The Vampire, the Witch and the Curse

Author:  Lisa

Parts: 11 - 16 (Epilogue)

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~Part: 11~

     Wesley arrived to work early.  Sleep had been impossible.  Since Willow’s tragedy, he had had a lot of sleepless nights.  Willow had been such a fine person and he wanted so much for her to wake up.  Working diligently with Mr. Giles hadn’t really accomplished anything to speak of.  Supposition was the most they had and truth be told, might ever have.  Willow’s loss affected them all, but watching Angel suffer so greatly was agonizing.  Agonizing, yet inspiring too, he admitted to himself.  Just knowing that kind of deep, abiding love was attainable, gave one hope.

     Cordelia was staring into space as Wesley approached.  She didn’t even see him standing in front of her.  “Good morning, Cordelia.”

     “Oh!  Wes.  Hi.”  Cordelia’s eyes focused as she returned from space.

     “What were you thinking about?”

     She shut her eyes.  “Willow, of course.”  Looking again at him, she said, “outfits for her and venom.”

     Wesley gave her a little smile. “You know, it helps a lot.  What I mean to say is, the night clothes you choose for Willow.  One is cheered visiting her and seeing her in pajamas with adorable pictures one day, then tasteful silk or satin ensembles the next.  It’s a great kindness to her and to us.

     Cordelia sighed, tears in her eyes.  “Thank you.  It seems so superficial, but with her just laying there day after day…well, I just want to do something for her.”

     He laid his hand on hers.  “I know.  We all feel impotent and want to help in any small way we can.  It’s very difficult.”

     She just nodded.

     “What were you thinking about the venom?”

     “Nothing new.  The same old questions.  How?  Why?”

     Wesley blew out a breath.  “Yes.  Mr. Giles and I go over this again and again and remain perplexed.  Death is the only past result we know of.  It seems to follow that the difference here is, the magical barrier the venom traveled through, or the magic within Willow changed the outcome; immortality and a coma.  It does seem likely to us that while the demon didn’t have magical properties, his venom did.  Thus its ability to reach Willow when it shouldn’t have.  We also suspect the demon dying saved her.  Maybe the venoms effects were in stages and it disappeared before the final affect killed her.  We’ve found no sources to further our research.  We’ll never stop trying.”

     “I know that.”  Cordelia smiled softly.  “Angel does too.  Speaking of Angel, he worries me.  There seems to be less of him all the time.  He’s here, but he’s not, you know?  Think he sleeps?”

     Wes shook his head, “fitfully at best, from what I can ascertain.”

*********

      While Cordelia and Wesley discussed him, Angel was, in fact sleeping.  He was dreaming of Willow holding him.  She was warm and soft against his back and smelled so sweet.  Gentle puffs of breath on his cheek, her face nestled in his neck as he lay on his side.  His darling girl was doing the most wonderful things with the hand of the arm she had around his waist.  When she cupped his sac and her fingers began to…“Ahhh, baby, oh, yeah…”  Angel came so hard he woke himself up.  Groggily enjoying the afterglow of his climax, Angel gradually became fully awake.  Realization struck.  Willow *was* snuggled against his back.  She *did* have her face buried in his neck and her arm *was* around his waist.  Granted, the hand job was just a dream.  He was a guy after all, celibate at that, with a sexy woman pressed up against him.  What do you expect?

     Angel turned around as quickly as he could without jarring Willow too much.  She made sleepy sounds of protest as he moved her.  He rolled her onto her back and took her face in his hands.  “Willow, wake up.  Are you awake?”  He kissed her mouth, her nose, her cheeks and her forehead.  No response.  He tried speaking louder, “Willow!”  She continued to sleep.  Nevertheless, she *had* moved and *had* made sounds.

     Angel scrambled out of bed to fetch Wes.  He had to hurry, not wanting to leave her alone.  Flying out the door, he was to the stairs before he realized the state of his silk drawstring pants.  The front was covered in cum.  “Shit, shit, shit.”  He ran back to the bedroom, “pants, pants, gotta change pants, hell.”  Wet dream Willow struck again.  Angel tripped all over himself struggling out of his pants. Hurriedly, he pushed them into the hamper and ran to the closet to find a fresh pair.  In his haste he caught himself in the zipper.  “Ouch, ouch, fucking ow, oh.”  Finally zipped, he ran out, tripping on a chair and ramming his shoulder on the doorframe along the way.

     One hand on his injured crotch, one hand on his sore shoulder, he limped lightning fast down to the lobby.  “Wesley!  Wes!  She moved!  Mumbled and moved!”

     Wesley and Cordelia gawked at Angel as he stood at the foot of the stairs holding himself.

     “People!  Good lord!  Did you hear me?!  Move!  Now!  Upstairs, right now.”

     Wesley hurried over to Angel, “Are you sure?”

     “Yes!  Of course, yes.”

     Cordelia was running behind them.  “Geeze, Angel, move your hand.  You look like a five year old that needs to pee!”

     “Oh.  Right.”  Angel put his hands on their arms instead and propelled them towards the room faster.

     “Eww.”  Cordelia flung his hand away.  “No touching me after stroking the giblets!”

     They arrived in the bedroom and Willow looked much the same as she always did.  Wes sat down next to her on the bed and took her pulse.  Angel and Cordelia just watched, wringing their hands.

     Wesley glanced over at them.  “Her pulse is faster than usual.  Not a lot, but it usually never varies.”  He got a penlight out of the nightstand and lifted her eyelids, shining the light in each eye.

     Cordelia grasped Angel’s arm.  “Oh, oh, oh.  Please, Willow.  Please, wake up.”

     “Her pupils are the same.  No change.”  Wes put the penlight away.  “Angel, are you certain you weren’t dreaming?”

     He nodded.  “I’m sure.  Sure, I’m sure.  I mean, I was dreaming that…”  He fidgeted, “that’s not relevant.  She did move and mumble.”  Angel sounded a tad hysterical.

     “Okay, Angel, okay.”  Wesley took off his glasses and began pacing as he thought.  “Could you have moved her in your sleep?”

     Angel looked panicked for a second and thought about Wesley’s question.  “No.  No, I was on my side facing away from her and she was snuggled against my back, face buried in my neck, arm around my waist.”   With relief he continued, “the angle was all wrong for me to have moved her.  I’m telling you, she moved herself.  Besides, her pulse is up!  Right?  So doesn’t that prove something?”

     Wesley stopped pacing and put his glasses back on.  “Not necessarily,” clearly he was thinking hard.

     Cordelia was patting Angel’s arm comfortingly, as they both waited for Wes to continue.

     “Comas are…well, we don’t know what goes on in her head.  Maybe she had a dream.”

     Angel looked despondent.  Cordelia left his side to go sit next to Willow on the bed.  She tenderly smoothed her hair and her Hello Kitty pajamas.

     Wesley and Angel watched as Cordelia focused on Willow.  She took Willow’s hand in both of hers and held it.  “Willow, please wake up.  Just now, downstairs, Angel was holding himself.  He’s losing it, I think, without you.  Do you want him to turn into  one of those pervs who’s always touching themselves?”

     All three started in amazement as Willow, while still asleep gave a small…chuckle or snort or something.

     “Oh!”

     “Willow?”

     Angel moved to the bed and climbed in next to Willow, taking the hand that Cordelia wasn’t already holding.  “Sweetheart, are you awake?”  He covered her hand in kisses.

     There was no further reaction from the sleeping girl.  Angel looked back and forth between the other two.  “You saw it!”

     Wesley was simultaneously smiling and opening and closing his mouth.  Once he found his voice, he spoke.  “Yes!  This is significant.  I must call Mr. Giles at once.”  Wesley moved towards the door.

     “Wait!”  Angel looked at him.  “Can’t we wait?  Just awhile?”

     Cordelia leaned over Willow and put her hand on Angel’s shoulder.  “Angel,” she said softly.

     He looked at her and nodded.  “You’re right.  Of course, you’re right.”  Turning back to Wes he said, “Go ahead.  Make the call.”

     As Wes left the room, Cordelia said, “We understand, Angel, but…”

     Angel sighed and brought Willow’s hand to his lips as he watched her peaceful face.  “I know, I know.  Sorry.  I was just being selfish.”

     Cordelia laid Willow’s hand down gently and stood up.  “Don’t apologize.  We get it.  You want her to wake up and you want to spend time with her alone before Buffy, Xander and Giles swoop in on her.  That’s understandable.”

     Angel nodded, “Yeah.”

     “They have to drive here, so you have some time.  I’ll just leave you alone now.”

     Angel looked at her gratefully.  “Thank you, Cordy.”

     Cordelia smiled at her friend fondly and left the room, closing the door quietly behind her.

     Angel kissed Willow’s lips softly and got up.  He put a Barry Manilow cd in and hit play.  He laid down next to her, watching her face and began his vigil.  Today was different from so many others, though.  Today, as he watched her, he was filled with hope.

     “Darlin’ girl, ye’re in fer a treat.  I’m gonna tell ye all about the time Seamus Kilgallen and yours truly played hookey.  We were ten.  Ah, such wild lads, to be sure…”

~Part: 12~

Willow wanted a peanut butter milkshake badly.  She just couldn’t wake up to make her craving a reality.  Sometimes when she took an afternoon nap, she had trouble waking up.  She felt awake, but just couldn’t open her eyes.  That’s exactly how she felt right now.  Drowsiness was overtaking her.  She surrendered, hoping she’d go back to the sexy dream she had been having about Angel.  Mmmm, yep, that’s the one.  “Ohhh, that’s so good,” she purred.

     Xander squeezed her hand and told her, “I’m on it, Wills.”  Excitedly, he hurried downstairs.

     It had been a week since Willow had started showing signs of waking.  Naturally, Giles, Buffy, and Xander had rushed to L.A. upon hearing the news.  At least once a day since their arrival, she would mutter something, and then return to her previous comatose state.  Confidence remained high that she would come out the coma anytime.  She had shown such progress.

