Notes: AU 1800s
Thanks: To Em who helped me out *so* much with this fic. Thank you so much, sweetie!
~*~
~Part: 1~
“I don’t understand why you insist on waking me so early. There’s absolutely nothing to do. Such tedious days,” Buffy complained as she leaned her head against her hand and looked out the window. With laughing eyes she watched as the doorman’s hat was blown away by the strong London wind. “Well, I suppose it does have some perks,” she amended.
Willow rolled her eyes and looked up from her novel, “Why don’t you read something? It does pass the time.”
“Read something? Like you? Oh dear, Willow, please, if Giles heard that you were reading something of that sort,” she nodded towards the book that the redhead was holding, “He’d disapprove.”
“He’s the one that gave this to me. What, did you think I stole it from his library?” Willow asked, amused.
Her best friend pouted, “No,” she sighed, “Well, you know how you are. Always so adamant.”
“You say that like it’s a negative trait.”
“It is. Willow, you’ve scared off all your previous suitors with your comments and opinions. You’re already one and twenty, your youth will not last forever.”
“If my future husband cannot accept my views then he is not the one I am meant to be with. I am content with waiting,” She lifted the novel she was holding, “I have my books after all.”
A small smile slipped onto Buffy’s face, “I can never win in an argument with you. I suppose I shouldn’t even try anymore.”
“Ahh, so you’ve finally learned.”
“I just worry about you. I don’t want you to die an old maid.”
“I won’t and even if I should, I wouldn’t be displeased. It’s not as if I don’t have the money.”
“Your parents were thoughtful to have left so much to you before they left for the Americas.”
“That was quite the scandal, wasn’t it?” Willow muttered as she sighed, “It wasn’t thoughtful, Buffy, it was a goodbye.”
“They are to come back, aren’t they?”
The redhead shook her head negatively, “I doubt it. I was never close to them, they were always abroad on an adventure of some sort. I was raised by my governess and Giles.”
“Jenny is such a dear though she does have the most unconventional ways of teaching and care. I suppose it was for the best though. Giles does teach the most interesting things at times. And his collection is quite extraordinary.”
Willow raised an eyebrow, “Did you just compliment Giles on his library? And I thought you didn’t favor librarians.”
Buffy grinned, “You speak as if I don’t read at all. I just don’t read the pieces that you love so much. They leave me with nightmares.”
She held up her book, “Creatures such as vampires and werewolves do not exist in real life. Only in novels and the imagination.”
The blonde looked away at this comment and sighed, “I suppose so.” She shook her head, wanting to get rid of the images of her nightmares out of her mind, “Do you think Mr. Finn will call?”
“You seem to be getting along with him quite well.” Willow teased as she let out a tinkling laugh, “I suppose he will, but not here. He does not know you spend your days here, does he?”
“He does. He was asking about the topic the other day and I mentioned it.”
“So then perhaps he will.”
Buffy nodded as she looked out the window again, staring past the streets and buildings of London, as if looking somewhere else altogether.
Willow caught the look in Buffy’s eyes and her brow furrowed. Just what was she thinking about? “Is something troubling you?”
Buffy let out a small laugh, “Simply trifles. Nothing of importance.”
“You’re quite sure?”
She bit her lip unsurely and rose to her feet, walking closer and sitting down next to Willow. Buffy grabbed her best friend’s hands and looked into her eyes. At that moment, Willow finally saw the fear that lay in them. “What’s the matter?”
“I’ve been,” she paused, not knowing how to continue without sounding insane. “I’ve been having nightmares. They seem so real, almost as if I’ve lived them or will be living them, soon enough. They’re scaring me, Willow. Except, in them, I’m never scared, I-I,” she let out a depreciating scoff, “I fight them and I win.”
“Them?” Willow leaned in closer, “What do these nightmares consist of?”
Buffy stared at the closed book on the table, “Vampires.”
“What?” Willow gasped.
“I know, I know,” she shook her head, a frustrated look on her face, “Hard to believe, quite impossible actually, but it’s true. I fight them, Willow and somehow I always win. It’s almost as if I have,” she paused, looking for the right word, “powers or something of the sort. Quite shocking, really. There’s this one recurring dream though. I fight this tall fellow, I can never see his face but I know he’s one of them. He’s strong and clever.” Her voice dropped to a whisper, “I die by his hands every time. I feel the life drain out of my body.”
Willow shook her head, her mouth open, “Vampires?”
Buffy sighed, “Are you still on that? Did you catch anything after it?”
She closed her eyes and opened them again, looking into Buffy’s eyes and seeing the truth shine through her eyes, she nodded, “You’re telling the truth aren’t you? You actually believe all this.”
