"Red, Red.  Wake up, sweet," Spike gently said, coaxing her from her sensual haze.  He wiped the sweat-drenched locks of fire out of her face.

Willow's eyes, gradually fluttered open, gracing Spike with a confused gaze.  She was still panting softly trying to relearn how to breathe normally.  "Spike?"  she asked softly.  Her features gradually softened into a smile.  "You saved me.  Angelus was just about to give me another hickey,"  the hacker quipped wryly.  "Thank you," she said, in grateful tones.  Willow threw her arms around the hard muscles of his back,  tucking her head in the crook of his neck.

"Well, then it's a good thing I was here to help this time," Spike agreed.  "Are you alright, love?" He murmured into her hair.

"I'm fine.  Or at least I will be when we can get rid of him," she said.  Willow looked around at the scattered books and notes.  "I can't believe I fell asleep studying.  I think I could really use a vacation."

Spike waggled his eyebrows at her.  "Speaking of holiday. You're going on one, Red."

Willow supplied him with a questioning glance.  "Oh, I am, huh? Where am I supposed to be going?  Hawaii, skiing in the Alps, Rome?"

"Nothing that exotic, but it's a surprise.  We'll chat more after your exam.  So, go shower or do whatever it is that you females do to get dolled up, we'll have some breakfast, cram for your final, then I'll walk you to school," he said, his tone broking no argument.

Willow stood up, then leaned over to impulsively kiss him on his well-chiseled cheek.  "Thank you, for everything, Spike," She smiled and scrambled upstairs to her toilette, leaving Spike to putter about in the kitchen.
 

Later that day

After completing her Biology  exam more than an hour earlier than the allotted time, Willow strolled through the sun-dappled grass of the quad in the direction of her dorm.  A small confident smile lit her face as she thought <Nailed that exam, my 4.0 G.P.A. is in the bag!>  She entered the residence hall and climbed the flight of steps leading to the room she and Buffy shared.  As she opened her door and scanned the room, she noticed the drawn rice paper blinds, saying, "Spike, I know you're in here.  Did you pack my skis while you were waiting?" she inquired in a teasing voice.

From the closet came the sound of a small crash, then a curse.  Spike stumbled out of the wooden door, tripping over a pair of skis, his platinum head partially covered in one of Buffy's stringy pastel halter-tops.  Willow grinned as he attempted to disentangle himself from the slayer's offending flimsy garment. He turned, setting the skis to rights.

"No, Red.  I didn't pack your skis, but they attacked me while I was in there hiding out," he said, gesturing to the equipment.  "When I heard your key hit the lock an hour early, I thought for a moment that it was Buffy coming.  And we know what kind of conclusions she would've drawn had she caught me lounging on one of the beds catching `The Price is Right'," he turned back to her, extending clawed hands to her, making mocking `grrr' noises.

Willow howled in laughter, Spike grinned.  Then she recalled that others in the dorm were studying and probably wouldn't appreciate the ruckus.  The redhead clamped a hand over her mouth and got her mirth under control.

"How did it go," Spike asked referring to her exam.

"Let's just say that my class standing is in no jeopardy. I'm pretty sure I aced it," she said confidently.

"Oh.  Well, that's good.  I thought that with your coming back so soon, there might have been a problem.  I stand corrected and congratulations," he said.

Turning to more serious matters, Spike sat down on the bed. "Okay, Red.  Time to pack.  Incidentally, pack for warm California weather.  It turns out that I don't have to spring for an all expenses paid trip to Hawaii for you.

"Is that right," Willow inquired, raising a suspicious eyebrow.  "You planning on having me hole up in your crypt all summer while you extol the benefits of watching `Passions' everyday?"  She got down on her knees in front of Spike, reaching under the coverlet for her travelling bags.

Spike snorted.  "Nothing so pedestrian.  But it is a good show. You're needed in LA  Angel and the gang needs your help with setting up and streamlining their new computers.  Angel said that he'd be more than willing to hire you on for the summer as their consultant.  They could probably use your expertise in gathering intelligence and working spells, too,"  Spike answered.

Willow, who'd only been half listening as she rummaged underneath her bed, ceased all activity at the mention of Angel's name.  Her reaction was violent as she lifted her head, promptly banging it into the metal frame of the bed.

