Willow heard the door open and looked up, a smile crossing her face as she watched Cordelia practically float into the room. Raising an eyebrow, she asked in a dry voice, "Nice time last night?"

Cordelia beamed, her face almost glowing as she hurried to take the chair opposite Willow. Leaning forward, she said, "I think I must be dreaming."

Willow smiled sweetly as she pinched Cordelia's arm before the brunette had a chance to move. At the girl's yelp and glare, Willow said, "Nope. You seem
awake to me."

"That was cruel!" Cordelia said, rubbing her arm before she smiled again. "But I'll forgive you. I owe you, after all."

"You don't owe me anything," Willow said, shaking her head.

"Yes, I do," Cordelia said, "you gave me Mark."

Willow snorted, "You act as if he was a shirt that I thought looked better on you."

Cordelia laughed, "I could take that somewhere, but I won't. Instead, I'll merely tell you that I had more fun last night than I've had in longer than I can remember. Well, non-demon related fun."

"You have demon related fun?" Willow asked, snickering as Cordelia again glared at her.

"You know, you make it very difficult for one to thankful to," Cordelia remarked, before she grew pensive. "Someone's cranky. Did you wake up on the wrong side of the bed today?"

"It was the right side," Willow said, sighing.

"Uh oh," Cordelia's eyes widened as she laughed. "It wasn't the wrong side that was the problem, was it? It was just that it was your bed instead of someone else's."

"You're happiness has affected your mental abilities," Willow said.

Cordelia just smiled, her mind thinking back over the last week. "I can't believe I didn't see it. You want Angel. I could really be offended that you didn't share that with me, but in respect for our new friendship, I'll forgive you this one time. In the future, be aware that I will expect a full report on any such lusts or cravings though."

"I do not want Angel," Willow denied, her words rather weak even to her own ears. "I mean, not like that. He's just a friend. A good friend. In fact, I met a guy last night."

Cordelia rolled her eyes, "That's not gonna work with me, Will, but due to my extreme good mood, I'll let it slide. For now. Know that I will be watching though and the first time you slip and undress him with your eyes, I'll be there to smile and say I told you so. Now, tell me about this new guy."

Willow had to laugh at Cordelia's antics, thinking how nice it was to have become friendly with the girl after years of animosity. Cordelia's friendship was not given easily, and, once earned, it also included loyalty and tolerance and bad advice. "I saw him last night. Didn't even meet him. It's nothing."

A skeptical look entered the brunette's dark eyes, "If it's nothing, why are you blushing? Tell Auntie Cordy all about the latest hunk in your life as you continue to deny your lust for his Broodiness."

"He's an artist," Willow finally said, laughing in a mocking way as she looked at the desk. "He's not even traditionally handsome really. A bit rough around the edges, you know? His hair is dark and kind of long, to his collar. His eyes are mesmerizing. This wonderful shade of blue that just...." she trailed off as she sighed and looked up at Cordelia. "Isn't it silly to get this worked up over some guy I didn't even meet?"

"You are silly. What's the problem?" Cordelia asked, dodging a paper clip that Willow tossed at her. "Hey, no throwing things! You might make me lose my memory of what happened last night after we dropped you off...then I wouldn't be able to share the details so you could gloat at your successful matchmaking."

"It's still pretty early," Willow said, looking at the clock. "Angel won't be up for hours and I don't expect Wesley or Gunn in until later this afternoon. Why don't we go get some coffee and you can make me envious with details of your perfect evening."

"Envious?" Cordelia repeated, smiling as she stood. "I rather like that. Come along then."

"Yes, your highness," Willow said, grabbing some money from her desk drawer as she followed the brunette out of the hotel.
 

TOO MANY MEN (12/?)

Wesley looked at Angel and frowned, putting down the file he had been reading, "Where did you obtain this information?"

"A source," was all that Angel said.

"Can I say again how I hate those damn cryptic answers?" Gunn asked, crossing his ankles as he looked at the high ceiling. "Angel, my man, there's this
neat thing called a sentence. You string several words together and toss them out so people know what you're thinking."

"Ahem," Wesley cleared his throat, glaring at Gunn as he saw Angel straighten, an unreadable look entering the vampire's eyes as Cordelia and Willow giggled at Gunn's words. "I think we could all do without the commentary, Charles."

"The name is Gunn," Gunn said, not moving his head to glare at Wesley. It wasn't worth it. The other man was completely immune to the withering glares
by now. "Four letters. Hell, one of them is repeated. Why is that so hard for your 'intelligent'," his fingers made little quote marks in the air beside his body, "mind to grasp, Wussy?"

"Boys," Willow interrupted with an amused smile and a roll of her eyes before fireworks could begin, again, "before you two start, can we please have some
idea what's going on?"