“I don’t want to,” she said sadly, “But I feel it, Willow. This isn’t just a normal nightmare. Every night, I die. It’s getting quite tiresome.”
Willow smiled at the small joke and looked down at her hands.
“Do you believe me?”
She was silent for a few moments before looking up, holding Buffy’s gaze, “Yes, I do.”
Buffy smiled, relieved, “I knew you would. I can always count on you, Willow.” She reached over and gave her a tight hug, “I am so blessed to have a friend like you.”
Willow returned her hug before pulling away, “You say you felt the life draining out of you? That does sound vampiric.”
“That’s what frightens me the most. It’s not the fight, it’s the draining of life. I’m supposing it’s my blood.”
“Well, death is a frightening thing.”
“It’s not a matter of death. It’s the taking of my blood that scares me the most in these dreams. I fight these demons, I kill them and I’m never scared.”
“So, you’re a vampire killer?”
Buffy nodded and whispered the one word that the vampire from her dreams when he killed her, “Slayer.”
~*~
“They’re holding a ball for us? The Jerseys?”
Angelus grinned at the look in his Spike’s eyes, “Yes, they are.”
“Why?” Spike raised an eyebrow, “And how do you know them anyhow?”
“To introduce us into London society, of course, my boy. Wipe that look off your face, we’ll find you something pretty to eat, I promise.” Angelus smiled, “Mr. Jersey heard about the great Angelus and Spike and so he demanded that there must be a ball held in our honor.”
Spike smirked, “So, he’s a vampire.” He rolled his eyes, “If I want something to eat, I can go out and get something myself. I don’t need to go to a ball to get it.”
“Do you know the society that we’re in today is extremely harsh? All the squabbles and rumors going around. I do not wish to draw attention to us. Therefore, if we don’t want to start anything, we most be introduced into the public properly.”
“You don’t want attention and yet you want attend a ball being held in our honor in which half of London is invited? Smart thinking, Angelus.”
“Do not mock me, boy,” Angelus growled, “I have also heard some things. I doubt they’re true but still, there is talk.”
“From whom?”
“Underground demons.”
“What have they been saying?” Spike asked curiously, leaning his head back against the lavishly decorated couch.
Angelus raised an eyebrow, “Will you at least try to be amiable?”
“Yes, yes,” he promised impatiently, “Out with it.”
“There’s a new Slayer in this town.”
“In London?”
Angelus nodded, “She was just called so it’s likely that she doesn’t even know of her destiny.”
“Well,” Spike grinned, “That’s interesting.”
“Yes, quite. Can you imagine if we got our hands on her before she even knew she was a Slayer?”
“You’d create a very powerful vampire.”
“Indeed.”
“So, was this your plan all along?”
Angelus smiled in return and took a sip out of the glass, savoring the taste of blood mixed with red wine. He looked around the room, silently praising himself for acquiring the home that was now theirs. It had been quite simple to acquire. All he had to do was send Drusilla to seduce a few rich men and everything that he wanted was his. The poor chaps didn’t even realize their money was gone until it was too late. Of course, all this was done elsewhere, a few towns from London. It would be foolhardy to commit the crimes there in town. News did travel fast but with the type of gossip the residents in London spoke of, it was long forgotten soon enough. He snapped himself out of his thoughts, “So, are you ready for your big introduction?”
“Who am I this time?”
“Mr. William Ramsey.”
“And you?”
“Mr. Angelus Ramsey.”
“Are we to be brothers then?”
“Don’t flatter yourself.”
“Is Drusilla being introduced?”
“Yes, there is no other choice. She wouldn’t be pleased if she found out there was a party being held and she wasn’t allowed to come.”
“She’d listen to you.”
“She would but I’m in no mood to listen to her whining.”
“Are you sure it’s wise to let her come?”
“She’ll behave herself,” Angelus let out a feral smile, “If she doesn’t then I’ll punish her.”
“Don’t tell her that or else she’ll misbehave on purpose.” Spike got to his feet and started to walk out of the room, “I’m feeling a bit peckish.”
“Always a late eater, go on then.”
~*~
As Willow let everything that Buffy said sink in, Jenny walked in the door with the post. The redhead quickly shook her questioning thoughts away and smiled at the governess she thought of as a mother, “Oh, do we have mail?”
“An invitation,” Jenny smiled at her, “To a ball, held by the Jerseys to honor the Mr. Ramseys.”
Buffy raised an eyebrow, “The Ramseys?”
“Yes, “A Mr. Angelus Ramsey and a Mr. William Ramsey. They also have a sister, a Miss Drusilla Ramsey. Jenny sat down on the couch, “Mrs. Lanet saw them the other night walking in the park. She said they were quite fine. She said the lady held true beauty, excessively pretty and both gentlemen were extremely handsome.”
