Parts: 11 - 20
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~Part: 11~
Two weeks had passed without incidence. Angel had not had any sightings of his childer. Willow continued getting flashbacks, mostly while she slept. Giles had attempted to find a reversal spell, to counter-act the one Dru performed, but so far was without luck. The trio decided it would be best to leave Xander and Buffy uniformed about the true reason for the mysterious vampire's appearance. They knew those two would stake first, ask questions later.
Angel, for all the differences they had in the past, didn't want to see Spike as dust. He kept a close eye on Willow, as promised. She was accepting everything rather well it seemed. At least that is what she wanted them to think. Truth was, the visions she was having caused her to be extremely confused.
She had a hard time with all the feelings that came with them. It was difficult to tell what was real and what wasn't. In all her flashbacks, she felt this amazing amount of love, caring, and concern. It was becoming hard to ignore these feelings that she was having for a man, a vampire, she had really only met once. At least in this lifetime.
She made it through yet another monotonous day of school and went home. She managed to ditch Angel, who had become her permanent vampire escort, when Buffy practically begged him to go patrolling with her. Since he had spent so much time watching after her, Buffy was definitely dealing with Angel-missage.
She smiled at that thought. Buffy was one of the strongest, most independent people she had ever met, and Angel had inadvertently reduced the stubborn slayer to begging. It was a sight to behold. Xander didn't really find it that amusing though. Xander still had the world's largest crush on Buffy Summers, so when the slayer pleaded with the souled vampire to spend time with her, he was seething. He would jump through hoops to have Buffy ask him to patrol with her, alone.
Well, served him right. He may be her best friend, but she had a major crush on him for the longest time. If he was so ignorant of her obvious love for him, then she was glad Buffy was equally oblivious.
She made herself comfortable at her desk, setting up her laptop, preparing to finally finish her English paper. Then she would try to get some shut eye. Knowing her luck, the second she fell into a peaceful sleep, Angel would come knocking at her French doors, just to see that she made it home okay.
He was so overprotective lately. She understood why, but it was quickly becoming annoying. She already had one vampire stalker, she didn't need another.
She glanced furtively at her balcony doors. She swore she could feel eyes on her. She figured it could be Angel, but he would usually at least say hi before he stood guard. She knew it was potentially stupid to step outside the safety of her home, but she had always been a curious creature. They always say that curiosity killed the cat, well, she wasn't a cat, damn it.
She peeked out through the glass, upon seeing nothing, she stepped out into the crisp, night air. She took a deep, cleansing breath. The smells that lingered in the breeze filled her with a feeling a peace, it had a soothing effect on her rather stressed mind. She closed her eyes, allowing the calmness to surround her as she was pulled into another distant memory.
~~~*~~~
She was standing on a balcony, staring into the vast gardens below her. The moon was shining, illuminating everything in sight with an unearthly glow. She sighed unnecessarily as she took in the sight before her. She was at another all around boring social occasion, feigning interest in whatever the snobby guests had to say.
She smiled brightly when she sensed her sire behind her. Strong arms wrapped around her waist and he placed a kiss as the base of her neck. It was a wholly inappropriate image for the times, but neither worried about propriety.
She turned in his arms, drowning in the emotions that were in his eyes. They were so full of pride, lust, and most of all love.
"What do you say," he pondered lazily as he pulled her closer, "that we get out of here pet?" She grinned, her only response was a hard kiss as she latched onto his hand pulled him toward the nearest exit.
"You always have the best ideas Spike," she replied as she melted into his embrace.
~~~*~~~
Willow could swear that she felt his arms around her. These visions were becoming more intense. When she had them during her waking hours, they were more disorienting. She was in no hurry to come back to consciousness. She felt safe, loved, and she didn't want to wake up anytime soon.
She let out a ragged breath and reluctantly opened her eyes. Her head fell as she realized that it was over. She tensed when she saw a pair of hands resting on her hips. She became conscious of the fact that the arms she felt holding her were no figment of her imagination.
"Shhh, luv, I'm not here to hurt you," a soft voice whispered in her ear. She turned to face him and took a nervous step back. He immediately registered the loss of her in his arms and frowned.
"Why are you here?" she questioned, her eyes darting nervously, avoiding his eyes.
"I had to see you," he stated simply. "I missed you."
"You don't know me. How can you miss me?"
"I know you, you're beginning to remember. To remember everything we had, what we can have again."
"She may have looked like me, but that wasn't me. I'm not her."
"I knew her, in life and death, trust me pet, you *are* her. I don't want to scare you Willow," he implored. "I just want to love you."
"It's not that simple, things are not how they were. I'm not some 18th century girl Spike. I'm not the childe you fell in love with. I'm sorry for your loss, I truly am, but I am not her replacement," she argued.
He shook his head in frustration, "You don't understand! You're not some replacement. You're not ready yet, but you will be. I'll make you understand. I don't want you to be afraid of me, that's the last thing I want. But I'm not letting you go. Not this time, not ever."
And with that he gave her one last look, full of longing, and vanished.
~Part: 12~
Willow was debating her options. She knew she should tell Angel about her.interesting encounter with Spike last night, but he hadn't hurt her, he didn't threaten her, and she really didn't feel like having Angel become a permanent fixture outside her bedroom window. She knew he would freak, well, as much as a quiet, brooding vampire could freak.
She had finally convinced him that he didn't have to be at her side at all times of the day, and this news would assure the vampire that he needed to be near her constantly.
Angel refused to go into to details about the past that he and his childer shared. Even the parts that involved her, and she didn't want to pry, but she felt it might be important to know. She just couldn't get him to open up. So in turn, she refused to tell him about her visions, her memories. He didn't know how frequent they were, or how powerful. She tried not to be alone in a public place after dark, in fear of having another vision. Minutes after them, she would still be disoriented. She couldn't focus on her surroundings at all. She was worried that she would find herself alone and out of it and become easy prey.
She thought back to the night before. While part of her was frightened by Spike's refusal to listen to reason, another part of her loved the devotion he showed her. He swore that he loved her too much to let her go. At the same time it felt amazing and alarming. It was every girl's dream to have someone love you that much. But he was in love with a memory; she couldn't possibly be the woman he was so obsessed with.
She couldn't accept what he wanted. She knew that if she ever gave in, he would turn her, eventually. She spent her life fighting demons, there was no way she could become one.
She decided that the conversation with Spike last night would be kept private. She just wanted to have a quiet night at home, to rest and try to clear her confused mind. Unfortunately her friends had other plans.
"You have to go Wills," whined Xander. She knew the only reason he was so adamant about her appearance at the Bronze was so he wasn't left alone with Buffy and Angel. "It wouldn't be the same without you."
She rolled her eyes at him. She was all ready to brush him off when Buffy joined in.
