Parts: 6 - 11
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~Part: 6~
Lost;
The mansion cloaked in darkness and Angel found it hard for even him to see. He wandered into the living room then over to the kitchen opening the fridge where he kept his extra packages of blood. Taking two he drank them quickly not bothering to get his mug or heat them up to body temperature. His mind filled with the evenings events. He could see Riley falling over the edge over and over again. Angel tired to think of anyway he could have stopped the young man from falling to his death but he couldn't come up with any ideas how he could have stopped it. Once it was set in motion he was lost to stop it.
His brain still worked at the problem as he went and cleaned himself up. Washing the blood from his wounds and changing out of his bloodied clothes he still had no idea what to say to Willow. How would he convince her it was an accident. He had no intentions of killing Riley, well maybe that wasn't entirely true, he had thought about it. But he would never have followed through with his thoughts. Then another thought ran through his already chaos filled mind. Should he go back, back to her tonight. Could he tell her what he did and not lose her, not watch her eyes, once happy to see him turn to hate and fear.
He knew he really had no choice, he had to go back. She would more or less expect him now that he had made it clear that he wanted to be with her. So what was he to do but go back and face her. He would know then if he ever would have a chance, If she would forgive him. Angel knew this would be one of the hardest things he had ever done. But he also knew there was no way out of it. Win or lose, he would let her know how and why it happened. Telling her he was sorry was only the beginning for him, he would do all he could do, all that could be done to help her over Riley's death. Sure of only what he was going to do, Angel walked out of the mansion his stride determined and his mind made up.
The walk back turned into a run, racing his own fears back to her. Creatures that hid in the sewers watched as he went by so fast as to almost be nothing more than a blur even to them. Once back where he had to come above ground he slowed to a fast walk. Angel looked at his watch and noticed the time was around one AM. Not a good time to just go knocking on her door, she might not even be there. If the police had come by and Riley's body was picked up they would have questioned her, maybe even taking her to the police station. He didn't see any police or any evidence anything had happened there at all. He was unsure of what to do, at that moment he thought maybe he knew what had happened.
Angel looked down at his boots and then back at the apartment building doors. His face a cloud of thought, as he walked up the stairs and into those doors, then up the single flight of stairs it took to get to Willow's apartment. Staring at the door he raised his large hand to knock, but couldn't. Angel closed his eyes tight against the pain in his unbeating heart, letting his mind cover the last time they had been together. His need pushed out any thoughts he had of not knocking and he rapped gently. Holding an unnecessary breath as he waited for her to answer the door. He could hear her heart beating just on the other side of it. Could hear her walking toward the door, her slow soft steps echoing in his ears as if a blast had gone off. He heard the her movement as she must have been stretching to look out the peep hole. Then he heard the quick gasp and the whisper word, his name, coming from her lips.
His ears took note of everything, every sound, the door being unlocked, the knob being turned. It was all like some type of madness had entered him and he was in a time lapse, everything moved so slow. Every noise made all the louder by his fear, fear that she would now reject him and send him away. Something he was not willing and would not do. She needed him, and if she was to much in pain to understand that, he would simply wait it out until she did understand. Angel watched as the door opened way to slowly for him.
Then he saw her at last, her face was tear stained and very pale. She was still shaking as the sobs would over take her. Angel stood like a statue in her doorway, waiting for her reaction, waiting for her to yell and scream at him. He wasn't really sure why, she hadn't seen him and Riley together. She had no way of knowing that he had been the cause of what had happened. But at the same time he was sure his guilt would tell her what he had done. That somehow in his face she would see how he had caused Riley's death.
But she just looked up at him, almost as if she hadn't thought he would come to her. Willow's eyes, glassy with tears and wide with wonder and pain, told him that she was happy to see him. She grabbed him on the spot and wrapped her arms around him tightly. She was sobbing harder now and he let his arms come around her to comfort as he moved them into her little apartment. Angel closed the door behind him and then began brushing her fiery waves of hair down in place. Making soft noises he tried to calm her, letting her get what she needed to out of her system. After a few minutes her voice came up to him in broken gasps, " He,, left,, me,, he said he would stay,, and he left."
It was then that Angel knew what had happened for sure. Riley's military buddies had picked up his body and left with it. There was no body, no dead Riley to mourn, she didn't know he was dead, only that he was gone. Riley to her, had left of his own free will. What happened next Angel wasn't sure of, only that he was helping her and he wasn't the bad guy now. He would tell her what had happened he knew he would but just now he would not. He would allow himself this small amount of pleasure. Not in her pain, but in that she could comfort herself with him. He held her tighter and almost cried for this brief moment without his demon dealing the cards.
The Fates had given him a chance to spend a small amount of time with her. Just to hold her, to comfort her. What else could he ask for, it was more than he had hoped. More than he deserved, and he knew it. Angel could feel himself begin to cry, but he was quiet about it. Holding her, touching her hair, he was happy, happier than he had been in a very long time. For now that was enough and then he would tell her. Not now, he would wait until a better time. Maybe in a few more moments, maybe just a little longer.
An Angels Grace;
Willow stood long minutes at the window looking out into the darkness of the night. She really thought she had something with Riley. But now she just felt alone and used. Why did he leave like that, what was the reason for him to be her lover to make her feel like she was so loved only to leave. He had promised he wouldn't, but she knew she wasn't Buffy. He would have stayed for the slayer if she had gotten there in time. Being in time would not have helped keep Riley with her she thought. He had a job to do and she was just Willow. The thought did nothing to comfort her, and she wrapped her arms around herself, warding off her feelings of loss and guilt. She really had nothing to feel guilty about she told herself.
He was wonderful to her while she had him and he seemed to be very interested in her. Maybe his old group wasn't willing to take no for an answer. Maybe they kidnapped him more or less. She didn't think that was very likely but it helped her stay sane. She could feel the edges of her mind unraveling even as she was trying so hard to put it back together. It had not been that long ago she lost Terra, and Oz had left her in more pain that she cared to remember. What was it about her that made the ones she loved leave in such terribly painful manners. Just when she thought Riley would quell the pain in her and keep her safe from the worlds torments, he disappears. Well maybe not disappears, cause she knows where he went, or at the very least why he went. Not that it helped much when she thought of herself as number two again.
A small ironic smile cracked the corners of her mouth. Number two, that figures, since I feel like that I might as well be thought of that way. The tears began again and she decided it would be best to cry in the shower, that way she could pretend that she wasn't really crying. It was also the most cloistered place in her apartment and being in the more open areas was making her feel more alone.
Willow stepped from the shower, and let the water run off her body some before she toweled herself dry. Pulling on her fluffy robe she went into her little kitchen and made herself some coffee. Willow placed her hands on the counter and bowed her head trying to make some sense of what had happened over the past few hours. There was nothing she could think of that would cause Riley to do her this way, unless he had been playing with her to begin with. She really didn't want to think of that, it meant that she should have been much more on guard with the Iowa boy. But she knew that it would have been very hard to do.
He and Angel both provoked emotions in her she couldn't explain. She felt the tears begin again and she was almost angry at them. I don't want to cry anymore now, she thought. Her tears were not listening anymore than her feelings were less likely to be hurt because she didn't want to feel pain. She was in full sobs when she heard the someone at the door. Rubbing her hands like a child over her eyes and stifling her sobs she began to walk toward the door. Not sure who it could be, maybe it was Riley, she thought. But as quick as the thought came it left again. He would not have come back this soon, even if he was going to which she doubted as well.
Walking up to the door she raised up on her tiptoes to look out the peep hole. It was Angel, her heart skipped a beat, what was he doing here, she thought. She didn't really care, her fingers stumbled over the lock and door handle as she opened the door to Angel. He stood there looking as if he lost his best friend in the world, and she knew she had something to do with that. She had avoided him today to be with Riley. Now Riley had left her, after what he had said, she thought he would be with her. He had lied to her, she knew that now, and like the stupid little girl she had always been, she fell for it. Now Angel was standing before her and she had no clue how to act. His hands deep in the pockets of his pants he looked as if he were asking permission to do something he knew he would get told no for. Willow was trying not to cry in front of him but it was a lost cause.
She found herself nearly tackling Angel and burying her face in his chest, sobbing her heart out. He seemed surprised by this but held her close and moved them inside the apartment closing the door behind them. She began choking out that Riley had left, that he had said he would stay but left. She could feel Angel holding her closely and petting her cooing words at her like it's gonna be all right, I am here now. She took comfort in them and knew that of all her friends, Angel, would not go. He would stay and take care of her until she asked him to leave. Then he would do whatever she needed him to do, and she wanted that more than anything. She was feeling lonely, ugly, rejected by the world in a way. But then here was Angel holding her sweetly telling her it would be OK. She had no idea how it would be OK, but if Angel said so in her pain ridden mind, he must be right.
She sighed in his arms and her sobbing slowed to a stall. Clinging to him she pressed her lips to his collar, and she heard his sudden intake of air. His arms drew her to him tighter and she sigh in the coolness of his embrace. Willow slid her arms from around his neck and back up under his duster. Her fingers tracing the curves of his well muscled back through his silky shirt. Willow took a deep breath letting the scent of sandalwood and musk fill her lungs. Angel went stone still and let her do as she pleased, the tension in him creating curiousness in the witch to do further exploration. Raising up on her tip toes she landed a kiss the side of his throat.
Angel gave a light moan and pushed her from him looking at her face. Searching for what she was thinking, if she was thinking. His dark eyes covered every inch of the pale skin from her neck to her forehead, then to her light green eyes and over the tresses of still damp copperish hair. She looked haunted to him, like she wasn't really with him at the moment. Only reacting to the physical nearness of him. He wasn't sure he wanted to have her this way, she was to confused about what had happened. He knew he had better wait until he could tell her what he had done. So he began to pull back only to have her raise her delicate hands to his face. He could hear here words, but didn't understand what she was saying. Her fingers were creating a fire in him he knew he should run from.
Witches Resolve;
Willow wondered why he backed from her but saw his dark eyes watching her face, and she knew. He didn't want her on the rebound, she understood this but she didn't register what it really meant. Only that he had pulled away and she wanted him to stay close to hold her to warm her so she wouldn't feel alone anymore. She wanted him stay with her and help her deal with this. If he left now she would only cry herself to sleep and she was already tired of crying. Nope, no more crying for me, I will do whatever I need to not to cry anymore, her resolve face on, she caressed his cheek and raised up again brushing her lips lightly against his.
It was like an electric shock, the brief kiss she had given was almost more than he could stand. She felt him shaking and heard him pull on unneeded air. Willow looked up at him standing there in front of her and wondered which of them was really more vulnerable at this moment. She guess it was him and she took good use of the thought. If nothing else he would simply reject her like everyone seemed to be doing.
So Willow choose to push her luck and reached up curling her hands around Angel's neck and pulling him down into a deeper version of their last kiss. Parting her lips ever so slightly and slipping her little tongue over his lower lip in a silent request. She felt it when his control broke and his hands went round her lifting her body against his tight enough for her to feel every inch of him. Her mind went aflame when she understood that he wanted her. Feeling his need for her in his bodies reaction to their kiss. At least he wanted her body and for now that would be enough for her.
She wanted the comfort he could give her, his body could take away her pain quicker and better than liqueur or time. She knew it was only temporary but she needed to feel that someone wanted her, and Angel seemed to be giving her that. He groaned as if he were in pain, struggling with his emotions, with his demon, she didn't really care right now. He was kissing her touching her and she was enjoying the feeling of it. He left her mouth and trailed kisses down her neck nibbling as he went and she threw her head back in a deep throated sigh. Her voice came to him in a ragged breathy whisper, that only he could have ever heard. "Love me Angel...... please"
It was a whisper, he was almost sure would destroy his mind entirely. His demon was drooling at the way she was giving herself over to them, and had little ideas for Angel to do. The inner monster would say, take her, mark her, make her your mate. She would belong to us and no one would ever come between us again. It wouldn't matter that you kill the boy, it wouldn't matter to her anymore after she is ours. But Angel, even though he was sure he would have her tonight knew also that he would not mark her, not tie her to him until he was sure she wanted to be. This was a way of comforting her, and he wanted to believe that. It was all she was really wanted his comfort. He also knew being over 240 didn't make saying no to what was your hearts desire, impossible. He didn't want to say no, and wasn't sure he could if he had to.
Angel nuzzled her shoulder and lifted her in his arms, lifting his mouth to hers again. She moaned deeply and twined hands around his neck holding him to her tightly. Walking deliberately to bedroom, nudging her hair from her pale shoulder closest to him, he landed soft kisses along that shoulder and up the side of her neck. Willow only shivered lightly and cuddled closer to his large frame.
The bedroom is dark but Angel saw everything well enough to place her in the center of her full size bed. Standing in the glow of the moonlight that shone from her window he began to undress for her. He slipped off his duster easily and watched her face as he began to tug gently at the buttons of his shirt. Every movement revealing more of his solid chest to her hungry eyes until he dropped the shirt onto the floor. Willow's face was filled with awe and lust, he smiled knowing that he was the only one she was thinking about now. But that thought lead him to another, if it wasn't for him....
Just then Willow sighed his name and moved to the edge her bed. Angel felt her tiny hands running over his now bare upper body and little kisses followed the trail her fingers took. She stood up and walked behind him letting her hands and lips make gentle contact that stopped his movements while his skin caught fire. Once behind him she reached her arms around him and unbuckled his belt pulling it from it's loops. Then repeating the action she undid his pants and slid them down his slim hips. Angel couldn't stand much more of her touching him without returning the favor. So he groaned deeply and turned catching her wrist as she started to slip his boxers from him. Turning around he faced her and sat on the edge of her bed. His face coming about where her breasts were, he pulled her closer to him and tugged at her robe, pushing it over her shoulders and letting it fall. Angel lightly kicked off his shoes and the pants from his feet leaning into her body feeling her warmth and nuzzling her breasts not wanting to rush the evening.
Even as he knew she was giving herself to him in the wake of pain she was feeling, he couldn't stop, he needed her. What more was there to think, if this is the only way he could have her then so be it. He would do his best to make her happy, to give her pleasure. He could feel her hands in his hair, smell her arousal all around them. She was not willing to wait long, and pulled his head back by his hair, levering herself lower, giving him a plundering kiss he had not expected. Angel's reaction was overpowering his reason. He twisted himself while holding the kiss and nearly tossed her onto the bed. Climbing up to her letting his body move over hers as he kissed and nibbled his way back to her lips. Then back down again paying special attention to her rosy nipples and belly button. Angel ran both hands back up her body touching and committing to memory every line and curve of her. Then ran his hands back down her sides as he nuzzled her lower curls. The intake of a breath normally unneeded to his kind was more to assure him of her willingness.
