~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
~Part: 16~
Willow looked up at Angel. She was apprehensive about telling him the truth and it was tearing her heart and soul apart. One part of her wanted to lie to him, to tell him no. The other part, her heart, wanted to tell him the truth. It was screaming at her to tell him. Willow took a deep breath. "Angel?"
Angel released her hair and looked away. "I'm sorry Willow. I should have never asked that question. It is none of my business."
Her heart fell, he didn't want to know. Willow ran her hands over her face and through her hair, combing the tangles out. Unknown to her, tears started to fall from her eyes. <It would only complicate things> her mind told her. <Bullshit, you are afraid of showing him how you still feel for him.> Willow's heart screamed once again. Willow was so lost in thought that she did not see Angel turn and study her. He was trying to read the emotions that were running across her face. "Willow." She looked up at him. He saw the fear that was in her eyes. "Why won't you talk to me?"
"Angel, do you really want to talk. I mean...umm...how could you want to be around me, knowing that I betrayed you like I did."
"Willow." He took a hold of her arm and walked over to couch, gesturing her to sit down. "I remember everything now...the one thing I remember the most is when Eric..." Angel dropped her hand and rose to his feet. "When Eric first mentioned you" he turned and walked over to where he had placed the ring, picking it up he closed his eyes. Willow couldn't see what he was doing, but whatever it was she was scared. "The way he talked about you. You intrigued me. I wanted to know you." He turned and walked back to where she sat. "Willow, you showed me the real you, not the one that I met two years ago. See, you didn't have anyone telling you how to be or how to act. That is why I fell for you"
"But..."
"Willow let me finish...or I will never be able too." He sat, taking her hand into his. "Willow you saved me that night...without knowing it."
"What?" She interrupted him once again.
"You saved me. I was meant to be turned that night. I walked out after you left with Erik by my side. He was worse of than I was, he passed out and I turned to see Darla standing in one of the alleys, but my mind was on you...Willow because of that I was not at fault. The first time I went with her willingly, but you changed it. I was so smitten with you that I didn't pay any attention to her or anyone else for that matter" Angel looked up at Willow, who listening so attentively. He saw a glimpse of the women he met before. He smiled at her and continued. "I was beaten by thieves from another part of the country side. That is the way you found me."
"But...Angel...why are you telling me this?" Willow glanced over his shoulder, wiping her hands on her skirt. "You should...hate me. I ruined everything for you. You love Buffy. Buffy needs you...she loves you."
"Willow...you don't understand...I can't and won't be with Buffy. I am married to you. That would be adultery."
Willow stood abruptly. "I don't need your pity Angel. This is the 1990's, not the 1700's. I was wrong, I should have stayed away from you. But no...I let my heart take me away...thinking that I could make a damn difference. But I didn't." Willow turned away from him. "I will not have you stand by my side out of loyalty Angel." She spun around and anger took over. She grabbed his chin to make him look her in the eye. "Can you honestly tell me right now that you love me, Angel? Can you do that? Because if not, then I don't want you to be by my side. We don't need your pity." Willow when numb. She turned and ran for the door. Angel was faster, and he stopped her before she could get out.
"What do you mean by we, Willow?" Angel growled getting tired of Willow changing the subject around. "Tell me damn you are not leaving here until I know the truth."
"Just leave it alone. Angel, please."
"No, I will not leave it be. You are...aren't you" Willow just stood there silent. "Answer me...I have every right to know. You will not shut me out." She whispered her response but Angel didn't hear it. "What?"
Willow raised her head, stiffening herself once again for his anger. "You bastard! You think that all because it's true you can walk back into my life...like you never loved anyone else. No!" Willow tried to push him out of her way. She needed to be anywhere but where she was. "You just can't forget about Buffy. Remember her." She cried. "The love of your life...the one that you would die for. Let me leave...Damn you Angel...let me go."
Angel tried to pull her against him. She struggled with him. "Willow stop...please. Damn it." Willow got an arm free and slapped him across the face. "Fuck." He cursed in surprise, not expecting the hit. Willow tried to hit him again but Angel caught her hand. "Willow...would you listen to me." He shook her slightly trying to make her stop. "You changed things" Willow stopped with her struggle against him. "You changed things."
"No...it can go back...I know it can." Willow began toweep. "I know it can."
There was a clatter outside Angel's door. Willow stiffened. Angel pushed her in back of him and went into a defensive stance. He could sense that it was another vampire. There was a pounding on the door. "Angel I know you are in there...open up this bloody door now." Spike snarled from outside. Angel could feel Willows body relax, and he didn't understand it. She walked out from behind Angel and opened the door. "Willow? What are you bloody doing here with him?" Spike tried to cross the threshold but couldn't. Willow could hear Amy racing down the hallway.
Amy pushed Spike out of the way engulfing Willow into her arms. "My goodness Willow, you scared the shit out of me." Amy pulled the red head away from her and gave her a look over. "What are you doing here? He didn't hurt you? You didn't?" Amy looked from Willow to Angel and then back to Willow again.
"Bloody hell people, would someone invite me into the damn place?!" Spike was standing out in the hallway looking like he was going to rip Angel apart.
"Spike." Willow looked from Spike to Angel then looked down at the floor again. She couldn't just invite him in, it wasn't her choice. "Angel, all of us need to talk...please."
"Willow, I don't understand, what is going on here?" Angel stood his ground, he was still baffled by the previous events.
"Angel let him in...I will explain it all."
"Fine...but don't make me regret this." Angel was bitter, the two of them never got along. "Spike come in."
Spike crossed the threshold and went straight for Angel. "NO! DON'T" Spike tried to move but couldn't. Angel was in the same position as Spike, he was grounded to the floor. They both looked at Willow. She was glowing. "We are first going to settle the difference between the both of you...I will not have the two of you acting like children."
"Pet..."
"Willow."
Angel and Spike tried to shield themselves from the heat of the light that was illuminating from her. "Pet...getting bloody hot in here."
"Huh." Willow looked down at herself. "Oh...sorry." She let down the shield between the two of them. She walked over to Spike to see if she did any permanent damage. "Did I hurt you?" Willow checked Spikes arm and looked at Angel.
Amy finally spoke up. "Willow where in the hell did you get the power to do that?"
"I will explain later." Willow went back to the couch to sit down. She was getting tired and the stress was not helping. "So, which one is going to be the real man?" The two vampire turned and glared at Willow. "Well, I don't have all day."
"Willow, what are you doing?" Amy went to sit beside her. She was trying to establish why she was having all these mood swings. Amy had a bad feeling that that if Willow could not control her temper, someone was going to become dust. "Will, I think you really need to calm down. Stress is not a good thing, you just were released from the hospital and you don't want to go back in." A silent gesture was passed between the two witches. Willow sighed and shook her head.
"Amy, he knows." Amy gasped and Willow looked away. "It was a mistake I...I slipped."
"You weren't going to tell me?" Angel's eyes flared once again. "What were you going to do...hide or what run away?"
"I suggest you shut your bloody mouth, mate." A growl rumbled from the younger vampire. "You don't deserve her anyway."
"And you do?" His sire retaliated. "Oh....wait, you were going to use Buffy as an excuse?" Willow looked up at Angel. He knew he was right. "Like I didn't have a right to know...you have my child growing inside of you!" Angel noticed Spike's grin. "What the hell do you think is so funny? Is there more" He turned to Willow. "Willow?"
Spike laughed. "You are going to be the father of bloody twins,mate."
Angel looked in amazement from Spike to Amy then finally to Willow. "Is he right?" Willow shook her head yes. "Oh...I think I need to sit down" He sat on his couch shaking his head. "How did this happen?"
"I think that you would have learned that by now, Angel." Spike loved to tantalize Angel every chance that he got. "Well, let me give you a little insight. You see there is a stork"
"Spike." Willow's voice echoed warning.
"Sorry pet, it's just too fun...sometimes."
"I will tell you what I think happened Angel." Willow looked over to where Angel was sitting. If it weren't her in this situation, she would have laughed at the look on Angel's face; it was one of utter bewilderment. She had never seen so many emotions cross his face until today. "It happened that night that I died. I had to be sent back...but they came back with me. I figure some how my soul is connected with fetuses that are growing inside of me."
"Cool." Everyone looked at Amy. "Sorry...so whatyou are saying Will, its just like dreamscaping? You pulled them back with you?"
"I think...there is no other explanation for it." Willow spoke to Amy while the two vampires looked at them. One tried to process that at 243 years old he was going to be a father. The other was just trying to figure out what the two witches were talking about.
"We have to talk to Giles about this." Angel stood walking towards the phone.
Willow jump up fanatically trying to get to Angel before he got to the phone. "Angel...no." Willow slammed her hand down hard on the receiver, biting her lip to hold back the cry of pain. "You can't...I can't have anyone else know...not yet."
Angel put down the phone and picked up Willow's hand. He could see that she hurt herself. "Why?" He examined it, touching the reddened flesh lightly. "Giles will be able to help."
"Maybe she doesn't want his blood help." Spike chimed in.
"Shut up, Spike." The other three occupants berated him.
"B...because if Buffy finds out. She'll....I don't know what she would do." Willow slowly pulled her hand away. "She'll hate me and Xander, he would kill you the instant that he saw you...Giles, I don't know."
"Will, their going to find out sooner or later...we are going to have to tell them and what about your parents?"
Willow took a deep breath and turned away from Angel. "They know...my Dad he is standing by me...My Mom is just worried about my education. She wants me...she wants me...to" Willow's head dropped.
Amy and Spike watched the two interact with one another. They looked at each other, both knowing that they should stay out of this.
Angel placed his hands on her shoulders to comfort her. "What is it Willow? Does your Mother want you to give them away?" Angel waited for her answer, then it dawned on him when Willow did not answer him. "The hell you are!!" Angel snarled, turning Willow around to face him. "You are NOT killing them!" He was in full game face. Willow eyes widened in fright and she began to whimper. "I will not let your mother take something that belongs to us...I can't believe you of all people were going to let her do that."
Willow shook her head. "No...I wasn't...she didn't...she wasn't going to force me into a decision. Spike talked to her...she just...just wanted to go over the options with me." She gasped as Angel unknowingly tightened his hold on her. "I...I couldn't do it....they are the only part I have left...please Angel, you're hurting me."
Angel loosened his grip on her. "Willow, what do you mean that is the only thing you have left? Left of what?" Angel searched her eyes and found the answer that he was searching for hidden in the depths of her eyes. "What have I been trying to tell you? Willow, like I said once before, you changed things...that includes me. Even when my demon was in control...it knew something was different."
