E-MAIL: winteryuu@hotmail.com
DISTRIBUTION: Just ask.
SPOILERS: Passion. (I never actually coped with Jenny's death, but I'm giving it a shot.) Also, I've used some ideas from the third season, like Oz repeating the 12th grade, etc. Stuff like that.
RATING: I'll go ahead and give this an R for violence, language, and sexual situations.
SUMMARY: This takes place many years after everyone graduates, possibly 5 years later. Things are a little different in my universe, but it's all explained in the story. Also, this story is told first person, from Willow's POV. Basically, Willow left Sunnydale to become a part of the NYPD. Out of nowhere, Angelus appears...
DISCLAIMER: All Buffy related things are owned by Joss Whedon, etc, etc. I own nothing. All information in this story concerning New York (streets, buildings, precincts, etc) is purely fictional, seeing as how I've never been there.
FEEDBACK: I appreciate all kinds of feedback.
AUTHOR'S NOTE: OK, I've finally decided to stop lurking and contribute to the list. This is my first attempt at fan-fic, so please be gentle. I would appreciate any helpful hints from anyone. Thanks, and I hope you enjoy!
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
NEW YORK, 2004.
It was about 2 in the morning and I was still on duty. Who would have guessed? Me, Willow Rosenberg, valedictorian of the class of '99, would have ended up being a cop? I think back to my years in high school, and of the person I used to be. Oh, she's still here alright, but changed, grown up. I went through a lot in Sunnydale, stuff I could never forget. Especially in the few months before I graduated. I still feel guilty for abandoning Buffy and Xander, but I just couldn't stay there.
>From the nightly activities of the "Scooby gang," I became accustomed to being out and around at all hours of the night. I guess that's why I signed up for the night shift when I got my job with the NYPD. It just felt more comfortable.
It was actually strange making the switch from fighting evil demons to evil people. It made me sick at first. The vampires and monsters we fought in Sunnydale were soulless, so in a way, I guess, they had a reason for being evil. But for a mortal to be that evil, even with a soul, was just as scary, but in an entirely different way.
I haven't encountered any literal demons in New York, not really. A couple years ago, when I was still in the Academy, I ran into a few vamps. They were dust in about 5 minutes. I was actually surprised because, one, I didn't think there were any vampires in New York, and two, at my new found abilities. Back in Sunnydale, after Angel turned, Buffy and Giles thought it would be best if Xander, Oz, Cordy, and myself had some lessons in self-defense. They began to train us, and we were happy to learn. But then came the big changes, the string of bad luck during our senior years…no one expected it. No one was the same after that month. Angelus and Spike disappeared shortly after, and no one ever saw them again. Not that I'm complaining.
I think it was then that our group began to pull apart, and it was then that I made my decision to move to the East Coast. I could tell Buffy and Xander were sad to see me go, but also a bit envious. I was getting to leave.
The sound of an alarm ringing brought me out of my reverie. I could tell I was close by to the sounds, so I took off running in the direction it seemed to be coming from.
I found the store easily enough, and got there just in time to see the robbers running away. I gave chase and after about 5 minutes of running up and down streets, through alleyways, and over fences, we ended up in a deserted cemetery. I tackled one of them and pulled my gun, only to receive a hard blow to the side of the head by one of the other two. My gun went flying out of my hand and landed about 10 feet from where I lay.
I quickly jumped to my feet and began using fists. Along with the techniques I learned from Buffy, I used moves from the Kempo class I used to take, and the ones taught at the Police Academy. I was able to successfully disarm all three of the robbers, but I wasn't prepared for their attack.
A blow to my chest knocked the wind out of me, and as I doubled over to try to catch my breath, a strike to the back of my neck sent me down. I foot-sweeped the robber closest to me, and took him down. With a quick blow to the back of the head, he was unconscious and I was back on my feet.
Both of the remaining men attacked and I tried uselessly to defend myself from attack after attack. I noticed that one of them was able to get his hands on his gun, and I found myself starring down into the barrel of a .38, which was similar to my own weapon.
Suddenly, a figure leapt out of nowhere and tackled the man. I used the distraction to my advantage and turned on the other robber. After a swift blow to his nose, he was completely open. I shot my feet out at his chest in a series of sidekicks, finishing with a spinning roundhouse, which sent him to the ground. I quickly cuffed him and turned around, attempting to find out what happened to the other man.
I was greeted by complete silence. I retrieved my gun and slowly began to look around. I noticed a form lying on the ground beneath a near-by tree. Thinking it was the stranger who had helped me, I ran to check on him, only to find the third robber with his neck broken. I gasped in surprise and backed away.
I hadn't even taken three steps when I backed into something hard and solid. I tried to turn, but a strong arm whipped out from nowhere and encircled itself around my stomach. Another quickly followed and settled itself over my mouth. "Promise not to scream?" he asked directly into my ear, but so softly I could barely hear him. I nodded my head and he loosened his grip enough so that I could get free.
I turned around to face the man and found myself staring into a pair of cold, rapturous eyes I had hoped to never see again.
"Miss me, Willow?"
End Part 1
"Miss me, Willow?"
I gasped in shock at seeing his face and began to back away, furiously shaking my head back and forth, refusing to believe that he was here and that he was alive. "Angelus..."
"Now, now. Is that any way to greet an old friend? I thought you of all people would have been happy to see me. But then again, you've changed, haven't you? Yes; I remember a shy, meek, quiet little Willow. I guess it was my mistake to expect you unchanged."
For the first time in a long time, I was at a loss for words. "W-What are you doing here? What do you want?"
"I'd think that was obvious. I'm here for you, Willow. What, don't I at least get a 'thank you' for saving your life?"
"Oh, you haven't changed a bit," I said, angrily. How dare he just pop up out of nowhere and think he can continue his sick little game?! I'm an adult now, a detective, trained to kill if necessary, and I refuse to be scared of that...that...that sadist!!!
"Oh, contraire, my dear. I've changed in ways you couldn't imagine," he said in a seductive voice. But then again, everything Angelus said was seductive. He always had that hypnotic power, and he knew it. He used it to his advantage, to torture everyone he ever came into contact with.
"Yeah," I replied challengingly, "I guess you have. I mean, I never expected the great Angelus to be a chicken."
"Excuse me? Do you mind repeating that?" he asked, a hint of anger in his voice.
"You heard me. I didn't think it was like you to run away from a fight, but that's just what you did, wasn't it? You finally succeeded in really pissing Buffy off, but you couldn't handle it. You knew you would lose if you fought her, so you ran, and took Spike with you. What, did you need protection from the big bad Slayer?"
When I saw Angelus' face, I knew I had made a mistake, but I couldn't help feeling a wave of satisfaction. I just successfully insulted Angelus, and right where it hurt, too.
Before I knew what was happening, Angelus had lunged forward and had my throat in a vise-like grip. His mouth was just centimeters above my own and fear had me paralyzed. Maybe I shouldn't have said all those things.
"You think I'm a chicken, Willow?" he asked, murderously. Leaning in even closer and lowering his voice, he continued, "why don't I show you just how much of a chicken I really am? When you're lying here with your throat ripped out, blood pouring all over your soft white skin, you can tell me again just what a chicken I am."