"Yes, well, of course. Willow's right," Wesley said, sending the redhead a smile that evaporated as he glanced at Gunn. He looked at the file and said, "Angel has given me a file from his 'source'. It contains information about a Triaakan demon that has recently arrived in the Los Angeles area."

"A triawhat?" Gunn asked, frowning. He hated these information sessions. Show him what to hunt, what to kill, and he was there. Discuss plans and demon
origins? That was just stupid in his opinion. OK, so it may have helped a few times when fighting, knowing strengths and weaknesses of the enemy, but it
was such a waste of time. Listening to Wesley's pompous, condescending, know-it-all, by the book word for word quoted definitions? Well, it just pissed him off.

"A triaakan," Wesley repeated. "A rather nasty breed that usually avoids populated areas. If this information is accurate, our boy has come to LA to hunt."

"Why do nasty demon and hunting make me not have warm fuzzies?" Cordelia asked with a wrinkle of her nose.

"As I said, this information contradicts most of what I've learned of this particular breed of demon," Wesley said, a thoughtful look on his face. "If it is true, I fear we must act quickly. A triaakan is not someone you want hunting in your neighborhood."

"Was that a funny?" Gunn asked, sitting up and looking at the man in surprise. "You just tried to make a funny, didn't you?"

"And I am once again awed by your powers of observation, Charles," Wesley said tightly, glaring at Willow who let a giggle pass her lips.

"Angel," Willow spoke to the vampire for the first time since the night before. She was still confused over what had happened in the hallway between them. True, nothing had happened, but it felt as if something could have. He had come downstairs nearly an hour before but had only grunted at her greeting. Seeing that he was obviously in a foul mood, she'd ignored him.

"Yes?" he looked at her, wondering how anyone could look so beautiful in something as normal as an old T-shirt and jeans.

"Your source. Do you trust it?" she asked.

Angel hesitated, feeling all eyes on him. Damn, he hated this. He didn't trust Lindsey as far as he could throw him, but he also knew that he would not have had this file if Lindsey hadn't been concerned. If he was wrong, he could be leading them all into a trap. If he was right, there'd be another dead demon in the city. With a slight nod, he said, "I trust it."

Willow looked at Wesley and smiled, "If Angel trusts it, I trust it. I'd say we need to start figuring out how to locate a Triaakan."

"I'm with Red," Gunn said, winking at the redhead. "Looks like we got ourselves a demon to kill."

"Why does it bother me that he says that with such enthusiasm?" Wesley muttered before reaching for one of the various demon guides that littered his desk.
 

TOO MANY MEN (13/?)

Willow entered the store, smiling at Kathy as she let the door shut behind her. "Working late again?"

"Willow, honey," Kathy smiled, looking up from her crossword puzzle. "You look tired. Did you not sleep last night?"

Willow laughed, "I'm fine, Mom. I slept at least five hours."

"That's not healthy," Kathy said, shaking her head. "You young people these days. No regards to your health and well being."

"I have a very high regard for my health," Willow defended as she picked up one of the handheld baskets. "See? I'm about to buy fruit which is very healthy. And just for you, I'll buy some vitamins."

"Just trying to appease an old woman," Kathy grumbled with a smile. "You won't take them, so don't waste your money. Hey, honey, what's a five letter word for paramour that starts with an l?"

Willow's face grew thoughtful as she thought. Before she could speak, she heard a husky voice speak softly behind her.

"Lover."

Willow turned, her eyes widening slightly as she gulped. She found herself looking into blue eyes that were watching her with curiosity and a bit of flirtatious amusement.

"That fits perfect," Kathy said, writing in each letter. "Thanks, Mac."

Willow turned back to face Kathy, knowing her face must be flaming. She was even finding it difficult to breathe, able to feel the warmth his body was giving off from his nearness. "Fruit. I need to buy fruit."

Lindsey watched the cute redhead hurry away, her back to him as she went towards the produce. He moved towards the counter, resting against it as his
eyes followed her. He hated to admit it, but he had been hanging around Kathy's for nearly half an hour, hoping that the intriguing redhead would show up again. He had never been so glad to see anyone in his life. He had just known that Kathy would kick him out on his ass after he'd read every single package of chips in the aisle, trying to waste time. There was just something about that girl that got to him. He'd dreamed about her last night. He couldn't remember the dream, but he had woken up with her face on his mind. He'd never even met her, barely even seen her, yet he couldn't forget her. Willow, he'd heard her called. Pretty name.

"You're a rascal," Kathy said, shaking her head as she took his basket.

"Who? Me?" he asked, looking at her in surprise.

"Yes, you," she responded, clucking her tongue. "You 'bout near gave that little girl a heart attack, skulking around behind her and whispering such lewd words."