"Oww!", she grimaced, cursing her clumsiness.  Extracting the last of her bags from the bed, she turned, rubbing her head, frowning intensely at Spike.  She deposited the bags back on the floor, taking a seat on the bed next to him.  Willow opened her mouth, ready to spew all kinds of remonstrations.   "Spike! You didn't-"

Assuming a cherubic face, holding up his hands, Spike in his most convincing tones said, "I didn't mention a word of it, Red. Cross my heart.  Angel called here looking for you while you were out and I picked up the phone.  Since I'm one of the few people in our circle who actually owns wheels, I guess he thought it'd be okay to fill me in.  I told him that you'd probably jump at a chance to get away for a while, so I said `yes' for you.  When we spoke, we thought
it'd be best if Giles at least knew where you were going.  You can leave notes for anyone else."

Willow felt as if she were on the edge of hyperventilating. <Ohmidgoddess!  A summer with Angel?  I wonder if I can actually do it.   Just keep reminding yourself Rosenberg, he belongs to Buffy!>

Spike deciphered her dazed and confused look and continued to try convincing her that it was the best way.  "It's gonna be alright.  You probably won't have time to get all dewy-eyed over the Poof, while you're fighting those demons.  You'll have Cordelia to keep you distracted; shopping and clubbing your way through all your hard-earned dough.  There'll be plenty of room-"

"Uh, Spike," Willow interrupted.  "Angel's place only has one bedroom," she squeaked out.  "Where am I supposed to sleep?"

"Haven't you been reading your e-mail lately?  The old offices and Angel's place were blown to bits in some grudge match between Angel and some demonically corrupt law firm.  Angel's relocated to more spacious digs.  He bought and remodeled an entire hotel, so you'll have plenty of space."

"Oh.  Well, that's a much safer option.  I think.  D'you think Cordelia's staying there, too?  If she's not, maybe she'd change her mind to keep me company, for modesty's sake."  Willow colored slightly.

Spike waggled his eyebrows teasingly.  "Afraid your hormones'll get the better of you and you end up jumpin' his bones, pet?" he asked.

She lightly punched him in his well-muscled arm.  "No!  I just don't want to have to answer any odd questions when I get back to Sunnydale.  And you know that there are always  questions."

"Well, I'm sure Angel will understand when you tell him that you're not going to come.  You know, he could have found any computer techie in LA to set him up, but he chose you because you're his friend, he trusts you and he cares.  He doesn't ask for favors often."

Willow shoulders slumped in defeat.  "I guess you're right, Spike.  Helping Angel, Cordy and Wesley might be the best thing for me.  I do need to get away," she said the last brightening a bit.

Spike gave her a playful shove.  "It won't be that bad. You'll have a good time and maybe those dreams of yours will stop altogether with you being away from the Hellmouth.  Now, get packed and write your good-bye letters.  We should get on the road before too long."

"Way ahead of you, Spike.  I wrote notes right after I finished my exam.  It shouldn't take me too long to pack," she said getting up and moving to rummage through her drawers and closet.
 

Part Seven

It took the redhead a lot longer to pack than usual.  Then she insisted upon wearing just the right travelling outfit.  So, she and Spike got on the road later than intended.  Then, they needed to stop for gas for the car and snacks for Willow to munch on for the duration of the trip.  The two actually got on the road during the mid afternoon hours, but hit traffic most of the way to LA.   The vampire and the witch kept themselves entertained swapping stories and singing along to the Ramones and Sinatra CD's Spike had tucked into the glove box.  Then, they were caught in Friday afternoon rush hour traffic.  They managed to arrive at Angel Investigations with the setting of the sun.

Spike and Willow divested his trunk of Willow's bags and equipment.  As they walked up the walkway to the defunct Hyperion Hotel, they paused a moment to admire the structure.

"Big isn't it?"  Spike quipped.

"Yeah.  More so than the mansion, I'd gather.  I guess we won't have to worry too much about walking on top of one another.  I could probably go days without laying eyes on Angel, as big as this place is," she agreed, feeling more relieved about her decision to come stay.

Reaching the entrance, Spike set down one her overstuffed suitcases to open a door.  The double doors swung open before Spike could reach them.  Angel stood in the doorway, flanked by Cordelia.  Angel's  eyes immediately sought out the witch. <God, she's even more beautiful than I'd remembered!  But judging by the dark circles under her eyes, my demon has been keeping her busy. >

Angel couldn't resist reaching out to enfold her in his embrace. Willow, all but crushed, was reveling in the feel of what she assumed was friendly affection.  <He's been working out! I could die happily right here in his arms.>  Willow could detect a hint of earthy spice clinging to his dark silky top.

