E-Mail: octajane@hotmail.com
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~Part: 6 & 7~ The Fair
"Hey, we've been waiting here forever," the ex-cheerleader huffed. She took a different tone when she saw the look on her friends face. "What happened? Are you okay?"
Willow gave her a small smile, hoping to alleviate some worry from her face.
"I'm okay."
"Angel?"
"He just walked me over."
"What happened?" Cordy pulled her friend into her dorm room, worried.
"He told me he loved me."
"But?" she asked cautiously.
"No but." She re-counted what he said, what had happened with Buffy earlier and the decision she had taken about everything.
"So what does that mean?"
"It means I have a date with him tomorrow night."
"But I thought you had a date with Graham tomorrow?"
"I do. He's taking me out in the afternoon to a fair."
"Does Angel know?"
"He does."
"How did he take it?"
"It doesn't matter. He doesn't have a choice."
Cordelia was taken back by her reply. The look on her face made Willow laugh slightly.
"I think he was jealous," she added.
"Well you did say he said he didn't want to push you into anything."
"Yeah, and I really do like Graham.."
"But like a friend.."
"A good friend Cordy."
"It isn't far to him though."
"I know, that's why I was hoping to introduce him to a friend of mine. she's going to be at one of the booth's.."
"Make Angel suffer, save Graham's heart. Any other tricks up your sleeve," she teased.
"Other then maybe save the world again tonight, no."
"So are you guys. okay?"'
"I think we will.but only time will tell."
"Then enough with the really sappy stuff.. we have to get fitted!" Her enthusiasm was infectious. Soon Willow was excited about going to get her dress done as well.
"Let's go."
The brunette pulled the redhead out the door, closing the door behind them. Willow held onto dear life as they zoomed to Clara's Boutique in Cordy's Mazda Miata. They arrived in record time, ten minutes before closing.
~~~*~~~
The following day
"Where are you taking her?"
"I'm not sure."
"Well maybe if you stopped pacing everywhere." Xander suggested.
"You're making us all sea sick," Riley added.
"I'm just. just a little on edge that's all."
"Would it be because Willow is currently on a real date with Graham," Giles teased.
Angel's demur turned darker, making the rest of the men laugh.
"I thought he was supposed to be here getting fitted for a tux too," Angel asked a bit suspiciously.
"He got fitted last night while Jenny was here."
Angel nodded, waiting his turn to be poked with needles.
"Don't look so. dangerous Angelus. I'm sure everything is fine," the groom to be replied.
"I know."
"Then why do you still look like you might want to hurt Graham?" Riley asked with humor in his voice.
"I'm sure you'd act the same if it was Cordy."
Riley had to agree, though he did like to tease him.
"Well, I think she'll forgive your stupidity. That and you'll have to wait and see how their date went."
Angel growled once more, making them all laugh, including Giles.
Poor vampire, it was a position none of them would ever want to be in.
~~~*~~~
Graham held Willow's hand as they walked down the noisy path of the fair. Willow held a panda bear, Graham winning it just moments ago in the ball-throwing contest.
In all fairness, Willow was having a fun time, but not as much as Graham was having. He led her to the Ferris wheel, hoping to get some snuggle time with the redhead. The commando gave the tickets needed and then helped Willow sit. The bar was set to secure them in and they were on their way up.
"You look great Wills."
"Thank you," her blush making him smile.
"Enjoying yourself?"
"It's a nice time."
"I'm glad. I was hoping that maybe tonight we could go to dinner."
"Graham. " She was about to remind him.
"Sorry, I forgot. You're meeting the vampire dead guy." he said rolling his eyes.
"Angel. I'm meeting Angel tonight."
"You're still in love with him?"
"I don't think I'll ever be able to fall out of love with him."
"Do I even have a shot?"
Her lack of reply was sufficient answer.
"If this is my last change.then.. Can I. may I kiss you?"
The request was simple and sweet, and Willow could not resist. She nodded and relaxed as he placed his warm hands on her cheeks. He leaned in, Willow waiting patiently. His lips met hers and she kissed him back as he placed more pressure on his part. It was then that they both realized what it had meant.
Graham pulled away and smiled, thanking her for the sweet kiss.
"Friends?"
"Always," she replied with a smile.
Before they knew it the ride was over. They both left, Willow taking his hand in hers, letting him know it was still okay. He held onto her hand, his heart a bit bruised. The redhead pulled him toward a tent, wanting to lighten his mood.
"Come on, we came to have fun."
The soldier followed without question, entering the blue and gold tent. He read the board hanging from the top.
"Fortunes"
"Thought it would be good to have our cards read."
He looked at her a bit skeptical. He was about to comment on the silly notion of card reading, but the sight of a young woman entering in front of them held him speechless.
"Graham, let me introduce you to my friend, Tara."
She blushed lightly as she whispered a "hello" to the handsome soldier. He stuttered slightly, regaining his composure as she offered him a seat at the table. He became more interested in his fortune as he quickly took her offer and sat across from her.
Willow excused herself, feigning thirst. She wasn't sure anyone heard her, but confirmed it at her return an hour later, both hadn't noticed her absence. It was Graham next who excused himself, having offered to get Tara some food to bring. It left both witches alone to gossip.
"He's great isn't he?" Willow commented.
"Wonderful."
The dreaminess in her friends voice made her smile.
"And I think he likes you?"
The blond witch turned to look at her friend, hope evident on her face.
"Do you think he does?"
"You both forgot about me."
"I'm sorry, I thought you were still here," Tara apologized.
"Exactly," Will replied with a large smile.
"Do you think.. Do you think he'll ask me out?"
"I'd bet on it. but just in case, I'll head out."
They spoke a bit more, Willow leaving the witch in the tent, bumping into Graham just outside.
"Willow. did you want to leave?"
"Well actually, Cordy just called me on the cell and they need me to go over. something about the seamstress making the wrong sizing on something.."
"We can go, I'll drive you."
"Well I was actually thinking, Tara doesn't have a car and she'll be leaving pretty late tonight.. And it's really bad walking alone at night. so I thought you might want to take her home."
"That's fine. I can actually drop you off and then come back," trying to please both parties.
"Are you sure, I can walk."
"Now what kind of date would I be if I let you walk?"
