Let the Music Be Your Master

E-mail- curiouser@accessus.net

Rating- NC-17

Pairing- W/A mentions of X/C, W/O, B/A

Summary- During a research session, Angel waxes philosophical to himself about his companions and finds that there is more to the redheaded hacker than he previously thought.

Spoilers- Nothing specific but up through season 3 , brief mention of VampWillow, Angel's back from Hell.

Distribution- I'd be honored if anyone wants it.  Just keep me name on it and let me know where it is.

Disclaimer- Not mine, wish they were.  If they were Willow would've been with Angel a long time ago.  Seriously the characters belong to Joss.  The songs belong to Led Zeppelin.

Authors note- This is my first ever BTVS fic.  Let me know what you think.

This is dedicated to all those wonderful writers who have inspired me, particularly to Teri Leigh, whose story "Salvation" made me the shipper I am today. <g>

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Its research time again. The Slayerettes are all hard at work getting the info on the latest “big bad.” This time we’re gathered at Giles’ apartment, the volumes in his personal collection are more than sufficient for the task at hand and it’s safer and homier than the library.

I peer over the book I’m paging through, knowing full well that it is not going to yield the information I seek. I’m merely using it as an excuse to watch the people around me. Since my return from Hell I am even more of an outsider than before. I am being tolerated because I can be useful and because Willow stood up for me again. She is the only one who treats as though nothing has changed.

Buffy is whittling stakes with Xander at the kitchen table; prattling on about nothing important – something about another outfit she ruined while patrolling. Xander watches her adoringly. Even though he’s dating Cordelia, his heart belongs to the slayer.

Giles simply shakes his head. He opens his mouth as if to speak, but thinks better of it, knowing that his slayer won’t listen anyway and that it will only prolong her whining.

Cordelia sits in the recliner with a book in her lap. She’s trying to feign interest in her research but is distracted by the two in the kitchen. She plays aloof and makes a cutting comment about Buffy’s wardrobe to cover the hurt she feels at her boyfriend’s interest in the blonde.

Oz gave up any pretense of researching over an hour ago. He is on the floor immersing himself – and the rest of us – in the wonders of Giles’ record collection. Occasionally he glances at Willow but things seem strained between the witch and the werewolf.

The hacker is seated on the floor with her back to the couch, her laptop on the coffee table. She nibbles her bottom lip in concentration as her fingers fly over the keyboard. She pauses occasionally to join the conversation. Her searches have proved futile so far and it’s beginning to worry her.

I drop my gaze back to the book in my lap lost in thoughts of the people surrounding me. I often watch, it comes naturally after decades of staying in the shadows. The interaction of the Slayerettes fascinates me. They each have an assigned role. I feel like a voyeur as I watch them play their parts. I wonder how well they really know each other; and how well they know themselves.

My attention is drawn to each of them in turn. Buffy, always clamoring to be the center of attention – she enjoys being the Chosen One, in spite of all her grumbling to the contrary. Unfortunately, she is under the impression that her status should carry over into all aspects of her life. To quote Cordelia, “Self involved much?”

Cordelia is all prickly on the outside but truly sensitive and caring on the inside. Years of neglect by her parents has made her afraid to open up. She’s fiercely loyal and uncompromisingly honest. If she ever grows out of her “me” phase and her obsession with popularity she’ll become a truly fine person. But for now, she plays her part – Bitchy Queen C – even with Xander.

I wonder what the two of them talk about, or is it all hormones? I tend to be as rough on Xander as he is on me. But I know that he is a good friend to the rest of the group. He is loyal and caring and can be incredibly insightful for someone who acts so moronic. He plays the fool to lower people’s expectations of him. The boy is a study in conflicts. His parents are abusive so he has become extremely loving and loyal to the Scoobies – his adopted family. He plays the clown to cover his inadequacies. He doesn’t realize that his personality is his strength. Although I’d never admit that to anyone. He is still possibly the most annoying person I know.