At the same time, the redhead assailed Angel's acute senses. She smelled of strawberries and clotted cream, and something else…<I see she still hasn't given up on her love of pork rinds and Doritos yet.  That's my girl!> Angel smiled slightly as he unconsciously rubbed his cheek against the top of her head.  He caressed her fiery mane hair back into place, and resumed his hold on her.

Willow's heart felt like it had leapt into her throat.  "Hiya, Angel. Need to breathe now," she croaked, then attempted a weak smile as he immediately loosened his hold on her.  She used her leverage to break free of the embrace, which was causing all kinds of emotions to bubble to the surface  "Spike tells me you've got a new system that needs setting up?"  She craned her neck, aiming her greeting somewhere near the middle of his chest.  She hadn't the fortitude to look any higher.

"Willow.  Welcome.  Thanks for coming,"  he said softly.  "Spike," he greeted, never taking gaze from the redhead, who'd already darted nervously behind Spike to retrieve the forgotten bag.

Spike watched the exchange with barely concealed amusement. <Be careful about using me for your shield, love.  He is my sire.  I may just let Peaches have you. >

Cordelia, picked up on the vibes, but wisely held her tongue. She decided to help rescue Willow from her boss' intense scrutiny. "Willow!" she said brightly.  "It's good to see you. Come in, I'll help you get settled and show you around the new place."

Willow, flashing Cordy a grateful smile said, "Hi, Cordy,".  She gathered the bags she had, ducked deftly under Angel's outstretched arm and rushed to the brunette's side.  As they hugged and exchanged greetings, Willow whispered, "Thank you," into her ear.

Cordelia winked knowingly and took hold of her hand to lend her friend some support.

"Angel, Gunn's still out back and I'm going to go introduce them, then get her settled upstairs." Cordelia said in non-negotiable tones.

Angel, having moved away from the doors, unconsciously tracked Willow's every move.  Realizing what he was doing, he forced himself to try and act more normally.  "Yeah, sure.  That's fine.  Meet us back down here?"

Cordelia rolled her eyes.  "Whatever, Angel."  Turning her attention back to Willow, she grabbed her hand saying, "C'mon, let's get out of here.  I'll show you around the hotel."

The two young women disappeared near the back of the lobby heading in search of Gunn.

"Ah, hello.  Earth to sire?  Come in," Spike teased Angel. "You're gonna scare the poor girl to death if you keep looking at her like you want to devour her.  Remember, you're NOT supposed to know what's going on, so let's keep up appearances, here.  Now, grab a bag like a good boy and help me tote the rest of this gear in."

Angel cast a guilty glance at Spike.  He took a deep unneeded breath and blew out, reaching for a bag.  "You're right.  It's just been so long since I've seen her.  And I feel partly to blame for what Willow's going through."  He grunted, idly wondering what it was that Willow kept in these bags that weighed so much.

"It's a nice set up you have here, Angel,"  Spike said, looking around in grudging admiration.  He stepped down into the plush lobby. "You seem to be doing well." He and his former compatriot set the baggage down at the base of the stairs.

Angel led the way to an alcove in the lobby to an lounge area littered with overstuffed, yet understated furniture.  Spike took a proffered seat in one of the hunter-green and cream striped sofas.  Angel answered with a trace of wary amusement, "It's a living.  We've had a couple well-heeled clients who
demonstrated their appreciation for our work by dumping money on us. I would have sent  back the money, but Cordelia would always beat me to the bank. Drink?" He inquired

"Scotch.  If you have it," the blond answered, leaning into the sofa, spreading his arms behind him.

Angel moved in measured strides towards an antique bar area set off in a corner.  He fixed two scotches straight up, then set them on a glass table set in between the two facing sofas. Angel sat opposite his childe and reached for his drink glancing his way.  "So, how is she, really?"

"She's trying to hold it together on the outside.  On the inside, I suspect she's coming undone.  As I recall, it's a fine line between pleasure and pain where your fine torments where concerned.  At least it was in the old days.  I'm surprised that she hasn't figured out that it was some of the after-effects of that spell she did.  She always struck me as sharper than that. Perhaps, she's always had a thing for your demon side," Spike concluded, taking a gulp of his single-malt.

"Spike," Angel said in warning tones.  "Willow is NOT like that."

"I'll be a bleeding bugger if she isn't," leaning forward in disagreement.  Spike surreptitiously looked around, then lowered his voice.  "When she's caught up in whatever thrall Angelus has her in, she's uninhibited.  I've never seen that girl so sensual in her response.  It's clearly a side of herself she's not even aware that exists.  Her flesh is heated to a rosy blush, and the smell of her arousal's like being in the presence of a fine perfume.  I don't know about you, mate, but nobody gets that worked up in dreams unless there's some underlying truth to it in real-life."