"I was answering your question and I did not whisper," Lindsey said, his eyes lit with amusement. "Besides, you know that you're the only one for me, Kathy, darlin'. No need to be jealous. Just sell this place and run away with me."

"Fiddlesticks," she said, laughing. "Mac, my boy, you just may have met your match with that little girl. She's one that will keep you on your toes."

"Not if she always runs away before I can even introduce myself," he pointed out dryly as he reached in the back pocket of his faded jeans for a twenty. Handing it to Kathy, he glanced over to see that Willow had disappeared into one of the aisles out of his sight.

"I knew she was a smart girl," Kathy said, handing him his change as she bagged his purchases. "Seriously, Mac. Don't play any games with this girl. She's special."

Lindsey looked at Kathy and saw sincerity in her eyes. With a smile, he winked and whispered, "Trust me. The only games I've been thinking about, I think she'd enjoy."

"Get outta here," Kathy said, laughing as he smiled, looking almost boyish as he again did a sweep of the store, looking for Willow.

"If there was one thing my Momma ever taught me," Lindsey said, taking his sack, "it was to listen to my elders. I'll see you tomorrow night, Kath."

"I'll elder you, boy," Kathy warned, amusement in her eyes as she watched him leave. When the door had shut, she called out, "Willow, honey, he's gone. You
can quit hiding now."

Willow appeared from one of the aisles, a sheepish smile on her face, "I wasn't hiding. He just startled me. I hadn't realized he was here."

"You go back to your shopping, sweetie. I'll work on this puzzle a bit more," Kathy said, smiling as Willow went back to her shopping. Looking down, she almost laughed as she was reminded of both Mac and Willow. A nine letter word for unaware. Oblivious.
 

TOO MANY MEN (14/?)

Angel stilled when he heard the key enter the door lock. He closed his eyes, her scent already reaching him though she was still outside. He listened as she came inside, shutting the door behind her. He smiled as he heard her lock the door. He opened his eyes, glancing at her and seeing that she was carrying a plastic bag. He saw her eyes widen as she noticed him, an almost guilty look crossing her face. For a moment, he wished he could read her mind. What was she thinking? Instead of asking, he said, "I could have driven you to the store."

She gave him a smile, "You were busy. Besides, I kind of like the walk. Gives me a chance to clear my head."

"This area is not the safest, Willow," he reminded.

"Don't go all protective on me, Angel," she warned, her eyes narrowing. "I live in Sunnydale, remember? Compared to the Hellmouth, LA is nothing."

"And that attitude is going to get you into trouble," he said, giving her a look. "You should know better."

"Angel, I'm careful. I keep my eyes open and am always aware of my surroundings," she said patiently, knowing that he was only worried because he cared. She was used to Buffy's protectiveness which made Angel's look almost nonexistent.

"I just worry about you," he admitted, looking away from her. He realized what he had said and added, "About all of you."

"Oh," she said, smiling at his bent head. She was not going to try to understand the small fluttering that had entered her heart when he had first spoken, instead concentrating on the recognition that he was just being a friend. "We care about you too, Angel."

"You do?" he looked up at her, a small smile crossing his handsome face.

She rolled her eyes, "As if you had to doubt that. You're our friend, you idiot."

"Friend?" he repeated, nodding slightly. "Yeah, friends."

"Did you and Wesley figure out anything about that Triaakan demon?" she asked, sitting on the sofa as she reached into her bag and took out a box of
cookies.

"We've narrowed the search area," Angel said, running a hand through his hair, "but it still leaves most of the Los Angeles area."

She smiled wryly, "That doesn't sound too good."

"They dislike water," he said, ticking off a finger, "they hate the sun, they dislike flowers."

"Flowers?" Willow repeated before eating a chip. "So you need a dark, dry place that smells bad?"

Angel nodded, "Which leaves half of LA."

Willow sighed, "I guess I know how we'll be spending tomorrow night."

"Or the next week," he said, laughing softly.

"That's enough," she said, seeing the lamp on his desk and the file that lay open on the top.

"Excuse me?" he asked, looking at her in surprise.

Willow stood, "You've spent all day since you woke up looking through that research. We can't possibly do anything else until tomorrow evening so shut the file. You're coming with me."

"And where, pray tell, are we going?" he asked in amusement as he looked at her.

"Upstairs to watch some TV," she said, smiling. "I'm sure we can find some completely ridiculous movie on this late at night. I have cookies and a bag of chips plus a brand new soda. I'm ready to veg out."

"You want me to watch a movie with you?" he repeated, his lips twitching as he tried not to laugh.

"Duh," she said, laughing as she held out her hand. "Come on, old man."