Willow shrugged, “So they are gentle on the eye? They’re plenty of men and women in London who fit that category.” She put the invitation on the table, “I don’t see how that’s of any special importance.”
Jenny smiled at her before putting her hand on her arm, “Dearest, you should go.”
“What? To advertise myself as available?” She shook her head, “I suppose they’ve invited half of London; it will be much too crowded.”
“They’ve just bought the Pariner estate.”
Buffy gaped at her, “The Pariner estate? They’ve bought the Pariner estate? Wealthy and handsome, quite a combination.”
Willow rolled her eyes, “Alright, it won’t be crowded but surely there will be far too many people there for a proper introduction to be made. There is no point in going.”
“Then no harm will be done. You may not meet them but at least you can dance. You do love a good dance, do you not?”
Buffy nodded, “Willow, we must go. It is to be expected.”
“Expected?”
“That probably isn’t the method to convince you.” Buffy pouted, “Please, Willow? Just come with me.”
Willow leaned her head back and sighed, “I suppose I have no other choice.”
Buffy let out a squeal of delight and dragged the redhead out of the chair, “Come, we must pick out a dress immediately.”
Willow shook her head, “The ball is in two weeks, Buffy, there is no need for a wardrobe selection now.”
“Oh, just come with me!”
~Part: 2~
Willow’s attention was drawn to the door when there was a knock. She
cleared her throat, “Yes?”
The door was opened and a short lady of about 30 walked in with a big
grin on her face, “Ms. Willow? Ms. Jenny has asked me to come up to do
your hair.”
Willow looked in the mirror and caught the woman’s gaze, “Oh, hello,
Marie.” She relaxed as Marie began to comb her hair gently, “Something
simple will do just fine.” Marie nodded with a small smile and Willow looked
in the mirror at herself and thought over the day’s occurrences. Buffy’s
reminder of being more feminine and less forward was in the forefront of
her mind. It was becoming a daily reminder these days and Willow was beginning
to wonder if her best friend was actually right about the entire thing.
She knew that plenty of girls younger then herself had already been married off while she still remained without a husband. Though there had been plenty of suitors, they were met with cold shoulders and no reciprocation. Except one, she sighed as she remembered her relationship with Mr. Osbourne.
Willow shook her head, no, she shouldn't think about it. It was in the
past. Through everything, she kept her beliefs and opinions. She was a
firm believer that when one married, it should be for love and not for
money or position. If she were to spend the rest of her days with someone,
she had to love him. Something so simple, yet no one seemed to understand
her. Willow glanced up and took a good look at herself. She saw that though
her face was young, her eyes held much knowledge beyond her years. A part
of her was saddened at the loss of innocence in her eyes. She grew up too
early, never truly having a childhood. Her parents were always abroad,
traveling all over, leaving her to Jenny’s care. The young woman provided
her with as much as she could and when she finally married Giles, who claimed
the position as tutor, things became easier for Willow since she finally
had some sort of father figure in her life. When her parents decided to
move to the Americas permanently, she was more relieved then saddened.
She hated pretending that her family was picture perfect to society. When
the truth was finally out, she could’ve cared less at the supposed scandalous
move. In the end, it was for the best and that was all that mattered.
“There.”
Willow looked at Marie and smiled, “Oh, you’ve done wonders.”
“No, dearie, you’re a natural beauty. Now, it’s just shining out brighter.”
She smiled at the compliment and got to her feet, following Marie out
the door. Willow was half way down the stairs when she heard the maid announce
Buffy. The redhead quickened her steps and held Buffy’s hands with a small
smile, “You’re here early.”
Buffy smiled back and squeezed Willow’s hands, “I didn’t want you to
lecture me about being late again.” She looked her over and her smile grew,
“You look lovely.”
Willow looked down at herself. She was wearing the newest style. Buffy
insisted that she just had to wear her newly bought dress to the dance.
The color, a dark burgundy, suited her perfectly and with her hair done
up in a simple twist, with small curls framing her face, she truly looked
radiant. “As do you.”
Buffy’s gown was light pink, a bit more low cut then hers, and her hairstyle
was more complicated. It was also done up but she had put small roses in
her curls, giving her an innocent yet sophisticated look. Around her neck
was a silver cross. Willow raised an eyebrow at the necklace, “Being careful?”
Buffy brought a hand up to the necklace and smiled nervously, “You can
never be too sure.”
Willow nodded before taking her hand again and leading her out the door,
“Come, Giles has already prepared a carriage to take us there.”