Willow smiled. It was nice to know not all chivalry was dead, or at least not all was over 250 years old.
"Let me tell Tara I'll be back and I'll drive you."
She nodded and smiled. It looked like there would be a new couple in the group.
~~~*~~~
They arrived in front of Jenny's house in fifteen minutes.
"Thank you, Wills."
"For what?" she asked a bit confused.
"For going out with me this week."
"I enjoyed myself Graham. Just maybe. not in the way you wanted. You're a great friend and I'd go out with you again. quickly."
He smiled, thankful.
"But Tara on the other hand.. I think she might be more eager to take you up on an invitation to the movies.."
He smiled, taking her hand in his.
"I find you amazing each day I think. You're letting me down softly by introducing me to another great woman."
Wills giggled, her plan unmasked.
"I had a great time Wills. Hopefully we'll do it again soon, maybe as a double date too."
"Solo or with our dates, whichever, I'd love to."
He leaned in, giving her one last chaste kiss on her lips.
"He's a lucky bastard for having your love. If you ever need me to kick his ass for something, let me know."
Willow smiled and hugged him, thankful she had gained a stronger friendship with him.
"Go, Tara's waiting for you. See you tomorrow for rehearsal at the church."
He thanked her once more and let her out of the car. Willow waved and walked up the sidewalk and watched him leave. She walked up the path to the old Victorian house and knocked.
To her complete surprise, it was Angel who opened the door.
"Angel."
"Rua."
She recognized his stiff appearance, not overlooking the way his fists were clenched on his sides.
"I was looking for Jenny."
He stepped aside, letting her enter. She noticed Jenny on the other end of the room, packing up.
"Jenny, you're packing?"
"Yep. Rupert and I signed the closing of the house today."
"But I thought you didn't have a buyer for the house yet?" she asked saddened.
In the short period of time Jenny had lived in the beautiful Victorian antique house, she had fallen in love with it.
"I did. We actually closed today. It was a rather generous buyer. Gave me double of what I was asking for."
Willow could not see the smile on the vampire's face behind her nor the silent finger on his lips. Jenny simply smiled, knowing it was meant as a surprise for Willow.
"Oh. then can I help you with something?"
"Actually, if you wouldn't mind helping me pack up the living room? Angel's been nice enough to stay behind and help me while the others finish moving the other boxes to the new house.
Willow smiled, rolling up the sleeves of her red shirt and asking what to pack up first.
"Angel can tell you. I have to finish off the kitchen. Thanks."
The redhead witch turned to find herself bumping into the vampire. She stumbled back slightly, surprised.
Angel tried to keep under control. His demon was trying to emerge and kiss her, to be true far more then kiss her, with the intent of washing the scent of Graham off her. It had taken strengthen he had not known he possessed not to go out there and throw Graham as far away from his Willow as possible. She belonged to him, or so his possessiveness convinced him.
Willow on the other hand could hear the rumble from his chest, guessing why he was acting rather rigid.
"Where did you want me to start?"
"Hmm. oh, you can start with the frames on the mantle."
She moved with a hum and went to the task at hand, picking up the frames and wrapping them with the newspaper.
"Where are Giles and Xander?"
"They packed up the rental van and should be unloading it in the new place."
"Oh. I was sort of surprised to see you here."
"After we got fitted for the tuxes we came over here to help pack."
"The place is almost empty."
"Jenny wants to move in with Giles before the wedding."
They worked in silence for a bit, Angel's curiosity getting the better of him.
"How was your date?"
"It was very nice," she quickly replied.
"Was it. would it be something you'd like to repeat?"
"The Fair's really nice, maybe."
Before Angel could ask further questions, Giles, Xander and Riley came in.
"Hey, Will. About time you came and helped."
Willow moved to punch him in the arm, making him whine slightly.
"Let's finish getting everything out. I'm sure the new occupant would like their house," Giles commented with a grin.
For the rest of the afternoon and most of the evening all the friends helped move Jenny and Giles into their new home.
By the end of the night, only Willow and Angel remained in the old, empty Victorian house.
"I'm sorry about tonight Angel. I know we had a date planned.."
"Not all is lost Rua. Follow me."
"But all the places are mostly closed."
"Not true, not Angel's Cuisine. Take it, it may have come from some other restaurant, but none the less, it's now Angel's Cuisine only meal."
Willow smiled and followed him to the living room just in front of the house. She was surprised to see a couple of sheets laid out on the floor with candles on each edge. The handsome vampire took her hand and led her to the center of the room, where the food waited to be eaten.
"I think I like Angel Cuisine," she commented with a smile.
"We'll we're hoping this will be the first of many a many nights you will be visiting us here. or maybe even staying."
She looked at him a bit confused, but Angel quickly sat her down on the floor, then taking a seat right across from her.
They began to converse, something they both realized they had missed the most from each other. They had been best friends before they had become a couple. They talked freely and openly, Angel cracking some jokes he had heard just recently.
The couple finished up the tasty pizza, Angel discarding the carton in the kitchen. He returned to find Willow still on the floor, sipping her soda.
"Next time they'll be chairs, promise."
She giggled, Angel taking a seat next to her.
"I had a really great time, even if it was on a floor in someone else's house," Willow teased.
"Better then this afternoon?"
Willow couldn't lie to him, not with the way he was looking at her.
"No. this afternoon was nice. this night was. great.."
Angel couldn't stop staring into her eyes. She was beautiful. He missed her so much it hurt to even sleep. He was seated so close to her, he could feel her warmth.
"May I. may I kiss you?"
Willow was speechless. Her heartbeat quickened, her mouth gone dry. It had been more then a month since she had felt his lips on hers.
The slight nod was all the encouragement he needed. He crushed his lips to hers, both feeling the rush of electricity rushing throughout their bodies. They were greedy, both their arms wrapping around each other. It was the redhead's tongue that seeked out his in a dual that both would win. They fell back onto the covered floor, Angel hovering over his love. Willow pulled away, needing to take breaths. His kisses trailed lower, as his hands moved higher over her body. The small moans that passed her lips made him more determined to please her.
It had been far too long, they thought. The blissful smell of her arousal engulfed his senses, his mouth reaching hers for a searing kiss. Limps wrapped around each other as Angel's tongue devoured every crevice of her mouth.
