Willow walked through the dirt covered street, a small happy smile on her face. She looked at Angelus then at William. "That was a lovely meal."

"I'm glad you enjoyed it, luv," William said, enjoying the feel of her warm hand in his as they walked through the dark streets.

"Are you warm enough?" Angelus asked the slight redhead, noticing the chill in the air. It was the second week of October and Winter was on its way. He and his children were still staying at the Wild Rose, but he had been making inquiries about purchasing some land in the area. He loved the Rose and didn't like the idea of leaving, but he knew that they needed their own space. So far, nothing had attracted his attention as a permanent place to settle. He could admit that the idea of leaving the Rose could be a factor in his displeasure with the proposed land sites. He had about decided to wait until after the winter before continuing his search.

"Yes," she said, warm in the coat that he had ordered for her from New York City. He had told her that he wanted to make sure she wouldn't be cold this winter. She loved the overcoat, feeling safe in its warmth. She looked at the quiet streets of Harrington, noticing that there were nearly half the amount of cowboys and men in the streets as there were even a month before. She smiled, "Winter is near."

"So you've said," William smiled, "I rather enjoy this cool air."

Willow laughed, running her finger over his palm. She felt Angelus put his arm around her shoulders as they continued the walk back towards the Rose. She sighed happily, thinking over the past few months. To thing her entire life would have changed so much in just a few short months. At the beginning of the summer, she had expected nothing to change. Now, very little was the same. She was in love with two men. She had found out that vampires indeed did exist. Cordelia had given up her family and was now living in the extra room on the third floor. The Chases had moved from Harrington, thankfully. Of course, some things hadn't changed. Anya was still refusing Xander's proposals of marriage. Faith was spending every night keeping an eye on the Rose and sleeping with Giles, only to run to her own bed every dawn. Buffy was still in love with Riley who refused to even be seen with her in public due to his mother's objections.

Angelus smiled at the look in her eyes. She was thinking. He had studied her enough to recognize all of her moods. Each different shade that her eyes would become. He could imagine what color they would be when she was experiencing extreme passion, but he had yet to see it. As yet, they had spent two weeks just kissing her, memorizing every detail of her mouth and neck. "Shall we take a walk down by the river or go on back to the Rose?"

"I would vote for a walk," William said, moving closer to Willow's side. He resisted the urge to kiss her, loving when she got in one of her thoughtful moods. She would smile this soft smile and her eyes would become the loveliest shade of light green. She would seem so peace that he wanted to share that with her. But, they were on the street. The very public street. His kiss would have to wait until they were away from the prying eyes of the public.

"A walk would be nice," Willow said, "but I need to stop by the Rose first. Dad told me he had a surprise before I left this evening."

"Well, then, the Rose it is. Then, a walk," Angelus said smiling at her. "We can't keep your father waiting. Especially when he has a surprise."

"Thank you," Willow said, smiling as she saw the Rose. It was the loudest and most active of the saloons in town. She went through the front doors, still holding William's hand. She stopped suddenly, causing William to run into her.

"Pet?" William asked, concered. He saw a wide smile cross her face as her eyes lit up. He glanced at Angelus who was shrugging. He then looked in the direction she was staring. He saw her father sitting at a table with Faith on one side and a stranger on the other. The stranger looked up, a slow smile crossing his face as he stood.

"If it isn't my little Rose," the stranger said, his voice soft but commanding.

"J.B.!" Willow cried out, letting go of William's hand and running into the older man's waiting arms. She kissed his cheek soundly as they hugged, her laughter causing Angelus and William to tense.

*****

Willow pulled back and looked at her old friend's face. She saw the lines etched across the handsome features and smiled sadly. He looked so tired. "It's nice to see you."

"As it is you, my little Rose," J.B. said, his eyes sweeping over the girl he considered a little sister. "You look happy."

"You look sad," she replied back, looking towards her father. "You rascal. Why didn't you tell me JB was coming to town?"

Giles laughed, "Sorry, honey. He asked me to keep it a secret. He didn't know exactly when he'd arrive anyway."

JB heard a low growl and glanced up, his dark eyes narrowing as he saw the two handsome men glaring at him. He smiled slightly, the quirking of his lips undetectable under his mustache. He looked back at Willow, "It looks like my little Rose has grown up."

"I'll be twenty next year, as you know," Willow said, blushing slightly. She glanced at William and Angelus and smiled. "Boys, I'd like you to meet an old friend. This is JB."

"Boys," JB drawled, putting his arm around Willow's shoulders as he nodded at the two men. He had heard all about them from Giles, but he wanted to make his own opinion. To see if they were good enough for the little girl that had opened her heart to him a dozen years before. "It's a pleasure, I'm sure."

"JB, this is Angelus Devlin and his brother William," Willow said. She noticed William glaring and frowned, wondering what the problem was. She moved from JB's brotherly embrace and took William's hand, wanting to reassure him that nothing was wrong.

"I heard about you boys," JB said simply, giving them no idea what he had heard.

"That's nice," Angelus said, "We have heard nothing about you."

"Ah, Rose, you didn't tell them about us?" JB asked, his eyes twinkling slightly.

"Oh, hush," Willow said, smiling at the Devlins. "JB has a fiance in every city across the West, I think."

"You're wounding me, darlin'," JB said.

"Don't listen to him," Willow said, smiling. "He's always this obnoxious."

"Nice to know," William said, his blue eyes watching the tall man. He sensed no immediate threat, but there was something dark in this man's eyes. He saw JB's eyes soften as they looked at Willow and he realized that the man cared about Willow, but not the same way as he and Angelus did. He suddenly felt more relaxed. "So, what brings you to town?"

JB flinched slightly, "I'm tracking some people. Four boys that killed some people in Johnson County. Rumor is that they're headed through Harrington. Figured I'd use it as a chance to catch up with some old friends and catch some bad guys."

"You're a lawman?" Angelus asked, also having relaxed when he realized JB wasn't interested in Willow as anything more than a friend.

"I have been," JB smiled, "But then again, who hasn't in these parts? I'm helping out an old friend. He's been trying to track these boys from Missouri and can't get a hold of them."

"Are they dangerous?" Willow asked softly.

JB smiled, "Don't you worry about it Rose. You've got two strong men to protect you," he looked at Giles and winked before turning back to face Willow. "Oh, and those boys too."

William felt a laugh as he rolled his eyes, "Funny man, huh?"

"I try," JB said, looking back at the table. "Why don't y'all sit and have a drink?"

"We're going for a walk," Willow said. "But we'll probably be back before you retire for the evening. Can we take a rain check?"

"Of course, honey," JB said, glancing at the two men behind his Rose. "Keep her safe, boys."

"We always do," William said, seeing the man nod.

"I look forward to talking to you both," JB said, letting them know that he wasn't satisfied yet.

"As do we," Angelus said smoothly, seeing the smirk on Faith's lips. He took Willow's hand, "Shall we, my dear?"

"Lead the way, darling," Willow said, winking at JB before she turned to walk back outside. "See you in a couple of hours, JB."

"Be careful, Rose," he said, frowning slightly before he looked back at Giles. "So, anyone up for a game of cards?"

*****

"So, why haven't we heard about this JB guy?" William asked, his tone slightly jealous.

Willow smiled, "He's just a good friend, William."

"He has demons," Angelus said softly. "His eyes are haunted."

"You noticed too?" Willow said, smiling slightly. "JB is a complicated man."

William moved to sit down under a tree, pulling Willow to rest between his legs. "Who is he?"

"Just a guy," Willow said, resting her head against William's chest. She heard his groan and smiled, "He used to be a wagon master. He came to the Rose not many years after Dad opened it. He stayed at the hotel to recuperate after he was attacked by a bear, of all things. I was about seven years old I guess. He was a couple of years older than I am now. I tagged along after him and he started telling me all these stories about his life. I bet he made half of them up, but I still listened. He left a couple of months later, but he always managed to stop back in any time he was in the area."

"Adopted by the Rose," Angelus said, smiling slightly. It was clear she looked at JB as an adoptive big brother of sorts.

"Speaking of Rose. Why does he call you his little Rose?" William asked, not liking that this man had a private nickname for his redhead.

"He knows that Dad named the Wild Rose after me. JB always calls me Rose." Willow explained. "So, you see, there is no need to be jealous. I'm like a little sister to him."

"Good," William said, smiling at her.

"He wants to put us through a questioning," Angelus said, slightly amused.

"Well, there is nothing for either of you to worry about," Willow said, smiling as she settled against William's chest. "He'll love you both as much as I do."