I catch Xander watching Oz as Oz watches Willow. He is fiercely protective of the redhead, we all are. He approves of Oz because Oz is safe. He treats Willow like a china doll. The werewolf is really apart from the gang. He does his own thing and his only real loyalty is to Willow. She has him wrapped around her little finger and doesn’t even realize it.

Oz watches her out of the corner of his eye, his expression unreadable as always while he discusses the merits of Led Zeppelin with Giles.Willow doesn’t seem to notice him at all.

Giles is grumbling about the mess that Xander is making in the kitchen, but there is a twinkle in his eyes. He loves his young charges and enjoys the hours they spend together.

Oz changes the music yet again. Now we’re listening to the Led Zeppelin, the focus of his discussion with the watcher. Several examples are played and as Robert Plant belts out “The Immigrant Song” I’m jolted out of my reverie by the nearby scent of arousal. I can’t imagine what I’ve missed. It’s faint and familiar. I realize to my surprise that it’s Willow. She’s the closest in proximity to me, sitting on the floor to my left. Her head is close enough to rest on my knee.

This is a puzzle. She’s no where near Oz, or Xander, for that matter and as I look at the screen of the laptop I see nothing there to provoke any reaction of that sort. I listen to the conversation – demons, clothes, Twinkies and classic rock – nothing out of the ordinary.

I sense the acceleration of her heartbeat and her agitation. Through the pounding beat of “Kashmir” the scent grows stronger and by the time Robert Plant is belting out “Black Dog” she’s driving me crazy. Her intense physical reaction to the music intrigues me. The lyrics of “Houses of the Holy” cut through the lust induced haze now clouding my mind. “Let the music be your master, will you heed the master’s call?”

At this moment I want nothing more than to pull Willow up onto the couch and have my way with her. Her heartbeat and the scent of her arousal are just about all I can think about. I’ve always been attracted to the hacker; she has a timeless beauty that will only intensify as she matures.

My reverie is temporarily broken as she shifts uncomfortably on the floor. She looks at the screen of the laptop once again and mutters under her breath, “Bored now.” I’m shocked at how much like her vampire double she sounds. She stands up and stretches like a cat.

“I want ice cream.” She announces to no one in particular. Grabbing a newly whittled stake and a vial of holy water, she walks out the door.

I pause for a moment – I know she shouldn’t be out there alone but I expect Oz to go after her. The redhead’s departure seems to have gone unnoticed by the rest of the gang. When no one makes a move to follow Willow I stand up, hoping my erection isn’t too noticeable. “It’s not safe out there. I’m going after her.” <Especially since she’s broadcasting pheromones to every demon in a twenty mile radius.> I think to myself.

I wonder vaguely why no one seems to have taken any notice of the hacker’s actions. Not even Oz or Xander, who are usually overprotective of the girl. No one argues or even comments, so I grab my jacket and head out into the night.

She’s walking fast and her body language is determined, but I catch up to her easily. She’s muttering to herself. I can’t make out the words but I can tell she’s angry.

“Willow , you know it’s not safe out her. Why did you leave alone?”

“I needed to get away.” She answers sharply. “Besides – you notice no one tried to stop me.” She continues walking, her chin raised defiantly, looking straight ahead.

It is Willow who has the most difficult role to play. Her friends have defined her alternately by her usefulness and by her perceived weakness. But there is so much more to the shy redhead. They have placed her in a box that they don’t allow her to leave. Each sees her as they wish her to be, not as she really is. Beneath the shy exterior is an intelligence and strength that belie her youth.

I can sense that she’s trying to get both her emotions and her arousal under control. She’s succeeding quite well until a car passes with its stereo blaring “Whole Lotta Love” She stops and draws a deep breath as her arousal surges forth anew.

I’ve always known that deep down there was a passion and fire to the young witch that none of her friends can fathom. She looks slightly embarrassed; she knows I've caught her scent. I smile and lean in close.