"I hate to say this pet...but the old man's right."Angel and Willow looked over at Spike. "You see, out of nowhere he decided to stop harassing the slayer and set his sights on you...but he didn't want to kill you for some odd reason."
Amy stood from the place that she was bound to. She never saw such raw emotion come from two people before in her life. "Guys, why don't we just sit down and talk about this. We can be civilized right?"
Angel turned his attention back to Willow. His eyes pleading with her. "Ok." Willow finally gave in and went to sit back down with Angel not far behind.
As the four of them sat and talk they covered the basics. Buffy and the others were not to know until Willow gave her consent. Angel made it known that he wanted to be a part of Willow and his children's lives. Willow tried to object, but Spike intervened telling her that it was only right. They deserved to have a father. Even if it was someone that he didn't like or did not trust. Amy told the two vampires that they had to stop their childish antics because Willow didn't need them at each other's throats all the time. She also told them that Willow needed lots of caring. Angel agreed to that almost automatically. Once they had the groundwork laid out, Amy and Spike decided to leave Willow and Angel alone to talk about other things. They said their good-byes and left the two alone.
Angel ordered something for Willow to eat. While they were waiting, they both gave their opinions on what they wanted to happen. Angel wanted to be in her life, it didn't matter how. He could tell that she still loved him, even though she wasn't going to admit it. He could read her expressions as easily as he could back then. Angel, on the other hand, his emotions were simple. He did love her but he was afraid to admit it to her. Willow would think that he was lying to her. She didn't see the way he pushed Buffy away when she made advances on him. But he knew one thing. He would win her heart again, no matter how long it took.
~Part: 17~
“Willow…Pet.” He called out from the bottom of the stairs. “I’m back..luv.”
“Spike.” He heard the little red head call out. “I be right down.”
Spike shook his head as he went to get some blood that Willow made him store in the refrigerator. As he opened it he remembered what Willow had said to him about no killing when he was living with her. “That little pixie…damn I am never going to live this down.”
“Live what down Spike?” Startled Spike banged his head on the refrigerator.
“Damn it…Luv.” The blonde hair vampire rubbed his head. “you are going to be the death of me.”
“No.” Willow giggled.” That would be Amy’s job.”
Spike gave her a look stating clearly that he didn’t know what the hell she was talking about.
“I wanted to know if we could talk about a couple of things.” Willow looked down at floor hoping that he would not turn her down.
“Things? Pet.”
“Well, I want to know what Angel was like before his soul was restored.”
“What?” Spike was confused by her question. “Why the hell would you want to know something like that?”
“Because I do.” She followed Spike into the living room. “I want to know Spike.”
Spike turned around to face her. “Pet…you know what he was like YOU read all the books…”
“I know about the books…I read the books.” Willow sighed and sat down on the couch. “If I really did change things…then he must have been different?”
Spike scooted down so he could be eye level with her. “Luv…I don’t think that you would want to hear anything that I have to say. You know I hated peaches for a very long time.”
“But?”
He placed his fingers on her lips to quite her. “Willow…remember a demon doesn’t have a soul. So anything he does when his soul is not in control isn’t his fault.”
“I know that…but…there..”
“There had to be some part of him that remembered you.” Willow blinked as Spike finished her sentence off.. He stood and when towards
the window not wanting to tell her because it would just complicate things more.
“Its…ok.” Willow spoke before he could. “don’t worry…I know there is a difference. So I don’t need to know. Well, because Angel’s demon is never coming back.”
“I’m glad…Pet…” Spike walked back to the couch and sat beside her. “So what are you going to do with Peaches?”
“Peaches?” Willow eyebrow arched. “Oh…Peaches…Angel…not Peaches. I don’t know Spike. I talked to him a little after you and Amy left. But I still feel guilty about what I did to Buffy. She is in love with Angel.” She sighed as she nibbled on her bottom lip. “I betrayed my best friend in the worse way possible. Fell head over heals in love with her boyfriend, married her boyfriend, and having not one baby…but two by her boyfriend.”
“Pet…I would say that Angel is her ex-boyfriend.”
“yeah…Ex-boyfriend…and its all my fault.”
“Willow…” Spike laughed and shook his head. “you can’t help who you fall in love with dear. Its not for you to determine. Listen, when love…truest form of love that exists to date. You can’t make it go away. You have to understand that.”
“But why does it have to hurt so much?” Willow rested her head on his shoulder. “they have been through so much…and its going to be ME who tears it away from her.”
“Pet. you know that a slayer and a vampire do not mix well…she is suppose to kill our kind…not love them. It would have never worked out. Plus Angel would have never went back to her anyway…mainly because he caused her so much pain…by killing that Gypsy woman.”
“Her name was Miss Calendar.” Willow whispered as she began to tire. “Why did her kill her anyway…Spike?”
“Like anyone…when Angel felt like he was up against the wall he did the
only thing to be removed of the situation. He killed her.” Spike noticed that she was falling asleep. “ Pet…you have to understand, Angel was different when you were gone…his demon actually was falling in love with you. He
even help Amy when she was attacked by Dru.”
“I understand.” Willow murmured.
“How about you get some sleep…you need it.”
“’s ok. I’m not tired.”
Spike shifted so she would get uncomfortable. “Lets go pet…”
“Ok….Ok..” Willow stood slowly trying to balance herself. “You know I hope I don’t become as big as a house…”
“Umm…sorry Pet.” Spike grabbed her arm so she would not fall. “With the three of us around you are going to become the size of two…”
Willow glared up at him. “Ok…maybe three houses.” She smacked him playfully in the arm.
“I have another doctor’s appointment tomorrow. Are you and Amy still coming with me?” Willow asked as Spike helped her up the steps.
“Why don’t you ask Angel to go with you?”
“I don’t know…he’s…”
“Pet?”
“Ok…fine. I will ask Angel if he wants to go.” Willow smiled as she walked into her room.
“Good. Even though Angel might be a depressed jackass most of the time. He still loves you and the babes growing inside you.”
“Yeah…I know.” Spike turned to go back downstairs. “Spike…thank you and good night.”
He stopped but didn’t turn around. “your are very welcome pet. Now get some sleep.”
Willow shut the door to her bedroom and stiffened a yawn as she looked around her room. She sensed something different about it. But couldn’t put her finger one it. She went to her bed noticing she left her dairy out but it was not touched. A knock on her French doors started her. She opened the door and smiled.
“Hi.”
“Hi.”
“Oh…I’m sorry.” Willow blushed. “come in Angel.”
Angel walked into the room. He noticed the tension was thick in the air. “I …was…um…I was walking…and…I wanted...to..”
“Angel…Its ok...really.” She smiled up at the dark haired vampire. “Actually I wanted to ask you something?” Willow nervously placed her hands on her swelling stomach. “I…wanted…to.”
“Willow...are you ok…are the babies…are they ok?” Angel panicked.
“Angel…would you let me finish.” She stiffened a giggle. “Would…you like to see the doctor with me…tomorrow night?”
Angel just stood there comprehending what she just asked him. He opened his mouth but no words came out. <hey...snap out of it…the women is asking you a question!> Angel cleared his head and smiled. “yes…of course. But why do you have to go again. I thought that you already when.”
“Well I have to go again…thanks to Spike. Since he was the one who noticed one hiding behind the other.” She walked over to the bed and she silently asked Angel to join her. “The doctor wanted to update me.
So I…figured I would ask you.” Willow noticed as her and Angel’s hand were intertwined together. She stared how their hands perfectly fit together. <ok...girl stop now…bad Willow…shouldn’t be.><Oh…shut up just live your own life for once.>
Angel watched and waited as she battled her thoughts. He wanted to say
something but didn’t know how she would take it. He could finally hear the fast little heartbeats of his children. “Willow…can I?”
“Huh?….what?” Willow looked up at Angel. “Sorry I didn’t hear you.”
“Have you felt any movement yet?”
Willow smiled up at him. “yeah…it felt like I had butterflies in my stomach…well not butterflies...but…” She situated herself better one the bed. “I don’t know how to explain it. here.” Willow pulled herself so she was leaning against the headboard. “I am sure you can hear their heartbeats. Well, because you have better hearing then I do..”
Angel just sat on the bed staring at her moving slowly as if not to frighten her he laid down next to her placing his head on her growing stomach. Angel smiled when he heard the heartbeats of his children move clearly.
Willow reached out to and gently began to caress his hair. She couldn’t help herself in the stolen moment that she let her heart take over. It was like nothing was in the world except for the two of them. Willow found
herself drifting off to sleep.
Angel looked up to see Willow eyes close. He smiled as he watched her sleep. “Its been a tough night for you hasn’t it Willow.” He whispered moving slightly trying not to disturb her. Angel heard her protests and watched as she snuggled against him.
“Pet, do you want any…” Spike walked into Willow’s room stopping in mid step. “Bloody hell, Angel. What are you doing here?”
“I wanted see Willow.” Angel whispered harshly at his child.
“I know mate…” Spike smiled and threw a sheet over at him. “cover the windows if you are staying.”
“What are you up to, Spike?” Angel asked as he looked from Spike to the sheet.
“Well lets just say…I want Willow happy and I want her to stay away from the unwanted stress. Now be good peaches.” Spike closed the door
hearing his sire cursing him to hell in Gaelic.
***********
Angel woke to something soft tickling his face. He looked down to see Willow stretched out on top of him. Angel took a strand of her hair and ran it underneath her nose. Willow smacked it away.
“Willow…time to wake up.” he whispered softly into her ear taking notice that it made her hair stand on end.
“don’t…wanna.” Willow whined. “I’m tired…”
“But don’t you have a doctors appointment today?”
Willow lifted her head meeting Angel’s eyes. “What time is it?”
“It’s about 4:30 in the afternoon.” Angel wrapped his arms around her waist.
“Angel…we shouldn’t…”
“What time is your appointment?” He pulled her up his body.
“Angel?” Willow whimper.
“What…time is your appointment.” His lips hovered inches away from hers.
“It’s at…um…6:30.” She unconsciously licked her lips, which made her even more tempting to Angel.
“Well, people wake up now.” Spike pushed the door open with his back.
“Spike!” Willow jumped off of Angel kneeing him in his neither regions
making him grown in pain.
Spike smiled when he heard his sire grown. “Willow I made you something to eat love. We needs you to eat don’t we peaches.”
Angel groaned his response.
“Thanks Spike…I didn’t know you could cook.” Spike distracted Willow from the oblivious look of pain on his sire’s face.