William glanced at Angelus, seeing that his sire had noticed her words. He smiled, kissing the top of her head. "I think I can handle whatever he asks, pet."

"Can we forget about JB for a bit?" Willow asked, smiling softly. "I just want to enjoy this evening with you both."

"Your wish is our command," Angelus said, taking her hand as they watched the moonlight dance across the river.

*****

William kissed Willow tenderly, his hand on her face. "Sleep tight, luv."

"You behave around JB. He looks worn out," Willow said softly.

"I always behave," William said, moving away from her.

Angelus kissed her gently, pulling away and then brushing his lips against her forehead. "I'll see you tomorrow, Willow."

"Keep an eye on William," she said, smiling as she went into her room.

William looked at his sire and smiled, "So we ready to face the drawling lawman?"

"As we'll ever be," Angelus said, rolling his eyes.

The Devlins went back downstairs and headed towards the saloon. They walked in to find the place empty except for a few straggling cowboys. They went to sit at JB's table, nodding at the man as they sat.

"Is my Rose settled upstairs?" JB asked.

"Yes, sir," William said. "Willow is probably sleeping by now."

"Or looking at the stars from her balcony," Angelus added, smiling slightly.

JB nodded, "Sounds like her. So, does she know you two are vampires or not?"

"What?" William hissed.

JB looked at them patiently. "I've been all over this territory, boys. I've nothing against your kind. Rode with some of them throughout Arkansas and Missouri. Had my life saved by one guy down in Texas. I just want to know if my girl knows what you are?"

"We haven't told her," Angelus said.

"I didn't ask if you'd told her. I asked if she knew," JB said, taking a swig of his whiskey. "Rose is a smart one. She heard my tales of your kind back when she was a young un. She'd know the signs. Does she know what you are?"

"She knows about vampires?" William said, glancing at Angelus and seeing surprise in his dark eyes.

"She knows just about everything, boys," JB said, smiling slightly. "Would have thought you two knew that by now."

"I don't think she knows," William said softly.

"She's never given any indication of knowing that we're dead," Angelus said.

JB laughed, "Then she must know." He nodded, "That point is taken care of then. So, what are your intentions towards my Rose?"

"That's it?" Angelus said softly, scowling. "You know that we're vampires, you think she knows, and you just forget it?"

"Do you plan on killing or hurting her?" JB asked, taking another drink from his glass.

"Hell no!" William said, shocked by the idea.

"Well, then, what's the problem?" JB asked. He saw their confusion and smiled, "Boys, when you've seen as much as I have, there is no difference between vampire and human. The line is drawn on the evil that lives in a man's heart. I look at you and don't see a threat to my Rose."

"We have no intention of harming her or her family," William said.

"And what exactly are your intentions? My Rose is not the type of girl to scurry behind closed doors and hide her affections. She loves you both, a fact that is evident to anyone that looks into her eyes when she's with you both. What exactly do you plan to do about that?"

"We are staying in Harrington," Angelus said quietly. "Beyond that, there are no definite plans."

"I want to marry her," William said truthfully. "But I can't tell you what the future holds."

JB nodded, appreciating their honesty. "I plan to be in town until I capture those boys. I look forward to the opportunity to get to know you both better."

"These guys you're after, you said that they murdered some people?" William asked.

JB nodded, frowning, "I didn't want to upset Rose, but the lady used to work here. She married a farmer and moved to Johnson County a few years back. She, her husband and two children were slaughtered. We believe that she had been forced into sexual relations with the men that killed her. Their house and barn were burned. It was the latest in five attacks that are attributed to the Clay boys. I knew Molly and plan on seeing these boys brought to justice."

"This Molly...she was a friend of Willow's?" Angelus asked.

"Rose is a friend to everyone," JB said. "She and Molly kept in touch and she's going to take the girl's death hard."

"If you need any help," William said, "let us know."

"I'll do that," JB said, getting to his feet. "You boys seem all right. I think you'll do."

William felt a smile cross his face at the man's approval. "You aren't gonna tell Willow about us being vampires are you?"

"I told you boys, she probably already knows," JB laughed. "But, I won't mention it to her. Know this though. If you boys don't take care of her, I'll take care you you."

"Wouldn't expect anything less," Angelus said, watching the man nod as he went towards the hotel.

*****

Anya stood and walked towards her window. She looked outside, her eyes looking over the town that had been her home for the past few years. She glanced at the bed, smiling softly as she took in Xander's sleeping face. She looked back out the window, lost in her thoughts. She had counted her money that day. She had more than enough to make it across the west. She had been thinking of going towards the Colorado territories. She had heard there was a shortage of women in most of that area and figured she could find work somewhere. She frowned, not wanting to just go start the same life all over again. She wanted to have enough money to buy some land and live on her own. She didn't need a man to take care of her.

"Hmm, honey?" Xander said sleepily, sitting up and yawning. He saw her standing by the window, the moonlight bathing her nude body. He smiled, loving the sight of her. "Can't sleep?"

Anya turned towards him, trying to ignore the feelings he brought out in her. She didn't believe in love, but she couldn't explain why he made her heart speed up so quickly by just smiling at her. When she was with him, she felt as if she was the only woman on the planet. "No, I couldn't."

"Why don't you come on back to bed?" he asked, patting the bed beside him.

She moved to the bed, sitting down beside him. She felt his mouth brush against her neck and sighed, feeling too peaceful in his arms. "I'm tired."

"Baby, will you finally put me out of my misery and marry me?" he asked softly, pulling her against his chest.

"No," she said, her voice tired. "And quit asking. I'm getting annoyed with this constant pestering."

"Sorry," he said defensively, "for loving you and wanting to be with you for our entire lives."

"Xander, please. Not now. I don't need this tonight," she said softly.

"It appears you don't need me at all," Xander said, getting to his feet and pulling his clothes on. "I don't know why I continue to set myself up like this."

"Xander, get back in bed," Anya said, watching him dress.

"Why? So you can reject me again in the morning?" Xander asked, looking towards her. "I promise to leave you alone. It seems that you want, to be alone."

"Xander!" she cried out softly, watching him leave. She felt tears on her face as she groaned, falling back on the bed. She would not cry. She would not cry. She got to her feet, lighting the lamp. She moved towards the window, watching with teary eyes as Xander got on his horse and rode back towards his house.

*****************

Buffy tossed on her bed, sleep eluding her. She had seen Riley leave soon after they had finished their business. He had again left money on her dresser, sneaking away into the night. She wished she didn't love him. He was not the man she needed in her life. He treated her worse than most of her clients did. Thought of her as a whore. She sighed, hoping her feelings would either go away or that they might be returned. She heard the door slam down the hall and knew that Xander and Anya were fighting again. She smiled softly, thinking that no matter, some things never changed. She closed her eyes, determined to get some sleep.

*****************

Cordelia slept soundly, dreaming of her new life and her new job. Visions of Graham occupied the majority of the dream as she smiled in her sleep, snuggling under the covers.

*****************

Faith wiped the cloth over her mouth, holding her stomach as she cleaned herself up. She looked in the mirror, wondering what was making her so ill. She had just thrown up for the second evening in a row. She let out a deep breath, trying to calm herself. It was barely winter and she was already getting sick. She searched her eyes for illness, not seeing anything unusual. In fact, she thought she looked rather healthy. She frowned, deciding it must have been either the water or something she had eaten. She finished washing her face, making sure she was clean. She put the rag down and went back to the bed. She lay beside Giles, smiling softly at the man before she laid her head on his chest. Hopefully, she would feel better in the morning.

*****************

JB put the bottle of whiskey on the table beside his bed. He couldn't sleep. He rarely slept anymore. He would close his eyes and see the faces of the men that he had killed. Most of them had deserved death, but they still haunted his dreams. He frowned as he thought of the man he had killed not two weeks before. Mike had not been of the ones that deserved such a fate. JB frowned as he thought of the innocent man he had killed. The only death by his hand that he felt guilty about. The reason he was now roaming the country searching for a group of men that deserved worse than death. He thought of his Rose and the changes in her since he had been here last. She was so beautiful. He had known it would not be long before some smart man saw what he saw. As it was, it just happened to be two men. But, the Devlins were to be trusted. Of that, he would stake his life.

He took another drink, deciding that it was pointless to put off sleeping because of dreams. Mikey was dead and gone. Nothing would bring the man back. But, finding the Clay brothers and killing them might just make him smile up in heaven. JB closed his eyes, feeling glad to be back at the Rose. He had had some of his most peaceful times in this hotel. He still came back here whenever something bad had happened in his life. He smiled, feeling more relaxed than he had in weeks. Sleep soon overtook him as he began to snore softly.