     Buffy and Giles had things to attend to in Sunnydale, so they drove back and forth frequently.  The Hellmouth had no pause button.  At the moment, they were both in Sunnydale.

     Xander bounded up to the Hyperion front desk.  “Guys!”  Angel, Cordelia and Wesley looked up from their research.  They had been looking up Sunnydale’s most recent menace in an effort to help Buffy and Giles.  “Willow wants a peanut butter shake.”

     Angel stood abruptly.

     Xander realized he’d given the vampire false hope.  “No, no, she’s not awake.  But she clearly wants one.”

     Cordelia looked at Xander skeptically.  “You’re such a chow hound!  Are you sure it’s not *you* who wants one?”

     “Hey,” Xander gave her a hurt expression.  “I’m telling you…she did that cute little whiny, begging voice she does and said ‘peanut butter milkshake’.”  Xander did his best impression of Willow’s ‘little girl pleading voice’.  Thing is, she might’ve got one…I mean, in her dream or whatever.  The next thing she said was, ‘Ohhh, that’s so good’ in a really ‘boy, that’s yummy’ way.”

     Angel raised his eyebrows and suddenly began studying the carpet’s patterns at his feet.  He was pretty certain his girl wasn’t enjoying milkshakes when she’d said that.  He wasn’t about to tell anyone else his theory.  If Willow wanted a milkshake, though, she would get one.  “Cordelia, will you go buy Willow a peanut butter milkshake, please?”

     Cordelia looked at Xander, “You go.”  Glancing back at Angel she said, “Trust me, Xander’s your man for that job.  It’s like having a bloodhound on the case, one whose specialty is sweets and junk food.  He’ll find one in no time.  It’s not like peanut butter is a common flavor, it’ll have to be tracked down.”  Angel nodded in agreement.  After all, he’d seen the boy in action himself.

     “Can’t disagree with facts!”  Xander fished his keys out of his pocket.  “I’m off!  Operation PBS.”

     As Xander left on his mission, Angel handed out assignments.  “Wes, research peanut butter milkshakes.  Find what looks like the tastiest recipe.  Cordy, when he locates it, go buy whatever you need to make them…several of them.”

     “Right, then,” Wesley said as he began his online search.

     Cordelia and Wesley understood.  There was no telling when Willow would wake up and Angel wanted fresh ones ready around the clock, just in case.  “Okay, Boss, we’ll see to it,” Cordelia said, smiling up at Angel confidently.”

     Angel smiled back; he knew they’d take care of it posthaste.  They’d been supportive and helpful unconditionally throughout the ordeal of the last year.  Now he needed to be with Willow.  She’d regain consciousness anytime now, he felt it.

     Once Angel left the room, Cordelia and Wesley shared a smile.  Both were having the same thought.  Cordelia raised her arms and said, “Yaay!  Willow’s urge doesn’t have a movie or soundtrack this time!”  Willow had hummed ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ briefly and Angel had had the movie playing in her room for three days…ad nauseum.  Even catchy tunes sucked when Angel got one stuck in his head and wouldn’t stop singing them.  They were all still recovering.

**********

     Angel sat down on the bed next to Willow and kissed her lips softly.  He leaned over her stomach and rested his elbow on her other side.  Head propped on his hand, he watched her face as he brought her up to speed.  “Sweetheart, you’ll have your heart’s desire in no time.”  He took her hand and placed a kiss on it.

     Willow squeezed his hand, wiggled slightly and said, “Mmm, love you so much.”

     Angel’s spirits soared.  That many signs of consciousness at once were unprecedented.  He squeezed back.  “I love you, too.  A lot.”  Grinning from ear to ear, he said, “Now, wake up, Potato Cake, and give us a kiss.”  He watched her face intently for a further sign.

     A tiny smile appeared on her lips and he could just make out her words.  “You keep calling me food,” she said sleepily.  Silence for a second, then she disjointedly continued, “Arby’s…Ling…Fish.”

      Excitedly, he replied, “Yes!”  Now if she’d just open her eyes!  In his enthusiasm, he began babbling.  “Buffy made me watch so many Ally McBeal tapes with you and her last summer.  That television show has ridiculous characters, but I liked that that greedy guy called his girlfriend food names.  I stole it.  And, and piggy Xander eats ‘potato cakes’ from some fast food restaurant called Arby’s *all the time*.  Hell, he just plain *eats* all the time.”  Angel stopped and waited.

     The smile continued on Willow’s face.  Slowly, she opened her eyes and looked at him sleepily.

     Angel’s heart soared.  Willow’s smile widened and she reached up to caress his cheek.  “Angel, you’re so funny.  You woke me up to tell me about television and food?”

     Angel couldn’t speak past the painful lump that had formed in his throat, so he just nodded his head.

     She giggled.  “Silly vampire.”  Willow sighed and snuggled against him.  “I was having the best dream, too.  First, I was about to have a tasty shake, then you started to do the most sinfully yummy things to my body.”  She looked at him seductively,” Wanna make my dreams come true, big boy?”

     Angel put her hand to his lips as a tear ran down his face.  He watched her in awe.  “Yes,” he choked out.  Clearing his throat he went on, “Making your dreams come true is my fondest wish.”

     A crease formed between her eyebrows and she wiped away his tear.  “Angel!  What…?”

     “Willow…I.”  He didn’t know what to say.  Obviously she had no idea she’d been unconscious for a little over a year.  Angel sat up, took her in his arms, and held her tight.  Plying the top of her head with kisses he said, “Oh, Willow, I love you.  God!  I love you so much.”

     Confused and concerned, she returned his embrace.

     Angel was wracked with sobs.  Bewildered, Willow began rocking them, cooing comforting words to calm him.  “Angel, I know you love me.  I love you, too.  Please tell me what’s wrong.  Don’t cry.  Shh.  It’ll be okay.”

     He pulled back, holding her by the shoulders.  “Just look at you!  You’re eyes are open.  Willow, you are so beautiful.”  He just continued to gaze at her adoringly.

     Willow didn’t have any clue how to react to his odd behavior.  “Umm.  Thank you.”  His prolonged scrutiny was unnerving her.  She smiled self-consciously, and, she hoped, comfortingly.

     The door flew open and Xander burst in.  “Ta da!  Mission accomplished!”  As soon as he saw the couple on the bed looking at him in surprise, he froze in place, mouth gaping.  A tall plastic cup fell from his hand and peanut butter milkshake spattered all over him and the floor

     Willow grinned and said, “Hi Xan!  What are you doing here?”

     Xander remained immobilized, but made some guttural, inarticulate sounds, “Uhhhh, ygggh, uhh.”

     Willow cocked her head, beyond perplexed.  Everything that was happening was just *too* weird.  She decided she must still be dreaming.  The dream had just taken a strange turn, that’s all…like they do.

~Part: 13~

Xander was rooted to the floor in astonishment.  His best friend was wide awake and grinning, as if nothing unusual had happened.  Willow’s beautiful green eyes were looking right at him; he could hardly believe what he saw.  Incredible.  Forming coherent words or thoughts was beyond him just yet.

     Angel was anxious to get Xander out of the room.  At any second, the boy could snap out of his stupor and inadvertently tell Willow more than she was ready to hear.  “Xander.”  Angel rose from the bed and walked toward him, looking at him meaningfully.  “Willow *just* woke up and I really need to talk to her alone.”

     Reluctantly, Xander’s eyes left Willow.  Now, looking at Angel, he grasped the gravity of the situation.  Angel was standing right in front of him, giving him a pleading look.  Xander nodded his understanding.

     The tense vampire was immensely relieved and smiled gratefully.

     Finding his tongue at last, Xander said, “Sure, Angel.  In fact, why don’t I just go downstairs?  Yeah, I’ll go down and let everyone know you and Wills need some time.  Time to chat.”  Xander’s head had been nodding the whole time he’d been speaking.  “I’ll be doing that, now.”  Xander walked to the door and looked at Willow one more time, smiling at her affectionately.

     Angel held his non-existent breath.

     Xander continued, “Willow, you look great, it’s *so* good to see you.”

     Sitting on the bed, trying hard to make sense of this ongoing weirdness, Willow just said, “Thank you,” and smiled softly.

     Xander left the room and walked down the hall slowly.  Tears ran down his face unchecked as he thought about the miracle he had just witnessed.

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

     Angel went to Willow and sat down next to her on the bed.  His mind was so full of thoughts that he didn’t know where to begin.  He wanted to just stare at her and bask in her presence.  He wanted to kiss her until she was dizzy.  He wanted to hold her close and never let her go.  He wanted to find the right words to explain the situation without upsetting her more than necessary.  He outlined her face with his fingertips, in wonder, as he considered how to begin.

     Bewildered and frustrated, Willow took Angel’s head in her hands.  “Angel.  Earth to Angel.”

     Returning from his reverie, Angel stopped caressing her face and looked into her eyes.  Warily, he said, “Yes, cupcake?”

     “Am I awake?  What…what…um.  Okay.”  Willow shook her head and shut her eyes for a few seconds, trying to get her mind to clear.  “I woke up because…”  She concentrated hard.  “You wanted to talk about watching television with Buffy and me and, and how Xander pigs out all the time.  Right.  Then, you said how much you love me and want to make my dreams come true.  Which is great, of course, I love that.  But then, you cried *a lot*,” she paused.  “There is too much weirdness to catalogue, here.”  Sighing, she leaned towards him.  “Am I still asleep and just having a totally funky dream?”  She let go of his head and awaited a response.

     Hearing Willow babble again was music to Angel’s ears.  Smiling, he shook his head, “No.  You *are* awake.”

     Willow looked somewhat reassured.  “Okay, that’s a start.”

     “Willow, I’m going to try to explain all the strangeness to you.  But first, what’s the last thing you remember before…before you went to sleep?”

     “Um,” Willow looked down at her lap, in thought.  “Oh!  Pretty jammies.  Hey!  I don’t remember buying these.”

     Angel took her distraction in stride and admired the mint green, satin pajamas with matching lace at the cuffs and collar.  They complemented her perfectly.  “Cordelia bought those for you, but I’ll get to that.  Tell me what you remember and we’ll go from there.”