He got to his feet, knowing there was no way he could refuse such an invitation. He shut the file and turned off his desk lamp before turning to take her hand. He looked at her as their hands touched, wondering if she had felt the same electric shock that he had felt. He couldn't tell anything by the look in her eyes or the smile that stayed in place on her pretty face. He sighed, his finger brushing against her palm as they headed upstairs to watch a movie.
 

TOO MANY MEN (15/?)

Willow was going to kill her inner voices. She would find a spell that would allow them to take solid form so that she could strangle them. Yep, that's what she would do. She shifted on the sofa, her knee brushing against Angel's leg. She slowly counted to ten, wondering if he could smell her arousal. She knew that vampires had a keen sense of smell, had read as much in some of Giles' books. He had to know. Thankfully, he seemed to be ignoring it. Or maybe he didn't know. Either way, she couldn't get the voices in her head to shut up about simply straddling him and kissing him. Of course, then her voices would keep pestering her with vivid descriptions about where the kissing would lead until she could see her and Angel having wild sex on the sofa.

Add to that, the constant mutterings about Mac in her head and she knew she was going crazy. She had never even met the man. Had only seen him twice.  She couldn't get him out of her head. Half of her was completely under Angel's spell, knowing what she felt for him was deep and might even lead to love. The other half of her couldn't forget Mac and the tingling feelings she felt just by looking at him. There was extreme lusting driving her to that damn grocery store in hopes of seeing him. It was pretty pathetic that she had just broken up after a year long relationship with a girl to find herself intrigued and interested in not one but two men. Would her life ever make since?

"This movie is awful," Angel said, glancing at Willow to find her watching the screen.

Willow didn't hear him, lost in a mental image of her in the middle of Kathy's grocery store with Mac pulling at one arm and Angel pulling at the other until she could almost feel the pain. Closing her eyes, she sighed, wondering if she was being stupid for thinking about putting aside her newly discovered feelings for Angel to find out who Mac was and why he made her feel so alive. But Angel made her feel alive, too. Goddess, she should have just stayed in Sunnydale and wallowed in post breakup self pity. No, now she was torn between two men that had no interest in her at all. Could she be any more pathetic?

"Ahem," Angel cleared his throat, his dark eyes lit with amusement as he turned to study her profile. Her eyes were closed, her bottom lip drawn into her mouth. She was obviously lost deep in thought. And, judging by the slight frown on her face, she wasn't happy with her thoughts.

Willow distantly heard Angel and turned, opening her eyes to find him staring directly at her. She felt a faint blush cross her cheeks as she said, "Did you say something?"

"I was just wondering you were able to watch the movie when your eyes were closed," he said lazily, raising an eyebrow as he waited.

"Oh," she looked at the TV and saw that she had no idea what was happening on screen. Looking back at Angel, she said, "I was just deeply moved by that
last scene and had to take a moment to reflect on the perfection of it."

He snorted, rolling his eyes, "Willow, just admit that you weren't paying attention to the movie."

"I was too," she defended.

"So, the scene with those two counselors in bed having sex then getting impaled at the end of that sword deeply moved you?" he asked, smiling smugly as she realized he had her.

She nodded, giving herself a minute to think, "I was moved by the director's message. Sex ends up getting you stabbed to death by a sharp knife."

"Somehow I don't think that was his message, if there even was one," he said dryly.

"You just failed to catch his message," she said, smiling as she looked back at the screen.

"You're impossible," he said, laughing as he went back to watching the movie.

"So are you," she said, an evil look entering her eyes as she grabbed the pillow beside her. She smacked him in the face with the pillow, laughing as he growled at her.

"You think that's funny?" he asked, a playful look in his eyes as he picked up a pillow and hit her on the back of the head.

"Ow, that hurt!" she cried out, glaring at him. She hit him again, her glare fading as he hit back. Soon, the movie was forgotten as she got to her feet and ran from him. They continued hitting each other, their laughter drowning out the screams of terror from the TV. Willow ducked behind the sofa, ready to pounce on him. She caught in his stomach as he came around the couch, his pillow raised. She heard him growl again shortly before his hands caught her pillow and pulled it away. "Angel!" she said, seeing the yellow flash eyes that were still amused. She scrambled away, gasping when she felt his hands close around her ankle.

"Going somewhere, darlin'?" he asked in a sexy drawl as he pulled her towards him.

Willow caught sight of his dropped pillow and smiled, twisting until she reached it. She swung it, knocking him off balance. Angel landed on his butt with a thump as she laughed. "I think you're the one going somewhere, darlin."

Angel couldn't believe she had gotten him. With a predatory smile, he moved, pinning her to the floor and straddling her stomach before she had a chance
to move. "You were saying?"

She looked up at him, seeing the smug, triumphant smile on his handsome face. She was suddenly aware of their positions, the laughter fading as she felt
him against her stomach. She shifted, struggling to get out from under him. "Angel, let me up."

