I'm not going anywhere."
"Promise?"
He nodded,"I love you. Of course I promise."
"Could I stay here tonight?"
"Do you think that's best?"
She winced, "Everyone would worry," He nodded, "Will you stay until I fall alseep?"
"Of course."
"Let's go then."
~~~*~~~
Angel held her tightly that night. He didn't sleep much, except for a few brief minutes when she stopped wriggling nervously. <<I made her upset. I'm such a moron. I shouldn't have showed up tonight. Then, she wouldn't've seen me a mess. She wouldn't've asked questions then. Why did I lie?!?!?!>> He kissed the top of her head, and whispered softly, "I'm sorry."
"About what?" She whispered back.
"Making you worry."
She snuggled further into his embrace, "I'm sure there's a way to stop it. I'm not going to worry about something that might not happen. Seize the day."
He chuckled quietly, "Good philosophy."
~Part: 13~
Amy walked into the library the first night after exams, "Mr. Giles? Angel?" Angel was seated at a table, reading a few pages, "Hi."
He looked up, and she could instantly see how sad he was, "Hey, Amy. How's Willow today?"
She shrugged, "Upset," He asked why, and she answered, "Worried you might die."
He nodded, "Understandble," He paused, thinking about something, "Does Buffy know---"
"No," Amy cut him off, "She knows nothing. About you. About Willow. ABout the prophecy," She started to think about it, "In fact, she hasn't been in school for a few days."
Giles came in the room, "Really?" He was concerned. He had called Joyce, but she had said everything was fine, but Buffy had left for a few days. She seemed worried, but she didn't tell him that. This was bothering him. He wanted to know what was happening to his Slayer.
Angel was also worried, "That's odd. She's never been able to stay away from here," He looked at Giles, "From you. You're so important to her."
Giles shot him a look, "So are you."
He looked away, embarrassed and guilt ridden, "I should go look for her."
"I'll go, too," Giles said, and then turned to Amy, "I think we should postpone this for another night. Is that alright?"
She nodded, "Just make sure Buffy's alright."
Giles smiled warmly, "Thank you, Amy."
Angel backed him up, "We're grateful."
"I'll see you maybe in a few nights?" Giles nodded, "Good, cuz I have a huge essay to write tomorrow night," She stood up, and waved on her way out, "See you then."
"Be careful," Angel called to her. When she was gone, he asked Giles, "Where does Sam live?"
"Why?" He went in search of his briefcase. He came back, distressed, wondering if Sam could've caused Buffy's disappearance.
Angel shrugged, "I don't trust him, that's all."
"Oh no," Giles had been rumaging in there for a few minutes, and pulled his hand back, carrying out a familiar red case. It was empty, "This is not good."
"What is it?"
Tears formed in his eyes, "The medication and syringe I used on Buffy before her test," Angel nodded, knowing about it, "It's gone."
The empty case fell onto the table. Angel gasped, "We have to find her."
~~~*~~~
Willow sat at her window, half-waiting for Angel, but part of her felt he wasn't coming by that night. <<I waited to long, didn't I?>> She stood up, and reached for her phone, dialing Buffy's number.
Joyce answered it, "Buffy?!"
"No, Mrs. Summers, it's me, Willow."
"OH, hi, Willow," She seemed stressed, "Did you see Buffy lately?"
Panic surged through her viens, "No. Where is she? What happened? Is she alright?"
Joyce broke into sobs, "Sam took her away from me. My baby girl is gone."
Willow put her resolved face on, determined to figure out a way to help, "I'll get Angel," She tried to console her, "He'll know what to do. He'll bring her back. Did he saw where they were going?"
"No," Joyce sobbed, "Just bring me my daughter."
"I'll be over there in a minute."
She was, too. It didn't take long to find her sneakers and jacket. She ran the whole way, not caring about vampires, or other demons. She had to help Buffy. <<I failed. I wasn't there for her. What kind of friend am I?>>
"Willow," Joyce let her in with an unsteady smile, "Come in."
"Thanks," She smiled sincerely. They walked into the kitchen, where Joyce handed her a note. It was written by Buffy, but it didn't seem like her style of writing, "This isn't her."
"I know."
"Do you know where he lives?" Joyce shook her head, "That's alright," She checked her watch, which told her it wasn't too late, "I'm going to look for Angel, okay?"
Joyce nodded, "Good idea, Willow. Take the note. I'll be here if you need anything else."
"Thanks."
~~~*~~~
She saw Sam and Buffy in the park. He was a mess, and she didn't look that great either. He was yelling at obscenities at her, as she was sprawled out across the grassy lawn. <<Buffy!>>
Without thinking, she ran to her friend, ignoring the intoxicated man, "Buffy?" She moaned, "It's me, Willow."
"Get......out......----"
"Didn't I tell you to shut up, bitch?!" Sam kicked her in the side, and took another swig of liquor from his flask, "So, what do we have here?"
Willow trembled in fear, but remained silent.
He yanked her upright, and slapped her, "Answer me!"
"Let go of her," Angel stood in front of the trio. Giles was behind them, hoping to steal Buffy away when he got the chance. The vampire would take care of Willow. Sam stood firm, "Let her go."