     Willow frowned in concentration.  Angel had asked a simple question.  Why wasn’t answering simple, too?  All she could come up with were snippets of favorite music, movies and things Angel and her friends had told her.  “Angel, I’m sorry, I know it sounds flaky…but, I remember lots of things, but, like…like I wasn’t really there.”  She looked at him apologetically.

     “Willow.” Angel kissed her cheek.  “Don’t worry about how it sounds.  I promise, I won’t think you’re flaky.”  He smiled encouragingly, silently urging her to continue.

     He was so sweet and patient with her.  She loved that.  “All right.  I’ll start with you.”  She nodded to herself and tried again.  “You told me stories about when you were a boy.”  She grinned as memories came back to her.  “Angel, you were sooo full of the dickens! You must’ve driven your mom nuts!  You told me such funny stuff…with your brogue.  Yeah…mmm.”  She pulled him towards her by his shirt front and started kissing him.  “God, I love it when you talk like that,” she said between kisses.  Willow deepened the kiss.

     Angel wrapped her in his arms and kissed her back.  She felt so good and his body was responding to her strongly.  Groaning, he pulled back.  “Willow…I really want to…we can’t do that right now.”  He growled, low in his throat.  “We need to stay focused.”

     Willow lowered her eyes and looked up at him provocatively through her lashes.  “Angel,” she ran her hands up his inner thighs, “it feels like forever since we made love.  I really need you.”  She began to unfasten his pants.

     Angel fought to retain control of himself.  It had been so long, his body ached for her.  Moaning, he removed Willow’s hands.  Placing her hands firmly at her sides, he said, “Believe me, I would like nothing better than to make love to you, right now.”  Whew, he was flustered.  Standing, he refastened his pants, now uncomfortably snug.  “Sweetheart, we really need to stay on track here.”

     Willow pouted adorably.  “Please?  I could…”  She stopped flirting suddenly and frowned.  “Oh, Angel!  Angel, I just flashed on…”  She took a deep breath.  “Did Buffy and Xander come here and, and, oh, no!”  Willow looked up in alarm, her eyes finishing the question.

     Angel was quickly back at her side, grabbing her hand.  “That did happen.  It’s okay, though.  Do you remember what happened next?”

     She did.  The events of that entire evening fell into place in her mind.  Terrified and confused, she squeezed Angel’s hand.

     Angel yanked his hand away from her in pain and surprise and yelled, “Ow!”  Looking at his injured hand, Angel realized that immortality wasn’t the only thing changed about her.  Willow was really strong now.  He flexed his hand, *really* strong.

     “Angel…what?”   Willow started crying.  “I hurt you!  I’m so sorry.  And, and I remember Pordkai venom hitting me.”  She looked pitiful.  “Please tell me what’s going on.  What the hell happened last night?  Why am I not dead?”

     With his good hand, he smoothed Willow’s hair.  “Relax and take a deep breath,” he said soothingly.  “Please.”  She did.  “For some reason, the venom didn’t kill you.  However, you’re not unaffected.  You’re immortal as a result and…evidently, quite strong.”  He held up his sore hand as exhibit ‘A’.

     Willow didn’t say anything.  She just stared at him open-mouthed.

     Angel was unsure about how to proceed, but he plodded on.  “There’s more.  The Pordkai incident wasn’t last night, Willow.”  He watched her carefully as he relayed the next piece of information.  “It was a little over a year ago.”

     Her expression didn’t change.  After a few moments, she began to look around her.  She saw the mess Xander made when he dropped the cup.  Her eyes continued to roam the room.  Everything from her bedroom at her parents’ house was here.  Her possessions  were all over the room, mixed with Angel’s, like they belonged there.

     Her eyes returned to Angel’s.

     She looked distressed, but still didn’t speak.  Angel was concerned.  “Willow?”

     She spoke so quietly, he barely heard her.   “I don’t understand.”

     “Oh, Willow.”  She was stiff as he took her in his arms and kissed the top of her head.  Sitting back to look her in the eyes, he said, “You’ve been in a coma since that night.”

     Willow struggled to assimilate all this information.  She felt like reality had shattered and she couldn’t quite piece it back together.

     Angel watched her sympathetically.  He wanted to give her a few minutes to think.  This must be so overwhelming for her, he thought sadly.

     Hundreds of questions bounced around in Willow’s head.  She just plucked one out of the jumble, finally.  She looked at Angel and asked, “What about my parents, what were they told?”

     Relieved she finally spoke, he hurried to answer.  “Buffy and Giles handled them.   They created a new e-mail address for you and send your parents messages.  Something about you studying abroad on scholarship.  I don’t know the particulars, but it seems to have worked.”  Angel certainly didn’t think people who neglected Willow like the Rosenbergs did deserved to be called parents, but he wasn’t about to say so.  Their responses to “Willow’s” e-mails were along the line of ‘that’s nice dear’.

     “Oh.”  Willow thought it over and nodded.  She harbored no illusions about her parents.  Their interest in her was sporadic at best and non-existent the majority of the time.  Such a ploy would fool them easily.  “I see.”  She didn’t dwell on them.

     “What about Buffy and Xander?  I guess they had time to adjust to us?  My relationship with you, I mean.”

     “Yes, and they’ve missed you so much.  They’ve been here as much as they possibly could, to spend time with you.  Buffy feels awful about how she behaved that night.”

     Willow just nodded.  To her, it felt like those events had just happened, but she didn’t hold a grudge.  Buffy had had a shock, after all.  Willow snorted to herself, boy, she could relate to that.

     Angel’s heart hurt for Willow.  She was stunned, but being very brave.  “Willow,” he was so relieved to have her back, it choked him up.  Clearing his throat, he tried again, “Willow, I can’t imagine what you must be feeling right now, so I’m just going to let you tell me what you need.  Okay?”

     Willow looked deeply into his beautiful brown eyes, so full of love for her.  It was obvious his feelings for her hadn’t lessened while she was gone.  “Oh, Angel,” she laid her hand on his cheek.  “What about you?  How did you deal with this?”

     Angel covered her hand with his own.  What did he ever do to deserve this wonderful woman?  She had just received devastating news, yet she was worried about *him*.  She certainly deserved an honest answer.  As a tear rolled down his cheek, he said, “I was scared, lonely and sad.  Jesus, Willow,” he took her in his arms, “I was so afraid you’d never wake up.  Without you the world felt empty and meaningless.  I need you.  I always will.”

     Willow returned his embrace, holding him tight.  She felt so safe in his arms.  Things didn’t seem nearly as frightening, knowing he was here for her.  “It must’ve been hard,  Angel, I’m so sorry.  But I’m grateful, too.  Thank you for loving me enough to wait for me.”  Time stood still.  Neither of them knew how long they stayed wrapped in each others arms.  Nothing existed outside of their embrace.

     Willow’s thoughts returned to the changes in her that Angel had mentioned.  She and Angel could be together forever, now.  She no longer had to worry about aging and dying or letting him turn her into a vampire.  For now, she wouldn’t contemplate the downsides of immortality.  Adjusting to the upsides was daunting enough.  ‘Forever’ took on a whole new meaning for her.  Willow rested her forehead against Angel’s.  “We can be together for eternity.  Wow,” her voice was filled with awe.

     Relieved, Angel chuckled.  He hadn’t been at all sure how she would react to her eternal status.  Of course, he was tickled silly about it, but he’d had a long time to adjust to the idea.  His love, by his side, forever.  He felt happiness beyond conception at the thought.  The heartache of the past year felt like a vague memory now.  “Willow,” Angel sat back and buried his hands in her hair, his eyes shining with love.  “I promise to spend every day of my existence trying to make you as happy as I feel right now.”

     Powerfully moved by the depth of love and emotion reflected in his eyes and words, Willow couldn’t speak.  Something between a laugh and a sob escaped her.  Her hand caressed his face and hair as she looked at him.  This gorgeous, incredible man…vampire, vowed to make her happy forever.  She felt like the luckiest girl alive.  Her gaze fixed on his lips as she softly ran a finger across them.  Slowly, Willow leaned forward, closing her eyes.  Gently, she kissed his perfect mouth, conveying all the feelings running through her.

     Engulfed in the magical haze of her touch and kiss, Angel slid his hands down her satin covered back and puller her closer.  Fires of long denied passion ignited, demanding expression.

     Willow moaned, running her hands down his chest, up his sides, across his shoulders and back.  She desperately needed to touch him, all of him.

     Willow’s hands left trails of electricity in their wake.  Angel purred as his body came to life from her touch.  When she began stroking and kneading his thighs, he pulled away with a growl, removing her pajama top swiftly.  He had to feel her bare skin and taste her.  The elevated heat of her body was making him crazy.

     Angel buried his face in her neck, savoring her scent and softness.  When he gently sucked the delicate skin into his mouth, Willow whimpered helplessly, burrowing her fingers into his hair.  Her body burned with white-hot intensity.  He kissed and licked a path to a throbbing nipple, pulling it into his mouth, worshipping it with his tongue.  Every sensation was enhanced by their contrasting body temperatures.  Willow hadn’t known he’d removed her pajama bottoms until he entered her slick passage with two fingers.  His expert manipulation was her undoing.  Wave after wave of exquisite pleasure overtook her.  Her vaginal muscles clutched and spasmed like they never wanted to stop.  Every nerve tingled as she cried out.  Angel carefully removed his fingers and laid Willow flat on the bed.  Slowly, her quivering subsided.  Unsteadily, Angel rose from the bed to remove his clothes.  Enough presence of mind remained to remind him to lock the door while he was up.  The real world would intrude soon enough.

     “Angel, hurry, I need you.”  He slid into bed next to Willow, who wrapped her whole body around him.  Her breasts pressed against his chest, her wet center hugging his erection, every inch of her radiating delicious, erotic heat.  Kissing him urgently, she sucked his tongue into her mouth, satisfying her need to taste him.  The stimulation of so many body parts at once was too much after a long abstinence.  Angel’s entire body convulsed and he came violently, shaking the room with a loud, resonating growl.