Angel tried to mask his features so that no play of emotions would flicker across, handing Spike any more clues.  His eyes were a mystery as he asked, "Then why does Willow act as though she can't stand to be around me?"  he dark vampire couldn't keep the emotion out of his voice.

< Ah, so that's how it is between them!  I always suspected, but now I've got some confirmation on the other end.  At least I know now that the Slayer's as good as mine!>   Spike thought, rubbing his hands together mentally.  He couldn't hide the gleam his eyes took on from his sire.

"What? You look like you're cooking up some scheme.  Out with it." Angel demanded.

"Relax, daddy.  It's just that some of the puzzles pieces have sorted themselves out in my head," he grinned, teasing Angel.

"Spike." Angel warned.

Spike rolled his eyes, huffed and leaned forward with a conspirital air. "Alright, then.  I guess it's time for a few truths. Only stop me if I'm wrong.  The reason you left Sunny-D had nothing to do with the Slayer.  But it had everything to do with our little resident witch.  You couldn't claim her without fighting a
battle royale with the other Scoobies, not to mention the slayer or your demon, if you'd managed to get to home base, so to speak. And Red wouldn't dream of betraying her girlfriend to be with you, what with all of the history.  So, now that she so happens to have need of you, you all but threaten to kill anyone who comes between you getting some face time with our Willow."

Angel held up his hand for silence, the veins of his face straining under his skin. "Spike-," he entreated.

Spike cut him off.  "I said, only interrupt me when I was wrong. May I continue?" the fair vampire questioned in a somewhat testy tone.

Angel sighed and waved him on.

"Now then.  Our smart little Velma then summons the cojones to come up with a spell to keep you in Peaches form on a permanent basis, letting loose Angelus in the nocturnal realm. Why would she do something like that?  Not because she wants you and the slayer to kiss and make up, but because you're her friend, at least in her perception.  The slayer's been keeping time with some army guy who's fellow goons are responsible for the cuddly Spike you see before you today. What is quite obvious to the casual observer, is that she not only did it for you because she's your friend, but because she's in love with you.  That's why she never told anyone; that's why folks like Giles and you are just now finding out.  That's why wolf-boy left her.  That's why the witchy girlfriend and Red are no longer swapping spells.  That's why the slayer is being kept out of the loop.  She's unconsciously done something so extreme that I don't think she realizes the real reason why she did it.  I do know this:  if you confront her with it, she'll clam up and admit to nothing.  Her damnable sense of goodness and fairplay won't let her acknowledge such a thing," Spike paused, leaning back into the cushions of the sofa, then delivered his coup d'etat  "If you want her, you've got to seduce her.  She won't come to you.  She'll never come to you. Willow doesn't think she's worthy enough to approach you on
that level.  In a lot of ways, she still pictures herself playing the part of the mousy best friend."

Angel shook his head wondering to himself, < I can't believe this!  Could it be?  Could Willow really have feelings for me?  It has to be true.  What would Spike gain by lying, and he also has a genuine affection for her, chip or no chip> Angel cut his eyes to Spike, "If what you say is true, fine.  I'll deal with it, somehow.  I won't allow Willow to be hurt.  In the meantime, we've got to come up with a way to stop the demon from hurting her, then get him out of her dreams.

"Aren't you, Giles and the LA squad working diligently on that already?"  Spike inquired.

"Yeah, but-," Angel was interrupted by the insistent ringing of the office phone.

Spike and Angel surveyed each other over the glass coffee table. "You want me to pick that up for you?" Spike suggested.

Echoing through the corridors of the hotel, Gunn shouted, "Yo, Angel. You want to get that, man?"

Angel sighed getting up and fluidly moved over toward the front desk.  "Angel Investigations?", he growled into the phone.

"Angel?  Oh, thank goodness I've reached you first.  It's Giles," the ex-Watcher informed the vampire.

"I was going to call you later.  What's going on?  Tell me you've found something because we haven't come up with squat on our end," the vampire inquired sounding a tad frantic.

"Tara and I were able to find out a way to help Willow.  I'd hate to explain this over the phone.  It seems rather gauche and it's quite a sensitive subject.  Why don't I come out there?" Giles suggested.

Angel smiled thinly.  <I can almost picture him removing his spectacles and rubbing his forehead right about now.>   "Giles unless we were to meet in trench coats at the local diner, I doubt I could pull that off.  Besides, Willow's already here and you're needed in Sunnydale," Angel contradicted gently.