~*~
Spike tried his best not to look annoyed as another group of women made
their way to where he and Angelus stood. He leaned away from the fawning
group and towards Angelus as he whispered, “Was it really necessary to
invite so many of these bints?”
Angelus kept his charming smile on as he answered, “Have a little fun,
William.” The look in his eye told Spike exactly what kind of fun he meant.
“No thanks, mate, I have some taste.” Spike pushed his way through the
crowd of women and made his way toward the dance floor. His blue eyes surveyed
the scene. The floor was filled with light pinks and blues, the colors
that were popular this season. No originality, always following the crowds.
A flash of red caught his eye as the dancers moved around and around to
the music. Spike’s eyes narrowed when he finally caught her. Her head was
leant back and her eyes were closed. She was obviously lost in the music
and the steps as she made her way around the dance floor, giving her partner
full control of her. He continued to watch her as she danced and when the
song finally ended, the spell was broken and her eyes snapped open. Beautiful
green eyes looked back at him before glancing another way. He let out an
unneeded sigh. Who was she?
She was intriguing. Something about her just screamed at him, what,
he couldn’t place. He moved towards her until he was right behind her.
He could smell the remnants of perfume on her mixed in with sweat, creating
a tangy sweetness. His hand moved down to hers as he grabbed onto it, bringing
it up, and giving her knuckles a small kiss. He held onto her hand as she
turned around and looked at him in surprise, “Sir?”
Spike shot her his most seducing smile, the one that no women had ever
refused him of anything after seeing it, “Will you dance with me?”
Willow was taken back at the deep color of his eyes and the intensity
of his gaze. His posture and confidence in himself was captivating. So
captivating that she had no choice but to say, “Yes.” She knew she shouldn't
have accepted. After all, they hadn't even been introduced but there was
just something about him. One look into his eyes and she could deny him
nothing.
He led her to the dance floor and stood across from her, only a few
feet apart as the others in the room took formation, waiting for the song
to begin. At the first notes, she took a step forward and moved towards
him. She held up her hand as he did his, their hands never touching and
yet it felt as though he was burning through her. Not with his touch but
with his eyes. He was staring deep into her and she could feel his eyes
on her even when her back was turned. When they were face to face again,
their hands met below their waists and slowly rose together. Both stared
at their joined fingers as they made their way around the floor. Willow
finally let go of him when she had to and couldn’t help but feel a sense
of loss. She followed the others in front of her and got back to her original
position, doing a small curtsy as the song finally ended.
Willow turned around and breathed deeply, trying to sort out the mixed
emotions inside her. One dance, a few minutes with one man did that to
her. She walked off the dance floor and looked back, her eyes searching
for the man that she just danced with but he was gone. She shook her head
in confusion and wonder. Who was he?
~*~
Willow was still dazed when Buffy rushed up to her, “Come, come, Willow,
Mrs. Lanet’s gotten us an introduction.” She looked at her best friend
and shook her head, “You’ve danced the whole night, haven’t you?”
The redhead finally looked at Buffy and blinked a few times,“No, not the whole night,” Willow shook her head, “But, speaking of which, I’ve just had the most exhilarating dance.”
“Really? With whom?”
“That’s just it, I don’t know.” Willow followed Buffy as the blonde
led the way, “Where are we off to?”
“Mrs. Lanet is going to introduce us.”
“To whom?”
“The Ramseys.”
Willow let out a sigh of frustration, “Why must we be introduced? Couldn’t
we just dance?”
“They’re lovely, Willow. I’ve seen them. The women here have just been
fawning over the two brothers and the men are all drawn to the one sister.”
“I could care less for,” Willow looked up as she caught sight of the
man she had danced with. And he was speaking to… Mrs. Lanet. Could he be..?
“Ahh, Miss Summers and Miss Rosen,” Mrs. Lanet cooed as she saw the
girls approach, “This is Mr. Angelus Ramsey,” She nodded towards the dark
haired vampire who was eyeing Buffy carefully, “And this is Mr. William
Ramsey.” Spike stared intently at Willow, a bit surprised that he was getting
introduced to her so soon. “Gentlemen, this is Miss Buffy Summers and Miss
Willow Rosen.” Mrs. Lanet smiled at Buffy once more before backing away,
“I’ll leave you four alone then.”
Angelus cocked his head to the side. So, this was the Slayer? He exchanged
a look with Spike who was also looking at Buffy curiously. This should
be fun. Willow watched as both men looked at Buffy intently, her heart
dropped a little at the lack of attention she was receiving from William.
Just as well. She managed a weak smile and cleared her throat, “You have
quite a home, Mr. Ramsey, it’s truly amazing.”