Willow squirmed and wiggled, her sighs and moans coming to his ears like a song on the breeze. It enticed him and encouraged him to keep up his tender assault. She was at her peek when he changed tactics and delivered a mind shattering attack on her senses, making her tumbled over the top instantly. Her body shaking and grasping at thin air, she screamed his name. She could feel him purring against her and her shivers were doubled, tremors of delight sent her over the edge again. Willow was now clawing at him, pulling him up to her. He moved slowly letting her feel how much he wanted her and she moved her hands so that as he came up he lost the last barrier between them.
She could see Angel had slipped into his other visage, but was far from caring. Willow pulled Angel's mouth to hers in a searing kiss and wrapped her legs around him forcing his erection closer to where she wanted him to be. He nearly growled when she touched the length of him, guiding him into her. Angel was not going to let her control this, so he did not push into her yet. Willow gave a sigh of frustration and bit his lower lip hard enough to draw blood and Angel lost it. He slammed into her with a force that caused her head to reel back, her mouth opening in a satisfied moan. The pleasure blocking out everything she had been feeling before. He waited for her to adjust to him, and when she tried to move under him he started a slow powerful rhythm that would send them both reeling. Angel lowered his now bloodied lips to Willow and kissed her deeply mimicking the movements of their joining.
She tasted his blood in the kiss but could not think of anything but the feel of him inside her. Filling her beyond what she thought she could take. He was amazing and she absently, between the flood of feelings, thought about what happens when blood is exchange between human and vampire. The thought didn't last long and she felt herself being raised up so that she sat on his lap. Her legs were wrapped behind him and he was not letting her go and he moved them into a sitting position. Over and over he pumped into her as she left trails of wet kisses and soft bites up over his shoulders and neck. Willow felt herself spinning out of control again, but this time Angel came with her and they both fell into a heap over each other. His now heated member spilling cold seed within the deepest part of her.
She had felt his teeth at her neck but never once did he bite her. For a moment she wondered why, but didn't ask. Willow didn't want to know why he didn't bite her. Wasn't ready to hear that she was good for a night and then he would be gone too, like Riley had left.
Penitent Angel;
He could feel her retreat from him, like she was crawling into a shell. Angel had no idea why she was pushing him away now of all times. They had just made love for the first time and she was nearly frantic trying to get him away from her. He watched as she curled up into a ball and began to sob again. His heart twisted into knots wondering what he could do to help her. But she was not interested in his help, still he would not let it go and he forced his way closer to her. When she started kicking and hitting at him he still would not give her up to her pain and he pulled her into his arms. Hugging her tightly and whispering in her ear. "Willow, please don't. It's going to be OK I will always be here, please Willow." His voice was strained and raspy as he tried to calm her. He began rocking her gently and cooing to her soft mummers of affection. She let herself become quiet and settled in his arms, her exhaustion taking it's toll on her body she fell into a deep sleep. Angel just held her close and listened to her breathing, to her heartbeat. The stillness making his fears come alive again.
He was in awe of what had just happened and ashamed as well. He told himself he never should have let it go this far. He still had to tell her what he had done and now it would be worse because of what they had shared tonight. He was still rocking her gently as his mind raced on and on over what he should have done instead of what he had done. His body didn't agree with him, it and his demon were very happy, except that his demon had screamed for her blood, just a taste if nothing else. But Angel knew that if he had tasted her she would be his mate. She had already taken some of his blood he only had to feed some from her to complete the binding to him and he would never let her go no matter what it cost her.
He couldn't do that to this wonderful girl. Couldn't make that choice for her, she had to want to be his before he would do that and he was pretty sure she would not want him after he told her about what had happened. Letting himself fall in to a light slumber his mind filled with terrible images of Riley falling and Willow hating him, trying to kill him even. He knew somewhere in his mind that if she did try to kill him there would be nothing for him to live for and he would let her. He himself had tried to die a few times. Would it matter if she did it, if she hated him that much that she wanted him dead, he would except that. Angel woke with a jump, escaping the latest in the dreams he was having about how she would react to him once he told her the truth.
Angel woke with a start from one of the dreams that had plauged his mind, and gently stood up letting Willow move away from him. He walked round the bed and watched her. Pink twinge beads of his sweat rolled off his forehead arms, back and chest. He was more or less soaked and felt the need to wash up. Willow still asleep in the bed where he had been, Angel walked over to her side and carefully lifted her so that she could be move away from the dampness. She moved her head into his chest and wrapped her arms around his neck in sleep driven need for comfort.
He laid her on her little couch and covered her with another blanket. Then made his way to the shower, turning the water up as hot as possible. Maybe if he scalded his skin off he would feel clean again. He would not feel like he had just stolen something and destroyed her faith in him. Angel laid his head on the shower wall looking up at the ceiling and letting the hot water run over him burning his skin turning it red. But he felt he was getting off light, he deserved to be beaten to death. Or maybe another trip to hell would make him a better person. This time he could just stay there and leave poor Willow to deal with her pain alone.
No, he knew he couldn't do that either, he had to be here to help her if he could. Let her make the choice if she wanted him dead, it would be the only way he would leave. He change positions and grabbed the nearest shampoo, lathering up his head and rinsing it and letting the soap travel down his body in streams. He nearly rubbed his body raw with a cloth and rinsed again, stepping quickly out of the shower he toweled off and wrapped it around his waist.
Angel walked into the living room and checked on Willow she was still sleeping and he went back to her bed changing the linens replacing the coverlet with another. He thought aimlessly that he would have to get her a new set of bed clothes. Angel dropped the soiled bed clothes in a hamper and went to get Willow. He picked her up with ease and padded back to her bed, letting her down easy on it. He covered her up and started to walk away when he heard her mummer to him," Angel, mmm, where are you."
Her voice was full of sleep and he could feel his body react to her lazy tones. "I am right here," he whispered to her as he went to sit next to her on her side of the bed. He needed to get dressed so he would not make matters worse right now. But she lifted her thin arms up to him and pulled his body toward her. "Hold me," was all she said and Angel could in no way leave her embrace, instead he pushed her over some and cuddled in close to her letting his hand trace her features and play with her fiery hair.
So beautiful, he thought, how am I ever going to be able to give this
up.
Still in his towel and laying next to her he felt a little uncomfortable.
Angel reached and pulled the towel from him inching up enough to move it.
He dropped the thing on the floor and wrapped his arms around her holding
her semi sleeping form tight enough to restrict her movement. In his mind
his demon screamed, " mine,, mine,.
Brooding Muse
Willow woke with Angel wound around her in a protective cocoon. His naked arms and legs imprisoning her effectively enough that she knew she would have to wake him to get to the bathroom. She raised her head up so that she could look around him for away to move without disturbing him. But there was no way to do that, so she just watched him as he laid with her. His arms around her waist and legs curled over and in-between hers. She knew if she moved one inch he would notice. Willow gave a rue smile and wondered if he had done that on purpose.
Memories of what they had shared last night overcame her other thoughts and she winced, knowing that she had taken advantage of his love for her. She still wasn't sure what she felt for him, even though she knew it was powerful. Her feelings were still a blur to her reason. Her body trembled at the remember actions of last night and she knew that she would be more than happy to repeat them. But at this very moment she was feeling the need to relive herself, so she would have to wake him.
It was then that she looked him over in earnest. His body like chiseled stone, yet soft and supple. His face was marked with tension even in his sleep but she wasn't sure why he would feel that way. Was he worried how she would react to the fact that they had made love? Angel was always giving himself more of the guilt than was ever nessarey. She was as much to fault over this as he was, and she would not let him take all the blame. She felt both warmed and chilled, her mind wanting to be happy for what she and Angel had shared. At the same time, she was chilled by the loss of Riley. She knew she could deal with him being gone, so many of her friends had left her behind. The only thing she didn't understand is why he would profess such deep feelings telling her that he would stay with her, only to leave within hours of his pledge. Disposable, that's what I am, she thought.
In a flash she was in tears again, not just tears of pain this time, but tears of anger. Suddenly she didn't care what Angel would want and she shoved him from her bed. He woke with a start and sprawled out on the floor with a thump. In Willow's mind Angel could easily do the same thing. He and Riley almost showed up at the exact same time, who was to say the fates were not making a fool of her with these men.
"What the." Angel's voice trailed off and she pounce out of bed and trotted off the the bathroom. He only sat there on the floor stunned and worried. Willow started the shower and did her business letting the water steam up the room before stepping into the hot water herself. This gave her time to think alone, or so she thought. A very light knock on the door told her Angel was not going to give in that easily. "What Angel" she said her voice frustrated at the intrusion. "Um, are you OK." Angel asked on the other side of the door. " I am fine, I will be out in a few." Willow dismissed him with those remarks and she could almost sense the pain coming from him.
She let the water pour over her and slammed her fists into the shower wall, feeling the power in her surge. I could bring Riley back to me, I could show him it wasn't a good idea to play with the affections of a very powerful witch. Her eyes began to turn black and she slammed them shut as well. Willing herself to calm, willing her mind to be still and her heart to grow cooler. She only needed to meditate some and she would regain control of her powers, if nothing else.
The shower didn't take her long and she was half dress by the time Angel came back into the bedroom, a tray in his hand. His face a mixture of grim determination, and hopeful wonder. He kinda looked cute in his pants only, and she tried to smile but she was only able to give a weak version of her normal one. Angel took that as a good sign. At least she isn't blasting me into bits, he thought with a hint of humor. Not that he didn't deserve anything she could dish out, and he had some idea about how much that could be. He was only glad she hadn't, yet.
"What is that," Willow pointed at the tray in his hands. He smiled and pulled one hand from under the tray and pointed things out. "Well this is brie, and those are crackers, clubs I think."His smile took on a wicked gleam as she threw an evil look his way. " I just thought you might be, hungry," he finally conceded. Willow looked at him and her faced cracked a smile, just starting at the corners but then it moved to the rest of her face. She bagain to shake her head and plopped down on the edge of the bed waving him to come on over so she could snak. Chewing happily on a cracker she had snatched even before he could put the tray down, she asked, "Where's my drink?"
~Part: 7~
A Time of Waiting;
Angel was picking up the plate and returning it to the sink when Willow began crying again. His reaction was one of worry,and he turned to her. " What can I do to help Willow" his voice sincere he sat on the edge of the bed and brushed crimson waves from her eyes. Willow only looked at him and shook her head. " I don't understand you Angel, you should hate me now," her voice cracked with her feeling. The look on his face could not have been more surprised. "What do you mean, little one, you have done nothing to me," In his mind he replayed the events of the night before. His demon clawing and begging to have more this morning, Angel forced it back down. He watched Willow closely, his mind wondering what was going to happen next. She only lowered her head not allowing Angel to seek her eyes.
Somewhere from her point of view, if I don't look at him I wont have to deal with the pain he is going to feel. She knew she couldn't be with him, not really anyway. Telling him was the next big step and she really didn't want to do that. She had enjoyed their night, but that's all it was for her. She couldn't let it be anymore until she was more in control of her feelings. More in control of her heart and pain, she would have to be in order to deal with what was happening to them. Angel waited for her to start, he had no idea what she was going to say. But somehow he wasn't feeling good about it. When she finally met his gaze, he could see her eyes were glassy with unshed tears. He wanted to reach out and hold her but when he tried she shrank back from his touch. The concern in him gave him voice and he asked, " What is it Willow?". She only smiled unhappily and shook her head. Her voice was small and almost painful to hear as she spoke simply to him, "Angel, I am sorry, but I can't be with you." She checked him for reaction before going on, "I, she turned her head and looked at the heavy curtains on the widows, can't deal with anyone right now, last night was a mistake, and , and I am sorry".
Her tears began to fall full force now and powerful sobs shook her body so that she nearly convulsed. Angel reached out to her and pulled her into an embrace, petting her head, he talked to her in low tones. "It's all right Willow, please, I am here for you, and you don't have to be like this, you don't have to worry about me." He wanted to tell her, felt he had to tell her, he was not worth what she was doing to herself, he was the reason she was feeling like this. But he just couldn't tell her that Riley was dead. Not simply gone, but dead, that would mean no hope at all. If she only thought Riley as gone on his own, then she might still have hope that he would change his mind. As funny as that seemed, for Angel to want, he did want it, wanted Willow to have hope. He held her in his arms for a long time before she pulled from him and gave him a weak smile. "Well, I guess that means you are not angry with me," her voice was shaky but she had gotten most of the tears out. She sat in front of him and dried her eyes with the back of her sleeve. Her green eyes redden with all the crying she had been doing of late.
Angel decided he would ask nothing of her and would just help her all he could. He had to let go in order for her to heal, and she had to heal to know that she could love again. He wanted her love, but was not willing to cause her more pain in the process. He would have to tell her and soon, then he would have to wait it out and hope. Right now he would just be there for her and watch her to make sure she would be OK. Somehow he would find a way to make it all up to her. Somehow, but he really knew that would not be possible. He had done one of the worst things possible and he didn't know how to take it back. There was no way to make this better. Angel swallowed hard and looked up at Willow, maybe he should tell her now. She would be very angry but it would be over, out of the way and he wouldn't have it hanging over his head like this.
Confessions;
Willow looked Angel over and had to wonder what he was thinking. She knew she had dealt him a dirty hand this time but she didn't know what else to do. It would be horrible of her to lead him on anymore than she had. Seeing his face play so many emotions she didn't understand, why was he not saying anything, he should have been angry with her. But she didn't see why he was so quiet, so she just waited. He looked as if he would cry and she wanted so badly to understand.
His voice trembled as he told her how he came to see her and found Riley and her together. How he asked Riley if they could talk and they had met on the roof. The words just seem to flood out of him as he stared at the floor. He told her that he and Riley had an physical confrontation, and how Riley had fell from the top of the building. Angel glanced up once to see her face and was not surprised to see her eyes flashing from green to black then back again in an instant. He told her that he had meant to say all this before, to beg forgiveness. Or at the very least that she would let him help her until she felt she was OK. Angel began ramble, as he tried to convey his confused emotions at her reaction to him when he had gotten there last night. That he had not intended what had happened either but that he didn't have the strength to say no at the time. He was, is, after all in love with her and she needed him. How could he say no, he just wished he had been able to tell her before they were together. He didn't want any secrets between them. Most of all he was sorry, but he knew that didn't really do any good. When Angel finally stopped he felt exhausted, and fearful. Not of what she might do to him, but of what she might think of him, how she might turn away from him and never look back.