“Of...course I can...Pet.” Spike placed the tray on the bed. “We have orange juice, milk, toast, eggs, and pancakes.” He heard Angel growl. “Now...Angel…don’t get yourself all in a fuss…you can cook dinner if you like.” he commented sarcastically knowing his sire could not cook to save his life.
“Well, first I am going to take a shower.” Willow gathered her cloths from her closet and left the two vampires alone in her room.
“You did that intentionally…” Angel mentally through daggers at his childe.
“Have to keep you on your toes somehow.” Spike smirked. “Now…are you going to stay in bed…are you going to make the reservation?”
“What the hell are you talking about.?” Angel snarled as he tried to get up off the bed.
“Well, we are going out to dinner.” Angel looked at Spike as he stood. “After you are done at the office with Willow. You, Willow Amy and I are going to have a nice little evening together.”
“What the hell are you up to…” Angel stalked towards Spike. “You are being far to nice.”
“What’s going on?” The two turned to see the red head standing at the entrance of the room.
“Pet…Angel was just telling me what our plans for tonight. Isn’t that right Angel.” Spike glared back at the dark hair vampire.
“yeah…us…Well, the four of us are having dinner at the new restaurant that opened in the society section of town.” Angel tried to cover up his blunder. Thanking the heavens that vampires don’t blush.
Willow looked the two over. She knew something was going on but she figured she would play along till she knew what exactly was going on.
“Fine…did you call Amy Spike?” She looked over at the blonde vampire. “Because I have to tell you that Amy is worse then Cordelia when it comes to getting ready.
“No…pet. I have to do that…” Spike left the room to use the line downstairs.
Willow walked over to the tray and picked up a piece of toast. “Angel?” He looked up into her questioning eyes. “Do you…I mean can you eat.?”
“Yes…sometimes but it doesn’t make the hunger go away.”
“Oh…Ok…Sorry I didn’t mean…”
“Willow.” Angel smiled as he watched her eat. “its ok. I love the way your mind works. Its like nothing I have every seen. So many questions, if you have any don’t be afraid to ask ok.”
“Yes..Ok…I will promise.” Willow looked out at the sky. “You ready..maybe I can get in earlier. Let Spike make the reservations.”
“Anything you like.” Angel’s laughter filled the house. “I could never deny you anything.
~Part: 18~
Willow was sitting in her OB/GYN's office waiting to be seen by her doctor. Willow noticed out of the corner of her eye that Angel could not sit still. She didn't know whether to yell at him or laugh. But Willow knew one thing for sure that it was getting annoying.
For the first five minutes Angel was fine but the after that he would get up pace, ask her if everything was ok while flipping threw a magazine the get up and pace again.
"Angel?"
He was instantly by her side. "What? Are you feeling ok?"
"Yes…I mean…no…well, what I trying to say is stop pacing please…its getting to be very annoying." Willow looked up at Angel. She could see the confusion and fear in his eyes.
"I'm sorry…it's just…."
"Miss Rosenberg?" Angel looked up to see a nurse who was calling Willow's name out. Willow stood and followed her into the reception area. Angel was right behind her. "Sir, you are going to have to wait in the lobby until Miss Rosenberg is finished with the initial exam." Angel walked out closing the door behind him.
"So…is that the father?" The nurse smiled as Willow rung her hands together.
"Yes…" She followed the nurse into an empty examination room.
"You know the drill, undress and the doctor will be in shortly. After it is finished I'll send the young man back here." The nurse smiled as she left the room.
<young man….he is old enough to be my grandfather five times over.>
Dr Waters walked came into the room when Willow was done changing. "How's the patients doing tonight?"
"Fine…" Willow smiled up at the dark haired doctor. "I...I felt them move."
Dr. Walters smiled down at the teenager. "Well, that’s a good sign. " She wrote a couple of things down in her chart while Willow was looking nervously around the room. "Willow, I am not going to lie to you…but there are always a risk with a woman so young in age to deliver twins. I am not." Dr. Waters motioned for Willow to lie back so she can check the heartbeats. " saying that you are going to be the one with problems but lately almost every one of my patents has called me with difficulties."
"What kind of difficulties?" Willow mind was working when the doctor told her about the others problems. <could be the hellmouth?>
"Oh…not eating enough, I had one child that was born on time but weight in at only three pounds. That was all muscle and bone. She had to be in an incubator for about a month. But during that month the child gained triple its weight."
"So how many children were born like this?"
"In this month I have been in the delivery room more then ten times. I would say about five out of the ten."
"What?!" Willow sat up straight. "That is half…But what if my children are born like that…or if something happens to them…or one…"
"Willow…calm down." Dr. Waters put a hand on her shoulder. "Breath. don't need you blood pressure going up so early."
"Oh…I'm calm…that’s… calm." Willow sighed closing her eyes trying not to think about what the doctor just explained to her. "don't worry…I will be pressure free for the next couple of months."
The doctor laughed. "So how is that cute older brother of yours. Did he come with you?"
"Sp…Oh…Billy…no…no he was busy tonight…with Amy. Another friend is with me tonight."
"At least someone came with you tonight." Dr Waters rolled over a portable ultrasound machine. "I wanted to do another ultrasound to see if I can see how everything is progressing."
"Oh…Ok…" Willow looked down at her abdomen that was swelling. "C…Can Angel come in and have a look…he's been dying…well, not dying, doesn't mean that he is dead."
"Willow." Dr. Waters interrupted her babble.
"Huh? Oh…sorry…"
"If you would like him to join us for the rest of the visit that would be fine by me." The doctor walked out of the room to get Willow's partner.
When Dr. Waters walked into the lobby she saw a well dress dark haired man talking to her nurse.
"Beth, would you please stop flirting with the man." Dr Waters saw Beth glares at her. The nurse resumed trying to talk to Angel but he was more interested in why the doctor was out there.
"Is…everything alright?" Angel advanced on the doctor. "I mean is Willow alright?"
"Yes…She is fine…she just wanted you to be in there when I looked at the fetuses."
Angel's expression changed instantly. From what Dr. Waters could tell she was standing in front of the proud papa to be.
"Well, let's go we can't keep mom waiting." She lead him back to the examining room.
When Angel walked into the room he smiled at Willow. He noticed she had this jelly substance all around her abdomen. Angel just stood They're not knowing what to go. He had heard about this procedure through Spike and how he loved to rub it in knowing that he was the first to see Willow's unborn children.
Dr Water's pointed to the screen and as Angel looked at it he could see the two fetuses. "There they are. The one's still behind the other but give it time they would change positions." Angel nodded not even listening to what the doctor was saying. "The two are 24 weeks about this time or in a few weeks you will actually be able to feel their movement.
Angel was so engrossed looking how their unborn children were moving around in the confines of Willow's uterus. He touched the screen as one of them put its thumb into its mouth.
"One of them are sucking its thumb." Willow as Angel spoke those words. "Look…I never believe that they did so much inside there."
Willow laughed making the screen jump. "Well, of course they do…its not until they get older when they start getting lazy." Willow felt Angel's hand absently stroke her face. "If you can see you can make out the sex of the children." Willow smiled mischievously as Angel looked up at her. "But I am not going to tell you."
"Well, I hate to interrupt but we are finished here. Angel if you don't mind stepping outside until Willow is done changing."
Angel nodded and looked at the frozen screen one more time before leaving. "Willow I already knew what they were." He gave her a smirk as he closed the door.
Willow walked back out into the lobby Angel stood behind her while she made her next appointment. It was a short walk back to Willow's house. Willow was thinking about how she would be as a mother would she be a good one. She knew for sure that Angel would be a good father by the way she remembered him in the past.
"What are you thinking about?" Angel brought Willow back to reality.
"J…just the past…and other things." Willow could tell that Angel stopped walking. "A…angel I'm sorry…f…for bringing it up."
"Willow." Angel brought her face up to where he could look into her eyes. "don't ever be sorry. What you have given to me in the past and now is unimaginable. Sometimes I don't think that I am even worth your love." Angel pulled a string of hair away from her face. "Do you still love me? The way you loved me when you said goodbye that last night?"
Willow's eyes were filled with tears when Angel asked her that. She had been thinking about that night ever since she woke up in the hospital room. "Angel…I…I have and will always love you."
He smiled when he heard her. No one could make him happier then he was at that moment. Angel wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her body up against his own. "Because you know…I have been in love with you for over two hundred years."
Willow was on the verge of giggling but stopped when he saw the glint in Angel's eyes. She could feel herself being lifted off the ground feeling her stomach jump as his lips brushed hers ever so lightly. The kiss was a renewal of passion and love.
"So how about we get you something to eat. Knowing Spike so well, I think he would be a line in the floor from him pacing."
This time Willow did laugh. She extended Angel took it without hesitation.
"You know we have other things to discuss…Angel?" Willow smiled up at him. Hoping that he would accept her decision.
"Don't tell me you already want to talk about names?" Angel grinned and squeezed her hand. Willow let out a little squeak.
"Um…yes…do and I don't want you to get upset. I already picked out a name for one of them."
"Did you pick out a name for the boy or the girl, Willow?"
Willow looked ahead of them. "Um…how did you know it was going to be a boy and a girl?"
Angel snorted. "Females have different heartbeats then male's do. Also because I am a vampire…Willow." He pulled her closer again him so he could protect them from anything that went bump in the night. "I knew when you first let me lay my head on your abdomen."
"Oh" Willow looked up at him strangely. "OH…ok…then."
"So what name did you pick out for our children?" Angel heard her whisper but he couldn't hear what she said. "What?"
"William?"
"You want to name the boy after Spike." Angel's voice rose a notch. "Why? I…What would you do if I wanted to name the girl Elizabeth and call her Buffy for short."
"Elizabeth….I…its…a nice name…but I will not nickname my little girl after one of our ex's or no so ex girlfriend." Willow pulled herself out of his grasp.
"What do you mean…not so ex." Angel stood there with this look Willow could only describe as flustered. "I haven't even spoken to Buffy in a month or two. Since I remembered that you are my WIFE! You are not calling my boy William, over my dead body."
"Your already dead….Angel." She growled at him. "You've been dead for over two hundred years and you never broke it off with Buffy. She doesn't even know that I am pregnant.
"That isn't my fault. I didn't even find out until a couple of days ago. How the hell was I suppose to tell her." He spat the words out of his mouth. "and I will tell Buffy the next time I see her."
"I will name my…our son after Spike. His name is going to be William whether you like it or not." Willow turned and started to walk away.