Sam grabbed her close to him, pressing his hips against her bottom, his hands feeling her body. She thought she was going to be sick, "But she's so cute and helpless. Really a turn on."
Angel's stomach twisted, watching his druken hands touch his Willow. It was unbearable to watch. He had to do something. His vampire visage had taken over his face in all the anger and rage. Willow was terrified.
They just stared at each other for the longest time. Angel would continuously distract him, by moving around, or by making small talk, and that allowed Giles to hoist Buffy into his arms and flee to the safety of his car.
<<Nothing to bargain with now.....the stakes are even....>> Angel smirked. He got to play. This was going to be fun. <<Demon..where are you?>> He coudl feel his other half boil inside him, eager to let loose. But, he knew he had to keep some control over it. He only wants a little fuel and fire to play with. Something to scare Sam. Something to get Willow back with.
"Drop her," He said, "Let's fight," When Sam sneered, Angel continued, "You win. You get her. I win, she's mine."
Sam laughed, and dropped Willow to the ground. She landed with a thud, but managed to find Giles' car parked in the distance, and started to run. Sam saw this, and ran after her, knocking her to the ground painfully, "Now, now, can't have the prize run away."
She whimpered, but her leg hurt so much, she couldn't move. The pain was unbearable, and it told her that it was definately broken. She closed her eyes, and sobbed herself to sleep.
A short time after, Angel returned to her, "Willow?" She opened her eyes, to see a bloody Angel, "It's over."
She just shut her eyes again, letting the pounding pain consume her. He picked her up gingerly, and carried her to the car. They'd have to make a trip to the hospital.
~Part: 14~
"Will you be here to see me walk?" Willow spoke into the phone.
Angel laughed, "Of course."
"Goody. I'll see you there, around seven?"
"I'll be there."
Willow hung up the phone, and stared up at the ceiling. She had been in the hospital for three weeks, after the incident. Her mother didn't know what had happened, but the hacker fabricated a lie, saying that a few gang members had cornered her, and Buffy came to her rescue, only to face the same fate.
Buffy had been in the hospital for a week. Mainly, it was safety, from Sam, and from vampires. Both Giles and Joyce wanted that. She managed to recover from the incidentm but still found it hard to believe that it happened to her. Sam was a womanizing drunk. He made several passes at the Slayer, only to have them turned down. He started to act agressively towards her. Hence the bruises on her legs, when he tried to rape her. That's why he shot her with the syringe. But, he used a little too much, and she became too weak. He couldn't believe how useless she was like that, and took her to the park. He got loaded, and beat her senseless. She was lucky that her bones remained at full Slayer strength.
The next day, Giles forced his way through to the Counsel via the phone. He told them what had happened, and how terrible Sam was. He was a respected Watcher, during the day, but terrible man through the night.
With some prodding on ANgel's behalf, they let Giles back into the Counsel, and as Buffy's Watcher.
Everyone was recovering. Things were going back to normal. Things couldn't be better.
Or so Willow thought.
~~~*~~~
"I'm walking!" Willow cried, as she slowly walked past Buffy, Oz, Xander, Faith, Amy, Giles, and Angel, "Check this, I'm mobile again!" She fell into Angel's arms, exhausted from her trek across the room, "Thanks. You saved my life, back then, you know."
He nodded, but remained silent on the issue. It hurt him to talk about it still.
Buffy cleared the air, "So, are we all Bronzing tonight?"
Everyone agreed.
"Giles," Willow started, "You should come, too."
He shook his head, "I don't think---"
"Resolve face."
Buffy laughed, "Come on, I'll pick out something great for you to wear. You'll be stylin'."
Faith smiled, "Go, G-man!" He shot her a stern glare, "Sorry....I keep forgetting about that one."
"I got the wheels," Oz said, "I can pick everyone up," He gulped, "Even Angel."
"We'll figure something out," Xander agreed, "But, right now, let's party!"
Amy pushed a button on the portable stereo that they brought, and everyone started dancing. It was hard for Willow, but Angel kept her supported in his arms. Buffy, who swore to everyone that she was over him, was jealous. He should be still pining away for her. But, here he was, smiling, holding on to Willow affectionately.
Glancing around the room, she saw Oz wasn't much into dancing either. <<Is he mad? Or jealous, too?>> Her eyes focused on the gaze the couple shared. <<Soemthing fishy.>>
~~~*~~~
The Bronze was the best place to celebrate. Giles showed up for a while, but then he and Buffy left. Oz left, too, because he had to join the band. Faith left, taking Xander and Amy with her, thinking that ANgel and Willow were leaving, too.
"One more dance?" He asked, and they went to the floor, "I've wanted to hold yuo so close all night."
She smiled, and then said, "I think we should tell Buffy. She needs to know."
"Not until after this whole prophecy mess blows over. I don't want to stress her out even more," She nodded, "Besides, I like the secrecy of our relationship."
"Me, too," She looked up at him, "I think you should stay over tonight. We need to---"
He was surprised, "Really?"
She nodded, "Yeah. I mean, we can't go any farther with doing it, and we'll I think we both need to."
He kissed her forehead, "Let's go?"
They walked off the floor, through the busy table area, and outside. The walk home was relatively silent. Angel was thinking about thigns, and Willow was thinking about totally different things.