She had no idea what to say to make him stop, Willow didn't want to hear Riley was dead. That she wasn't left behind, oh yes she was glad about that, she didn't want to be just left behind. But then there was that little factor, Riley is dead. Her mind went blank, darkness overtook her once and she felt like she was going to faint. How could Angel be telling her this, what had she thought, he was on the roof with Riley? They had a fight, over her, NO! Riley had died because he loved her, it was like she was a curse on those that cared about her. Riley is dead and Angel is to blame, or so he says, the fates have had fun with this one. She could feel the power rise up in her and she wanted to unleash her anger on something, someone. But really, was Angel to blame, or was she really the evil one. That just made better sense to her, after all Oz left her because he killed someone over her, Tara died right in front of her. Now Angel was telling her that Riley was dead and that somehow he was the cause of it, he pushed Riley and he had tripped over something, falling off the roof. Falling to his death, that word echoed in her mind.
Willow got up very slowly and backed away from Angel who tired to get close to her again, tired to pull her into his arms again. But she would have none of it, she heard her voice scream the words at Angel. "Get out, leave me alone, get the hell away from me." Her voice in ear splitting jagged tones as she yelled so loud that her voice threaten to give out. There was nothing he could do but leave. Angel stood and began to walk out of the small apartment. He picked up clothes and shoes as he went, his heart sank and he headed for the door. He took one last look at her on her bed before he went to the living room and out the door. She was curled up into a ball in the center of the bed her knees pulled up to her chest. He wanted to help her somehow, but had no idea what to do to help. He had in his mind something, or rather someone he wanted to go see over this. Only problem was he wasn't sure how he would be received after all this time. It didn't really matter to him now, she was the only one he was thinking of and he had to help her somehow. Walking out the door he paused and listen to her weeping, it would have broken his heart if it were still beating.
Friends Intervention;
Xander walked to his car from the store, his years with the Slayer alerted him to Angel's presence and he turn to face the vampire. "Hey deadboy," Xander's eyes narrowed as he watched Angel stride closer. He didn't really know what to expect of him, but he was sure he really didn't want to know. Whatever it was, it couldn't be good, and Xander felt like there had been enough "not good" going on for the Scoobies of late. "Hey, Angel watched for Xander's reaction and noted it was not welcoming, not that he thought it would be. The lights of the parking lot shone down making mini spots on the ground around them, Angel walked in and out of the lights as he approached. "And just what is it I can watch you squirm over this time." Xander was careful not to let Angel get to close to him, he wasn't sure if he was dealing with Angel or Angelus at this point and didn't want to find out the hard way. "Well, fact is I really would like to talk to Giles." Angel's face took on a grim expression as Xander shook his head. "The G-man isn't in today, but if you will write a note I will get it to him for you" Angel simply replied, "It's about Willow," A worried look covered Xander's dark features, "What is up with my Wills, what have you done."
The accusation in his voice made Angel wince. He had known that Xander would not be happy with what was going on of late with him and Willow. But he did expect Xander to listen first. It wasn't what he had done to Willow, he thought, but what he had done to Riley. He had to figure out a way to tell them why that would hurt Willow so much without telling them more than they needed to know. "Can we go see Giles, Xander, I really don't have time for this, and it won't help Willow." the frustration in his voice was obvious even to Xander. "Yeah, OK," Xander waved Angel to get into the car and they left going to Xander's apartment.
Not much was said on the way, both took wary glances at each other. Once there and into Xander's place, Angel asked about Spike. The thought that the blonde vampire might be some help had crossed his mind but he dismissed it quickly. Spike was still dealing with his own demon, and wouldn't be much help he thought. Xander mumble something about Spike that didn't sound encouraging anyway. Xander began looking for Giles' number on his desk. Angel stood near the middle of the room and watched, waiting for him to find what they needed. Once that was found Xander turned on Angel and asked, "So what is this all about Angel? Why do you need Giles' help, has Willow gone all dark powerful witch again?" Angel didn't know what to say to that, so he just shook his head. "Then what," Xander was nearly demanding now. Willow was after all his friend, he had known her when they were children together. If Angel was keeping something about Willow that was important from him he was going to know what.
Angel looked at the man before him and tried to remember the boy he had been. This Xander had grown up and was more in command of his feelings and more aggressive in his tactics. But then it had always been in him, Angel remember when the Master arose and Xander had tracked Angel down so they could find Buffy. He would not let her just die and he was now not going to let whatever was up with Willow go by him either. Xander gave him a look that would have kill lesser vampires as Angel told him what had happened and why he was there now. He of course left out a lot of the more intimate nature of some things. But he didn't think Willow would mind that, in fact she would likely be glad he had choose not to say somethings. Still with each passing moment Angel thought Xander was more and more willing to stake him on the spot.
Xander had actually thought of keeping Angel here until daylight and then drawing back all the curtains in his place. He had known for sometime that Angel was enamored of their favorite witch, but he had not known how much. If what Angel was saying was true, then she had choosen Riley over him anyway. That was a good thing in Xander's mind, good that she had the sense to see through deadboys crap. But he wasn't sure about the whole thing with Riley, what would make solider boy decide on Willow as his girl friend. It wasn't that Xander didn't see what was attractive about her, he had himself seen that attraction she had when he was with Cordy. The thought was Riley had been in love with Buffy and when he left and came back he thought he remembered Buffy saying that Riley had gotten married. So where was Riley's wife? Or was there something else happening that he didn't know about yet. Xander looked at Angel and started to speak, but Angel cut him off. "So do you think since Willow could be near losing control that we could talk with Giles now." his voice curt and angry. Xander said nothing to him, he only went to his phone and sat down dialing the number in his hand.
Angel watched quietly and moved his weight back and forth from one foot to the other in restlessness. Xander was only able to get a message to him, and he was not real happy about that. He knew that Giles would get back to him as soon as possible. He didn't worry about that, it was the time frame that scared him. After all if Willow was going evil again, they didn't really have much time to wait. Xander stood and walked Angel to the door, "You need to get out of here, Angel, it will be daylight soon, and you can leave us to clean up," his tone was biting. Angel didn't like being dismissed like that but he knew he would have to get back to his mansion before daybreak. He could always come back and see what was happening with Willow, and what Xander had found out about Giles. Xander watched the dark vampire stride out the door and into the night. Then he went and got his jacket, picking up his keys, deadboy may not be able to help Willow. But he was sure going to try, after all, he was her friend.
Returning Balance;
It had been five weeks since Willow had found out that Riley was gone. In those weeks, she had tried to deal with her pain and deal with Angel. She had found him to be very helpful over all but she didn't feel right about being with him and was still in much guilt about the one time they had been lovers. She knew that at the time she was more or less out of her mind, but at the same time blamed herself, because she didn't really give Angel much choice. How many men, without an inner demon like Angel had, could have said no to someone they thought they wanted. Willow had to admit that if he didn't love her he was putting on a good show of it. If it were not for Xander she might have let Angel into her life, in her weaken state emotionally she was no match for his attentions.
She had relied heavily on Xander, he never let her forget who she was and that she still had to work through some things, after losing Riley that Angel needed to stay out of. Both men had been to see her on a daily bases so that she never really had a lot of time to brood over what had happen. Angel had told her the full story, again so that she could understand better what had happened. Why Riley was not returning to her, and likely never would. Willow thought about doing the same spell for him that she had done for Buffy. But after what she went through with Tara she wasn't willing deal with being refused by the powers again. Willow sat in her living room watching an old movie that she had seen a dozen times. She heard the knock at the door and made a face, it was nice of them but she really didn't want to see Xander of Angel tonight. It had been a very bad day over all and now it was around ten PM. She only wanted to be alone, she really couldn't stand another pep talk. The knock came again, Willow stood up and walked slowly to the door. Her hair a mess and her tears staining her pretty face, she was pale and looked as if she needed rest badly. Resigned to another night of "poor Willow" from her friend or the dark vampire she opened the door.
Giles looked her over and smiled sadly, "Willow, umm may I come in". His voice was calm but worried, as she nodded him into her little box apartment. "Hey, Giles, nice to see you, she sounded monotone and kinda worn. As she walked back into the center of the living room, she waved a hand showing him in. Giles entered into her little apartment and walked around to her couch. "Um, yes then, he began his voice trembling slightly, Willow I came as soon as the new Watcher council let me. They are in desperate need at the moment." He watched her as she simply nodded her head and walked into her little kitchen retrieving the tea pot there so that she could make tea for her and Giles. They talked and she told him as much as he had already heard from Xander and Angel. It was all a surprise in that Riley had actively wooed Willow and more or less won her affections only to be kill that very night. The worse was the fact that Angel had something to do with it.
Giles couldn't help but wonder if Angelus had a part in this. Maybe it wasn't really Angel, but his demon in charge of his body. Giles' thoughts ran back to when he found Jenny, her body arranged so that she looked as if she was welcoming him to her, when in fact her neck had been broken. Angelus hadn't even fed from her which meant he didn't need to feed only that he wanted her dead, and Giles to deal with it. A shiver ran up his spine, at the idea of Willow having to deal with Angelus, pretending to be Angel. That would explain why Riley was dead, why Angel was still around. If he truly wanted the witch no one or no thing would stop him. But Giles knew he would try, life or death, wasn't the point anymore, saving Willow was. She didn't seem to believe that it was Angelus, she had assured Giles of that. But he knew he would have to find out for himself. It would be the only way he would be OK with what had happened. If Riley had truly fell on accident he would find out, one way or another.
He thought about certain spells he could perform that would allow him to see what had happened on the spot where Angel said it had happened and he was ready to go there now and find out. Except for the fact that humans don't do well roaming the streets of Sunnydale at night. Thinking better of it he took to Willow's idea that he could sleep on the couch for the night and they would start the next day.
Times Virtue;
Early the next morning they both woke to the steady knocking of Xander. Willow let him in and went to sit down rubbing her eyes in a childlike fashion. Xander spoke in hurried tones, watching both Giles and Willow for their reactions. " Well looks like deadboy is going to stay in Sunnydale, at least for a while. " Willow didn't really say anything but Giles face became animated and nearly enraged. He stood and got some things from his bag and he nodded to Xander to follow him. Giles strode up the flights of stairs it took to reach the roof with very little problem, Xander close behind. In the mornings light he stood near where Angel had his fight with Riley and began to pour a salt circle and light candles. Having done that he added some chanting to it and waved a small smudge stick light so the smoke billowed around them.
"Ent karmas nat' ta'ne los rean turnus" he chanted over and over again until the smoke from the smudge stick doubled , and tripled cutting off their visual of the roof at the moment, but creating images of it's own, inside the smoke. Giles looked on in interest as the pictures of the past events came into view. He could see that Angel had been telling the truth, but he also saw something that made his heart drum in his chest. Once the smoke had cleared, he was able to return to Willow. She had not wanted to see what ever had happened but was waiting to know for sure from him.
Giles entered the apartment with Xander hot on his heels. The two men looked at each other and nodded, Giles walked over to Willow and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Willow, I um, want you to sit for a moment." his voice was excited and she wondered what he could have seen that would make him this way. She walked over the a chair at her little table and sat down watching him as he joined her. Giles sighed deeply and looked at Willow, hope etched in his face as he began. Willow wondered what he was waiting for, she wanted him to tell her whatever was up. The faster the better, her mind reasoned, since she was already in pain over the whole thing, it would only be of help to her to find out that Angel had not hurt Riley for spite. The idea that it had been an accidental was the only thing she had left to hold on to. If Giles was going to tell her that it wasn't an accident she would go insane on the spot. Giles smiled nervously and she waited for him to speak. When he did it was not what she had thought at all, "Willow... umm, according to what the spells vision revealed, it is quite possible that .. well that Riley is indeed still alive." the ex watcher played with adjusting his glasses tentatively as he watched the little witch's face go blank.
You could have knocked Willow over with a feather at that remark, "Then why,, why did he go?" she asked her mind confused. "Well,, Giles started, from what I saw he was hurt pretty badly, but he was picked up by the commando group that was suppose to meet with him I guess. At least that is what was shone in the vision." Giles took a deep breath and sat back in his chair, he watched Willow for a minute. " Willow I don't think you have anything to worry about as far as Angel is concerned, His voice steadier, but you have to deal with him somehow." Willow only nodded and stood, " I need to shower Giles, I will be back out in a few", her voice set in monotones as she walked away. Giles watched as she left the room, he worried that she was unstable and hoped that the news he had for her would help her balance herself more.
Xander stood in awe of what was going on, Riley could still be alive and Willow could still have a chance at the soldier boy, if he comes back. But what would Angel do if he found out that Riley was alive. Right now he was willing to wait for Willow, to let her decide what she wanted, confident that he would be that choice. Xander had to wonder what he would react like if he knew there could be limited time, that any day Riley could come back and she would go off with him to parts unknown. He didn't want to think of that right now, dead boy would find himself more than dead if he didn't let Willow do what ever she wanted. Xander heard the shower go off and walked back to Giles from the window he had been looking out of. They both waited to see how she would be when she came out of the shower.
Witch's Brew;
Willow turned her head as she watched the people go by on the street in front of the Magic Box. Anya had taken the last part of the day off, which was very weird for her. But she had good reasons to go, and Willow was happy to be without the ex-demons comments for a short while. Not that Anya was being rude really but she had to wonder what it was like on her plane. Since people here didn't say things like, "Choosing should be easy, ones laying down dead the others walking around dead. At least he can talk to you.". Oh Goddess, if she had to explain one more time that she was not wanting to deal with any of it right now Willow thought she would go insane and cause another near apocalyptic episode. She rubbed her temples and turned dusting the counters.
It was just getting dark outside and Willow reminder herself to call Xander, and let him know she was on her way home in a half hour. She walked over to the phone and the bells over the door rang letting her know that she had another customer. The last one tonight she thought to herself, as she made note to lock the doors when this one left. Willow turned to greet the person who had just entered and at first thought she was meeting a long lost relative of some sort. The lady was about the same height and weight with a little darker red hair than hers. The woman's gray eyes flashed as she took in Willow who was behind the counter. She nodded and said hello, the began to walk around the shop. "Anything I can help you find?" Willow said as she came around the counter to help the woman. "Oh, no I think I can find what I want, I like to look around before I choose." having said the she walked deeper into the shop. she looked over some crystals and picked up a few as she walked deeper still, looking over the book shelves now. "Miss, the lady inquired, is this book on white witch craft or the darker arts?" Her questions not being to uncommon but enough so that Willow could not just look at he book from where she was and say.
Around the counter Willow came and over to where the lady stood. "Well lets see," she said as she picked the book from the lady's hand. Looking it over she began to read from it's contents, until she felt as if the world had just exploded and the lights went out. The lady stood over her looking down and smiling her vampiric visage in full view. "Simple math sweetie, never turn your back on anyone after dark, or you will never see it coming." her eyes shone with glee as she retrieved Willow's store keys and locked the front door. She then gathered up Willow's limp body and headed out the back to the alley. Humor in her steps as she thought of what rewards she would get by capturing the one Angelus was stalking. Willow thought she heard singing as she was being carried. But her head hurt to much to say anything, much less try to move.