Angel sighed and ran after the wobbling Willow. "Willow stop."
She froze when she heard his voice. "Fine…you can name him William as long as you don't nick name him Spike." Angel drew her into a hung. "But I get to name the little girl."
Willow placed her chin on his chest. "I knew you would see it my way."
Angel kissed her on the top of her head. "What am I ever going to do with you my little penguin."
"Penguin….I can't believe you just called my a penguin." Willow scrunched up her face. "I do not look like a penguin."
"Well, when you were walking down the street your body began to waddle." Angel laughed. "I think it was the cutest thing that I ever saw."
"Oh…now I waddle like a duck."
"Willow…lets get you something to eat." Angel took her hand and started to walk to her house to mean Spike and Amy.
The rest of the way home Willow's voice could be heard berated Angel about the names he had just given her.
~~~*~~~
Angel and Spike are waiting in the living room of the Rosenburg house. The blonde hair vampire looks up ready to say something to his sire but is interrupted by a shriek.
"What the bloody hell was that?" Spike stood up before he could see what was wrong, Amy came down the steps.
"Well we are going to be a little while?"
Angel looked at Spike then looked over to Amy where she was nervously running her fingers through her dark brown hair.
"Amy, What happened?" The dark haired vampire eyed the only female in the room. "And as I ask you that question where is Willow?"
"Well," She pointed her eyes up to the ceiling. "You see, mommy to be up there is getting on my last nerve. Don't get me wrong she's my dearest friend but if I have to hear one more time that she can't wear that because she looks like a beached whale I am going to scream." Spike walked passed the two in the middle of the conversation. "You had to tell her that she looks like a penguin didn’t you?"
"But…Amy?"
"Don't but me." She shook her head. "Willow doesn't know whether to or kill you." The dark haired Witch looked around the room. "Where did Spike shuffle off to now?"
***********
"Pet?" Spike knocked on Willow's door. "Are you decent?"
"You can come in Spike?" Willow's voice ended with a sniffle.
Spike walked in the room surprised to see Willow sitting on the bed wearing an oxford. He walked over to her sitting next to her on the bed.
"You know luv? You are going to have to get dressed because we have a reservation at the country club in less then an hour."
Willow looked up at him with puffy eyes. "I…I know I just can't find anything to wear that fits any more. Look at me Spike. I am the size of a house."
Spike unsuccessfully tried to stiffen a laugh. Which earned him a death look from Willow.
"Pet… not only are you pregnant with one child, you are having two. " Spike placed a comforting arm around Willow. "Now, I don't know what you expected luv, but your body is changing to accommodate the children that are growing inside of you. I know that you've been trying to hide it from the Slayer…"
"Buffy…"
"Fine…" Spike rolled his eyes. "Buffy, and that so called best friend of yours….."
"Xander…"
"Pet don't interrupt." Willow could see his dimples when he smiled at her. "Xander… but you are going to have to tell them… they will suspect something is wrong. I don't know why they haven't visited you sooner… that is any of my concern. But luv, you are going to have to tell them before they figure it out. Knowing Buffy… when it comes to the big poof down there… she is going to have a slayer hissy fit. " Willow giggled as the tears dried on her face. Spike went into Willow's closet as he listened to her rant.
"I know… its just so hard to tell someone what happened. They are never going to forgive me. When Giles finds out, he's going to tell the counsel and they are going to take the twins away because they will never go… " Willow gasped. "Spike… I can't tell them… Giles… the counsel…. BUFFY!".
Spike spun around to see the Slayer standing at the french doors. Stake firmly clutched in her hand. Spike seen that look before in the slayer's eyes before he ended up in that chair. <fuck we are screwed.> The blonde turned to look at the red head that was discretely trying to cover herself with the ruffled blankets on the bed.
"Willow…. what's… no.." Amy ran into the bedroom and stopped when she saw Buffy standing there all to much like a person that wanted answers.
"Amy… is Will…." Angel trailed behind Amy and bumped into the witch sending her stumbling to the bed. "Oh… Buffy… Hi."
"Angel?" Buffy looked around the room. "Can you tell me what you're doing here?"
"I'm um.."
"What nancy-boy is trying to say here is we are going to dinner..." Spike gestured to the occupants excluding Buffy. "The four of us. Got a problem with that Slayer?"
"Willow… are you ok…" Buffy totally ignored Spike and sat down next to Willow. "Xander and I've been worried." Angel and Spike snorted. Buffy turned and glared at the two vampires then turned to Willow again. She looked closer at the red head trying to figure out what was different about her? "Willow… are you gaining weight? I know you lost a couple of pounds while you were at the hospital but it looked like you gained it all back then some."
"Oh… this is going to be good?" Spike snickered
"Willow what did Spike mean by that?"
"Buffy… I'm… pregnant." Willow let out a sigh and shook her head.
"With twins," Spike gloated.
Buffy started to laugh. "Yeah… that's a good one Spike. The next thing that you are going to tell me that they are yours?"
"No not… Spike's." Angel's voice was deadly serious. "Mine."
The room when silent. Buffy looked up at Willow who had tears in her eyes. Then looked at Angel who in turn was staring at Willow. She rose to her feet and Spike stepped in front of Angel.
"I don't think so pet." Spike's game face slid into place. "See, peaches here needs to stay around and not have you turn him into dust."
"How long?" Buffy whispered. "How fucking long has this been going on behind my back."
"Buffy-"
"Shut up Willow!" Buffy slid the stake out of her sleeve. "Is someone, ANYONE, going to answer me?"
"Its complicated." Spike snickered at the distraught slayer.
"How difficult could it be." The slayer pointed the stake at Angel. "You told me you couldn't have kids. But Willow, my best friend that fucked my boyfriend," Willow winced at the comment hugging herself tightly, "is having your child."
"Twins." Spike smiled sweetly at Buffy, holding up two fingers.
"Shut up Spike!" Angel growled at his childe.
"Hey… Mate… I have a brother and a sister I have to look out for."
"Spike!" Willow hiccuped.
"Sorry pet." Spike moved to sit by her side.
"All of you are acting like nothing is wrong here. You," she turned to Willow, "screwed my boyfriend… it had to be when he was evil. I mean, it’s the only way that you could have him, wasn't it Will?" The slayer tapped the stake against her forehead. "You know… now that I think about it… that's why he was so obsessed with you… and you are making Angel stay with you because he pities you."
"Buffy, I suggest you leave now… before I throw you out on your ass," the dark haired vampire growled as Buffy turned towards him. "You see Buff… you don't get it, do you? Its not pity… its something more… something you never made me feel. In fact, its not even about you. The whole world does not revolve around Buffy Summers."
"Angel?" the slayer could only see hatred in those chocolate orbs. Something that reminded her of his counterpart.
"Don't even say it Buffy… you see… its over between us… after I regained my soul I learned a couple of things. One of those things is that I don't love you anymore."
"No… you don't mean that…" Buffy cried. "All because she is pregnant isn't suppose to change anything between us. I can help you raise them. Just you and me."
"Buffy get out." Willow's eyes started to glow a faint white. "You nor anyone else are taking away what is mine. I will kill anyone who tries to take away my children. You come near me or this house again… and I will not think twice about taking your life."
Buffy walked up to Willow, they were almost nose to nose. "You really think that I will let you take something that belongs to me? I don't think so Wills. Angel is mine and when he wises up… he will come crawling back to me.."
Buffy turned to walk out the door when she saw Angel standing in front of it. "What, you wanna come with me?" Buffy drew closer to him running her fingers down his silk shirt. "Come with me Angel and leave the bitch and her children behind."
"I am telling you only one more time," Angel grounded out through his gritted teeth. "Get out… don't make me throw you out." He grabbed her hand and squeezed it, making her yelp in pain. Angel opened up the french doors and tossed her out of the house.
The dark haired vampire slammed the door without even thinking. Angel craned his neck and looked at Spike. "Spike change the locks." Angel sat on the bed next to a rocking Willow.
"You know mate, I am just going to have to kill the chit one of these days."
"Spike you couldn’t kill her even if you try." Amy laughed. "How many times have you already tried. I can't even count on my fingers any more… so just forget about adding another slayer to your bedpost. We have more important things to take care of." Spike followed her glaze over to a very hysterical Willow and his sire that was trying unsuccessfully to calm her down.
"Le's go pet…" Spike egged Willow. "Amy will have my bloody head and other parts if she doesn't eat soon." Both girls glared at the peroxide blonde. "Hey, it’s the truth."
Willow let out a small giggle. "Thanks Spike." The red head shifted her head on Angel's shoulder. "Can we just do takeout and eat here. I don't feel like going anywhere."
"Whatever you want… but you know Buffy is going to tell Giles and Xander." Angel prodded. "Which means that you- 'we' are going to have to tell the truth about what happened."
"I make a suggestion you Nancy boy. Lets all just eat and think about this another time. The slayer's knickers are already in a bunch but she will cool down and see things straight again." The blonde snickered. "Never knew obsession could be so lethal."
"Ok… I already know what I want… what about the rest of you. "Amy came back with a menu. "Well, except for the two blood suckers. Will?"
"Um… sushi."
"Eww… now that is totally gross." Amy shook her head and picked up the phone. "Raw fish…"
"I will have you know luv, that it is a delicacy in the orient. " Spike peered over the brunette's shoulder.
"Hey… maybe we can go shopping… Will need cloths to fit." There was a collection of groans from the peanut gallery. "What, all I am saying is that Will needs things. Angel you don't really think that she is never going to go out. She has to go back to school sometime."
"Amy… we may be vampires but we are still guys… and the one thing that I never lost is my hatred for shopping."
"I agree with Peaches…."
"Fine… whatever…" Amy began to push Spike out the door. "Lets leave these two alone… so they can talk."
"Talk pet… that is all they do…" Spike grumbled from the hallway. The comments making Amy's laughter ring through the house.
"So… sushi, huh?" Willow looked up at Angel. "I mean I read some books in my free time and they all said something about cravings. But I still don't understand it."
The red head began to twist her fingers together. "I'm kinda new at this too… I mean experience wise. I never." She blushed. "well, never done this before… Its not easy for me either. What if I am bad at it… the mother thing… I mean I am just a kid myself."
"Willow." Angel caressed the side of her face. "I don't think you could do anything wrong concerning the twins." He smiled down at her one of those rare smiles that she only saw once or twice. "Just trust me…"
"Yes…" She noticed that the space between them was getting smaller. "Umm… Angel?"
"Ssshh."