“Let the music be your master. Will you heed the master’s call?” I sing softly in her ear.

She turns to me, and our lips are almost touching, shock is evident in her eyes. Before either of us can come to our senses, I guide her into a nearby alley. I stop in the shadows and she looks at me questioningly remaining silent. I lean in and press my lips to hers, pulling her into a passionate embrace. I snake my tongue out and lick her lips, she opens them for me and returns the kiss with equal passion.

She’s rubbing against me so deliciously, I’m not sure I can maintain control. My demon wants to take her right here in this alley. I pull away so that she can breathe and look into the depths of her beautiful green eyes, not entirely sure what I’ll find there. Her pupils are dilated and her eyes are darkened with lust. As they begin to clear, I sense a flash of longing that is quickly replaced by horror and then embarrassment.

“Willow ?” I whisper tentatively.

She looks deeply into my eyes; her gaze bores through to my very soul. I’m still holding her tightly, the evidence of my desire still pressed into her stomach.

“Ice cream?” I whisper.

Our gazes lock for what seems like an eternity. She finally breaks the stare but not the embrace. In fact, she snuggles up fractionally closer.

“Better than ice cream.” She replies.

I smile above her head as I continue to hold her close, hoping that the insanity of the moment won’t adversely affect our friendship. Before the spell is broken she draws back slightly and looks up at me.

“So what’s your call?” she whispers huskily.

Her boldness surprises me and my demon rejoices. But only for a moment, someone has to be reasonable and in control.

“We’ll be expected back soon.”

She ponders this for a moment, remaining silent.

“Ice cream?” I repeat.

She hesitates, “I suppose.” Her face darkens.

“What’s wrong, Willow?” I panic and start to babble. “I know I shouldn’t have kissed you…” My self recrimination is interrupted a soft finger to my lips.

“Don’t be sorry, I’m not.”

I’m stunned, I’m sure that my mouth is open.

“I’m as much or more at fault here. I should be worried about Buffy, instead of in an alley trying to figure out how to get away with jumping my best friend’s ex.”

I’m shocked by her candor. I start to protest and she again stops me. “I don’t want this to stop; I’ve wanted you for far too long to stop now.” Her voice is husky with desire and I think for a fleeting moment that she may be possessed. I lean down and again capture her lips with my own. Her kisses hint at the passionate lover that lurks beneath that shy, innocent exterior.

We pull apart so she can catch her breath. “I don’t want to stop either. I’ve wanted you since the first time I saw you.”

That admission stops her and she abruptly returns to reality.

“But Buffy…”

Now it’s my turn to stop her. “Buffy was an obsession. Part of me will always love her, but I’m not in love with her.” I pause as the truth finally hits me. “I’m not sure I ever was.”

“Oh, Angel!” She looks confused. “That’s not true. You and Buffy were meant to be. It was obvious to anyone who saw you together. Hello! Soul mates! Forever, passion…”

She’s starting a marathon ramble and I do the only thing I can think of to stop her. I pull her close and kiss her; hard and passionately. She melts into the embrace and returns the kiss with equal fervor. Her hand is on my chest caressing me through my silk shirt. Her touch is like fire. We pull apart slightly.

“Willow , you are beautiful inside and out. I’ve always been attracted to you even more so once I got to know you. You have always accepted me and called me friend in spite of what I did. You are the only one that has stood up for me since I came back, the only one that has treated me like a person and not a monster.” I look deep into her eyes. “You gave me back my soul, forever.”

“Don’t confuse gratitude with affection, Angel.”

I think about this for a moment. Part of me is hurt that she would think this of me, yet I know that I was a self obsessed bastard when I was mooning over Buffy and that Willow is protecting herself.

“I am grateful, of course. But I had feelings for you before I had a reason to be grateful.”

She turns away, pondering this revelation. Completely in tune with each other we begin walking toward the ice cream shop. A super scoop of peanut butter and chocolate has lightened the mood a bit. However she remains quiet as we head back to Giles’.