The realization of his words hit me, and a new fear of that horrible death replaced the old one. I brought my knee up to connect solidly with Angelus' groin. Sure enough, the pain caused him to release his grip. I dropped onto the ground silently and quickly removed one of the wooden hairpins from my hair. I'm not sure why I had worn it all these years. I guess old habits are just hard to break.
I brought my arm up, pin poised, directly above Angelus' heart. I tried to bring it down, but his arm shot up and grabbed mine, twisting it so that I was forced to drop the pin. He applied even more pressure to my arm that I was forced to turn my body to keep it from cracking. Unfortunately, Angelus used it to his advantage. I again found myself with my back pressed tightly against his chest with one of his arms around my lower stomach, and the other around my throat, like the first night after he changed, when he tried to kill me at the school.
His lips were directly over my ear as he spoke, "Well, well. You've got fire, little girl. I have to admit, I like this side of you, but I'm not sure if I like it enough to let you live." I managed to choke out enough words to form the sentence I wanted to ask, "You're telling me that you came looking for me, five years after you left, in a city on the other side of the country, just so you could kill me?"
"Killing you wasn't my original plan."
"Then what was your original plan?"
"Willow!"
Both Angelus and myself were startled at the unexpected calling of my name. I turned my head slightly to see Matt Snyder, a fellow detective, running towards me. Angelus suddenly let me go and said, "We'll finish this later." With that, he disappeared into the night.
I stood there for a few moments, waiting for Matt to reach me, trying to recoup. When he finally did, he asked hurriedly, "Are you OK? Where'd that guy go? Who was he?" I held out a hand to stop the bombardment of questions. "I'm fine, Matt. Don't worry about who he was. It's not important."
"Not important! How can you say that? He looked like he was about to kill you!" "I said I was fine, discussion closed." I looked up at him with my resolve face, and he sighed in unwilling acceptance.
"So," I asked, composing myself, "how did you find me?" "Well," he replied, "you were supposed to check in with me at 2:15, remember? When you didn't call, I got worried. Then the owner of a store near here came into the station and said that he had been robbed. He told me that a female detective, fitting your description, had gone after the robbers. I was afraid you were in trouble, so I asked him to tell me which direction you had gone. I've been running around for the past 30 minutes trying to find you."
"Gee, I didn't know you cared so much," I replied jokingly.
"Yeah, well, you know. You're one of a kind, Rosenberg. Irreplaceable."
"Thanks. Oh, as for the robbers, they're all here. There's one a ways back, he's handcuffed to a tree, so he's not going anywhere. There's another next to him, unconscious, and the third is here, under that tree," I pointed, "dead." Matt whistled approvingly, "Wow. Willow Rosenberg, human lethal weapon. Boy am I glad you're my partner."
"I didn't kill him. It was A--that...guy."
"The one who wasn't important?"
"Yeah. Look, can you call a couple of squad cars and take care of these guys? I'm really tired and I want to go home."
"Sure. Do you need a lift?" "No. I'm just gonna stop by at the station, check out, and head home." "All right. I'll see you tomorrow."
"Yeah, sure. Tomorrow."
End Part 2
I unlocked the door to my one-bedroom apartment and threw my stuff down onto the chair near the door. I was getting a headache. I went to the kitchen and took some Tylenol to see if it would help some, then slumped down on the sofa.
Angelus' return had brought up a lot of old memories, most of which I wanted to forget. I never thought I'd see him again. What did he want from me? What was he doing in New York?
Even though I tried to stop them, the memories of the last month of my senior began to overwhelm me. It all happened almost a full year after Angel lost his soul. Ms. Calendar was dead, but Buffy's mom and Giles seemed to be getting close. Xander and Cordelia were still an item, which surprised everyone. As for Oz and myself, we were still together, too. Oz was a year older than I was, but he never graduated. He had a lot of incompletes and forgot about summer school, so he was forced to repeat the twelfth grade. I wasn't sure what to think about it at first; I remember Oz was hoping I'd find it cute. After a few weeks, I was glad he was still in school. He was my first boyfriend and the most wonderful guy.
In the time between the beginning of the school year and the month before we all graduated, we were happy. I knew that Buffy was still hurting over Angel, but she was getting better. She even started to date again. I think in a while, she got over Angel, and was finally ready to kill Angelus. Problem was, he just wouldn't die. He was strong, and continued to torment us.
Also during that time, I fell in love with Oz. My biggest regret was that I never got the chance to tell him. I can only take comfort in the hope that he already knew how much I loved him, because I knew he loved me, too. That last month was so horrible, it brought all of our worlds crashing down around us. Even though it was 5 years ago, I remember it so vividly, like it was yesterday...
SUNNYDALE, CA, 1999.
"All right!" Xander yelled as he barged into the library, "only one more month of school to go and we are FREE!" "Xander," Giles interrupted, "school isn't over yet and we are still in a library. Keep your voice down." "Oh, Giles, stop being so uptight," Xander replied jokingly, "we've been spending pretty much every free hour in this library for like three years now, and I've yet to see anyone besides new students come in here."
"Xander, be quiet and sit down," Buffy ordered from one of the library tables. Xander, playfully of course, looked hurt, and I decided to fill him in, "Giles was just about to give us a patrol-free night, and Buffy just doesn't want anyone to blow it." "Right," Buffy clarified, "so, Giles. You were saying?"
"Yes, well, um, seeing as how demonic activity has been at an all time low lately, I thought maybe you kids would want to spend tonight doing, you know, whatever it is you kids do nowadays."
Buffy jumped up and yelled, "All right! So, what do you guys want to do tonight? It's gotta be really special 'cause, I mean, think about it, NO PATROL!" She looked around at all of our blank faces, and Oz finally broke in, asking, "So, we Bronzing it tonight?" Everyone looked around and shrugged their shoulders, and Buffy, still excited, said, "OK, Bronzing it is!"
***
Oz and I were sitting at our regular table at the Bronze waiting for Buffy, Xander, and Cordelia, all of whom said they would be coming together. Unfortunately, it had been half an hour and there was still no word from any of them. We tried calling each of their houses, but there was no answer. I stared to get a strange feeling, which, on the Hellmouth, was deadly to ignore.
"Oz," I said, "I'm worried. They should have been here by now." "Yeah, I know," Oz said, also looking around the room for any sign of them. "Maybe we should go over to the library or something and see if anything happened?" I asked. Oz looked at me and said, "Sure. I think that's a good idea."
We got up from the table and were at the exit when we ran into Buffy. Her hair was tousled and there was perspiration on her brow. She was out of breath, and I could tell something had happened.
"Buffy, what's wrong? What happened?" I asked, worriedly, "Where's Xander and Cordelia?"
Buffy looked at us straight in the eyes and took a deep breath. Guilt was written all over her face, but I didn't know why. Finally, she spoke, "Will, Oz…Cordelia's dead."
End Part 3
"Will…Oz, Cordelia's dead."
"Oh my god," I breathed, utterly shocked. "How? When? Buffy…what happened? Where's Xander? Is he OK? Oh god, Cordy…" Buffy nodded her head and said, "Yeah. Xander's fine."
"What happened?" Oz asked. "C'mon. I'll tell you guys on the way," Buffy said. "On the way where?" I asked. "The hospital."