*****

Willow walked into the saloon, smiling as she saw JB sitting by himself at a table. She went over and sat down, "What are you doing, old man?"

"Waiting for you, darlin'," he said smoothly, smiling as he looked at her. He had been in Harrington for a day and a half so far and already felt like part of the rag tag family.

"You charmer, you," she said, smiling. She looked into his eyes, saying, "Seriously, how are you?"

"I've been better," he said. "With everything that happened with Mike and those boys. Well, it's nice just taking it easy for awhile."

"I'm sorry about Mike. He was a nice man," Willow said softly, having met Mike Williams one time when he had come to Harrington with JB.

"Yes, he was," JB agreed. "I like your boys."

Willow smiled, "You do?"

"They're...different," he said, having made them a promise not to mention their undead status, "but they love you."

"You mean, they're vampires," she said, smiling. "Just like that Jeff guy you used to tell me about. You know, I never really believed your stories or the ones in those books I read. But, meeting them? Well, it was obvious.'

"They don't think you know," he said, smiling. "I knew you did."

"I'm waiting for them to tell me. I'm sure they have their reasons for not admitting it to me." Willow smiled, "On to another subject. How long do you plan to stay? We didn't have a chance to speak all day yesterday. Dad kept you pretty busy."

"He's a good guy," JB said. "To answer your question, I plan on staying until I find the Clay boys. After that, I thought I might head north, maybe to Nebraska. I heard from an old friend that wants me to spend some time with him and his family. I don't know yet what I plan to do."

"Well, you can stay here as long as you want," Willow said. She looked up as Faith came down the stairs. "Morning Faith."

"How can you be so happy this early?" Faith asked, smiling weakly. Last night, she had been up for the second night in a row with this illness. She had heard Xander and Anya arguing again too.

"I don't know," Willow said, shrugging. "If you'd like, I could be mean."

"You couldn't be rude if you tried," Faith said, laughing as she sat down. "Howya doin' JB?"

"Ask me that again in a few hours, Faith," JB said, smiling at the pretty girl.

"You look tired this morning," Willow said looking at her friend.

"I was sick last night," Faith explained. "Feel much better today."

"Hello girls," Graham said, walking in with a crate of liquor. "JB. How's it going?"

"Is it always so busy here?" JB asked Willow with a smile.

"Yep. Midday is when they all start waking up," Willow said.

"Everyone except the Devlins. You know, the pesky sunlight and all," Faith said, yawning.

JB started to laugh, "Does everyone know about them?"

"The important people do," Willow said, smiling. "And they don't think any of us do."

"Yeah, they may be gorgeous but they aren't too bright," Faith said, snickering at Willow's glare.

"I'm staying out of this one," Graham said, rolling his eyes. He set the crate down and listened to the girls argue back and forth as JB laughed at their antics. He glanced at the doorway leading to the hotel and smiled slightly. He moved towards that way, deciding to see if the princess needed anything.

Willow watched Graham go into the hotel and nudged Faith. "See? I told you that he and Cordelia were perfect for each other."

"Fine, I admit he's interested," Faith said, laughing.

"Is this an example of the conversations you girls have?" JB asked with a smile.

"Usually," Willow said, laughing. She heard a noise and looked up to see Buffy coming down the stairs. She frowned, seeing the look on her friend's face. "Buffy? Honey, is everything all right?"

Buffy looked at her friends, tears on her face. She held out a piece of paper to them, saying softly, "It's Anya. She's left. She said she had to get away from here. She's headed west." She sat down, completely in shock. "Anya's gone."

*****

"Gone?" Willow said softly.

Buffy nodded, looking at the paper as if it would bite her. "She left."

"I'm not surprised," Faith said quietly. She saw the others look at her and she shrugged, "She doesn't like to be happy. Anyone can see that. It's like she doesn't trust happiness or something. I just hope she has a safe journey."

"Me too," Willow said, realizing that Faith was right. Anya did like to resist being happy. "Oh, God. Xander is going to have a fit."

Buffy sighed, "Poor Xander. Poor Anya."

"Anya can take care of herself," JB said. "I don't feel that you need to worry about her."

"I hope she at least writes us to tell us she arrives safely, where ever it is she's going," Willow said, not believing that one of her friends was gone.

"She should," Faith said, knowing that they would probably not here another word from their friend. She whispered to herself, "Be safe, Anya."

JB looked at Willow, remembering suddenly, "Rose, did I tell you about Molly?"

"No, what about Molly?" Willow asked JB, saying a small prayer for Anya.

"The family that was killed by those boys that I'm hunting?" JB said, knowing that she needed to know her friend was dead, but feeling that this was really a bad time for her to find out the news. He should have waited, but he didn't want her to hear from some stranger passing through.

"Oh no...Molly?" Willow said, closing her eyes. "And the babies?"

"They're dead. The Clay boys killed Jake, Molly and the girls," JB said, his tone low.

Willow felt tears in her eyes as she realized that she had lost two friends in one day. Sure, Molly had been taken weeks before and Anya was not dead, she hoped, but they were both out of her life now. She sighed, "I hope you find these boys then, JB."

"I aim to do my best," JB said, looking at the glass of whiskey in front of him. Silence overtook the saloon as the three girls became lost in their thoughts.

********************

Cordelia finished cleaning the floor behind the counter and stood, gasping when she saw someone leaning against the counter. "Graham! You startled me."

Graham smiled slightly, "Sorry, your highness. Completely unintentional."

Cordelia rolled her eyes at his name for her, "Some royalty, mopping floors and cleaning the counters. I would assume that you might be wanting to think of a new cutting nickname, Graham."

Graham watched her move gracefully as she put away the cleaning supplies. He shook his head, "Nope. Even while mopping, you're a princess."

"You're impossible," Cordelia said, avoiding looking at him for too long. Her slight feelings for him had been growing in the weeks she had lived at the Rose. He constantly teased her and would often come over in the early evening hours to check on her. She had practically pushed Willow out of her position at the hotel, knowing that Willow had worked for years and deserved a break. Besides, she wanted to make sure she was earning her room and board that Giles was giving her. Graham had taken over the role of an older brother, not the role she wished he would take in her life.

"I'm truthful," he said quietly, his eyes continuing to watch her. "Doesn't matter if you don't have any money anymore, Princess. It's in the way you carry yourself, so graceful and elegant, in your face, so beautiful that we mere mortal men know we could never have you, in your voice, so soft and sweet....."

Cordelia had found herself staring into his eyes with his words. She unconsciously licked her lips, the sound of his soft words hypnotizing her. She whispered, "Graham...."

Graham suddenly realized what he was saying. He felt a slight blush cross his cheeks as he looked at the floor, "I'm sorry. I'd better go."

Cordelia watched him leave, amazed with how quickly he got out of the room. She put a hand to her chest, feeling the rapid beating of her heart. She sighed, wondering if he could possibly feel even half the depth of emotion for her that she felt for him.

*****

William wandered through the back of the saloon, his eyes searching for Willow. He had just his sire and JB to find the girl. The other two men were going to play cards at one of the gambling rooms down the street, but he had declined the invitation to join them. He knew Angelus had wanted to stay to check on Willow also, but his sire had chosen to allow him time alone with their redhead. He knew she must be in need of someone after finding out, not only about her murdered friend, but about Anya leaving also. He couldn't find her anywhere though. He finally decided to check outdoors, in case she could be there. He smiled in relief when he saw her sitting on the back porch, a washing board in front of her. He opened the door and walked onto the porch. "Evening pet."

Willow looked up, smiling softly when she saw William. "Hello."

He sat down, leaning his back against one of the poles holding the top of the porch up. "A bit late to be washing, isn't it luv?"

Willow laughed, looking at his face bathed in the lights from the saloon and her lamp. He was so very handsome. "I tend to clean when I'm upset. I gathered these things up to just stay busy."

"I heard about Anya," he said quietly, "Hope the chit is all right."

Willow smiled, "Anya's very strong. She had a tough childhood. If she survived that, she can surely survive a trip west."

"I told JB he could count on me and Angelus helping him if he needed it. You know, in capturing those boys that killed your friend," William said, watching her work.

"Thank you," Willow said quietly. She looked at William, her eyes shining with tears, "How could anyone be such a monster? They killed the girls! Anne was named after me. She was just five. And Becky was three. JB said those boys did things to them before they killed them. How could anyone have that much evil inside?"