"Yes, you're quite right," Giles acquiesced, nodding. "Well, it seems that in order to break the spell you can do one of two things.  You can either destroy the individual the spell was intended to help or, um, I don't quite know how to say this," Giles broke off shying away from the rest of the news he had.

Angel, who was ready to go find a stake in order to help Willow paused in his search as he realized Giles held an alternative. "What Giles, it can't be worse than killing myself.  Which I'm quite prepared to do in order to get Willow out of this mess," Angel prompted.

Giles blew out an explosive breath and revealed what he was nervously holding back. "Angel, you have to sleep with Willow. That is, in the carnal sense of the word."
 

Part Eight

…Giles blew out an explosive breath, removing his spectacles and rubbed his forehead. He revealed what he was nervously holding back. "Angel, you have to sleep with Willow. That is, in the carnal sense of the word." He clarified. Then he rushed on, "I'm sorry, Angel, but those are the only two options open to you."

Angel's chocolatey orbs widened considerably as he swallowed this piece of information. < Whoa! That's definitely a better alternative than greeting the rising sun.> To Giles, he responded with a vague, "I see."

Giles continued on into the phone. "I can't believe I'm condoning this, but I think that the latter solution is best all-round. According to the rites of the spell, if this particular aspect of the ritual is not completed within the space of two moon risings, whatever was intended to be bound will be let loose and the
spellcaster will become its slave."

Spike, with his super-sensitized hearing, picked up on the gist of the conversation. < I don't believe it! Angel and Red are going to have it off, are they? Wish I could be around to witness this strange courtship.> Bug-eyed, he sprung up from the sofa, grabbed the two tumblers and headed in the direction of that scotch. He hurried over to his sire and handed him a drink.

Angel looked at his childe, his eyes filled with gratitude and trepidation for the task which lay before him. He gulped down his drink before addressing Giles again. "Thanks for the information, Giles. I'll keep you posted on what's going on. I won't fail Willow," he vowed, clenching the snifter in his free hand.

Giles, however would not be put off. He cleared his throat. "Angel, Willow's fragile right now and you know that she's like one of my own. Be careful in, um, handling her, will you? Also, you should know that as long as she's physically around you, she shouldn't be plagued as much by Angelus. However, the closer she gets towards the second moon, the more influence Angelus will exert; and her will to resist him will weaken considerably. What I'm trying to say is, the sooner you complete the ritual, the less power the demon will have in her dreams."

Angel, barely believing his good fortune, but at the same time bleeding inside for what Willow had been through so far, smiled grimly and rang off with Giles.

Spike broke the ominous silence and drawled out, "Well, well. It seems as though we've got our work cut out for us, doesn't it?"

The elder vampire shook his head in the affirmative, a wan smile on his lips. He soon remembered he was not alone and resumed staring daggers at Spike.

"I've a mind to stick around this place to see how this whole sordid drama plays out, but I've got bigger fish to fry," Spike chuckled.

Angel ran a frustrated hand through his spiky dark locks. He changed the subject. "Why don't we take these up to Willow's room. Wesley should be back here with dinner soon."

They trudged up the next flight to deliver Willow's belongings to her appointed room.

A few minutes later, Spike and Angel returned downstairs at the same time Willow and Cordelia re-emerged, with a grease spattered Gunn in tow.

Gunn addressed the big vampire. "Angel, your tranny is shot, man. I'm gonna put in an order for the parts tomorrow if they don't have them in stock at the parts place."

Angel stomped forward nearly growling at Gunn. Gunn took a step back, got into a mock fighting stance and defended himself verbally, "Hey. Don't get all fangy with me, man. I wasn't the one who ran over that damned Grougha demon," referring to a particularly nasty emissary from the netherworld who's specialty had been making jewelry out of children's entrails.

The vampire threw Cordelia a menacing glance. "Angel! If I hadn't run him over, Grougha would've had you and that poor kid for bracelets," the brunette reasoned.

Gunn, seeing his chance muttered something about getting cleaned up before the food came and wisely vacated the general area.

Angel bit off a retort as Wesley swept into the offices balancing bags in his arms. "Dinner has arrived," the dark-haired rogue watcher called in a sing-songy lilt, narrowly avoiding a calamitous trip down the stairs.

Spike took in the entire scene with barely concealed amusement. "Some kind of place you're running, dad," he said in teasing tones.

"Don't you start," he warned.