His lips touched hers softly as his fingers began to drift through her red locks. Angel could feel Willow stiffen slightly but continued his exploration of her lips. Willow sighed, parting her lips slightly she could feel his cool tongue flick across her teeth. The red headed witch brought her hand up to the back of Angel's neck pulling him closer to her. She deepend the kiss tentatively caressing his tongue with her own.
The vampire shifted himself forcing the red head to fall back onto the bed. He heard her groan with the loss of his lips, leaving a trail of nips and licks down the side of her neck. Willow tilted her neck giving him better access to her neck and herself. Angel growled as he felt her gentle hands leave the back of his neck and rake down his back.
Spike looked up as Amy was continuing to talk about Willow and the kids. He could smell a fragrance wave down the steps. The blonde vampire grinned and shook his head.
"No what?" Spike looked down at Amy who was peering at him.
"Nothing pet." Spike glanced at the door. "Foods here."
Spike sighed as he looked at Amy then up at the ceiling. The brunette brought the food back inside and rested it on the table. Before Spike could say anything Amy's voice echoed through the house. "Willow, Angel… Foods here."
Spike snickered imagining his sire being interrupted.
Willow let out an airy giggle as Angel still laid on top of her supported by his elbows. The red head felt his head fall in the crest of her neck shaking his head.
"Angel I think that we should go down stairs." Willow fidgeted slightly. Angel didn't move. "Angel please… I can smell the food… and I am starting to get hungry. I want my sushi…. now."
Angel pulled himself out of hiding, he smiled looking down at her but still didn't move. "Well, I'm hungry too.." Willow blushed at his comment. The vampire looked down at the sudden flutter. "Ok… fine… you don't have to tell me again." The dark haired vampire stood making himself and Willow presentable. She giggled as he ran his hands threw her hair. "What?"
"They have you wrapped around their little growing fingers already…."
"That they do… Willow that they do." They left the room looking forward to dinner.
~Part: 19~
He could hear her moaning from the other room. He knew that she was dreaming and he could tell by her heart rate that even though she was dreaming his new family was ok. The vampire smiled.
"SPIKE!!"
Spike was out of the bed and in the witch's room ready to attack anyone who causes her harm. He looked down at the red head and noticed that she was wide eyed and her heart was racing which wasn't good. "Pet, what's wrong?" He tried to sooth her. "Willow look at me." Willow finally looked up into his eyes. "Deep, take a deep breathe and tell ole Spike what got your knickers in a twist."
"Ang.le.. an... an. and. Buffy.. know!?!?"
Spike looked at her. He unwrapped the blankets that were twisted around her body. "Now, Red. I really don't know what you are talking about." Willow looked at him like he grew a third head. "What?
"They know Spike, about the babies."
"Well, if they know I didn't tell them." Spike caught her hand as she was trying to get out of bed. "Amy hasn't told them."
Willow snatched her hands away as if his touch burned. "That's because I was the one that told Angel. When I went to see him tonight." Willow rose from the bed and walked over to the balcony doors. "Then Buffy came in and.. there was a fight.. and Angel and I.."
"Pet..." Spike walked over and placed his arms around her. "I really don't know what you are talking about. You didn't leave the house at all tonight." He drew air into his dead lungs. "It was a dream that's all." He rose from the bed and stopped right behind her. "You fell asleep pretty early. I carried you up."
Willow turned around to look into his eyes. "But.. it seemed so real." She could tell by the look in his eyes that he was speaking the truth. "It. I.."
"Shh." Spike smiled but there was a concerned look on his face. "It was just a dream. You trust ole Spike." He took her hand and walked her back over to the bed.
"Yeah." Willow yawned. "I guess." The red head laid back down. She could tell Spike was concerned about her condition.
"Good." He pulled the blankets over her. "Night luv." Satisfied for the moment.
"Nite, Spike." Willow turned and snuggled under her blanket.
Spike walked to the door looking back one last time. He slowly walked out the door closing it softly. He leaned against the wall for support. "What's going on in that bloody head of yours, Red?" He sighed and walked back to his room.
~~~*~~~
The next morning Willow woke refreshed. She showered and went down stairs and heard Spike and Amy whispering. As she came closer to the door the whispering stopped.
"Morning Red!" Spike smiled as she walked into the room and sat next to Amy. "Amy just stopped by to see how you were."
"Thanks."
"Anytime Willow." Amy placed an arm around her friend's shoulders. "Spike told me you woke from a nightmare last night?"
"Sorry pet," Spike placed a glass of milk in front of her. "I was worried."
Willow glanced at both of them. "But it seemed so real. I actually thought that it was real?" The red head looked at the blonde vampire who just flipped a pancake over. "Spike, you said last night that I didn't leave the house?"
"Yes, that's right."
"Buffy?"
"No, the damn bloody slayer wasn't here either." The vampire spat.
Amy decided to intervene on the conversation. Knowing that when Spike became angry words just flew out of his mouth. "Willow, Angel did not stop by last night. I was here. Trust me, I would tell you if anything happened last night. Maybe the dream happened because you wanted him to know. Because of the connection that happened between the two of you."
"But why would I want him to know?" Willow absently stroked her growing stomach. "Buffy and Angel are soulmates. They will always be together." Tears started to run down her face.
"Oh Red." Spike wiped away the tears that began to fall. "That is what you say when you are awake. Your heart and mind are saying different, aren't they?"
Willow whimpered as the last of the doubts fled from her mind.
"Why don't you go upstairs and wash up." Spike watched as the last tear fell. He felt his heart clench in pain for the girl in front of him. "Amy will walk to school with you."
~~~*~~~
The day at school was uneventful. No one noticed the changes in Willow. She wore baggy clothes to hide her growing stomach. Xander and Buffy met up with her and Amy at lunch. Buffy told her how patrol went with Angel last night. She stressed that there was more foreplay happening then the actual art of slaying vampire. Willow excused herself and quickly ran of the lunch room. Amy followed right after her. Buffy and Xander could only watch as the redhead left the room. They both were starting to worry about the red head.
Willow needed a place to hide. Hide from her friends and even from the world. She went to the one place where she could find solace. She walked through the double doors and noticed that the room was empty. She let a heavy sigh fall from her lips. She looked around the library and noticed that there was no one here. Which wasn't unusual but Giles was always in the library. She walked up the steps and sat down in the chair that was placed in the back of the library.
The red head started to cry. She didn't know why the conversation with Buffy and Xander upset her so much. Amy's words went through her head. She understood that she whole heartedly loved Angel more then anyone else could love him. She also knew that Angel would return those feelings. She understood that Angel would always love Buffy because their love was like a forbidden fruit. Those were the last thoughts that went through her mind as sleep claimed her.
Amy couldn't find Willow that made her worry. What was worse is that Spike was right next to her walking but didn't say a word. When she got to Willow's house he was still there. The vampire knew there was something wrong when he didn't see Willow walk in with her. The blonde witch told him what happened. He wasn't thrilled with the witches' friends at the moment. Amy remembered in every detail what Spike would do to the people that hurt Willow in any way. She tried to shake off the sense of dread as they approached the school. Willow had been missing for hours.
Spike walked through the double doors of the library enjoying the sounds of the wood almost ready to shatter when they closed behind him.
"Where is she?" Spike slammed his hands down on the library table.
The other occupants of the library noticed that Spike was in full game face. They all stood waiting for an attack. Angel and Buffy stood side by side waiting for the apparent fight. But the blonde vampire just stood there. Buffy couldn't understand why Amy or even Willow would trust the vampire. He didn't' have a soul like Angel. He was a killer, she knew that, everyone knew that.
"Where is who, Spike?" Giles asked moving back to the cage where the weapons laid. He didn't need this today. He has just found out that a prophecy involved one of the children in this room. "Again, I will ask, Who are you looking for?"
The vampire was shocked at the words that just came out of the watchers mouth. He thought that Buffy's watcher would actually know who he was talking about. "Willow, you chit."
"Oh.yes.Willow." Giles looked around for the quite witch. "I really haven't seen her today."
"I haven't seen her since lunch." Buffy looked over at Xander. "She ran out of lunch, earlier." She looked at Spike as the stake that was hidden under her jacket slowly slid down into her hand.
Amy noticed this. "I wouldn't do that if I were you Buffy." She motioned to the stake in her hand. "Put it on the table where it shall remain."
Buffy blotched. "I will do no such thing. Spike is a killer or did you forget. Hello?!?" The slayer couldn't help but wonder what was going on. She felt Angel's hand rest on the small of her back. "You know, Amy, I was wondering. Why are you and Willow hanging around with Spike. I mean, He's a vampire." Amy gave her a confused look. "He is a soulless vampire."
"It really doesn't matter who Willow and myself befriend." Amy knew the slayer was about to say something. "Don't say a word, Slayer." Amy's eyes turned black. "If you don't put that stake down I might just do something that I might regret."
"Is that a threat?" Buffy started to approach the witch. "Lets see what you really got."
Spike placed himself in front of the blonde witch. "I wouldn't take another step slayer." He grounded out through clenched teeth. "I haven't had the blood of a slayer in a long time. Maybe it's about time that I get my fill."
"Spike!"
The blonde looked over the slayers shoulder. "Oh.What is the slayer's puppy finally allowed to speak?" Spike threw at his sire. Knowing that every sarcastic word spoken was driving him crazy. "Is the slayer going to give you a bone to chew on?"
"All we want to know if Willow was here."
"Why.so she can donate to the local vampire blood bank." Buffy's sarcastic words didn't shock the witch. "or is it a two for one special for witch's blood tonight"
The blonde vampire had enough. He was finally pushed over the edge. "Slayer I am going to tear you limb from limb.j"
In the back of the stacks the red headed witch was startled from sleep. She could hear the exchange of words the group was having. She stood there and watched as the four combatants stood face to face and wondered who was going to throw the first punch. She didn't want that to happen.
"Spike." Her voice was small and fragile.
Spike ran up to her. "Red are you ok?" He surveyed her body to see if she was injured. "Willow, we were worried. How long have you been here?"
"I.uh.fell asleep back in the stacks." Willow turned and pointed sheepishly where she just came from. The next thing she knew she was engulfed in a hug.
Giles was silently watching the drama that took place. "It can't be." He whispered to himself.
Angel turned from the couple to get a better look at Giles. "Is there a problem, Rupert?" Rupert Giles walked over to the book he had placed on the counter. This worried Angel, he smiled down at the blonde slayer and walked over to where Giles stood. Giles handed him the book and Angel read from it.