“So what now?” she asks quietly.

Even with my enhanced hearing I almost miss her question. I stop and turn to face her. “I really don’t know, Willow. I want you and I’m willing to wait as long as it takes for this to be right. I don’t want to lose your friendship and I’m willing to take whatever you will give me.”

Her green orbs glisten with unshed tears. “I never realized…”she falters.

We are so deep in our conversation that we failed to notice that we were being followed by a vampire couple.

“Isn’t this sweet? Lovers out for a midnight snack.” The male comments in saccharine tones.

“A coincidence my love, since we’re also looking for a snack.” The female responds menacingly. “They look well together, don’t they?” she continues. “I wonder if their families will allow them to be buried side by side?”

I feel Willow tense at my side. She takes my hand and pulls it with hers to her jacket pocket. At first I don’t realize why she’s doing this. She shouldn’t be scared I can handle these two. Besides, I have the element of surprise. She guides my hand to the stake concealed there. I squeeze her hand reassuringly and turn to the couple.

“I don’t think we need to worry about being buried anytime soon.” I remark calmly. “I have more enjoyable pursuits on my mind right now.” I’m pleased to see Willow blush a bit at that comment.

The male sneers at me; overly confident. “There are no guarantees for tomorrow my friend.” He lunges toward me. I block his attack easily. He hasn’t seen the stake that is now hidden in my sleeve. We trade punches for a few minutes; he is strong but lacks technique. Out of the corner of my eye, I notice the female making a move toward Willow. I slide the stake out of my sleeve to finish off the male.

“Watch out!” the female screams as I drive the stake home. As her lover turns to dust, I see that she has Willow by the throat.

In the blink of an eye, my demon emerges. “You will let her go now.” I state evenly through clenched fangs.

The vampiress tightens her grip on my beautiful redhead. “You killed my lover, now your must die.”

“I said Let.Her.Go. Do you have any idea with whom you are dealing?” I pause for effect, hoping that my posturing won’t get Willow killed. “The girl is mine; do not make me say this again.”

In her fury she flings Willow against the wall of the nearby building. “Who do you think you are? There is no mark of claim on the girl. How dare you order me around! I have walked the night for over seventy years. I will not put up with your impertinence any longer.”

“Oh please! You sound like something out of a cheap horror romance novel.”

“How dare you mock me!”

“Silence!” I roar, allowing the full power of my demon to the fore. “Surely one as young as you has heard of the Scourge of Europe?”

“Angelus” she murmurs.

“I thought you’d like to know who you’re dealing with.” I grab her wrist and twist it hard. “Just a word of advice, not that it will do you any good since you’ll be dust in a minute, but anyway. Never piss off a master vampire.” The stake found its mark and the vampires was dust before the sound of my words faded.

I flew to where Willow lay crumpled on the sidewalk. Kneeling gently beside her I gather her still form in my arms.

“Willow , love, please…” I cannot finish, she begins to stir.

“Angel?”

“Yes love, I’m here.”

She is stunned and bruised but not badly hurt.

“Do you think you can walk?”

“Yeah, I’m just a little dizzy,” she giggles as she wobbles a bit. “Or should I say dizzier than usual.”

I put my arm around her waist to steady her as we resume our walk. A few more steps towards Giles’ apartment and she stops suddenly.

“I don’t want to go back to the apartment. The gang will just fuss and fire a million questions at us. With everything that’s been going on, I’m just not in the mood.”

“I agree. I’ll walk you home so your parents won’t worry.”

Willow just snorted. “It’s hard for them to be too worried since they’re at a conference in Japan.” Her face darkened. “They won’t be home for another two weeks.” 

“You shouldn’t be alone with that bump on your head. Come stay at the mansion with me.”

“Oh Angel, I couldn’t impose on you like that.” She looks worried and it matches the tone of her voice.