"I can't answer that, luv," he said softly. He frowned when he realized what she was saying. "You mean, they had relations with the little girls?"

Willow nodded, crying softly, "Yes. The last thing those girls saw before they died was those horrid men killing their family and hurting them so badly. Is it awful of me to say that I want them to die?"

William moved behind her, pulling her against his chest. "It's not awful pet. It's natural. They deserve to suffer for what they've done."

"I'm sorry," she said softly, smiling shyly at him. "I got your shirt all wet."

"It'll dry," he said, leaning down and brushing his lips over hers. He reluctantly pulled away from the kiss, knowing if he didn't stop, he might not. He ran his thumb over her face, wiping away the tears. Looking at the laundry in front of her he smiled, "Why don't you explain to me what you're doing with all these clothes?"

Willow laughed at his curious expression. "You've never done washing before?"

"Luv, where I come from, we have people that do that for us," he reminded her.

She smiled, turning to face the wash. "Well, then, it's about time you learned. This is called water."

"Brat," William said with a smile, moving to sit behind her, his legs on either side of hers. He put his chin on her shoulder as he watched her demonstrate how to wash. He could feel her relaxing as she became focused on the task of teaching him and letting the memories leave her mind for a little while. "What's that stuff? The stuff you poured in there."

"This is called blueing," she said, showing him the bottle. "It keeps things white. Takes out blood real fast. It sort of burns when it gets on your skin but the pain fades. It's the only thing that makes things stay pretty and white though. I'd recommend not using but a little bit and then near the end of the washing."

"All right," he said, watching her hands move quickly in the water. "What's that thing?"

"This is a washing board," she said patiently, smiling at his obvious desire to learn what she was doing. "You use it to make sure everything gets clean."

"Even I know what the soap is," he said with a grin as he watched her add a bit more soap into the water. "So you just wipe them across that thing and scrub a bit then hang them up to dry?"

"That's a quick version, but accurate," she said smiling.

"I bet that gets rather dull after a few things," he mentioned, feeling pity suddenly for the people that worked at such tasks.

"It isn't the most fun, that's for sure," she remarked, "but it's necessary. Would you like to try?"

"Sure," he said, moving his arms to take hold of the shirt she was cleaning. She laughed when he fumbled with the board and he glared at her, "That is not funny."

She smiled, gratitude in her eyes as she looked at him. She had been sitting on the porch feeling sorry for herself when he had found her. Within moments, he had forced her to voice the thoughts going through her mind and then had managed to divert her with teaching him how to wash. She put her hands on his, leaning forward, "No, honey. It's like this."

William tried to ignore the rush of feelings that the slight touch of her hands caused his body. His pants became a bit tighter as he began to follow her instructions, her warm body pressed against his. Their hands moved together as the shirt was washed, his legs brushing against hers, her back against his chest, his mouth so close to hers. He turned his head slightly, brushing his lips against her cheek. "I love you Willow Anne Rosen," he said softly, his voice husky from the emotions he was feeling.

Willow froze when she heard his words. She turned her head, finding his so near. She forgot the shirt as she raised a hand to caress his cheek. She softly whispered, "And I love you, William Devlin."

Upon the completion of her words, his mouth caught hers in a passionate kiss. The shirt slid into the water as their hands moved behind each others head, wet fingers entangled in hair as they continued to kiss on the back porch.

*****

Angelus walked around the back of the saloon, a smile crossing his lips when he saw Willow and William kissing. They were both so beautiful. He moved to sit on the third porch step, not saying anything. He leaned back against the other stairs, looking up at the sky. It was truly peaceful in this town. He glanced back at Willow and William and cleared his throat. He was a patient man, but they might continue to kiss all evening if he didn't say anything.

Willow heard Angelus and smiled as she pulled away from William. She looked at the other man she loved, happiness evident in her eyes. "Did you enjoy your evening, Angelus?"

"Doesn't appear I had as much fun as you two," he said, smiling. "I won a bit of money though, so that was nice."

"Not as nice as kissing Willow," William said.

"I won't dispute the truth in that statement," Angelus said, winking at his childe.

"It's nice to know that I am prized more than money," Willow said loftily, her giggle destroying the seriousness of her tone.

"So, what did you two kids get up to this evening?" Angelus asked.

"I learned how to do washing," William said, smiling. "It's rather fascinating in a way but tedious work."

"Willow, I am amazed. You've managed to get my lazy brother to do some hard work," Angelus said laughing as William glared at him.

William snorted, "Like you should talk, big brother. When is the last day you did any hard work? Oh wait, you never have."

"Boys," Willow said, stopping what she knew would be an amusing yet lengthy argument between them both. "Why don't you tell me about home?"

Angelus stretched out on the stairs, a soft smile crossing his face as he looked at them both. "Home? Well, it's wonderful. At night you can see the stars for miles. Everyone I love is there which makes it even better. There's a river that runs through the town that fills the air around it with a gentle sound."

William smiled, taking up the description, "It can quite lively at times but it never gets overwhelming. A wide variety of people ride along the streets, some staying some going." He brushed her hair away from her face, seeing the soft smile on her lips. "I met the woman that I love there so in my opinion there is no other place better."

"It sounds lovely," Willow said, her eyes widening slightly. "Wait a minute. You're talking about Harrington, aren't you?"

"You asked about home," Angelus said quietly, "William's right though. It's where we met the woman that we love. To us, where ever you are is home Willow."

Willow smiled, "I love you both so much."

Angelus smiled, "Couldn't be as much as we love you."

"Yes it could," she argued.

William laughed, "Now, children. Why don't we just agree that we are all in love and leave it at that?"

"All right," Willow agreed smiling.

"Would you like to take a walk, Willow?" Angelus asked, holding out his hand to her. She nodded as she took it.

William stood, telling them, "I think I'll let you two enjoy the night. I'll be in the Rose."

Angelus smiled at his childe, "Thank you William."

"I owed you," William said, smiling before he turned to enter the saloon.

*****

"Who is that beautiful goddess?"

Faith looked up and followed the direction JB's finger. She smiled, laughing softly. "That, my dear man, is Drusilla Devlin. Isn't she lovely?"

"She's like the others," JB said.

"Yes, she's a vampire. She's the only one that knows we know," Faith said. "She's become dear friends with Willow."

"She's enchanting," JB said.

"Keep those thoughts to yourself. She isn't like that," Faith said.

"Oh, you." JB rolled his eyes, "I was just appreciating her beauty. I would assume that if I dare even think those thoughts I would have three very angry vampires to deal with."

"Actually, she is enchanting. She makes me feel safe, for some strange reason," Faith said, shrugging. "Something in her manner and tone that just seems so peaceful."

"I can't wait to meet her," JB said, watching the beautiful girl look around the room. She spotted Faith and smiled, her eyes lighting up. "How have I been here four days and never met her?"

"She likes staying in her room. She rarely goes out unless she is with Willow," Faith said. "She never leaves the Rose without her brothers or Willow."

"Faith!" Drusilla smiled at the girl. She frowned, "I am so sorry that Anya left. She was scared."

"Yeah, I think she was," Faith said. "Dru, this a friend of Willow's. JB. JB, meet Drusilla Devlin."

"It's a pleasure," Drusilla said, smiling at the man. She took his hand, looking into his eyes. She could see the secrets he kept there and smiled sadly. Such a good soul. He had not had a good life.

"I like your brothers, Miss Devlin," JB said, fidgeting under the scrutiny of her stare. "Would you like to sit?"

She smiled, "I am looking for my Willow."

"She should be back soon," Faith said, smiling. "She and your brothers went to eat at the Morningstar."

Drusilla smiled, "Then I shall sit and wait for them." She sat down, arching her head to the side slightly as if she was listening to something.

"They shouldn't be long," JB said, "They left over an hour ago."

"Is something wrong?" Faith asked Dru.

Dru smiled, looking at the girl. Two heartbeats, one very faint. She decided it would be better not to mention anything yet. From the faintness of one, it would be many many more months before a child was born. Oh, she was going to be an auntie. She shook her head, "Not at all. Everything is perfect."

Faith smiled, leaning forward, "Did you hear that they finally told her they loved her?"

Drusilla nodded, "Yes. She told me that she and Angelus took a walk by the river, silent except the beating of her heart and the sound of the river. She said not a word was spoken, yet she knew everything he wanted to say."

Faith sighed, "That is so romantic. And William learned how to do the washing. He must really love her."

JB had to laugh, "I believe I am learning too much about what you girls talk about when alone. Have you forgotten that I am not one of the girls?"