"Really Will, you haven't been around a lot lately. But it's a Friday night, and I know you have *no* homework, so you have to come spend time with us. It's the weekend, it's almost a rule that we have to party. Even Giles gave me the night off. Pretty please, I'll be your bestest friend forever!!" She giggled at her friend's antics and reluctantly agreed to show.
Willow left the library after they persuaded her to go with them to the Bronze. She made a stop at home, changing quickly, before heading to the club. It was a little after sunset when she arrived. She had been vision-free for the day, and all in all, things were good.
She saw Xander doing something that resembled dancing on the floor, her eyes drifting to the tables in search of Buffy. The slayer was perched at a table near the back door, Angel hovered behind her. They weren't speaking, just listening to the sounds in the club, taking everything in.
She felt her lips twitch slightly into a small smile as she walked to her friends. She was relieved to find that Angel had decided to be Buffy's shadow for the evening instead of hers.
She joined the couple, nodding her hello.
"What's a matter guys?" she asked when she noticed the looks of concentration on their faces.
"Vamps," Buffy replied, "my spider-sense has been tingling since the sun went down. Something's going on. Problem is I can't tell where they are." She was beginning to get frustrated. "Can you do me a favor Wills? Get Xander and bring him here. We may need some extra hands."
Willow nodded and weaved her way through the dense crowd. Blue eyes followed her every movement. The bleach blonde leaned over slightly, whispering his orders to one of his minions. "You and a couple of the boys go get something to eat." The younger vampire bowed his head and met with two of his companions. They each grabbed a girl and escorted them out the front door, and into the darkened alley.
Buffy caught their movements in the corner of her eye. She signaled Angel to follow her. Willow reached their table just before they left.
"What's the hurry Buff?" she asked, Xander behind her, waiting for news.
"Spotted a couple vamps going out for a snack. Gotta go do the slayer thing." The group headed toward the entrance. Buffy kept walking as she spoke suddenly. "Wills, I might need a couple extra stakes, can you run back to the table and grab `em really quick?" She agreed and turned her back to her friends in search of Buffy's purse.
She was pulling out various items left and right, none being the stake she was looking for. She knew that Buffy and the others were already outside, so she tried to hurry. Finally finding what she was looking for, she dropped her friend's bag and started toward the door. She was forced to an abrupt stop when she ran into someone. In her rush she hadn't noticed there was anyone in front of her.
"Oh.uh, sorry," she mumbled as she tried to pass.
"Not a problem luv," a smooth, accented voice replied. Her eyes immediately flew to his. "I can't say that running into you is, in anyway, a bad thing." Her eyes darted nervously to the door, hoping that Angel would walk inside, she didn't fear for her life, but she was in no way calm at the moment.
He noticed her glance and smirked, "Just you an' me pet."
"What are you doing here?" she managed to ask. He merely smiled and took her arm in a light grip, pulling her onto the dance floor. She was more than surprised when he ignored her question and simply held her close, swaying slightly to slow beat of the song playing. He felt her relax a little against him and smiled. He looked down into her confused eyes.
"Just here to dance, my love. I promise." She nodded hesitantly. He could still smell her fear and frowned. "You have no reason to be scared. I told you I didn't want to hurt you, and I meant that. I need you to believe me." She nodded.
"Why can't you just leave me be Spike?" she sighed.
"I could never leave you be," he replied gently. "I'm going to ask you for a favor, ok? Tomorrow night, I would like to talk with you. No games, no sire, no interruptions. We *need* to talk." He brought his hand up, his fingers tracing the line of her jaw. "Your balcony, nine o'clock, just us. If you feel afraid, you can always stay inside your room. Just please let me talk to you," he pleaded.
She didn't know why but she just couldn't refuse him.
"Yeah Spike, we can talk." Under her breath she added, "Maybe I can finally convince you I'm not your long-lost love." His chuckle startled her.
"You can do many things, sweet, except that." As the song came to an end, he brought her closer to him, and before she could react, kissed her swiftly. He spun her into the crowd as he disappeared into the night.
She let out a breath she didn't know she was holding when she saw her friends return. So much for an event-free night in Sunnydale.
~Part: 13~
Angel knew she was lying. The night before, at the Bronze, she was no where to been seen when they dispatched those fledglings. Something must have happened. She had obviously been shaken up; he could detect the lingering scent of her fear when he got close to her. But she still refused to admit there was anything wrong. She had simply said that she got held up looking for Buffy's extra stakes. Her friends believed her, thinking their Wills would never lie to them.
But Angel knew better, and he was determined to get it out of her.
~~~*~~~
Willow was finally able to relax as she sunk onto her bed. It had been a tense day, she spent most of it worrying about Spike. She knew she was a bad liar and she thought that Buffy and Xander would never buy her lame excuse for her disappearance the night before. But surprisingly they did, their trust in her made her feel even worse for lying to them. Not so surprisingly, Angel didn't buy it.
She could tell by the look in his eye that he didn't believe a word she said. She had never been more relieved when Giles insisted that Angel join Buffy on patrol, seemed there was a group of assorted demons trying to raise another, some Judge guy, or something. The watcher had sent the two looking for clues to their whereabouts.
She jumped when she heard a faint knocking at her balcony doors. Her eyes searched for her alarm clock which read nine o'clock, on the dot. Apparently Spike was a very punctual demon.
She approached her doors cautiously. Even though every part of her being was screaming that he was evil, he could kill her, she wasn't truly frightened of him. She was frightened by his obsession, by the knowledge that he would most likely do anything to get her, lastly, she was terrified of the idea that this demon, whom she had seen at his best and worst moments thanks to her visions, could bring out feelings in her that she wasn't prepared to acknowledge.
She reached the doors, opening them slowly, taking in his ever consistent uniform of black and red. But she had to admit, he could definitely work the denim and leather. It seemed that he exuded confidence, danger, and sex. He just couldn't help it.
"Come in Spike," she stated softly. She turned her back to him and sat on the edge of her bed. When she finally looked back at him, he was still standing outside, a look of shock on his face. She snorted, knowing it took a *lot* to shock him.
He seemed to come back to the present, wiping the look off his face, replacing it with his standard smirk and a quirked eyebrow. "You always did surprise me luv," he managed to declare. She simply shrugged.
"Call me stupid, but for some strange reason I trust you. A little," she amended. "Plus I figured we should both be comfortable." He cocked his head to the side, as if contemplating her answer. Then he simply bowed his head slightly, and took a seat at her desk.
"Could never call you stupid pet, you are many things, but daft you are not," he said.
"I.I wanted to talk to you.about that," she broke in hesitantly. "Why do you keep doing that, talking as if you know me. We only met a few weeks ago, and even then we've only talked for a couple minutes, if that." She held up her hand to stop him when he tried to speak. "I know, you think I'm someone you used to know. I know a lot more about that then you probably realize. But it doesn't work like that. People, they're once in a lifetime. I know you loved this girl, trust me I know, but I can't be her. No one, demon or no, should suffer a loss like you did Spike. But you can't do this, think that because I remind you of her, I can somehow take her place."
