THINGS HAPPEN (1/?)
 

Willow heard a noise on her balcony and frowned. Buffy was gone to visit
her father for the summer and Xander was visiting his aunt in Florida.
She couldn't think of anyone else it could be. She opened the door and
gasped.
 

"Angel?"
 

He stepped into the light, looking around nervously. "Hello Willow. If
I'm bothering you, I can leave."
 

"No...no...Come in. I was just sitting here playing on the computer.
What's up? Is there danger? Can I research?" she asked hopefully.
 

He chuckled softly as he sat in the chair beside her bed. He glanced
around the room. He'd been here once before, but it appeared that she
had changed some things. "No danger. I was just feeling lonely."
 

Willow sighed as she sat on her bed. "Me too. Everyone's gone. I am so
bored and the summer just started."
 

"I was hoping you might want to keep me company this summer, while
everyone is gone. We could maybe have some fun....." he looked at her,
his eyes unreadable.
 

Willow looked at him in surprise. She had been shocked to see him in the
first place. She and Angel had never really spent any time together. She
was surprised he had even remembered where she had lived. Now, he was
sitting there in her chair, looking all sexy and broody, saying he was
lonely and wanted her to keep him company. She knew she had developed a
slight crush on him. What girl wouldn't? He might have been a vampire,
but he was absolutely perfect. And he was Buffy's. She was just his
girlfriend's best friend. Someone to keep him company until said
girlfriend returned. She wasn't sure if she should. Buffy might get
upset. Willow suddenly laughed. (Yeah right. Like Buffy would be jealous
of you? She'd know he probably felt sorry for you, being all alone....)
 

"That would be nice" she said smiling.
 

Angel smiled slightly. "I'm glad. I used to enjoy being alone, but now,
it just bothers me."
 

"I would say that it depresses you, but you're always depressed so it
wouldn't really make a difference. I hate being alone. Always have.
There are times that I need Willow time, but most the time I like to be
around the people I love. They remind me that I'm loved and I feel happy
and I'm babbling aren't I?"
 

"Yes, but it's ok. I'm rather fond of it actually."
 

"Really?"
 

"Yes, really." Angel said, smiling.
 

Willow drew in a breath. He was even more gorgeous when he smiled. Buffy
was very lucky.
 

"Oh. So, what did you have planned?"
 

"I don't know. Why don't we just go out and leave it to chance. Be
daring."
 

Willow shrugged. "Sounds good to me. I can be risky. Let me get my
coat."
 

Angel watched her, enjoying being able to finally spend some time with
her without Buffy and that moron hanging around. He'd been waiting for
this opportunity since he had first seen her.
 
 

THINGS HAPPEN (2/?)
 

The sun was starting to set when Willow looked up from her book. She
smiled. It was time to see Angel. She felt a rush of happiness spread
through her. She still had her silly crush on him. If anything, it had
grown over the past month. They had spent every night together, usually
ending up at his apartment where she would fall asleep on the couch. She
lived for the nights now. He had shown her the beauty of darkness.
 

Angel surprised her. He seemed to actually listen to her. He was
interested in what she said. He had told her so much about his past.
Things that he told her he had never spoken of to anyone. He told her
that no one had ever asked. She knew Buffy tried to forget who he
was....forget that he was supposed to be her enemy. For Willow, his
being a vampire seemed almost like Xander being goofy. It was a part of
him. She accepted it. It made him Angel.
 

She was surprised that he smiled so often. Buffy had always told her
that he was usually quiet. broody and unhappy. Willow had yet to see him
brooding since that first night. She liked to think that he was more
comfortable around her due to the lack of lust on his part. She imagined
that, around Buffy, he acted much like she did around Xander. She almost
hated to see the summer end. She knew that when her friend returned, she
and Angel would fall back into their respected roles in Buffy's life.
She did hope that he would still treat her as a friend.
 

Angel looked through the glass doors and watched Willow. She had a
thoughtful expression on her face. He was surprised. Her mind fascinated
him. She had asked him things that he didn't have answers for. She made
him remember his past...appreciate what he had gone through. She never
made him feel guilty for what he was.....never treated him any
different.
 

She truly amazed him.More than anyone ever had. At first, she had
intrigued him. He wanted to know her better. As time had passed, though,
he had found himself becoming completely enraptured by her innocent
beauty, her intelligence. She was completely unaware how attractive she
was. He had enjoyed having her to himself. He hated to think that the
others would be returning at the end of the month. At that time, he
would be expected to go back to being the object of Buffy's affection.
He knew that he would. Willow wasn't ready yet. She would not be able to
choose him over her friends. He knew that that would be the choice given
her if he made a move too soon. He knew she was falling in love with
him. He wanted to make sure she remained there until they could be
together.
 

"Red?" a voice called from her balcony.
 

Willow smiled. "Angel! Come in. What's the plan?"
 

He walked in and smiled. "I thought we'd take it easy tonight. Maybe
rent some movies....you keep telling me all these titles I've missed.
What do you say?" he asked hopefully.
 

Willow nodded. "Only if I get to choose the movies...and we get
popcorn."
 

Angel looked thoughtful for a minute. "Hmm, I don't know...." he sighed
loudly, "I guess so. But I get final approval."
 

"Of course." She said, getting her bag. "Let's hit Blockbuster old man."
 

He put his arm around her shoulder as he followed her out of her house.
Their soft laughter echoing through the darkened streets.

THINGS HAPPEN (3/?)
 

Willow felt Angel moved behind her. She tried to ignore him, but her
body was wouldn't listen. Buffy and Xander would be back in two days.
Two days. She only had him until then. She honestly didn't know what she
would do when she no longer was able to go to him....to see him. She had
realized over the last month that her crush had grown. She had fallen in
love with the handsome vampire. With her best friend's boyfriend. It was
like some horrible soap opera. She had thought what she felt for Xander
was love. Now, she realized that it had been a passing fancy. She had
let long term friendship lead her mind to believe it was love. Love was
Angel and what he made her feel.
 

Angel smelt the scent of Willow's shampoo. She always smelt so sweet,
like flowers and peaches. He only had two days left with her. Then,
things would change. He had thought that he would be able to let her
go....to forget what he felt for her. He knew that it was impossible.
His earlier infatuation had grown into a love that rocked the core of
his being. He had never felt this deeply before. He couldn't lose her.
He didn't know how, but he would keep her. To hell with Buffy...to hell
with that moron. Willow would be his.
 

Willow felt Angel's gaze on her and turned, a smile lighting up her
face. "What is it?"
 

"Just wondering why I was lucky enough to find you."
 

She felt herself blushing. "Yeah, right. Really, what were you
thinking?"
 

Angel felt anger that she couldn't see what he saw. "Why do you do
that?"
 

"Do what?" Willow asked, puzzled.
 

"Put yourself down like that. You have the most beautiful soul of anyone
I've ever met. You are so smart...so pretty...why do you not see what I
see?"
 

"I'm just Willow. I know what I am. Kind words won't change that. I am
smart, I agree. But, I'm not pretty. Look at me. I'm flat as a board. My
nose is funny. My toes are ugly."
 

He started laughing. "You're impossible. God, I love you."
 

She froze. "What?" she whispered.
 

He looked at her, his expression serious. "I hadn't planned to tell you
that...."
 

"You love Buffy." she said quietly, not believing him.
 

"No. I never loved Buffy. I helped Buffy..even flirted a bit. It was
nice to be wanted again after so many years. I fell in love with you."
 

She shook her head. "I'm just Willow! I don't get guys like you falling
in love with me. It doesn't work that way."
 