Willow and Cordelia went to relieve Wesley of his bags. "Willow. I'm happy to see you. I heard you'll be staying awhile to help us battle some demons and set up, as Mr. Giles so eloquently puts it, `those confounded machines'," he beamed at her through his food fogged spectacles. They embraced awkwardly between the purchases.

"Hey, Wesley. It's good to see you to," Willow agreed, following Cordy to the lounge area. The girls began sitting food and plates on the tables as Wesley addressed Angel and Spike in conspirital tones.

"Guys, there's some warm blood fresh from the butcher in this bag," he said under his breath, handing it to Angel. He swept past them towards the human food.

Angel gestured Spike into another alcove, which housed a small kitchen area and served the blood in oversized coffee mugs. Spike took his and settled on a couch beside Willow. Angel preferring to eat incognito, hurriedly consumed his nutrition and rejoined the group in the lounge.

With a grimace, he noticed that Gunn settled on the other side of Willow. He sighed and took a seat on the opposite couch with Cordy and Wesley.

Sniffed a carton of food, smiled and directed her eyes heavenward. "Ooh, sweet and sour chicken. One of my favorites!" Turning to Cordelia, she said, "I didn't think you remembered."

Unthinkingly, Cordelia responded around a mouthful of egg roll, "I didn't, Angel did."

Willow's gaze swung towards Angel. "Thank you, Angel," she murmured demurely, gracing him with a grateful smile.

Angel's hooded gaze had never left her face. He grunted, "Sure. All those late-night research sessions at the library. How could I have forgotten?" <You'd be surprised how much I do remember about you, little one.>
 

Part Nine

The group spent the remainder of dinner catching up, telling tales and getting to know one another.  At points, they had to tiptoe around certain subjects like Buffy, Oz and when Angelus got loose, but generally hit the high points of the past several years.  Wesley was the first to get up.  As he began gathering plates, he commented, "I'm going to take this stuff out to the garbage before it starts to stink up the place."

"I'll help.  I need to get outside.  I haven't had a smoke in ages," Spike groused coming to his feet.

Angel barely registered their exchange.  He only had eyes for Willow.  Finally buckling under his scrutiny, Willow smiled hesitantly asking,  "What, Angel?  Do I have duck sauce on my face?", the petite redhead reached for a napkin, dabbing around her mouth.

"Uh, no.  Sorry, it's just been so long since I've seen you," Angel said covering his brazen assessment of the girl.  "Why don't Cordy and I show you to your room?", he said standing up.

She smothered a yawn, then smiled, "Okay.  Lead me to it.  I didn't realize just how tired I was with everything that's been going on lately."

As the three moved over towards the staircase, Gunn removed himself from the couch and got ready to leave.  "I'm gonna take off, guys.  I want to make one last sweep of the neighborhood, then I'm all over a shower and my bed.  I'll see you sometime tomorrow. Willow, it's nice to have finally met you.  If you stick around long enough, I'll have to give you a nickname," he ambled over to her and gave her a tentative hug.  "See y'all," he said departing through the
hotel's double doors.

When Gunn disappeared, Willow gave Cordelia and Angel a confused look.  "Why would I need a nickname?  I thought I already had a couple…or at least Spike has nicknames for me,"  grimacing as she hefted her laptop trudging up the stairs beside the two.

Cordelia shrugged her shoulders, "Relax, Willow.  I think it's just his way to show an affiliation or affection.  He likes you and is comfortable with you.  Let's just hope you end up with something marginally better than his names for me," she snorted.

"And they would be?" Willow asked.

"Mostly, princess or spoiled brat, something to that effect."

Angel gave them a small smile.  "At least you know he likes you, Cordy."

Cordelia screwed up her face.  "And this from the guy who gets dubbed `Batman'?  Your name's cool, albeit, kind of a slap in the face."

As they cleared the second floor, Angel led them around a corner.  The carpeted hallway runner muffling the trio's footsteps.

Angel paused in front of a door.  He turned to Willow looked solemnly into her eyes, handed her a key and said, "Here you go.  I hope you like it."

Curious, she said, "What's this all about?" as she turned the lock opening the door.

What greeted her was a huge, well-appointed room.  The walls were decorated in hues of palest peach and cream silks, a California king sized bed covered in peach silk was turned down to reveal cream-colored satin sheets.  The entire bed was encased by filmy drapery, embroidered with tiny constellations.  On either side of the bed sat cedar nighttables, which held the customary lamps, phone and alarm clock.  The floor was done in creamy plush carpeting.  A fireplace blazing cheerily dominated the middle of  wall.  The far wall was taken up by triple windows, which also held a plush window seat. Surrounding the window seats sat lounge furniture, a miniature set of where they'd shared dinner.  To the right of the door was a cedar computer desk complete with file drawers and a commanding swivel-backed leather chair.