She glanced at him, noting the closed expression on his face. She could tell he was not happy.
"Why do you do that?" he growled out. "Why do you insist that it isn't possible? You're so quick to dismiss what could be. Are you so bloody afraid of your own emotions that you refuse to entertain the possibility that someone could love you like I can?"
"I'm not questioning that Spike, but I can't be who you want me to be. You have this ideal; you've spent all these years alone after losing your childe, thinking about her, missing her. You don't know what you want. I'm not who you think I am. I'm not some 18th century Irish girl who you met at some party. I'm Willow, seventeen years old, from Sunnydale, California. I'm in high school; I'm a bookworm, friend of the slayer. I'm not mysterious, or intriguing. I am just me. I may have these memories, but that doesn't mean anything. I'm not trying to hurt you Spike, but you have to understand, you aren't in love with me, we could never be together. Nothing could ever come of this."
"Don't tell me what I do or don't know. You think you're different than the girl I knew before, well I hate to break it to ya sweetheart, but you are exactly like her in everyway. I know you better than anyone ever will. And I'm gonna keep telling you that until you understand that it's true."
"You don't know me!" she shouted, frustration getting the better of her. "That's just it! We don't know each other. You're a freakin' vampire for God's sake! You don't love me because you don't know me! You're just so desperate to get back what you lost that you'll believe whatever you want, whether it's true or not. And, hello, you're a demon. You're supposed to be all evil, not following me around like a fangy puppy! What's your issue?" She immediately regretted her outburst when she saw the amber glow in his eyes.
He stood sharply, nearly knocking over the chair he was previously sitting in. She cringed at his angry gaze. He stalked to her balcony doors, only stopping once he had a foot outside.
"Look, Spike, I didn't mean it like that, it's just." he silenced her with an angry glare.
"Fine," he snarled, "You want a demon, then you've got `im." She became increasingly worried as he stared at her. He looked like he was barely restraining his demon.
"I wasn't lying when I told you I won't let you go. I'll give you some time to think things over, come to me willingly. But after that, we play it my way." She could feel her heart beating erratically. "Oh, and by the way," he added, cockiness seeping its way back into his voice, "thanks for the invite *luv*."
~Part: 14~
"Oh, this is bad, this is very bad. God, Willow, what were you thinking?" she asked herself. "Yeah, let's piss off the demon, that's smart. AND give him an all access pass to your house. That couldn't have gone worse if I tried."
She couldn't help but feel uncomfortable in her own room. It had been a couple of hours since Spike left and she knew he probably wouldn't do anything tonight, but that did not help her sleep.
She paced her bedroom, staring at the floor with unseeing eyes. She nearly jumped out of her skin when she felt a cold hand rest on her shoulder.
"Willow?" asked a deep, masculine voice. She relaxed slightly, it was only Angel. "Are you okay; you look a little shook up? And why are your French doors open, I thought I told you to always lock them."
Before she could answer, she felt his grip tighten and he spun her around to face him. His eyes held concern and anger.
"Why do I smell Spike here?" he growled.
"Um, yeah, about that.Spike came by here. He said he wanted to talk."
"And you what.invited him in for some small talk?!" he snarled.
"Don't get all.grrrr with me mister. I knew what I was doing. Well, kind of. But nothing happened. I'm still here, neck intact, thank you very much!"
"What happened?" he demanded in a calm, cool voice.
"Well, um, see, he wanted to talk.about us. And I kept trying to tell him that there *is* no us, but he wouldn't listen. We just ended up arguing." She finished her explanation, adding under her breath, "Then I sorta insulted him, asking him why he was following me around like a puppy instead of trying to kill me. That kinda made him mad."
"You WHAT?!" She flinched at the fury in his voice.
"I wasn't thinking, really. It just sorta came out. I said he was a freakin' vampire, all evil and stuff, and he was acting all sad and pathetic. He didn't take too kindly to that. He just got all quiet, but his eyes were all yellow. And then he stomped to the door, and he said that he'd give me a few days to think and come to him willingly, then we'd do it his way."
Angel sank onto the corner of her bed.
"Well, I'm definitely keeping an eye on you now. You didn't manage to resolve anything Willow, you just made it worse, much worse."
"You think I don't know that?" she asked meekly. "And now he can come and go as he pleases. I just don't know how I'm going to sleep here. How did things get so messed up Angel? I've got a vampire stalker, another as my watchdog, no offense, I'm keeping all this secret to protect my friends. I'm getting all these visions I can't even make heads or tails of that always leave me disoriented. I'm afraid to go out alone because I'm worried I'll get another flashback and get all confused and become some vamp's midnight snack. I don't know how much longer I can keep doing this."
Angel stood, stopping her pacing and pulling her into his arms.
"Shhh, it will be okay Will. I promise, I'll keep you safe. Things will be fine." He rested his chin on the top of her head and stroked her back to calm her. "Why didn't you tell me that the memories were so disconcerting?" She sniffled.
"I didn't want you to worry. I know you Angel, you'd get all concerned and overprotective. Buffy misses spending time with you. You shouldn't have to be watching over me."
"Wills, Buffy can take care of herself. But you need help. This is a lot to handle by yourself. I can honestly say that I know Spike better than anyone else, so who better to keep you safe. I know that he believes he loves you, so he doesn't *want* to hurt you. But remember, he's a demon, he will harm you it that's what it takes to get what he wants."
He shifted her in his arms and walked them to her bed. He sat on the edge, setting her next to him, her head resting on his shoulder.
"The memories have to make it harder. I had no idea they were so powerful." She nodded.
"Part of me knows what Spike is, and knows I should not trust him. But these memories, they show me how caring and loving he can be. And part of me wants that. Wants someone to love me with such intensity. That part of me keeps telling me to listen to him, to believe everything he tells me. I know he's evil Angel, I do. But part of me just doesn't care." Angel simply wrapped his arm around her shoulder, lending her silent comfort.
Angel looked at her alarm clock. It was now a little after midnight. It was a Saturday night, so was relieved to know that she could sleep in the next day. The poor girl needed some rest.
"Willow," he began softly, "why don't you come back to my apartment. You can take my bed, you need to sleep. I'll be able to watch you, since you don't feel safe here." She moved, looking at him warily.
"I promise to be a perfect gentleman," he promised with a twinkle in his eye. She laughed and agreed. She rose from her bed and grabbed a small overnight bag.
She began to grab random pieces of clothing into her bag. She made a quick stop in her bathroom to grab her toothbrush and various others items. Angel was standing on her balcony, looking out onto the darkened residential street. His eyes were scanning the immediate area for any sign of a threat. Satisfied that no one was there, he turned and went back inside, waiting for the redhead to finish packing.