     Once his mind returned, he was mortified.  Willow was finally awake and before he could make love to her properly, he came all over himself and her like an untried schoolboy.  Cringing in embarrassment, he whispered “I’m sorry, Willow, I wanted you so badly and...”  He closed his eyes, miserable about letting her down.

     “Shh.”  Willow kissed him softly.  “Angel, listen.”  Willow discreetly wiped them both off with her discarded pajama top.  “I am so flattered.”  She tossed the top on the floor and lay on top of him to look him in the eye.  “Angel, look at me.”  She tapped his chin with her forefinger.  He met her eyes.  “You wanted me so badly, you lost control. I don’t feel disappointed!  God, just the opposite.  I feel incredibly sexy to be *that* desired.”

     He looked at her skeptically, “Really?”

     She stroked his shoulders and was filled with love as she smiled at him.  “Yes, really.  Now,  before I have to face the world outside this room as a Rip Van Winkled, immortal woman, I want you to do something for me.”

     He raised one eyebrow, “Of course, anything.”

     Willow reached her hands out to his, clasping fingers.  “Vampire stamina kinda makes premature ejaculation a non-issue, don’t you think?  Show me how you *were* going to make love to me.  You know, just for the record.”  She gave him a teasing look and waggled her eyebrows.

     Angel smirked.  She was back.  The sweet, kind, adorable, playful, brilliant, beautiful, funny woman that he loved was back.  “I can do that.”

     In a smooth, lightning fast move, he flipped her onto her back and proceeded to make love to her with every bit of finesse he had attained in the last two and a half centuries.

~Part: 14~

     Willow felt relaxed and languid lying in Angel’s arms.  Their lovemaking had been beautiful and intense.  He was fast asleep.  This was good; she needed some quiet time to think about the ramifications of the changes she had undergone, as well as the year she had missed.

     Contemplating her absence was disorientating; on the one hand she felt like no time had passed…on the other hand, she had distinct memories of Angel and her friends talking to her and keeping her abreast of their daily lives.  Bah!  Confusing.  It was immensely comforting to know that none of her relationships with those closest to her had suffered.  In fact, their shared concern for her appeared to have brought *them* closer to each other.  From her brief glimpse of Angel and Xander together, she surmised they’d formed a close enough bond to facilitate silent communication.  Jeepers!  She never thought she’d see the day…Angel and Xander, buds.  Hmm.  Well, life was full of surprises and that one was a really happy one.

     Willow sighed and thought, okay, next issue:  super human strength.  Actually, that was pretty great, she was anxious to take that one out for a spin, see what she could do.  Note to self:  proceed with caution when shaking hands, hugging, etc.  A girl who doesn’t know her own strength can do some damage.  She glanced at Angel’s hand that she had squeezed earlier.  Good, completely recovered.  Hooray for speedy vamp healing.  Oh!  Her healing abilities had probably improved, too.  Willow's tummy fluttered and she pressed her bottom into the bed.  Yes indeedy, definitely looking forward to exploring sexual avenues that enhanced strength and healing open up!  Mmmm.  She glanced up, Angel was still sound asleep.  Oh well, she needed to stay the course with this thought process anyway.

     Without question, her senses were more acute.  She could hear the voices of her friends downstairs, but was able to tune sounds out, too.  Odd.  She would've thought that knack required practice.  Maybe she had developed that skill while she was comatose.  Made sense, she thought:  after all, she'd been able to focus on her friends conversations with her, instead of say...street noise.  Cool, one less adjustment to make.  She looked around the room, testing her vision.  It was quite dark, but she could see everything perfectly.  Handy trick, that.

     Immortality:  Now, there's the one she definitely had mixed feelings about.  Not changing physically and living forever was hard to imagine.  She was so lucky to have Angel.  If it weren't for him, all she'd be able to think about right now would be that eventually she’d have to watch those she cared about grow old and die.  How do you deal with that?  One day at a time, probably, like anything else that was hard to handle.  Still, the prospect made her sad.  Battling evil was dangerous work, and she'd lost people she cared about in the process, but this was different.  Angel had been around a long time, she'd get his perspective before she thought about that further.  Dwelling on it was fruitless.
     By and large, Willow felt she was taking her turn of events well.  Suddenly she had an unwelcome thought and sat up with a gasp as fear shot through her.  Her experience somewhat reminded her of Buffy’s “aspect of the demon” experience.  “Angel,” she shook the sleeping vampire.  “Angel!”

     Groggily, he looked at Willow; he could hear her heart pounding.  “What?  What’s wrong?”  Concern for Willow caused him to wake fully and sit up.  Caressing her arm to calm her, he said, “Tell me.”

     Willow looked at him with wide eyes, “Do I…do I…I was thinking about when, um…remember when Buffy had the “aspect of the demon?”  Well, my situation has parallels and I’m afraid of…um.”

     Angel was relieved when he realized where she was going with her babble, this he could fix.  Smiling softly, he took her hand and kissed the knuckles.  “Shh, no, no, Willow love, you *won’t* dissolve in water like the Pordkai demon.  Wes and Giles had the same concern and did tests; water is completely safe for you.  The Pordkai *did not* have that effect on you, so don’t worry yourself.”

     “Whew!”  Willow smiled, “Going through life avoiding water would’ve left a lot to be desired!  Plus, ewww, stinky.  Giving up baths and showers was a scary thought.”

     Laughing, Angel hugged her and gave her a loud, smacking kiss on the head.  “I still would’ve loved you…no matter *how* bad you smelled.”

     “That’s good to know.”  Willow hugged him back and planted kisses on his cheek, “I’m sorry I woke you up with my little panic attack.”

     “It’s okay, sweet, I missed you so much the past year, being woken by you in *any* state is a pleasure.”  He hugged her harder, “Since I’m not the only one thrilled about your return, maybe we should think about going downstairs.”  He pulled back, so he could see her face, “Are you up to seeing everyone, yet?”

     Willow nodded.  “Yeah.  While you were sleeping, I kind of sorted through everything …well, not *everything*, that’s going to take awhile.  I do feel steadier now, you know, not as off balance from shock.  I guess it was pretty selfish of me to make them wait.”

     “Sweetheart, nobody could ever think of you as selfish, you don’t have a selfish bone in your delectable little body.  We better get dressed, because you sitting there naked is giving me lascivious ideas.”

     Willow batted her eyes, “Oh, yeah?”

     “Oh, yeah.  Now, get up, you little temptress, and put some clothes on.”  Angel gave her a motivational little push and smacked her rear.

     She climbed off the bed and went to the closet muttering about bossy vampires.

     Angel grinned and followed her.  She was sassy and adorable and the most perfect thing he had ever seen, he thought contentedly.

     “Wow!”  Willow was amazed, “my whole wardrobe is overhauled.”

     Angel chuckled.  “Courtesy of Cordelia.  Shopping for you was comforting, she said.  It was her way of taking care of you.”

     Willow rifled through hangers, impressed.  “Well, she did great!  She managed to use her good taste *and* stay true to mine.  Maybe I’ll let her do all my shopping from now on.”

     Angel snorted, “She’ll love that.  She thinks she should be in charge of *everyone’s* wardrobe.”

     “Hmmm.”  Willow wanted something special for the occasion.  “Oh, yummy!  Wear these.”  She handed him distressed looking brown leather pants and a black silk shirt.

     “Hey, pick out your own outfit,” not taking the hanger.

     She pushed the hanger at him and said seductively, “Wear these and the rewards will be great.”

     Angel raised an eyebrow and quickly took the clothes, he was no fool.

      “Now,” Willow tapped her foot and considered her options.

      “Well?”

     Willow turned around to see Angel, dressed.  *Very nice*.  She ran her hands up his chest, “definitely sexy.  I have major plans for you later, big guy.”  Angel smirked and grabbed her bottom, pulling her close.  “Tsk, tsk, no you don’t, mister.  Hanky panky later.”  Willow pushed him back a step, “pick an outfit for me now, I’m not good at this.”

     Angel liked that idea and smiled smugly as he sauntered to the closet.  “You asked for it.”  He studied the contents and made his choice, “yesirree, we have a winner,” he handed her two hangers.

     “Jeans and a shirt?”  She had expected something a little more remarkable.  “Okay,” she went to the dresser for a bra and panties.

     “Uh, uh.  You *won’t* spoil the look with under things!  Now put those on,” he pointed to the outfit she was holding.
     “But…”

     Angel rolled his eyes.  “Hush woman and trust me, just get dressed.”  Willow complied with a sigh, while he fetched her footwear.

     The jeans were low-cut and faded bell bottoms and the shirt looked innocuous enough on the hanger, but left her midriff bare, she discovered when she put it on.  Willow sat on the bed and put the socks and brown boots on Angel had handed her.  She wasn’t thrilled with the two inch heel, but clearly, arguing was useless.  She stood up and put out her arms, “Okay, ready to meet and greet,” and started toward the door.

 Angel intercepted her, “Oh, baby,” Angel said huskily, admiring her, “You look good enough to eat.”  Guiding her to the full length mirror, he said, “Look.”

     Not being one to primp, Willow hadn’t even checked out her appearance.  She did a double take as she looked at her reflection.  Her hair (which she hadn’t even thought to brush) was down to her hips.  She’d realized it had grown a lot, soon after she woke up, but still, it surprised her.  She leaned closer to the mirror.  “I look…different.  My hair is redder and thicker, and, and, wow.”  Silently, she scrutinized herself.  She looked basically the same, just more…vibrant.  Her eyes were brighter and surrounded by thicker, fuller lashes, her skin looked luminous and her cheeks and lips were pink and rosy.  “Angel?”

     He put his hands on her shoulders and admired her reflection, “You look beautiful.”

     “Thank you, but…”

     He went to get her brush as he said, “Immortality enhances aspects of appearance, I guess.”  He began to brush her hair, which he loved and did frequently lately.  “I’ve seen it in vampires.  Naturally, since I can’t see my reflection, I can’t speak for myself.  Are you okay with it?”