Spike watched as Willow refused to meet his eye, instead focusing all
her attention on Angelus. He couldn’t help but feel a twinge of jealousy
at this. Before Angelus could answer, he stepped in. After all, he was
also Mr. Ramsey, “A bit too spacious for my tastes.”
Willow glanced at him for a moment before looking away, trying to focus
on anything else except him. She brought her hand up to her throat and
smiled, “I’m a bit thirsty.” Spike’s attention was drawn to her bare neck.
Long and pale, the skin looking supple and soft. Right now, he wanted nothing
more then to grab her and place soft kisses on her skin. Willow looked
at Buffy, “You stay here, I’ll meet with you later.” Before another word
could be said, she turned around and walked off.
Spike gave Angelus a look before walking off after her. She was ignoring
him for some reason but he wasn’t going to be put off that easily. Simply
put, he wanted her and whatever he wanted, he got. “Miss Rosen.”
Willow paused for a moment before continuing to walk, her steps faster
as she made her way through the crowd. Again she heard, louder this time,
“Miss Rosen.” She felt a hand on her elbow and looked up.
“Miss Rosen, I believe Mr. Ramsey is calling for you.”
Willow forced out a smile and turned around, “Thank you, Mr. Syton.”
She looked Spike in the eye and tried to remain as amiable as possible,
“Is something the matter, Mr. Ramsey?”
He looked at her with a blank expression on his face though his eyes
still held that same intense gaze, “I wish to continue our conversation.
It was cut off much too quickly. If you favor a drink then I shall walk
with you.”
She shook her head, “You have much to attend to, I’m sure. I’d hate
to keep you.”
“I insist.”
Willow let out a defeated sigh, “Alright, then.”
The two walked towards the table filled with plates of desserts of all
sorts. She reached for a cup and felt a hand on hers. She looked up into
Spike’s eyes and couldn’t help the gasp that slipped from her lips.
“Let me.”
She grabbed the cup off the table and the ladle, filling it with punch,
“I’m quite capable of getting myself something to drink, thank you.” Willow
had to stop herself from gulping all of it down as she watched the others
dance, wanting nothing more than to dance among them.
“I did not mean to insult your capabilities, Miss Rosen. I was merely
offering myself as assistance.”
“You are too kind, sir, but I will be just fine on my own.”
“Right now, perhaps, but I shall stay with you in case something should come up.”
Willow looked at him desperately. Why did the man have to be so stubborn?
Though, she couldn’t help but feel something flutter in her stomach at
the thought that he didn’t want to leave her. Her gaze returned to the
dance floor and Spike watched as she swayed to the music. She obviously
wanted to dance.
He grinned, well, whatever the lady wishes. He grabbed her hand and
led her to the dance floor, ignoring her protests as she questioned what
he was doing. He kept a firm hand on her waist as they merged into the
crowd of dancers. She continued to look at him in surprise and he smiled
back, the smile mischievous.
Willow shook her head and laughed, “Do you always go against what you
are told?”
“Always.”
~Part: 3~
Angelus watched as Spike went after the newly introduced Miss Rosen.
So, someone finally caught his eye. The vampire couldn’t help but smile.
He hoped she had a strong mentality or his blue-eyed childe would soon
drive her insane. His head snapped back to Buffy when he heard her voice.
What’d she say? “I beg your pardon.”
“I was simply asking how you’re enjoying London so far.” Buffy gave
him an innocent smile. There was something about this man that seemed a
bit off. Something inside her, something unfamiliar was rushing through
her. She’d written it off as the buzz she had received from the drink she
had when she first arrived. She looked up at him and when their eyes met,
she felt a chill go down her spine. Instinctively, she backed away a step
before mentally scolding herself for having such childish fears. So, this
gentleman made her a bit nervous, he would make any woman with eyes nervous.
He certainly was handsome. She knew she had to be on her best behavior
if she wanted to capture his attention. She knew it was marvelously wicked
of her to try and catch Mr. Angelus Ramsey, especially since she was already
aware of Mr. Finn’s intentions but there was something between her and
Angelus. She felt it as soon as she laid eyes on him. This man was different.
He raised an eyebrow, “It’s been quite a bore, actually. Before our
introduction, we’ve barely made any contact with anybody here and so our
days passed away slowly.” He shot her a knowing look, “It’s beginning to
get better though.”
She flushed from his compliment and frankness, “I assure you, Mr. Ramsey,
London is far from boring.” Well, that was a lie if she ever told one,
especially coming from her.
“I prefer the country,” he replied, “Though the city does have its perks.”
He gave her another smile.
Buffy blushed and fingered a ribbon on her dress, “I’ve never been to
the country though I have heard some dreadful stories.”