“At least for tonight, Willow. I don’t want you to be alone.” <Ever> I add to myself. 

She starts to protest. “I’m used to being alone, Angel. I can take care of myself.”

I cast a sidelong glance her way. Trying to conceal a grin, I play my ace. “If you don’t stay with me, you’ll have to stay with one of the others. Buffy or Oz or Giles or Xander.”

“Okay, okay. Since you put it that way.” She smiles. “I need to stop at my house for some clothes and stuff.”

The walk back to Willow’s house continues in silence. I wrap my arm around her shoulder and enjoy the nearness of her. We reach her house and she shrugs out of my casual embrace as we approach her front door.

“I’ll wait here.”

“You’ll do no such thing! You are always welcome in my home.” She opens the door and says quietly, “Come in Angel.”

I am so touched by her trust and friendship. I realize at that moment that I would do anything to keep her safe and happy.

“I’ll just be a minute.” She bounds up the stairs and out of sight.

I take this opportunity to call Giles.

“Hello.”

“Giles, its Angel.”

“Great Heavens, man what’s happened!?! Is Willow all right? Where are you?”

I sigh inwardly, now I know why she didn’t want to go back.

“Slow down Giles. She’s fine. We were ambushed by a couple of vamps on the way back.Willow got a bit shaken up in the struggle. I brought her home so she can rest.”

“I’ll send one of the children over to look after her.”

“That won’t be necessary Rupert. She’s resting. They’ll just bombard her with questions. She can deal with that tomorrow after she’s gotten some sleep.”

“You’re sure she’s alright?”

“Of course Rupert. I’d never let anything happen to her.” <I’d give my life to protect her.> I add silently to myself.

At that moment the subject of our conversation comes bouncing down the stairs. I hold up my hand to keep her from speaking.

“Yes, Rupert. I’ll leave a note for her. She’ll come by tomorrow to pick up her computer.” I’m starting to get impatient with the Watcher. I appreciate his concern for Willow but I can take care of her. <In fact I know just what she needs.> I think to myself.

“I know she appreciates your concern…Yes, I’m sure she’ll be fine…I’ll see you tomorrow evening to…Goodnight Rupert.”

Finally, I hang up the phone. As I turn around, Willow envelopes me in a forceful hug.

“Thank you, Angel! I am so not in the mood to deal with the gang right now.” She lets go, gesturing to her bag. “I’m ready whenever you are.”

 I pick up the bag and head out the door. Willow follows, locking up behind her. As we start toward Crawford Street she says softly, “Thanks again Angel. I really didn’t want to be alone, but I couldn’t stand the thought of dealing with them.”

“They’re your friends, Willow , they care about you.”

“I know, but they all act like I can’t take care of myself. Like I’m helpless…” she trails off. “And maybe they’re right, but I hate it.”

“You’re better in a fight than Xander.” I relax as she laughs. Tonight you were prepared. You had holy water and a stake. I was unarmed. It was your quick thinking that helped stake those vamps.”

“You don’t have to try to make me feel better, Angel.”

“I’m just stating facts.”

We reach the mansion and she follows me inside. A feeling of awkwardness halts the conversation.

“I’ll get a fire started.”

I do just that as she wanders around the room. She stops at the stereo and browses the CD’s.

I walk up behind her and looking over her shoulder, I ask mischievously, “S o what kind of music do you like, Willow ? That is, besides Led Zeppelin.”

A blush spreads across her features as she turns to face me. “I like all kinds of music.”

I admit I’m impressed. She’s not backing down or stammering. For a brief moment I think that this could mean trouble.

“Different music for different occasions, different moods.”

“For example?”

“Xander listens to country music when he’s depressed. He calls it the “music of pain.””

“What about you?”

“Well. I’m not a big country fan. I like Johnny Cash, he’s just so cool. That whole ‘Man in Black’ thing. Hey, you’ve got that going on too. And Patsy Cline was just awesome. ‘Course neither of them sound really country, you know, twangy like. And Riders in the Sky have that incredible cowboy harmony…”

I jump in as she pauses to breathe. “That’s not what I meant. You’re avoiding the question.” I smile at her.