"Well, I guess they forgot to give me the rules." he said, anger in his
voice. He had just bared his heart to her and she was worried about
Buffy.
 

"I just don't believe it. When Buffy gets back, you'll forget me. You'll
go back to her" she said, speaking almost to herself.
 

"I will never forget you Willow. You have my heart." he said, gently
bringing her face up so that he could look into her eyes. He saw love
and fear. He smiled. She loved him.
 

"I think I might love you" she said, seeing the emotion in his chocolate
eyes. "You'll leave me."
 

"Never" he said, bringing her mouth to his. His tongue gently entered
her mouth, exploring her for the first time.
 

All the fears left her as she moved closer to him. She was drowning. He
loved her? What would Buffy say? She moaned as the kiss deepened. She'd
worry about that in two days.
 
 

THINGS HAPPEN (4/?)
 

Willow pulled back from Angel's kiss and looked deep into his eyes.
"What are we going to do?"
 

"I know what I'd like to do" he said, smiling, "But, I don't think
that's what you're talking about......"
 

Willow felt herself blushing. "Angel. Be serious. When Buffy left, she
was in love with you. She is going to expect things to be the same...."
 

"I don't care about Buffy. What does Willow want? That's all I care
about."
 

"Willow wants for there not be a big fight....Willow doesn't want to
lose her best friend...over a guy. How cliched."
 

"You're amazing. If Buffy is truly your friend, you'll accept this. I
never made any promises to her....never declared my love or any of that
nonsense. We were only together in her mind. She was never the one that
I wanted to know." he said, caressing her cheek.
 

"You're right" she said, enjoying the feel of his hand on her face.
"She's my friend. She should be happy for me. I'd be happy for her.
Xander will be glad that you aren't interested in Buffy. It will give
him a chance to try for her....so, I'm not concerned about his opinion."
 

"The boy wouldn't last a day with Buffy" Angel said, amused at the idea.
"She'd eat him up and spit him out."
 

"That's what I think, but trying getting him to understand that." Willow
said, sighing as he moved his hands to the back of her head. He leaned
over and kissed her deeply. She leaned into the kiss.
 

He pulled away and took in her red lips, swollen from his kisses. He
felt a rush of pride. She was his. Soon, he would possess her body and
soul. Then, his life would be complete. He couldn't wait. He had a
feeling that Buffy would react in a negative manner. He wanted to be
there for Willow if that happened. She was too sweet to face the slayer
alone. Buffy would attack her verbally even if she kept her hands to
herself. He had no intention of sitting by and allowing that to happen.
 

"What's going on in here?" Willow asked, putting her hand across his
head.
 

"Nothing important.....Don't tell Buffy anything until I'm with you. I
don't want you hurt."
 

Willow smiled. "Thank you, but I'm sure it will be fine. Buffy is my
best friend. She might be a little hurt but she should be ok with it. As
you said, it wasn't like you two were dating or anything. She'll be
fine."
 

He smiled at her optimism. She was so naive sometimes. That was one of
the things he loved about her...her innocent view of the world. He hated
that one day her world would crumble and she'd have to face the truth.
That things didn't always have a happy ending. He wanted to be there for
her when that truth was sent home. He knew she'd survive it. She was a
fighter....even if she didn't realize it yet. And she was his. He kissed
her again, enjoying the moment before all hell would break loose.
 

THINGS HAPPEN (5/?)
 

"You bitch......how could you?" Buffy hissed out, looking at the girl
she thought was her best friend.
 

"Things happen" Willow said, chewing on her bottom lip. Buffy had
arrived home from her dad's that morning. She had met Willow for coffee
but seemed different, more aloof. She had barely spoken until Willow had
blurted out the truth about her and Angel. She knew Angel wanted to be
with her when she told Buffy, but she had honestly thought her friend
could handle things. She'd been wrong.
 

"Don't give me that. He's mine. He wants me. Why would he choose you
over me? I mean, look at you. You're not pretty. You have no body.
You're either lieing or you seduced him."
 

Willow felt tears in her eyes at Buffy's harsh words. "I did neither. He
chose me. He's the one who told me he loved me. I thought you'd be happy
for me....I thought we were friends."
 

Buffy laughed cruelly. "Happy for you? You stole my boyfriend. I could
kill you. I don't want to see you again. I hate you." she stood up and
left, not looking back.
 

Willow sighed. That had not gone well. Not well at all. Could it guess
any worse?
 

*****************************

"Damn dust. Why the fuck couldn't he be in Paris? No....he has to be
hiding out in this damn American town."
 

"Daddy is here" a soft voice floated from behind him.
 

He turned, "No shit pet. Why the bloody hell do you think we're here? I
didn't drag you halfway across the world just to see the beach. Daft
bitch."
 

"You're being mean to princess" she frowned.
 

He sighed loudly. "Sorry luv. Got a lot on my mind. Why don't you sit.
You need your strength. We'll find dear old dad later and get you all
fixed up." he said, moving her to sit on the bed.
 

"Daddy's in love...." she said, her eyes wide. "She's sticky and
sweet....like taffy. Oh, do you think I'll have a sister?"
 

"Knowing Peaches, I'd say that would be a no. Bloody bastard won't live
long enough to change the tart once I find him" he said, smiling at the
idea.
 

She hit him. "You can't kill Daddy...we need him....Princess needs to be
strong...so tired.....Spike?"
 

"Yes luv?"
 

"Find Daddy soon....I miss him."
 

Spike rolled his eyes. "Just go to sleep Dru. Tomorrow, we'll go
hunting."

THINGS HAPPEN (6/?)
 

Angel opened his door, surprised to see Willow.
 

"What happened?" He asked, sensing her unhappiness.
 

"Buffy" Willow said, making a face.
 

"You went to see her, didn't you? I warned you Willow."
 

"Please...No I told you sos. I can't handle it right now." she said,
grabbing a soda from his refrigerator.
 

"Tell me." he asked, his voice soft.
 

She sat down and told him what had been said. When she finished, he
surprised her by laughing.
 

"Things happen? You told her that? Willow...Willow....Willow....you
amaze me."
 

"What could I say? I mean, it wasn't like we planned to fall in love."
She said, helplessly.
 

"Come here" he said, gently pulling her into his arms. He kissed the
back of her neck, sensing her arousal. He moved his hands around her
waist, one moving underneath the bottom of her shirt, his hands drawing
circles on her bare skin. "I'm sorry that Buffy didn't act the way you
had hoped she would. I'm sure she already regrets most of what she said
to you. She was surprised and reacted badly. She may be a slayer, but
she's still a 16 year old teenage girl."
 

Willow laid her head on his shoulder. She was feeling tingly. The feel
of his cool hands on her heated skin was making her rather breathless.
"I don't think so. I saw the look of disgust in her eyes. I think she
may try to get you back."
 

He gently moved his hands higher, testing her reaction. When she didn't
resist, he smiled into her hair. Soon, she would be ready. "Don't worry
about that. I don't want her. Only you....."
 

Willow closed her eyes and gasped when his hand covered her small
breast. She felt his thumb rake over her nipple, his mouth on her neck.
She felt something hard press against her leg.
 

"Feel what you do to me? Only you. Just the smell of you can make me
hard. I want you so badly....I know that it will take time...I don't
plan to rush this. I've been waiting too long....just know that you turn
me on. Not Buffy. Never fear me leaving you."
 

She turned her head and kissed him deeply. When she pulled away, she
smiled. "Thank you."
 

"No, thank you." he said, smiling back. "What are we doing tonight?"
 