"filiolus have electus unus per putus animus ut should exsisto plumbum in obscurum. Is mos reverto per a donum. donum donatus ut suus would exsisto ones of vox. munia would exsisto redemptor ut could aut servo orbis terrarum vel attero is."
The dark hair vampire looked up at Giles. Who was looking at Willow and Spike. "The gods have chosen one with the pure soul that should be lead into the darkness. She will return with a gift. The gift given to her would be ones of power. The gifts would be the redeemers that could either save the world or destroy it." He looked down at the text and back at the two who were staring at him.
Willow heard Angel read the text. <Latin.> Spike felt her tense as she translated the words in her head. He looked into her eyes and saw the worry in her eyes. "Read it again?" Willow's voice shook.
Angel cleared his throat to get everyones attention. ""filiolus have electus unus per putus animus ut should exsisto plumbum in obscurum. Is mos reverto per a donum. donum donatus ut suus would exsisto ones of vox. munia would exsisto redemptor ut could aut servo orbis terrarum vel attero is." He looked up at the group. "Which means: . "The gods have chosen one with the pure soul that should be lead into the darkness. She will return with a gift. The gift given to her would be ones of power. The gifts would be the redeemers that could either save the world or destroy it."
"No.no.no.." Willow shook her head. "It can't be.I will not let it be." The group all stared at her in shock as she retreated to the doors.
"Oh.no you don't pet." Spike grabbed her arm. "Red.you are making a scene. Remember?!?" He whispered as he walked Willow to the chair. "Sit down, pet."
Amy sat down next to the red head. "Sorry.she hasn't been herself lately." She smiled innocently but she knew that Giles and Angel could see right through her. "So what does it mean?" Trying not to look over at the dark vampire who just raised his eyebrow.
"Well.Amy." She smiled and cheered silently as Giles too the bate "I really don't know yet. Its not as simple as it reads." Spike patted Amy on the back congratulating the witch's performance. "Remember this is the Hellmouth."
Willow vaguely listened to Giles as he gave all the information that he had to the group. She knew what it meant. She didn't want to look up at the people she called friends. She didn't mean to go back in time, marry Angel and become impregnated with his children. She laughed out loud she didn't mean to. It just happened. Spike and Amy looked at each other and silently groaned.
"What is so funny, Wills." Xander examined the witch. Something was different. Willow paled. "Willow are you alright Buddy?"
She stood and the emotional tool finally took over. "I.ah." She ran out the door.
She tried to make it to the bathroom but couldn't. The others could hear as Willow wrenched everything that was in her stomach. They all ran out as they heard her cries. Buffy was the first to see Willow on her knees trying to get some air into her lungs. "Willow!" She slid right to her friend's side.
Angel stopped in mid stride as he saw Buffy trying to comfort Willow. Something tugged in the back of his mind. But he couldn't recall what he was supposed to remember. What he saw would make a mortal man sick. A woman who he remember as so beautiful and happy was now on the floor looking like she was about to end her life. She was so unhappy and no one knew why. He watched Spike and Amy run passed her. He watched as Spike pushed the slayer away from the red head. "Those two have to know what is going on." The vampire with a soul walked up behind his girlfriend and helped her to her feet. The slayer looked back at him with tears in her eyes. "I know Buffy...I.We will find out that is happening to her."
"We need to get her to a hospital."
"She's will be fine.all she needs is rest." The blonde vampire picked the fallen red head up. "Don't worry about her Xander. She will be ok. I will see to it."
Xander could not believe how sincere Spike sounded. It was like the soulless creature was in love with his best friend. "I'm coming with you."
"Xander its better if you stay here." Amy followed behind Spike. "Xander." She whirled around when she still heard the boy following her. "Clean out your ears. Xander, you have to stay here."
Xander walked behind her with a stoned look on his face. The only reason that he did stop is because if he didn't he would have ran straight into Amy. "Listen.I am tired of you and Spike always carrying her away. I want to know what is wrong with my best friend. I have every right to know why.. or what is causing her to become so sick all the time. Fuck.has anyone besides myself noticed that she looks different." He turned to where Buffy, Angel and Giles were standing. "You.Buffy have been so involved with deadboy's return, you didn't see it. Giles, you're always the one who knows when someone especially Buffy is hurt or not themselves because you are a watcher. But you didn't see it either." Xander turned to face Amy. "You have no choice in the matter. I will come with you. There is no way to stop me unless you kill me."
Xander walked behind Spike and Amy. He was watching the way that Spike carried her. He couldn't get the prophecy out of his head. <What.if the prophecy is about Spike.and Willow?> He shook his head not thinking about that right now. He will get back to that detail later.
They arrived at the sleeping red heads home. Spike placed her on her bed and started to remove her cloths. He already knew where she kept everything. He hurried and dressed her in clean cloths and threw her others to the side. Spike finally was able to look at the witch. It scared him as he saw her bones starting to show. He knew this was not how a pregnancy was supposed to go. Her belly was swollen which was still a good sign. He picked up the phone in her room instinctively calling the doctor. He told her what was going on. The doctor told him that she needed to see her right away. Spike listened as the doctor spoke to him giving him instructions. She also told him that if she didn't start to eat and get rid of some of the stress the twins could be born premature or worse she could have a miscarriage. Spike made the appointment for tomorrow evening. He be damned if she was going to let her do this to herself. He hung the phone up and walked down the stairs still expecting to see the teenage boy in the living room. He decided that he was going to tell the boy what was going on with his best friend. Because he couldn't be around her all the time. He was just going to leave a very important piece out.
"Xander sit down." Spike sat next to the witch. He pushed air out of his dead lungs. "I need to tell you a little story. I don't want any interruptions."
"You can't Spike." Amy hissed her disapproval. "Trust me, Pet."
"Willow is seven months pregnant." The blonde vampire signed and looked at Amy.
"That is really funny.Spike."
"What did I tell you about interrupting me?" He glared at the boy in front of him. "This is no joke. It happened right before she went into the hospital. I came across her in the park. She was acting really strange at the time. I figured that she was going though one of her bloody sodden phases women go through. I picked her and carried her back to this house. She invited me in and something happened I really don't know.." Spike was about to tell the boy the rest of the story when he felt a fist connect with his jaw. Spike jumped and just barely avoided another fist to the face. "What the bloody hell is that for?"
"You.you.knocked up my best friend." Xander screamed. "How could you. Vampires aren't.. supposed-"
His true face came into view. "What, Xander? Have children? Think about it before you hurt yourself."
"You... raped her!" Xander picked up a lamp. He swung it behind his head ready to deliver the blow. "Bastard!" But his hands wouldn't move. He looked at Amy. Her eyes were the color of onyx.
"Put. The. Lamp. Down!" The lamp crashed to the floor.
Willow stood on the steps and listened to what Spike told Xander. She remained quite and watched the drama unfold in front of her. She didn't know whether to kill the blonde vampire or thank him. He has just might have given up his undead life for her.
"I am going to find Buffy. She is going to hunt you down and torture you until you plead for her to kill you." Xander rushed to the door.
"Xander." He turned around and saw his best friend standing on the steps. "Please, don't tell Buffy."
"Why, Willow?" Xander walked up to meet his friend. "He hurt you! God knows what you have growing inside of you." Tears started to fall from her eyes.
"They're HUMAN you arse. " Amy held Spike back from ripping the boy limb from limb. "I should know. I can hear their heart beats."
"Yeah, right." Xander huffed as the vampire struggled against the blonde witch. "You're a vampire and Willow's a witch. So that would make them half vampire."
"Xander, look at your best friend." Xander turned to see the red head curled up on the step. "Look what you are doing to her."
Brown eyes met green. His heart melted. "Willow.. I-I'm sorry." He tried to take her hand but she wouldn't allow it. "Please forgive me... I always thought that I would be there to protect you."
"It's ok." Willow wiped the remaining tears from her eyes. "Now, that you know. I am going to need you, just like I need them. "She smiled at the two in the living room. "This has to stay between us. If anyone finds out."
Xander understood the implication of what Willow has just said. If Buffy found out she would kill Spike. She would take great joy in killing the vampire that was beside him.
"Are you calm enough to sit and talk like an adult?" Spike was annoyed by the innuendo that he raped Willow. He never had to rape any woman. "Or are you going to get your little slayer friend?"
"Sure."
The group of four sat in the kitchen. Spike explained the events that took place that night. How a magical force took both of them over. The three watched in awe as he created his own story of the night that took place. How mystical and romantic he made it seem. But two out of the three knew it was a lie and they watched as the other took his words in as they were gospel.
Xander listened as if he was under a spell. Once Spike's voice trailed off he awoke from the force that kept him for entranced. "Let me get this straight. You and Willow, did the horizontal hokey pokey and Willow is now having your children?"
"Yep, you hit the nail right on the head."
"So this little turn of events may deal with the prophecy the gang was talking about in the library." He looked for any reaction from the blonde. "You can't think that this is all just coincidence."
"No I haven't Xander. I have been too worried about Willow to think about any damn prophecy."
"I have been to worried about Willow." Spike looked at the red head. "Like I said. She hasn't been eating right. She has been upset for the last five months. I am afraid that the little chit over there is going to lose them." Xander looked at his best friend. Spike was right she did look thinner and she has been more depressed. "I called the doctor because of the last spell Will had tonight. He told me that if Willow does not start eating right and taking care of herself mentally. That there is no doubt in his mind that she will miscarry."
"Well, we can't have her doing that now." Xander smiled at the witch. "I will do anything I can to help."
"Good."
Willow could not help but feel loved at the moment. Even though she wanted and needed someone else near here. But she knew that she couldn't have it her way. She knew that the love the vampire and the slayer had for each other would never come undone. Faith has proven that.
~~~*~~~
The two warriors fought side by side. They were surrounded by vampires. The two killed four that night and more were coming.
"What is it tonight." The woman said as she put a stake through the last vampires heart.
"Buff, if I knew, I would actually tell you." The dark haired vampire caught one of his kind by the back of the neck. "But I don't." She heard the snapping of its neck. Watching the dust fall to the ground.
The couple started to walk through the park there were no words to say only compatible silence. That is the way that its always been. Angel noticed the slayer start to fidget he knew that there was something on her mind. She just didn't know how to bring it up. Which was not like her normal self. She would usually let the words just roll off her tongue, no matter who was on the receiving end.
"Buffy. What's wrong?"