His cool hand trailed up her thigh, as his other felt the smooth creamy skin of her stomach.
"Angel," she gasped, her lips ripping from his as one of his hands slid lower, cupping her gently though her jeans.
It was the sound of his name that cooled him slightly. His eyes searched hers, knowing he had gone too far, looking at her guilty. He had only asked her for a kiss, but he couldn't control the needs she brought out in him. She hissed slightly as his hands moved slowly over her, making the vampire growl slightly, never realizing just how far they had gone in one kiss.
"I didn't. I was. I just want you more then I ever wanted someone." he confessed.
He kissed the tip of her nose, willing away the painful erection in his pants.
"But I respect you and your decision to wait, Rua. I understood it then and I understand it now, it's just hard. especially when I'm around you."
Willow smiled at him amazed. He had never gone farther then she wanted, and when she stopped him, he understood.
"I know, Angel. That's one of the many things that I love about you. The way you understand me."
"Are we okay? Are we a "we" again?"
"I don't know. I think a couple of more times at Angel's Cuisine are still in order.. Not to mention the crawling, groveling, and begging I promised Faith and Cordy I'd put you through if you wanted me back," she half teased.
"I'll do anything you want me to Rua, anything. As long as that means I can hold you again, to kiss you again, to love you again."
She smiled at him, tears forming in her eyes.
"I haven't healed completely yet."
Angel looked at her with such sadness and concern, that she thought she saw tears rim his own eyes.
"But I think I'm getting there."
Angel pulled her into his arms, hugging her tightly.
"I love you."
"I love you too."
They remained holding each other for some time, Willow pulling away as she thought of the time.
"We should get going."
"Why?"
"I don't think the owner would like two total strangers in his house."
"I don't think he'll mind."
The frown of her eyebrows made him place a kiss on her forehead.
"Trust me, Rua. He won't mind."
"How can you be so sure?"
"Because the owners are right here."
The smile on Willow's face was priceless. But the need to steal it was too great, so he kissed her.
~Parts 8 & 9~ Wanting and Waiting
It had rained for a complete week. Jenny Calendar looked out of the window of her old Victorian house and sighed. She would be married in two days and it was raining.
"You know, some cultures find this as good luck. Means fertility," Willow encouraged.
"Yeah, little Giles and Jenny's running around," Faith teased.
The women had gathered at Angel and Willow's house to make the final preparations for the wedding. It should prove to be a very interesting get together. Her estranged family, only select few, would be attending, as well as Giles', including some from the Watcher Council.
"Do you guys realize the reception party is going to be filled with gypsies, watchers, a vampire, couple of slayers, three known witches, with a dash of initiative soldiers," Cordy said amused.
The other two women laughed, while Jenny asked for the Pepto-Bismol.
"Everything is going to go smoothly," Willow tried to reassure.
"As long as no demons are invited, of course with the exception of the yummy vampire Angel."
Willow smiled, hoping that as well. They were located over a hell mouth, a mecca for evil. Saying nothing was going to happen was wishful thinking.
"Is your uncle coming?"
"No, he still blames me for helping you give Angel a permanent soul. Says I turned my back on the clan."
"Your mom?"
"I think she might come. She's still mad I'm not marrying the man she chose for me inside the clan."
"Your dad?"
"He's coming. He thinks it's funny I'm marrying a watcher. His family is more liberal then my mom's."
"What about Giles family?" Cordy asked curious.
"They're coming, they're just stuffy."
All of them laughed, lightening the mood.
"Okay, run down the check list Cordy."
"Gown?"
"Check."
"All other dresses?"
"Check."
"Accessories?"
"Check."
"Church?"
"Check."
"Reception?"
"Check."
"Are we missing anything?"
"Uh uh. honeymoon tickets?" Faith asked with a sly smile."
"Hawaii I am bound," the teacher replied with a smile.
Faith grabbed the list from the ex-cheerleader's hands and resumed the roll call of the list that she had altered.
"Bachlorette party?"
"Check," Willow replied with a smile.
"Stripper?"
"Check," Cordy answered enthusiastically.
"Booze, Check," Faith crossed out on her list.
Jenny looked on a bit scared and amused.
"Kinky gifts?"
"Triple XXX."
Cordelia said it so confidently all of them busted out laughing.
"Am I going to be in a porn or have a bachlorette party?" Jenny couldn't help but ask with a weary smile.
"Come on, let's pack all these things away. It's time to party."
A skeptical Jenny followed suit, worried and thrilled at the same time as the rain continued to fall outside.
* * * * * * * * * * *
On the other side of town, the men were busy at Xander's apartment, mixing drinks at Giles bachelor party.
"So when's the stripper coming?"
"Right after Cordy comes and kicks all our asses," Riley replied.
"That would be of course right behind Jenny I believe."
"I can't believe what I'm hearing! Are we saying we're scared of our women? That we are wiped?"
All the men nodded with a laugh, knowing that they were.
"Some how I'm thinking that maybe Faith wouldn't be very thrilled about the idea either?" Angel added.
Xander remained mute, downing his drink in one lump.
"So what did she withhold if you did?" Angel asked, knowing the couple too well.
The young man looked at the cup on the counter and replied one word.
"Sex."
"Wiped," they all said laughing as they all took shots of tequila.
"Like if your significant others didn't withhold it either if we did have a stripper or something."
"Cordy said I couldn't touch her for at least a month," Riley replied, the alcohol affecting everyone slightly.
"Try not getting near Faith for six months."
"Jenny said something about when her mother approves us if I saw someone else naked that was not her."
Angel chuckled. Taking a sip of his whiskey.
"What about you?" Riley asked the vampire.
"I'm on probation remember. anyway she played the guilt trick with me. She smiled and told me she trusted me to do the right thing."
"Ouch, I think I prefer the threat to the guilt."
"Then what are we going to do for the rest of the night if no stripper?"
"Poker."
"For money?"
"Nah, we were thinking about something a bit more interesting," Riley replied .
"Okay, but no strip poker. If I can't see a woman I hell as don't want to see a man."
They all laughed, getting ready to set up the table.
* * * * * * * * * * *
"You know, I still have to be able to fit into that dress in two days. I don't think the two gallons of double fudge chocolate ice cream is helping my figure," the bride to be commented.