Willow walked to Angel, with a hesitant smile on her face. "I'm ready." He smiled reassuringly and extended his hand. She giggled at his chivalrous gesture but took the offered hand. They walked out her front door and down the street to his apartment.
Willow was surprised at Angel's offer, but knew he would never ask if he didn't mind. So she smiled and decided to find out what she missed on patrol that night.
"So tell me Angel, who's this Judge guy, and did ya find him?" He smiled at her curiosity.
"Well, he's big and blue. They haven't finished assembling him yet, from what we found out, which is good. Once he's in one piece, you can't touch him or you'll burn to death from the inside out. If he gets enough power, he'll be able to kill without even touching his victims. He's pretty un-killable once he's whole."
"Oh. Well, the bright side," he looked at her, wondering what good she could find in that. "We're looking at an apocalypse. My problem doesn't look *so* bad now." He raised a questioning eyebrow and they continued their walk.
~Part: 15~
"What do you think he will do?" Angel looked intently at the little girl in front of him. She was sitting on his couch, legs tucked underneath her, in her `Curious George' nightshirt that Xander gave her. She was obviously scared, not of him, he knew, but her situation.
"I don't know Willow," he answered honestly. "Spike is difficult to predict. He honestly believes that he loves you, but you hurt him. He will want to hurt you back. I don't see him harming you, physically that is. But I have no clue what he will try."
He frowned at his answer, knowing that was not what she needed to hear. "Sorry Wills, I know that's not very reassuring." She smiled, although it looked pained.
"S'ok, at least you're honest." She tried to stifle a yawn, but was unsuccessful. He rose and ushered her to his bed.
"Sleep," he ordered quietly. "You need your rest." She acquiesced and lay down. He watched her from his chair across the room, only leaving his apartment once he knew she was in a deep sleep.
He originally had no intention of leaving her alone that night. But he decided that he would go looking for his childe. He was determined to at least figure out what his boy might be planning. He locked his door, and left into the alley.
A shadowed figure approached his door as Angel walked away. Once he was out of hearing distance, the knob was turned harshly, the lock unable to withstand the sheer force used.
A haunted smile appeared when the door opened. Creeping silently across the floor, it approached the bed on which the young girl was asleep. Sitting beside her, a cool hand reached out, tracing the delicate lines of her face lightly.
Willow had the distinct feeling that she wasn't alone, and she really doubted Angel was the one caressing her face. She opened one eye, afraid of whom it might be. She immediately pulled away when she met a pair of dark brown eyes.
Drusilla pouted when her niece left her side. The girl was huddled in the farthest corner of the bed, shaking slightly, the intoxicating scent of fear rolling off her.
"Shhh, lovey. I don't want to hurt you," she said in a comforting voice.
"H-how did-d you get in here-e?" she stuttered. "You n-need an i- invitation."
The vampiress clucked her tongue, shaking her head. "No deary, wherever my Angel goes, I am welcome." She was saddened by the redhead's continued fear.
"I'm not here to harm you poppet. But poor William, he was so sad when he returned tonight. What happened pet?" Willow could hardly believe she was having a casual conversation in the middle of Angel's apartment with his insane childe, about Spike.
"Well, we kinda had a fight."
"I know lovey, the stars told me everything. He's miserable, you know. My Spike, he longs for you."
"I don't want to hurt him Dru," she whispered, "but I'm not who he thinks I am. I don't wish to cause him pain. But I don't even know him, I don't know either one of you. You all keep talking like I'm family. He knows nothing about me, my life."
"Listen to me deary," answered Drusilla, madness currently not clouding her voice, "My William, he knew you, ages ago. He loved you with all he had. And then you were taken away. The stars, they told me you were back. He simply wants another chance at eternity with his love." Dru smiled at her, shifting to move closer to Willow.
"He's afraid. When he's scared, he is impulsive. He wants you to give him a opportunity to prove his love for you. You say he doesn't know you, then let him get to know you again. You'll never know what you may have if you don't give it a chance. It's fate, love. It's your destiny, what is meant to happen will. Fighting it won't change things, it just makes things harder."
Drusilla leaned closer to her, placing a kiss on her forehead. Smiling gently, she rose from Angel's bed and left the witch to sleep.
She walked out of Angel's apartment, wandering the city slowly. The sun wouldn't be up for a few more hours, so she was in no hurry. The scent of fresh blood caught her nose. She growled low in her throat and followed the trail. It smelled so familiar.
Angel was stumbling down the street, with a slight limp. He searched the town, still unable to find Spike's lair. He made a stop at Willie's, asking around. Unfortunately a few of Spike's boys were lingering around the bar. When he left, he was jumped. If it was two or three vampires, he would have been fine, but there were five. He fought back, with all his strength. He won, obviously, but was worse for wear.
He had a few abrasions on his arms and face. But the more serious of his injuries was the vicious bite mark at the base of his throat. One of the fledglings had managed to take a bite out of him when he was attempting to pry the others off him. He would live, but he had lost quite a bit of blood. He needed to feed. He was trying his best to make his way back to his apartment. Most of his wounds would be healed by the next day, but if he didn't get blood in him soon, he would be in serious trouble.
He tripped over an exposed root of a tree. He decided that maybe he should rest for a minute, knowing it wasn't the smartest thing to do. He leaned against the brick wall of a nearby shop, his head hanging down in exhaustion.
His head shot up when he felt fingers running through his hair. He looked at the woman watching over him. He went to speak, but she placed her fingers against his lips, stopping his oncoming protests.
"Shhh daddy," she cooed, "let princess make it all better."
~Part: 16~
Angel was on the verge of panicking. He was weak, barely had the will to move, and he needed blood. And Drusilla, what was she doing?!
The dark vampiress smiled at her beloved sire. She swept her long hair away from the side of her neck, exposing it to the hungry vampire. She gently held the back of Angel's neck, pulling his mouth to her neck, entreating him to drink from her.
Angel resisted, he hadn't fed off *anyone* in ages, and he was afraid that in his needy condition he might hurt her. She frowned at him and raised her hand to her neck, placing a small cut at the base. Angel's demon came forward at the scent of his childe's blood. The soul was no longer in control as he snarled and bit down harshly on her neck.
Dru sighed at the feeling of her sire against her. It had been so long since she had seen him let alone held him. She absently stroked his head, her fingers running through his hair lightly as he drank. She was becoming increasingly weak, but knew that her Angel would know when to stop. He would never hurt her.
Angel pulled away, shaking slightly. Her blood was already helping. He could feel his wounds healing, slowly but surely. He was still in a daze, his bloodlust too strong to ignore, his demon at the fore.
Dru smiled as she looked down at him. He slid down the brick wall, coming to rest on the concrete below him. The streets were deserted at this time of night, the darkened alley they were in providing cover from any prying eyes.