Angel ran his eyes over her, taking in the sweaty flushed face, the breasts that were pushing against her shirt as she took in deep breaths, the feel of her warm body under his. He looked into her eyes and was struck by the obvious look of arousal in their green depths. He took an unneeded breath, letting his grip on her wrists loosen as he sat back, still stunned by the desire he had seen in her eyes. She wanted him? Surely not. It must be the circumstances. He watched her wiggle out from under him, her hand smoothing her hair as her eyes looked everywhere but at his face. "I'm sorry..."

"For what?" she managed to ask, pasting on a friendly smile as she looked at him. "It was just a game, Angel. I'm kind of tired. I think I'll go to bed."

"Yeah, just a game," he said, cursing as she left the room, his eyes closing as he rested it against the back of the sofa.
 

TOO MANY MEN (16/?)

Willow groaned as she looked at the clock. It was only ten minutes than the last time she had looked. She gave up, getting out of bed and going to her bathroom. She showered and dressed, not believing that she was up and awake at five in the morning. Of course, it might have helped that she hadn't slept
at all after leaving the TV room. She'd been kept awake all night with visions of naked Angel and then naked Mac. It had been rather hard to sleep with those vivid images in her mind. She grabbed her backpack, deciding that she'd just get some breakfast and spend some time breathing. Away from the temptation of Angel sleeping right across the hall.

She took the elevator to the lobby, moving to Cordelia's desk. She scrawled a hasty note to her friend, telling the brunette that she had gone for breakfast and would be back in time for their planned lunch date. Taping it to the girl's phone, she knew Cordelia would find it. She left the hotel, sure to lock the door behind her. Stepping into the street, she felt a smile cross her face. She loved this neighborhood. Contrary to what Angel said, she felt no immediate danger here. She was growing accustomed to several of their neighbors. Of course, most of them were around the corner, not directly opposite the hotel. She took off down the street, turning the corner as her smile grew.

She waved at the elderly man sweeping the sidewalk in front of the cafe, smiling as he called out a hello. She knew that he ran the cafe along with his wife of forty years. She had met them both when she and Cordelia went there for lunch earlier in the week. Willow passed the coffee bar, deciding that she was going to actually eat a real breakfast. It was Saturday morning so she deserved the treat.

"Beautiful morning, isn't it?" a woman asked, smiling as she walked by.

"Glorious," Willow said truthfully, rather glad that she hadn't been able to sleep.

Willow entered the small twenty-four hour diner, following the waitress to a booth in the corner. She sat down, sighing as she realized that she had walked several blocks. She opened the menu, studying it intently. Did she want waffles or pancakes? She decided on strawberry pancakes. She placed her order, adding a glass of orange juice. She took a sip of her coffee before reaching into her backpack to find her journal. She had started keeping one months before, finding it a relaxing experience. She had even managed to write down most of her memories of her past, including everything from her first meeting with Xander to Jesse's death to meeting Buffy. She had some journal entries on her computer, but it seemed more personal writing it with her own hand.

She continued drinking her coffee, smiling a thank you as it was refilled. She glanced around, noticing that the diner was getting crowded. Luckily, she was in no hurry. There were people standing around the cash register, waiting for tables. She was glad that she had gotten there early. She knew it was rather selfish to take up the booth when it was just her, but being single deserved some reward didn't it? She took another drink of coffee before losing herself in her writing. She was remembering her night with Angel, still confused over what had happened. She'd lost it. She'd been so close to just forgetting about her fears and simply kissing him.

She noticed the waitress place her food on the table, smiling a thank you as she moved the plate. She inhaled the scent of the food, hearing her stomach
grumble. Goddess, she was starved suddenly. She decided to finish her notes before eating. Her green eyes studied the pancakes for a minute before she
laughed softly. She shut her journal, leaving her pen to mark her place. She used her fork and cut up half the pancakes, eyeing the golden brown cakes
with hunger. Reading for the syrup, she tipped the jar over soaking a few pieces in the sticky brown substance. She put the syrup back down then took a
drink of her coffee as she readied her fork. She opened her mouth and popped the first bite inside, groaning in delight at the taste. She was chewing when
she felt it. She was being watched. Looking up, her eyes widened as she looked into amused blue eyes.

Lindsey smiled at the redhead, wondering if it was destiny or merely stupidity that had made him come to her booth when he had noticed her upon entering the diner. He motioned to the empty seat across from her, asking softly, "Is this seat taken?"
 

TOO MANY MEN (17/?)

Willow swallowed her pancakes, her eyes still wide. She felt like a child, not really sure what to say. How could a stranger have that affect on her? She looked at her plate, hating to speak. She knew she'd end up saying something stupid and silly. After counting to ten, she looked back at him and saw him watching her, an amused smile on his handsome face. She managed to stutter, "It's not taken."