"Of course not," Faith said, "We've just accepted you. Don't worry. Graham and Giles often have to listen to us chatter."

"As do my brothers," Drusilla said, smiling softly. "But, we are leaving you out. Tell me about yourself, JB."

"What would you like to know?" JB asked, seeing what Faith meant about the calmness Drusilla could bring to a person.

"Tell me whatever you would like me to know," Drusilla said, smiling.

*****

"I can't believe she's gone," Xander said again, slurring his words.

"It's going to be OK, Xander," Willow said softly. She sighed, hating see him like this. He had just made it to town, only to find out that Anya had left four days before. He had been drinking all evening. "Come on. Let's get you into a room and settled for the night."

"No, I gotto go home," he said, standing and grabbing the table as he almost fell.

Willow almost smiled, having had several months without having to go through this. Angelus or William had always been around to assist Xander in going upstairs. Tonight, they had gone with JB to play cards because she needed to get some work done at the hotel. They had gone reluctantly, but she had finally been able to get them to go have fun instead of waiting for her to finish her work. Luckily, she had handled Xander Harris plenty of times before they had arrived. "Xander, you need to rest before going home. What would your Pa say if you came stumbling in like this?"

"You're right," Xander said, taking Willow's arm. "You're always right. Why did she leave me, Wills? I love her."

"I can't answer that, Xander," Willow said, walking with him towards the stairs. "She might be back."

"No," he said quietly. "There's nothing here she wants. She won't be back."

Willow grabbed a key to an extra room, smiling softly at Cordelia. "I'm going to help Xander upstairs. If Angelus or William come back, send them up."

"Do you need some help?" Cordelia asked.

"Nah, I'm used to this," Willow said, starting up the stairs. "Come on, Xan. Let's get you to bed."

"OK Wills," he said, climbing the stairs with her. He continued to talk about Anya, wanting to know why she couldn't just let him love her.

******************

"You heard any news about them Clay boys?" Angelus asked JB.

"No sir. Last sight of them was shortly after Molly and her family was killed. They were headed this direction," JB said.

"Do you think they got knowledge about being hunted?" William asked as he put a card down.

"The Clays have been hunted for the past four years. They don't seem to think they'll ever get caught," JB said. Shaking his head, he added, "They never do."

"Sound like lovely people," William said dryly.

"Not as bad as some I've come across," JB said. "But they're bad. I won't flinch at killing them."

"Some sort of personal mission, huh?" Angelus said.

"You could say that," JB said. "Redemption for some big fuck ups."

"Now, that, I understand," William said, laughing. "I'm out. You boys keep playing."

"Going to check on your woman?" JB asked, laughing.

"If she was yours, you wouldn't stay away from her for long either," William said, winking at Angelus. "You coming?"

"Not yet. I think I may win this round." Angelus said. "I'll be there soon."

"Give Rose my love," JB said, looking at his cards as he took a drink.

"Sorry, J. I'll be too busy giving her my love," William said, smiling as he walked out of the building.

*****

Willow sat on her balcony, looking at the stars. It was a nice night, the air cooler than it had been the week before. She figured it would be snowing by the end of the month. She heard a noise and glanced into her dark room. She saw the door open and someone walked inside. "Angelus?"

William walked onto her balcony, a frown on his face. "No, it's me."

"William," she smiled, seeing his face in the moonlight. "Sorry, you and Angelus look a lot alike in the dark."

"We do?" he sat on the ground beside her, brushing his lips against her cheek.

"You're both almost the same height and you're both dark," she explained. "I know the difference after a moment, but yeah, at first glance I mistake the two of you once in awhile."

"I didn't know that, luv," he said, not minding being confused with his sire, but knowing it might get to be annoying once they claimed her.

"It's ok," she said, smiling. "So, did you win any money?"

"No. I am a terrible gambler. I don't win anything," he said, whining to make her laugh.

Willow laughed, imagining his lips formed in a pout. "Poor baby. Did you lose a lot?"

"Nothing important or that can't be replaced," he said, pulling her against his chest.

"It's gonna snow soon," she said, sighing softly. "I love the snow. It's so beautiful."

"Yes, it is," he said in agreement. "I love the cold."

"You'll love it here in a few weeks then," she said smiling.

"Did you get to eat tonight?" he asked, not used to not dining with her each evening.

"No, actually, I didn't. Xander came in and I had to tell him about Anya," Willow sighed softly. "He didn't take it well, as we expected."

"Poor bloke," William said, feeling for the human. "I'll got get you something to eat."

"I can come down," Willow said, not really wanting to move from the comfort of the blanket and pillow.

"No, you're comfortable here. Besides, Angelus will here soon. He was coming over after the game ended," William said, standing. "I'll go fix you something. Just relax."

"Thank you," she said, smiling at him.

William went down the stairs, going to the kitchen from the back of the hotel. He started to make her something to eat, still thinking of her inability to tell him and his sire apart in the dark. He loved his sire and really had no problems if someone confused them. But, he couldn't help the image of him taking her and her saying his sire's name instead of his. He groaned, cursing himself for those thoughts. He turned, counting slowly to take his mind off the ridiculous direction his thoughts were going. He noticed the washing board on the floor, wondering what daft chit had left it out. He moved, picking it up and putting it in its proper place. His eyes caught on the bottle of blueing that was next to the soap. He suddenly smiled, an idea coming into his mind.

****************

Willow laughed as Angelus finished telling her about the night of gambling. "So, you won."

"Yeah," he said. "JB was pretty ticked."

"He likes to win," Willow said, shaking her head.

"So do I," Angelus remarked. "Where did William go for that food? I've been here at least half an hour already."

"Maybe he got sidetracked," Willow said. She heard the door, "Speak of the devil."

"And the devil shall appear," William finished, looking at her nervously.

Willow's mouth dropped open as she looked at him. She stood, moving to run her hand through his hair. "What did you?"

William shrugged, "How does it look? I couldn't see."

"It's," Willow smiled, "different. I like it."

Angelus looked at his childe, his dark eyes frozen on the almost white hair that now topped William's head. "How?"

"Blueing," William said, thrilled that Willow liked it. "It doesn't just whiten sheets and such."

"You look handsome," Willow said, knowing why he had done it. She loved him so very much. "It brings out the color of your eyes."

"What do you think?" William asked his sire, his eyes unreadable as he waited.

Angelus wasn't sure why his childe had wanted to change the color of his hair, but he assumed there was some reason. He studied William, a slow smile crossing his lips, as he gave the approval his childe needed. "I like it."

William smiled, sitting down and pulling Willow onto his lap. "I brought food."

"Great," Willow said, "I'm starving."

The three of them settled onto the blanket as Willow began to eat the food that William had brought. Their gentle laughter and voices echoed in the night.

***** "Like the hair," Faith said, smiling at William as he entered the room. Willow had already told them about the coloring of his hair and his reasons behind it. Those boys loved Willow something fierce.

"Thanks," William said, smiling as he moved to sit beside Willow at the table. He kissed her softly, not caring that people were around. "Evening pet."

"Evening William," she said, looking over at Angelus as he walked into the saloon. She lifted her head, meeting his lips in a soft kiss. "Angelus."

"It's rather quiet in here," Angelus said, glancing around.

"It's early yet," Giles said, watching the men with his daughter. "I like the hair change, William."

"Thank you sir," William said, taking a seat.

"If you keep telling him how nice he looks, he's going to become more arrogant than he already is," Angelus said.

"Oh, not that," JB said laughing.

"Real funny," William said, glaring at them.

"Just ignore them," Buffy told him, envying the love her friend had. "They'll grow tired of their teasing soon enough."

"Oh, Graham escorted Cordelia to the store today," Willow said, giggling.

"I think I shall take my leave on that note," Giles said, brushing a kiss against his daughter's forehead. "I shall see you in the morning."

"Night Dad," she said, watching him walk away. Since he had gotten so seriously involved with Faith, he had started to let her watch the Rose during the later hours and he had started getting up earlier to help Graham with the day to day running of the saloon. Cordelia and Willow had basically taken over running the hotel.

"Is anyone hungry?" Faith asked, "I'm starving."

"Yeah, I'd like to eat before we get more crowded," Buffy said.

"Willow needs to eat," William said, smiling slightly as the redhead glared at him.

"I can speak for myself," Willow said, laughing as she looked at Faith. "I need to eat."

Angelus laughed, putting his arm around the back of her chair. "Is there any pie?"

"I'm sure they could rustle some up for you, handsome," Faith said, winking at him.