She looked up at the vampire then looked at the ground. "I don't know Angel. Its just what happened today, with Willow." She looked up at Angel again as he walked beside her. "I have never seen her like this. She has been so depressed lately and I would love to know why. She thinks that I don't notice but I do. She is getting too thin, her face is so drawn in."
Angel stopped taking the slayer into his arms. "Why don't you talk to her." Placing a kiss on top of her head. "She has been different for the last couple of months."
"Maybe I should." She smiled up him. "I will talk to her tomorrow at school." Their lips slowly met and she sighed and leaned into his large frame. "I have missed this. You and me like this. I still love you. I always have." The slayer looked into the eyes of an Angel. "I knew that you would come back to me. I just knew."
"Buffy." He pulled her arm from around his neck. "We have to take things slow. I don't want to lose my soul again."
"I know that." The blonde pouted.
"Come on. Its getting late." Angel placed his hand into hers. "You have school in the morning."
"I know." They started to walk down the path. "I just wish that I could spend more time with you like a normal couple do." Angel froze. "Something is watching us." She felt it to.
Angel scanned the area but he couldn't see what or who was watching them. But he could still feel it. He knew it wasn't another vampire nor was it human. Then he saw her walking towards them. She was wearing a dark hooded cape. She was taller then Buffy but had the same built to her. He felt Buffy's hand tighten around his own. "Get ready." He whispered.
The woman looked up and smiled. Her violet eyes sparkling with humor. "Oh, you don't have to worry Angelus. I am not one of your kind."
"Who are you and how do you know my name?" He growled.
"You don't have to growl at me boy." She noticed that his human mask fell and revealed his true face. "That doesn't scare me one bit."
"You are known in some parts as the one with the angelic face. In others you are known as the Scourge of Europe."
"Alright lady, we don't need a history lesson." Buffy pointed out.
The sorceress laughed. "You really know how to pick ones with fire don't you Angelus." Her laugh turned into a smirk. "First you choose the red head who was with your child when you were turned."
"What the hell is she talking about Angel?" Buffy looked at her beloved then back to the sorceress. "You had a wife who was pregnant."
"Buffy.. I"
"Oh.she doesn't know." The woman laughed. "Or is it you just don't remember?" Angel grabbed Buffy's arm and began walking away from her. The woman could hear the slayer arguing with the vampire. She smiled. "The prophecy has begun." She turned and walked away.
The vampire and the slayer stopped at her words. They turned and looked at the place where she stood. "I have to see what she meant." He turned the blonde face up to his. "Buffy, I have been having these dreams, of my past. But not of the past I remember." Tears started to fill her eyes. "You have to trust me... please."
"Angel, she said that another woman was carrying you child when you died." She sniffed. "You never told me anything about your past. How is this tied in with the prophecy. I just don't understand."
"That is what I have to find out." He pulled her towards him as she tried to run. "Didn't you hear a word I said."
"I heard everything Angel." The slayer pulled away from the vampires grip and ran into the night.
Leaving Angel alone trying to figure out what just happened.
~Part: 20~
The following after noon at Sunnydale High School. Buffy was at the lunch table eating and telling the group what occurred last night "I just can’t believe that he wouldn’t tell me something as important as that. I mean he killed his wife…or whatever she was to him and she was carrying his child." She shoved her fork into her salad. "I just can’t believe he didn’t tell me. He said that he does not remember." The slayer placed a piece of lettuce into her mouth. She chewed and swallowed. "I mean, How can he not remember. I just don’t know what to do?"
"Why don’t you ask Giles to look in the books about Angel’s past." Xander stated while opening another Twinkie. "There should be something in those books" He turns to Willow who was playing with her lunch. He draws closer to her. "You have to eat little buddy." He smiles at her as she looks up at him.
"Willow…will you help me look through Giles’ books." She asked the red head. "Because you know how Giles is when it comes to his old and musty books"
"Sure…" Willow smiled at her best friend. She also had a plan to see if she was in those books as well. "When do you want to do this?"
"How about we do it tonight?"
"Willow…can’t she has a doctors appointment to go to." The dark haired boy looked over at his friend. "It’s a checkup to see if she’s ok."
"But…She has been out of the hospital for five months now." Buffy looked up at Xander. "Why does the doctor want to see her every month."
The boy almost choked on his food. Cordelia patted her boyfriend on the back a couple of times. He looked over at Willow. She looked like she was going to bolt from the room again. He couldn’t have that. It just wouldn’t look good. Well, the doctor wants to see if there…could be some residing problems that Willow doesn’t know about. I am taking her tonight. Because I want to make sure my little buddy is alright." He smiled triumphantly.
"Maybe I should go to." The slayer also wanted to make sure that her friend was ok. "She has been acting different for the past couple of months"
"No…" Both the witch and the Zeppo nearly screamed.
"Its ok…" Willow tried not to think of what would happen. "You have patrol and Xander will give you all the details on the appointment."
"Fine…but." Buffy pointed at Xander. "I want to know everything." The bell rang ending lunch. Which couldn’t happen to soon for the two. "I have to talk to Giles." They watched as Buffy walked out of the lunch room.
"Thanks Wills." Xander puffed. "How am I going to make up another story?" He watched as the red head placed her hand on her belly. "Are they kicking…can I feel…I never felt babies move? Please."
Willow smiled. She needed Xander’s support. It was like a breathe of fresh air. "Sure." She watched as Xander placed his hand where hers used to lie. She couldn’t help but laugh as he watched his face go from frightened to sheer joy.
"I can feel them move." He uttered. Then looked up at the red head. "Willow…your going to be a mommy."
Willow for the first time smiled at the thought. She let her mind wander to what her children my look like. She hopes that one of them would have Angel’s eyes. Or her eye color with Angel’s hair. She was brought out of her thoughts by the feeling of everyone staring at her. "Xander…you have to get up. Everyone is staring.!"
Xander looked around at the kids staring at them. "Hey…her stomach was growling. I wanted to know what it was saying" All the kids start to walk away looking at him as if he was crazy. "See…defused the problem."
The two life long friends walked out of the lunch room smiling and laughing.
~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~
The slayer approached the library. She could feel that Angel was in there. She tried to calm her heart and tell her that everything was going to be fine. But there was something else that was troubling her. Willow and Xander were both acting very odd today. She also overheard one of the students talking about the two. Something about Xander touching Willow’s stomach…and that Willow was pregnant. She shook off that thought <Willow can’t be pregnant. She is a good girl.>
"Giles?" The two men looked over at the woman who called the watchers name. "Oh…yes…hello Buffy." He adjusted his glasses. "I thought that Willow and Xander were coming with you tonight?"
"Oh…no." Buffy walked over to the table and laid her book bag down. "Xander is taking Willow to the doctor. Something about a checkup."
"how…odd." Giles looked at Angel, then looked at Buffy. "Why would she need a checkup?"
"Giles…don’t ask me…She looks better and happier then she been in months." Buffy shrugged then went over to the weapons closet. "Did Angel tell you about the woman we saw last night?"
"Yes..ah..Buffy." The watcher looked over at the vampire who nodded his consent. "It states in the book here. That Angel, when he was changed did kill his wife and his unborn children." Buffy dropped an axe that she was carrying. "But the book does not give a mention of her name. Only that she had red hair and was beautiful in her own way." Giles pinched the bridge of his nose as the slayer stomped over to the two men
"Alright…I have had enough." She looks at Angel. "You said last night that you couldn’t remember about this woman you were married to. How could not remember that you loved some other woman and was she was going to have you child."
"Buffy…"
"No…Don’t do that.." Buffy glared at the vampire. "I know this happened over two hundred years ago. But its something I would have liked to know."
"Buffy…you said yourself…that was not me." He tried to walk away from the slayer. But he grabbed his arm. "I don’t know why I don’t remember. Or why that night is not haunting me."
"Buffy…Maybe he just choose to block that memory out." Giles tried to calm his slayer.
"Yeah…tell me another one Giles."
The doors of the library swung open again. Cordelia came walking into the library and stopped as the three looked at her. "What…is there something on my dress?"
"Cordelia…Can I help you?" Giles looked at the young girl and groaned as he watched her check for signs of stains on her cloths. "Cordelia…there is nothing on your bloody cloths"
"Has any of you seen Xander.." She straightened out her top. "He was suppose to meet me an hour a go to go shopping."
"Last time I seen him was at lunch. He said that he had to take Willow to the doctors." The blonde repeated again.
"I…tell you Buffy…sometimes I think that Xander loves that girl more then anyone." Last night I called him and he didn’t want to talk to me. He mentioned that he just got home from Willow’s house and he sounded like he was crying."
"Listen Cordelia" Buffy walked over to the beautiful brunette. "Willow has been Xander’s best friend since practically childbirth…."
"Oh…my god…" Cordelia gasped. "Speaking of child birth. There was a rumor floating around school that Willow is pregnant." Her voice lowered. "can you believe it….I wonder who the father is? If its Xander I will kill him."
"What do you mean Willow is pregnant?" Giles thought his night couldn’t get any worse. "Are you sure that it was our Willow?"
"yeah…A friend of mine told me what happened after lunch today. She said that Xander was feeling Willow’s stomach." Cordelia pointed out. "Can you believe it….in front of almost the whole entire school."
"I really don’t think that Willow…is having a baby." The dark haired vampire stated to the group. "I would have heard a different type of heart beat."
"HUH?"
"Cordelia….Vampires can pick up on these things." Giles sighed. "Are you sure Angel. I mean…knowing about the prophecy last night."
"Giles…that woman that Angel and I saw in the park." Buffy jumped on the counter. "As she was leaving she did say something like the prophecy has begun.?"
"Giles…Buffy is right. The woman did say that as we walked away. She was also laughing and mocking me." Angel looked puzzled. "I just wish I understood what she meant by that."
"Well you are the most hated vampire in Sunnydale." Cordelia added.
"Well, right now I think we have more important things to worry about. Like Willow." Giles walked away from the others and closed his door.
"So…how are we going to ask Willow?" The slayer asked Cordelia. "I mean she must be heart broken."
"Well, I telling you, Buffy." Cordelia was in full gossip mode. "My friends told me that she looked happier then she has been in the last couple of months. How can she be happy about gaining all those pounds?"
"Cordelia." Both girls turned and stared at the growling vampire. "Is this all you can think about. This is Willow. She would never put herself in that type of a position."
"yeah…like you know her so well…Angel." Buffy voice was laced with sarcasm. "When was the last time you talked to her. Do you know anything about her."