     Angel continued to worry that at some point, the shock of so many changes in such a short span of time would overwhelm her.

     Willow smiled.  “I’m *very* okay with it.  I look…well, I like it.  My hair is brushed enough, though, you can stop now.”

     Angel kept brushing her hair, entranced.  The color was so rich and every strand caught the light and shimmered.  It was very full and he loved how it felt running through his fingers, like fine silk.

     “Ahem.”  Willow turned around and took the brush from him.

     “Oh, sorry,” he said, looking slightly abashed.  “But, Willow…”
     “Yes?”  She cocked her head as he continued to run his fingers through her hair, but didn’t answer immediately.  His facial expression was shy and a little uncomfortable.

     Willow put her hands on his, “What?”

     Angel sighed, “It’s just that your hair is so beautiful.  I was wondering…I mean, it’s *your* hair and you can do whatever you want, but…”

     “Ahhh, I get it,”  Willow saw where he was going with his hemming and hawing, and grinned up at him.  “You love my hair all long and lush and are afraid I’ll cut it the first chance I get!”

     Angel was relieved he hadn’t had to say the words, and a little worried.  He didn’t want her to change her hair, but didn’t want her to think he was bossy and controlling either, “Well, yeah.”

     Willow giggled and hugged him and he was *still* running his fingers through her hair.  “Angel, you have a hair fetish!”

     He snorted and said, “I do not,” defensively, then fidgeted and conceded, “Well, just yours.”

     “Well rest assured that A) I’m not about to change *anything* that you like so much and B) I’ve regretted cutting it in the first place, I like it long, too, and missed it.  Plus, now it’s way better.”  She gave him reassuring pats on the back as she continued to hug him.

     Angel was very pleased and kissed the crown of her head.  He would’ve been very disappointed to see that glorious hair get cut off, but it was her decision.  He was just glad she made the right one.  “Now,” he detached himself from her and turned her back to face the mirror, “What do you think of the rest of you?”

     Willow raised her eyebrows as she checked out her clothes.  Definitely bolder than she normally would pick for herself.  She had to admit, the look was sexy and flattering without being…slutty.  She twisted and turned as she took in different angles.  The top had long sleeves that filled out and belled beginning at the elbow and was paisley with different blues and beiges.  The scooped neck was cut low enough to *almost* show cleavage and just tight enough to show curves.  It ended right above her belly button and the jeans were cut low, too, so it was more exposure than she was used to.  The colors were definitely becoming.  “I like it,” she finally replied.  “I look a little retro and bohemian and it’s sure sexier than I’m used to.”  She nodded to her reflection and turned back to Angel.  “But, I’m a new me and I want to dress that way.”

     Angel smirked and put his hands on her hips.  “The look suits you.  It’s very sexy, but not too revealing and alludes to your wilder side.”  He raised an eyebrow and squeezed her hips, “Just as long as the world just gets to *glimpse* your wild side, but only I *experience* it.

     Willow smirked back, “It’s a deal.  Now, quit thinking about taking me back to bed.”  At his indignant look, she continued, “I wasn’t born yesterday, you horn-dog, I know exactly what you were thinking.”  She glanced at his crotch, “Get that under control and we’re out of here.”  She headed to the door without looking back and said, “And quit looking at my butt.”

     “How did you…?”

     “Because, you’re a ‘butt man’ and even I have to admit, mine looks great in these jeans,” she said as she walked out the door.

     Angel roared with laughter as he followed his irresistible woman out of the room.

~Part: 15~

     Angel followed Willow down the hall as she went to reunite with the friends who had missed her and worried about her so desperately.  He couldn’t help but admire the view.  Every detail of her captivated him, from the way her lovely hair swung gently, light dancing in it, giving it a life of it’s own, to the feminine sway of her hips, long, with her long, slender legs leading to her delectable bottom.  Poetry could be written about the graceful lines of her exposed lower back, hips and waist.  At the familiar tightening of his groin, he thought eternity wasn’t long enough to make love to her and pay proper homage to her divine attributes.  Yep, he admitted to himself, he had it bad.

     Angel stopped at the top of the steps as Willow paused half way down to look at their assembled friends.  He watched her fondly as tears welled in her eyes and she smiled softly.  She was taking a moment to savor the sweetness of the sight.  Cordelia, Wesley, Giles, Xander, Buffy and Gunn were chatting excitedly as they made the lobby festive for an impromptu party.  There was a big sign proclaiming, “We Love You, Willow, Welcome Back!” and another, smaller sign that said, “It’s About Time, Sleepyhead!”…Angel guessed that that was Cordelia’s contribution and chuckled to himself.

     As Willow resumed her descent, Buffy was the first to spot her.  The Slayer froze and said, “Willow,” in a choked whisper as tears began to stream down her face.  Silence fell over the room as everyone turned to look at Willow, who had now reached the base of the steps.

     Angel crossed his arms over his chest and leaned on the banister as he observed the awe and joy on the assembled faces.  The deep emotion in the air was palpable.  He was moved by the gasps and sobs and smiled as Buffy bounded across the room and encompassed Willow in a bear hug.  Thank goodness his beloved was now equipped to withstand Slayer sized…exuberance.  The group gathered around them, each waiting their turn to greet Willow.  Angel had no desire to budge from his post, as witnessing this reunion was priceless.  Predictably, Xander couldn’t wait for Buffy to relinquish Willow.  Tugging Willow’s hand, he pulled her free and gathered her in his arms, crying openly.  Xander held her like he might never let go and buried his face in her hair, soaking it with his tears of happiness.  Eventually Willow pulled back, affectionately stroking his arm and kissing his cheek.  Clearly, Willow was too overwhelmed to speak.  Xander stepped back and wiped his face with his shirtsleeve as Giles moved in.

     A tear rolled down Angel’s cheek at the expression of fatherly adoration on Giles’ face as he took Willow’s head in his hands and whispered, “Welcome back, child, I missed you so.”  He gazed deeply into her eyes, as if trying to prove to himself she wasn’t just a wistful illusion.  Apparently assured she was indeed real, he leaned down and tenderly kissed her forehead.

     “Thank you, Giles,” Willow said softly with a hiccupping sob.

     Angel could see that the display of parental devotion shown by Giles was Willow’s undoing.  Her life had sorely lacked it and she desperately craved it as a result.  Getting his own emotions in check, he hurried to Willow’s side, placing his hand on the small of her back to let her know he understood and was there.

     Willow looked up gratefully at Angel with a quivering lip and tear filled eyes.

     Warm brown eyes smiled softly down at her as Angel touched her cheek and said quietly, “I know, my love.”

     Cordelia broke the spell of the moment by bustling up and saying, “Come here, you,” as she embraced Willow and kissed her cheek soundly.  “Now,” smiling brightly and sniffling, the seer took her hand, “Come on,” leading her to a food laden table.  “I have just the thing to show you how happy I am to see you,” and ceremoniously handed her a peanut butter milkshake.

     Willow giggled delightedly, thrilled with the treat and relieved at the lightening of the atmosphere.  Sipping and moaning with ecstasy, she thanked Cordelia profusely.

     Angel sent Cordelia a smile of gratitude and she winked back at him.  The seer had a gift for sensing when things got too heavy and he appreciated her ability to lighten the mood.  Finding a good vantage point, Angel sat down and resumed his unobtrusive observation.  Wesley quietly approached Willow, and the vampire smiled at his kind, but awkward way of letting her know how pleased he was to have her back in the fold.  Gunn followed close on his heels.  Gunn had known Willow such a short time before the attack and consequent coma, but Willow, being Willow, had already earned his friendship and loyalty.

     Angel relaxed and sat back to savor every moment of the festivities.  His heart was full as he watched the constant flow of hugs, kisses and declarations of happiness and affection his precious Willow received.  She was humbled and awed by the reception.  Periodically she would glance his way and they would share a smile.  Being consistently giving, kind, supportive, and loving, Willow had often been taken for granted.  Angel took immense satisfaction in seeing her being shown how deeply appreciated, valued and loved she actually was.  He felt supremely confident none of these people would ever underestimate her importance in their lives again.  The last year had driven that lesson home.

     As the warm family gathering continued around him, Angel considered the future.  Because this group *was* a family, in every way that really counted, he couldn’t help but think of them that way.  He rejoiced at the prospect of Willow by his side, to love and cherish forever.  Such a bright, shiny future was out of the realm of his experience.

     Eventually, there would be marriages and children to celebrate, he and Willow would become honorary aunt and uncle to the future members of this group that meant so much to them.  That would go a long way in easing the pain Willow would eventually feel at losing those close to her.  Him too, he admitted to himself.  Future generations would ensure they always had a part of these people in their lives.  Angel’s fantasies of future prospects were interrupted.
     “Ahem.” Giles said, trying to get everyone’s attention.  He wasn’t having much luck, so he tapped a glass with a spoon.  “Everyone, I’d like to make a toast to Willow.”  Having gained their notice, he handed out flutes of champagne.

     Angel rose and went to stand next to Willow, putting his arm around her.

     Giles glanced around to make sure everyone was ready.  “Now, then,” he lifted his glass to the guest of honor.  “Willow, you are a shining light to all who know you.  Even comatose, your existence brought goodness.  Concern over you caused us all to put petty differences aside and come together like a family.  Just knowing you is a blessing.  Now, we are all doubly blessed to have you back with us.  Welcome back, and thank you for all the gifts being part of your life has brought us.”

     One and all had tears in their eyes as they toasted Willow.  A cacophony of “hear, hear’s,” “cheers,” and “To Willow’s,” went up as they drank their champagne.

     Willow had tears on her cheeks as she said, “Thank you,” and smiled at the people who had gone from being dear friends to the family that loved her and made her feel special.  She had longed for that feeling her entire life.  She looked up at Angel and as he took her hand and kissed it, she couldn’t imagine feeling happier or more complete.

     The look in Willow’s eyes swept Angel off his feet.  He was the luckiest guy in the world, he thought.  Nothing could possibly be as beautiful as Willow happy.  He was about to give her the kiss that that look deserved when Xander bounced up and grabbed her into a hug.