"Oooh, I'd like some too," William said. He wasn't really fond of human food, but he loved sweets.

"I'd like a nice, big steak," JB said.

"Rosa," Faith called out. A dark haired petite girl came over. Faith smiled at her, "Can you tell the kitchen we need four steak dinners and two..no three slices of pie. I could use one myself."

"Yes, Miss Faith," Rosa said, smiling at the table as she headed to the kitchen.

"Hungry aren't you?" Willow said, looking at her friend.

"Yes," Faith said, smiling.

"Cards tonight?" JB asked, looking at the Devlins.

"Willow wants to play too," Angelus said.

"Ah, damn," JB whined. "She always wins."

"Ahem," Riley cleared his throat, flinching as Buffy glared at him. "Marshal Hickoc?"

JB sighed, "I've told you Deputy Finn, I resigned my position as Marshal. It's just JB now."

"Uh, sorry," Riley said, fidgeting under the older man's cold stare.

"What did you need, deputy?" JB drawled, shuffling the deck of cards.

"I'm surprised your Mother let you out this early," Buffy said somewhat snidely.

JB started to laugh, looking at the pretty girl, he winked and said, "Darlin' if he ain't given you what you need, you know where my room is."

"I already memorized it," Buffy said, smirking as Riley's eyes narrowed.

"Buffy, can I speak to you?" Riley asked, his voice tense.

"Speak, no one is stopping you," she said, leaning back in the chair.

"Privately," he said.

"Sorry, my friends don't like me to be alone with you," she said, smiling at the flash of annoyance in his eyes.

"Buffy, please," he said.

"Why don't you sit down, have a steak and play some cards, Deputy?" JB said, kicking out an empty chair for the man. He had seen the stubborn look in Buffy's eyes and knew the deputy would be standing a long while before he got a private audience with the girl.

"Of course, Marshal Hickok," Riley said, "I mean, JB."

"Lay your money on the table, girls and boys. It's time for me to win it," JB said, starting to deal the cards.

*****

"Any word from her?" Xander asked quietly.

Willow shook her head, "I'm sorry."

"Not your fault," Xander said, shrugging. "She made her choice. Just hope she's all right."

"I'm sure she is fine," Willow reassured him. "Anya can take care of herself."

"So, how are the Deadboys?" Xander asked, changing the subject before he got depressed.

"Shh, not so loud," Willow said, laughing. "They are both fine. Trying to get used to William's new hair, but he looks nice with it that color."

"I can't believe he'd put his hair in bluing just so you wouldn't confuse him and Angelus," Xander said, laughing. "It must be love."

"It is," Willow said with a smile.

"You're happy?" Xander asked his old friend, knowing the answer just by the shining in her eyes and smile that was always on her face.

"Very happy," she said. She sighed softly, "I just wish my friends could be as happy as I am."

"Maybe one day," Xander said, taking a drink. "Stranger things have happened."

"True," Willow said. "I fell in love with two European vampires after all."

"You always have liked to do things differently than anyone else," Xander said, smiling. Anya had been gone for over a week now. No one had heard anything from her, and he knew in his heart that they wouldn't. She was gone, closing this chapter in her life. He still loved her though, knowing that her running wouldn't change that. "Just one reason we love you."

"You staying here tonight?" Willow asked, glancing out the door and seeing the sunlight still beaming down.

"Nah, I'd better get home. Pa is threatening to disown me if I don't get home and help with the chores. This will probably be the last time you see more until next week," he said, taking another drink.

"Tell your Father I said hello," she said, "and your step mother too."

"Will do," Xander said, getting to his feet. He brushed his lips against Willow's cheek. "Take care, Wills."

"You too," she said watching him leave. She heard a yawn and turned to see JB walking into the room. "Hey you."

"Rose, don't you look a beautiful site this morning," he said, moving to the bar and getting a whiskey.

"It's actually late afternoon, lazy bones," she said with a smile.

"I was up late last night," he said, sitting down opposite her. "That Drusilla Devlin is a right good listener."

"Yes, she is," Willow said.

"I feel a lot better today," he confessed, his initial attraction to the vampire having faded as he had realized she made a better friend than conquest.

"I'm glad. You deserve to be happy," Willow said, taking a sip of water.

"I don't deserve anything near that nice, but I won't turn it down," JB said, knowing his past destroyed any true chance of happiness.

"You do too, but I won't waste my breath arguing with you," Willow said, knowing how futile that would be. "Heard anything about them boys?"

"A bit," JB said. "Seems they've split up. Two of them headed West while the other two are supposed to be in this area. Heard rumor they were up around Kinsley trying to recruit some boys."

"So, two in the area? Kinsley is North though. If they were headed here, wouldn't they be here by now?"

"I don't know for sure they're coming to Harrington. Just know it is the general area. Figured if they strike, this would be central enough to go after them pretty quick like," JB said, taking a drink.

"You're gonna make them pay for Molly, aren't you?" Willow asked.

"You bet," he said, knowing it took a lot for the girl to wish harm on someone. But, the Clay boys and their gang deserved it. Hell, they deserved the worst that he could think about.

"Good," she smiled as she stood. "I'm going to go on upstairs to meet Angelus and William. They'll be awake soon."

"See you later, Rose," JB said, pouring more whiskey into his glass. "Give the boys my regards."

*****

Willow smiled as she watched Angelus toss rocks into the river. They were having another picnic at Xander's river, them having suprised her somehow with a full meal and dessert. She had already eaten, and they were now just sitting and watching the stars. Well, she and William were. Angelus had excused himself to play with rocks. She knew he was just giving her time alone with William. She had noticed that one or the other of her young men would excuse himself most evenings for just a short time. It was their way of giving her time with each of them, she knew. They would always do caring things like that. She looked at William's profile, a soft smile on her face.

"What?" he asked, his eyes on the sky. He could feel her watching him. He glanced at her, raising an eyebrow. "Is there something on my face?"

"No," she said, not at all embarassed at being caught observing him. "You are so very handsome. That is all."

He smiled at her words, "So that is why you are here with me, eh? You think I have a pretty face."

She smiled, "Of course. What other reasons could there be?"

"Well, good," he said, "because I am only here with you because you are the most beautiful woman that I have met."

She laughed, "Now you are lying to me. Surely in all your years, you have met far more beautiful women than I."

"Ah, many men would think so. But, their beauty was only here," he ran his hand over her cheek, smiling as he heard her heart begin to race at the gentle contact, "that beauty fades, my luv. You not only have beauty there, but in your soul...in your heart. That true beauty never fades."

"Oh," she said simply, not able to form words to respond to his statement.

"There is something I must tell you," he continued, glancing at Angelus.

Willow followed the gesture and saw him look at the dark haired vampire. "Angelus can not hear it?"

"He doesn't wish to hear it," William said softly. "He fears what your reaction shall be, so he walks alone rather than see disgust or hatred in your eyes."

"You're frightening me, William," she said quietly. "What are you trying to tell me? Are you leaving? Oh, God...anything but that."

"No, we have no plans to leave Harrington," William clarified, tightening his hold on her hand. His doubts were the same as his sire's, he had to admit. It had been planned for Angelus to tell her the truth because William feared seeing fear in her eyes...feared losing her. The plan had changed during their picnic as she had been eating. He had seen the raw fear in his sire's eyes and knew that he would be unable to voice the truth while looking into her pretty face. He and Angelus had spent many an afternoon laying in bed and discussing the best way to confess their true nature to Willow. They had been planning to admit it for weeks, but each time the day neared, one or the other would think of a reason to wait. Now, though, she needed to know. If they were to have a future with her, she had to understand the truth.

"Then what is it?" she demanded, scared of the severity in his tone.

"It is difficult to explain really. Please, hear me out and listen to what I say. I promise you that I am not insane," he said softly, keeping her hand in his as his other hand moved to caress her face. It might be the last time he was allowed to touch her and he wanted to memorize the feel of her skin under his.

"William, please," she said, wondering why he was having such difficulty in speaking when he was usually so eloquent.

"My family, Drusilla, Angelus and I, we are vampires," he said so softly she barely could hear the words.

She waited, expecting more. When he did not say anything, just continued to look at her, she laughed, "That was what you wished me to know?"

"I'm being serious here, Willow," he said, not understanding her relief and amusement. He saw Angelus stop and look towards them, confusing evident on his handsome face.

"Silly, I've known that for months," she said, laughing. "I was so worried. With your tone of voice, I honestly expect some horrific news."

"You've known that we are vampires?" Angelus asked quietly, having come back to see why she was laughing.