"I'm thinking we all are going to have to visit the seamstress again if we keep stuffing ourselves like this."
"I say, who cares," Faith voted.
"I second that," Willow added with a mouth full of Mint chocolate chip ice cream.
"Okay, so we've done our nails, some makeup tricks via Faith and Cordy. Now what?"
"Since we couldn't have strippers.." Faith began, taking a videocassette from her bag.
"What do you have there?" Jenny asked a bit taken back as well as excited.
"A girl night out, betrayal, lust, vengeance or just a soft porn."
"Oh you mean Melrose Place?" Willow commented.
With a chuckle, Faith popped in the video, as they all dove in for more ice cream and popcorn.
* * * * * * * * * * *
"I pick Riley," Xander choose.
"Fine. Cordy snores."
They all couldn't help but laugh slightly at that revelation.
"Hey! It isn't that bad. it's actually cute really.. It isn't loud or anything, it's faint, but I don't have the heart to tell her."
The men were on their tenth hand at poker. So far they had learned that Faith had an ear fetish, Jenny had cold feet all the time, Willow had a secret craving each month for French fries dipped in mint ice cream, Cordy had a rather large birthmark on the side of her ribs.
They had all elected to play poker, each winner questing one of the losers to reveal something about them or their girlfriends. With each drink, it seemed each questions was getting a bit more personal. The commando won the next came, beating Angel barely.
"Okay. What is the most delectable part of your mates "assets"? Question to all."
They all didn't really have to think about it, all knowing pretty much what they liked looking at or touching most.
"Faith. call me a pig, though she likes it, her boobs."
"Jenny. to be polite, her eyes, truthful. her legs."
"Willow. her soul. and her ass."
"Cordy. I'm a pig too, boobs."
Again they played another hand and Giles asked the next question.
"What do you most love about them?"
"Faith. the way she understands me."
"Cordy. the way her mind works."
"Willow. the way she loves me unconditionally."
"Jenny. The way she makes me feel alive."
"We are some pretty lucky bastards."
They raised their drinks and toasted to the beautiful women in there life.
* * * * * * * * * * *
"There is no way.." Cordy began to comment.
"Oh there is a way," Faith assured.
They all looked at Faith, the slayer for once turning slightly red.
"It's all skill."
They laughed not sure Faith could turn any redder.
"So I'm thinking, Xander's an acrobat," Cordelia teased.
"One in training," Faith laughed. "What about Riley?"
"No complaints at all," the may queen replied with a large smile.
All eyes turned to Jenny, knowing all to well she had to answer.
"I'd say Rupert knows exactly what I need," Jenny assured.
And Willow knew she was next, but she didn't have much to contribute.
"I'm thinking with all those years of experience under his belt, Angel must be close to perfection," Faith suggested, with the rest of the ladies agreeing.
"But Willow doesn't know just yet right?"
"Nope, not yet."
"And he's still cool about it?" Faith asked.
"It's doesn't matter if he is or isn't, Willow isn't ready yet," Jenny defended.
"He's very understanding. I'm surprised and grateful of the control he has. sometimes. sometimes though it's hard to stop. when he touches me. it feels like I'm melting." she replied, her cheeks a bit flush.
"Can you just imagine how it'll be once you both. do it? If you feel like that when he touches you, you'll combust later."
"Still thinking till marriage?" Jenny asked curious.
"I'm hoping, I'm just not sure I can make it," she smiled. "How were you so sure about it?"
"Well mine, I wished I had waited. How romantic it was in back of a pinto."
"A pinto?"
"Yeah. I was rebellious. My parents told me I couldn't even date, and well I was very against them when I was 16. I met this guy, and he told me how much he loved me, and how he was going to take me away from there. It was over in two minutes. All I remember was how much it hurt."
"Curiosity got the better of me. I was dating this jock just before I met Xander. We were at a party and before I realized, we had gone too far to turn back. It was okay, no biggie. I wasn't really in a hurry to go and do it again. That is until Riley, he's just great."
"Faith?"
"No mushy story. It was just after I had learned I was a slayer. Some guy I met at a club. I didn't want to be alone that night. I guess I was scared and just wanted someone to hold me. I was lucky, he did after."
"I guess I'm still in the romantic notion of spending an eternity with the love of your life and just wanting him forever. Maybe I'm being childish."
"I don't think you are. I would have wanted that too," Faith replied.
The reassurance made Willow feel stronger about her stand.
"I just want to completely be in love with him."
"Are you?" Cordy asked.
"I am."
"Then I think your good to go," Faith replied.
"Come on, I think someone's getting presents," the brunette suggested, changing the subject.
They all got up, heading to the living room that held some ten or so presents for the bride to be.
"Should I be worried?" Jenny asked as Cordelia handed her the first present.
"Maybe," Faith replied.
Jenny opened the box and smiled as she pulled out a red teddy.
"Thought you might want to use it for the honeymoon."
The next few presents ranged from bath oils to something's that made Jenny blush. All in all, it was the best presents she could have received.
"Thank you all. And I promise to use as many of the gifts as possible," she humored.
"Something tells me Giles will be happy with the presents as well," Cordelia smiled.
"Wow, Jenny, you're getting married in two days," Willow said excitedly. "Jenny Giles."
"Or Jenna Calendar-Giles."
The bride to be smiled widely. What a wonderful name to change to.
"I like Jenna Giles."
"What about Faith Harris?"
"Or maybe Cordelia Chase-Finn?"
"Willow Kavanagh?"
They all laughed, wondering if their last names would change someday.
"How do you know he's the one Jenny?" Faith asked.
"I don't know. There's this part in me that just knows. A part of me that is in complete peace and harmony with him. I want to have a family with him. I want to spend forever with him. I love him."
The three women immersed themselves in their thoughts, each trying to picture themselves married to their boyfriends.
"And who will be the one that catches the bouquet?"
"I don't know, but my bets are that Will's the next one down the aisle," Faith guessed.
"Why me?"
"So you'll be able to sleep with him," Cordelia encouraged.
They all chuckled, making Willow blush.
"Do you think you'd want to marry Angel?"
"I think of him and I think forever. I'd risk the chance of being turned if I had to," she replied without hesitation.