"We can take my van," Oz offered, "it'll be quicker."
When we were seated in the van, Buffy began the story, her voice still filled with hurt and guilt, "Xander and I were just a few feet away from Cordelia's house when we heard her scream. We ran straight into the house and found her lying in a pool of blood. There was this maniacal laughter coming from nowhere, but then the voice said something about 'getting what you deserved.' We recognized it as Marci Ross' voice."
"Marci Ross?" Oz asked, confused, "you mean that girl who was invisible? The one who had that sick vendetta against Cordelia?" "Yeah," Buffy said, sadly, "I never expected she'd come back. Anyway, she had a gun in her hand, so we could tell where she was. She didn't notice anyone had come inside. Xander was so angry and hurt and shocked…he lunged and began hitting her like he was possessed or something. She lost the gun, so Xander couldn't tell where she was anymore. Then she attacked him. I thought she was gonna kill him, so I grabbed the gun and fired."
"Buffy, you didn't…" I said, unable to finish my question. "No," she said, "I hit my target. Problem was, I hit it too well. When we heard the thud, we knew she had gone down, but then we saw her. I guess when she dies, she's not invisible anymore. I just stared down at her. The bullet went right through her head. I killed her. A human. And I couldn't even save Cordelia. Xander had run to call the police, and when they got there, along with the paramedics, they told us that she had died right when the bullet hit her, that there was nothing we could have done. But there was. If only I had gotten there just a few seconds earlier…none of this would have happened."
"Buffy, no! You can't blame yourself!" I said, trying to make her understand, "There was no way you could have known what was going to happen. You or Xander."
"Um, we're here," Oz said quietly as he pulled to a stop in front of the hospital. We ran inside and quickly found Giles, Mrs. Summers and Xander in one of the waiting rooms talking to the police. Giles was asking about Cordelia's parents and the police told him they were out of town, but that they had been informed of their daughter's death and were on their way home.
Giles looked over and saw that we had arrived, "Willow, Oz. I assume Buffy has told you what happened?" I nodded my head slowly. There was this strange numbness inside me. The news of Cordy's death hit hard, but standing here, seeing the police, the looks of grief and shock on everyone's face…it became so much more real.
"Buffy Summers?" one of the officers asked. "Yes?" she replied. "I understand you were the one who fired the gun?" Buffy nodded her head, afraid of what his next words were going to be. "I'm afraid you'll have to come with us to the station." "What?!" Mrs. Summers exclaimed, "Is Buffy in trouble? I don't understand."
"No, ma'am," the officer replied, "she's not in trouble. We've established the murder of Marci Ross as one committed in self- defense. We just need Ms. Summers here, and Mr. Harris, to make a formal statement so we can close this case." "Oh," Buffy's mom sighed, relieved, "all right. I can go with her, right?" "Of course," the officer said.
So the police, Buffy, Xander and Mrs. Summers left for the police station, leaving Giles, Oz and myself at the hospital.
***
NEW YORK, 2004.
Fresh tears were running down my face as I remembered those few days. Cordy… She was such a pain most of my life, always making fun of me. But, in that year and a half when she was dating Xander and a part of our group, she began to change. She was still the fashion freak, unafraid to make snide remarks about anyone and anything, but she was different somehow. More caring, I guess. She became like my friend, and I enjoyed it.
The funeral was beautiful. Her parents were, of course, rich. They thanked Buffy and Xander repeatedly for not letting their daughter's murderer get away, even if it meant killing her.
However, Buffy and Xander were both suffering from guilt. I think Buffy realized that she wasn't responsible for Cordelia's death, but she still had a hard time accepting it, and the fact that she killed a human. Xander was a wreck. He kept saying that he should have been there, that it was all his fault. I tried to be there for him as best I could, but I think Buffy was a greater comfort to him. She was there when it happened and she shared the same feelings of guilt.
The two of them began to get closer over the next week. Eventually, they would fall in love, but they didn't know it yet. They were married about 3 years ago.
I really didn't mind that they were getting closer, in fact, I encouraged it. It seemed to be helping them. Besides, they were both alone, and I had Oz. We needed each other desperately during those few days, especially since Angelus found out about Cordy's death.
We didn't see him in person, no, he had too much class for that. Instead, he sent flowers to all of us, saying he was sorry. If it had been Angel who had done that, it would have been sweet. But it wasn't; it was Angelus. He did it on purpose, too. He knew we would be upset when we got the flowers. He knew we would know that his 'I'm sorry' wouldn't be because Cordy was dead, but because he didn't get to kill her himself. To him, it was all a game, another way to stick it to us.
We could all tell that Giles and Mrs. Summers were becoming involved. It showed in their faces every time they were together. They were falling in love. Buffy didn't mind, though, none of us did. Giles was a wreck after Ms. Calendar's death; even though he tried to hide it, we could tell he was in pain. He loved her. Also, Giles had always been like a father to us, especially Buffy. They decided it was time to tell her mother the truth about everything. She didn't take it well at first, but she got used to it. Giles and Mrs. Summers were married about a week before I left for New York.
So we were all just beginning to cope. We had each other to lean on, to talk to. It seemed, to me at least, that there was a light at the end of the tunnel. But that may have also been because Oz was there for me every step of the way. He was so wonderful. I thought we would be together forever. Little did I know that the following week, that, too, would change.
End Part 4
SUNNYDALE, CA, 1999.
A week had gone by since Cordelia's death, and I thought things were getting better. Oz invited me to come to the Bronze one night since he and his band were playing there. I agreed, of course, but didn't want to bother Buffy or Xander. I wasn't sure if they were up for it yet.
Oz and his band were great, again. I, of course, was sitting right in front of the stage so there was no way he could have missed me. When they were finished for the night, Oz came to sit next to me.
"So, whad'ya think?" he asked. "I thought you were great!" I replied enthusiastically, "but then again, I always think you're great."
Oz smiled that cute smile of his and kissed me softly on the lips. "You're pretty great yourself," he said adorably, "hey, do you want to get out of here? Go for a walk and talk or something?" "Talk?" I asked suspiciously. "Or smooch," Oz replied playfully.
I smiled and nodded my head, and we left the Bronze to go for a walk. We hadn't even been walking for 2 minutes when we were confronted by Angelus and Drusilla.
"Well, well, well. What have we here?" Angelus said condescendingly, "a couple of poor, defenseless, 'slayerettes.' What, no Slayer to protect you?"
Oz gripped my hand tightly and whispered into my ear, "Willow, run!" Unfortunately, Angelus heard and grabbed my other arm, yanking me away from Oz. "Oh, no. You won't be going anywhere, Willow. Ever."
His lips began their descent for my throat and my heart was beating wildly in my chest. I struggled violently, but it was no use. Angelus was too strong. Oz suddenly leapt at us to try to get me away from him, but Drusilla intercepted.
"Bad doggie. You'll have to be punished," she growled. Before I could even register what was happening, I saw her put her hands around his neck and twist hard.
I stared in horror as I heard the sickening crack of his neck and screamed in anger as I saw his limp form fall to the ground. Somehow, I managed to break free of Angelus' grasp and throw myself at Drusilla.