“Well, you are mistaken in your view then. It is quite beautiful out
there. If you have the proper guide,” he smiled at her, “the country can
actually be quite charming.”
She smiled again before looking away. Never before had she felt like
this. There was a funny feeling in her stomach and she felt a bit light-headed
both from the heat, the lack of breath due to her corset, and the conversation
that she just had with Mr. Ramsey. Buffy was so focused on her thoughts
that she didn’t even hear Angelus inquire after her condition. Her hazel
eyes focused on his mesmerizing brown eyes before her own rolled to the
back of her head, the whole crowd becoming a haze of pinks, blues, and
yellows before fading away to black.
~^~**~^~
Willow was so caught up in the feeling of Spike’s hands wrapped around
her waist as they twirled around on the dance floor that she didn’t even
hear the gasps. It was only when Mrs. Lanet came rushing up to her that
her eyes snapped open.
“Oh, dear, oh dear,” she spoke frantically, “Miss Summers has just fainted.”
Willow immediately pulled away from Spike and grabbed onto Mrs. Lanet’s
hand as she led her through the crowd, “Is she alright?”
“I do not know, Miss Rosen.”
Her brow furrowed in worry and as she pushed her way through the crowd,
she finally saw that Buffy was lying on a sofa, her cheeks flushed with
color though the rest of her face was paler then usual. Willow quickly
knelt beside her and touched her forehead gently, “Buffy? Buffy, can you
hear me?”
Buffy’s eyes fluttered open when she heard the familiar sound of Willow’s
voice, “Willow?”
Willow let out a sigh of relief and grabbed onto Buffy’s hand, “Yes,
I’m here.”
Buffy looked at her and smiled before looking past her, seeing all the
inquiring faces and raised eyebrows. She sat up slowly, still holding onto
Willow’s hand as she tried to sort out her thoughts and clear her head
up at bit.
“I suppose you are feeling quite unwell?”
Buffy shook her head dismissively, “I’m quite alright, Willow, just
a few more minutes sitting down and-“
“No, no, that will not do. I should get you home.”
Buffy looked at Willow and saw the worry and stubbornness in her eyes
before sighing in defeat, “Alright.”
Willow gave Buffy her full support as the blonde got to her feet and
leaned a bit against the redhead. They got only a few steps before Angelus
stepped in front of them. He looked around; most of the crowd had gone
back to dancing and talking though there were still a few nosier ones that
kept looking on.
“Are you feeling indisposed, Miss Summers?”
“Just a bit faint,” she replied with a small smile, “I do apologize
for creating such a scene.”
“It’s not a problem. Just what we needed to liven the party up a bit.”
Buffy nodded at his joke and leaned a little more of her weight on Willow,
“We should be off, then. Thank you so much for the lovely ball.”
He smiled politely in return and they got a few steps further before
he spoke again, “Will I be seeing you anytime soon, Miss Summers? Perhaps,
at a time when you are feeling up to spirits.”
She latched onto Willow’s hand a squeezed in delight before replying,
“If you wish.”
“Then, may I have the honor of having you join my party at the opera
next Thursday?”
Buffy smiled brightly and nodded, “Yes.”
Angelus bowed and backed away slowly, “I bid you goodnight then, Miss
Summers.” He nodded at Willow, “Miss Rosen.”
Willow grinned as Buffy bit back her squeal. When they were away from
the crowd and after they retrieved their shawls, Buffy finally spoke. “The
opera, Willow, the opera. Oh, that man is so lovely, indeed.”
“I see you have captured his attentions as well.”
She smiled before sighing, “I’m suddenly feeling much better.”
“It’s good to hear, Miss Summers. I would hate for you to leave feeling
unwell.”
Willow’s head snapped up at the voice and she took a step back before
breathing, “Mr. William.”
“I couldn’t let you leave without a proper goodbye.”
Buffy took a few steps back before saying, “I shall be in the carriage
then, Willow.”
Willow nodded briefly before turning back to Spike, “I am sorry that
our dance was interrupted.”
“As am I,” Spike moved forward and grabbed her hands.
She gasped at the contact, “Mr. William, I-“
“Just William,” he said firmly, “My name is William.”
She paused before finally nodding, “William.”
“I do wish you did not have to leave so soon but I know you have to
attend to Miss Summers.”
“Yes, well-“
“A dinner party,” Spike said suddenly, “I am having a dinner party,
next Tuesday.” He tightened his grip on her hands, “Will you come?”
Willow felt her throat go dry as she looked into his blue eyes, suddenly
feeling lost in them. When she finally found her voice, all she could whisper
was, “Yes.”
He lifted her hands and placed a gentle but lingering kiss on them,
“Goodnight then, Miss Willow.”