The other looked at her a bit surprised. Willow was a committed woman.
"I'd go with Riley if he asked me to move with the Initiative with him," Cordelia whispered.
"I'd give up the slaying for Xander," Faith said to everyone's surprise.
"But if they love you, they won't ask you to give up anything," Jenny replied.
It was that knowing smile from them all that confirmed it. They knew their love ones would not ask, but that didn't mean they wouldn't sacrifice that much for them.
"Okay, enough with the mushy. We are four lucky broads that have found four great guys. Now let's party."
Faith pushed the button on the CD player and all the women stood up. The speed of the tempo picked up, mirroring their own emotions. They swayed, dancing freely to the music all night long.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Angel entered the Victorian home just before sunrise. He was a bit tired, having been designated as the driver for everyone. He had dropped off Riley and Giles, leaving Xander sleeping on his sofa.
He had raced over, beating the sun barely. He checked the house quickly, making sure everything was locked up tight. He managed not to trip over the mess in the living and dining room, not daring to venture into the kitchen. He raced up the stairs, pulling his shirt off in the process. He walked down the hallway, unzipping his pants. He quietly entered the bedroom, a large smile on his face as he saw Willow just on the edge of the bed, sleeping with a book in hand. He knew by routine, that she had waited up for him and as usual had fallen asleep.
He quickly went to the bathroom, cleaning up and putting on some pajama bottoms. He moved to the bed, crawling into the queen bed next to her. He managed to place his arm below her body, pulling her towards him in the middle of the bed, cradling her against his chest. He smiled, closing his eyes as he buried his nose in her hair, inhaling the soft scent of lavender. After two months of trial studies as Willow liked to call them, she had permitted Angel once again to touch her. That being achieved, he had immediately asked her to move in with him in their new house. After a week of debate and some encouragement from Faith and Xander, not including Cordelia, Willow had decided to pack up her belongings and move out of the house she had grown up in, moving in with a handsome vampire. It wasn't to say she never visited her old house. She had sold the French house fortress to Riley Finn. Not to everyone's surprise, Willow was owner of the house once she had turned 18, her parents moving to Boston, having completed there parental duties.
It wasn't very hard giving up the old house, the only memories she had there were with Xander and with Riley the new owner she would revisit them as often as she wanted.
She turned in his arms, searching the comfort of his chest and neck. He growled deep in his throat as her silky warm legs wrapped around him, her lips placing a kiss just above his shoulder, close to his neck.
"Have fun tonight?" she asked sleepily.
"It was nice. How about you?"
"Nice too," she replied, her body still trying to find just the right spot to mold against the vampire.
On his part, the vampire was trying very hard not to move, his senses and hormones on over drive. She wiggled against him, finally settling against him. Angel moved away slightly, trying not to press his hips into her, not wanting to frighten her. Willow, however, seemed oblivious, her hips trying to settle along his. It was then that she felt something quite large and hard against her. Her wide eyes looked up, Angel's smoldering gaze upon her.
"You do this to me, Rua, only you," his husky voice spoke.
"How?" she whispered, surprised.
"Just by being close to you.thinking of you. looking at you..," he replied silkily as he placed kisses on her forehead and cheeks.
Willow seeked one of those light kisses, but the moment his lips touched hers, fire spread throughout her body. She moved closer to him, his arms crushing her breasts to his naked flesh. He could feel her heated flesh against his own fueling his need for her growing to an unbearable pitch. His hands were everywhere, urging her own to explore as well. She reluctantly pulled away from the kiss, her burning lungs taking rapid breaths.
"Is this. will it be this. intense. when we're finally together?" she managed to rasp out between moans, her fingers buried in his brown locks. Inflamed by the thought and question, his hips surged forward, grinding against her own.
"We'll be consumed by the fire," he husked back. His hand moved up to her short fiery locks, pulling her mouth back up to his.
The redhead could only whimper, struggling with the decision she was about to make.
She managed to pull back, both gasping for breath from its intensity.
"I want to be consumed," she whispered.
Dear God, did he hear her correctly? Did she have any idea what those simple words meant to him? His body trembled, his already hard member twitching against his pajamas.
"Rua," was the only word he could manage to say, even then breathless. He crushed her to him, his mouth bruising hers in his need for hers. His hand immediately ran to the front of her nightshirt, the buttons falling open by skillful hands. It was happening so quickly, Willow had no idea what was happening until she felt his lips at the crest of her breasts.
The vampire's eyes, lips and hands feasted about her. Her mauve nipples hardened, begging for his lips. His hands settled on her petite waist, his hands trembling slightly as it felt her smooth skin under his palms. He looked down at Willow, hearing her whimpers as his hands moved upward, his thumbs tracing the curve of her breasts. The witch looked up into smoldering light brown eyes, licking her lips, and nearly bucking off the bed at the feel of his thumbs flicking her tight nipples. The moan that escaped her lips made the vampire growl deep in his throat.
It was the enticing scent of fear that broke the trance the vampire was in. The scent was faint, mixed in with confusion, desire and the wonderful scent that was uniquely Willow. He pulled back, his hand reaching for the ends of the parted shirt, pulling it closed once again with trembling hands. The redhead looked at her love with confusion, unsure what was happening, or lack there of.
"Angel?"
"Not yet, Rua. Not until we're married."
He silenced her with a kiss, his body trying to control the effect she had on him.
"Don't you want.?"
Angel almost laughed.
"Do you even have to ask?" his hips gliding against hers, the proof quite evident.
"But."
"I know you, Rua. I know you want to wait. You've been set on it for so long. I can still remember the night a couple of months ago when you hit me to remind me we weren't going any further."
"You aren't mad are you?"
"Never. Never with you.."
"I'm just worried that by making you wait. you'll leave. find someone who will."
"Like Buffy?" he asked.
The tears were in her eyes and it made Angel's heart break. She nodded, looking away from him. His hand touched her wet cheek, wiping away the tears with this thumb.
"I'd wait an eternity for you."
The sincerity in his voice made her turn to look at him.
"I love you Willow. And I want you as I have never desired anyone. What we have is something I'd defend until I no longer exist. She falls extremely short in every way to you. and if you let me. I'll prove it to you every day.. "
"I'm sure you never had someone ask you to wait."