I didn't even know what I was doing. I was in pain and furious and I let my emotions take over. I pulled out the stake Buffy convinced me to carry everywhere I went, and before I even had a chance to think about what I was doing, I plunged it deep into Drusilla's heart.
She turned to ash right in front of me, but I still didn't comprehend exactly what was going on. I ran to Oz and began yelling, "Oz! Oz! Wake up, Oz! Please, Oz!" But I knew he wouldn't wake up. And so I lay there, for God knows how long, sobbing over the dead body of my first love.
***
NEW YORK, 2004.
It was only after that night, when I was re-telling the events to Buffy and Giles and Xander, that I realized Angelus had disappeared sometime after I attacked Drusilla. I was so caught up in my grief over Oz, I couldn't think straight for days.
Everyone offered their condolences and tried to comfort and help me, but it didn't help. Oz was gone and he was never coming back.
We hadn't heard anything from either Angelus or Spike since that night, and we didn't care. Maybe we should have, though. No, I *know* we should have. We were just stupid. We should have known that Spike and Angelus would retaliate. But we didn't expect it.
A week later, the two of them walked casually into the library and showed us their retaliation. We stared in shock as they dumped Kendra's dead body in the doorway…
End Part 5
SUNNYDALE, 1999.
I walked into the library that evening to find Giles, Xander, and Buffy already there. I smiled on my way in and tried to seem happy. "So, what's everybody doing?" I asked, cheerily.
Buffy looked up from her training with Giles and said, "Hey, Will. You feeling OK?" "Yeah, I'm fine," I replied automatically. I had gotten so sick of everyone constantly asking me if I was all right. I know that they're just trying to help but I wish they would just back off and let me live 5 minutes without wondering if I was gonna crack.
"Hello, Willow," Giles said from behind all his fighting pads. The mask on his face was muffling his voice somewhat, but I could still catch what he was saying, "There's been nothing of the…er…paranormal type around here for the past week, so if you wanted to go and get started studying for your finals-"
"Hey!" Buffy cut him off, "how come she and Xander get the opportunity to leave, but I don't?" "Well, because you have your training." Buffy placed her hands on her hips in mock anger, then jumped up and did a flying spin kick which hit the wooden dummy in front of her square in the neck and knocked his head off.
"You were saying?" she asked, smiling smugly. "Way to go, Buffster! If that was a real vamp, that would have been…cool," Xander cheered.
Suddenly the library doors swung open and Angelus and Spike casually strolled in. "So, Lover, how ya' been?" Angelus smirked sarcastically. "Angel," Giles' voice became cold and I heard an edge to it I never noticed before, "what are you doing here?"
"Oh, come on, Mate," Spike interrupted, "what do you think? For our health?" "Then what do you want?" Buffy asked, stepping up. "Oh, Buffy," Angelus taunted, "you didn't really think Dru's death would go un-avenged, did you?"
An icy hand of fear gripped me at the sound of those words. My mind kept replaying those horrible memories from last week, and I couldn't shake them.
"What are you talking about?" Buffy asked suspiciously. "Blood calls for blood, Slayer," Spike replied. With that, he dragged out from behind him the limp form of Kendra, the other Slayer.
"Oh my god," Xander and Giles breathed simultaneously. "KENDRA!" Buffy yelled. She began to lunge towards Spike only to have him counter by throwing her dead body directly at Buffy. "Enjoy your present, Slayer," Angelus said. With that, the two of them disappeared.
Buffy picked herself up from under Kendra and stared at the face of her fellow Slayer. I saw the expression on her face and understood it completely. She didn't want to believe that Kendra was dead.
I kneeled down next to Buffy and put a comforting hand on her shoulder. Words were useless at this point. I could literally feel the anger vibrating through Buffy. She picked up one of her hands and put it over mine, letting me know that she appreciated the comfort.
And so we sat for what seemed like an eternity, Buffy and I huddled together on the ground over Kendra's body, Giles and Xander standing just a few feet away, everyone trapped in their own silent torment.
NEW YORK, 2004.
We all knew how angry Buffy was over Kendra's death, but none of us expected her to react the way she did. We were looking for her the next night, but couldn't find her. It was then that we noticed all of Giles' good weapons were gone, along with his crossbow.
We all knew what was happening, but no one wanted to admit it. It was impossible for Buffy to win, not against Angelus and Spike at the same time. She was gonna get herself killed.
Giles, Xander, and myself raced to the factory as quickly as we could. When we got there, the entire place was in flames. Luckily, Spike and Angelus were nowhere to be seen. Xander found Buffy lying a few feet behind the back entrance.
She was alive, but unconscious. Fortunately, the flames hadn't reached her yet. We called an ambulance and she was rushed to the hospital. Then we called Mrs. Summers. She was so upset, criticizing her parent-hood, beating up on herself. Giles decided it was time to tell her the truth. All I can say is that it didn't go over well. Luckily, Mrs. Summers got over it, enough to marry Giles and help out now and then.
We found out that Buffy was in a coma, but she came out of it a couple days later. It takes a lot more than a blow to the head to take out a Slayer, especially one like Buffy.
She told us everything that happened; her attacking Spike and Angelus, setting the factory on fire, everything she was feeling. I think it was the first time Buffy ever dumped on anyone. I don't think she was used to talking about her feelings.
She recovered quickly, and it was back to school. Graduation came and went, but no one really cared. We had nothing to celebrate. Everything we had ever really loved had been ripped right out from under us.
A week after summer began, the new Slayer appeared in town. Her name was Faith. She was a little rough around the edges when we first met her, but a good person underneath it all. She and Buffy didn't get along right away, but by the time I left, they were close.
It was about the middle of our summer vacations, and Giles and Mrs. Summers were making wedding plans. Then the letter came. I had been accepted into the New York Police Academy. At first, I was shocked. I hadn't expected to get in, but I did.
I broke the news to everyone, and they took it hard. Xander especially. He said I was running away. Maybe I was. I explained to them that I couldn't stay there and watch everyone pick up the pieces of their lives, become happy, and know that I could never do the same.
They tried to tell me that I would meet someone else, but I didn't believe them. There was no one but Oz, and every place in Sunnydale reminded me of him. I don't think they liked the idea of my leaving, but they accepted it, and understood why.
I stuck around until the end of summer so I could attend Giles' wedding. It was beautiful. The week after that, I left. I've only been back once since the five years I've been gone, and that was to attend Buffy and Xander's wedding.
I had been right. Everyone had moved on and found happiness. But Buffy and Xander had been right, too. I did meet someone, but in New York.
His name was Jack Davis, a senior officer at the Academy, and a full time detective with the NYPD. He was a few years older than I was, and he was wonderful. But I lost him, too. He was working an undercover case, and his cover was blown. Most of the gang he was trying to bring down was arrested, but the leader and his right-hand men got away. Jack was killed during that operation. Another love lost. A few months later, I became a full time detective for the NYPD, and Matt was assigned as my partner. He's a great guy, class act.
And so here I am, five years later, still being haunted by shadows of the past.
End Part 6
NEW YORK, 2004.
I awoke to the sound of my alarm clock ringing several hours later. I couldn't believe I had slept through the entire day. I dragged myself off of the couch and stretched my sore muscles. After getting ready, I left my apartment and headed for the station. It was about 6:30 in the evening, and the sun had already set.