~Part: 8~
In Dreams;
She could feel the weightlessness, the ebb and flow of her body as she lay waiting for him. The soft silks of the curtains blowing back from the floor to ceiling from the widows gently as she sat up in her bed. The room was round and light .. open on all four sides like a gazebo. Willow looked around and noticed she was dressed in a mint green nearly sheer dress. It fit tight to her waist and flowed in waves down her legs to her ankles. It was strapless and set in a heart shape around her perky beasts. Her hair was wound up loosely round her head so that tendrils fell around her face and down her back. A silver ring on her left thumb that seemed to be inscribed with some runic markings. But she wasn’t sure what the markings meant.
Willow sat back calmly watching through the windows. Fields and flowers were everywhere rose petals were strewn over the floor. She could hear birds tweeting happily very near her. In her mind she couldn’t tell if it was day or night. It seemed bright, but she could almost make out the stars from her spot on the large round bed. She knew he was coming, that her love would soon be there with her. All she had to do was wait, and even that wasn’t for very long. Strong hands fell gently on her shoulders from behind and she closed her eyes to the feel of him that loves her best. Willow felt the his weight settle on the bed next to her and his hands slid down her arms wrapping them around her pulling her back into his body. He folded her into a embrace and added little kisses that feathered down the side of her neck.
Willow sighed, her head rolled to the other side allowing him full access to her soft warm skin. One of his hands move upward and cupped the rounded mound of her breast and she arched her back into his touch. With his other hand he placed two fingers under her chin and pulled her face to his, kissing her gently. Letting his tongue trace her lips in his urgent need for her. This cause a small moan to escape her lips and he entered the sweet hollow of her mouth. Their passions flared as they kissed and he sighed his pleasure to her. It had seemed so long since she was with him. But now the wait was over and she felt only the intense need taking over her body. She could feel the little tickles he was making on her sides where his hand was gently stroking the silky covered flesh there. Then the tickling became more than that, almost like it hurt.
Suddenly her eyes flew open and she screamed, pain searing her mind in hot flashes. Her eyes blurred and tearing, started to take in her surroundings, she was not in a beautiful room nor was her lover here. More like a basement or dungeon, something was really wrong. Willow notice the more she came to that things were upside down. Mostly because she was upside down. Hanging from what appeared to be a set of chains on a wall. Her hands were bound around her waist and she had to move her head to an odd angle so that it didn’t hit the floor. She flashed back to her dream and she smiled in irony of her minds ability cope. Her side still hurt though and she tired to move enough to see why. But instead she heard’ “Well, I see my little pet is awake at last”.
Demon Treats;
Willow saw the form of a woman move into view. It was the same lady she had been trying to help at the Magic Box. Why was this happening to her she wondered, as she watched the woman move over to her with a red hot fire place poker. That was the smell, Willow thought, I have been burn by that thing. The woman began to speak again as she came closer to Willow’s face waving the hot instrument barley an inch from her nose. “Are you comfortable, she smiled wickedly, would you like a cappuccino?” the question was a taunt. Willow knew it, she tossed one out at the woman herself, “ you get that line from a book or do you really go out into the world with that face”.
Willow tried her best, up yours smile, but it didn’t go over very well in her topsy turvy state. She could barley think anyway with all the blood running to her head. The woman clear her throat and smiled, “my name is Eve, you are Willow Rosenburg right?” not that she really needed the answer. Eve walked back to the stove where she had pulled the iron from and placed it back. “I will have to leave soon, but just so you know, I plan to make a dinner of you for the demon of my dreams”. Her smiled curve around her face and she watched as Willow tried to say something, most likely of a magical nature. Eve shook her head, “wont work here witch, I have already place a spell on this place. One that will negate your magic for the most and keep you here as long as I like”. Eve walked over to a emblem on one wall and lifted her hand as if she were a model on a price is right. “This is a seal, the seal if you want to ward off magic’s of all kinds.” the vampiress grinned and let her visage fall into her true face. “And you my dear are more or less helpless, when I bring Angelus here, we shall feed and find pleasure in your body in ways you have no idea of. Yet.” With that she turned on her heels and left swiftly.
Chained;
Willow began to take in everything around her as she tried to find a way out of this, before Angel/Angelus showed up. She was worried that the vampire was correct in theory anyway. Her mind raced, what if he has been playing me and is really Angelus. Then all he would have been waiting for would be a way to stop me from using my magic. Then he could kill me and leave me on Buffy’s doorstep or something equally disturbing. Or even worse, he could turn me and take my soul away, making me like the other me, vampire me. Her head began get very cloudy again, and her side was still burning from the wound that Eve had caused.
Maybe she thought, maybe she could take a few minutes nap. Just so she could gather her strength and deal better with what was happening to her. Somehow she knew there was no way out of this unless Angel really was himself, who would know how to find her. They would only know she was missing, and that’s only if she was missing more than 10 hours. She seemed to remember telling them to stay away so she could rest. Oh how she now wished she hadn’t asked that of them. Her last thought before passing out again was of how she would explain her stupidity to the others, if they rescued her.
Dressing the Part;
Eve walked into her closet, looking through the enormous amount of clothing there. She had to pick just the right outfit to meet Angelus in. She had more than 4 hours to choose, and taking her time was something she liked to do. The closet itself was huge, Eve walked into it and proceeded to follow the hanged clothes for 8 feet before she came to the end of them and to the rows and rows of shoes. Imelda Marcos would have been proud of her and her collection. There must have been more than two thousand pairs of shoes, all colors shape and designers. Eve smiled as she walked over to her favorite pair of kiss me or kill me pumps. They were dark red and had straps that went round her ankles in a cutting fashion. These she tried on first, just to get in the mood if nothing else. After all she was dressing for the “Scourge of Europe”. The thought made her tingle in all the right places, maybe he would show her his way of blood sports. Her mind thrilled to the idea of being beneath the cold hard body of one of the most vicious vampires that had ever been. Excitedly she began to decide what she would wear, as she went through a list in her mind of what she would say. How she would present her, “gift” to Angelus, the one with the angelic face. If she had a heart beat it would have missed one.
The Job;
Angel sat going over his notes for the millionth time, the client that had contacted him was strange at best. He didn’t really want to take a job right now since he was still in Sunnydale and waiting for Willow to feel more like talking to him. As he read the papers in his hand his eyes kept wandering to the phone, “what would one call hurt, she wouldn’t, couldn’t get more angry with him over one phone call”. He reached for the thing and gave a wane smile to himself, dialing her number he thought to himself how weak he had become.
The phone rang and rang but there was no answer. That in itself wasn’t a bad thing, except that he really wanted to talk with her. Setting his mind Angel got his duster and walked for the front door of his mansion. He would go see how she was for himself, heading toward the Magic Box first he would walk her home if she hadn’t left yet. Which was unlikely since the shop had been closed for hours. Then head to her house making sure she was OK. He could rest and read that stupid file Cordy had sent him after that. Inside Angel’s head his demon was talking to him in a small voice, bidding it’s time, waiting for Angel to slip and let him out enough to do what it really wanted to do. Angel always knew it was listening to him, he heard it’s voice when it told him to take Willow and run with her. After all he knew places in the world that no one would find, places where Willow would learn to except their love, and not keep up this stupid game anymore. Hard as Angel would try to push that voice away from his mind, even the souled part of him admitted, he was getting worried about how long she was taking to make up her mind.
Finding Traces;
Getting to the Magic Box around 11 PM, Angel walked to the big front window and peered inside. He didn’t see anything right away, but after looking into the darkness for a bit his vampire eyes caught sight of something small on the floor. Something that shouldn’t have been there, something that Willow would have never left without. Her keys, the ones to the shop, and maybe on the same ring, ones to her apartment as well. Angel’s mind run rampant and he darted around to the back door checking to see if it was open, and it was. He entered the building heading for where he had seen the keys. Sure enough it was her keys, pink fluffy teddy bear key ring and all. His eyes flashed amber and game face snapped into place as he pulled his cell phone from his belt and called Xander’s place. Giles answered the phone and Angel told him what had happened as far as he knew, then he let Giles go saying he was going to try and follow her trail or at least go to her apartment and see if she was there.
After all there was no reason to think that, as powerful as she was she just fell at her attackers feet. Angel started by looking for signs of struggle, there wasn’t any that he saw. Only some minor scuff marks on the floor like something, someone had been dragged a very short distance before being picked up, maybe. He went to the door he had used to enter the shop and there was little to anything there to go by either. The only thing he could pick up on was the overly sweet scent of an almost familiar perfume. His memory seemed to known the smell, but he could not pull up who or what would use such a fragrance. The trial was thin at best, he would not be able to find her on what he had so far. It had been almost four months since he watched Riley topple over the edge of the building, but he was now wishing soldier boy was here. Willow had said he was now more or less a detective that hunted missing people, or other things.
Angel glanced around one more time, trying to decide which way the scent actually went. But he knew that would be near impossible, since it had been awhile and the wind was blowing pretty good. Those things made even his keen senses less than useful. Turning on his heel he marched off toward Xander’s house and Giles, it would be a place to start. Once he tells them what he had found maybe they could find her together.
Guess Who;
It seemed to take forever to get back to Xander and Giles, but really it was only a few minutes. Angel walked up to the door and banged on it heavily. He could hear three heartbeats on the other side and wondered if maybe Willow had somehow escaped and gotten over here for safety sake. But no his mind corrected, he didn’t smell her and by now he knew every scent she was likely to wear and her normal body fragrance. The scents were familiar to him but he could not quite place them yet. The door opened and Buffy stood there looking at him her eyes shinning up at him, pain evident in them. “Come in Angel, she said in clipped tones. Meaning she had already been briefed by Giles or Xander and she felt he had some explaining to do to her, or so she would think. He didn’t feel the need to say anything to the Slayer, mostly because it would be like confessing again and he didn’t think Buffy really needed to hear it from him. No doubt she had heard enough already.
It was a little bit of a shock to see her, but he knew she would show up sooner of later. The only problem with sooner was that Angel had not got Willow to come back to him yet. With things up in the air as there were he was worried Willow’s best friend would be able to sway her away from Angel completely. The demon in Angel’s head wanted to kill her on the spot, instinct and hatred of the slayer coming to the fore. Even though in his heart he saw her as girl he had been in love with, and still care a great deal for. Right now he didn’t know which side of the fence she was on and he didn’t want to lose his chance at Willow because of something Buffy said or did.
Walking into the front room she piled up on an over stuffed chair and watched him as he moved over toward where Xander was. “So what have you found out about Willow”, Buffy asked in her most controlled slayer voice. “Not as much as I would like, Angel answered, But this is just the beginning, I am sure Giles will no more. Or at the very least he will be able to help me figure out what happened”. Angel’s eyes scanned the room for Giles, his hearing detected noises coming from where the bath was and he went back to his conversation with Buffy. “So you going on patrol with me to find her then, he asked the tension showing in his movements. He wanted this over and to have Willow back where he knew where she was, safe. Giles needed to get out here so he could ask about the vision spell again, maybe something like that would help find Willow. To Angel that couldn’t be done fast enough.
They had no way of knowing who or what had her right now and it was making him crazy. Xander looked at him strangely and Angel noticed an almost grim inner conflict within the man. What was it Xander was thinking, he started to ask what was on his mind when the door leading through the bedroom to the bath opened. Good, thought Angel, finally Giles. The tension was getting to him and he knew he needed to do something other than receive dirty looks from goofy and the slayer. Angel turned toward the door only to drop his jar nearly on the floor.
Riley stepped into the main room and looked around, he had known that he would be seeing Angel here and he was not happy about that. But when he got to Sunnydale this evening and didn’t find Willow at home, he had come to Xander’s home looking her. Only to get the news very shortly after he got there that Willow may have been kidnapped. He was not a happy man and his anger showed toward Angel, he didn’t even bother to pretend civility toward the dark vampire. He still had some not completely heal parts but he didn’t want Angel to know that. Somehow understanding that Angel would in no way let him help if he thought he was still hurt.
Masking any left over pain Riley walked over to Angel and glared at him crossing his arm over his broad chest. To Angel he looked as if he were fine, as if nothing had happened to him. He started to say something to Riley then noticed the look on his face and returned it with his own icy stare. Both men looked as if they were about to resume the last time they had encountered each other. That is when Buffy eyeing them both stepped in the middle, “Save it for who ever or whatever has Willow, boys.” Her comments made in clipped tones, her eyes daring either of them to keep up their testosterone benge. Both man looked to their shoes briefly then they made way to separate corners. But not without further killer glances at each other.
Suddenly the front door opened and in walked Giles, looking impatient and flustered. “How do they expect to call themselves ‘information finders’ if they can’t find one auburn headed witch.” The words said as if he had a lemon in his mouth. Giles paced in the apartment, puling off his jacket and placing books on the coffee table. He scanned the room and noticed that both Angel and Riley were here now and he did his best not to allow his own feelings get involved with what they had to do now. Angel found himself feeling very uncertain of the whole thing, what would he do now. Riley’s reappearance was not on his list of things to worry about. It would seem he needed a new list. Worse, he thought, no one told him of Riley’s return, yet they all seemed not to be surprised by this, by his even being alive. His mind caught up with the rest of them as they discussed how to find Willow and what to look for. It was Angel’s phone that brought them out of their concentrated effort if only of a minute. He checked it to see who it was then answered it moving away from the rest to have more privacy with his client.
The Phone Call;
Xander was asking more questions and Buffy was correlating a plan of attack with Riley when Angel’s voice suddenly got louder than the rest of them put together. “What do you mean, NO, I will come, just let me get this address written down.” he motioned for someone to give him paper and pen. Giles got him the items and the group watched him each wondering what was so important it would take away from what they were trying to do.
Once the address was jotted down he closed the phone and looked at the rest of them, guilt written all over his face. “I know where she is,” he said, unwilling to let them see the fear in his eyes. Giles and Riley moved toward Angel, both looking as if he didn’t tell them, that they would beat it out of him. Angel stared at them and let out a sigh, “ I will have to go this one alone, his voice hard edged and serious, she will be killed if I don’t go on my own, and there is no way to sneak up on this person.” Xander snorted, “ person,, you mean vampire don’t you.” He paused a minute, what happened Angel, one of your enemies find an easy way to get to you, or some friend wanting to get you something/someone for you birthday.”. Angel’s eyes flashed amber gold at the last comment, and that had both Buffy and Riley in his face.