Drusilla moved to straddle Angel, not leaning any weight on his weakened form. She leaned closer, brushing her lips against his. His eyes shot open and he stared at her in shock, the soul was telling him that this was wrong, that he loved Buffy. But every other fiber of his being knew this was right, how things should be. She was his childe, his obsession, his blood, simply his. He couldn't turn her away, not again.
She kissed him again, more insistently this time. He didn't object, instead opening his lips, allowing her to deepen the kiss. She pressed against him, needing more contact. He growled softly at the feel of her moving on top of him. His hands moved of their own accord to grip her hips, pulling her possessively to him. She smiled against his mouth as she let her hands leave his neck and travel down his chest, finally coming to rest at his belt buckle. She needed him more than ever. She didn't particularly care if they were in some dirty alley, she was a vampire, she wasn't shy or timid. She unzipped him swiftly and moaned when she felt him enter her. She had missed this, missed the feel of her Angel.
His brain had stopped functioning by now. Dru was on top of him, riding him with abandon, and she was all he could think of. He met her thrusts with ferocity of his own. His fingers gripping her hips so tightly he knew there would be bruising. But she didn't care, in fact the pain only made it better. Their movements became faster as each neared their much needed release. When he heard Dru wail, felt her tighten around him, he couldn't hold out any more and came with a strangled shout.
Dru lay on top of him, panting with unneeded breath. She glanced back at Angel, who finally looked content. He was, in fact, blissfully happy. He felt an unfamiliar pain pass through him. He opened his eyes, his pained gaze falling on his insane childe.
She grinned happily as she saw a flash of gold in his eyes. She climbed off of him, straightening her dress as she stood. Angel began to whimper, as he curled into a ball, the pain too much for him until he passed out.
Drusilla knelt down, buttoned his pants and straightened his rumpled clothing as he lay there unconscious. Part of her was worried for him, knowing he was feeling an intense amount of pain. But it was necessary. Things would better for it.
When she stood again, she studied his still form. She grinned madly when she saw the beginning of movement coming from his hand. Angel was still very much out of it when he was finally able to stand. He was looking down, getting his bearings. He saw a person out of the corner of his eye, a slow smile spreading across his face as memories assaulted him. He straightened and turned to face Drusilla. She squealed and jumped in his arms.
"Is it true?!" she whispered excitedly. "Are you back Daddy?!" Angelus chuckled darkly.
"Oh yeah baby, I'm back."
~Part: 17~
Surprisingly, Willow had little trouble falling back to sleep after her talk with Drusilla. She had to admit that the woman frightened her, on the most basic, natural level. She was a predator, and Willow was prey. But Drusilla always went out of her way to assure the girl that she did not wish to harm her. This entire situation was becoming all too confusing.
The only person she truly trusted with her fragile emotions right now was Angel. Who was conspicuously absent right now. The exhausted redhead tentatively opened her eyes, attempting to adjust them the darkness that shrouded the empty apartment. She looked for any sign of her vampire roommate and found none.
She found it odd. Angel had to be the single most overprotective person in the world. He had been so worried for her the night before. She had heard him leave quietly a few hours before dawn. Since then there had been no sign of him.
Something must have happened to him. That was the only explanation she could come up with. He must have went out last night and gotten injured. He was only trying to help her, and because of her, he could possibly be laying somewhere, wounded and bleeding, and it was all her fault. She felt an immense sense if guilt at that thought. He was simply trying to protect her and he got hurt.
What if he had a run-in with Spike? That could explain everything. The blonde had every reason to want to hurt him, top that off with the fact that he was furious with her, and thing weren't looking too good.
It had to be nearing noon by now. Thankfully it was the weekend so she didn't have to invent some lame excuse about her whereabouts. She got out his bed, flipping on a table lamp to illuminate the room. Now that she could see, she slipped on her shoes and began nervously pacing the room.
On what could have possibly been her tenth lap, she heard the front door opening. She froze. If it was Buffy, she had no doubt that she would be furious that she stayed at Angel's the night before. Never mind that the brunette was simply trying to help. The slayer would be extremely jealous of the time she spent alone with him.
Willow had no time to hide before the door swung open. She visibly relaxed when she saw Angel stumble clumsily through the door. She noticed his torn clothing and the dried blood covering his face, neck, and hands. She rushed to him, allowing him to lean on her for support.
"God, what happened to you?! Are you hurt? How did you get back here? It's the middle of the day! Are you alright, do you need blood?!" she asked urgently, never once taking a breath of vital air.
He laughed, but it was obviously pained. "I'm okay Will. I promise," he added at her disbelieving look. "It's just some scrapes, I'm already healing. I'll be fine."
"What happened?" she asked again, determined to get an answer out of him.
"I left to try and get some information. I was trying to find out where Spike was hiding out. Needless to say, it didn't work out like I planned," he replied with a wry grin.
"Did he do this to you?" she murmured. She needed to know if he was willing to hurt her friends like this.
"No," he said with a shake of his head. "I never even saw him last night. It was a group of fledglings. This is truly embarrassing for my reputation. The `mighty Angelus' taken down by a bunch of weaklings," he sneered.
"You need to feed, don't you? I'll warm some blood for you," she insisted. He placed a gentle hand on her shoulder to halt her retreat.
"Not necessary. I made it to Willie's before the sun rose," he informed her, the unrehearsed lies flowing without hesitation. "I stayed there until I was better. I used the tunnels to get back here as soon as I felt strong enough," he added, answering her earlier questions.
"Sit," she ordered him, pulling him into his chair. He watched her with amused eyes as she ran into his bathroom. She returned to his side a moment later with a dampened washcloth and a bowl of water.
"Take off your shirt," she mumbled. He did as he was told and her eyes widened as she took in the scratch marks on his chest, red and angry. But she didn't question him about it. She began to clean him off, starting with his face. He had the occasional streak of blood on his cheeks. They sat in silence as she washed him. He relaxed under her touch, his eyes closing as her hands moved over his neck and down his chest. She swore she heard him purr. He just seemed.off.
She took his left hand in hers, the cloth brushing across his fingers before dipping back into the bowl. She glanced at him, surprised to see him so relaxed.
"Are you sure you're okay Angel?" she whispered, leery to break the silence. His eyes opened slowly, a slow, not entirely reassuring smile spread across his face. He took her hand, stopping it from its further movement, and held it in his own.
"I'm fine Willow. Why?" he murmured. She looked at him curiously.
"You just seem.different. I don't know. More.more relaxed, at ease. Less on edge, intense. Not your usual broody self, not that I mind," she was quick to add, afraid she would offend him.
He chuckled and let her hand go. She stood quickly, feeling not totally comfortable, and went to dump the water and throw the washcloth in the laundry. He rose slowly, taking his time moving to his small closet before examining the contents, finally deciding on a rather bold looking red satin shirt. He shrugged it on, leaving it unbuttoned as he faced her again.