She made sure no one was home, like usual, and then walked with Angel up the stairs to her bedroom. They sat on the bed, and she started, "I---"
"What are we talking about?" He asked.
"What happened to me, to Buffy, to you," She paused, "To us. Everytime you'd be in the hospital, and you'd see my casts, or the traction, you'd freeze up inside. I just---" She held his hands, and continued, "Can we please talk about it?"
He smirked. <<Tease.>> She grinned back, knowing that she had led him on. He nodded, and said, "I was just worried about you, Sweet."
"Come on," She squeezed his hands, "Don't hold back. It's me, remember?"
"Of course I know who you are," He sobered. He closed his eyes, and remembered that night, "I was so scared, Willow. I saw Buffy on the ground, and then he hit you---" He gasped for air, as vampire tears began to stain his face, "I was scared. Terrified that I'd lose you."
She held him close, "You're not going to lose me."
"But, when he touched you," he sobbed, "I could feel my demon inside, and he wanted to kill that man, for hurting you like that," She kissed his forehead, "I didn't know what to do."
"You saved me."
"But if it didn't work?"
"It did," She lifted his head, and kissed him, "Don't worry. I'm always going to be here for you."
"I love you," He craddled her in his arms, "If you can only remember one thing about me, remember that."
<<He's talking crazy talk. But, I"ll humour him.>> "Then," She nodded, "Remember how I feel about you, too?"
"Could never forget."
~Part: 15~
"So," She asked, "Wanna go to the prom?"
Angel gulped, "Buffy, I----"
"I know," She nodded, "Oz told me you guys were good friends. That's why I want you to go with her."
He blinked, not quite believing what he was hearing, "What?"
"Take Willow. She needs a friend. Someone to help her stand. Besides," She shrugged, "I'm going with Xander."
Angel chuckled, "Wow. I never thought that woudl happen."
"Me, neither," She smiled, "But, will you go with her?"
He nodded, "Sure. It would be fun." <<At least I get to spend my last hours with her....and not have to hide.>>
"Well, I'll go tell her the good news!"
~~~*~~~
Willow blinked, "What?"
"Yuo're going to go to the prom with Angel. Oz told me you guys are good friends. I think he needs a bud, too," She explained, "Ever since that whole run in with Sam, he's been upset inside."
"I noticed. More brood than usual."
"Exactly," Buffy then smirked, "So, wanna go dress shopping tomorrow?"
"Okay!"
~~~*~~~
She tried on another dress for the thousandth time, "Buffy," She whined, "Can't I just---"
"Nope!" Buffy cut her off, emerging from a dressing room wearing a pale green ball grown, "You need to try everything on, and arrow things down. What kind of look are you going for?"
She shrugged, "Never thought about it." <<Me, Angel.....yes, I've thought about it countless times.....but never about my dress.....>>
"Think up an image, Girl."
Willow nodded, and went into thought. She looked at the dresses she had in the dressing room with her: a gold sheath dress, a cream halter topped dress with an a-line skirt, a lime green, oriental cut, mandarin collar silke dress, and a dark silver gown. <<The oriental would've been better for dinner.>> She cast that one aside. <<The gold makes my arm-freckles stand out, and the cream just doesn't go.>>
That left one dress. <<But Buffy wanted me to wear the green one.>> She pouted, and tried the dark silver one on again. <<It does fit nicely. I could get Amy to do my makeup again.....but Buffy--->>
"Pick one?"
"No, still thinking."
"Well," The Slayer suggested, "You keep thinking, and I'm going to pay for mine," She had decided on the pale green gown, "And, I'll be looking at shoes on the other side of the store."
"Okay," Willow said, and changed while patiently waiting for Buffy to leave the cashier's counter. When she saw the coast was clear, she walked over, and paid for it. The girl working there handed it to her, but Willow asked, "Could I leave it here until later on today?"
She nodded, "It'll be here for you. Whenever you get a chance to come out is fine."
"Thanks," She walked over to where Buffy was, "I couldn't decide, so I'll come back tomorrow."
"Well, let's look at shoes!"
She groaned, "Okay."
~~~*~~~
The day had been fun. She didn't like sneaking around to hide what she was wearing, but she knew it would be worth it. The hacker decided on a pair of strappy, chunky-heeled sandals, with little rhinestones across the straps. The minute she made it home, with her purchases,she flopped down on her bed, and dialed Amy's number.
"Hi, Willow."
"Hey!" She spoke happily, "I got my dress."
"Cool," Amy said, after the other finished describing it, "You want me to do you hair, right?"
She spoke, sheepishly, "I was thinking we could do the whole spa thing, at my place. We could get picked up there. I mean, the limo's already coming to my place."
"Okay," She agreed happily, "Sounds like fun. I'm in."
There was a tapping at her french doors, "Well, Angel's here, so I'll have to let you go."
"Have fun."
"I'll see you?"
"Of course!"
"Angel," She said, after she hung up the phone, "C'mon in."
He walked in carrying a rose, "Here, prom queen."
"I'm not prom queen," she protested, allowing herself to be swept up in his arms, "You make me feel like it, though....." He nuzzled her neck, "Mmmmmm."
He asked politely, "can I know what your dress lookes like?"