"Avoiding Buffy." Willow said.
 

He laughed. "Guess we'll stay in tonight. Want to rent some movies?"
 

"You just want to stay in so you can take advantage of me" she said
primly.
 

"Damn right" he said, winking. He smiled when she turned red.
 

"That's ok with me" she said softly, kissing him again.

THINGS HAPPEN (7/?)
 

Angel looked at the phone suspiciously. He handed it to Willow. "It's
Giles."
 

Her eyes were wide. Since Buffy's outburst, she hadn't spoken to any of
the gang. They were all acting like she had the plague. Now, they had
tracked her down at Angel's. "Yes."
 

"Willow, I need you. I can't get this infernal machine to work. There is
some research that I desperately need. I tried Miss Calendar but she is
out of town."
 

"You need me to help you?" Willow asked, clarifying. "I thought that I
was useless."
 

Giles sighed. "I have no idea what is going on between you and Buffy. I
know that, right now, we need you. I'd hope you could be mature enough
to put aside the differences and come in."
 

"I'll be there...but Angel is coming with me."
 

"If he must."
 

Willow hung up. "They need me."
 

"You should have told him where they could all go." Angel said, annoyed
that they were trying to use her again.
 

"I know....but it could be important. If I don't help, people might
die."
 

"If you do help, YOU might die." Angel responded.
 

"I won't. You'll be there to protect me." she said kissing him briefly.
 

"I don't like it, but for you, I'll go."
 

"Come on then. The sooner we get it done, the sooner we can come back
here."
 

"Promises...promises..." Angel said, smiling at her as they left his
apartment.
 

***************************
 

Spike watched from his hiding place and scowled. His sire was helping
the fucking slayer. It appeared that he had done more than just help her
too. She was practically all over him. Angel kept giving her annoyed
looks, but the brainless twit couldn't seem to get the hint.
 

This was the group that had killed the Master? Spike almost laughed his
ass off. All he saw was a dopey looking boy, a slutty looking brunette,
the daft slayer, an old man, and a little girl. The girl caught his
attention. He saw his sire looking at her.....watching her. She was the
one Drusilla had spoken of. Taffy.....This little chit was the one that
had captured his sire's heart. Spike found that hard to believe. He
continued to watch.
 

Willow had had enough. If Buffy's skirt got any shorter, she'd be
arrested for public indecency. "I'm done." She said standing up. "If you
need anything else, call Miss C. Buffy, if you would kindly get your
claws out of my boyfriend, I'd like to leave."
 

Angel smiled. He got up, giving the slayer a disgusted look. "I've been
ready lover" he said, putting his arm around Willow's shoulders. He
watched her face flush at the implication of his words. He also noticed
the way the others stiffened. This was fun. He caught a sudden smell
coming from the stacks. It was familiar. It was Spike. He'd need to get
Willow someplace safe. He hurried her out the door, acting as though
nothing was wrong.
 

Spike watched them leave. He had seen enough. His damn poof of a sire
had gotten involved with a slayer. He might not be now, but he had been.
Spike wasn't an idiot. He snuck out of the library, deciding to wait to
track Angel until later in the week. Angel had smelled him. He had seen
him straighten up and glance around. Guess the element of surprise was
gone. He had seen the fire in the little redhead's eyes when she spoke
to the slayer. Seeing her that way, he now understood Angel's feelings.
She was a spitfire.....just young. He frowned. He needed to get back to
Dru. She'd be wanting to hear about Daddy.
 

THINGS HAPPEN (8/?)
 

Angel walked Willow back to her house. She was still upset over Buffy's
behaviour. He couldn't blame her. They agreed to take it easy that night
and just watch some television. He kissed her gently, wanting so much
more.
 

Willow knew that Angel was ready to move past the smoochies stage, but
she couldn't do it....not yet. She wanted more time.....wanted them to
be together longer. She knew that he would never push her. That was one
of the things she loved about him.
 

They snuggled close together on the sofa and watched an old black and
white movie that was playing on AMC. Willow heard Angel laugh.
 

"What is it?" she asked, turning towards him.
 

He smiled. "I remember going to see this movie when it first came out. I
threatened the attendant and had him play it one night, after the
theater had shut down. Someone I knew really wanted to see it. I ended
up enjoying it very much."
 

"You took a theater because a friend wanted to see Bringing Up Baby?"
 

"She thought the leopard looked nice" he said, remembering. "Hey, don't
look at me like that. That was before VCRs and Blockbuster. There were
very late shows. If you were a vampire, you either paid extra to rent
the theater or you....."
 

"Threatened innocent people?" Willow said. "I'm not judging you. I'm
sure she really appreciated the gesture. It was very sweet of you."
 

"Sweet?" Angel repeated, frowning. "Sweet is a puppy playing in a pile
of leaves. I'm not sweet."
 

Willow just laughed. "Yes you are." and turned back to the movie.
 

He kissed the top of her head and shook the memories from his mind.
 

*****************************
 

"This is hell. That's what it is" Spike said, growling. Drusilla was
sleeping on the bed they had set up. "This damn warehouse. Couldn't be a
mansion. Nooo...that would be too easy. I finally killed that little
shit. Guess there is a new Master in ol' Sunnydale."
 

He pulled his boots off, throwing them across the floor. "Should have
just left the loony bitch in Prague. Too soft. That's what I am. Turning
into a regular mortal, I am. If I have to hear her talk to that damn
doll one more time, I think I might beg the slayer to stake me. Why did
I keep her alive when half the time I wish she were gone? See, I'm
getting senile in my old age." he pulled his shirt off, letting it fall
to the ground. His jeans followed.
 

"Come half way across the world to find that bloody poof. Find him all
right. Making googy eyes at some little girl. Walking around like some
damn human. Playing house with the bloody slayer."
 

He felt a hand on his cock. Looking down, he smiled. "Haven't seen that
in awhile" he said, turning around.
 

Angel smiled, running his hand over Spike's cock. "I had given up on
you, lover. I've been waiting for two years. I so  hate waiting."
 
 

THINGS HAPPEN (9/?)
 

Spike looked at his sire and started laughing. "What took me so long?
You left me with that loony bitch and you have to ask? Did you hear
about Prague? She barely made it out."
 

Angel continued stroking Spike's cock. "I heard. You should have left
her. You would have been here sooner."
 

"Yeah, and then hear you bellow because I left your little obsession. No
thanks."
 

"I don't need Dru. I found my other half."
 

"The red head?" Spike asked, enjoying the feel of Angel's hand on him.
 

"Yes. Isn't she delicious? She made me completely rethink my plans, but
it was worth it."
 

"You rethought a plan? She must be special. Can't wait to meet her."
Spike said, grinning.
 

"There will be none of that....yet." Angel warned.
 

"I saw you playing house with the slayer. The slayer for hell's sake."
 

Angel rolled his eyes. "I know. Things happen. That was the change in
plans. I intended for the slayer to take care of the Master, then, I
would kill the slayer and take over this town. I found Willow two years
ago. Watched her for almost a year waiting for the damn slayer and YOU.
She never knew it. She is bewitching. The slayer finally got here.
Unfortunately, Willow became best friends with the bitch." he said,
frowning.
 

Spike suddenly started laughing. "You didn't pull the soul restoration
thing did you? Angelus, you're going to get your ass caught one of these
days. I can't believe her watcher bought that old gag."
 

Angel smirked. "It's worked so far. Hell, I even had to stake Darla. She
was threatening to tell the slayer that the whole thing was an act...a
game. I took care of her."
 