"I'm good, Will. Feeling like myself finally." She smiled at him and moved to grab her bag from the night before.
"Well, with it being the middle of the day and all, I think I'll head back home for a little while. Take a shower, or something. I'll leave you to rest, you need to lie down."
He grinned at her concern. No need to tell her that he had spent the rest of that evening and most of the morning in bed.
"Sure Willow, be safe. I'll stop by, okay?" She gave him a half- smile and walked to him, pulling him into a friendly hug. He held onto her a bit longer than she felt was necessary, but ignored it.
"Yup, that sounds good. My hero," she added sarcastically, he rolled his eyes and escorted her out the front door.
Once the door was closed, and her scent was undetectable, Angelus lounged on his bed. He was going to rest up today, he had a big night tonight. He had to reintroduce himself to his family.
~~~*~~~
Spike could barely restrain his anger when Drusilla walked into their lair reeking of the soulful sire. That bastard was keeping Willow from him, telling her lies about him to make her hate him, he just knew it. And now Dru was spending more and more time following him.
He growled at the smile that graced her lips when she looked at him. It was one of those `I know something you don't know' smiles, and right now he hated her for it.
"What the hell are you so bleedin' happy about?" he snarled.
"He's back," she replied vaguely as she reached for her precious doll.
"Whose back?" he asked, annoyed that she was going to make him guess what she was babbling about.
"My Angel." she answered dreamily. He stared at her, trying to discern whether she was speaking the truth, or rambling on. The clarity in her eyes stayed him.
"Angelus is back?" he whispered, hope filling him. Maybe things could truly be as they were before, the whole family together.
"Yes ducks, he's back. Playing with your pet as we speak."
"What?!" he growled. She whimpered having no idea why he was so upset.
"Relax boy," announced a cocky voice from the doorway. "I don't want to steal your girl." Spike visibly relaxed at Angelus' declaration. "But I will make sure you get her back where she belongs," he added with a sly smirk.
~Part: 18~
Buffy was nervous, and she hated that feeling. Tonight was the big showdown with this Judge guy and she had yet to see Angel, or Willow for that matter, and she needed his help. The more force they had, the better chance they stood.
Xander and Cordelia already made a stop at the local armory, picking up a fierce looking rocket launcher to take big blue out with. Buffy sighed when Xander and Cordelia left the library, supposedly to get some snacks, but she knew they were just leaving so they could make out in some broom closet. Their secret sessions were not so secret.
Xander was only focused on the feel of Cordelia against him, but the pretty brunette froze at a muffled noise.
"Xander," she whispered, pushing him away. He groaned and she smiled before becoming serious again. "Did you hear that?"
"Hear what?" he replied, truly confused. "There's nothing wrong," he assured her. Just then the small light in the closet shut off, leaving them completely in darkness. Thinking it was just a burned out bulb, they stumbled out of the small room, and into the equally darkened hallway.
"Um, Xan, what's up with the power?" she asked hesitantly.
"I don't know Cordy, but."
"What's going on?" asked a low voice, coming from across the hall. The two teens both looked up startled. Xander tensed as Cordy let out a relieved sigh.
"Really Angel," she started, "a bell, ever think of wearing one?" He smirked, unseen to the duo.
"I don't know, kinda hinders the whole `sneaking up on people' thing I have going on," the vampire added. "But what's up with the lights?"
"That's what we were wondering," interjected Xander. Angel shook his head, brushing away the thought.
"Well, never mind that. I have something to tell you guys. Xander, go get the others, Cordelia, come here," he ordered softly. Xander looked at him oddly but turned to do as he was told. Cordelia slowly made her way to Angel, wondering what he possibly wanted to show her.
"What is it Angel?" she inquired. He smiled.
"It's amazing." he whispered. Xander felt his uneasiness grow. He turned to glance at Cordy and Angel before pushing the library doors open. He saw Cordelia look away for a minute and saw Angel in game face, approaching her while she was unaware.
"Buffy!!!" he screamed, trying to get the slayer's attention as he ran to his girlfriend's aide.
The slayer bounded through the door, quickly followed by her flustered watcher, each unprepared for the sight in front of them. Angel had Cordy by the throat, her back to his chest. Her hand was clutching his, trying to make him release his punishing grip.
"Angel?" Buffy asked hesitantly. "Wha-?" She began to ask, before Ms. Calendar stopped her.
"You're not Angel anymore, are you?" she asked quietly, gently pushing past Giles, cross in hand, to get closer to the small group. He simply grinned around his fangs.
"I am Angel, at last," he answered.
"I don't understand?" replied Buffy, still unable to comprehend the change in her boyfriend.
"Angelus." Giles' whispered declaration was easily heard in the eerie quiet. Angelus laughed.
"Well, well, the watcher finally catches on. Knew you were a smart one."
"How?" asked Buffy, barely containing a heartbreaking sob.
"A true moment's happiness," he announced. "You had nothing to do with it Buff. Soul-boy was too busy screwing Drusilla to think about you."
Buffy nearly collapsed at that revelation, but tried to keep her cool.
"Let her go," she demanded.
"But she's so cute, and helpless. Although," he added with a frown, "she does reek of the moron. Disgusting that is," he sneered. Xander took the moment to discretely take Jenny's cross in his hand, sneaking up on Angelus. With a sudden movement, he thrust the holy object in his face, causing the vampire to recoil, shoving Cordelia away harshly.
Buffy caught the girl before she could hit the ground. Angelus merely straightened, acting as if nothing happened.
"Be seeing you all soon," he added before flying out of the school's double doors.
~~~*~~~
Willow was waiting at home. Angel had told her that he was going to come by tonight so she had decided to stay put. She checked her watch again. It had been nearly three hours since the sun went down and still nothing from Angel.
Just when she was about to resign herself to another night of boring television, she heard a light knock at her door. She scooted off the sofa and looked through the peephole on the front door. Smiling when she saw it was only everyone's favorite souled vampire; she turned the lock and opened the door for her friend.
Her smile faltered when she saw the look of worry on his face.
"What is it Angel? What happened?" she asked urgently.
"We have to go, it's Buffy. They went to fight the Judge tonight. There's trouble, we have to go!" he replied. She grabbed her coat, about to leave with him when she heard the phone ring. She hesitated, unsure if she answer it, or let the answering machine get it. Angel saw her stop.
"We have to go Willow," he replied. "It's probably them, we'll be there before you know it." She nodded and walked outside. Closing the door, she never heard the warning from Xander. Once the usual message on the answering machine finished, and there was the standard beep, her best friend's voice filtered through her house.
"Wills?! Are you there? Pick up please?! You can't trust Angel, ok? He showed up at the school tonight. Will, he tried to kill Cordy, he's lost his soul. You have to believe me. Buffy's in shock right now. I'm not quite sure how it happened, but listen to me, you *have* to stay far away from him. Call me when you get this!"