"No, I never have, but then again I've never met someone so full of life and fire like you. Someone that with one look can make me forget my thoughts. With a touch can set me aflame.. "
"I love you Angel and I still can't believe you can love me for me. and wait for me."
"It's a challenge, I'll be honest. but when I think of our waiting. I feel like I may someday feel worthy of not just your love for me, but for the wonderful gift you give me so willingly."
She kissed him, all her emotions conveyed. She pulled away, panting against his tempting mouth.
"We can still touch each other," she reminded him.
Angel took a deep unneeded breath.
"Yes, we can."
And for the rest of the night that was exactly what they did.
~Parts 10 & 11~ The Wedding
The ceremony had been beautiful, Jenny and Giles having elected to be married outdoors to inside the church. To everyone's surprise and relief, the ceremony had gone off without a worry.
The ceremony had begun just after sunset, surprising some of the guests. It lasted roughly an hour, Giles and Jenny reciting their own made vows. There were no ascensions, no vampires, or demons to disturb the beautiful ceremony, which made them all happy, but, weary. Would it be too good to be true to hope the reception would go without a hitch as well?
After many a shed tear, the ceremony was over, with a releasing of doves that Giles had arranged for Jenny. The kiss that followed made many blush and the men clear their throats. Ten minutes away, they moved to the reception party that was held adjacent to the park in the open, the large white tent marking the location.
Riley snuck his arms around the waist of his precious love, hugging her to him.
"They look happy."
"Delirious I think," Cordelia said sweetly.
Jenny and Giles danced their first dance together as man and wife, the onlookers halting their discussion to see the happy couple glide across the floor.
"Think we might be as happy as they are?" Cordy asked.
"I think we already are."
She turned in his arms, kissing him tenderly.
"I'm a lucky woman to have you."
Before he would reply Cordelia kissed him again.
* * * * * * * * * * *
"You think ours will be like this?" Xander asked quietly.
Faith almost tripped over her feet as she turned around to face him, the look on her face priceless.
"What? You don't think about us this way?"
"Yeah, but. I didn't think you really thought about it."
"Remember, I can be a lot mushier then you can be," he reminded her as he placed a kiss on her nose.
"So, you'd consider marrying a Slayer?" Faith asked as she wrapped her arms around him.
"If she'd have me, sure. At least I know we'd be busy every night."
She didn't miss the glint in his eye and couldn't help but punch him lightly on the arm, wondering how the hell he could make her blush.
* * * * * * * * * * *
"You look beautiful tonight," Angel said as he tucked her against him on the dance floor.
"Not to bad yourself either," she teased as she leaned her head against his shoulder.
"I try," he mused as he leaned in to kiss her softly.
"Hmm. I think I can stay like this forever."
"That's what I was thinking," he replied with a smile.
Willow closed her eyes, enjoying the feel of being in his arms. They swayed in perfect harmony together. It was a slight noise that caught Willow's attention. She opened her eyes her vision looking by the large cake that was on the far corner of the large tent. That's when she noticed something wrong.
"Angel.."
"Hmmn."
"The cake is turning green."
They stopped dancing, both turning to take a look. The tip of the five-story cake was slightly turning green, beginning to spread upward. Willow took his hand and moved off the dance floor, toward the table. But before they could get there, Xander and Faith stopped them.
"We have trouble."
"We know."
"You saw her?"
"Saw who?" Willow asked slightly confused.
"Buffy. What are you talking about?"
"Buffy here's?" the redhead squeaked.
"She's by the cemetery heading this way."
"She's drunk too," Faith added.
"I'll handle this," Angel quickly replied.
Willow looked at him, the sudden paleness of her face making Angel worry.
"I love you," he replied as he placed a kiss on her lips.
Willow nodded. She knew he did, she believed him now, but there was still some old wounds that hadn't completely healed.
"I'll go with you. You're going to need all the help you can get," Xander volunteered.
"Thanks. Hopefully we won't be long. Let's keep it between us. It's Giles and Jenny's day, let's not ruin it by telling them we have problems."
They all agreed, Faith and Willow deciding to find Riley and Cordelia. They parted, each heading for a different side.
"What did you find?"
"Look at the cake."
Faith did as told and noticed a rather large green spot on the first layer. Something to the side caught her attention as they moved among the mass of people.
"Red, did you notice it's the food too?"
They moved faster, bumping into the couple they needed.
"We have problems."
"We know."
"How do we stop it?" Cordy asked.
"Find who's doing it," Willow replied.
"Graham is fighting him as we speak," Riley replied.
"Who?"
"The demon?"
"What demon?" Faith asked confused.
"What are you talking about?" Cordy asked irritated.
"The food and Buffy."
"Buffy's here?"
"Xander and Angel went to take care for her. And someone is turning the food green."
Cordelia and Riley looked around disgusted.
"Then I take it you haven't looked at yourselves," Cordelia commented.
Willow and Faith did as told, noticing what she was worried about.
"Our dresses!"
The fabric of their dress was fading slightly, making it close to transparent.
"If we don't find whose ever doing this, we're going to be on display nude!" Cordelia nearly screamed.
"Okay, Riley what demon?"
"A Narso demon."
"But I thought they were peaceful demons?"
"Not when you've disturbed his hibernation."
"Okay, Riley help Graham, hold him off as much as you can. Cordelia, find Tara and find who ever is doing this to our clothing please. Faith and I will try to find who's molding the food."
With orders in hand, they went off, hoping to stop the problems before Giles and Jenny found out about them.
* * * * * * * * * * *
"You are not going in!" Xander finally yelled.
They had been trying to reason with Buffy for the past ten minutes with no luck and Xander was losing his patience.
"They invited me!" she screamed back.
"They uninvited you when we had the church rehearsal," he reminded her. He still had the gash on his arm from the cross she had tried to imbed inside him. Wounds like that took time to heal, even more, scars took even longer to fade.
"I said I was sorry already. And I didn't aim it at anyone, it slipped," she tried to explain.
It was in that moment that Angel sensed someone coming. With speed he only possessed, he grabbed Buffy around the waist, pulling her against him with a hand over her mouth, dragging her on the other side of the tree, melting against the shadows.
"Xander, what on earth are you doing here?"