"Never liked that bitch anyway."
 

"Things are working out though. Willow has chosen me over her little
friends. It won't be long until she is mine. Then, this act will be over
and I can take over here."
 

Spike nodded. "I took care of that little shit yesterday. I'm the master
of Sunnydale right now. Big thrill that that is. As soon as you want it,
lover, let me know."
 

"You aren't going to make me take it?" Angel asked.
 

"You know me. I'd rather not worry about the behind the scenes shit. Too
many rules. I get bored. Besides, someone will need to keep Red company
while you rule this town. I think I might be the man for the job."
 

Angel tightened his hold on Spike's cock. "You don't touch her. She is
mine. My mate. Eventually, I'm sure things will work out for the three
of us, but until then, hands off."
 

"Sure thing Dad." Spike said, feeling his cock twitch.
 

"Good boy." Angelus said, moving his hand faster.
 

"Guess that means the slayer and her little friends are off limits."
Spike complained as he felt his orgasm coming.
 

"Until I say so. Willow is almost ready, but I have to play my part a
bit longer. I don't think she would willingly come to me if she knew
that I was no different than any vampire. She does love me, so that
might help. Ready to cum lover?"
 

Spike groaned as he shot is seed onto Angel's hand. Angel smirked and
brought his hand up to his mouth, his tongue licking it clean.
 

"Glad you made it."
 

Spike nodded. "Me too. Things are going to get interesting."
 

THINGS HAPPEN (10/?)
 

Willow looked at Angel and smiled. She still couldn't believe that he
was hers. Buffy hadn't given up. Her skirts had gotten shorter...her
shirts tighter and more low cut. Thankfully, Angel ignored the blonde.
His attention was completely on her.
 

He seemed even happier the last week. When she asked him about it, he
just said that he had run into an old friend. She was slightly jealous
at the tone in his voice when he spoke of this friend. She refused to
ask questions. She trusted him. She hoped that she was right to trust
him.
 

Angel was happy. He had Spike back with him, where his childe belonged.
Also, he was making a lot of headway with Willow. It wouldn't be much
longer before Buffy completely pushed the girl away. He would waiting
with open arms, ready to comfort her....ready to offer revenge against
the slayer. He had thought seriously of killing Buffy, but now he wasn't
sure. It might be more fun to make her realize that he had chosen Willow
for eternity. He had no fears of her retribution. She was good, but no
match for him or Spike. Either of them could take her in a fair fight
easily.
 

He wondered what Willow would think of Spike. His two loves would have
to get along. He had plans for them. He had thought Drusilla was the one
to make his and Spike's twosome a happy family. He had been wrong. He
had played that game by the wrong rules. By the time he had claimed her,
she was insane. Willow would not be. He would make sure that she
willingly came across. He had no intentions of having another Dru
wandering around. One was too many.
 

He got up and went behind Willow. His hands massaging the stress from
her neck. He still couldn't believe that she wanted to help the slayer
despite everything that Buffy had been doing. She told him that it
wasn't for Buffy, that it was for the people that Buffy protected. It
was going to take a bit longer before she was ready. He smelled her
scent. He would wait.
*****
THINGS HAPPEN (11/?)
 

Willow sat at the table watching Angel. He looked at her and smiled.
 

"What?"
 

"You're happier.." she said, puzzled.
 

"You're nuts....but I love you anyway."
 

"I'm serious" she said, smacking his arm. "The last couple of weeks,
you've seen less tense....more carefree...a bit more wicked."
 

"Wicked?" he said grinning.
 

"See. That's what I mean. Something had to have happened."
 

"You're crazy."
 

"Fine. Don't tell me. I'll figure it out." she said, smiling.
 

"Doubtful lover. Need something to drink?"
 

"Please." she watched him move through the crowd. She saw the
appreciative looks he was getting. She felt something tingle on the back
of her neck. She was being watched.
 

She turned, trying to look around the club innocently. She settled her
gaze on an attractive man sitting alone in the shadows. His startling
blue eyes pierced hers. She felt her heart beat quicken at the look of
lust in his eyes. Lust for her? She looked him over. His hair was almost
white, bleached blond. He was wearing a leather duster and she could see
a red and black shirt underneath. She couldn't take her eyes off him. He
seemed to know her. She suddenly got an uneasy feeling. He was a
vampire.
 

Angel walked back, startled to see Willow staring at somebody. He turned
to look, but all he saw was an empty stool and a cigarette.
 

"What is it Willow?"
 

She turned back to him, her eyes wide. "Nothing. Just thought I saw
someone I knew."
 

He didn't look convinced. Suddenly, he saw Spike walking inside. He
smiled at her, "Why don't we go back to my place. It will be a bit
quieter."
 

Willow smiled and stood. She saw his gaze drift to the blond man. He had
left when Angel had approached her. Angel knew him. Her mind was racing
with questions. She had to know their connection. Was this the
mysterious friend that Angel had spoken of? If so, why hadn't Angel
introduced them? She sensed something dangerous and exciting surrounding
the blond. She bit her lip as she walked past him, her green eyes on his
blue eyes. He winked at her before turning away. She would look in
Giles' books. The answer had to be there.
 

THINGS HAPPEN (12/?)
 

"Giles, you look tired. Why don't you go home and I'll finish inputting
this information."
 

"Are you sure? You can come back tomorrow."
 

"No...I have plans. Angel is taking me...well, never mind. I'm sure you
don't care. It's still early. Not even dark. You've been sick. You need
to rest. Just leave me the key and I'll lock up this evening."
 

"I would appreciate it. I still can't seem to shake this bug. Here you
go. Just give me the keys tomorrow. I have a spare to get into the
office."
 

"Sure thing. Get better."
 

Giles smiled at the young girl. "I'll try."
 

Willow waited until he was gone. She gave him an extra ten minutes in
case he had forgotten something. When she was sure that she was alone,
she went into his of
fice, closing the door behind her. She found the
cabinet that hid the 'secret' books. The books that he didn't want any
of them to read. She knew that the vampire journals were in here. She
and Buffy had tried to sneak a peak at them before, but hadn't been able
to read very much.
 

She looked through them all, sorting out ones that might be able to help
her. She got that pile and took it to the desk. She had told Angel that
she had research to do that night and wouldn't be able to see him. He
hadn't been too happy, but said he'd leave her to it. Sitting down, she
made a brief list of what she was looking for.
 

Angelus....soul....blond man...bleach.... Angel....London...Gypsy
curse....
 

She knew that there was more, but she'd know it when she found it. She
opened the first book, eager to begin her search.

THINGS HAPPEN (13/?)
 

He had never gotten cursed. Willow sat back and rubbed her eyes. She
glanced at the small clock on Giles' desk. 4am. She'd been reading these
books since noon. She had not found a trace of a curse. Angel had lied.
There was never a curse. He never had his soul. Why did he lie?
 

She had found mention in several of the books of a William that had run
with Angelus for years. He was also known as Spike. She read the
description and recognized the blond man she had seen watching her. She
read that Angelus had fallen in love with the sadistic human, embracing
him rather lose him. She suddenly understood why Angel was so happy. His
lover had returned.
 

She read also about a beautiful girl that Angelus had become obsessed
over...Drusilla. She couldn't believe the ways that he had tortured her.
He had wanted her as a mate for him and William. In the end, he had done
nothing but drive her insane. Willow felt sorry for the woman. The book
has said that the three had been a family for over a hundred years when
Angelus had disappeared. No curse eighty years before. There was a
record of him being seen murdering a woman in Milan just forty years
ago.
 