"Nope!" She smiled, "It's going to be a surprise."
"Can I know what color?" He pleaded, "For a corsage?"
"It's dark grey," She answered, "That's all I'm going to tell you."
He shook his head, and smiled, "Would you like a white, red, or crimson rose?"
"You pick."
"Willow........"
~Part: 16~
"Buffy and I'll see you at the school," Angel called her on the phone, minutes before the limo picked the two girls up, "Okay?"
Willow replied, "Sure."
After she hung up, Amy looked her over, "You look hot, Willow. You'll have the poor vamp drooling."
She shrugged, "I hope so."
"What's wrong?"
"Buffy and Angel said they'd meet us there."
"Maybe they have to slay first," She consoled her friend, "Besides. Angel loves you, right?" The hacker nodded, "So, you have nothing to worry about."
"I hope so."
~~~*~~~
Amy was right---Angel was drooling. Or, close to it. His eyes bugge dout of his head, as he saw his petite girl walk out of the limo dressed in a dark gown. The top part was silk, strapless, and clingy, while the bottom was tulle netting, and very puffy and long. Her hair was up, teased, curled, and a tiara sat on top.
"You're beautiful," He said, silding the corsage, which held a white rose, "Amazing."
She blushed, and studied his appearace, "You look good in a tux."
"Shall we go dance?"
"I think we better."
~~~*~~~
Halfway through the dance, the ground began to shake. Only Angel could feel it, the tremors were only small. He tensed, grabbed Willow, and ran to the library. Giles was there, pacing nervously.
"What's going on?"
Giles looked at Angel, "I think you better tell her. We don't have much time left."
"Time left for what?"
Angel kissed her forehead, "Come with me," He dragged her into a classroom, and locked the door, "I'm going to die tonight."
Tears sprung from her eyes, "No. Im not losing you."
"You don't have a choice. It's---"
Her eyes flew open, as she realized what was going on, "The prophecy?!" He nodded, ashamed that he didn't tell her, "You knew, and you couldn't tell me?!?!"
He nodded, "I was scared that you'd push me away."
She latched her arms onto him, "I'm scared that I'll lose you. I don't want to say good-bye," She reached up, and kissed him, hungrily. She needed him, and he needed her. To his surprise, her nimble fingers started to unbutton his jacket, vest, and shirt. He pulled her hands away, and looked at her surprised, "What?"
"Are you a---"
She laughed, "Oh please, years ago. Trucker named Bubba."
He laughed, "Let me make this special."
"It's special because you're here, with me."
"We don't have a bed," he pointed to a desk at the front of the room, "Only that."
She kissed him greedily, "It's all I need."
He held her close, kissing her, feeling her next to him. It was a little surreal for them. Angel was a passionate, gentle, caring lover to Willow. She felt no pain, only love and amazing energy. <<I see why the Great Rite is so powerful....>>
To him, the moments they shared were magickal. He never knew any sexual experence quite like that. She was so beautiful to him. It woud lbe hard to say good bye. But, he didn't regret it.
"Whoa...." She said, as they lay on the table, and the whole room began to shake, "What's that?"
"The Hellmouth."
~~~*~~~
She watched in silence, as Buffy, Faith, Giles and Angel battled against the monster that raged from the opening in the library's floor. Willow's heart was wretched in two. She knew she had to do something, but didn't know what.
"Angel!!!!" Buffy shrieked, as one of the tentacles grabbed Angel in its mouth, "Noooo!"
That did it for Willow. She shrieked, louder than she ever had before, and cried out, "Angel! I love you!"
Everyone whirled around, and saw Willow glowing. Giles pointed that out, "You're glowing."
She screamed something in a language unknown, and watched the monster shrink. It spit out Angel, hurling him to Willow's feet, and then, it joined its friends. The Hellmouth shrunk, and disappeared.
Willow colapsed.
~~~*~~~
"Willow?" Buffy shook her friend to consciousness, "Come on!"
"I'm here," She muttered groggily, "Where's Angel?"
"Right here," He squeezed her hand, "How are you holding up?"
She shrugged, "A little drained," She smiled to herself, "I can't believe that I, Willow Rosenburg, stopped a prophecy......"
Giles agreed, "I'm a little shocked. But, I had no idea you were so strong, and capable."
Xander piped up, latching his arms around Buffy's waist, "She's our Sabrina!"
Buffy asked, "Are you guys, um, together?" They both nodded, "When did yuo plan on telling me this???!!?!?!"
Angel answered, "She was going to, after the prophecy. After I---" He stopped short, "So, I guess we're both telling you now."
Willow nodded, "That's about it."
Xander was shocked, "Willow? Dead boy?" They both nodded.
Buffy wasn't handling this well at all, "I'm concerned. Hurt. Jealous."
Angel pointed out, "I think sending me to Hell was our breaking point," She nodded miserably, and he continued sensitively, "I know we should've told you, but we didn't know how you'd handle it."
Buffy looked at Willow, "Does he make you happy?" She nodded, "Then be with him. I'm hapyp for you guys," They both looked at her, "Really, I've got Xan-Man, besides."
"You've got me?" She nodded, "Wow.....I've been gotten!"