“Just chill, Angel” Buffy made him know she wasn’t taking no for an answer. “Just tell us Angel, Giles asked, what has happened to Willow.” Angel began to explain that a female vampire had kidnapped her and she was being held by the vampire so that Angel/Angelus would come to her. She seemed to want his attention. But in Angel’s mind the vampire called Eve had no idea what she would be getting. That if she wanted to be with Angelus he would let her, long enough to rip her head off anyway. After they had talked about it for a short while Angel took off on his own knowing that he had little time and Eve would be impatient now. He needed to make an appearance as Angelus and he had to change some of what he was wearing to do that. After leaving the mansion he watched around him on the street and thought he smelled something familiar. But he had no time to stop and wonder. With only a half hour left before Eve had said she would carry out her threats against Willow. He was in no mood to deal with anything else.
Shadowing an Angel;
Riley slipped out of the apartment just before Angel had left and followed him to his mansion. What the hell is he doing here, Riley wondered. His question was answered in less then ten minutes as Angel walked out wearing a long duster and what looked like black leather pants. He watched as Angel stopped a moment and looked around then shook his head and got into his car heading where ever it was he thought Willow was being held. Riley follow in a small dark jeep, from a fair distance, so as not to be noticed. His thoughts kinda of jumbled, Angel needed to make a fashion statement to the female vampire or something.
To Riley this was kinda of stupid, but knowing what he did about Angel he didn’t doubt that he knew what he was doing. Riley’s hope was that it wouldn’t take to much time. He needed to see Willow, needed to know she was all right. He had missed her so much that even before he was really ready to come back he left base and came to see Willow. He needed her and wanted her to know he had not left her. He would never want to leave her, and when he saw her again he would let her know that for certain. But first, they must find and rescue her. Riley’s hands held tight to the wheel of the jeep as he carefully turned with Angel and kept his on every move the dark car ahead of him made.
It seemed like they were going to the warehouse district, now why didn’t that surprise him, he thought grimly. The fact that there were a lot less cars made it harder to follow very close so Riley had to rely on distance and scanning technique. He found Angel’s car in front of what had been a glue factory, located near the back of all the other buildings here. He could see as he pulled up that one door was slightly ajar. He thought it must be the one Angel went into. So he park his jeep and got out quietly making a call to Buffy and the rest letting them know where he was and what he had seen so far. Then he let them know that he would not make contact anymore and they should come fast. Leaving the phone in the jeep he retrieve a cross bow and four stakes, which he filled the inside panels of his jacket with. With a long sigh he started toward the door, glancing around to see if anyone, or thing was trying to sneak up on him. Nothing, he was glad of that, as he walked quietly inside the dark factory. The place reeked of old death, Riley could remember coming to a place like this once when he was letting the vampires feed from him. It was a prefect spot for their kind, he thought.
Advancing slowly he peered into the darkness and pulled a flash light. To bad the branch of secret military he had worked for didn’t give him better total darkness vision, he mused to himself. A quick flash of light from his left and he was moving that way, the sound coming from the other side was odd to Riley. It sounded like a party, or dance. Not knowing what to make of it he stood just away from the door and waited wondering how to proceed.
From one side where Riley was looking he saw someone enter a door nearly half way down the building. He trotted down that way hoping it would be another way into the interior of the place. Letting him gain access without the notice a human would get walking into a party full of vampires. When he got to the door it wasn’t locked and it seemed to be some type of utility route, more or less the back door he thought. He wondered about who it was that had gone in this way just before him. His mind realized this was going to be more dangerous than he had first thought. After all, the only thing Angel had told them was that a female vampire had Willow and he had been told to come alone if he wanted to see her. All this was a surprise to him and he figured it would be to the slayer as well. Who knew there was a vampire club more or less in the warehouse district of Sunnydale. Hell mouth or no, it’s not like this is a huge city where these kinds of places could hide easily.
Riley proceeded with care, watching all around him. The area was thin and full of odd things. Different sofas and chairs, wing back and chase lounges. Lamps and statues stacked on each other, in the distance he had come Riley could have put together four different Adams style homes. He had never seen so much antique furnishings out side of a store. Not letting himself muse to much about what things were here besides the vampires he could now here on the other side of the wall. He was close now to more intimate areas and he could nearly make out most of what was being said. Riley walked over to the wall and leaned an ear to it listening closely.
“Angelus, I only want to please you”, the voice was defiantly feminine and full of lust. Riley lean in closer to hear better and was rewarded with, “If pleasing me was on your mind, what made you think this would. What is stopping me from ripping your head off right now.” Angel’s voice was smooth and seemed unaffected by what was happening. Riley shook his head but understood that Angel was playing the game. This admirer of his would see anything else as weakness and might kill Willow in a fit of anger or jealously. All Riley could do was wait.. or was that all, he thought about the idea that had been bouncing around in him, and decided it wasn’t a bad one. He would have to try it out and see if it worked, the plan was to keep circling and find another way into the rooms where Angel and the one calling herself Eve were. Or if he was lucky he would find the room Willow was in instead and could be out of there before either of them knew he was around.
Hell—oo;
With that thought in mind Riley moved further down the thin room and indeed found another door, this one was very wide and looked like a loading room from the area he was in. Riley walked over to it and he checked the doors handle. It was locked, so he shoved it hard trying to break the lock and open it that way. The only problem with this idea was that if any of the undead were around he was sure to be heard. But in order to get to Willow, he had to get through this door. The old wooded panels on the door gave fairly easily and he was searching the darkness of the room carefully. It would not do now to find himself face to face with three or four vampires guarding Willow. To his benefit there was no one he could readily see, but there was a sound, small and frail.
He moved inside looking around, he pulled his tiny flashlight so he could see better and pointed it in the direction of the sound. Riley blinked twice as he took in what he was seeing, trying to understand what or who it was. The whole thing seemed upside down, and as he moved the flashlight over the rest of it he found he was right. Willow’s body was on it’s head and he could see she was gagged and bound to something behind her. He saw her state of undress and smelled the burnt flesh, Riley curse himself for ever thinking of going to the roof that day to talk with Angel. Not that he could do anything about that now, he needed to focus and help Willow. He made his way over to her and stood their deciding how to get the chains off her. Noticing how they were connected to the wall behind her, he took out a couple of tools he had with him but none of them seemed to be of any help. Riley was beginning to worry since he could tell that her breathing wasn’t the best and she was very cold in what little she was wearing.
His eyes skimmed her pale legs and body, she was so very pale and almost blue in color. Riley shucked his jacket and tried to cover her some then went with the OLE Neanderthal method of getting her loose as he wrapped one of the chains around his wrist and placed his foot on the wall, giving a strong jerk. He didn’t pull it free but he did loosen it some so he just kept working on it. His now bloodied wrist and aching shoulder was testament to his unwillingness to give up and he smiled briefly as the first of the four chains pull from the wall. Riley stopped and listened, his mind having caught something, a sound or voice. He didn’t know yet but he was trying to hear what it was. The voice came from the other side of the door on the opposite of the room he was in. It was Angel and Eve talking, he could barely hear their voices as they came closer. Another voice caught his mind and he quickly glanced down at Willow. “Riley, she muttered, her voice weak and rough sounding, Riley?” Then he heard her say, “no, just a dream, juss a dream” as she passed out again.
~Part: 9~
In The Dark;
Angel got out of his car and walked toward where he had been asked by Eve to meet. He wasn't surprised by the fact that she "lived" in a warehouse at the lower end of town. He was however taken back by the fact that she also kept a club in the same building. Not something most of the undead in Sunnydale would do, since the Slayer live here too.
But then if he remembered this vampire like he thought he did she would be less likely to play quiet and hidden monster. He was pretty sure she was the same one he had met at Willie's the day he couldn't go to Willow right away. If so she had made no bones about knowing more or less who he was, and if his observations were not completely off, she had made a pass at him then. Someone, vamp or not that would come on to Angelus was not shy by any means. Opting to more likely to be out there and waiting for Buffy to find her. Angel found himself wondering just how long she had been in town. What made her think she could live past a few minutes once Buffy found her. He had now doubt that she would be found after this. If he didn't kill her himself then he was sure Buffy or one of the gang would. His first thought was to get to Willow, she would be scared, maybe hurt. Most likely hurt, if Eve's threats had been anywhere near true.
Once inside the building he walked straight up to the double doors leading into the main room. A quick knock and a panel opened in one of the doors. "What ya want." came the gruff voice of some dense minion on the other side. Angel shook his head and answered, " To see the lady red, Widow of the dark", you could almost hear his eyes roll as he repeated the words she had given him to gain entrance. Quickly the door was opened and he entered watching the doorman closely. He didn't look like much of a threat, but there were four more just inside all male all watching him closely. Angel looked them over and shrugged to himself. He hadn't thought this would be easy, but he needed to make an example of someone here and it might as well be the guy in front of him. Eve would be expecting him to react to all the other vamps sizing him up. He knew he should do something fairly impressive. I one swift fluid movement of muscle and practiced skill, Angel reached out to the guy in front of him and snapped his neck, finishing the act by severing his head from his shoulders.
The body of the once doorman dropped nearly to the floor before turning to dust. Angel merely look at the rest of the room with a slight grin on his handsome face. Raising the head of the ex minion he watched as it turned to dust as well, his other hand he raised in mock question, "What, he quipped, he looked at me funny". Angel's eyes said that he might think they were looking at him funny too, giving his best Angelus grin as he brushed the excess dust off his hands, and walked by them to sit on a rather large divan. The music became louder and a few more people/vampires came in. All of them seemed to be in a party mood and Angel looked up just in time to see who he was looking for. Eve walked over to him lightly on four inch heels, her smile brightly shone even under the very dark red, very heavy lipstick she was wearing. Angel had to wonder how she could move in the outfit she had on, it was skin tight suede deep red, and looked more like some type of bondage then clothes. When she turned he noticed there was only a very brief part of the dark red cloth covering her behind, otherwise her back was totally open, to his eyes. She seemed to be giving him a show as she spun slowly watching as he let his eyes roam over he petite body.
"Well, well, I see you came Angelus, so nice to have you here, finally." her voice was sensual and she nodded to the rest of the room. A strange look crossed her face and she asked one of the men, "where is Doug?". Before either of them could speak Angel/Angelus answered, "Seems he and I didn't see eye to eye, so I fear he had to go." his smiled never faded and he wondered if he could nominate himself for some kind of award over this performance. As he neatly folded his hands together he stood and smiled down on her, she merely smiled back and he sensed she like what she was seeing so far. He was sure she knew most of how he would react as Angelus, and didn't want to disappoint her until he had Willow safe. Then all the games would end and he would disembowel her, stupid demon that she was. His own demon relished the thought of treating her to some of the same things he was sure she was doing to his Willow. He let his eyes reflect his intent and Eve could think want she wanted to, knowing that she would assume it was glee over Willow's soon to be fate at their hands. He didn't bother to hide the evil grin that worked it's way over his face, and Eve took it to mean she was doing well.
Playing the Game;
Running a cold finger over Angel's taunt cheekbone she smiled up, letting her true face slid over the human guise. She tiptoe to kiss him and he dropped his human mask as well, letting her kiss him, as his inner demon raged at the act. He was so close to ripping her apart he could barely control himself, the taste of her was revolting to him in his anger and he wanted to vomit down her throat. In the act of kissing he became violent, Angel yanked her head back by her perfectly coifed hair. Staring into her eyes he made her feel his hand tighten so that she couldn't move her head anymore. Eve's mind was in awe, he was very powerful, more so than she would have even believed. She was so turned on at this point that she missed the slight glint of fear in him. If she had she would have known he was worried for the witch, she would have known the danger she was in.
Moving his face within an inch of hers he whispered, "Take me to the witch, now" and he released her letting her drop back to her feet. Standing back from her enough so that he could keep a close watch what she was doing. Eve smiled sweetly and straiten her dress, nodding to her minion, she waved a hand to Angel. "Come lover, we have things to do, and I know you don't want to miss on the fun" her words fairly dripped with honey and arsenic. She lead him deeper into the warehouse, swaying her hips in what she thought was a seductive manner. It only further annoyed Angel to have to follow this sashaying whore to where she kept Willow. Just outside the third set of double doors they had come to, Eve stopped and pushed her body up against Angel's.
He was a little surprised by this but he got hold on himself quickly, pushing her back,flipping their positions and restraining her arms over her head . He growled a mere breath away from her face and let his face lower to her neck, she purred with inhuman lust. Angel teased her briefly and pulled back from her, fire in his eyes and hate in his dead heart for this vampiric bitch. She arched her body from the wall to his and he knew that if he didn't find Willow soon, he would have this creature dead and lose maybe all chance of finding her. Angel steeled himself against the familiar gorge raising in his throat. He had felt sick since he had laid eyes on her tonight, and was not likely to feel better until he had Willow back. He could imagine putting his hands around her throat and killing her for what she had done.
Eve having no clue to what he was really thinking, she was trying to wiggle closer to him, trying to rub her body to his. Angel backed away enough so she couldn't reach him, but he could still hold her fast to the wall. She sucked in a unneeded breath, the way he was teasing her, she thought she would go mad. "Angelus, she rasped at him, please!". Her plea fell on deaf ears as he smiled wickedly at her freeing one hand and tracing her face. "No playing, he said icily, until I see the witch" Eve muttered a few curses and nodded her agreement. Angel dropped her hands and let her get her keys out. This door was locked and she wasn't letting anyone in but her and her new possible lover. Upon opening the door, Angel heard two heart beats behind the large doors. He went on full alert and pulled Eve into his arms dragging her and him into the room fully.
Angel sniffed the air and knew who was in there with them, Riley, he thought, damn him. Angel knew there was no way out now, and Eve would at any second know what he did, that there was someone else in the room with Willow. He choose to play to it instead of ignoring what they would both know in short order. He pushed Eve into a corner pretending to be concealing her from a would be attacker. His voice quiet, dark and dangerous he said, "We have company." She smiled at him, loving his closeness and she wiggled enough to feel his well muscled body tight upon hers. "Hmmm, she purred into his ear, if I would have known that's what it took to get you next to me I would have done it sooner."
Angel ignored the comment, as he pushed her aside and walked around the room looking for who he was sure was there. He could still vaguely hear the heartbeats of Willow and Riley. But they had vacated the large ornate room. Walking over to where he was sure Eve had Willow chained. He could smell the blood and burnt flesh, Willows flesh. Angel's eyes went golden and he turned all his rage on Eve knowing that even though Willow wasn't with him she was safe. Eve for the first time looked scared as he stared her down while she stood still leaning against the wall next to the doors. She almost made it out too, but Angel was faster. He growled at her as he pulled her to him and his demon visage was mere breaths space from her face as he ground out his next words. "I thought you had her, I see you have failed. You understand what that means to me, and for you." His inner demon in such a rage that he couldn't control it, didn't want to control it. Angelus coming to the fore as he tore into the female vampire, in seconds she was dust pieces on the floor and he was no where near satisfied.