“Goodnight,” she said dazed as she turned away and wrapped the shawl
around herself. The rush of the cool night air meeting her face broke her
out of her daze as she walked down the stairs, all the while feeling something
burn through her. She turned around and looked at the windows though she
saw nothing. She shook her head and laughed it off.
Spike touched the glass in front of him, liking the cool feel of it as he watched Willow with careful eyes. This woman intrigued him. She had captivated him with a few dances and light conversations. She had a mind of her own which was very rare indeed among these times. His blue eyes took on a darker tint as he smiled wickedly, perhaps London would not be as boring as he had thought.
~Part: 4~
Willow leaned her head against the sofa, her thoughts on William. It had only been a few days since the ball and she was a bit disappointed that he didn’t call, but she kept her spirits up, there was that dinner party and it was only four days away.
Buffy had come over earlier at the request of Giles. Apparently, he
had some news to share with the young blonde. But, as to what that news
was, even Jenny didn’t know. Giles had refused to tell anyone about it,
insistent that Buffy should be the first to know. Willow was getting more
and more curious by the minute.
Green eyes looked up as she saw Marie enter the room with a small smile
on her face. The maid’s next words brought an enormous smile to Willow’s
face, “Captain Alexander Harris.”
Willow shot off the sofa and rushed up to him, throwing her arms around
him when Marie left the room. She knew it was inappropriate to do so, but
Xander was a childhood friend of hers, her most valued friend, excluding
Buffy. She rarely saw him since he had been promoted to Captain. “Oh, when
did you get back?”
He pulled back and smiled at her, “Just now. I have not even found a
place to stay but I knew that I had to come see you. It was my top priority.”
She continued to smile as she led him to the sofa, “You shall stay here.
I will not accept any arguments. We have plenty of room and oh,” she held
onto his hands, “I cannot believe you are back. The three months without
you have just been dreadful.”
“Have you not had anyone to keep you company?”
“Oh, no, Buffy has been company enough but I’ve just missed you.”
A goofy grin slipped onto his lips, “I’ve missed you as well, Willow.
Speaking of Buffy, where is she?”
“She’s speaking to Giles right now. He’s refused to tell any of us *what*
the subject is but I am positive it will be revealed soon enough.” Willow
shook her head, “Oh, enough talk of these trifling matters, tell me, how
was it?”
“It’s certainly been an invigorating experience,” He paused and there
was a hitch in his voice as he said the next words, “We’ve had a few new
additions to our crew.”
“Oh, really?” Willow never saw the nervous look in Xander’s eyes as
he said this, “Hopefully they have been amiable.”
“Yes, they have been, but, uhh,” he paused, not really knowing how to
tell her the news, “Some of the additions have not been so new.”
She looked up, her eyes filled with curiosity, “So, you knew some of
them, then?”
“Yes, I did and I believe you do as well.”
“What?” Willow let out a small laugh before pausing, realizing what
he was saying, “You don’t mean.” He nodded silently and she gulped and
whispered hoarsely, “Mr. Osbourne, he’s among the new additions.”
“Lieutenant Osbourne,” Xander corrected before clearing his throat,
“He is here, in town.”
After a few moments, Willow finally found her voice and replied, “Oh.”
“I did not mean to be the bringer of disappointing news, Willow,” Xander
said, feeling the pangs of guilt shoot through him, “I just thought you’d
want to be informed.”
“Yes,” Willow said quietly before shaking her head and smiling as brightly
as she could at that moment, “It is not disappointing news, I was simply
a bit caught off guard. Thank you for telling me.”
“That is not all,” Xander hated to press forth but he knew that if he
didn’t get the next part out, it would only make everything worse in the
end.
“What is it?” The redhead’s tone took on one of dread. The look on his
face told her that if anything, it wasn’t going to be something that would
make her happy.
“He’s engaged.”
Willow felt the breath go out from her lungs as she heard these words
and the pain that she had spent months repressing, rose again within her.
She looked down, not wanting Xander to see the tears shining in her eyes
as she asked, “To her?”
“Yes,” he replied quietly, “Miss Shylie. Miss Veruca Shylie.”
Willow took in a few gasping breaths and pushed back the tears, knowing
that she shouldn’t and couldn’t cry in front of others, especially not
Xander. She realized how hard it must’ve been for him to tell her this
news and it certainly was not the best thing to hear from him after missing
his absence for so long, but it was something that needed to be done. And,
she was grateful for his prioritizing. She looked up at him and forced
out a smile, “Thank you.”
“I’m sorry, Willow, I wish I didn’t-“
“I know,” she forced a wider smile, “I know.”