After reaching the precinct and parking, I stepped out of my car only to come face to face with Angelus. "Holy--" "Hello, Willow. I told you we'd finish our conversation sooner or later. I just chose sooner."
I gathered up about as much courage as I could muster and squared off with the demon. "Fine. What are you doing here?" "Didn't I just answer that question?" "I meant in New York." "Ouch. What's with all the hostility, Will?" "You're a smart boy. Figure it out."
After mocking a hurt look, Angelus replied, "Well, New York. Let's see. Why would I come to New York? Relatively low in demonic activity, no slayers of any kind, lots of naive people, and an up-side I didn't know existed until I got here...you."
"So you didn't track me down?" I asked, relieved. "No. But I have to admit, seeing you was definitely a plus. My, you've grown up Willow. Beautiful woman, lots of friends, new detective's position, bachelorette pad in the good part of town..." he let the sentence hang there, knowing I was smart enough to figure it out.
A new wave of fear hit me as the realization sunk in. "How long have you been watching me?" Angelus merely shrugged his shoulders and began circling me. "Oh, I don't know. A month, maybe longer."
I began to feel sick to my stomach, knowing that this...monster... had been following me around for a month, watching my every move, and I never even noticed a thing. What kind of a cop am I?
"Actually," Angelus continued, "I had been taking special care not to reveal myself. I hadn't intended to either, not last night, anyway." "So why did you?" I asked. Angelus looked me straight in the eyes while answering, "Well, I couldn't very well let you die, now could I? At least not by some pathetic mortal with a gun. No Willow, you deserve a better death than that. Besides, I hadn't even begun my new game. Now where would the fun be in that if you were dead?"
Before I could even process what was happening, Angelus had covered the distance between us and placed his lips over mine in a fierce kiss. I couldn't believe what was happening. I tried to pull away, but found that my body just wouldn't comply.
As quickly as the he had begun the kiss, he pulled away. I looked at him in shock and watched as he began walking away, backwards, his eyes never leaving mine, becoming enveloped by the darkness and the shadows around him, until he was gone.
It was then that I realized I had been holding my breath and I let it out in a shudder. Angelus had kissed me. I let him. I enjoyed it. Damn!
End Part 7
I walked into the station trying to compose myself after the recent encounter with Angelus. The last thing I needed was for anyone to notice anything. I punched in at the desk and went to my station to check my messages. The only message was from a widow whom I recently helped.
The woman had been convinced her husband had been murdered, but most people just thought she was crazy. Then she came in here with a piece of information that made me look twice. Against the advice of my fellow officers, I took up the case. After all, I became a cop to help people. I soon discovered her hunch was right. We busted the guy and the woman had been extremely grateful. I guess now she can finally have some peace.
I had wrapped that case up a few days ago and decided to head to the file room to begin another one. On my way there, I passed the lieutenant's office and overheard my name being spoken, so I stopped to listen.
I recognized both of the voices coming from the office: Lieutenant Jason Hughes and my partner, Matt.
"We can't just keep this from her," I heard Matt say, "she has a right to know."
"You're right, but if we tell her, she's going to want to get involved, and she's too personally related to it," Jason said.
"Look, Willow's a great cop. She isn't gonna let her personal feelings in the way."
"I'd like to believe that-"
"Then do," Matt interrupted, "look, we're already short staffed and we *need* someone to look into this. Willow has personal knowledge."
That peaked my curiosity. What the hell were they talking about? Something I was personally involved in. I decided to make myself known and stepped into full view in the doorway.
Jason turned around and said, "Willow, we were just talking about you."
"Yeah, I thought I heard my name," I said, pretending I hadn't heard a thing.
"Why don't you close the door, please," Jason said, "we need to talk."
"Uh, sure," I said, closing the door quickly. I was beginning to wonder about exactly what was going on. Good news maybe? Somehow I doubted it. Either way, I was gonna find out.
"Look, Rosenberg, you know I don't like to beat around the bush, so I'm just gonna come out and say this," Jason began.
Well, now I know this is something serious and bad. When cops use last names, it's definitely serious, and when anyone starts talking about "beating around the bush" you know it's bad.
"OK," I said, "so just tell me."
"We have news that Vic Dracon has re-surfaced."
Of all the possible things in the world he could have said, it had to be that. The one thing I would have never expected to hear. But then again, I never expected to see Angelus again. This was turning into a week of surprises.
"Victor Dracon," I said the words slowly, pronouncing each syllable carefully, not wanting to believe. Dracon had been the guy Jack was trying to arrest. He was also the guy that killed Jack.
"Vic Dracon?" I said again, more urgently. "Vic Dracon?!" I was practically hysterical. "Vic Dracon is back and neither of you bothered to say a word to me? How long have you two known?" I yelled.
"Not that long," Matt said, trying to calm me down, "we've been suspecting it for a few days now, but it was only confirmed a few minutes ago."
I took a deep breath trying to comprehend the exact implications of all of this. Dracon had never seen me; at least I don't think he ever did. Which meant he wouldn't know who I was.
"We need someone to investigate," Jason said, "and Matt thought you might want the case."
"Well Matt was right," I stated matter-of-factly.
"Willow…I know about you and Jack Davis. He was one of my best men. This case just hits a little too close to home for you, and I've decided to give it to someone else."
"What?!" I yelled, "Lieu-Jason, you *know* me. I can handle this."
"Maybe," he said, "but there's one thing I haven't told you. Dracon isn't in New York. He's moved."
"To where?"
"Sunnydale, California."
I felt like I was about to collapse. Surprise number three. "Sunnydale," I muttered sarcastically to myself, "oh, this is just great! I really don't think this week can get any stranger."
"I know you have a lot of bad memories from that little town, and I didn't want to send you there," Jason explained sympathetically.
"You know, actually," I said, "I was just thinking of planning a trip to Sunnydale, you know, to visit a few friends and stuff, so I really have no problem taking the case."
I had no idea what I was doing. All I knew was that Angelus was here, so here was *not* where I wanted to be. How sick could I possibly have been to have felt something from Angelus' kiss? I don't know. Maybe it's just because I haven't kissed anyone in over two years. But *Angelus* of all people? Well, vampire, actually. Besides, Dracon was in Sunnydale and I had vowed revenge at Jack's funeral. Now was the time to collect.
"You're sure you can handle this?" Jason asked me skeptically.
I shook myself out of my thoughts and replied, "I'm positive."
***
I watched from the window as my plane took off from the airport and began its flight to Sunnydale. I went over the plan one more time in my head.
I was supposed to set up a deal with Dracon, a weapons exchange to be more precise. My fake ID had been already been created, and I'd already contacted Dracon. The meeting was set for tomorrow night. My new name was Annie Graves, and I was sort of a free-lancer, on hire for a mob boss in New York looking for some good "merchandise." If all goes well, he'll produce the weapons and we can bust him. So goes the job of a detective.
After catching a few hours' sleep, I awoke to discover the plane was beginning it's descent into Sunnydale. I buckled my seatbelt and wondered whether or not Buffy and Xander would be home. I hadn't had time to let them know I was coming, but I figured I'd surprise them.
Well, at least I had gotten away from Angelus.