"I am not stupid, Angelus Devlin," she said, scolding him playfully. "I believe that all of my family is aware of your unusual traits. It does not change who you are, so why should it bother me anymore than my being an orphan would bother you?"

"There is quite a difference there, luv," William said, amazed at her.

"Wait, all of them know?" Angelus said, moving to sit on the blanket.

"Of course," Willow smiled, bringing her hand up to caress his cheek. "They still care about you."

William had to laugh, "To think we have been so worried about how you would take the news. And here you all of have known all along."

"Men are often times not very intelligent about things like this," Willow said, her tone amused.

"Oh, we aren't are we?" Angelus said, laughing. "I suppose we aren't."

"They shall all be happy that you have both confessed it finally. Continuing to act ignorant of the truth in your presence was rather tiring at times," Willow confessed.

"We shall never again put you in such a position," William promised, a small smile crossing his lips. "God, how I love you."

"As I love you," she responded, including Angelus in her look. Her expression softened as she continued, "And I shall trust you both not to conceal the truth from me in the future."

"As we shall trust you to always come to us with anything that is bothering you," Angelus said, running his fingers over her hand. "If we had known how bothersome it was for you, we would have confessed it immediately."

"It was nothing," Willow said, laughing. "I can understand how the truth might be rather awkward in general conversation. Now, it is over and done. No more secrets exist between us. Correct?"

"Actually," William said quietly. "We are not related. Angelus is both my and Drusilla's sire. We travel as relations because of moral ideas of most mortals."

"I know," Willow said simply, having already dealt with and accepted the knowledge that Angelus and William were lovers. "Drusilla and I already spoke about that last month, I believe."

"Dru knows that you know the truth?" William said, deciding he was going to ring his sister's pretty little neck.

"She must have been rather amused at the agony with which William and I debated how to tell you the truth," Angelus said, planning to pay his daughter a visit to remind her the fault in not telling him the truth.

"You shall not touch her," Willow warned, a stubborn look that they knew all too well crossing her face. "I begged her to remain silent despite her desire to let you know. If I can accept that the two of you are lovers, you can forgive her for keeping my secret."

"Yes, well, fine then," William said, startled that she had sounded so blase about his and Angelus' true relationship. "It does not bother you? Me and Angelus...."

"Of course not," she said frowning. "If this relationship between the three of us continues as I believe it shall, well, it might makes things easier."

William smiled as he watched her courage falter slightly when discussing their future. He could feel her embarassment at discussing the subject and decided to take pity on her. "I love you Willow Anne Rosen."

*****

"I love you," William repeated, smiling at her.

"Did we not already say that a few moments ago?" Willow asked, thankful that he was not going to force her into discussing the three of them becoming lovers.

"I can never say it enough," he responded with a smile.

"Nor can I," Angelus remarked lazily. "We do not deserve you, my love."

"No, you do not," she said, smiling. "But, you've got me."

"I do love you," Angelus said, knowing he did not speak the words nearly as often or as easily as William. He was rather private about such emotions, content to demonstrate rather than vocalize his love. But, he knew that Willow was a young girl. She needed to hear the words until he could demonstrate their truth.

"And I love you," she said again, "both of you."

William leaned over, brushing his lips against hers softly. He whispered, "God, how I want to marry you," before claiming her lips more forcefully. His hand moved to her hair, his fingers twisting the long red strands as he deepened the kiss. He was happy that she had not pulled away in disgust at his whispered words, and took that as a sign that maybe she was ready to accept his proposal. He knew he should wait longer, as Angelus suggested. Tonight had been the night she was to find out their true identity. He had had no plans to propose. Yet, he was not a very patient man. It was more and more difficult to take her back to her room and leave her alone with just a chaste kiss. He wanted her, needed her. He wanted to claim her in the eyes of the mortals that knew her. To be able to hold her and kiss her without worrying of her reputation. And it was more than just moving the physical side of their relationship further. Each day, she amazed him more and more. He wanted her to wear his ring, for all to know that she was taken. And, yes, he could admit it to himself, he wanted to belong to her also. He pulled away from the kiss, glancing at Angelus and tilting his head slightly as he thought of what he should do...what choice would be the best for her.

Angelus saw the turmoil in William's eyes and could guess what some it concerned. He sighed, leaning over and claiming Willow's lips tenderly. He knew William was having a private debate and did not need his encouragement or doubts. He had known all along that William would be Willow's husband when the time came. He would allow it, knowing that she could only marry one in the eyes of her kind. But, he and William had already discussed the ceremony needed to bond them for their kind. It was then, in that important ceremony, that she would be joined with them both. That was what mattered most to him. Being bonded with her for all of his kind to recognize.

William made his decision, a small smile on his face as he put his hand on Angelus' shoulder. Angelus pulled away from Willow, nodding his consent as he saw William's eyes. William took Willow's hand, looking into her pretty face. "I had no plans to do this this evening. I was honestly afraid that this would be the night we lost you. The night you heard the truth and turned away from us both."

"I could never turn away from you," Willow said softly, her lips wet and slightly swollen from the two deeps kisses she had just received.

"I realize that now," William said, brushing her hair away from her face. He stood, pulling her to her feet. He could see the curiosity in her eyes as she watched him, trying to understand what he was doing. He knelt in front of her, his hand still holding hers. He looked into her face, seeing the disbelief and happiness in her eyes. "I love you, Willow. Would you do me the honor of becoming my wife?"

"Huh?" Willow said softly, knowing this must be a dream. They had finally confessed to her that they were vampires and now William was proposing. This only happened in her dreams.

"Will ye marry me, luv?" William asked again, his expression slightly nervous and fearful.

"Yes," she whispered as a tear slid down her cheek. She glanced at Angelus and saw his pleased smile and then looked back at William, memorizing how his face looked in the moonlight. She saw him smile as he got to his feet quickly, his mouth claiming hers.

"I love you so much, Will," he said between kisses. "I have a ring at the hotel. It was my mother's...one of the only things I have from before I was turned. It is real simple, just a silver band with a small sapphire setting. If you don't like it, we could get you another."

"I'm sure it is perfect," she said, touched that he wanted her to have his mother's ring. She felt silly for crying but couldn't help it.

William smiled, kissing her again. He was thrilled that she had said yes. For a brief moment, he had been scared she would not accept him. He had never felt happier than when she had whispered that simple three letter word. He pulled away again, beaming at an amused Angelus. "I'm getting married, sire."

"Yes, I do believe I heard," Angelus said, leaning over to kiss Willow. "Congratulations Willow. I do hope you know what you are getting into."

"I'll you around to help me," she said with a smile, looking at William as he practically bounced with excitement. She laughed when he yelled at the trees that she had said yes. "He's crazy!"

"Only about you, pet," William responded, taking her in his arms and twirling around the clearing. He laughed as they stumbled onto the picnic blanket. "You don't have any idea how happy you have made me."

"As happy as you made me, no doubt," she said, kissing him softly.

Angelus suddenly stopped smiling, sniffing the air. "Do you smell that?"

Willow pulled away from William, sitting up. She sniffed the air, her smile fading. "It smells like smoke."

"Something's burning," William said, getting to his feet. Suddenly, in the still night air, three shots rang out in the distance.

"What was gunshots!" Willow said, moving to William's side. "What's going on?"

"Come on, let's get out of here," Angelus said, a frown on his face as he began to pack up the remainder of the picnic hurriedly. He wanted to get Willow back to the Rose where she would be safe.

"I'm with you," William said, helping his sire pack the basket. He glanced at Willow and saw her looking into the dark night sky towards the North. She suddenly looked at him, her face pale. "What is it, pet?"

Willow shook her head, "Come on. We have to go!"

"Willow?" Angelus looked at her in surprise. She was racing to the wagon, her eyes still looking to the North.

"Hurry! I have to go check and see!" she said, fear in her voice. "That's where Xander lives. Oh God, he's got to be all right."

"Harris," Angelus rememberd, cursing himself for having forgotten the boy lived in that direction. Gunshots and a fire. He moved quickly, as did William. They both rather liked the mortal, knowing that he was one of Willow's best friends. With Anya having left, they had gotten to know him rather well over the past weeks.

"He's fine, pet. I'm sure of it. He's a brave one, that pup is," William said, holding her in his arms as she shook.

"Just hurry. I have to help him," she whispered, her engagement forgotten as fear for her friend took over her heart.