There was an awkward silence between them now that the news was let
out, neither wanting to say much, the mood ruined by the news. Xander sat
back uncomfortably before grabbing Willow’s hand. She looked up surprised
at the contact but seeing the look in his eyes, she knew why he did it.
“You’ve already gone through this, Willow, I know you’re strong enough
to make it through. And, you know I will always be here for you.”
She smiled at him, touched at his words and comfort, “I remember, you’ve
always been there for me.”
Their conversation was interrupted as Buffy stormed into the room, her
stature tense and her eyes showing confusion and disbelief. When she looked
up, all traces of her discomfort disappeared and she nearly squealed, “Xander,
you’re back!”
Xander got off the sofa and smiled as he walked towards Buffy, “Oh,
and you have gotten enormously pretty, even prettier then when I last left
you.”
Willow took this chance to turn her body towards the window so the two
couldn’t see her movements as she wiped away the tears. She took a calming
breath before turning back around, Buffy and Xander still in a fit of smiles
and giggles as they talked. The redhead stood up and was about to join
them before Giles burst into the room, looking ready to say something before
he realized that they had company.
Immediately, he smiled and walked towards Xander, “Alexander, when did
you get back?”
“Just today, I had to come see you all.”
Giles smiled and nodded, “Are you staying in a hotel?”
“Actually-“
Willow cut him off and said firmly, “He is staying with us, Giles, I
insisted.”
“Yes, of course,” the older man patted Xander on the back, “We wouldn’t
have it any other way. Are you hungry? You always did have quite the appetite.”
Giles began to lead Xander out the room before turning around and shooting
Buffy a look which the blonde caught with a scowl.
Willow watched as the two left with a tinkling curiosity in her eyes.
She sat down on the sofa again, the thoughts of Daniel and Veruca still
fresh in her mind. But, they were quickly driven out as Buffy sat down
next to her, the blonde’s face one filled with worry and disbelief. Pushing
her own worries and confusion away, she looked at Buffy with care, “Something
the matter?”
“Do you remember,” Buffy clasped her hands together, “Those dreams that
I told you about?”
“Yes,” she replied quietly before asking, “Did you have another one?”
“No, no, quite the contrary, actually.”
“What?”
“They’re not just dreams, Willow, it’s all real. I didn’t want to believe
it at first and since I didn’t have another one of those horrid nightmares,
I thought that maybe it was all just a fluke or,” Buffy shook her head
and stood up, “something. But it isn’t. It’s been confirmed, Willow,” there
was a hitch in her voice, “all of it.”
“I’m not sure I’m understanding what you’re saying, Buffy.”
Buffy walked up to the window and placed her hand on the glass before
rolling her hand into a fist, “I’m the Slayer.”
“The Slayer?” Willow repeated, “You mean,” she paused, “About the vampires?”
The blonde turned around, tears in her eyes, “Yes, it’s all true. It
is my duty. I’m the Chosen One.”
“B-But,” Willow stuttered, “How do you know for sure? Perhaps-“
“The dreams, Willow, they were true and,” Buffy looked down, “I couldn’t
ignore them but there’s something else.”
“What is it?” Her tone was serious. Goodness, hadn’t she had enough
bad news today?
“I have a Watcher.”
“A Watcher?”
“He is to be my guide. He will teach me about the forces that I have
to fight. He will train me as well.”
The redhead looked at her with dread in her eyes, not wanting to ask
the next question though she already knew the answer, “Who is *he*?”
“Giles,” Buffy said softly, “He is to be my Watcher and I, his Slayer.”
Willow looked down at her shaking hands and sighed, “When are you leaving?”
Buffy’s head snapped up, “Leaving? Whoever said anything about leaving?”
“You are to leave, are you not?” Willow questioned, “But, these demons,
where are you to find them? Surely, there are none in London. They must
be,” she paused, “What?”
“Willow,” Buffy replied with serious eyes, “These demons roam our streets
when the sun sets, I must stay here to protect us.”
“But, in London?”
“You know as well as I do the streets of London at night are not safe.”
“From muggers and other sorts of fiends, yes, but from vampires?”
“They are amongst us.”
“Do you know *who*?”
“No,” Buffy shook her head, “I don’t. But, I should soon enough. Giles
will begin to teach and train me tomorrow.”
“And, what about today?”
Buffy let out a heavy sigh and looked away, “Today, well, today I pretend
that I still have some sort of normalcy in my life.”
“I’m so sorry, Buffy.”
“No matter,” she replied, trying to keep her tone light, “Let us go
out on a walk in the park. Some fresh air would be quite invigorating.”
“I suppose,” Willow replied quietly, her mind still reeling from all the news that she had just received.
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