Willow's jaw hung open in a stupor.

"Please tell me that we don't have to haul all this stuff back to the store.  I picked out most of this stuff, Willow!", Cordelia pleaded half-jokingly.  The brunette knew she and Angel had done an excellent job of decorating her room.

Immediately, the redhead turned to protest.  "No, no!  It's wonderful.  It's just too much!  You guys went to so much trouble."

Angel told hold of her hand.  "We had fun doing it.  It gave us something to do besides kill demons, or having me sit in the office brooding all day long," he firmly assured her.  "Besides, it's the least we could do. Especially since you've agreed to come out and help us out on such short notice."

Cordelia offered, "Well, if you feel so badly about it, you can pay me back by going shopping with me tomorrow.  It'll be an all-day thing, so wear comfortable footwear."

In no mood to deny Cordy anything at that point, Willow quickly agreed.  "Okay, sure Cordy."

Willow flushed, becoming increasingly aware of the fact that Angel had no intention of relinquishing her hand anytime soon. Spotting a door adjacent to the entrance, she pointed, using her free hand.  "What's behind there?"

"The bathroom.  We had that done, too." He said gesturing toward it.  Willow and Cordy stepped inside and crossed the room to open the door.  The bath was half a big as the guest-room.  In one corner, stood a glass encased shower stall complete with benches. Dual white porcelain sinks and huge mirror took up one wall.  The middle of the floor was what grabbed Willow's attention, as she almost stumbled into the sunken bathtub.  It was so huge, Willow thought she could surely swim in it.  <I could scrub a horse in this thing.  Hopefully, I won't drown in it.>  "I don't know what to say, guys.  Thanks.  I just fell in love.  I've always wanted a sunken bathtub!"  She turned and hugged both of them.

Releasing them, she turned back to the tub, stopping the drain and adjusting the valves.  Dreamily, she said, "I'll see you guys tomorrow…" she started removing her clothing.

Cordelia nodded understandingly.  "See you, Will. Goodnight."  The brunette turned to walk out.  Angel stood transfixed, watching Willow.  Cordy turned, smacked his arm and hustled him out of the bathroom.  Locking, then closing the door behind them, she said, "Jeez, Angel, Peeping Tom much?"

Angel shrugged, closing the main door behind him.  Sighing, he made his way toward the stairs.  Ushering Cordelia to lead the way.  She paused and pointed resolutely.  "Uh-uh.  You first.  I want to make sure you stay in my sights for the next hour or so.  Or at least until you clear the cobwebs out of that ancient head of yours."

The dark pair made their way back to the lounge area and took seats with Spike and Wesley.
 

Part Ten

"Listen, guys", Angel said, addressing Cordelia and Wesley, "I got a call from Giles and he said that there are two options to halting the progression of Willow's dreams".

Wesley picked up a notepad and adjusted his frames,  "Well, then.  Let's get to work.  Are there any ingredients we should gather
from the local majic shops?"

Angel cleared his throat and answered, "No, Wesley.  This isn't something that's going to require us to cast a counter spell." He fidgeted in his seat uncomfortably.

Cordelia sat closer, sensing that the cure wasn't as cut and dried as she'd hoped.  "Well, Angel what's going on?  What are we supposed to do?" her voice fraught with foreboding.

Angel moved quickly to reassure her.  "Cordy.  It's not that bad.  I can either greet the sunrise, or-"

"What?!  I thought you said it wasn't that bad.  I mean, Jeez, Angel.  That sounds pretty extreme to me-", the brunette huffily exclaimed, gesturing wildly with her hands.

"Angel?  What's the other option?  You did say that there was something else that could be done, right?"  the ex-Watcher asked anxiously.

Angel took a moment to observe Spike, who was lighting a cigarette.  The blond looked up through the smoke.  "What?  Oh no. I'm not helping you out, here.  This is your show, Dad," he said.

"Thanks", he smirked at his childe.  Then he addressed the group more seriously. "What has to take place is very personal between Willow and I.  I need you guys to just be a source of emotional support for her.  She's likely to be all confused and in denial about the attention I'm paying her, but just try to convince her that it's genuine.  I mean, it is, but Willow's not the type to believe that." Angel concluded his speech awkwardly.