So close his inner monster screamed at him, so close to saving her himself. Riley again, why did he have to come back from the dead. He hadn't had any real time to focus on it before, but now it was all he could think about. Riley with his Willow, no, no, no, NO, the words kept running through his mind over and over again. He was in his car and off to Xander's house as fast as he could get there. No way was he letting Riley be the only one with her now. She needed him, he was here while Riley was gone. He glanced at his hands and noticed that they were covered in the blood of the vamp he had just dusted. When he left the warehouse he had gone out that he had tracked Willow and Riley out of. It must have been close, he must have walked in as they were escaping. It angered him more to know that he had to control himself enough to get home to his mansion and clean up. Willow should never know how out of control he had become. His thoughts murderous and confused.
Escape The Night;
Riley leaned Willow up as he pulled away from the curb. He had heard the screams and growls as he sat Willow in the car and didn't want to be there once that was over. Driving down the street at a fairly good clip he pulled in near Xander's place a short time later. Riley trotted around the car and opening the door he hauled Willow out as gently as he could. All her chains still in place around her wrist and ankles made it hard to move her. Riley got her to Xander's door and tapped it with his foot for a knock. Anya answered the door and was surprised to see him standing there with Willow. "Oh, hey is Willow OK" she asked never moving from in front of the doorway. Riley answered, " I am not sure, I don't think she is in danger of dying. But she is hurt pretty bad. Riley had draped his coat over her body that was mostly nude, he gave Anya a nervous look and nodded, "may we come in," his voice shaking enough to tell even Anya he was worried about the redhead. She let him in and walked to the bathroom to get the medical kit. Riley having been in the service knew how to deal with most wounds.
He sat Willow down on the couch and place a pillow over her head so she could be more comfortable. She hadn't woken yet and he was worried she might not wake. He may have to take her to the hospital and he wonder if he should have done that first. A low moan escaped Willow's lips and he brushed a lock of hair from her face. Her eyes fluttered open and she looked up at him. Immediately she began coughing and sputtering. Her color was starting to look more normal but the burn on her side was looking pretty nasty. Riley look up just as Anya came back with the bandages and he tried to smile a little at the ex demon. She handed him the things to fix Willow up with and walked back to the kitchen, a sad smile on her lips. "Would you like something to drink, we have different beverages to choose from." her voice was tense but that was understandable. Buffy and the others had not returned yet, Riley hoped they were OK, but his need to help Willow out weighed any feelings he had thought he had for Buffy, and her other friends. Willow was hurt, and he meant to make sure she was on the way to getting better. Riley,sent Anya to get a wet cloth so that he could wipe some of the dirt and grit off Willow. Her face was smudged badly and her arms as well.
Something about the burns bother him, he looked over them closely. There were two sets of wounds on each of her sides. The first set of wounds was deep red and brownish looking with blisters. Some of the blisters were broken and weeping. He pulled her over gently to look at the other side and found it was actually worse. The skin was peeling off the side in hunks were the wounds had been inflicted. Willow groan when Anya came back with a wet cloth and Riley gingerly began to wipe away some of the dirt and grim. He touched a spot on her left side that was very sore and Willows eyes flew open. Her mouth turned into a Oh of pain but no sound came out. She sputtered and began to cough, trying to move to her side. Riley helped her roll over without touching her sides anymore than necessary. When he noticed what she was about to do it grab a small trash can and leaned her closer to it.
Willow didn't really have anything in her stomach but she managed to relive her body of a small amount of bile fluid. Mostly she coughed and shuttered in Riley's arms. When she settled back down there was a knock at the door, loud and more or less demanding. Anya went to the door and opened it looking as if she was now bored she waved Angel into the room. He looked at Willow and his eyes turned amber in an instant. Riley was holding Willow, who was more than a little nude, close to him as she seemed to be shivering. She is human and needs to be warmer, was his only thought at the moment. Angel strode over to them his inner demon raging at the liberties that he felt Riley was taking. Everything in him made Riley out to be his nemesis. He was the one thing that stood between his and Willow's happiness.
Riley glared at Angel as he walked in the room. He felt that Angel was the reason Willow was hurt like this. Willow started to come more wakeful and mumbled at Riley to let her down. He gently laid her back down and got up to get some water for her. At the same time he watched Angel as he watched Willow. There was no confusion what Angel seemed to feel, what he was feeling himself. Willow needed their help, needed them not to fight with each other right now. She needed them to work together and help her get better. Angel would do anything to stop the pain she was going through. Riley was doing everything he knew to do at the moment. Riley walked to get some of his gear and medicines he was due for them nearly an hour ago, and he figured he better keep up with them if he meant to keep up with Angel.
He didn't have Riley's handicaps, nor his benefits. Riley thought it was a pretty even, between the two of them. It made him sad to think that Willow had been with Angel, but he could see no reason why she wouldn't have, with him coming up gone. He had some idea of what Willow had thought. He had talked to both Giles and Xander, they had told him some things. Riley remembered that Xander even kinda blushed as he related some of what had happened. Willow was sure Riley had left her, ran off to be in the jungles again. But that's not what had happened, he had gotten stupid and thought he needed to have it out with Angel. When he fell it was an accident, and partially his own fault. He had fought Angel before and knew he was quicker than himself. So it was as much his fault as Angel's, that didn't make it any easier for him to deal with.
Riley turned back to see what Angel was doing now. Angel had dropped down on one knee and was pushing her hair from her eyes. Murmuring soft words to her that Riley couldn't hear. He wanted to jump Angel and knock him away from Willow. But his logic willed out, he knew it wouldn't do Willow any good and she seemed to derive some comfort from his ministrations. Riley could feel his heart begin to sink, how would he win her back. He had thought of nothing else but her from the minute he became aware of where he was, what was happening to him. He remembered falling and the painful thump his body felt as he hit the grassy part just off the sidewalk. He knew then that his leg had been broken, but that was all he knew before he passed out. His last thought at the time was, Willow's going to be pissed at me". He was right, so pissed she ended up in Angel's arms, oh Riley didn't really know, but he did know. Somehow his being suddenly gone made it a fact, if only because he knew she had no idea what had happen and wasn't sure Angel would tell her. The way Angel looked at her now told him enough of the story, told him that he had made love to Willow.
Angel knelt next to her prone form and looked at her lovingly. He said things to her like, "oh Willow I am so sorry, and when she groaned in pain, It's OK, I am here for you, I will never leave.," Somewhere in her mind she heard him, just like she thought she heard Riley. Willow was sure it was all a dream now, she had some many of them now, her reality being somewhat of a nightmare she wasn't sure what was going on. Angel brushed her hair back gently and leaned forward to give her a light kiss on the forehead.
Her eyes blinked open and she looked up at him, her green depths showing the pain she was feeling both inside and out. Eve had tortured her, and done a very good job of it. Willow wasn't sure if she was seeing things or if Angel really sat there near her. She had thought Riley was there too but she didn't see him, maybe he was her imagination. It seemed right that Angel was here, he would be the one to save her, he was the one that the vampire Eve had wanted all along. Willow was just a tool, and toy for Eve's would be lover. But Willow was sure that by now Eve had found the error in her ways. If nothing else Angel had been able to make her feel that he loved her, and she knew if he loved someone, no one better mess with them. That thought made her smile, if it hadn't hurt so much she would have been happier. Angel just cooed at her and petted her face and hair. Gods, he thought, she is beautiful even in pain. Sleep over took her again as her eyes closed, Angel breathed her name.
Getting Better?
Giles burst into the room from outside and walked over to Willow nearly pushing Angel aside in an abnormal manner. He knelt down to her and layed his hand on her forehead, she was terribly hot. Giles frowned as he picked up one of her hands and checked his watch look enough to know her heart was beating much slower than it should have been. Angel could hear it too, and nearly clubbed himself for missing it in all his confusion. Giles dropped the little bag he was holding and pulled a couple of things from it. Mixing two different vials he placed the shook the mixture together and asked Angel to lift her so he could get her to drink what he had mixed. Angel did as requested and she took a few mild sips. Giles nodded gravely and Angel let her lay down again.
Riley walked back out of the bathroom, he saw Giles and Angel both close to Willow. He heard as she began to wake fully this time. Riley could hear her voice softly speaking to Giles, she was asking something. He couldn't quite make out what she was saying so he moved closer. He had taken off his shirt to clean up some, and was holding a towel as he look over Angel shoulder to see Willow's body shaking and her eyes roll back into her head. Then she suddenly went limp, Riley could hear Angel's voice break some as he reached out and touched her hair. Giles waved his hand in a ritual type of fashion and chanted something in a language no one knew.
Riley could feel his heart catch as in a moment Giles had grabbed one of his hands and one of Angel's as well. Placing them together he then took there other hands and laid them on Willow. Giles never asked if it was OK to do this he simply took over the situation and did what he thought needed to be done. Neither Angel or Riley even thought to question him on it. As it was to help Willow they knew that much, and at the moment they were worried about her dying so anything Giles did was OK. Just don't let her die they seem to both be thinking. Giles stood up behind them and cast some type of spell that included dusting all three with some reddish powder and cutting both Angel and Riley with a small knife, on there hands that were joined.
He then took that blood and dabbed a small amount from each of the two men placing a smudge of it on Willow breast bone. Chanting again, he tossed some more of the dust and then closed the chat letting the two men let go of each other. The feelings that Riley and Angel were having were nearly enough to make them both insane. There seemed to be quite a bit of glowing going on as a light from each of the men came from their chests and flowed down their arms into Willow's body settling around her heart then it flowed to her wounds. Which when watching were the flow of light was going you could tell there must have been much more damage to her then they had known. The light flowed into her stomach and over her shoulders down her back. Willow had sustained enough hurt to have killed her, but somehow she had lived. Both Riley and Angel felt as if they were being torn apart. The pain was intense and never ending to them both. Where Riley was going red faced and squinting, Angel's held an almost shocked look on his face and blanched even paler. Giles stood back watching carefully for any changes in their movements.
Then it was over, both men fell to the sides of where they were kneeling and Willow's color had returned. Giles looked concerned for both men but his attention was on Willow. She had been more like his own child then even Buffy had been. It was at that moment that Buffy, and Xander showed up. They looked pretty ragged themselves but seemed otherwise to be unhurt. Buffy came over to where Giles was sitting now. He hadn't bother to move Angel or Riley, he only petted Willow's forehead brushing her hair away from her face. The blazing tresses were full color now, unlike the dull shade she had when he had seen her at first.
Buffy pulled a round disk from under her jacket and handed it to Giles never looking away from Willow's prone body. He nodded and said, "ah well yes very good Buffy, now if you don't mind. Could you please destroy this horrid thing." " My pleasure she answer and took it outside. Smashing the disk to bits with her heel, Buffy grin, no more nastiness form you". She walked back inside and looked at the body huge bodies laying on the floor at either side of the place where Willow was laying. "What happened to them Giles" she asked only mild concern in her voice. "Nothing really, I just used their energy to save Willow's life. She was dying, they will be fine. in a day or two." He was speaking as if he had no fear for them but they were kinda in the way so Buffy and Xander moved them to other spots in the living room. Giles had sat back down next to Willow again and was watching her. She was breathing much better and began to open her eyes resting them on Giles who smiled at her and called over Buffy and Xander.
Willow tried to raise up but her head was still pounding. Other than that she seemed fine, but she knew she had been badly wounded. She also knew she had been poisoned, and should at this moment be dead or very close to it. Giles took her hand and rubbed it between his. "You will be fine Willow it will just take some time."he reassured her as best as he could. "Oh my head, willow whispered, Where is ahh," Giles nodded to the floor and there they both were. Riley leaned up against a wall and Angel up against a bookshelf.
Willow carefully raised up on her elbows and looked at them her eyes wide with wonder. "Why are they like that" she asked. Giles stood and began fiddling with his glasses, pinching the bridge of his nose, "Well, ahh I used them to heal you Willow. They both helped so now they are going to be out of things a bit as well." He replaced his glasses and walked back to her a brief smile on his lips. "They did that for me," it was more a statement then a question. "Yes, but Willow I have to tell you something before they wake, his voice now filled with tension, there are always cons to every pro, you know that right?" He didn't wait for her to answer but started again,"this will be some what odd for you I think but you are going to have to understand, I did this to keep you alive". Willow really wished he would get to the point. "You , Angel and Riley are now all, well it's hard to put into words." Willow blinked at him and her face became a mask of confusion "We are what Giles, please" " Well, Willow, you are join, in a spiritual sense."
~Part: 10~
Feeling No Pain;
It had been three days since Riley and Angel had allow Giles to do his spell to save Willow. Both men seemed to have had the wind knocked out of their sails. But that didn't stop either of them from asking about Willow. She went to see each in turn, taking with her Xander to see Riley and Giles when she saw Angel.
Going to see Riley was fairly simple, she knocked on his hotel room door and he opened it looking at her with a gentle smile on his face. It was as if he knew she was again uncertain. That he must take his time and wait for her to be ready. Willow looked him over worried that what he had given her might have permanently hurt him. But all she saw was his broad bared chest, lose sweat pants giving just enough to the imagination to leave her nearly breathless, and his bare feet. He leaned into the door frame as he waved her in, Xander close behind her. Somehow she got the feeling that he was a statue of some god long forgotten but no less beautiful. All tanned and muscled, she had to drop her eyes so that he could not see the lust in them. She remembered how he had touched her, teased her. Now faced with him alive again, she had no idea what to do, how to react.
Riley was happy to see Willow up and around he had made it by her apartment the day before only to find that she had not yet gone back to it. He was still very tired but anxious to see if she was OK. She looked more than OK, and Riley found it hard to even notice that Xander was there. Until Xander slapped him on the shoulder and whispered to him, "go get her tiger". Riley had to smile at that, Xander had been loyal to him more than Buffy at times. "That's the plan," Riley gave in answer. Xander only grinned and walked over to the TV, flicking it on and reducing the volume. Finding a comfortable spot in front of it he zone out so as not to be into the conversation with Riley and Willow. Riley was thankful for the more or less privacy, and he turned all his attention to Willow. She was fidgeting some and seemed to have found a fascination with her finger nails. "Would you like something to drink", Riley offered. Willow nodded in response, looking for all the world as if she had been asked something else. Riley smiled and turned toward the tiny kitchenette, he walked leading her a little more away from Xander into more intimate area of the hotel room. She followed him, her eyes carefully concealed behind dark lashes. Riley pulled out one of the stools that supplied a sitting area for eating at. Allowing Willow a chance to sit, then he opened the little fridge and asked her what she would want. He had tea, colas and lemonade. Willow opted for the lemonade and he got her drink then his and sat with her.