Willow closed her eyes and thought. Why would he lie? Reading about
Angelus, she could see the man she loved. He was there in every
word...every action. She had not seen the cruelty...the thirst for
power, but she was sure it was there, just underneath the surface. She
wanted answers. She also wanted to know how this Spike character fit
into their relationship. Did Angel love him still? She was pretty sure
she knew that answer. Where did that leave her?
 

She couldn't believe that she had fallen in love with a vampire...well,
a not souled evil vampire. She put the books away and locked the library
up. She needed some sleep. Maybe in the morning it would all make sense.
She tended to think better with a free mind. She had to make sure that
he didn't suspect she knew the truth. She didn't want to start anything
that she was unsure how she'd finish. Right now, she just knew that he
had lied and that she loved him.
 
 

THINGS HAPPEN (14/?)
 

Willow woke up. Her mind was much more clear. She had come up with two
reasons for Angel to have lied. One, he intended to take over Sunnydale
and thought this would be a good way to kill the slayer. Two, he
intended to take over Sunnydale and had wanted to get close to her.
Either one meant that he intended to become master. She had read of his
thirst of power....his need for control.
 

She hoped that he didn't intend to kill Buffy or the others. Hell, she
hoped that he didn't intend to kill her. She rather doubted it. He could
have too many times already. That left her with the idea that he had
lied to get to her. This one bothered her too. Why couldn't he have been
truthful? Thinking about that, she frowned. She would have staked him
immediately if she'd thought he was like the others. Instead, she had
gotten to know him and fallen in love. She was a twit.
 

He was tricking them all. He was so arrogant that he thought no one
would catch on. Well, she had. She thought over what he had told them
about the curse. Supposedly, the romany had cursed him when he killed
one of their children. He was to suffer from guilt for all his actions.
She could say this, he had never fed on anyone that she knew about. She
had always seen the blood in his apartment.
 

She had also come to the startling conclusion that he intended for her
to become one with him and Spike. She would be what he had meant
Drusilla to be. She didn't like the idea that he had her future planned.
But, thinking about both of the vampires, she had to say, things could
be much worse. They were both virile, sexy men.
 

She sighed as she went to her computer. She turned it on and decided to
do some research. He had lied to her...to all of them. She would make
him suffer all right. She just needed the right angle. Angelus loved to
play games. This she had read. Well, she liked games too. In fact, she
very rarely lost. This time, Angelus had met his match.
 

THINGS HAPPEN (15/?)
 

Willow watched Angel as he sat at the table with Spike. She had told him
that she had to research for a paper. She had known he'd meet his lover.
She smiled. She had thought of something that would make him squirm.
Lousy lying bastard deserved it.
 

Angel listened as Spike rattled on about Dru. Finally, Spike stopped.
 

"What is it?" he asked, sitting back.
 

"What?"
 

"The whole broody thing? I mean, you don't have to act around me. What's
the problem?"
 

"Willow. She's been avoiding me for the last few days." Angel said
frowning.
 

"Really?" Spike said surprised. He almost sighed when he saw the hurt
look in his sire's eyes. Angelus was a bastard to all but those he
loved. He really loved the red head. Spike hated to see him look so
unhappy.
 

"Yes. I don't know. I sense that something happened. I just don't know
what."
 

"Angel. Good. I found you."
 

Angel and Spike both looked up, eyes wide as Willow ran to the table.
 

"Willow?"
 

"I'm so glad you're here." She said hugging him. She pulled away when
she felt his arm tighten.
 

"What's wrong?"
 

She sat down and smiled innocently at Spike. "Is this your friend?"
 

"Yes. Willow meet William" he said, glancing at Spike. Spike smiled and
kissed her hand.
 

"Hi William. Does he know about your thing?" she asked Angel.
 

Spike snorted. "Luv, I know all about his thing."
 

"Good. I was researching for you" Willow said.
 

"For me?"
 

"About the curse." she said. "I wanted to see if there was a way to
remove it."
 

"And?" Angel said, his voice nervous. She had found out he had lied.
 

"It's bad." she said seriously.
 

Spike leaned forward eager to hear. "What is it Red?"
 

"I can't ever sleep with you Angel."
 

"What?" Angel demanded.
 

THINGS HAPPEN (16/?)
 

"What?" Angel said again.
 

Willow nodded slowly. "It's awful. I found the original curse and
researched it over the internet. It seems that there was this stupid
happiness clause. If you ever become truly happy, you revert back to
your previous uncursed self."
 

"You found the curse?" Angel said, wondering how she could have found
something he made up.
 

"Yes. See, if we ever have sex, you turn back into that bastard Angelus.
I'd hate to see that happen."
 

Spike snickered, covering it up with a cough. Trust the damn idiot to
pick a curse that actually existed.
 

"You found it?" Angel said again.
 

"I am so glad that I did. What if we had done something? Then I'd be
killed by that horrible Angelus. I've read about him. He would have
killed all of us."
 

"He wasn't a bastard" Angel said defensively. "Just misunderstood."
 

Willow rolled her eyes. "What ever. I've found mention of a permanent
soul restoration. If I find it, I can perform it and then you'll always
be souled." She smiled as she watched him squirm. She was winning this
round.
 

"I don't know if I want another curse put on me" he said weakly. He
glared at Spike as he saw the laughter in the younger man's eyes.
 

Willow sighed. "I didn't think you would. Oh well, we can always be
friends Angel. I'll always love you, but I'm young. I need sex
eventually. I'm sorry." She turned toward Spike and smiled. "So,
William. Are YOU cursed?"
 

Spike smiled sexily, "Not even close pet. Want to dance?"
 

Willow smiled. "That would be nice."
 

Angel glowered as he watched his lover dance with his love. He had to
call someone. He had not known the curse existed. He glanced at Willow
and saw the gleam of triumph in her eyes. Suddenly, he started to smile.
He would check his sources and see if his suspicions were correct. Then,
he'd plan his move. She wanted to play? He could play. He had chosen the
right girl.

THINGS HAPPEN (17/?)
 

Angel watched as Willow sat down. The little minx had lied. There was no
curse. Somehow, she had found him out. He had been surprised that she
had reacted the way she had. He had expected tears, harsh words, name
calling, anything except a direct challenge. She had to know that he
would know she was lying. She was playing his game now.
 

He saw Spike watching her and smirked. The damn moron was falling under
her spell. He hadn't said a word about Dru in the last three nights. All
he spoke of was Willow. Willow this. Willow that. Angel was growing a
bit tired of his childe's crush on his chosen mate. Of course, Spike's
affection for her would be nice later on. Now, it would help him with
his next move in the game. He was sure that this would be his checkmate.
He knew Willow well and couldn't think of any way that she would counter
his move. He smiled as he imagined her outrage at being beaten so early
in the game.
 

Willow watched Angel discreetly. He knew. She couldn't believe he had
figured it out so quickly. She had wanted him to suffer a bit. Now, she
was worried. Knowing him, he would make a move. She knew that she would
have to do her best to challenge it. Angel wasn't the type to stay
interested in someone who couldn't play a good game. She saw him glance
at Spike.
 

Spike. That was a very interesting situation. She loved Angel but was
fast becoming infatuated with the blond vampire. Could you love one man
and have a crush on another? There was just something about him that was
addicting. He was a sexy flirt with a fantastic personality....he always
made her laugh at his sarcastic remarks...his impersonations of
Angel....his dirty jokes that he had learned throughout the last hundred
some odd years...If she were more like Buffy, she'd almost believe that
he had a crush on her.....he watched her all the time...always tried to
make her smile...he loved to hold her when they danced...she saw Angel
look at Spike again and smile.
 