~~~*~~~
Willow followed Angel, only a couple feet behind him. They walked down her driveway. She was surprised when he walked to a parked car along the sidewalk in front of the house. It was relatively old looking, with blacked out windows. She frowned when he motioned for her to get inside.
"It belongs to a friend of mine," he added, "I told him our situation was extremely important, so he let me borrow his car." She nodded, satisfied at his response. She ducked her head opening the passenger's door, never seeing the smug grin twitching at his lips.
She slid into the passenger's seat, eyes down, and shut the door, leaving the vehicle in virtual darkness. She started when she saw a light flare from behind her in the backseat. From the glow that the lighter gave off, she made out a pale face, almost white hair, and sharp cheekbones. Her eyes grew wide, "S-Spike." she stuttered. The blonde grinned and leaned back, fading into the darkness.
Willow turned swiftly, attempting to open her door and get out as soon as possible. A firm hand stopped her. She looked toward Angel, her eyes pleading. He smirked at her.
"You can't leave now kitten. Party's just getting started."
~Part: 19~
Willow was shocked into inaction. She had noticed once the run- down car started moving that there was no handle on the inside of her door. So her chance for an escape was pretty much gone.
What disturbed her even more so was how strange Angel was acting. Well, strange wasn't the right word for it. He basically handed her over to the one man that he swore to protect her from. Angel, more so than anyone, had objected fervently to her even speaking to Spike, but now he basically kidnaps her, and gives her to the blonde.
She dared to glance at the brunette, who had his eyes glued to the road ahead. He caught her movement out of the corner of his eye and smiled.
"Always thinking, aren't you Willow?" she stiffened when he spoke. "What's got you so rattled little one?" he asked in a mocking tone.
"What happened to you?" she muttered. He laughed deeply.
"That's what has got your mind working overtime? Hmmm, well, how should I put this? Let's just say, I finally got rid off all that pesky baggage." She heard a derisive snort come from the backseat.
"Your soul?" she questioned, thoroughly confused.
"Right in one Wills," he smirked.
"But, how? I mean it's not like you can just wake up and *not* have a soul."
"So curious. We'll talk all about it when we get home."
"Umm, home? Where's home, cause I just left my house. Can I go back?" she asked hopefully.
"Sorry Wills. You'll be staying with us from now on, get used to it," his voice brooked no argument. She remained quiet for the rest of the ride.
They pulled up to an older warehouse on the outskirts of town. She knew that Buffy had no clue where this place was, so any thought that the slayer may come to her rescue quickly vanished.
Angelus shut off the engine and walked around the front of the car to reach her side, gallantly swinging open her door, with a chivalrous bow. At the same time Spike was climbing out of the back.
Willow got out slowly, taking the arm that Angelus had offered. The elder vampire pulled her to his side, causing Spike to growl in warning at their close proximity. Angelus merely chuckled and escorted a frightened redhead and irritated blonde into the building.
"Tomorrow," he announced as they passed the threshold, "we find you better digs Spikey. No more factories and warehouses boy, something with style. Gotta have the best for our girls, eh?" Spike nodded absently, never taking his eyes off the shaking girl in front of him.
The sound of excited clapping echoed through the home when the trio entered.
"Daddy, you've brought my lovely niece home!" Dru exclaimed, bouncing on her heels. Spike rolled his eyes at her exuberance. This was supposed to be *his* girl, and yet he hadn't even had the chance to speak with her.
Drusilla ran to them, wanting to hug the little girl, but stopped at Angelus' forbidding frown.
"Now, now Dru. Willow needs some time to adjust. Don't want to scare the poor girl now do we?" he added sarcastically. "Now little one," Spike snarled at the endearment, "let's get you settled."
"S-settled? Umm, I don't have anything with me, no clothes, or food. I don't even know why I'm here."
"No worries Willow. Everything has been taken care of." He led her through a maze of halls, finally stopping at one plain looking door. Swinging it open, and pulling her through, Angelus let her get used to her new room.
Willow looked around. There was a large bed in the middle of the room, covered in red and purple silk. The furniture was relatively sparse, only a traditional wooden dresser and an overstuffed chair in one corner. Next to it was a small bookcase, which she noted held some of her favorite stories. There were no windows, but plenty of light from the overhead as well as the numerous candles lying around.
Angelus led her to the bed, sitting her on the edge before taking a seat in the chair.
"Time to discuss the rules Will." Her brows knitted together in confusion. "You'll be staying with us from now on. Until we move, this is your room. You're not to leave without permission *and* an escort. You see, you've been giving my boy here a lot of trouble lately. So you will take this time to listen to him, and when you finally understand your place, we'll negotiate the rules, maybe give you a little more freedom. There will be no crying to the slayer, sneaking messages to your little friends, or any of that. You will be punished if you disobey. Is that clear?"
She nodded, trying to take in all that he said. He smiled widely, his harsh demeanor fading away.
"Good girl. Now, I'm busy, old friends to torture, and all. Sweet dreams." He rose, and left the room, slamming the door shut. She shivered as she sat in the dark. Her surroundings were comfortable, but the whole idea of being kept prisoner sort of made a person feel uneasy.
She sighed and began to rifle through the drawers of her dresser. Finding an oversized t-shirt, she changed quietly and climbed into bed, pulling the covers up to her chin in a vain attempt to feel safe.
Twenty minutes later, she finally forced herself to relax. Her eyes became heavy, the lack of sleep and the recent stress catching up with her. When she was half-asleep, she heard the door to her room open slowly. Her sleep-addled mind barely paying the noise any attention.
She did, however, wake when she felt the bed shift next to her. She hesitantly looked over her shoulder, trying to see who had joined her. She froze when her eyes locked with stormy blue ones.
"S-spike? W-what are you doing here?" she stuttered. He smirked at her obvious discomfort.
"Angelus forget to mention that this is my room? Hmmm, well, you know now. Get some sleep luv. We've got a big day ahead of us." She nodded tentatively and turned her back to him.
He chuckled at her attempt to ignore him. He reached out, his arms wrapping around her waist and pulling her to him so her back rested on his bare chest. He inhaled deeply and a small smile crept onto his face.
Before falling into a dreamless sleep, he whispered in her ear,
"It's been so long, my love."
~Part: 20~
Willow woke, not having any idea as to the time. The lack of sunlight throughout her room gave her no hints. She rolled onto her back softly, trying not to jostle the bed and wake her vampire companion.
She slid out of the bed, looking over her shoulder to make sure he was still asleep, which is considerably hard to do when he didn't breathe. She knew she wasn't exactly dressed appropriately for a night on the town, so she quietly slid on her jeans, leaving on the baggy black shirt, which she had figured out belonged to Spike.