"So, you feeling better?" Riley asked by way to start the conversation. Willow only nodded, and smiled weakly at him, "I thought you were dead", she stated without preamble. Riley looked thoughtfully at her, he wasn't sure what he should say to that. It was like she was trying to make an excuse for her behavior. He didn't feel she should have to, he wasn't sure what he would have done her in place. Riley just looked at her a moment and then said, " I guess I was, and you had no way of knowing otherwise,". Riley placed one large hand over hers and pulled it to his lips, kissing gently, she looked up at him and saw his love shinning at her. He wanted her to know it didn't matter to him, she was his heart and that was what mattered to him.
Willow looked up at him through her heavy lashes as he showed her how he still felt, her heart warmed to the idea. She wanted so much to curl up in his arms and sob herself silly. Willow wanted nothing more than to make this all so simple, but nothing would be simple now. Riley didn't know it, but part of what he was feeling was the spirit bond that had been forged when Giles had cast his spell to heal her. She swallowed hard and cleared her throat, then looked into his eyes so she could tell him what Giles had told her. She wasn't sure how Riley would react to this news since it meant that he would be sharing time with Willow, and Angel. Looking into the hazel depths of his soul she faltered, Oh I can't do this, she thought. He tilted his head to one angle looking at her wondering what was up, what had her looking like she was terrified.
Willow knew that look and understood she needed to say something soon, the silence was becoming uncomfortable for both of them. "Riley, there is a problem with the way Giles healed me, see he used energy from both you and Angel. You because your living, and Angel because he is immortal, and that is what he wanted for me,was to be living. Oh, I am rambling aren't I." Riley just smiled at her and squeezed her hand that he had never let go of. Willow stumbled on,"But, you see when you do magic like that it makes those involved in the spell, well kinda of linked together." She waited for Riley's reaction, he nodded and thought about it for a moment. "I am not sure I understand Willow, what does that mean?" He seemed worried. Willow could understand that worry she had some of her own. As she went into more detail about what she meant she watched as Riley turned several shades of red but managed to stay quiet long enough for her to finish what she was saying. He remained calm, but she could see in his eyes he was anything but calm. What she had related to him, what had been told to her was almost more than either of them knew how to deal with. When she and Xander left Riley's hotel room he looked stunned, and could only seem to get out simple phrases. As she walked out the door Willow couldn't resist lifting up on her tip toes to give him a kiss on the check. Riley more by instinct than thought out reaction, move so that she kissed his lips instead. The power of the brief touch shot through them both. But neither said a word, she went her way, and he went back inside the room.
Talking to an Angel;
After lunch Willow wanted to talk with Angel too. She felt the need to give them both the information, she had and get it over with. It would be all to soon they would be feeling the effects of what the spell had done to them and she knew there was no way around it. Willow looked at Giles and asked if he would go with her, of course he replied and she was off in a matter of a half hour to see Angel. The drive over she could only think how he might react, she went over again and again what she would say to him. How she would make him understand, they really had no choice. It was already done, and the spell wouldn't have worked if they both hadn't been willing to. These were her thoughts as she went to the dark vampire. Once they arrived she was almost afraid to go to the door. Giles assured her that Angel would be fine, he would deal with it. But Willow just wasn't sure she wanted to face him with this bit of news. No matter if he would take it well or not, that was not the point. Being that close to him, feeling the things she was feeling, it just didn't make a good mix. It seemed dangerous, suddenly she thought maybe she should have called him instead, it would have been so much easier to talk with him over the phone. To not have to see the look on his face when she told him this. Taking a deep breath she walked up to the front door of the mansion and knocked lightly. Something in her head saying that if he didn't hear her knock she would not have to tell him now.
But he heard, the door opened slightly and he walked back into the darkness of the room away from the door, letting her come in on her own. Willow moved inside and closed the door behind her. Giles was still in the car getting something and would be in soon. Angel just looked at her, he was much paler than normal. She wondered if he was OK, or if the event between him, Riley and her had taken to much out of the vampire. Angel smiled tentatively and lead her deeper into the dark of his living room. It was huge and she remember the last time she was here. The near miss he and she had. Oh not good, Willow thought, can't think about nearly naked Angel kissing her. It would through off what she was trying to do. She had to state her information and let him decide for himself. This was not going to be easy, Giles where the heck are you, she thought. Another knock at the door and Giles entered quietly. Walking over to where Willow and Angel were sitting, he handed Angel a small cooler, and nodded. " Here is what you asked me for Angel. I am sorry I didn't get it here earlier." Then Giles sat down and look like he was the only man in an all woman's fashion show. Willow nearly giggled at how uncomfortable he was. It made Angel smile to see her laugh like that and even Giles was somewhat grateful for the tension relief. Angel walked his cooler over to the kitchen and put it away giving Willow a chance to make eye contact with Giles without Angel seeing her. Giles simply nodded his ascent and waited for the bomb to be dropped.
When Angel returned he waved Willow and Giles to the couch and seated himself in one of his very large comfortable chairs. His eyes closely watching the silent exchange between the two in front of him. Willow began by telling Angel about the new connection that was now between him Riley and herself. Angel seemed to be taking it all fairly well, better then Riley had. Though Riley had not said anything in distress, Willow knew by the look on his face, it told her he was pretty upset. But Angel in contrast seemed quiet and thoughtful, he looked at Giles as if to ask if it were true. Not that he didn't believe her but this was more than he had expected. According to what was being said, the three of them were linked in spirit as well as a few other ways. They would need to be close together and if one of them were to be hurt or die, the other two would know the pain of it as well. Then there was the really hard part, they would all be drawn to each other in ways that Angel wasn't sure he liked. Riley and he had already had an attraction to Willow. Now that would be amplified, and would in turn cause them to have to react to the needs forged between them. There would be physical needs that would have to either be met or ignored somehow. Giles was not sure they could be ignored but was willing to give Angel the hope that he could control some of it. Fact was Angel even in his weaken state felt the need to be closer to Willow, he wanted to touch her badly, wanted her to touch him. But that would have to wait until the lines were drawn, until he knew just were he stood. It was with more than a little mental control that he let her leave with Giles again. Angel thought about Riley and wondered if he were feeling the same things. He wondered if Riley would be able to control his reaction to the new magic that was pulling them to her. Angel closed the door lightly behind Willow and Giles as they left, then he walked over to the cooler that Giles had brought in and took out some of the blood he would need to be strong enough to control himself. Finishing the second plastic container he let his thoughts wander back to Riley, and what he may have to do next to make Willow his. He could share if it really came to that, he had done it before with Dru. That of course was with his own childer though. Now it would possibly be with a human, and being that the human was Riley did nothing to help his feelings of jealously. Angel was now in full brood mode as he paced through his mansion.
Dealing;
Riley sat down in front of the little TV in his hotel room and clicked channels faster than even he could see. He wasn't really thinking about the shows on the tube, his thought's were centered around a certain red head that even more had dominion over his mind. She was in every second of his thought processes. Riley knew he needed to talk with her... alone, and soon. He could feel his hands on her body now, and he could taste her on his lips. "Willow" he groaned as he closed his eyes letting the image of her wash over him. Was this what she had meant when she told him that he would feel very strong urges, that his body would demand certain things of him now. The very thought that Angel would be feeling these things too was making him winch in anger. She was not some toy to be played with, and he would never share. It was not in him to do something like that, if he loved someone it was only for her and he would want her to only want him. Now that could never be, worse he would need her, want her beyond reason. Riley was getting a taste of that now, in that he could even hear her moans in his mind, as he mentally caressed her skin. The longer he kept his eyes closed the more real it became to him. He couldn't help buy wonder if she felt it too, would she receive his feelings, his fantasies about her? It was a heady thought but one that didn't seem as impossible as it had before.
Riley decided to test this theory, and he heighten his fantasy in his mind, made it more vivid, let his mind run wild with it. He could do anything in his mind this way. He could see if she could feel him touching her, he could in his mind make love to her and she would not be upset with him. There would be no reason to be upset, since even he knew at this point he could barely contain himself. He wanted her in anyway he could have her and this was a way that she would not object to. Maybe sometime soon he would be with her in reality. He was more than ready for that, but he would wait for her. The feelings were intense, he felt her reach out to him and touch him as well, she was soft and sweet, pulling at his hair, kissing him back. Riley shook his head, "it's all in my mind" he thought, no one could really do those things without actual contact. His mind fell back in to their love scene, he folder his arms around her and entered her body that was willing and wet for him. Over and over again they came together, until all at once they both exploded into light. When Riley finally opened his eyes and began to take note of what was around him again, he could see wetness on him, as if she had been filled with his member. He could taste her on his mouth, and smell her everywhere around him. Riley was at a loss and sat there for long moments, suddenly the phone rang and he went to it. Raising the receiver to his face he said somewhat breathlessly, "yeah, hello". The voice on the other end was just as breathless and came in a low erotic hum, "Riley, the name said almost like a question, Riley only answered, "yes?". Willow nearly whispered back at him through the phone, "I see you have found out one of the links secrets". Riley looked stunned as he thought of Willow feeling the things he had done in the dream, he was erect almost immediently. He felt satisfied, but also worried, how would she take this. Willow spoke again and then hung up to quickly for him to answer, "I am coming over, now Riley, you will be there?" then the swift click of the receiver being let down. Riley was stunned, he stood there for a second then decided he would get a shower. Maybe this link thing wouldn't be so bad he smile to himself. Just maybe this was a good thing after all, then his thoughts glanced over Angel, was he going to be able to do the same things? Riley dismissed this thought for now as he went to get cleaned up. He wondered how long he had before Willow got there, she hadn't said were she was, he hurried.
Needs;
Willow had been in the bath when she felt Riley's touch on her body, in her mind. Wondering what was up, but knowing that Giles had told her there would be a very strong mental connection, she closed her eyes hoping to find out what Riley wanted. She was more than a little aroused when she felt the first tentative touches, his mind was making love to her, and she could feel it as if he were there with her now. She sighed and moaned her pleasure as he ran large hands over her body and kissed her lips. Quick thoughts passed through her mind, (it feels so real, oh my, Riley never said he like that before, and why didn't Giles say something about how strong it would be). Once it was over she was even more surprised to find that she could tell Riley had been there, the signs were pretty clear, she was even sore in places she had not been sore in since her only encounter with Angel. She knew she had to see Riley now, she had to find out if he had felt it too. So she called him, when he answer she could tell something was very different about him, he sounded like he had the encounter as well. Willow only let him know she was coming over and hung up, darting back to her bedroom to get dressed. Even she wasn't sure why she was going to him now. Only that she needed to, it seemed all reason had fled and only need was left.
Fantasy encountered;
Angel shuttered and groaned as if he were in pain, he had felt what Willow had been feeling and knew that Riley had done something to start the vision he had of Willow with him, Angel was only an observer. He wondered how Riley had done it, but thought he knew and didn't want to be left out completely. He was more than aroused and also understood that some of what Riley had done in the fantasy were things that Angel himself would have done if he had been there to do it.
He also wondered if Willow had felt it as intensely as he had. If so then, Willow would be on her way, not being able to control the urge to act out the scene in reality. His mind raced with questions, what should he do, let this pass or act on it also. If Riley had only thought those things and made them seem that real then maybe he could too. He wasn't sure he wanted to test it yet, not knowing how Willow was getting to Riley he thought he would wait. But he would not wait in his home, he would go where he knew Riley was staying and watch to see if she showed up there first. It was close to sunset as he got dressed to go, he waited long enough to let the sun disappear and left moving quickly as he thought about what he would do if she was there, would he stop her from going in, and take her himself. Or should he let her go to Riley and finish what was already started. Once he was in line of sight were he could see her if she showed he didn't have to wait long and she was there. He was glad that he lived closer to where Riley was than she did, it made getting there quicker. If he had been further away he would have missed seeing her and would not have had the chance to say anything to her.
She was walking toward that hotel when Angel stopped her, a hand gently placed on her arm. Willow seemed surprised and smiled at him, her green eyes glowing with need, he knew she had felt it all. She was going to Riley as he thought she would. But he had no idea what to say to her. What to do to make her feel that way toward him again. Willow just looked at him and touched his face. "Angel, she whispered , what are you doing here". He paused for a second and answered, " I am here for you Willow. I am always here for you". Her eyes grew even larger than normal and she leaned into him. He could feel her warm little body so very close to him, as she wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled his face to hers. They stood just outside the hotel and he allowed her to kiss him, exploring her mouth gently, he could feel Riley in the back of his mind, watching them.
~Part: 11~
Tempest
Riley stood at the tiny microwave in his hotel room heating up water for tea or coffee. His thoughts charged with wondering what was up with Willow. He knew he had done something but his mind was now busy trying to rationalize it into some kind of easy to explain way. There didn't seem to be much reason he should believe in the "link" but somehow that didn't make he feel any different. He was nervous and distracted as microwaves beep brought him back to the real world again. Riley opened the little door and pulled his cup from the inside. Riley could feel his hands start to shake. He looked at his hand holding the cup and his eyes seemed to blur somewhat.
Riley sat back down on the stool and waited for it to pass, but it didn't, he was seeing something in his mind and he wasn't sure that it wasn't real. Riley closed his eyes and took a deep breath, he was rewarded with a quick flash of Willow in Angel's arms outside the hotel he himself was in. The kiss was tender and passionate and Riley was feeling every tender second of it. He could feel his heart being ripped from him, it was one thing to know that Willow and Angel had been together. It was something completely different to see it, and feel it. Knowing that if he was able to feel the way he did with Willow and not be with her then maybe Angel was doing the same thing. It made sense really, but no, this was more than real the area was not some cul-de-sac or romantic place imagined. But a very real street right outside Riley's hotel. Real or not, dream or spirit link. Whatever was happening Riley wanted it to end.
So it did, suddenly and with a quick jerk Riley felt as if they had been pulled apart and a fear gripped his stomach. Jumping to his feet he tore out the door of the hotel room and down the hall. He wasn't sure why but he felt as if danger were all around Willow and Angel now, he had to be there to help. He didn't take long to get where Angel was, his body laying on the ground as Riley loomed over him. Kneeling he helped Angel onto his side and looked him over. Angel's eyes flew open and he went full game face with a start, making Riley jump back a bit. "What happened Angel," Riley spit out at him. Angel stood and Riley looked him over carefully his eyes searching for any reason why something could just down the over two centuries old vampire in one blow. His answer came when he noticed a tiny dart that seemed to have been hooked up to some wires. Taker gun, Riley thought to himself. He walked to Angel and pulled the tiny metal object from Angel's shoulder and showed it to him. "Pretty high tech stuff." Riley quriped. Angel nodded, as Riley said, "looks like they meant to keep you out of the way with this". Which to Riley, had to have been what happened, how else could you explain Angel's prone figure.