She would love to see the two of them together. She felt her face flush
at her thoughts. Bad Willow. But, they were so handsome....they fit
together so well. She could the love in their eyes. A casual observer
might not notice, but she had spent months watching Angel. She saw it.
She saw him start to speak and felt a feeling of dread. It was his move.
 

"Willow...I've thought about it. The curse and all. You're right. I
can't expect a sexual relationship with you."
 

"You can't?" Willow said, waiting for the rest.
 

"I love you though. So, I'm willing to make some sacrifices to be with
you. William is a good friend of mine...my closest ever. I know that he
cares for you and it appears that you care for him. Of course, I'd be
there. I don't want you hurt. Besides, it is the closest I'll ever come
to you."
 

"What?" Willow said, puzzled to where he was taking this.
 

Angel took her hand, his eyes brimming with sincerity and just a tad of
triumph, "Willow, I want you to have a sexual relationship with William,
while I watch of course."

THINGS HAPPEN (18/?)
 

"What the bloody hell are you talking about?" Spike demanded at hearing
his sire's words.
 

Willow looked down, trying to decide her course of action. She had seen
the smug smile on Angel's face. The bastard thought he had her. He knew
she'd never be able to do something like that. Taking a deep, calming
breath, she looked up.
 

"I love you too Angel. I am so happy that you want to stay with me. I
enjoy spending time with you, even if it can't be sexual. William has
become a good friend these last few days." She smiled at Spike, keeping
her face and voice innocent. She noticed the scowl replacing the smirk
on Angel's face.
 

"Really?" Spike said, his face eager.
 

"Yes. There is something about you that affects me....I just don't
understand what it is. Maybe it is the bad boy, rebel image you
project....it could be your sense of humor....it could be those blue
eyes and that tight ass....you make me feel."
 

Spike smiled softly, his mind thinking about what she had just said. He
caught her hand in his and brought it to his lips. He allowed his tongue
to slowly lick her palm, watching her eyes darken with desire.
 

"What the hell do you think you're doing?" Angel demanded.
 

Willow looked at him and smiled. She had told the truth. Spike did
something to her. He made her hot. Angel did too, but there was more to
that relationship. She loved him. She just wanted Spike. She saw the
scowl on Angel's face and almost gloated. The bastard could dish it out
but he couldn't take it. She almost did a happy dance. She had countered
his move. He hadn't won, yet.
 

"I was saying, I want William...almost as much as I wish I could have
had you. Since that isn't possible, I have to accept your offer, with
William's agreement of course. I'd love to have sex with William, with
you watching over us of course. I'd just like to get to know him better.
Sex is such an important part of my life. I want to really know and care
for the man I give my virginity to. I thought it would be you, but since
that isn't happening, I want to know William. Can we wait a week for me
and him to date, alone, so that we can get to know each other? If so, I
accept the deal."
 

THINGS HAPPEN (19/?)
 

Angel glowered at them both. This was not what was supposed to have
happened. She should have blushed prettily and then refused. But no, she
flirts with the blond idiot right in front of him and then says that she
not only wants to have sex with him, she wants to date him, alone. Over
his dead body.
 

"I'd rather you not date him."
 

"Why not?" Willow asked. She had known that this would be too much. She
had won. She never thought that Angel would get so into the game that
he'd actually let her have sex with Spike. She had played her hunch and
could now gloat.
 

"Because" Angel said rudely. "I don't share, damn it."
 

Willow sighed, keeping her expression innocent. "Angel, it was your
idea. I never would have suggested it if you hadn't brought it up."
 

"Don't give me that." Angel said, his voice low and threatening. "You
want him. You admitted that. How long? When I kiss you do you imagine
it's him?"
 

"Of course not" Willow said, hurt that he'd think that way about her.
 

Angel held her wrist, his eyes burning into hers. "How far were you
willing to go? How badly do you want to win?"
 

"I don't know what you're talking about." Willow said, grimacing at the
pain in her wrist.
 

"The game......I'm not an idiot Willow. I can smell your arousal. Is it
for me or for him?"
 

Willow refused to speak. She thought that he knew her. She must have
been wrong.
 

"Who" he demanded, squeezing tighter.
 

"You." she said, anger beginning to replace the pain. "Angelus. That is
your name isn't it? You talk to me about lying and trust. What would you
know about it?" She pulled her arm free and stood up, her eyes on fire.
"I don't want to see you." she said rubbing her wrist. "Game over."
 

She walked out, her head held high. Angel couldn't see the tears that
she was blinking back or the sadness in her eyes.
 

Spike stood, worried about her. Angel shot him a look. "Sit down."
 

Spike saw the fear in Angel's eyes and obeyed him. He sat down. "She
knew all along?"
 

"The clause was her move. She didn't confront me....just made it into a
game. She won tonight. I lost my cool. She actually beat me at my own
game."
 

Spike sighed, "What a woman."
 

"Yeah." Angel said softly. "Game's over."
 
 

THINGS HAPPEN (20/?)
 

Willow stared at her apple and frowned. She had lost them all. Her
former friends still weren't speaking to her. She hadn't seen Angelus or
Spike since she had declared the game over. That had been a week ago.
Her parents were out of town, as usual. She seriously hadn't spoken to
anyone in a week. She wasn't sleeping at all. Whenever she closed her
eyes, they would open right back up. She also wasn't eating. She had
barely had anything since that night. She wondered why she had reacted
so horribly. She had known he was lying. Even played that game with him.
His reaction had put her on the defensive. Well, it appeared he didn't
care very much. He hadn't come after her.
 

She missed him. She missed his voice, his smile, his touch......she was
wasting away without with him. She loved him so much. Without him, she
was nothing. No one cared. Buffy hadn't spoken to her since she was
needed to help fight a demon two weeks before. Xander and Cordelia just
glared at her. Giles hadn't attempted to contact her for research
either. She knew he was getting involved with the computer teacher, so
she assumed he had a lot on his mind.
 

She often thought about tracking Angel down and begging for him to take
her back. Her pride kept her from doing that. She couldn't admit that
she needed him so badly. She would get over him. She had to get over
him. She got up and started to walk home. She hadn't realized that it
was so late. The darkness was setting in. She needed to hurry. She knew
she was to weak to fight anyone off.
 

She had made it almost home when she heard footsteps behind her.
 

"What's a pretty thing like you doing wandering alone at night?"
 

Willow turned. It was a vampire...and he didn't look happy. She started
to run, but tripped on a water hose that was laying on the sidewalk. She
fell and skidded, cringing in pain. She turned, resigned to her death.
 

The vampire slowed down and laughed at her. "I love the chase."
 

Willow watched as he started towards her. Suddenly, he became dust.
Startled, she glanced at where he had been. A woman was standing there,
looking at her curiously. She was striking. She had long dark hair that
fell past her shoulders. Her dress was beautiful lace that fell past her
feet. She had an intrigued look in her eyes that was paired with a bit
of insanity. She dropped the tree branch and walked slowly towards
Willow.
 

"Silly man....he doesn't know you're Daddy's." she said in a lilting
voice. "Oh, Mommy's hurt" she knelt down, her voice soothing. She ran
her fingers lightly over Willow's skinned knee. She brought the blood
finger to her mouth and lapped at it. "Sweet...pure..." she looked into
Willow's eyes. "Mommy's scared of me....I hear your heart beating so
fast....."
 

"Drusilla?" Willow said, remembering the name from her research.
 