Lindsey felt a rush of masculine delight as he saw her reaction to him. She was blushing and they'd only spoken a few words. He found himself wondering
if she'd blush when he took her to bed. Shaking those thoughts from his mind, he frowned. He'd not even met her yet he was already planning her seduction.
Go slow, Mac, he told himself. This little girl is not in that league. Maybe that was what he found fascinating about her. She was so beautiful yet she seemed so innocent. A part of him craved that innocence, wanted to see the world as she must see it, without the horror of reality. Another part of him honestly wanted to corrupt that innocence. To teach her the truths about the world, to be there to hold her as she realized just horrible everything really was. Hold her? Looking into her green eyes, he felt a slow smile crossing his face. Hold her and protect her. For the first time that he could remember, he had met someone that he wanted to protect, to keep safe. Why did that scare him more than any demons he had ever met?

"Can I sit with you?" he heard himself asking, wondering if she had any idea what she did to him. Knowing that she couldn't possibly.

Willow nodded, her cheeks flushed from the intensity in his eyes. He was looking at her in a way she'd never really been looked at before. She found her eyes back on the table as she said, "Of course."

Lindsey slid into the booth, his knees brushing hers. His body reacted from that simple touch. Looking at her bent head, he again asked himself if this was smart. He should have been running from her, from what she was making him feel, from the instincts she was bringing out in him. Instead, he was drawn
to her even more. "You're Willow," he said softly, watching her look at him in surprise. He smiled sheepishly, "I asked."

She felt herself smiling at his admission, saying, "And you're Mac. I didn't have to ask."

"Guess we can skip the introductions then," he said, glancing up as the waitress approached their table. He ordered the same thing that she was having, looking back at her after the waitress left again. "Please, continue eating. I don't want to be responsible for your food getting cold."

"All right," Willow said, wondering how she was going to eat something so messy without making herself look like a slob. He was even more attractive up
close. His voice did something to her that should have been illegal. Between him and Angel, her libido was in overdrive. She took a bite of her food, aware that his blue eyes followed every movement. She looked up, catching his eyes as she chewed. He was interested in her, she realized with a shock. She
swallowed her bite, not really sure what she should say.

"You're not from around here," Lindsey said softly, watching her face.

"Is it that obvious?" she asked, laughing softly.

"No," he smiled, "I'd have remembered seeing you."

"Oh," she smiled, "you're right. I'm not."

"Just move here?" he asked, liking the sound of her voice.

"No," she shook her head. "Just visiting for the summer."

"You're leaving?" he sat back in the booth, not liking his reaction to that news at all. Good God, he'd just met her yet he felt like someone had stabbed him when he thought of her leaving him.

"Not for a couple of months," she said, intrigued by his reaction. She had to be dreaming. This entire week had been a dream. From Mark to Mac, she wasn't
used to guys finding her interesting much less approaching her.

He smiled, his eyes moving along her face again. "Visiting friends or family?"

"Friends," she smiled, deciding she wouldn't mention too many details about them. "You're an artist?"

"An artist?" he looked at her for a minute then slowly smiled. Nodding, he said, "Yeah, I'm an artist."
 

"Have you always wanted to paint or did you try something else?" she found herself asking as she took another bite of her pancakes.

"I've always wanted to create," he said truthfully, smiling as his food was placed in front of him. "Painting relaxes me. I'm not very good, but it's fun."

"I've never been very artistic," Willow admitted with a laugh. "My sixth grade art teacher told me that I was hopeless and should never again take an art class. I listened to her."

"I don't think you're hopeless," he said with a slow smile. "You probably just had a bad teacher."

"No, she was right," Willow said, smiling. "I can't even draw a straight line with a ruler."

"Lines aren't meant to be straight," he corrected as he poured syrup on his pancakes. He found it easier to talk to her than anyone he'd ever met. Of course, she had no idea who he really was. Maybe that helped. Either way, he found himself falling more and more under her unknowing spell. "Art is vague. You create what's in your heart. There is no right or wrong with art. That's one reason I love it so much."

"You're very passionate about it," Willow said, seeing the look in his eyes and hearing the strength in his words.

"I'm always passionate about things that I love," he said quietly, his eyes moving over her face before he took a bite of his food.

Willow felt her eyes drawn to his lips, watching the muscles in his jaws as he ate. A rush of heat spread over her. She tore her eyes away, taking a bite of her own food. There was something happening between them that she didn't understand. There was something in the air, an electricity that she had never felt, not even with Angel. She didn't know what she'd do if Mac touched her, but exploding came to mind. How could she love Angel and feel this attracted to Mac? She looked back up and caught him watching her, a lazy smile on his face. She smiled, "You know, I'm glad you came over here."