     Xander smirked at Angel’s disgruntled glare, “Sorry Deadboy, she’s ours, too.”

     Willow grinned and shrugged at Angel as Xander pulled her away and back to the party.

     Sighing with resignation, the vampire took a seat on the couch.

     Buffy plunked down next to him and ruffled his hair.  “Hey chief!  Don’t be so glum…you *do* get to keep her for eternity.  Plus, you just had Willow all to yourself for hours, doing god-knows-what to her.”

     Angel raised an eyebrow at the annoyingly perky Slayer.

     Buffy thought this was hysterically funny.  Angel’s continuing grumpy scowl just made it funnier and she howled even harder.  When she caught her breath, she said, “Now *there’s* the broody vamp we all know and love.”

     Deadpan, Angel said, “I’m glad you find me amusing, *I live* to entertain *you*.”

     Fighting to contain a new fit of giggles his poutiness was threatening to bring on, she said, “It’s just that it was hard to recognize you, standing there with Wills looking all happy and love struck.”

     Angel rolled his eyes.  “Get over it, woman.  That was the *old* me.”  He looked over at Willow, who was smiling and joking with Gunn and Xander and gave Buffy a silly grin.  Pointing at his mouth, he said, “This is the *new* me.  Adapt.”

     “Smiling *and* being a smart-ass funny guy.”  Buffy nodded approvingly and patted his hand, “You’ve come a long way, baby.”

     “You know it,” the vampire replied cockily.

     Buffy became serious, making eye contact with Angel.  “I’m so happy for you and Willow.  Truly.”

     Placing his hand on her shoulder, he smiled affectionately, “Thank you.  That means a lot.”

     Buffy looked down at her lap, “You told Willow that I hate the way I acted when I found out about you two and that I’m sorry?”

     Angel nodded, “Yes.  You know her; she’s not one to hold a grudge.  She has no hard feelings towards you.”

     Buffy looked back at him sadly.  “That just makes me feel worse for acting like such a bitch.”

     “You two can talk and clear the air.  It’ll be like old times…visiting and laughing.  You’ll see, there won’t be a bit of awkwardness…your friendship has a strong history.”

     Buffy nodded, not entirely convinced, but hopeful, and looked at Willow, who was hugging Giles.  “God, it’s so good to have her back.”  She looked back at Angel, “What’s next for you two?”

     Angel sighed and leaned his head back.  “*Anything* she wants.  Willow has a lot to adjust to, so I’ll be there for her and help as much as I can.  Mostly, I just want to love her and support her in whatever she wants to pursue.”

     Buffy snickered, “You are sooo whipped.”

     Angel chortled, “I *know* it…and I *like* it.”

     “Yeah, I bet you do!  She looks totally hot in that outfit.  I’ve tried for years to get her to show off that great bod of hers, with no success.  What’s the deal, did you put a whammy on her?”

     Angel’s expression became proud and possessive, “She wanted a new look to go with the new her and asked a horny demon to pick her outfit…that’s the result.”

     “Uh huh.  I see.  Well done, Angelus.”

     Angel looked at her curiously and said, “Thank you.”

     Buffy snorted, “Don’t look so surprised.  I’m not *totally* clueless.  We’ve all seen the difference in you since you found out your soul is secure.  Just because we’re not freaked out by it, doesn’t mean we haven’t noticed the changes:  You walk different, kick ‘bad guy’ ass more fiercely, you’re definitely more take charge…*sometimes* annoyingly bossy, even, and just *look* how you’re dressed right now.”

     Angel glanced at his, admittedly ‘Angelussy’ ensemble and said smugly, “For your information, Miss Know-It-All, *Willow* picked these clothes.”

     With a knowing chuckle, Buffy responded, “That’s not  real surprising.”  She rolled her eyes at his facial expression, “Don’t give me that innocent look, you know damned well the effect you have on the ladies dressed like that!  So just drop the whole ‘humble pie’ routine.  I’m not buyin’ it”

     Angel adopted the unreadable expression that had always left the Slayer baffled…no matter what persona he projected:  Angel, Angelus, or the most recent combination of the two.

     Buffy sighed and shook her head.  “Okay, Mr. Poker Face, be that way.”  She continued to think of the changes in Angel.  Worrying about Willow had brought forth a lot of broodiness in the last twelve months, naturally.  But, like she’d said to Angel, Angelus’ presence in his psyche had been apparent.  The whole gang had discussed it a number of times and agreed:  It was of the good.  He was more balanced now.  The soul and the demon combined seamlessly, and since his soul was so clearly in charge, nobody felt threatened.  With Willow back, he’d be better than ever.  As she and Angel continued to sit in companionable silence, she thought about how happy she was for him.  Now he had potential to be a *whole* person, without the various issues that had colored his existence ever since he’d become a vampire.  Finally he was getting what he so richly deserved.  Buffy smiled at Angel and said, “Yay, you, Angel,” and gave him a peck on the cheek.  “I’m off to scarf whatever goodies are left.  Deep thinking makes a girl hungry.”

     As Angel watched Buffy go over and peruse the buffet, he contemplated her mysterious statements.  Deciding it was futile, he gave up and went back to his favorite pastime:  Watching Willow.

     Willow must’ve felt his gaze, as she turned around and gave him an alluring look and a dazzling smile.  Angel shifted in his seat; it could only mean good things when his girl gave him a look like that.  His eyes took on a predatory gleam as she gracefully made her way over to him.  Hot damn, she looked good.  She certainly knew how to work her audience; swinging her hair over her shoulder, she casually ran her hand across her bare midsection and breast seductively.  As she reached Angel and placed herself in his lap, he desperately wished all the other revelers would magically disappear.  Willow wrapped her arms around his neck and gave him a kiss that made him forget his own name.

     Sitting back and admiring the effect she had on him, Willow purred, “Miss me, lover?”

     Angel growled and ground his erection into her bottom, “Hell no, I was just wishing the party would go on all night and that they never leave.”

     Willow smiled at his sarcasm as his hands slid to her hips.  She stifled a moan as he maneuvered her so he got pressure where he wanted it most.  Now his arousal was pressing against her invitingly.  Clever vampire, she thought, he had smoothly taken the upper hand, now it was her turn to have trouble remembering her own name.  “You know, Angel,” her voice cracked, so she cleared her throat and tried again, “Everyone’s having such a good time and I did the visit and catch-up thing…if we left, they might not even notice.

     Surreptitiously, they both glanced at their otherwise occupied friends.  The coast was clear.  Faster than the eye could see, Angel picked up Willow and whisked her off to their bedroom.

     “Whoofta,” Willow said as he dropped her on the bed and she landed with a thump.  “Head rush.  Big time.  You move *fast*.”

     Angel was divesting himself of his pants, “Had to get while the getting was good, dontcha know.”  He stopped cold at Willow’s next words.

     “I probably should’ve said goodnight,” she chewed her lip as she looked at the door.   “It was pretty rude of me to leave a party in my honor without at least saying something.”

     Pants off, Angel started to remove his shirt.  “Too late for that little girl, I was perfectly content to be patient and enjoy the get-together until you started working your wiles on me.  You should’ve thought about that *before* you started teasing me.  Now, you’re sooo going to finish what you started.  He motioned to her, “Come on, clothes off, I’m not waiting all night.”

     Willow looked up at him thoughtfully, like she didn’t have a care in the world.  His domineering behavior was pretty sexy, and deserting her guests was no longer foremost in her mind.  Now her focus was on taking her time in order push Angel’s buttons…provoking him could have some…stimulating consequences.  Standing up on her knees, Willow slowly began to unfasten her pants.  Looking at the door again, she ran her tongue along her lips and said, “Are you *sure*, I shouldn’t go back down?”

     He was standing at the foot of the bed looking menacing.  Crossing his arms, he ground out, “Totally.  Fucking.  Sure.”

     Willow walked on her knees, leisurely, to the side of the bed.  She hadn’t removed the jeans, just left them open.  Slowly, she slid around, so she sat on the edge of the bed and bent to remove her boots.  She gave one a meager tug and sighed, “Angel,” she looked at him innocuously over her shoulder, “Could you get this boot off, please?”  She smiled guilelessly at him and daintily bounced her foot in the air while she waited for his help.

     He didn’t say a word, just fumed silently at her slowness and seeming lack of enthusiasm, as he moved to stand in front of her, facing away and taking her foot between his legs to tug the boot off.   As he pulled, she pushed against his naked butt with the other foot.  “Oooops!  I’m so sorry,” she said as he flew across the room with the boot in his hand from the unnecessary pressure she had applied.  He caught his balance and turned to glare at her suspiciously.  “Angel!  Oh, I feel so bad!  I’m going to have to get used to my new strength and be more careful.”  She must’ve been pretty convincing, because he gave her a small smile.

     “Don’t worry sweetheart, it will just take some time.”

     Great!  Now he was being all sweet, it made her feel kind of bad, but not enough to give up her little game.  “I’m sure you’re right.”  She waggled her other foot at him, “Do you trust me enough to finish the job?”

     Angel didn’t say anything, but he lifted her foot, facing her this time and standing far enough way so she couldn’t get any leverage.  He wasn’t positive she was up to something, but was suspicious enough to proceed with caution.  Removing the boot easily, he sat it next to it’s mate on the floor.

     Willow bounced her feet together in midair and coyly said, “Thank you,” smiling up at him sunnily.