Sneaking out of his room, she shut the door, cringing when it creaked. Luckily she didn't hear any movement from the inside, so she let loose a relieved grin and continued on her way through the maze of halls in the warehouse.
She looked ahead, letting out a ragged breath when she saw a door in the distance, rimmed in sunlight. She knew this was the way out, and all she had to do was make it there without waking any sleeping vamps.
The pace of her steps quickened as she neared the elusive doorway. Her hand flew to the doorknob, preparing to turn in swiftly before a hand clamped down on her delicate wrist. Instinct caused her to fight the hold, but a vicious growl held her at bay. She reluctantly raised her head to take a look at her captor, her breath catching as she stared into Angelus' golden eyes.
He tugged on her arm harshly and she forced herself to follow him down the corridors so her arm was not pulled out of its socket. He reached Spike's door and threw it open, making as much noise as possible.
Spike woke with a start at the sound of his angry sire. He barely looked in time to catch Willow who was pushed brutally in his direction, his arms the only thing keeping her from hitting the ground. He gave Angelus a questioning look.
"You better pay closer attention to your girl, Spikey. I caught her trying to escape into the daylight. Can't have her running out after all the trouble we went through just for her," he growled.
Spike nodded and released the nervous girl. She stumbled slightly but caught herself. Before she knew it she was eye-to-eye with the elder vampire. He made no effort to change to his human guise.
"Try it again little one," warned Angelus, "and I'll make sure you won't be able to walk for a week. I warned you not to defy me. Spike, here, may be so in love with you that he won't punish you properly, and Dru may not want to see you hurt, but *I* have no problem keeping you in line. Do *not* test me again. I am not a patient man."
She nodded warily. He gave her a cursory nod, glanced at Spike, making sure the blonde knew he was not pleased, and stomped out the door, slamming it loudly.
Spike sighed tiredly, and collapsed into the only chair in the room. Shaking his head, he looked toward the quaking child.
"Stupid move, pet." She dropped onto the bed.
"Did.did he really mean all that?" she asked after a minute.
"What? That bit about punishing you?" She nodded and he continued. "Every word, luv. He's not one to piss off. He doesn't want you dead, well, not permanently. But he is very willing to hurt you to make you obey. Fighting won't help you, he gets off on it." She swallowed nervously. "He's my sire, I can't stop him."
"Oh." She shifted uncomfortably. He rose from his seat and she noticed for the first time that he was completely nude. She blushed and stared at the floor. He gave a light chuckle and pulled on a pair of black denim jeans to make her more comfortable. He walked to her, slowly as to not startle her. He offered his hand and she hesitantly took it. He led her through a side door she hadn't noticed and into a bathroom.
"Take a shower, Red. Towels are on your right," he added pointing to the shelf off to the side. "When you're done, get dressed and we'll greet the family. Angelus will most likely be in a better mood, then we'll discuss what is expected of you, and why you're here." She silently agreed and waited for him to leave, shutting the door behind him, before she undressed and jumped into the warm and soothing shower.
When she finally exited the bathroom, fully dressed in a pair of black slacks and a long-sleeved emerald green wrap shirt that Spike had laid out for her. She saw the blonde waiting patiently for her, skimming over one of the many books that cluttered those shelves. She cleared her throat, alerting him to her presence.
"You look smashing, pet." She smiled self-consciously and walked behind him as he led her into the main meeting room.
Angelus was lounging casually in a high-back chair in the center of the room. His leather-clad legs were crossed at the ankle and resting on the large table in front of him. His midnight blue velvet shirt only half buttoned as he gazed upon the newest arrivals.
Drusilla was sitting next to her sire, leaning to one side so she could be as close to him as possible. Angelus paid her, as well as everyone else, little attention as he concentrated on the small redhead ahead of him. Spike noticed his intense stare and tensed but said nothing.
"Sit," he ordered, quietly but firmly, gesturing to the two chairs facing him. Willow took the seat across from Drusilla, and Spike sat across from his sire.
"Willow," Angelus purred, "so glad you could join us. I take it there will be no more arbitrary attempts at escape, correct?" he asked lazily.
"Y-Yes." she responded once she found her voice. He smirked but bowed his head in acknowledgement.
"Now it's time to clear up some issues. You probably want to know why you're here." He continued without even giving her a chance to respond. "You're here because, whether you refuse to accept it or not, you are family. Not in the blood sense, not yet anyway, but you will be. Consider this time as a period to adjust to your new life. You will listen to Spike, because he was and will be your sire. You do as I say, no exceptions, even Spike has to answer to me."
He paused, trying to think of how to put his next sentence.
"Drusilla has given you back your memories. I advise you to take this time to think them over. Know that they did happen, that was your past, and they play an integral part of your future. You will be in Spike's care, but if you require discipline, I, depending on the offense, will be the one punishing you. I may defer to Spike on occasion."
His eyes bored into hers, making sure she understood her place.
"The sooner you accept your past and acknowledge what my childe truly feels for you, the sooner you can be treated as an equal. As of now, you are relegated to Spike's room. You'll do as he says, and will listen to what he has to say without objection. Do you understand?"
"Um, yeah." He grinned and turned to glance at Spike.
"Take her away. I'll call for you in the evening." Spike nodded and pulled her up, leading her to their room.
"What am I supposed to do here all day?" she asked after a moment's silence.
"This isn't a bloody prison, luv. No matter what my sire has told you. I do not wish to make your stay here unpleasant. You determine your treatment. If you behave, then you will be treated like the princess that you are. Disobey, and the tongue-lashing you received earlier will pale in comparison." She nodded once.
"As for our daily activities, it's quite simple. You have made it a point to shy away from any conversation that involves the two of us, our feelings for each other. You may want to deny it, but you know as well as I do that there is something between us."
"But Spike," she began to argue, "we've been over this. I don't know you. I have these memories, but I don't know the two people involved in them. How can I possibly have feelings for you if we haven't even spent a significant amount of time together?" she added, hoping she could convince him to let her go.
"That's why we're here, ducks. You keep repeating yourself, that you can't love me if you don't know me. Well, here we are. I'll be with you 24/7 until I convince you that I'm telling you the truth, until you realize you do love me. Then we can move on to more pleasant activities."
Her shoulders sagged, it seemed that until she declared her love for him, she wasn't going anywhere.
"Can I.can I just rest a bit, Spike? I'm so tired." His lips turned in a half-smile.
"Sure thing, luv. We have plenty of time to talk." He led her worn- out form to the bed, laying her down on top of the covers. He let her move to the middle of the mattress, he remained sitting at the end of the bed. He watched her drift to sleep, smiling absently at the sight.
She had been asleep for five minutes before he decided he should probably pay Angelus a visit. He moved closer to her sprawled out body. He placed the softest of kisses on her lips, smiling when he heard her sigh contentedly in her sleep, then quietly left the room.