"Saved me from hanging around the grocery in hopes of seeing you again," he said, watching as her eyes widened at his confession. "I've wanted to meet
you since the other day. Last night, I stood around for nearly half an hour hoping you'd come in."

"Really?" she smiled shyly, looking at the table then back at him. "I never would have guessed."

"I'm rather good at hiding my emotions," he said softly, taking a drink of his coffee. Looking back at her, he found himself asking, "Do you anything planned today?"

Willow thought of her lunch with Cordelia, knowing her friend would forgive her, "Not really."

"Would you," he faltered, having to smile at how nervous he felt. For a moment, all of his confidence left him as he realized that this little girl could possibly make or break him. He'd never really believed in fate, but there was something about Willow that made him wonder if she was his destiny. God, he was starting to even scare himself. Giving her a charming smile, he hoped, he asked, "Would you want to spend the day with me?"

Willow realized this was the second time she had been asked that question since arriving in LA. And, for the second time, she found herself smiling and
saying, "I'd love to."
 

TOO MANY MEN (18/?)

Willow saw Mac smile at her answer, a warm tingle spreading over her at his obvious happiness. She looked down at her empty plate, a blush crossing her
face. She didn't understand what he was making her feel. A part of her was scared by these emotions, this raw need he seemed to bring out in her. It was
so very different from what she felt for Angel, but in many ways the same. And here she had always thought her life was boring.

"Are you sure?" Lindsey asked softly, having noticed her sudden silence. Had she said yes just to be polite? Did she not feel the same sparks that he felt?

She looked up, surprised to see a hint of doubt in his beautiful blue eyes. She studied him a moment, somehow knowing that he wasn't often told no. He
seemed like a man used to getting what he wanted. That didn't fit with her usual ideas about artists. He seemed a bit more reserved than she would have
thought. She smiled, kind of enjoying the idea that he couldn't figure her out. "I'm sure."

He smiled a relieved smile, laughing softly, "Had me worried for a minute there."

"Good," she said, smiling back.

"Somehow I think I may have met my match," he said softly, his eyes amused as he looked at her.

"We'll see," she answered, not believing that she was flirting with a virtual stranger, and enjoying it. "So, tell me Mr....what is your last name?"

He leaned back, "Just call me Mac. All my real friends do."

"And what do your fake friends call you?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Uh uh," he shook his head, smiling a charming smile. Seeing her face, he explained, "My mother named me. According to my grandpa, it was a girly name
so he started calling me Mac. It stuck. I rarely use anything else," except at work, he added mentally so that he technically wouldn't be lying to her. He didn't want her to meet Lindsey MacDonald, up and coming lawyer. He wanted her to fall in love with Mac. She already seemed to think he was an artist. It didn't take much to forget his job and become the bohemian painter that she seemed to believe he was. He always insisted that there was more to him than his job. Well, this would be an excellent time to find out if that was the truth or if he was just full of shit.

She nodded, accepting his story. She knew that Xander never used Alexander, would probably die if forced into being called by his true name. She smiled,
"All right, Mac, what are we going to do today?"

"Whatever you want," he answered truthfully. Somehow, he knew as he looked into her green eyes, that he would be unable to refuse her anything.

"Right now, I'm going to go wash this syrup off my hands," she smiled as she stood. She noticed him stand partially as she stood up, the smile deepening.

After she was finished in the bathroom, she dug in her pocket for some change. She went to the pay phone and called Cordelia, knowing that her friend would still be in bed this early on a Saturday. She waited for five rings before a sleepy voice answered.

"This better be important," Cordelia threatened, covering a yawn.

"Hey, Cor. It's Willow," she said, smiling as she listened to Cordelia curse her for waking her up this early.

"Willow, I love you, but it's not even eight! What couldn't wait until say NOON?" she demanded.

"I'm not sure if I'll be near a phone later," Willow explained. "I left a note on your desk about having lunch together, but something has come up. I won't be making it back. Just didn't want you to worry."

There was silence before Cordelia accused, "You met another man!"

Willow felt her face turn red at the accusation even though Cordelia was not there, "Uh...well, um...yeah."

"I loathe you!" Cordelia said, laughing. "Good grief. Remind me to start eating what you eat, OK?"

"As if you need another one. Speaking of, how is Mark?" Willow asked.

"He's great," Cordelia smiled. "We sat up all night talking again. I just can't explain it. We click."

"I understand that," Willow muttered, thinking about Mac.

"So, who is this one?" Cordelia asked, frowning. "And what about Angel?"

"You're still on that?" Willow asked, sighing. "He's still there. And this one? Well, I don't know. His name is Mac."