Dru smiled and clapped her hands. "Daddy told you about me?"
 

"Yes" Willow said, deciding to lie.
 

"He didn't tell me about you...But I knew. Miss Edith told me that I was
getting a new mommy...a sweet mother that would be nice to me....she
told me that Daddy loves my Mommy."
 

"Miss Edith?"
 

"You'll meet her...She can't wait to meet my mommy....you're hurt..."
 

"Just a scrape." Willow said, her mind confused.
 

Dru stood and pulled Willow to her feet. "Daddy is unhappy. He misses
Mommy. He will be so proud of his princess when I bring you to him."
 

Willow started to protest, but remembered what she had read about the
insane woman. She decided to humor her.
 

"I've missed 'daddy' too" Willow said softly, admitting the truth.
 

"Come. We'll see Daddy and Spike. Then, I will allow you to meet Miss
Edith. Oh, we can have tea. I so love tea."
 

Dru continued to chatter as she looped her arm through Willow's. Willow
remained silent, listening to her childlike joy. She was going to see
Angel.

THINGS HAPPEN (21/?)
 

"And this is my room." Dru said smiling.
 

"It's lovely" Willow said honestly. The room looked like it belonged to
a child. There were ruffles all over the bed and the windows. She saw
dolls and clothes scattered around.
 

"Shall we have tea or shall we see Daddy?"
 

"Tea sounds lovely" Willow said, not wanting to see Angel yet.
 

"Goodie" Dru said, laughing as she pulled Willow inside. "This is Miss
Edith. And this is Caroline. That is Marcy but she's been naughty. No
tea for her."
 

Willow sat on the floor, amused by Dru's endless chatter. She was rather
like a child, constant energy. She had told Willow about her accident
and almost dying. She spoke of the times that she and Spike and her
daddy roamed the countryside. Willow had actually learned quite a lot
from the woman. She was completely devoted to both Spike and Angel. She
also had said that they didn't make her do naughty things with them.
Willow had to wonder if the journals had been wrong about the
relationship between those three.
 

Angel heard Dru laughing and had to smile. He sometimes wanted to stake
her rather than listen to her brainless babbling, but, most of the time
she amused him. She was rather like a daughter to him. He had pushed her
too far when he was courting her....driving her even more insane than
she had been. She had gradually drifted into this childhood that she had
had when she had been happy and all was right. He was content to let her
stay there. Besides, he had Willow. Well, he had had Willow.
 
 

Spike came up behind him. "I smell Willow. Did you see her tonight?"
 

"What?" Angel said, suddenly noticing the familiar scent. "No.....she's
here."
 

They heard Dru laughing and a familiar voice speaking quietly.
 

Angel and Spike moved to the doorway, their mouths dropping open in
shock as they saw Willow having tea with Dru. Dru looked up and noticed
them.
 

"Daddy! Spike! Would you like tea? Oh, Daddy. Look who I found wandering
around after dark. She almost got bit, but I saved her. Couldn't have my
mommy die before we had tea. Are you happy Daddy?"
 

Angel stared into Willow's wide green eyes. "You were hurt?"
 

"Dru saved me" she said softly.
 

"Dru."
 

"Yes Daddy?"
 

"Thank you."
 

"Does this mean no more grumpy daddy throwing things and being mean?"
 

"No more throwing things...." his eyes still on Willow.
 

Dru clapped and smiled. "I like Mommy. Can we keep her?"
 

Spike grinned at Willow then looked at Angel. "Yeah, Dad. Can we keep
her?"
*****
THINGS HAPPEN (22/?)
 

Willow felt her face flush when she heard Spike repeat Dru's words. The
look he gave her left no doubt in her mind what he would like to keep
her for. She glanced at Angel and saw a similar look in his eyes.
 

"I don't know, kid." Angel said, keeping his voice calm. "Maybe we
should ask Willow."
 

"What?" Willow squeaked.
 

Spike shared a conspiratorial look with his sire. "What do you say Red,
can we keep you?"
 

"Oh please Mommy." Dru begged, smiling at the redhead. She had thought
she would hate the woman her daddy had chosen, but she had been
surprised. Her new mother was kind and nice and played with her dolls.
She didn't want her to leave.
 

"Angel" Willow said, her voice almost whining.
 

"It's a fair question Will. I know that I can't make that decision for
you...." Angel let his voice drift off.
 

"Can we talk?" Willow asked.
 

"Princess, why don't you and I leave dear old Dad and Red alone for a
bit. We can go find ourselves a yummy cheerleader to snack on." Spike
said, offering Dru his arm.
 

"Really? Ok." Dru looked at Willow, her eyes serious. "Will you be here
when we get back?"
 

Willow almost said no but saw the look in Dru's eyes and instead said,
"Of course. Don't kill any brunette cheerleaders ok? I have a
friend....."
 

"Only blondes, ducks. Don't worry. Dru has a taste for blondes." Spike
said, winking at Willow as he escorted a smiling Dru out of the room.
 

"Did I just endorse them killing someone?" Willow asked, her voice
amazed.
 

"Appeared that way to me." Angel said, not able to keep the grin off his
face.
 

"What have you done to me?" Willow asked, looking at him.
 

"Not nearly as much as I'd like to" Angel said, his smile fading.
 

"Oh" Willow said, taking a deep breath. "Talk. We need to talk...."
 

THINGS HAPPEN (23/25)
 

"Let's go somewhere a bit more comfortable to talk." Angel said, helping
Willow off the floor.
 

She felt the jolt from his touch. Talk, Willow. Just talk. She reminded
herself.
 

He started to take her to his room, but decided against it. He could
present a much better case if he didn't have his mind on her laid out in
his bed. He took her to the upstairs library.
 

Willow was almost disappointed that he didn't take her to his bedroom.
She knew they really did need to talk, but a part of her really just
wanted him to seduce her. She sat down and sighed.
 

"Why did you lie?"
 

Angel sat down. He decided that if he had any chance of keeping Willow,
he had to be honest. Completely honest. "Let me explain.....at first, I
intended to wait until the slayer had killed the master, kill her, then
take over the town. But, things happen. Nothing went the way I intended
it to."
 

Willow watched his face. His eyes never left hers. He was speaking
sincerely. She had no doubt to that. She knew that she had blanched when
he had spoken so carelessly about Buffy. She had to hear him out.
 

"I was in town only a week. I decided to visit the only club in town.
That's when I saw you. You were sitting shyly at a table, watching
everyone. So innocent. So enticing. I knew then that I had to have you.
I started to follow you. Saw the way your two friends treated you. That
one boy was nice. I won't even say what I thought about Xander. If you
must know, I became obsessed. I watched your house every night, making
sure you were safe. I knew that in time I had to make you mine. My lousy
luck, before I could make a move, your one good friend dies. I could
have stopped it, but I was busy trying to hide myself from Darla. Then,
my little obsession becomes best friends with the slayer." Angel sighed
unnecessarily and ran his hands through his hair.
 

"You couldn't have saved Jesse" Willow spoke softly. She was surprised
that he had had true guilt flash in his eyes when he had spoken of
letting her down by not saving her old friend.
 

"I could have. Regardless, your friendship with the slayer changed
things. I thought up a new plan. It worked, quite well. After I had been
accepted by the little group, I started to get to know you as something
more than just an obsession. I fell in love with you. I never lied about
that. I never lied about what I was like. I don't apologize for it."
 

"Go on"
 

"I'm a bad man." Angel said, frowning. "I have done things that you
could not comprehend. I fully intend to take over as Master here.
Spike...."
 