“What was the question?” she asks almost meekly.

“We were talking about different music for different moods. But to really get to the point, why does Led Zeppelin have such a …” I pause searching for the best way to phrase my question.

“Damn vampires with their super vamp sense.” She mutters under her breath before turning to face me.

Again she surprises me, looking me straight in the eye. “You want to know why I have a physical reaction to the music.”

“Well that’s one way of describing it.” I chuckle.

She sighs. “I don’t really know. It’s like a primal force. The driving beat of the music, Robert Plant’s voice, but not just his voice because his solo work doesn’t do that to me. It’s the animalistic howling that almost sounds like someone in the throes of passion.” She turns red as a beet at this and continues quickly. “Not that I know anything about that, I mean…”she falters.

“I see what you’re getting at.”

“It’s not just Led Zeppelin either, some U2 songs do, you know that heavy breathing thing that Bono does, Ravel’s “Bolero”, Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue.”

I’ve been searching for something appropriate to play while she’s been taking. Oddly enough the Ravel CD is in my hand.

“Music is a powerful force, Willow .” I press play and the oft strains of Bolero can be heard. The flush returns to her skin as the music plays.

“That’s not fair.” She whispers.

“Who ever said I play fair?”

I walk over to her and reach out running my fingers through her shimmering hair. The firelight makes it almost glow like a halo.

“Music evokes memories and feelings. It symbolizes many different moods. It is diverse yet unifying.”

She looks at me, her gaze piercing me as I continue. “A piece of music can help us recall a fond memory each time it is heard.” I pull her close and whisper in her ear. “Let’s make a memory Willow .”

I lean down and kiss her, gently at first and she returns the kiss, deepening it. Our bodies are matching the rhythm of the music as we kiss and caress each other. Her touch on my skin is like fire and she is nearly devouring me with her passion. I want nothing more than to carry her to my bed and claim her for my own. But now is not the time for that. I know I need to take things slowly. For now we are making a memory.

We pull apart slightly so she can breathe. I look into her eyes and I see both love and lust there. As if she can read my mind she whispers softly, “Make me your Angel. Make me yours completely.”

I am stunned by the incredible gift that she is offering me. I know that I want this. I don’t think I’ve ever wanted anything more.

“ Willow , I want this so much.” I pause, not wanting to say the words but knowing I must. “But I need to know, are you sure? And what about Oz?” I hate to bring that up but I don’t want her to do something she’ll regret and I’m sure she’ll regret this.

“Oz and I aren’t together, we’re just friends. Didn’t you know?”

I shake my head. I wonder now if I really know Willow as well as I think I do.

“There was always something in the way with Oz and it put a strain on our relationship.”

“What was in the way?” I ask without thinking.

“I was in love with someone else.” Her eyes are shining with tears. “Someone I could never have.”

“Xander?”

She shakes her head. “You.”

If it hadn’t been for my enhanced hearing I wouldn’t have heard her, even as close as we are. I hold her close trying to convey my feelings through our embrace.

“You do have me, Willow . Body, heart and soul.”

“Make love with me Angel.”

Her quiet words are full of love, lust and longing. I take her by the hand and lead her to the bedroom. I swear I can practically feel my heart beat. If I were still mortal it would be thundering now. We are standing at the foot of the bed. I run my hands over her shoulders and through her hair, bringing her in for a tender kiss.

Soon the passion is rekindled and her hands are deftly unbuttoning my shirt. We break apart briefly to rid ourselves of my shirt and her sweater. I embrace her again and reach behind to unhook her lace bra. I gasp as her beauty is revealed to me.

“ Willow , you are so beautiful.” Words fail me. She begins to tremble, possibly from nerves, possibly from a chill. “Let me show you how much.” I finish undressing her and pick her up to lay her down on the bed. She tries to sit up as she reaches for my belt buckle. I stay her hand.