Angel picked Willow up, and settled her onto the ground, "You okay?"
"Now I am," She smothered herself in his chest, "Don't you ever scare me like that again," He started to laugh, "You hear me?! You had me sooo scared---" He kissed her gently, "That sort of makes up for it."
"Good," He smirked, "I better get you home," He checked the clock on the wall, which told them they didn't have much time left, "It's getting late."
"Treat her right, Deady boy."
Giles shot him a look, "I'm sure he will."
~Part: 17~
"Angel," Willow whimpered, "I was so scared. I saw that thing pick you up---" He pressed her close to him, "I'm glad you didn't die."
"Me, too," He said, "But, I would've died happy. You know that, right?" She blushed, "You make me so happy."
She felt him leave a trail of butterfly kisses across her bare shoulders, "Angel...." She clutched his shoulders. He started to shower her neck with little kisses, and then he moved onto her face. He kissed her cheeks, her forehead, her eyelids, her nose, and then, her lips. She tried to deepen the kiss, but he teased her, and pulled back, "What?"
"I want to make this special," He kissed her neck, "Let me make every time special."
"You want to try and outshine my first time?" He nodded, "Well, let's see if you can outshine every single time we spend together...." They both laughed, "That would be interesting."
"You want to see me die trying, don't you?"
She shook her head, "You don't need to try to make every time more special than the last. Our first was special. Gawd, Angel, it was in my chemistry class!" He laughed softly in her hair, "I don't think it gets anymore special."
"I just thought the setting wasn't very romantic."
"Well," She grinned, "This is pretty romantic, black silk sheets. A mansion. A fireplace," He nuzzled , "Angel?"
"Hmmmm?"
"Kiss me."
~~~*~~~
She woke up, and saw her dress, tiara, shoes scattered across the floor. <<Wild night....>> A sudden movement from the living room caught her attention, "What the---" She tried to get up to see who it was, but Angel pinned her down.
"Not so fast, Sweet," She kissed him, hoping that he'd release her, but that caused her to be further envelopped by his arms, "Good morning."
"Good morning to you too," She smiled, and then said, "There's someone out there."
He nodded, "Go ahead."
"Thanks," She smiled, and slipped into his white tuxedo shirt. She slipped out the door, and walked impatiently down the hall. She saw Amy, fixing breakfast, "What's all this?"
She smiled, "I thought you guys could use a hand."
"This is so nice of you," She gushed, "What can I do to help?"
"Go back to bed," She replied, and then teased, "I guess you had a rough night?"
Willow laughed happily, "Yeah, it was great. He's amazing."
"How did all of this get started anyway?"
The hacker thought about it for a minute, "We started by helping out our friends," She shrugged, "I never guessed it would amount to this."
"But it did," Amy smiled, "And, you're lucky," Willow sat there for a few minutes, and then the witch shooed her out, "Go back to bed!"
"Okay," She relented, "Thanks a million times." On her way out, she saw a pair of jeans, and a top, along with a pair of sneakers. <<Wow.>>
Willow walked back into the bedroom, and shut the door. Angel lifted his head, and asked, "Who was out there?"
"Amy's making us breakfast."
"But---"
Willow cut him off, "She brought blood for you."
"Wow."
"I know," She snuggled up next to him, enjoying the feel of his solid, scultped body against her delicate, pale skin, "I was impressed."
He kissed her neck, "I love you."
"I----" The earth shook forcefully. She heard Amy shriek, and started to panic, as she was out there all alone, "Earthquake?"
"I guess so...." They jumped out of bed, and quickly raced to get something on, "I'll bring you your clothes, and get Amy in here."
Willow nodded, and waited a few minutes. Angle returned, carrying her clothes, and leading Amy into the room, "Hey, Amy."
"Get dressed," He commanded gently, "We can go into the cellar if it gets worse," He lifted a rug which revealed a trap door. Willow slipped into her clothes quickly, while Angel checked her friend over, "Anything broken?"
She shook her head, "No. Just my head got cut," She lifted a glowing hand to it, and it slowly disappeared, "And that takes care of it. Do you think there'll be more?"
Angel shrugged, "I have no idea."
Willow walked over to where they stood, and said, "We can't go outside, can we?" Angel looked at her quizzically, "Oops."
Amy laughed, "Forget already?"
She shook her head, "No, that's hard to do. I just wish there was a way to get a hold of Buffy. I always think she can get us out of trouble."
"Sweet," Angel soothed, "We can do this. You guys are both witches, and I'm a vampire. This shouldn't have any fatalities," Willow nodded, visibly upset, "What?"
"Maybe this is the prophecy."
"Willow, no, it isn't," He kissed her forehead, and then turned to Amy, who felt very out of sorts, "Are you claustraphobic?"
She winced, "Why? Should I be?"
He laughed, "Keep that sense of humour thing. It'll save you."
"Great," She rolled her eyes, "It's crowded, isn't it?"
"Yup."
The earth began to shake again. Willow could feel its destruction. This blow was terrible. How the city would survive, she wasn't sure. The house began to move, "Um, guys?" She said, as another tremor started, "I think we should hide. Is there a phone somewhere?"