"You love him." Willow said softly. Seeing his surprised look, she
smiled. "I read up on you....I know about you and him and Dru. I must
admit, she was nothing like I expected."
 

"Dru is a child in the body of a woman. She likes you." Angel said,
smiling.
 

"I like her too. I hate that you lied to me. If you had told me the
truth from the beginning...."
 

"You would have thought me as bad as Darla and the others. You never
would have taken the chance to get to know me. I did the only thing I
knew of to get close to you and to achieve my initial goal, which was to
have the slayer defeat the master. I never wanted the slayer to become
infatuated with me. Trust me when I say that it was not in the least bit
pleasurable. It was always you, Red."
 

"I know I should hate you. I should go tell Giles the truth and let
Buffy stake you. That is, if he would even speak to me long enough to
listen...."
 

"They still hate you?"
 

"Yes" Willow said softly.
 

"I never intended it. I began to realize that it was inevitable, but I
never wanted you to lose your friends."
 

"It's done. What irritates me is that despite the lies despite the half
truths....I miss you....I still love you...I still want you..." Willow
took a steadying breath. She looked into his dark brown eyes. "Make love
to me Angel?" She asked questioningly.
 
 

THINGS HAPPEN (24/25)
 

Angel heard her words and smiled. He moved towards her, running his hand
over her cheek. "You don't have to ask ever again." he said softly.
 

Willow raised her head to meet his lips. She felt tingling deep inside
her secret place. She moved closer to him, eager for contact. She gasped
when he swooped her over his shoulder, his hand resting lightly on her
bottom.
 

"I think we need to go to my room" he said silkily, tenderly patting her
read.
 

She laughed softly, her eyes enjoying the view from behind. He opened
the door, then slammed it close behind him. He set her down, his hands
slowly moving up her sides. He smiled.
 

"Are you sure?" he asked seriously.
 

"Do I have to send you an invitation?" Willow asked, her eyes full of
mischief.
 

He chuckled, pulling her close to him. His lips met hers, his tongue
delving deep inside her mouth. His hands began to work on the buttons of
her shirt. She moaned when she felt it slip from her shoulders and his
cold hands moved over her back. Soon, her bra joined the shirt. She
decided that she shouldn't be the only one half nude. She began to
unbutton his shirt. Groaning when she couldn't undo the buttons. She
ripped it open, sending the buttons flying. Angel pulled back, his eyes
on hers.
 

"Eager aren't you?"
 

"I'll buy you another" she said, her eyes taking in his chest. She ran
her hands over him, marvelling at the muscles. She felt his eyes on her.
She started blushing when she realized that she was still nude.
 

Angel moved her to the bed, pushing her back against his pillows. "As
Spike would say, bloody marvelous" he whispered as his eyes scanned her
heaving breasts.
 

He moved forward on the bed, capturing one of her tight nipples in his
mouth. He heard her whimper at the contact and smiled. His hands became
busy unzipping her pants. He moved down her body, his mouth blazing a
path. He sat up, pulling her jeans and panties off quickly. When she was
fully nude, he looked at her. He caught her eyes. "Mine" he whispered
before moving between her legs.
 

Willow saw the predatory look in his eyes and shivered. She wasn't sure
if it was out of fear or anticipation. She felt his tongue lick between
her legs and she about arched off the bed. Her hands clinched the
blankets as he began to lick and suck her in earnest. She heard whimpers
and moans before she realized that they were coming from her. She felt
his finger slide into her secret place. She arched up again, eager for
more. She closed her eyes as her first orgasm spread over her. She
couldn't catch her breath as Angel continued to lick her, feasting off
her juices like a starving man. She soon climaxed again, amazed at what
he was making her feel. She felt an emptiness inside her as he finally
halted his actions. He shed his pants and moved up the bed, capturing
her mouth with his. She was strangely excited to taste herself on his
lips.
 

"Last chance to stop" he said softly, kissing her face.
 

THINGS HAPPEN (25/25)
 

Willow felt his cock resting against her slit. She needed him inside
her. He was supposed to be a viscous, violent murdering vampire. Why the
hell was he being so considerate? Under normal circumstances, she
wouldn't mind. But not now. She caught his mouth with hers and arched up
against him, taking his length deep inside of her. She felt tears as the
pain spread through her.
 

"It will get better" Angel promised. He let her adjust to his size. She
was something special. He had been concerned that things were happening
too fast for her. What does she do? She starts to take him. He kissed
the tears away as he slowly began to move.
 

Willow felt the pain replaced by something much better. She soon began
to move up, meeting his thrusts. She dug her fingernails deep into his
back. His mouth caught her breast, softly biting into her as he began to
speed up. Her mind was mush. She couldn't think about anything except
what she was feeling. She felt the tingling begin to spread through her
lower abdomen. She screamed his name as she felt him flood her with his
cold seed. She bit his shoulder as she had her third orgasm of the
evening. Shaking, she looked at him.
 

"Mine" she said softly, echoing his words.
 

He smiled. "Yours" he agreed, pulling out of her. He laid down beside
her, brushing his hand over her face.
 

She fell asleep in his arms. He got up and grabbed a shirt, slipping it
over her head as she slept. Soon, he joined her in sleep.
 

********************************
 

"Wakey wakey" a soft voice sung out. She felt something tickle her nose.
She opened her eyes and then sat up quickly.
 

"What?" She said, knowing that she was blushing. She heard a growl from
beside her as Angel opened his eyes and sat up too.
 

"Mommy and Daddy were naughty" Dru said, smiling at Spike. They were
both seated at the side and end of the bed. Spike gave them a knowing
glance.
 

"I'd say, from the smell of things, very naughty." he said, openly
smirking.
 

"Go away" Angel said.
 

"Daddy is always grumpy when he wakes up" Dru told Willow. "You have to
ignore him. That's what Spike says."
 

"Thank you for the warning" Willow said, smiling despite the situation.
She felt Spike's hot gaze on her. She glanced at him and saw the desire
in his blue depths as he looked at her and Angel. "Did you find a
cheerleader?"
 

Dru laughed. "Yes. A nasty old thing. She wasn't your friend.
Melody....Carmony...Harmony. That was it."
 

"You killed Harmony?" Willow asked, hating the feeling of glee that
spread through her.
 

"Nasty old bitch, she was." Spike said. "She damn near attacked me at
that club. Was glad to hand her over to Dru. I felt violated" he said,
holding his hand over his eyes.
 

Angel rolled his eyes. "Why don't you two go away. Anywhere. As long as
it isn't here. Maybe go play in the sun." he softly cursed when Willow
hit him.
 

"You are grumpy in the mornings" she said smiling. "You're going to have
to get over that. I don't like waking up beside grumpy people."
 

"Waking up beside...as in, you here every morning?" Angel asked, his
eyes smiling at the thought.
 

"Where else would I be?" Willow asked innocently.
 

"Guess that means we get to keep her" Spike said, smiling at his sire.
 

"Oh goodie. Now we have a mommy. We can be a real family....like they
have on the tele."
 

"Nah, better than those on the tele princess. A great big happy family"
Spike said, chuckling playfully.
 

"Sounds good to me. It's not like I have anyone else" Willow said,
seeing the gleam in Spike's eyes. She felt Angel's arm go around her.
 

"Don't need anyone else Will. You have us now. As Dru said, a real
family."
 

Willow smiled as Dru offered to get her breakfast. She saw the fear in
Spike and Angel's eyes as the dark haired woman talked about cooking.
She laughed softly. Her family. She liked the sound of that.
 

**************THE END*****************
 

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