“Let me.”

I undress for her, warmed by the heat of her gaze. She again reaches out for me.

“No, love, let me love you.”

I crawl up on the bed and lie next to her. I lean in for a kiss and then work my way along her jaw line and down her throat, leaving a moistened trail with my tongue. I pause at the pulse point thinking for a moment what it would be like to taste her.

My fingers trail down her sides just barely brushing her breasts before playfully poking her navel. I run my hands back up to cup her breasts and my mouth begins to journey southward. I replace my hands with my mouth, wanting to taste every inch of her body.

As my hand brushes her auburn curls, I feel her tense at the touch. I pull myself up to look into her eyes. I can sense her fear and nervousness.

“ Willow , I would never hurt you or expect you to do anything that you weren’t comfortable with. If I do anything that you don’t like just say the word and I will stop.”

She returns my gaze, her eyes full of love.

“Angel, I trust you with my life. I’m yours body, heart and soul.” She pauses, grasping for the right words and struggling with her embarrassment. “I … um … well…”

“I know you’re a virgin, Willow .”

“It’s not just that, I’ve never …” she trails off again.

“It’s okay.”

“I’ve only ever kissed and not even that much.” Now she’s getting agitated.

“If the kissing we’ve done is any indication, dear, you’re a fast study.” I lower my voice as I begin to massage her thigh. “Relax and feel – don’t try to think. Just feel.”

I feel the tension easing away as I continue my ministrations.

“But thinking is what I do best.” She protests quietly.

“I beg to differ, my dear.” I chuckle before returning my attention to her hot center. I part her damp folds with my fingers and stroke her softly. She arches into my touch. Encouraged, I lean in replacing my fingers with my tongue. She begins to move slightly matching the rhythm of my tongue. I slowly insert one finger into her wet core. She rewards me with a low moan that is so erotic I think I might come just listening to her. I move my tongue to her clit and add another finger to her tight channel. This sends her over the edge. She clutches at the sheets, her knuckles white as she lets out a feral half-scream, half-moan of my name.

It takes all my willpower to not come. I move up to lie next to her as she comes down form her orgasm. Her face is flushed and covered in a fine sheen of perspiration. There is a look of absolute wonderment on her face.

I smile and lean down to kiss her, letting her taste herself on my lips. She still hasn’t spoken.

“ Willow ? Are you okay?”

She gasps and smiles. “That was incredible! It was everything I expected and yet nothing like I imagined.”

She even babbles in bed.

“I knew you’d be marvelous, I mean, right, you’ve had over 200 years to perfect your technique.”

That remark takes me completely by surprise. I can’t suppress the laughter that erupts. “I didn’t realize you’d put that much thought into me. I’m glad you approve.”

In spite of the blush that has crept across her features she answers smartly, “I most certainly do.”

I’m relieved that she’s so relaxed now. I kiss her again, gently at first but increasing the intensity. I roll so now I am over her, rubbing the tip of my erection over her entrance. I break the kiss and look deep into her eyes.

“Are you ready, my love?”

She is rubbing up against me seeking more friction. She looks at me and her eyes are darkened with passion and love.

“I am yours, Angel.” She whispers.

I thrust hard, taking her gift in one stroke. She gasps at the sudden sharp pain but doesn’t scream. The intoxicating scent of her blood nearly sends me over the edge. I fight to control the demon, while I wait for her to adjust to the sensation of being filled. I lean down and bury my face in her hair. I feel my control slipping as the demon comes forward.

She moves slightly, so she can look into my face and I resist. She reaches up and runs her fingers along the ridges of my forehead.

“Hear and mind. Soul and demon.” She whispers.

I begin to move within her, slowly at first. She clutches at my back urging me to speed up. Soon I am thrusting hard, fast and deep, sending us both over the edge. I come, moaning her name just before I sink my fangs gently into her neck. Her blood is like fire spiced with her passion and sweetened by her love. I can almost taste the purity of her feelings at this moment.