Wesley sat forward.  "I'm a bit confused myself here.  What is it that you're saying?"

The brunette sucked in a breath, sudden understanding dawning on her face.  < Ohmigod!  They have to. Eeww!  Poor Willow! Then again, judging by all the sparks flying between them, it might not be such a bad idea…>

Taking in the silence of the Englishman and Angel's assistant, Spike assumed that they were both still in the dark. "Guys.  In order for Willow to get rid of Angelus, the Poof and Red have to have a shag-fest.  Angel just needs you to act as if his courtship is all normal and such while he goes about wooing the poor chit.  Oh, and in case you missed all the sparks earlier, he really does have mushy feelings for her," he revealed.  Spike sat back, took another drag, looking mighty pleased with himself.

Cordelia rolled her eyes dramatically.  "Thanks for the update, Spike.  But I got it the first time around.  As for the boss's attraction to Willow, well, you'd have to be blind or Willow to not have seen it.  The looks he was giving her earlier would have blistered the paint off the walls," she supplied

Meanwhile, Wesley was still trying to digest the bombs of information that had been dropped.  He worked his mouth like a fish out of water, his eyes darting back and forth from the three.  Finally, he found his voice.  "You-, she?  Willow?  How did Cordelia know?  Oh, that poor girl!  And Giles was sure that those were the only options? Because Angel, you just can't-"

"Calm down, Wes.  Take a few breaths.  Hell, take a drink", Spike suggested jovially.

Angel watched the exchange with some consternation. He wasn't aware that he'd been so obvious about where his affections lay. However, Wesley's objection to Willow's `cure' was the issue he decided to address.  "What do you mean, Wesley?  I would never harm Willow intentionally!  You think I'm not good enough for her?"  His voice grew more intense with each word.

Wesley involuntarily shrank back into the cushions, then realized what he was doing and stopped.  As he removed his glasses he said, "Look, Angel.  She's just a young girl!  You just can't- well, you just can't!  What did Giles say about this?  He can't have agreed to it."

Angel turned to Wesley, and pierced him with a look.  "Giles suggested it.  And I am in agreement with him", the vampire said in tones that broked no argument.

"Well, I guess that's it then", Cordelia tacitly agreed. "But someone's gonna have to tell Gunn what's going on.  I'll take care of that end," she offered,  "since you big, strong men can't seem to bring yourselves to have this type of conversation without a bunch of mumbling and blushing."

Spike took Cordelia's speech with great aplomb, miming applause. "You tell `em, girl."

Cordy turned her hazel gaze on Spike, pinning him with an intense look.  "You.  You're staying here tonight and tomorrow, right?" she more stated than asked.

Spike head swiveled on its base towards his sire, cocking a dark brow in askance.

As Angel made to shake his head in the negative, Cordelia stopped him.  "Nuh-uh, Angel.  Don't you think tonight's a little early to start pouncing on Willow?  I mean, she just finished her finals, which albeit, is probably the least of her worries.  If you kick Spike out tonight, I'm sleeping with Willow.  Behind a locked
door."

The dark-haired vampire acquiesced to her suggestion.  "Spike can stay.  There's a room next door to Willow's that's been recently finished."

"Good."  Cordelia stood and began gathering her things.  She made towards the double-doored entrance.  As an afterthought, she walked back towards the men.  Cordy took Wesley by his hand to help him up.  "I think I'll be taking THIS one with me," she said.

Still in his stupor, the self-proclaimed rogue demon hunter asked, "Wh- where are we going?"

"I'm giving you a ride home, Officer Hormone Patrol," she said, leading him up the steps.

Wesley, smiled wryly, "Oh, yes.  Home."  Suddenly, he appeared to snap out of his musings, turned around.  "Be careful, Angel.  I'll see you both tomorrow."

Spike gave the departing couple a toothy grin and waved.

"Goodnight," Angel said.

As the main doors closed, Angel turned to Spike and gestured up the stairs.  "C'mon, I'll show you the room."

As the two made for the staircase, the office phone trilled, breaking the silence.  Angel strode over to the phone, as Spike sat on the stairs, firing up another cigarette.

He was only on the phone for a few seconds, but his conversation was important enough to irritate him.  "Spike, I've got to go downtown for a little while.  There's an informant who has knowledge about a Choam Demon we've been tracking.  Apparently, he knows where his lair is.  The informant's about to skip town.  Do you think you could stay here and watch over Willow until I get back?"

"Sure thing.  She'll be fine with me until you return." Spike vowed.
 
 

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