End Part 8
I walked the streets of Sunnydale, breathing in the relatively fresh air and remembering all of the things Buffy, Xander, and myself had experienced. Home sweet home. I could hardly believe I was back. But then again, I couldn't believe I had left, either.
I stopped in front of the house that I used to live in and noticed the "For Sale" sign on the front lawn. My parents had sent me an e-mail a few weeks ago saying that they were moving to LA. My dad's job had stationed him there. I was actually kind of glad they were leaving the Hellmouth.
"Five years, nothing much changed," came the voice from behind me.
I whirled around to face the very thing I was running from-- Angelus. I nearly burst out laughing. I didn't know whether to find this hysterical or be angry as hell. One thing was for sure: I was confused.
"What are you doing here? How did you get here? Why do you keep following me?" I bombarded him with the questions. He, of course, just stood there grinning like the Cheshire cat.
"We vampires have our methods of travel these days," he said. After exaggerating taking a deep breath, he continued, "Ahh, the Hellmouth. No other place in the world feels quite like this, you know?"
"Gee, that's all fine and dandy," I replied sarcastically, "but that still doesn't explain what you're doing here."
"I'd have thought that would have been obvious. Come on, Will. Don't you realize you're just plain fun to annoy?"
"Am I supposed to take that as a compliment?"
"You can take it any way you like," he said conversationally, "bottom line is, well, killing just isn't the way it used to be. Too much of it around. I like to be original."
"I'm sure you do."
"Point is, I've found it's more the thrill of the hunt, the chase, the game. More exciting, more entertaining. Of course the kill is still just as great, but it's not as satisfying anymore, at least not alone."
"That's great, really," I stated with as much sarcasm as I could, "so why don't you go play with someone else?"
"Because you're just so interesting," he exclaimed, grinning again, "oh, Willow, you didn't think I hadn't caught on to your emotions in our last encounter, did you? As mixed as they were, of course. You see, I was raised to sense people's feelings, and being a vampire sort of heightens that. Let's see. There was hate, annoyance, anger, fear, and…excitement."
I raised my eyebrow at him quizzically and asked, "And what gives you that idea?"
"Come now, Willow," he said, stepping closer, "you can't deny that I excited you," he brought his hand up and gently brushed his fingers against my cheek, leaving a trail of fire behind.
I tried to snap myself out of it, but had a hard time. It had been so long since anyone had ever kissed me, or touched me like that…
I finally managed to move my arms and push Angelus away. "Leave me alone," I commanded and began walking in the opposite direction only to have Angelus once again blocking my path.
"What do you want?" I practically yelled.
"You."
He again closed the gap between our bodies and placed another kiss on my lips, this time gentle, soft, delicate, teasing my lips until they responded of their own accord.
I closed my eyes and tired to pretend it was Jack that I was kissing, or even Oz, but I couldn't. Deep down, I knew it was Angelus, but I didn't care. All I wanted was to feel someone's kiss or touch. I was being selfish. I knew that Angelus was just playing some mind game on me, and I resolved that I wouldn't fall for it. It was just this once that I was playing along, using *him* for a change.
When the kiss finally broke, I found myself looking straight into Angelus' eyes, and I felt something odd. I put it to the back of my mind and said, "I have to go."
A small smile began playing across his lips and he stepped back, allowing me passage. I nodded slightly to him and hurried past, not once looking back.
End Part 9
I awoke the next morning feeling oddly refreshed. It felt strange being up with the sun, since I'm usually sleeping then. But I have a lot to do today, starting with Buffy and Xander. I wonder how they've been doing since I've last been here? Well, only one way to find out.
After getting ready, I headed for Buffy's house, figuring I'd probably find them there. As I stood in front of the door, I wondered how it would feel to see them again. I had missed everyone so much.
I took a deep breath and rang the doorbell, waiting for an answer. When the door swung open, I saw Buffy standing there, mouth agape.
"Oh my god! Willow!" she yelled. Before I could utter a word, Buffy was out the door grabbing me in a bear hug. "Willow! What are you doing here? How are you? When'd you get into town? Is everything alright?"
I laughed and put up my hands to get her to calm down. "Buffy, relax, I'm fine. Can I come in?"
"Oh, yeah, absolutely! Gee, what was I thinking? Come on!"
"Thanks," I said, smiling to myself. It felt good to be back. I stepped into the house and found it not much different from when I had left.
"Xander!" Buffy yelled, "Get your butt down here, now! Willow's here!"
I opened my mouth to protest the spoilt surprise, but in a flash I heard a pounding down the stairs and before I knew it Xander was standing in front of me.
"Wills!" he exclaimed, "you're here!" He, too, scooped me up into a huge hug, picking me up off my feet. I laughed as he spun me around the room, and begged him to put me down.
We ended up in the living room, and Buffy told me to have a seat. "So, you never answered my questions," she said.
"Right. Well, I got into town late last night, and I didn't want to disturb you, so I figured I'd check into a hotel and see you guys in the morning."
"Hotel?" Xander said with deliberately exaggerated distaste. "No buddy of mine is going to stay in a hotel while she's here visiting. You can stay with us, right Buff?"
"Absolutely," Buffy chimed in.
"I can't," I told them hesitantly, "truth is, I'm here on assignment."
"Police business?" Buffy asked.
"Yeah. Undercover. So I can't stay with you guys, 'cause I'm not supposed to know anyone in the town, and if I did, it'd totally blow my cover."
Buffy sighed and said, "I understand. So what's the case about?"
"Well, I can't really talk about it."
"Come on, Will," Xander said, "who're we gonna tell?"
I laughed at Xander's nosiness. Some things just never change. "It's a long story," I said, "so, what have you guys been up to?"
Buffy suddenly got a strange look on her face and I immediately knew she had something important to say. The connection we had formed as teenagers was still as strong as ever.
"Buffy?" I asked, "is something wrong?"
"No!" Buffy said hurriedly, "it's just that I got some news early this morning that I haven't told anyone about yet, not even Xander, and, well, you being here to hear my announcement, it just seems like a miracle."
I began wondering about all the possibilities that Buffy could have meant by that statement, but one in particular prevailed.
"Has my dear wife been keeping secrets from me?" Xander asked playfully, nudging Buffy slightly from his precarious position on the edge of the arm of the couch.
"Of course not," Buffy grinned, "so here goes…I'm pregnant."
I heard a loud thud and looked up to see that Xander had fallen from his seat and landed smack on his butt. I burst out in hysterical laughter, Buffy joining in.
"Oh, Buffy, that's wonderful!" I exclaimed, hugging her. Xander, still on the floor, repeated the word, "Pregnant?"
"He finally gets it," Buffy said, throwing her arms up.
"Yeah, about 10 seconds later," I chimed in.
Xander suddenly leapt to his feet and said, "Pregnant? How? Well, duh, I know *how,* but, when?"
"I went to the doctor yesterday, and she just called this morning letting me know the results of the test. It was a definite positive."
"I'm gonna be a daddy," Xander breathed, "I'm gonna be a daddy! You're gonna be a mommy! We're gonna be parents!"
I watched as Buffy and Xander hugged each other and couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy. Would I ever have that? The joy of knowing that in nine months I'd be a mommy? The joy of breaking the news to my husband? The joy of having a husband?