"Mac?" Cordelia repeated. "You just met him?"

"Yeah, but it feels like I've always known him. Does that make sense?" Willow asked, frowning. "I really like him, Delia, and it's kind of scary."

"It makes sense," Cordelia smiled. "Enjoy your day out. And remember, I want details!"

"Fine," Willow laughed, "I'd better go before my money runs out."

"Have fun," Cordelia said before hanging up.

Willow hung up, turning to enter the diner. She saw Mac looking out the window, a soft smile on his handsome face. She smiled as she went towards
him. Cordelia had said to have fun. She definitely intended to.
 

TOO MANY MEN (19/?)

Willow made it back to the table in time to see Mac receiving change from the waitress. She watched as he gave the overworked woman a twenty as a tip,
causing the first smile she had seen since the rush had begun nearly an hour before. Any misgivings that she had felt in accepting the invitation of a stranger evaporated with that caring gesture. She might not know him, but he had to be kind. She could see it in his eyes, in his attitude. A smile crossed her face as she came to stand by the table.

"You're back," he said, smiling in relief. For a few moments, he had been worried that she had left. He didn't understand why that thought scared him so much. He'd only just met her, barely knew her, yet he felt such a connection to her.

"Of course," she said with a smile. "I was promised a day out, after all."

"The best day out you've ever had," he promised with a charming smile.

She raised an eyebrow at his words, laughing, "That's rather arrogant, since you have no idea how good my days have been."

He followed her outside into the early morning sun, leaning forward close to her ear and saying, "Baby, you've never been out with me before."

She felt a tingle as his breath touched her ear, not even hearing his words for a few seconds. When she comprehended them, she had to laugh, "You're
horrible!"

He lowered his head, tilting it slightly and giving her a hurt look, "Guess marriage is out of the question then?"

She rolled her eyes as they started to walk down the sidewalk, "Ask me again later. We'll see."

"Now you're teasing me," he said, shaking his head as he walked beside her, "You're a cruel woman, Willow."

She gave him a haughty look as she tried not to smile, "Baby, you ain't see nothing yet."
 

TOO MANY MEN (20/?)

"Can we walk there?" Willow asked, glancing up at Mac.

"If you want to spend hours getting there," he said with a smile. Looking down at her, he said, "I have a car. We can run by my garage and be there within half an hour."

Willow hesitated, knowing it was foolish to get into a car with a stranger. She reminded herself that she had gone with Mark, but that had been different. By that time, they'd spent hours talking like old friends. There had not been this threat that she felt from Mac, this attraction that made her want to get closer. Being in a small car alone with him might not be wise. And, honestly, she felt a bit guilty. She had feelings for Angel, thought she might even love the handsome vampire. How could she ignore the attraction and love she felt for Angel? What she felt for Mac was different, more electric. Not to sound stupid, but it almost seemed destined. Why did she have to meet him now? Why couldn't she have met him before she started feeling weird mixed up things for Angel? With Mark, she had known they could be friends. With Mac, she feared that being friends would never be enough. She had only been involved twice in her life. She was not sophisticated enough to manage loving two different people. She knew that she'd have to pick one of them, and that thought scared her more than anything. Good grief, she was getting ahead of herself. She'd only just met Mac that morning yet she was already considering choosing between him and Angel. She might spend the day with him and hate him. She was worried for no reason. With a start, she realized he was watching her with an amused smile, waiting for her response. "Sorry, I was thinking."

"I figured," he responded with a smile. "I've noticed, when you start thinking, you get this faraway look in those pretty eyes and you draw your lip into your mouth," he reached over and ran his thumb over her lip as their eyes held. No one had ever made him feel like this before. He was actually rather accustomed to ignoring his feelings, emotions not really having a place in his life. If he let himself care, he did stupid things like help that bastard Angel. Willow scared him. With her, he could too easily forget who and what he really was. He could see himself becoming who she saw when she looked at him. He should never have introduced himself. He should have been content to watch her, take her memory home and imagine how his life might have been. Now, he could not turn back.

"Um," Willow gulped, his knuckles brushing against her jaw as his eyes darkened slightly, she managed to whisper, "that would be good."

"What?" he asked, wondering if she had heard his thoughts, if she knew he wanted nothing more than to kiss her.

"Your car," she said, not able to move away from his hand, knowing that if he tried to kiss her, she'd let him.

"Oh, yeah," he said, his eyes closing briefly as he heard the huskiness of his voice. One touch and he was standing there aroused. What was it about this girl? Reluctantly, he lowered his hand, remembering that they were standing on the sidewalk. He looked at her and gave her a small smile, "Come on. We'll pick up my car and then I'll show you Paradise."

"Lead the way, Mac," she said, shyly taking his offered hand and following him down the street.
 

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