Amy nodded, and snapped her fingers. Her cell phone appeared in the palm of her hand, "I wonder if it'll work in the cellar?" Angel shrugged, "I'll try to reach Giles now, before we get stuck," She dialed the number, luckily someone answered, "Buffy?"
"Are you in trouble?" She asked nevrously, having just rescued Giles, Cordelia, Xander and Oz with Faith's help.
Amy replied, "We're all at Angel's. Trapped. In a cellar, in his bedroom."
"Okay," Buffy cheerfully replied, "We'll get there when we can."
She hung up the phone, "She said she'd get there when she could."
Angel growled, "Great. Just great."
Willow was worried, "Maybe we shoul go down there, cuz I don't wanna see you dusted, Angel."
Amy added wittily, "Dust could ruin my top."
Angel shot her a whithering glare, "You're killing me. Please, stop."
Another powerful quake sent Willow into shrieks. After Angel silenced her, he opened the hatch, and they climbed in. He lit one of the candles, and placed it in a wall holder. It wasn't as small as Amy had expected, but space was nevertheless tight. He shut the door, and they sat there silently.
Willow snuggled against Angel's chest, "This is going to be a long day."
He agreed. Amy sighed, and furled up in a tigh ball, expecting sleep.
~Part: 18~
Angel kissed the sleeping Willow, causing her to wake up, "What is it?"
"Another quake is coming," He replied softly, "I didn't want it to wake you."
She smiled, and kissed him again, "Thanks. Will it bother Amy?" He shrugged, but she was already stirring, "Amy? Quake coming."
"Thanks," She sat up, just as the impact hit. The trio could feel the walls of the mansion tumble down above them. A loud clatter hit the hatch, but it didn't break, luckily. Willow dug herself deeper into Angel's hug. Amy sighed when it was over, "Well, we're in here now, aren't we?"
Angel nodded, "Yup."
Willow asked, "Will we run out of air?" He hsook his head, and pointed to a vent, "Whew!"
Amy yawned, and went back to sleep. Angel rocked his lover back and forth, "You should sleep, too, Sweet," She stiffled a yawn, "See? You're tired. It's been a long day," He nuzzled her affectionately, "And, a long night."
She laughed softly, leaning into his touch, "You did wear me out, you know."
He laughed with her, and then said seductively, "Be prepared for much more of that when we get out of here," He kissed her hungrily, "Too bad we're in here."
The red-head joked, "Would she mind that terribly?"
A grumble came from the corner of the room, "Yes, I would mind."
They all laughed. It was one way to pass the time.
~~~*~~~
"Willow? Amy? Angel?!" Buffy's panicked voice was above them, at the end of the day, "Where is the hatch?!"
Angel hollered, using his powerful and deep voice to get her attention, "BUFFY!"
"Keep talking," Giles spoke loudly,"So we can locate you."
There were several sets of footsteps above them. Willow guessed Buffy, Giles, Faith, and Xander. Angel and Amy kept talking. She was so worn out, her magick wouldn't work, so they couldn't create a beacon to grab their attention. Soon, they lifted, and then the hatch started to move.
"Yay..." Willow yawned, as Angel lifted her to her feet, and then helped AMy get up the stairs.
Buffy led Amy to Giles to be looked over, while Angel and Willow crawled up to the surface. It didn't take long before Angel's face fell, once he noticed his house was in ruins, "This is madness."
Willow rubbed his back lightly, "We'll think of something," He turned to face her, "You can stay at my place until that happens," He shrugged, "Don't worry about it."
Buffy was glaring at Willow and Angel. She couldn't believe how they were acting in front of her. <<She's supposed to be my friend! How could she--->> Giles cut her thoughts off, "Buffy?"
"Yeah, Giles?"
He pointed a way out to the witch, and then replied, "Will you and Faith manage patrol on your own?"
Faith lifted her head from attending Xander's cut across his forehead, "We can handle it fine, Giles. Don't worry."
He nodded, "I'll take Xander and Amy home then."
"Thanks," Buffy managed a smile, even though she felt terrible inside, "We'll stop by the library after rounds, okay?"
"Good plan," Giles then turned to Angel, "You and Willow all right?"
Angel had just finished checking Willow over. There weren't any bruises, bumps, or scratches, which pleased everyone. Angel himself didn't feel any pain, or felt himself losing blood, so he assumed he was all right, "Yeah. We're fine."
"Can I go home?" Willow asked, after Faith handed her a bag, which seemed to belong to her, and contained her dress and shoes, "Thanks, Faith."
"No problem," She turned to Buffy, "Let's go, okay?"
Buffy nodded, "See you, guys. Xander," She kissed him on the cheek affectionately, "I'll call you tonight."
"Okay."
Angel hugged Willow, as a small tremor shook the ground, "Let's get you home," He looked to Giles, "You guys need any more help?"
The reinstated Watcher shook his head, and helped Xander stand, "No, I think we will be alright," Amy walked back inside, "Are you ready?" She nodded silently, "Very well," I'll see you. Be careful--both of you."
"Thanks, Giles."
"Thanks, Rupert."
That left them alone. Angel rushed to his wardrobe to try and find a few things, namely clothes, and blood. When he had a small bag packed, he smiled, and with a hand protectively resting on the small of her back, he led them outside.
"Homeward bound?" Willow asked meekly.