I cleared my throat as the two began kissing, reminding them that I was still in the room. They immediately broke apart and apologized. "Hey," Buffy said, "we should go tell Giles and mom the good news. What do you say, Will? I know Giles'd be thrilled to see you."
"I say that's a good idea," I smiled, "I'm actually looking forward to seeing him, too."
And off we went, to the library, just like old times.
End Part 10
I was actually a bit surprised that Giles was still working at the library after all this time, but Buffy told me that he liked working there, plus the fact that Principal Snyder was gone added an extra bonus.
When we got to the school, it was closed, since it was a Saturday, but I was surprised to see that Xander had his own key.
"Since when do you have a key to the high school?" I asked.
"Since I started teaching here," he replied, nonchalantly.
"You've got to be kidding!" I exclaimed. Xander? A teacher? That was the strangest, most absurd, most far-fetched thing I had ever heard.
'Yep," Buffy said, "who'd a guessed it, huh? He's actually a pretty darn good teacher, too."
I looked at Xander quizzically and he nodded his head, saying, "It helps that I used to be a class clown. I can spot any trick any student is about to pull. Some of 'em were actually pretty good, too. I wish I'd 'a thought of 'em when I was here."
"And what subject are you teaching?" I asked, trying to picture Xander standing in front of a bunch of students in a suit talking about "The Tragedy of Julius Caesar."
"Actually, I teach a history class," he replied defensively, "after all, I can get all of my info from Giles' old books," he grinned.
"Well, good for you, Xander," I said, feeling proud, "How long have you been teaching?"
"This was my first year," he answered, "it's a good thing Snyder's gone, too, otherwise I'd 'a never been hired."
"No arguments here," I said, remembering the pushy old midget whom no one liked.
We got to the library and found Giles puzzling over some old book. He hadn't changed a bit, I thought to myself, smiling.
"Ahem," Buffy said, clearing her throat to get his attention. Giles looked up from his reading and said, "Hello, Buffy, Xander, Willow…Willow!"
When he realized I was here he practically jumped out of his chair. "Willow," he said, "I didn't know you were planning a visit. How are you?"
"I'm fine, Giles, thanks. Actually, the trip here was sort of a last minute thing."
"Oh, I see. Well, unfortunately, you picked a bad time to visit,"
"How so?" I asked.
"Well, I think something is going to happen here, soon, but I can't figure out what."
"And this is new?" Buffy said, "I swear, you'd think after 8 years something would've changed, but noooo. The forces of darkness just don't know when to quit."
"You can say that again," came a voice from the doorway. I turned around to see the other slayer, Faith, walk through the door. "Hey," she said, "Willow, right? You're back."
"Yeah," I said. I had never really gotten the chance to get to know Faith all that well, but I was nonetheless glad that she was still alive.
"How are you?" I asked.
"Good. You?"
"Yeah, great."
"So," Faith said, "I heard something about something supposed to happen?"
"Yes, well, I'm not quite sure what, yet, but I'm looking," Giles replied.
"So, Buffy," I asked, "where's your mom?"
"She's at the gallery. There's supposed to be another show in a few days so she's been working a lot trying to get everything set up," Buffy answered.
"Oh. So you're probably gonna wait to tell Giles and Faith and your mom the news right?" I asked under my breath so the others wouldn't hear.
"Probably," she said, "I'd rather tell them all at once."
"Good idea. What are you gonna do about your job?"
"Which job? The slaying or the designing?" she answered jokingly.
"Well, both, I guess."
"Faith can take over the slaying for a while, but I'm gonna keep up with work at least until the last few weeks before this little guy's born."
I nodded my head as Buffy explained to me how things were going at work. She had become a fashion designer and landed a job with one of the biggest companies on the West Coast. She gets to work at home, though, and sends her designs to the company in LA. But she has to travel to and from LA frequently for shows and stuff.
I looked at my watch and noticed it was already about 4 in the afternoon. I had to get back to the hotel and get ready for my meeting that night with Dracon.
"Um, guys," I said, "it's been really great seeing all of you, but I gotta go now. You know, police stuff."
"You're here on business?" Giles asked, worried. He never really did get used to the fact that I was a cop. Come to think of it, neither did Xander. I think they both worried that I would get myself hurt. Buffy had a little more confidence in my abilities.
"Yeah," I answered, "it's an undercover thing, so if you see me anywhere in public, you don't know me 'cause I'm not Willow."
"Sounds dangerous," Xander said.
"Hey, well, you know, that's business," I said, trying to lighten the mood.
"Please be careful," Giles said.
"I always am," I replied.
"If you need anything," Buffy began, "let us know."
"I will. Bye."
As I walked out of the school, I began wondering what it would feel like to finally come face to face with Jack's killer.
I hope I'm not getting in over my head. This is going to be dangerous, but I don't need to worry everyone about it. After all, I dealt with Angelus. I can deal with this.
End Part 11
As I was getting ready, I stopped and surveyed myself in the mirror. The change was drastic. The leather pants were not only uncomfortable, but also annoying. I wonder how Angelus wears them all the time?
I shook my head to snap out of the direction my thoughts were heading, and continued applying my make-up. The lipstick was a mixture of red and brown, which matched the skin-tight shirt I was wearing. I applied an extra bit of eyeliner than usual and tied my hair up above my head, allowing a few strands to hang loose.
Slipping on a pair of black boots and a black trench coat, I took one last look in the mirror. I couldn't help but smile at the aura of mystery and danger the clothes gave me. I still found it hard to believe that this type of clothing was the best way to attract a mob boss, but results don't lie.
After checking around the room to make sure I hadn't forgotten anything, I headed out the door.
***
I arrived at the warehouse at exactly 8:00, as arranged. As I entered, I looked around hoping to spot someone, but the entire place was dark.
"Ms. Graves?" asked a voice from the shadows.
"The one and only," I replied, "and you are?"
The lights flickered on and I noticed the various people in the room. There were two men by the doorway behind me, one on my left side sitting casually at a table, another on the right, guarding a side exit, and one dead center in front of me, leaning sensuously against the wall.
"Victor Dracon," the man in front of me said, walking closer. He picked up my hand and placed a gentle kiss on the backside, "at your service."
I smiled slightly and pulled my hand away. "I'm not staying very long," I began, "so if you don't mind, I'd like to get down to business."
"I've always liked a woman who knows what she wants," he said, "and who goes after it. But tell me, have we ever met before?"
"Hmm, I don't think so."
"It's just that you look so familiar to me," Dracon said, trying to remember.
Could he have seen me before? Maybe when Jack was working for him? He might have sent someone to follow Jack and take pictures. Fear suddenly grabbed at me and I knew I had to think fast. If Dracon recognized me, there was no way I could get out alive, not with all his men standing around.
Why did I have to be so damn eager to catch this guy? I could have at least dyed my hair or something! How stupid!
"Tell me," Dracon began suspiciously, "have you ever met a Detective Jack Davis?"
I swallowed nervously and tried my hardest to not let him catch on to my fear. "Detective?" I asked, keeping my voice steady, "do I look like someone who would hang around a detective?"
"I'm not really sure," Dracon answered. He made a quick hand motion and before I could do anything, two of the men were beside me, grabbing my arms.