The young man turned around, trying to think of anything.
"I'm.. I'm.. well, see.. I.. I'm waiting for Angel."
"Why?"
"Because. because he's feeding.."
"Out here?"
"Yeah, well, Willy's is too far. and well. we hunted for.."
"I'm not quite sure I need to know any further, Xander. I shall take your word for it."
Xander fidgeted slightly, hoping he didn't notice he was lying big time. "Is everything all right?"
Xander began to laugh, making a face with a sign of relief.
"Everything's fine, what would make you think that? It's your wedding, nothing going to happen."
"All right. when you are both. finished, please join us. We're thinking about leaving soon."
"Will do G-man."
With a roll of eyes, Giles left, leaving Xander behind. Without a second thought, Angel hit him up side his head.
"Feeding?"
"Hey, what was I supposed to say? And that hurt. What's with her?" he asked as he rubbed his head.
"I got her to sleep."
"Sure. I'm not asking how."
Xander walked behind Angel, with a sleeping Buffy over the vampire's shoulder.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Willow and Faith found the woman on the other side of the tent. She was seated just outside of the dance floor, looking out into the dark night. To their surprise, it was Jenna's sister, Cecil.
"What do we tell her? Stop making the food turn green?" Faith asked unsure.
"I don't know," Willow replied trying to think of something.
"How can we even be sure it's her?"
"I'm thinking the green food she's playing with on her plate may be a clue."
Faith snickered at her, grabbing the attention of the young woman.
"Are you okay?"
The young brunette wiped her tears from her cheeks, looking up a bit shocked at the two women.
"Yes, of course, why?"
"Because you're turning all the food green." Faith replied.
Cecil looked down at her plate a bit confused, seeing what she was causing. The plate fell from her hands, unaware what she had done.
"I'm sorry, I didn't know."
"Can you reverse what you're doing?"
"I'm not sure. I wasn't aware I was doing it."
"Why were you crying?"
"Nothing."
"I think it's something for you to be changing food."
"I was just thinking.of Marcus.."
"Marcus?"
"Jenna's betrothed."
"He's here."
"He's with mama."
"Why?"
"So Jenna would see what she was losing by marrying Rupert."
"I don't think Jenny really cares," Faith commented.
"But I do." Cecil whispered.
"You love him.." Willow noticed, placing her hand on her shoulder. Cecil smiled, her secret finally out.
"Does he?"
"I don't know."
"You won't know until you ask," Faith encouraged.
"My mother would be furious if I did."
"You have two choices in front of you. You can either ask him to dance or you can stay here and never know. About your mom. you never know, she might be happy one of her girls will be marrying in the clan."
Cecil had never really thought about it that way. It was always frowned on to look at someone betrothed with wishful eyes. But Jenna was getting married, the deal was null, wasn't it?
"Can you live with never knowing?"
She looked at Willow, then at Faith, a small smile forming.
"No, I'd never be able to."
Cecil stood up, much to Willow and Faith's relief and walked over to the table her mother and Marcus were sitting at. They only hoped he said yes. The surprise on the gentleman face's man and her mothers was priceless. Without any hesitation he took her offer and stood, taking her hand in his and walked to the dance floor.
Lost in the romantic match they gave a little help to, they nearly jumped out of their skin when Jenny spoke in back of them.
"I've been looking everywhere for you. Where are they rest?"
"We. we've been match making," Faith replied truthfully.
Her confusion was cleared up when Willow pointed to her sister on the dance floor. She smiled and hugged her bridesmaids.
"Thank you."
"It was nothing," one of them muffled.
"I always suspected they would be good together. Well, I was thinking about cutting the cake, what do you think."
"NO!"
Jenny was slightly taken back by their unanimous reply.
"We mean. just not right now."
"Why?"
"Because Angel isn't here," Faith blurted out.
"Where is he?"
"He was hungry. so he went to Willy's real quick and he really wants to be here for the cake, he loves cake, and he really really wanted to eat yours.," Willow replied in one heap.
"Is everything all right?"
"Of course, what would be wrong?" Faith asked.
Jenna smiled, wondering what they were up to.
"Okay, then, we'll wait. Let me know when he gets here."
"I will, now go dance a few more with your husband, Mrs. Rupert."
She smiled, giving the women a bit of advice.
"I wasn't aware the dresses were so sheer, might want to stay away from direct light."
They both turned slightly red, quickly rushing on, hoping Cordelia and Tara had found the pervert.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Angel put Buffy down by the tree once they found Graham and Riley holding back the blue demon. They rushed over to Willow, who was busy mixing something in her hand with Faith.
"What's happening?"
"We woke him up and his cranky," Faith answered casually.
"Hey, we could use some help here," Riley yelled.
On cue, Willow finished grinding, and placed the powder in the witch's hand. The redhead blew the golden powder at the disturbed Narso. With a few spoken words the demon fell back to the ground, out cold.
"That should keep him asleep for a while."
"Go Red!" they cheered.
The redhead blushed slightly embarrassed.
"What the hell is going on!?"
The group turned to find Buffy rushing at them, yelling at the top of her lungs. Willow simply smiled and blew the remaining powder on her. The ex-slayer didn't know what hit her as she fell flat on her face, snoring. Angel wrapped an arm around his petite love and swung her against his body, placing a kiss at the nape of her neck.
"That's my Rua."
She giggled, where the vampire purred. The moment was however disturbed with Graham's yell.
"TARA!"
"CORDELIA!"
"FAITH!"
The couple turned to find the men trying to hid their respective loves in back of them, shielding them. Angel looked at Willow, his eyes growing wide as he realized their reaction. He quickly did the same, shielding Willow not only from other's eyes but his own. It was at that moment that the happy newlyweds came out looking for their friends.
"Where have you all been?"
"Just. admiring the night sky.." Xander quickly replied.
"Faith, what are you doing in back of him?"
"Adjusting my dress."
"Cordelia?"
"Broke a strap."
"Tara?"
"Nylons?"
"Willow?"
"My hair?" she squeaked.
"We've been waiting for all of you. What have you been doing?" Giles asked.
"We thought we had heard something out here."
"Is something wrong?" Jenna asked worried.
"No! no. false alarm. Everything's fine," Willow yelled over Angel's shoulder.