"Yup," He smiled, kissing her forehead, "We're going to go back to your place," He thought for a minute, and then questioned, "Is your room sun proof?"
She replied, "It can be."
"Do you mind me staying?" He led them down a path, which opened up onto Sunnydale's main suburb street, "I don't want to impose."
She just laughed.
~~~*~~~
After Faith dusted that last vampire in the mob, she turned to Buffy, who still looked pissed off, "Care to tell me what's up?" She shook her head, "Have to do with Angel, and Willow?"
"How did you--"
"Doesn't take long for the old feelins to come 'round again, does it?"
Buffy blurted out, "I don't see what good he sees in her! She's so mousy and plain...." She trailed off, realizing what she was getting at, "He oculd've had me again."
"Maybe they need each other?"
"I don't know," She sighed, "But, even though I have Xander, who's been so incredibly great to me, for me, I'm jealous."
"Bitten by the green monster, eh?" Buffy nodded miserably, "Let me offer you some advice."
Buffy accepted.
"Get over it."
"Sounds so easy that way."
"It is, when you try."
~Part: 19~
"Willow...." Angel held her close, after a long night of togetherness, "Sleep well."
She was still trembling from the events that had recently unfolded, "I can't relax. Nothing has helped. I still feel like any second I coul lose you, and I'm not strong enough to save you anymore---" He cut her off with a quick, firey kiss, "Would you listen?"
"I can't, Willow," He smirked, "You're distracting me," She growled half-heartedly, and then he continued, in reference to what she had said earlier, "And you mean none of my hard work has done anything to relax you?"
Willow chuckled softly, "You know it does wonders for me, but I'm too uptight. I guess even having you here having your way with me doesn't help."
"Roll over," He commanded gently, the minute an idea struck his head. She looked at him nervously, "No, no. Not that. Trust me, and roll over."
She whimpered nervously, and complied. He cracked his knuckles and then started to kneed her sensitive flesh that was her back. She moaned, as he worked his magic. He'd work pressure on her tense shoulders and neck, and then careful trace patterns up and down her spine. She moaned contnuously. He snickered, "That any better?"
"Shut. Up."
He laughed again, and continued. He worked on her back for at least an hour, until he heard her breathing become deep and steady. Then, he wrapped an arm around her, and went to sleep.
~~~*~~~
She woke up, and realized that Angel had put her to sleep. She rolled over, looked at him, and smiled. He looked so peaceful. So content. She traced his eyebrows, and then let her slender fingers trace his cheekbones.
"Mmmmm," He moaned, coming out of a dream. He opened his eyes, and smiled, "Feeling better?"
She nodded, "You made it all better."
"I can make a lot of thigns bett---" He tried to sound seductive, but was caught off guard by her alarm clock ringing, which signified a new week, a new day, and the last day of school, "Do you have to go?" She sighed, and nodded reluctantly, "When's your graduation?"
"Wednesday."
"I'll plan something special for that night," She purred against his touch, "Sounds like you like my idea?"
She smiled, "I like all of your ideas, Silly."
~~~*~~~
School was hard for her to go back to, especially after leaving Angel behind in bed. She knew he'd be waiting for her, and that excited her. <<I love him and all, but he turns me on so terribly.....it's almost painful.>>
She sighed, and walked to her locker. A familiar, friendly voice startled her out of her thoughts, "Hey, Willster!" Xander laughed, "What's up?"
"Not much," She smiled back at him, "Ready for the assembly?"
"Ready to graduate?" he joked back. She laughed. He continued, "That was something I never though possible. At least in my case."
"Yeah, well," She buttered his ego up,"You worked hard this year. Did well. It payed off, huh?"
Buffy siddled up beside her new boyfriend, "Hey guys, what's up?"
Willo shrugged, while Xander babbled. Ever since the Slayer found out about her and Angel, the hacker felt awkward around her. It was like Buffy was trying to intimidate her, with stares and other gestures subconsciously. Or maybe, she didn't even realize she was doing it. Either way, it bothered her. Angel was no longer hers, and she had a boyfriend, yet she insisted to guard what she had once had. It was odd, and very puzzling to the hacker.
~~~*~~~
By the end of the day, she was eager to see Angel. To kiss him, to spend time with him. It wasn't a relationship solely based on spending time together in bed, and other amusing places, but it was certainly a huge part of it. She oculdn't stand not being able to kiss him. She loved it, craved it, needed it.
<<He's like a drug.>>
She let herself into her house, to find another note from her mother which said she'd be otu of town for a few days. <<She's going to miss my graduation. Oh well. I'll live.>> Then, she walked into her kitchen, to find Angel drinking blood from a glass, "Hey."
Angel gulped in surprise. <<She didn't even bat an eyelash. Wow.>> He smiled, set the now empty glass down, and said, "How was your day?"
She sighed, and held the note up. He kneeded her sore shoulder muscles, "That helps. Makes it all better. Again."
He took the note, and read it. After he finished, he gave it back to her, and asked, "Doesn't that bother you?"