     Angel watched her for a second, and then growled.  He’d had a hard on since they’d been downstairs on the couch and frustration was mounting.  He decided she didn’t need to be naked in order for him to move things along.  Pushing Willow back on the bed, he straddled her and put her hands over her head, holding them there with one of his own.  Willow squeaked, but offered no resistance.  He kissed her hard and possessively until her body relaxed submissively.  Laying on his side next to her, he nuzzled behind her ear with his lips and lightly scraped his fingernails across a nipple through her top, while her hands remained pinned over her head.  When she made a small whimper he pressed his erection against her hip and slid his free hand between her legs, running a finger softly along the seam that went from the bottom of the zipper and continued around to her ass.  He continued to run his finger up and down the seam, knowing it offered just enough sensation to be frustrating.  Kissing the delicate skin behind her ear that he had been nuzzling, he murmured, “You didn’t seem to be in a hurry to make love, so just let me know when you’re ready…I’ll know when that is because you’ll ask nicely and say please.”  She didn’t say anything, but the strangled moan she made sure sounded like acquiescence to him.  Using his knuckles, he increased the pressure and area he covered between her legs and somewhat harshly sucked and released the soft skin along the column of her neck.  When she lifted her hips, trying to get more friction from his hand, he removed it immediately, sliding it under her blouse to tease her nipple, which he lightly grazed with the palm of his hand until it stiffened, then he moved to the other one.

     Willow was panting and gasped, “Angel…p-please make love to me.  Please.”

     Angel stopped everything he was doing and released her hands, smiling triumphantly.  Looking into her eyes, he said, “Certainly.  You’d better hurry and take off your clothes, then.”

     Willow couldn’t move fast enough, she shoved her jeans down to her knees and while she finished pushing them and her socks off with her feet, she pulled her top over her head and flung the hand it wouldn’t release until the blouse sailed across the room.  Free of her clothes, she threw her arms around Angel and kissed him with abandon, thrusting her pelvis at his.

     Angel gave a low, husky chuckle and rolled them to the center of the bed.  He was so delighted with Willow for asking nicely, instead of getting into a clash of wills, that rewarding her with an orgasm was his first priority.  Kissing her gently, he slid a hand to the inside of her thigh and ran it up to her center, not pausing to tease.  She was so wet already.  He slid in two fingers and moved them in and out rapidly as he continued the kiss, his tongue began to thrust into her mouth in sync with his fingers.  When she cried out and began to match the rhythm of his fingers with her hips, he pressed his thumb to her swollen clit.

     Willow was gasping for air, “Ohhhh!  God!  That’s sooo good.  Harder!”  Her hands tangled in the sheets and she grasped them tightly as he complied.  The increased pace of his fingers was heaven.  With one last thrust of her hips, she came, calling out his name and rode out the wave with a series of grunts.  “Ohhh.  Ohh.  Oh.  Mmmnn,” she said as her body came back to earth, feeling like a floating feather landing.

     Angel rolled on top of her and smoothed her tousled hair from her face.  Looking fixedly into her eyes, he entered her swiftly, arms braced at her sides supporting his weight.  He wanted her so badly after such a prolonged wait and began to drive into her mercilessly.  Throwing his head back he growled loudly, loving how hot and tight and wet she was.  This was the first time making love to her that he wasn’t holding back, and it was incredible.  Not worrying about her human frailties freed him to let go.

     Willow moaned and grabbed his ass with both hands, lifting her knees higher, giving him as much access as she could.  Previously, Angel had been a phenomenal lover, exceeding even her wildest fantasies.  But, this was beyond anything she’d ever felt.  It was intense and animalistic and fantastic.  All she could do was hold on, moan and cry out.

     Angel continued to pound into her, never wanting to stop.  God!  It felt so damned good.  But, as she came and her muscles clinched around his cock with their new strength, he gave in, sinking his fangs into her neck, coming in jerking spasms and shouting her name.

     Angel continued to drink as his body settled back down, allowing himself more of her blood than he ever had before.  Delicious.  They were both vibrating from the loud purrs emanating from his chest.  Willow had wrapped her legs tightly around his hips, forcing him to stay inside her; she was sighing and mewling with contentment.  As he licked her wound clean, he said, “Mine,” with a possessiveness and finality that sent a thrill of euphoria through Willow’s entire being.

     They stayed in that position for quite some time in silence, just relishing the feeling.  Willow glided her fingertips up and down his back absently, and he continued to lick her neck.  In the easy intimacy they were sharing and perfection of the moment, Willow realized exactly what she wanted to happen next in their life together.  “Angel?”

     “Hmm?”  His voice was muffled as he continued to taste her.
 

     “Angel, look at me.”
     He pulled back to look down at her, intrigued by the excited sparkle in her eyes.

     When she was sure she had his full attention, she asked, “Will you marry me?”

     The lump in his throat prevented him from answering immediately.  When he could, he choked out, “Yes.  Yes, I would *love* to marry you.”

     The depth of his love for her was in his eyes as he looked at her.

     “Oh!” She cried as she took his face in her hands and kissed him deeply.  Reluctantly she pulled back from the kiss, “I love you so much,” she whispered.

     Angel was so overcome, he had trouble speaking.  He cleared his throat.  Stroking her cheek tenderly, he said softly, “All those lonely months, when I didn’t know if you’d ever wake up…I decided that if you did, if I was blessed enough to get you back, I’d propose to you.”

     “I desperately wanted to make a commitment, proclaiming our love, in front of the whole world.  If you had said yes, I’d have done whatever you wanted, a ceremony uniting us forever…Wiccan, Jewish, civil…anything you’d agree to.  In anticipation, I bought you something.”  He smiled shyly at her before he reached over to the nightstand to fumble in a wooden box.  He pulled out a small, black velvet box, which he handed to her.

     Willow’s heart pounded as she opened the box.  “Oh Angel!”  She said, with tears in her eyes, as she looked at the most beautiful ring she’d ever seen.  It was a square cut diamond, in an intricate gold setting and looked very old.  “It’s exquisite.”

     “Just like you.” he said huskily.  Removing the ring from the box, he put it on her finger and kissed it.  “It’s two carats, from the 20’s…uh, *that’s* 1920’s.  I’ve always  loved the style of jewelry from that era.  I’d understand if you wanted something different…you *are* the one who has to wear it.

     Willow shook her head and admired her engagement ring.  “It couldn’t be more perfect, I love it.”

     Angel grinned from ear to ear, he felt giddy.  Willow had proposed *to him*…proof positive that although they were unconventional in many ways, she wanted the same thing as him:  to take vows in the time honored tradition in front of their loved ones.  In spite of his age and experience, it was very important to him to do things properly.  Jadedness had not altered his old fashioned view that when you’re lucky enough to find *the one*, you get married and live happily ever after.  He was a hopeless romantic, and evidently, his beloved was, too.

     Willow was still admiring her engagement ring, which delighted him to no end.  He’d meant it when he said they could get another one if it wasn’t to her taste, but he had searched high and low for the perfect ring and would’ve been disappointed if this hadn’t been it.

     Now that they were officially affianced, Angel couldn’t wait to start making plans.  He was still buried deeply inside of Willow and knew neither of them could resist their natural urges if he stayed there.  Gently pulling out, he enjoyed her breathy little gasp.  “Sorry love,” he kissed her forehead as he rearranged them so that he was lying on his side, cuddled next to her, one leg snugly tucked beneath both of hers, his head propped on one hand so he could have a clear view of her face.

     Willow sighed, “This is cozy,” and smiled up at him adoringly.  “I’m so happy right now that I wish I could bottle this feeling.”

     Angel was still grinning; he couldn’t stop if he wanted to.  “Me, too,” he said, softly kissed her lips then took her left hand and placed a reverent kiss on the finger that wore *his ring*.  “Willow, I promise to spend eternity making sure you never, for one moment, regret doing me the honor of becoming my wife.”

     He gazed deeply into her eyes as he made that vow.  The sincerity in those beautiful brown eyes, along with the silly grin on his face, were they sweetest thing she had ever seen.  Incongruous, but effective.  Willow had to swallow a couple of times before she could speak.  Bringing their still entwined hands to her lips, she tenderly kissed the back of his and said with eyes shiny with tears, “I promise to always be a wife deserving of that vow.”

     They stared at each other for a long interval, letting the words and feelings wash over them…memorizing them.

     Angel nestled closer to her, held their clasped hands to his heart, and, breaking the silence, said, “Tell me about our wedding.”

     Willow got a dreamy look on her face and they spent the next several hours excitedly talking about dates, engagement parties, bridal showers, flowers, tuxedoes, taffeta, white lace dresses and every single thing that would make their wedding unforgettable and perfect.

     They didn’t know what the future held, but they had each other and their love was strong enough to overcome any obstacles fate placed in front of them.

~Epilogue~

     Willow studied her reflection as she sat at her vanity table brushing her hair.  It was strange and wonderful to stay the same physically as decades passed and inevitable change affected the world around you.  She had learned a long time ago how important it was to stay abreast of…well, *everything*.  Losing touch with the ever evolving world around you was a risk immortals faced, it led to stagnation and unhappiness. Nothing stayed the same…“out with the old, in with the new” was a constant.  Buildings came down, architecture changed, fashions came and went, and governments rose and fell.  She’d witnessed a century of “progress”.  Some things thrilled her:  new technology was always exciting, so she had no trouble adapting and keeping up with that.  Medical advancements brought longer life spans and better quality of life as people aged.  She was particularly grateful for that one.  Losing loved ones never got easier, but it was reality.  Of course, the alternative was unthinkable, so heartache was the price you paid for loving people; the rewards far outweighed the consequences.  She and Angel were as head over heels for each other as they had ever been, but their lives were constantly enriched by being surrounded by those they cared about.  Their pseudo family had kept them connected to the world around them and made fighting the good fight year after year imperative when battling evil over and over might have become too discouraging to continue.  Demons kept coming, new apocalypses threatened, but protecting family and friends remained a priority.  Laxity would’ve been a temptation, at times, if the lives in danger had been nameless and faceless.  Not that strangers weren’t worth protecting, of course they were:  Remaining ever vigilant was easier, though, when you had a personal stake in humanity.

     Willow sighed as she continued to ponder events of her long life.  She hadn’t even kept track of how many times she’d graduated from UCLA.  Continuing education was a joy for her and the college kids kept her young at heart.  Early on, she’d realized eternity was an expensive luxury, so she’d dedicated herself to learning about finance, first thing.  Her adeptness at investing assured they’d always be financially secure.  Money wasn’t everything, but it kept choices and options opened and made life a lot easier.