"Well, Buffy…"
"Why do you even care." The slayer through her hands up in the air. "Its not like you’re her friend." Those words cut though him like a knife. "tell me something Angel. Because I don’t understand. Why have you been asking question and voicing your concerns about her? You never did before."
"Hey…umm…Guys…What’s going on here?" Willow and Xander asked as the doors shut behind them.
"Willow…Are you pregnant?" Cordelia asked as she walked towards her boyfriend. Willow’s eyes went wide. She looked at the slayer and the vampire who was next to her and promptly fainted. "Well, I guess that answers your question."
"Cordelia…Honey." Xander steamed. "Why did you say something like that." He knelt down next to the red head. "Where did you hear a thing like that?"
"Well, I heard it after lunch. Some of the girls were talking about you touching Willow’s stomach." The brunette cheerleader’s face turned cold. "Xander, by the way Willow fainted I am guessing the rumors were true. Tell me who the father is Xander. Because if it’s you…you made me the laughing stock of the whole school. I swear…."
"Cordy…I am not the father." Xander reached for his girlfriend. "Would someone help me get her off the floor." He looked down to see his best friend no longer there. "Woo…Where Willow?"
The group turned to see Angel carrying her over to the table. He gently placed her down and moved the strands of hair away from her face. He moved his head down to inspect to see if there was any injuries. Then he noticed it. He heard the red heads heart beat but two other heart beats. He gently brushed her jacket aside and saw that her stomach was slightly protruding from her closes. "She hasn’t been eating right?" The teens heard what he said but he looked like to be in a trance. "She is also to pale. She is suppose to have this beauty about her…that is what my mother always told me?"
"Uh…Angel?" Buffy approached the vampire. Her anger defused. "What are you talking about?"
The dark haired vampire looked a little shaken. "What?"
"Angel, honey…Do you remember what you just said?" The slayer sounded frightened.
"No…." He looked at Willow’s stomach again. His hands were itching to reach for the unborn children that were growing inside of her. "What did I say?" He turned his glaze back to Buffy.
"You mentioned your mother…"
"That is impossible Buffy…" Angel started to walk away from the slayer. "I haven’t spoken of my mother since I had my soul restored for the first time."
"Uhh…Deadboy.." Xander teased. "You did mention your dear ole mummy."
"Xander." The brunette whacked her boyfriend. "That was so not nice."
"What the bloody hell is going on here." Spike roared as he seen Willow passed out of the table. "Get out of my way."
"Spike…they know." Amy spoke softly to the vampire trying to calm him. The blonde looked at the others. Then looked back at Spike. "I don’t know how…but I can feel it."
"I’ll kill him."
"You’ll do no such thing." The vampire looked up to see the watcher standing right outside his office with a crossbow in his hands. "How long have you known."
"Well, lets see watcher." The blonde placed his arm around Amy. "I have known longer then you have."
"Giles…put the crossbow away." The watcher looked over at Angel who was beside Willow again. She started to stir. "She’s waking up."
"Angel?" Willow whispered. "Is that really you.." The haze started to lift as she reach for his hand. The dark haired vampire helped her into a sitting position. "Your really here…with me?"
"RED!" Spike growled. Taking notice how his sire reacted.
The haze was gone. Willow shifted away from Angel trying to get off the table. She watched his as a puzzled look fell onto his face then disappeared. "Spike…Amy…"
"They…know Red.."
"Everything…" Willow’s eyes went wide.
"No…" Spike was by her side helping her stand. He helped her lower herself into the chair. Then whispered into her ear. "not…everything pet." He heard Willow sigh in relief placing her head down on the table. "Don’t cry pet. please…I can’t take it when you cry." He heard the witch sniff. "Xander…did she eat today?"
"Yes. She did Spike."
"You knew too." Buffy and Cordelia screamed at the boy. "How long did you know?"
"I only found out yesterday…." Xander sat down next to his best friend taking her hand into his. "I was a little wigged at first…but I am really happy for Willow now."
"So…this is the prophecy…"
"Yep…" Spike boasted. "I am the proud papa to be."
"I’ll kill him." The slayer lifted the axe from the floor. "You…hurt her.." Buffy tried to move but she couldn’t. "Giles…what’s going on here. I can’t move."
"Red…let the slayer go."
"Not…until she promises me that there will be no bloodshed."
Giles looked at the red headed witch. He couldn’t believe that she had that much power. "Willow…what is happened to you."
"Giles…I will not release your slayer until you are seated at the table and there are no weapons near by." Willow looked back to where Giles was standing. "Agreed."
"Well…um…yes…"
The members were at the table. She looked around at all of them. "I am sorry I deceived you. But I couldn’t risk anyone including myself get hurt." She glanced at Angel for a moment then looked away. I….found out at the hospital when I woke up. I wanted to leave but Spike couldn’t let me go." She smiled at the blonde. "He has been a great help to me over the last couple of months. Very supportive and caring. I can’t tell you how it happened…but I do know now these…" She placed her hand on her stomach smiling. "Are mine…and no one is going to take them away from me."
"Well…Well…Well…." The dark haired women saucered into the room. "Looks like the ones that I need are all right here. I don’t have to go searching…."
Angel and Buffy were in front of the others waiting for an attack. "Like…the witch said slayer…no bloodshed. Buffy jaw dropped.
"Willow…is this what you meant…" Buffy hissed through her clinched jaw.
"No…Buffy…I …I don’t’ even know…who this person is…" Willow started to shake. She could feel the power radiating off of her."
"Ahh….Willow…my dear" She smiled at the red head. "I have heard so many great things about you."
"Well, she certainly knows who you are!" The slayer spat back.
"W…Wh…Who are you?"
"Your worst nightmare Willow." The dark witch smiled. "I placed all of this…" waving her hands in the air. "into affect." She saw Willow glance at Angel. "Oh…yes…even that."
Buffy watched the exchange between the older woman and Willow. She saw Willow’s eyes fly to Angel and then back to the other witch. "What does this have to do with Angel?"
"Ohh…my poor dear doesn’t know." She smiled at Willow who was starting to jitter in her seat. "The vampire and the slayer are very much together I see…" She gestured with her hand. Spike started to inch towards the witch. "Don’t come near me vampire." The beach blonde flew into the bookcase. She watched as the other witch ran to the unconscious immortal. "Now…I don’t want to hurt anyone else. I need Willow’s mind and spirit to be well.
"Who are you?" The in-souled vampire growled. "Leave these children alone."
"You do have a voice…" She smiled. " Quite lovely."
"You really want to know my name vampire." The witch smiled sadly as if she was remembering her past. "You didn’t want to know it before…" She looked up at the vampire, eyes glowing white. "My name is Antanasia"
"No…it can’t be." He looked like he was going to die that very moment. "You been dead over a hundred years."
"That is where you are wrong my dear Angelus…" The woman walked over to where the vampire stood. "My name mean *to be born again* or *immortal*. Through the gypsy’s I was brought back…to live out every day of my unnatural life on this plane till your curse has been fulfilled. Until it is fulfilled I am going to make you nights a living hell." The gypsy smiled and leaned closer to Angel. "I am going to take everything that you even held dear…make you pay by the lives of your loved ones"
Angel faced changed startling the rest of the people in the room. He turned to the gypsy. "You will not lay one hand on Buffy…or else…"
Antanasia laughed. "The slayer…why would I harm her"
Angel followed her eyes to they landed on the red head. "I don’t give a damn about Willow. My heart and soul belongs to the slayer."
The words registered in the red heads mind what her beloved just said. Tears started to fall from her eyes and she ran out into the night.
"Willow…" Xander tried to stop her. But he didn’t have a chance. "Wait please." The boy ran after his best friend who needed him.
"My work is done here…" Antanasia bowed to them all. She walked to the doors. "oh…Angelus…think of this as a gift…from the one that hates you the most."
The deepest parts of Angel mind were open. Memories flooded back to him like cold wave. Galway…the bar…meeting a beautiful shy redhead. "No. it can’t be…" Falling in love with her, the red head pulling away from his love. Angel pursuing his love. The red head finally giving in to his advances. He asked her hand in marriage. "Oh…God…No…please…" The wedding, making his parents happy. "Please no more." The vampire fell to his knees as the memories still came. The others in the room watched him being tormented. Buffy tried to calm Angel but he moved away from her. He was trembling now. Memories of their wedding night. Her beautiful green eyes flickered as she helped him shave. The two making love for the first time. He could fell her soft hands touching him, setting him on fire. Looking into her eyes when he first thrusted into her. Wiping away the lonely tear that fell from her eye. Angel reached for Buffy’s hand looking up at her with tearing running down his face. "Make it stop please." He let go of her and fell to the ground. More memories. "Willow adjusting to him. How she started to move underneath him keeping up with the pace. Her moans of love and lust rang in his eyes. "Stop…" Angel trying to get to his feet but slamming his body against the cage.
Spike woke from because of his sire’s please. "oh…hell…not now.." Amy held on to him.
"There is nothing we can do now Spike." She cried softly watching the dark hair vampire going through hell.
"Buffy…" Angel screamed as the slayer touched him. "Get away from me!" He growled as memories of the night he was turned came flooding in but not the same memories he had. Carriage on the side of the road…Darla…draining….taking her blood. "Noooo!" Willow whispering her love to him. Darla draining his wife right in front of him. "Nooooo." The memories subsided. All that could be heard were Angel’s tears.
~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~
Willow ran as fast as her body would let her. She couldn’t think of anything else as the rain poured down around her. She didn’t care about her cloths that were soaked, her getting a chill. She fell in the mud right by her home. Willow laid there wanting to die.
"Lass are you ok?" She heard the stranger before her with Irish accent. "Lassie…come on time to get up now."
She tried to get up but couldn’t. "Leave me be…"
"Can’t do that now…" The red head squinted as the rain fell onto her face.
"Don’t….A…A…Andrew." She backed away from him…"You…Your…Your dead."
"Please Willow…we do not have time…my master is looking for you as we speak. I have to get you someplace safe."
"Master…" Willow whispered. "You…work for her."
"Its not like I have a choice." Andrew tried to get his wet hair out of his face. "Please Willow she is coming this way…She wants your children Willow. Please." He held out his hand to her. Willow could see the gypsy woman walking towards them. "Lets go…hurry…"
Andrew helped Willow to her house watching the Antanasia quickly gaining on them. "Right here." Andrew looked up to see a simple house. Willow unlocked the door and both were ran inside.
"We…be safe for a little while…she can’t come in here." Andrew watched out the window. Never seeing Willow creep up behind him and smashing a statue over his head. The young boy’s body his the floor with a sickening thud.