"We can go cut the cake then. We've been waiting for Angel."
"Me?" the vampire asked a bit confused.
"Yes, we know how fond of cake you are," the beautiful bride reminded him.
"I don't." the swift hit in his lower back was enough for him to agree. "Love it. Thanks for waiting."
"Then we should go in," Giles suggested.
"We'll be right in," Cordelia replied sweetly.
They entered without a problem, the rest of the couples breathing a sigh of relief.
"Can someone tell me why you look naked?" Xander asked referring to all the women.
"The dweep pervert casted a spell for our clothes to become see thru. Seems Giles nephew has the hots for Willow. The idiot thought he had casted it where only he could see Willow, but didn't turn out that way," Cordy replied.
Angel growled, wanting to know the name of the guy and where he would be located so he could teach him a lesson. No one got away from trying to do something to his woman.
"But Tara kicked some ass," Cordy added.
Graham turned around, his eyes focused on hers, wondering what she had done.
"I thought him not to mess with spells. I reversed the spell on him."
"But were still nude," Faith reminded her.
"Just give it a few minutes. Once "James" clothes turn transparent, ours will come back," Tara explained.
The group couldn't help but laugh, all worries finally sliding off their backs.
"What do we do with Buffy and the Nasar demon," Riley asked.
"Put them together for now under the tree. I'll place a protection spell for now. We can come back for them later," Tara suggested.
"Good, It's time to party!" Faith declared.
Each male took off their respective coats and placed them on their loves, heading back to the party. As they entered, a teenager ran out from the other end, gasps coming from the guests around. The group couldn't help but laugh, all moving to the head table where the bride and groom were seated. Everyone remained standing behind their chairs, raising their wine glasses, ready to toast the newlyweds.
"Trials and tribulations test us everyday, test our endurance, our commitment and our love. We're tested everyday, and we ourselves can create our own heaven and our own hell. Rupert and Jenna have gone through so much and in the end they have managed to find their own piece of heaven, each other," Angel began.
"It's a pleasant thing to say, that our parents are finally married," Willow continued on, blinking back tears. "Because you both are our parents, our mom and our dad. No one has every loved us, or cared for us as the both of you have. In a span of six years, you've not only managed to adopt one, but six children, that adore, admirer and love you as our parents."
"That's why this day is so special for us too, and we thank you for letting us be part of it," Xander added with a smile.
"We wish you all the best, and hope we can continue being part of your family," Faith's slightly broken voice said.
"To two of the greatest people in the world," Cordy concluded.
Jenna was already crying as Giles was trying to keep them at bay. The couple stood up and hugged each one, thanking them for such beautiful words as the invited guests applauded.
It was a wonderful night.
~Part: 12~ Fly Me to the Moon
"My feet hurt," Faith complained as she leaned deeper into Xander's embrace on the floor.
She pulled off her tight and uncomfortable pastel silver shoes, throwing them as far as possible. The other three women followed suit resulting shoes to be scattered about the dance floor. The reception had ended about an hour ago, but people had still lingered about for another thirty minutes, until it was just the small group of friends and the band left. The tent had long ago been taken down, everyone wanting to dance under the moon and stars. There was not a cloud in the sky, the breeze staying rather warm.
The band had taken a break, Cordelia refusing to let them leave early. As she had argued, they had been contracted for seven hours and seven hours they would play, even it was just for her. The rest of the group had not objected, enjoying their request of songs being played.
"Look at that moon," Willow marveled. " It's so bright."
Angel looked at his beloved, loving the way the moon reflected it's light upon her. She looked far beyond beautiful, ethereal really.
Riley pulled off his bow tie, tossing it to the side where the other men had discarded their jackets and ties already. He hugged Cordy closer to him, loving these moments with her.
"I bet you can even see the planets," Faith wondered a loud.
"Well, if you look to the far right of the moon, you can see Mars."
They all strained their sight, wondering if they could.
"They both looked so happy," Willow commented as she shifted lightly in the vampire's arms, placing a kiss on his lips.
"Giles was pretty anxious to leave," Riley remembered.
"I think so was Jenny."
The group chuckled as they remembered how quickly Jenny and Giles were trying to leave once the cake was cut. Jenna had thrown her bouquet as she was running down the path to the awaiting car.
"Well it looks as though Willow's next," Xander teased.
The redhead blushed, burying her head in Angel's shirt.
"It looks like it," Angel agreed with a large smile on his face.
"Will it be a double wedding with Riley then?" Faith asked.
Cordy pulled on the white garter that was on his forearm, snapping it against him.
"Maybe," he replied as he looked into his girlfriend's lovely brown eyes.
"One whole week without Giles at the University. This should be interesting," Xander commented.
"Where did Tara and Graham go?" Willow asked, wondering what had happened to the couple.
"Something about some alone time," Riley replied with a smile. The males smiled, prompting the women to punch them in the arm.
Angel whispered something in Willow's ear, the redhead nodding enthusiastically. As if on cue the musicians returned, setting up for their last set. The handsome vampire left his redhead and went to speak to the lead vocalist. The two couples looked on as Angel, ever so chivalrously asked Willow for a dance.
He placed a kiss on her hand, pulling her to him, his arms holding her close to him. The soft jazzy beat was contagious as Xander pulled Faith with him on the dance floor, Cordelia and Riley joining them.
Fly me to the moon
Let me play among the stars
Let me see what spring is like
On a-Jupiter and MarsIn other words, hold
my hand
In other words, baby, kiss me
Willow giggled as Angel turned her rather quickly, swooning her a moment later and placing a kiss on her lips.
Fill my heart with song
And let me sing forever more
You are all I long for
All I worship and adore
In other words, please be true
In other words, I love you
Riley and Cordy elected a much more subtle approach to the dance, swaying lightly from side to side, holding each other tightly, smooching lightly.
Xander and Faith on the other hand weren't sure what they were doing and were just flowing with the music, Xander exaggerating each move to Faith's delight.
Fill my heart with song
Let me sing forever more
You are all I long for
All I worship and adore
In other words, please be true
In other words, in other words
I love you
And they danced for the rest of the night, under the moon and stars, with smiles and laughter.
It had been a good day.
It had been a day without rain.
Fin