I pull away and look into her eyes as the ridges of the demon disappear.

“I love you, Willow . I don’t think I realized truly until I saw you being attacked tonight. I couldn’t imagine what my life would be without you.”

“I love you too, Angel.”

I roll us to a more comfortable position but I don’t withdraw. I want to maintain this exquisite contact as long as I possibly can.

We snuggle together, enjoying the moment. I kiss her lovingly, gently, reverently. “My love.” She merely smiles and nods. Soon she is asleep. Her even breathing has a calming effect on me.

I reflect on the events of the night and I realize that I am happier now than I ever thought possible. With that knowledge, I drift into a peaceful sleep of my own.

I can sense the sun rising and I roll over to gaze upon the redheaded witch beside me. Her hair is fanned out on the pillow and a slight smile graces her lips. She stirs and I lean over and kiss her. Her eyes open with a start.

“Oh my god! Angel!”

“ Willow , love, what’s wrong?”

She tries to get out of bed but I manage to keep a hold on her.

“Calm down. Talk to me.”

“Oh my god. You must hate me.”

Now I’m very confused. Before I have a chance to ask another question she starts to babble. “I am such a slut! What was I thinking!?! That’s right – I wasn’t thinking. Now you must think I’m easy and everything’s ruined and Buffy will hate me and Xander will hate me and Giles will be so disappointed in me…”

“ Willow ! Stop!”

Immediately I regret my tone because her bottom lip starts to quiver. I continue in a gentler tone.

“No sweetness, everything is fine. I don’t hate you. I could never hate you.”

I put my finger under her chin and raise her eyes to meet my gaze.

“You are perfect. You’re everything I’ve ever wanted. My friend, my lover.” I lean in and gently kiss her. “I love you Willow . We will make this work.”

“Buffy’s gonna hate me.” She says sadly. “And I am such the skanky ho. We haven’t even dated and I’ve already had sex with you.”

“ Willow …” I start, worried, “We didn’t just have sex, we made love.” I take an unneeded breath. “Do you regret this? Do you regret us?”

“Oh no! Angel, I could never regret being with you. It’s just that maybe we should’ve dated first, you know… like normal people.” She looks at me exasperated. “I guess deep down I’m a bit old-fashioned. I worry about what you’ll think of me and that because I was too easy you won’t want me anymore. But if I was too hard to get you wouldn’t bother either. And I’m not making any sense here, am I?”

I smile, what I hope is an understanding smile. “We’re not normal by any stretch of the imagination. And I’m old fashioned too, in some ways. I guess that comes from being around for a couple of centuries. I understand your concerns, but believe me,” I pause to take her face in my hands so she is facing me, “nothing could ever make me think badly of you.”

She smiles and relaxes a bit.

“The others will just have to deal with it. If they are truly your friends they will want you to be happy.”

“I know, Angel, I just…”

“Don’t want a confrontation?”

“Exactly. Except with Buffy, everything is a confrontation.”

“Don’t worry my love. I’ll be with you every step of the way. We’re in this together and we’ll face them together.”

“So you don’t think I’m a slut?”

“Of course not!” She still looks doubtful. “So we jumped ahead. We can date; we can do whatever you want. Whatever makes you happy. Nothing will change the fact that I love you.”

“And I you, Angel.”

She snuggles into my embrace and we lay there content.

“I’d like to date.” She says sleepily.

“I think that can be arranged.” I answer with a smile.

“We could watch movies. You need tot catch up on the classics.” she teases. c “How about tonight?” I offer.

“Great!”

“But I get to pick the movies.”

She turns to look at me.

“Oh really? What did you have in mind?”

I smile wickedly. “How about a double feature?”

She looks at me expectantly.

“U2 Rattle and Hum and Led Zeppelin The Song Remains the Same.”
 

The End

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