"No," She shook her head, "Not really," Then, upon his gentle demanding, she tried to justify her feelings, "She's missed so many of my important events. Prom. Countless birthdays. My driving test. Kindergarden graduation. Awards night. I'm used to it. She's never around. Doesn't get involved in my life. Sometimes that's nice. Lets me get away with having to explain you in my bedroom," he chuckled, "But, I dunno....sometimes I miss it. Soemtimes I don't."
In comfort, he kissed her neck, "Don't worry---" He found something that startled him, "Oh, Willow!"
"What?"
~~~*~~~
"Buffy," Giles said during their training session, "I'm worried about you," She rolled her eyes, but didn't say anything, "Your behavior towards Angel's relationship with Willow is normal, yet totally uncalled for."
She asked wittily, "Is it?"
"She's your friend, and you certainly gave up your rights to him a long time ago," He replied, "I also believe you're seeing someone named Xander. Or, have you---" He stopped, "Of course this is none of my business, but I'm concerned."
Buffy punched at the wooden frame in front of her, letting all of her agressions out on it, "I could care less about their dating patterns. I just have two problems."
He winced, "They are?"
"One," She threw a forceful blow at the form, "They could've picked someone else other than themselves."
"The second?"
She stopped fighting, "She could've told me what was going on. We're best friends," She paused, and reflected lightly, "Or, we're supposed to be best friends. I forget. These days things are so confusing."
~~~*~~~
"You have marks....." He trailed off, "I'm so sorry, Willow. I must've bitten you last night, when we---" She silenced him by placing a finger to his lips, "What?"
"You've done it every time. You lightly nip the skin, and suckle on the wound. Sometime you break open an old one," He looked at her confusedly, "Yes, there are more. They're everywhere. Like chickenpox. Only, not a virus."
He was upset, "Why didn't you tell me?"
"Because it doesn't bother me," He shook his head in disbelief, "It's part of you. If I asked you to stop, it woud lbe hiding part of you from me. I don't want that. I love all of you."
Angel protested, "I could've lost control. And drained you."
She shook her head slowly, "You love me," He nodded, confused, "You wouldn't drain me. I trust you."
"Willow, thank you," He smiled hesitantly, "I don't know why, but I feel ten times lighter."
"Glad I could be of service."
~Part: 20~
"Willow Rosenburg," Principal Snyder was calling names of the graduating class. She tsood up, and walked to the front, particpating in the ceremony. A few names later, he called another familiar name, "Buffy Summers."
She walked icily past Willow, saying something to Xander, but nothing to her. She felt alone, and she didn't know how to deal with it. <<This is supposed to be the best time of my life. I'm graduating. I'm done school. I can go to university. Travel. Spend time with Angel. Whatever. Why can't I smile? Why does Buffy have this hold on my life?!>>
~~~*~~~
She met Angel that night, at the Bronze. He could tell she was upset, and decided to treat her gingerly. <<A dance. That might help.>>
"You'd like to dance?" He asked casually. She nodded silently, too upset to say anything, and together, they found their way to the dance floor. He held her gently, yet protectively, as he always did, "What's wrong?"
"Hold me."
"I am," He retorted softly, scared she'd get mad at him. She shook her head, and burrowed herself further into his embrace, "Oh," He sighed, andtightened his grip a little, "Care to talk now?" She shook her head again, "Willow. Please. Talk to me, Sweet."
The look in her eyes pained Angel. She took a deep breath, and said, "Buffy's mad."
"I know," He said, "I ran into her outside. On my way here. She thinks we betrayed her."
"But, we didn't. I wish she knew that."
He agreed, "Buffy kinda dropped the hint when she stabbed me. I knew my blood was neccessary, but all she had to do was cut my hand, and drop the sword in. If she wanted me in her life, she would've found another way," He shrugged, "I think she wanted a normal life."
"Then why can't she just let us be?" He shook his head, "I'm happy with you. She's happy with Xander. Why can't we just move on?"
"It takes time to do that, Sweet," He rubbed her back, as they swayed to the slow music, "No one can just move on like that. She hadn't let those wounds heal properly. They got infected. I understand all of that," She nodded sympathetically, "But sooner or later, she'll turn around, and realize what went wrong."
"I hope so."
She remained silent for the next few dances. When it changed to fast music, they'd leave, and sit down. He didn't quite know how to stop her from brooding. <<She's pretty good at it. Almost as good....no, maybe better than me.>>
"What?" She questioned sulkily.
"Stop brooding, Willow," He smiled sweetly, "It doesn't become you."
"Brooding?" She laughed, despite herself, "Whoa! Guess hwo I'm starting to become. Maybe I shou lstop hanging around him so much."
He gave her one of his trademark cryptic looks, and then suggested, "How about we go home and work this out."
"Can we christen the new apartment?" She smiled hopefully.
He shook his head, "Nah, tomorrow. I was thinking we'd talk, work this whole Buffy mess out between us," They tsood up to leave, "Take thigns slowly. I want you to feel better."
"I just want you, now," She smiled, trying her hand at flirting, "Buffy can wait."
"Tomorrow," He promised, "We'll deal with it. And talk to her about it."
She patted his behind softly, once safe in the confines of the alleys, "Tomorrow," After he was finished yelping in surprise, she said, "You make things better."
"Just helping out a friend," He laughed, "I do what I can."
Willow just laughed, her mood definately improving.
THE END