     Angels unconditional love and support gave her the confidence to spread her wings and test new waters in the early years when her confidence was lacking.  Without him she would’ve been intimidated and cowed by the vastness of new possibilities.  Her parents had never been supportive.  Being adored and encouraged had been new ground for her.  The world became all about infinite possibilities.  Her magic had thrived and she blossomed and became a stronger witch than she’d ever imagined she could be.
 

     Gentle hands on her shoulders brought her out of her reverie.  Willow never got used to Angel’s lack of reflection.  “Angel, I think you *like* sneaking up on me like that!”

     “I made noise, honest!  I’ve been here for awhile, admiring you.  You look particularly beautiful tonight, that dress is stunning.”  Willow stood up and modeled her outfit for him.  It was a clingy, black, sleeveless, silk dress, with a high neck and hem that ended just above the knee.  It was daringly backless and looked very sexy with her strappy, high heeled black sandals.  The outfit’s combination of the ladylike and seductive was irresistible to the dual natured vampire.  The way he looked at her made her tummy flutter.

     Since Willow looked good enough to eat, Angel now had new plans in mind for the evening.  He stood behind Willow and lightly laid his hand on her lower abdomen.  He ran his other hand along her neck, moving her lustrous hair over her shoulder.  He relished the feel of the silken tresses on the top of his hand as much as his fingertips did her body, as they slid across her collar bone, then down to her breast, ribcage and abdomen.  Once he reached the end of her hair, the hand moved again to her back.  The tactile sensation made Willow shiver.  The controlling, deliberate actions of her lover told her she was being seduced by the demon *and* man within him.  She knew the rules of this game and forced herself to stand perfectly still, even though every inch of her tingled with sexual anticipation.  There was something particularly enticing about feeling him, but not being able to see him.  The hand on her stomach felt like a firebrand to every nerve ending it touched.  His knuckles began a torturously slow ascent at the base of her spine causing tremors as they slid along every vertebrae in their path.  Willow’s willpower was being sorely tested…as it was meant to be.  She was so wet and wanting she couldn’t think straight, all she could do was feel…and be in awe of his ability to excite her so much with so little effort.  When his knuckles reached the nape of her neck, he spread his fingers and burrowed them into her hair, tenderly turning her head to the side.  Purring caused his tongue to vibrate as it began to trace her ear.

     Willow’s resulting gasp told Angel her surrender was near.  Once her resistance was breached, she’d turn the tables and take command, forcing his submission to her will.  His erection was painfully hard in ecstatic anticipation.  His demon passionately craved the intense, erotic satisfaction Willow’s dominance brought him.

     Willow knew exactly what he wanted, but was determined to make him wait.  She forced herself to be patient.  Taking a deep breath, she made herself relax and just enjoy everything he was doing to her, without pushing him to pick up the pace.  God, he sure knew what he was doing.  The hands on her stomach and in her hair began to knead sensuously.  “Mmmm,” she murmured as her hips swayed, but she stood her ground.

     Angel growled, then chuckled.  He could smell her desire, hear her heart pound, even feel the blood pulse excitedly through her.  She was resisting, but it was costing her.  He pressed his throbbing erection against her bottom, eliciting moans from both of them.

     Still, Willow remained a passive participant.  Ha!  The vixen!  She thinks we’re playing *her* game instead of mine.  I wrote the fucking book on seduction, he crowed to himself.  Angel’s deft fingers found the zipper on the side of the dress and slid it down.  He sucked her earlobe into his mouth, worrying it with his tongue as his hand snaked into the dress.  “Good girl, no panties,” he whispered huskily.  He cupped her mound and pressed her more firmly against him…making damned sure to separate his fingers, so she got no clitoral stimulation.

     Willow’s resolve remained firm, even as her breathing became labored.  She didn’t consider noises surrender, as she released moans in time with the humming of her body.  She felt ridges rise on his forehead as he nibbled and sucked along the column of her neck.  Her body quivered and she locked her knees to remain upright.  The hand in her hair skimmed along her neck and shoulder taking the dress with it.  “Nnnnnmmmm,” she gasped as the hand continued down her arm, baring her painfully hard nipples to the cool air and trapping her hands at her sides at the same time.  Somewhere in her lust addled mind she knew he was reaching his limits.  His hips were rotating and bouncing against her ass.  Willow allowed herself to cry out as his fingertips grazed an aching nipple…back and forth, they strummed, driving her crazy.  He was going to come if something didn’t give soon.  She wouldn’t take control *or* beg.  She did tighten her vaginal muscles…at this rate, she might climax from the teasing alone.  Both their bodies were shaking with need.

     As a last ditch effort to breakdown her defenses before he came in his pants, Angel harshly twisted the nipple he’d been playing with so delicately.  Willow’s body stiffened at the abrupt change in tactics and she orgasmed hard, with loud, unintelligible words flowing out of her mouth.

     “Dammit woman!”  In one fell swoop Angel pulled the dress to the floor and bent her over the back of a chair, forcing her legs apart with his foot.  Quickly, he freed himself from his pants.  Grabbing her hips, he entered her tight, wet heat from behind and pounded into her mercilessly.  Her muscles contracted with another climax, triggering his release.  It felt so good, it hurt.  He grunted fiercely, continuing to thrust until his balls were empty.  Spent, he collapsed on top of her.

     Neither of them were able to move.  After an extended silence, some fog shrouded part of Angel’s brain realized Willow had spoken.  “What was that, sweetheart?”

     “I *said*,” Willow wiggled to let him know she wanted up, “That was a fun game, wanna play again?”

     Angel let out a bark of laughter as he moved off of her.  The cocky little smartass!  “Willow darlin’, you are one of a kind.”

     Willow stretched and stood up straight, smiling smugly in response to his compliment.  She was perfectly aware of the effect she had on him with her mussed hair, bruised hips and naked body, still wearing her ‘come fuck me’ shoes.

     Their sex life had reached new heights with Willow’s increased strength and resilience.  Since hurting or damaging her weren’t the risks they once were, Angel and his demon were in a sexual heaven that surpassed their wildest dreams.  Watching her hungrily, Angel unconsciously stroked his recently resurrected hard-on.

     Since Angel continued to just stand there watching her, without making a move towards her or the bed, Willow took matters into her own hands.  Coyly, she said, “Oops, we’re going to be late for our dinner reservation if we don’t hurry.”  Provocatively, she walked over to her discarded dress and with her back to a transfixed Angel, bent at the waist to pick it up.

     Smirking, Angel said, “Who do you think you’re fooling, little girl?  Prancing around naked, in high heels, wiggling your luscious ass at me.  You want me bad.”

     Angel swaggered towards her confidently as she stood with her dress over her arm.  Looking at him thoughtfully, she replied, “Nope, I don’t think so.  Besides, you’re the one who made the reservation.”  Willow laid the dress over a chair and sat back down at her vanity table to tidy her hair.  “I wouldn’t dream of spoiling your plans for a romantic evening out *and* I’m only naked because you’re a horny vampire who can’t keep your hands off of me.”

     Disbelievingly, Angel snorted.  As Willow finished re-brushing her hair and began to freshen her make-up, he began to have doubts.  “Oh,” he said, pouting like a disappointed child.

     Willow wasn’t facing Angel, but knew he was pouting,  by his pitiful little utterance.  He was irresistible to her when he did that.  Turning to face him, crossing her legs prettily, she said, “Of course, an evening in, with you, is always nice.”  She smiled seductively, “It’s up to you.”

     Angel grinned, delighted to get his way, but had to make sure.  He crossed his arms, feeling benevolent now that the ball was back in his court.  “You won’t be disappointed if we don’t spend a night on the town celebrating the big event?”

     Willow thought Angel had never looked sexier.  He stood there in his dress shirt, tie and slacks, all slightly askew from their recent romp.  She’d like nothing better than to spend the rest of the night letting him show her, for the zillionth time, that he was just as sexy as he looked.

     She slowly rose and walked towards him.  He watched her expectantly as she ran her hands up his arms and began to massage his shoulders.  Willow smiled saucily and said, “Well, lover, tomorrow night the hotel will be full, everyone will be here, this is our last night alone for a week…and you *know* there will be no shortage of celebrating.  They won’t let our 100th wedding anniversary pass without a lot of festive chaos.”

     Angel sighed and took his beautiful wife in his arms.   Resting his head on hers, he idly traced her bare back with his hands.  He looked at their wedding picture, prominently displayed on the dresser.  The night they got married had been glorious.  He smiled with tears in his eyes, looking at the photo; Willow looked like a goddess, adorned in traditional white lace, and he was grinning like an idiot.  They were surrounded by the best friends anyone could ask for:  Wesley, Gunn, Cordelia, Buffy, Xander and Giles were clearly sharing every bit of joy he and Willow felt that night.  They were all gone now, but had left them a priceless legacy of love:  their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great great-grandchildren.

     Willow hugged her husband tighter, feeling his tears on her head.  She knew what he was thinking about and feeling.  “Angel, my love, don’t think about the losses.  Think about Buffy’s happiness the day she found out she was pregnant and discovered it released her from her duties and called the next Slayer.  Think about the day Xander welcomed his first grandchild into the world.  Remember how thrilled and honored Giles was when the Watchers Council asked him to restructure it and lead the new Order.  Our dearest friends led rich, full lives and gave us umpteen nieces and nephews to cherish and adore.  Even though we’ve mourned the loss of some of the children…they remain the gift that keeps on giving.  Our lost loved ones live on in them.  We’re blessed with an enormous family.”  Willow had tears in her eyes now.  She pulled back and took Angel’s face in her hands.  “In honor of our centennial, the next week will be full of love, laughter, hugs, kisses and precious, crying babies.  Tonight’s for us.  Let’s spend it showing each other what we have to look forward to for the *next* hundred years.

     Angel had a lump in his throat and couldn’t speak.  He loved this woman with all of his heart, and she enchanted him every single day of their life together.  Nodding his head, he buried his hands in her magnificent red hair and gave her a kiss that made her head spin.

The End

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