Worse, who would take Willow, and Riley knew she had been taken as did Angel. They could both feel that she was alive and awake, but that she could not see what was happening to her. Willow's fear was in a close race with her anger, there was a sense in her that she maybe knew these kidnappers. This time it wasn't about Angel, but something to do with Willow herself. Angel and Riley began using their link to figure out where she might be headed, and to Rille's surprise he could feel her on a helichopter. One of the very same they used to haul him around when he was on a mission. Riley relayed the information to Angel, who just gave Riley a somber look as they both began to set up for the fight they knew was coming. Angel called Dander and Giles letting them know what was up , but at the same time making sure they would stay clear of this on. He also asked Giles for more information on how the link would work. Since he and Riley both seemed to be getting feelings and some type of vision from her, he felt they maybe could track her that way too.
Just plain stupid
Willow was starting to wake up good and notice what was going on around her. She almost laughed at the stupid way she was tired up and how it seemed that everyone and their mother wanted her for some strange reason. This bunch looked military, and she surmised they may have had something to do with Riley at one point or another. This just didn't make any sense as she never did anything to the military , well except for when she , Buffy , Giles , and Xander got together to make Buffy a more powerful slayer so that she could defeat Adam. Willow looked at her hands in front of her and decided these people had no idea who they were messing with. A couple of simple words and her hands and feet were free. She did seem to remember being jolted and knocked out somehow, so she looked carefully looked around to see what these guys would on her to get that effect. One of the guards closest to her had what looked like one of those electric guns, or tazer.
Willow just smiled to herself and said another couple of words those items all disappeared, along with any and all other guns of any sort. She sat there and pretended to still be tired up and such watching them as the three men did what they were most likely ordered to do. She never really got what they were up to before they noticed that she was no longer tied. Not that it mattered, as soon as she knew she was found out Willow simple did a disappearing act and returned herself to the presence of Angel and Riley. They were both standing at a table looking over some papers and making plans. Riley had just said something about he was pretty sure the ones that captured Willow didn't really want to hurt her, just study her some. Angel just growled at the thought of anyone holding her captive, making Willow smile.
Sitting behind them both on a nice comfortable chair she watched them for a bit until Angel's nose told him someone else was there, he turned his head and saw Willow first, letting out and sigh and snort of disbelief. Riley turned and seeing Willow nearly dive at her giving her a big hug and kiss, completely forgetting Angel was there. Willow just giggled and Angel was asking questions. How , why, what the hell happened? With a shrug of her slender shoulders she sighed, " They didn't know they were picking on a very powerful witch, I just sorta blinked out of there." Angel smiled and Riley just scratched his head. " You really are full of surprises aren't you". Willow smiled and nodded to them, "of course, someone around here has to be the very powerful wiccan." Her smile, was almost to bright, " can't have my favorite men baling me out every five seconds." Both Riley and Angel looked at each other as if they were at a complete loss for words. Willow was beginning to feel the need to move form her stop on the chair. Riley was eyeing her like she was a chocolate bar and Angel looked as if he could eat her alive.
The whole thing was making her very nervous so she got slowly up and stepped toward the door. I suppose I should go home and get cleaned up. Angel was the first to move and he steeped in front of the door barring her way out. Riley stood next to her and brushed one stray lock of fiery hair from her cheek. Riley spoke in soft tones to her and Angel stood smiling as he waited for her response. "Willow, we have been talking a lot since you got grabbed, and we kinda of decided that if you don't mind we would be happy to ,, to,, well umm let you take your time deciding which one of us you want." His eyes went dark with passion, and she could feel her heart begin to race. Angel ran his fingers up her arm softly and let them rest on her collar bone just above her neckline on her blouse. Riley took her hand and kissed her forehead gently. Willow was nearly in shock, her body trembling she closed her eyes hard and waited. This is just a dream, she thought. But when she reopened them they were still there looking slightly amused at her as she wondered what to do next.
Willow retrieved her hand from Riley and took a step back from Angel. Looking at them both she began, "Well then you guys wont mind if I take a day off from all this to regroup and gather my thoughts." they looked crushed at first but nodded their ascent to her request. She would need sometime to think about all this. Just because they had talked about it didn't mean she would be able to deal with it all that fast.
Angel and Riley both watched nearly in disappear as she walked out the door. Her head held high she turned and looked back at them with a smile. " Don't look so glum, I will be back soon," she promised. The two men looked at each other again and Riley shook his golden head, "She is very hard headed," he smiled. Angel answered, " Don't I know it,". They watched as she left and knew they would wait for her to return. The bond that was forged between Willow and them seemed also to have an effect on how they behaved together. Not so much as best buds, but they did seem to be forming a friendship, regardless of their compition over Willow. She had to believe this was a good thing and soon all would be resolved.
Willow thoughts;
Willow had left the guys over 4 hours ago and already she felt like she needed to get back to them. Her body if nothing else was itching with need unfulfilled, and she knew that soon she would get together with one of them at least. She kinda of smiled to herself knowing that letting the bond do it's magic was the best thing she could do. Angel and Riley would become more or less friends and she would be their focus. That seemed to be the one part that kinda scared her. Willow laid down after having a hot shower and covering herself in body lotion. She still had aches and pains that she wasn't sure how she had gotten.
Looking over her body some she could still see the scars from her time spent with the vampiress. That one had been close, most creatures or people didn't know what she was capable of. How much power she had at her disposal, and how easy it was for her to tap into it. But the female vampire had know a great deal, and had contained her powers, keeping her helpless. It was a terrifying thought, that someone could know that much about how to keep her helpless. Giles had assured her that once Buffy had destroyed the "Seal of Magus" that she would be safe. There were very few things of magical origin that could stop Willow from using her powers and Giles had Buffy destroy one of them. Looking over those scars she shuttered, they were still deep and angry looking. As if she had only been healed a day or so. She knew she should really be dead, that if not for the efforts of the watcher, Angel and Riley she would be. Sleep seemed to want her badly and she walked to her comfy bed and curled up laying on her side, she let her mind go and fell into a deep sleep.
Willow felt like she was floating, her arms and legs weightless and drifting. She watched as she seemed to be moving toward the soft green grass that had been below her. Gentle fields rolled around where she was and the smell of honeysuckle was everywhere. Coming closer to the ground she felt two pair of strong hands taking her body gently and laying her down so that she was looking up at the blue skies. White fluffy clouds dappled the pale blue above her and she smiled to herself, " this must be heaven" her thoughts light and happy. A voice came from all around her, " Not yet child, you have more to do". Willow raised up to see who had spoken and was surprised to see both Angel and Riley sitting not 2 feet from where she had laid. One on either side of her, she glanced at them both with a quick smile.
Then she noticed the shinning figure in front of her. She looked up to see who it was and still she wasn't sure. The imagine seemed to shimmer and glow, a soft voice came to her from the figure, "Ho, child of Earth, welcome to my home". Willow couldn't tell if the voice was female or male. The form of the light floated near her and reached out a hand touching her on the sides. First one then the other, Willow could feel the burning form the touch and wondered if she would be more scared than she was, "There child of Earth, you are cleaned." as the form moved away from her. Willow looked at her sides and saw no visible scars there now. "Why have you done this," she asked. The lighted form nodded her way and glowed brighter, " because of what you are, you have your friends, are being called to service," Willow looked back at Angel and Riley, her eyes peering at them in curious ways, both of them looked at her as well.
But not one word was spoken between them, It was as if she and they already knew what they were to do. As she watched them her dream began to fade, and she found herself curled up in her bed with both Angel and Riley next to her. Willow shook her head to clear it and got gently up. Standing at the end of the bed she noticed that both men were sleeping so that their backs were to each other.
Facing the Future;
Riley was the first to wake, he turned and was stunned to see Angel sleeping in the bed next to him. Riley stood and stated to go into the bathroom when he heard the shower running, looking around her knew he in Willow's place and decided that it was very likely that Willow was the one in the shower. So he headed where she was, hoping she had just gotten in there. Opening the door letting the steam poor out he smiled, scented soaps were being used and he knew he would love to join in on that. Riley quietly steeped in the bathroom and shut the door behind him, Then walked up to the shower door looking over the top.
Willow's hair was full of shampoo and she was trying to adjust the water so it would run over the top of her head. Riley moved his hand in the stream of water blocking it from washing out the soap in Willow's hair. She reached up and tried again only to come in contact with Riley's hand still blocking her stream. Willow yelped and looked up at him, his eyes shinning at her in humor. She smiled at him and turned several shades of red as she watched him disrobe just outside the shower.
His eyes never leaving hers he asked "Mind if I join you there?". Willow giggled and opened the shower door enough for him to come in with her. His body shivered as the hot water sluiced over him and she pushed him into the main spray so that he would get most of the water. She picked up her loofah soaping him up in lazy circles, letting her hands caress him where ever, Riley closed his eyes in what looked to Willow almost like pain. His soft moan let her know he was really not. Willow grew bolder and began running her hands behind him washing his bottom while pressing his body to his in full fontal contact. Riley's eyes nearly rolled back in his head as he warped both arms around her and kissed her deeply. His body already answering as he felt his erection become uncomfortably stiff.
Riley pressed his member against her belly as he kissed her and Willow thought she would explode with pleasure. She made him feel this way, and that was power of it's own. Willow dug her finer nails into Riley's butt pulling him even closer and he pulled her up off her feet so that she could wrap her legs around him. Willow clamped both legs tightly around his waist and pushed her hands into his now wet hair. Holding on to handfuls of it for balance and so that he would not remove his sweet mouth from hers. Willow began rubbing her body up and down his making it even hared for him to think as their tongues dueled heatedly. In one quick movement he filled her with himself and plunged into her deeper than she had remembered from the last time.
Willow tossed her head back and sighed, pleasure filling her over and over again. Somewhere in her mind she could almost hear Angel's moans as well. The feeling making her even hotter, knowing that he was in her bed and Riley was filling her now. What must he be thinking, she wondered vaguely, and when she thought this suddenly she could almost sense that it was Angel and not Riley filling her body, Taking her roughly in her shower, making her nearly scream out when her passion took it's toll over her little body. Riley held her in his arms, spent and breathing heavily into her neck, Willow could feel his blunt teeth nipping at her and she wondered how much of her mind and Riley's had dealt with the same images.
Breakfast of Champion's;
Once Riley and Willow got their shower out of the way they discussed the idea of breakfast. Willow was starving but didn't really have anything in the house she wanted so it was decided that Riley would dress and go out to get lots and lots of jelly donuts. Willow smiled as she smack his behind and walked him to the door, silky green robe hanging lousy on her slim body. Riley slipped a and in and gave a quick squeeze to one of her breasts and she patted his hand away playfully. He grinned and walked out the door a smile on his face.
Willow walked back into the bedroom and made sure the curtains were well closed so Angel didn't have to worry about the late afternoon sun. She glance at him and felt her heart tighten, so much she had gone through, so much he had gone through also. Sometimes you could see the pain in his body, what the fates had done to him was unimaginable. Why would anyone want to deal with what he had been through. Willow watched for a moment as he slept. She knew during the day it was very hard for a vampire to wake. He was more or less at her mercy, that thought brought a smile to her face. But she shook her head and walked to her night stand to pick out her underwear for the day. She wasn't really paying much attention until Angel's hand reached out and linked fingers with hers.
Sleep still holding tight to Angel's mind he only knew she was near, and he wanted to touch her. Willow sat down on the side of the bed letting her finger gently comb through his dark hair. He levered himself up enough to laid his head in her lap, warping his arms around her legs. Willow smiled her body taking note of the vampire holding her in a near death grip. Her minor arousal didn't go unnoticed by Angel who's face was already nearly buried in her lap. The warm scent of her sex filled his nose and he pulled in an unneeded breath.
A soft growl escaped his lips as he pulled her tighter to him, pushing his face closer to the alluring aroma. Willow noticing his movements wiggled enough for her robe to pull away from her legs letting Angel get a face full of bare heated flesh. Without thinking he began giving small kisses to her inner thighs and Willow sighed, letting her hands bury themselves in his hair. Angel responded to her actions pushing his face closer to her sweetness. Willow let her legs fall apart just a little and Angel took that as an invitation.
He began nipping at her inner thighs and nudged his way up to her soft inner lips laving the slightly moist slit with his very talent tounge. Willow moaned softly and Angel's sensitive ears picked up on the sound. It was like pouring gas on a fire as he rolled with her in his arms laying her body comfortably under his. He pulled her hips up where he could reach better and warped his arms around her legs allowing no escape now. Willow, caught off guard felt as if she was going to melt in his capable hands.
Angel looked up long enough to take in Willow's heated expression and her nearly naked body. He let one hand roam over her stomach and up to tug one nipple, pinching it lightly. Just enough to make Willow moan again, then he buried his face between her thighs. Willow let her hands hold on to his head, and she felt herself began to pull him right where she needed him to be. Angel feasted as if he were a staving man and she felt her body began to shutter as her climax came crashing down on her like waves in the ocean. Angel growled and pulled his form up her body in a slow predatory manner.
Willow's eyes were wide and filled with renewed want, as he lapped at her rounded mounds, taking her tight little nipples one at a time between his teeth and lips plundering them gently. Angel stopped long enough to pull his sweat pants off. His proud erection bobbing out for all to see. Willow nearly gasped, she didn't really get the chance to see it the last time they were together, it was dark and she was more than surprised. Angel pulled her into his arms and kissed her deeply letting her taste herself in his mouth. With one quick thrust he entered her already wet core, stopping long enough for her to grow accustom to his size before he began thrusting into her.
Angel moved again so that she was facing away from him but still sitting on his lap. He allowed his hands to roam her body, pinching her nipples gently and rubbing thick fingers over her slit as he entered her from behind. His body raging, he growled again and his face changed. Angel was holding her body close to his as she moaned her delight to him. He wanted to wait until she came again, so he slowed his movements letting her get comfortable, then changing tempo again. Causing Willow to squeal with delight, her body reeling with her release. Angel let himself release right after her and clung to her body kissing her shoulder. Willow panted and leaned forward letting Angel's body drape over hers. He rolled over and smiled up at her as she collapsed to the bed. " Goodmorning, Willow", he grinned. Willow sighed and laid on her side letting her fingers trace circles on his bare chest. "Good morning to you too, " she whispered.
Becoming;
Willow smiled at both men as she happily munch her third jelly doughnut. " So what do we do now, " Angel asked. Riley looked at him and then at Willow his eyes dancing, "Well, if today is any indication, I think we will do fine." Willow only shook her lovely head, some of the jelly having caught on the corner of her mouth she answered them both, " We can only do what we are meant to do. I am sure we will know in time what that is." . Angel reached out with one finger and dapped the jelly form her mouth, Riley lean in and kissed the rest of it away, Willow's eyes never left the dark vampires as he licked the finger with the jelly clean.
The END?