"The only detectives that have ever come anywhere near me have ended up dead," I stated.
"Really?" Dracon said, suddenly unsure of himself. Had I been convincing enough? Should I continue with the act?
"Oh, darling, what have you gotten yourself into?" came the sudden voice from behind me.
The men at my sides let me go and whirled around to stop the intruder. I, on the other hand, didn't need to turn around to recognize the voice.
What the hell does that son-of-a-bitch think he's doing here? He's gonna mess up my whole deal! I briefly considered throwing my concealed stake into his heart, but I knew that would only mess things up further.
I knew where he was going with this, though, and the only way to get out of this situation alive from both parties would be to play along. Damn, he was good.
"Hello, Angelus," I said, turning around slowly. "You're late. Now if you would please explain to these kind gentlemen here the purpose of my little visit?"
"Of course, sweet," Angelus said. He turned to Dracon and said, "I thought everything had been arranged over the phone a few days ago? Why all the sudden hostility?"
"And you would be?" Dracon let the question hang.
"Angelus."
"No last name, Angelus?" he pronounced the name with distaste.
"I like to keep my privacy," Angelus answered in a threatening manner, "now if you don't let my friend here go, I'm afraid I'll have to start playing rough, and you don't want to see rough."
Dracon nodded his head and the men stepped away from me. Angelus approached and wrapped his arm around my waist protectively.
"Terribly sorry for the misunderstanding Ms. Graves," Dracon said, "you're obviously not who I thought you were."
"Apology accepted. I guess I just seem to have that face."
"Indeed," Dracon agreed, eyeing Angelus wearily. "I wasn't aware, however, that you would be traveling with a companion."
"Oh, well, he just sort of sprung up out of nowhere," I explained, "he was on another assignment for Mr. Stenbeck. I hadn't expected to see him until I returned to New York."
"Ah, yes, the elusive Mr. Stenbeck," Dracon said, "and what is it exactly that he would like of me?"
"Well, he hears you supply for a variety of people. High quality. And a high-quality supplier is exactly what he's looking for," I stated, sticking with the script.
"Well, I supply lots of high-quality merchandise," Dracon answered, "you'll have to be more specific."
Lots of high-quality merchandise? We had only gotten news of an arms deal. What else could he be talking about?
"Arms, primarily," I began, "but Mr. Stenbeck is thinking of… spreading his wings."
"Really?" Dracon asked, interested, "how far?"
"Unfortunately, he didn't specify to me that information. All I've heard is that he's planning a deal with some Colombian guy for a few other things. Not my assignment, though, so none of my business."
"Smart girl. What's the matter with your friend here," he asked, motioning his head towards Angelus and accenting the word 'friend.' "He's awfully quiet."
"Well, since this wasn't exactly my charge, I'm not aware of all the details here. But I think Ms. Graves is handling things just fine," Angelus answered, accenting 'Ms. Graves.'
I smiled to myself as I realized Angelus wasn't as all-knowing as he'd like to be. He had no clue as to what my first name was supposed to be. But he handled the situation fairly well. I can't believe I'm actually feeling admiration for that creep.
"I'll tell you what," I intervened, "since things here definitely got off on the wrong foot, why don't we schedule a meeting for another time?"
"I'm a very busy man, Ms. Graves," Dracon began.
"Please, call me Annie," I cut him off. I can't believe I just gave that away to Angelus. But if he called me 'Ms. Graves' again, I'm sure Dracon would figure something was up.
"OK, Annie. I'm a very busy man. What incentive would I have to arrange another meeting?"
"What, an evening with me isn't incentive enough?"
"Not with the Hulk standing right behind you."
"Oh, I assure you, he won't interfere. In fact, he won't even be there, isn't that right, Angelus?"
"Of course," Angelus replied darkly, "none of my business, after all."
"I have to admit," Dracon said, "this Stenbeck sure knows how to pick 'em."
"Tomorrow night, then?" I asked.
"Tomorrow," Dracon answered, "until then," he bowed his head slightly.
And thankfully, Angelus and I walked out unharmed.
End Part 12
We had gotten about 50 feet from the warehouse before I dared to speak to Angelus. Finally my anger got the best of me and I unleashed at him.
"What the hell did you think you were doing?!" I yelled, "you could have ruined my entire plan!"
"I see the cat didn't get your tongue after all. I was wondering why you hadn't said anything earlier," he joked.
"That's besides the point," I fumed, "you had no right to interfere like that."
"Funny; it seemed to me like you were about to get yourself into serious trouble."
"I could have handled it--I WAS handling it."
Angelus suddenly stopped walking and moved to stand directly in front of me. "I saw that," he said, "you certainly have changed, Willow."
There was a strange tone in his voice as he said that, one I couldn't quite place. Admiration, maybe? Was it possible? Or was it just wishful thinking?
"Yeah, well, we can't all stay the same, now can we? By the way," I said, changing the subject, "how did you know about the phone call between Dracon and myself earlier?"
"I have eyes and ears everywhere," he replied with his cryptic smirk, "I thought you of all people would have known that."
"Yeah, whatever," I said as I began to walk away from him.
"Wait a minute, Hacker," he called as he caught up to me.
I couldn't believe he actually remembered that. In fact, I couldn't believe I was actually standing here having a conversation with a vicious, sadistic killer.
"What?" I asked, once again uncertain of exactly what I was feeling.
"Tell me why you clued me in back there--your name. And why you want to catch this guy so badly."
"Gee, Angelus, I'd have thought you'd know all of that by now, seeing as how you have 'eyes and ears everywhere'," I replied, quoting him.
"I'll fill you in on al little secret," he said, coming closer until he was whispering directly in my ear, "we vampires aren't as all knowing as we pretend to be."
Even though I tried to stop it, a huge grin broke out on my face. I guess it was what he said and the way he said it. For a second there, I thought his 'secret' would be something important.
"I could have told you that myself," I joked back. Now I really couldn't believe what was happening here: standing around exchanging jokes with Angelus of all people.
"Well, here's a side of you I haven't seen yet. I'm liking it, though. But you never answered my question," Angelus reminded me.
"I clued you in," I began, "so Dracon wouldn't get even more suspicious than he already was."
"So you did it to save your own skin?"
"Exactly."
"Aww, and here I thought you actually cared."
"In your dreams."
"And how would you know what I dream about at night?"
"It's a gift."
"One of many, I see."
I could feel myself starting to blush. This couldn't be happening. Of all people to be falling for…
"So why are you so eager to arrest that Dracon character?" he continued, repeating his earlier question.
I looked Angelus straight in the eyes for a moment, then looked at the gravel street below while responding, "He killed someone I was close to."
"Like I did?" he asked.
I looked back up and held his gaze, allowing the question to hang in the air. I had no idea how to respond to that.
"Look, Willow," he said, "I did what I did. I'm not sorry for it, I never will be. It's who I am. If you want to hate me, too, then fine. But know that I have no intention of hurting you, unless of course, I'm provoked," he grinned.
After seeing the expression on my face, he continued, "You've changed, Willow, I'll admit that. But there's still a lot of the old Willow in you, too. And quite frankly, I'm intrigued. You've got me hooked, Willow. You're like a drug. And I want more. And what I want, I get."
With that, he turned and disappeared into the night.
End Part 13