*****

Willow watched as the smoke got closer. She leaned against William, his arms around her in comfort as she watched the horizon. She had a horrible feeling that was not lightening up as they neared the Harris home and grounds. She rested her head against William's shirt, his coat concealing part of her face as Angelus urged the horses to go as fast as possible. Willow knew the poor horses were being pushed, but they had been by the river, several miles from the main house and barns. The gunshots had been close, but she knew from experience that they too had been several miles away, which only heightened her fear that Xander and his family were hurt. She cried out softly when they rounded the trees and she saw the burning barns. "Oh God..."

Angelus sniffed the air, the scent of blood thick in the cool crisp breeze. He glanced at William and saw that his childe also recognized the scent. "Maybe we should stop here. William and I can continue on to see what is wrong."

"What is it?" she asked, knowing them well enough to know they were keeping something from her.

"Pet, please, just stay here," William said softly, his eyes searching the night for signs of life. He saw none. He caught her face and put his finger to her lips before she could protest. "I can't survive if you were hurt. We have no idea what happened here, and I am not going to lose you."

"William, I have to go. He's one of my dearest friends. If he's dead..." her words caught as she batted away tears. "I have to know. I can not simply wait here patiently not knowing what is happening."

"Willow, it's dangerous," Angelus said, his eyes glancing at her before looking back at the bright fire of the barn.

"Angelus, I've lived in this element my entire life. This is no more dangerous than walking through the streets during round up. I am going," she said again, her voice determined.

"You are not leaving my side," William said, kissing her roughly to prove his point.

Angelus kept his eyes on the scene ahead of them as he steered the horses towards the house. He stiffened when his eyes caught sight of a man hanging from a tree, a rope around his neck and blood dripping from his chest. He heard Willow's gasp and glanced at her, his eyes sad that she had to see such things.

"That's Richie Johnson, Mr. Harris' hired man. He helped out around her in exchange for lodging and food," Willow whispered, her eyes looking at his unseeing gaze. She looked ahead of them as the fire continued to burn. "Keep going. I have to see Xander...see if he's dead or alive."

Angelus continued driving the horses closer to the house. Finally, he stopped the wagon and got out. He looked around, straining to hear even the faintest heartbeat. He could hear nothing. "I'll check the house. Keep her safe."

William nodded, following Willow out of the wagon. He saw a man's boot beside the house and moved towards it. He glanced around the side and saw the rest of the man, his face having been beaten bloody. He felt Willow's grasp of his hand tighten as she whispered, "That's Mr. Harris...Xander's Pa."

"He's gone, honey," William whispered softly, taking her into his arms and simply holding her. He felt Angelus and glanced up, seeing the disgust in his sire's eyes as he looked at the scene around them.

"There's a woman," Angelus said, looking into Willow's tear covered eyes. "She's been...she was...she's dead."

"Must be Xander's step mother," Willow whispered, holding on tighter to William. She what Angelus had not said, knew what Xander's mother had gone through before dying.

"Saw no sign of Xander though," Angelus said, looking towards the burning barn instinctively.

"He's alive," Willow said, her voice stronger than her body seemed. "I'd know it if he were dead."

"We'll look," William said, walking with them towards the burning barn. He could smell the scent of burning animal flesh and grimaced. And people called him and his kind monsters? They had never done anything near as devestating as this. They had three dead humans already, one raped repeatedly before her death. He noticed a man tied to a tree, an ax in his stomach. He was obviously dead, and by the signs of it, William hoped he had died quickly. "Luv, don't look that way."

Willow allowed William to steer her away from what ever had caused him to stiffen. She sighed, "Does he have gray hair or brown?"

"It's brown," Angelus said softly.

"Must be Bobby Monroe. Xander told me he had been helping out the past couple of weeks for some extra money. He was intending to marry Alice Stevens from over in Coffman. That leaves Barry Simmons and Xander left to find." Willow said, her voice resigned.

"We heard shots," Angelus said, a thoughtful look on his face as they moved past the burning barn. "I haven't seen anyone yet that was shot."

"Do you think Xander could possibly be alive?" Willow asked so quietly they barely heard her.

"Of course," William said, hugging her tightly. "He's a strong chap. If anyone could survive, he could."

*****

"I think I found Mr. Simmons," Angelus said softly, looking at the dead man.

"Why would someone do this? What could possibly be inside them to make them kill and torture like this?" Willow asked, knowing that there was no true answer.

"I don't know luv," William said, having wondered that himself. At least he and his kind had demons that they had to deal with daily. Controlling a demon was not easy, but it was part of their lives that they dealt with daily. What excuse did these humans have? He knew without a doubt that they were indeed humans. There was no left over scent from demons or vampires in the air. Just the putrid smell of evil humans. He stiffened, hearing something in the air. "Do you hear that?"

Angelus nodded, looking towards the trees. "It's faint, but it's there."

"What?" Willow asked.

"A heartbeat, pet," William answered, gesturing to the trees.

She felt a flicker of hope and pulled away from him. She ran into the trees, ignoring their warnings. She saw him and gasped, falling to her knees beside him. She took his hand, thankful that it was still warm. "Xander? Honey can you hear me?"

"He's barely alive, luv," William said, kneeling behind her. He hugged her tightly, "Don't ever leave me like that again."

"I'm sorry," she whispered, looking at him before looking back at Xander. "Will he live?"

Angelus inspected the bullet wounds, and looked at them. "I don't know. It seems one went straight through but the other one is still in there. It's close to his heart, love. I'm afraid moving him will be more dangerous than simply waiting."

"It's in there still?" she said softly, "Can't you get it out?"

Angelus shook his head, "I'd do more damage than leaving it. I've never been trained in such things."

William sighed, "Go get me the knife from the basket, Peaches. I think I can get it out."

Willow watched him stand and take off his coats. He rolled his sleeves up as Angelus came back with a lantern and the knife. She watched, her hand still holding Xander's. In the light, she was able to see a man that she did not recognize laying dead beside the trees. "There is where the other bullet went. Xan got one of them."

"Good for him," William said, holding the knife blade of the fire in the lantern.

"Do you know what you're doing?" she asked softly.

He nodded, his eyes clouding over slightly before he turned his attention back to the knife. Angelus moved behind Willow, resting his chin on her shoulder. "William learned medical during the war, when he was human. He doesn't like talking about that time, love. None of us like to remember what it was like when we were alive."

Willow nodded, another layer added to the mystery of her loves. William was involved in a medical until during a war. She wondered which war. She knew she would never find out, realizing what it must be doing to him to have to practice a skill he had been taught all those years ago when he was human. She loved him so much for trying. "Do your best, William. I love you."

"Love you too, pet," he said before placing the heated knife into the bullet wound and beginning the task of trying to dislodge the bullet without hitting something vital. He worked for nearly half an hour, listening with a trained ear to the ragged breathing and faint heartbeat. Finally, he located the bullet and removed it, tossing it on the ground beside the boy. He took the blanket that Angelus had been insightful enough to bring and ripped several long pieces off. He used them to wrap the wounds, watching as the blood quickly soaked them again. He looked at Willow and shrugged, "I got the bullet out but the rest is up to him. He might live, he might not. He's lost a lot of blood, but the other wound was more shallow, the bullet went right through his shoulder. This one could hurt him, but I've seen men pull through far worse."

Willow stood and went towards William, hugging him tightly as he hugged her back. She didn't care if his hands were covered in blood. He had tried to save her friend. To her, that was all that was important. She kissed him deeply, pulling away and smiling softly, "I do love you, William Devlin. And I'm going to be proud to be your wife."

William smiled, "Not as proud as I'll be to be your husband, Willow Rosen. We can move him and I'd recommend getting him to the Rose as soon as possible. More chances he'll get infected out here in the open."

Angelus moved forward and lifted the boy, careful of the wrappings against his arm and chest. He carried him to the wagon and laid him inside, watching as Willow was helped into the back to sit with him. He went to William, glancing at his childe. "You all right?"

William smiled, shaking off memories of a time when he had saved people daily and nodded, "Yeah. Let's go, sire." He got into the back of the wagon and moved beside Willow, his careful eyes watching the chest wound for signs of a problem as the wagon started back towards town. Willow looked at the dying fire of the barn and sighed, knowing somehow that some things would never be the same again.

*****

"It's getting close to dawn," Faith said, frowning as she looked out the window. She turned, catching Giles eyes. She had woken him up at four, concerned because Willow had not yet returned. It was very rare that the boys ever kept her out past three, usually bringing her in so she could get some sleep and they could feed. Well, Faith assumed they were feeding. They tended to go to one of the other saloons, returning around four. Giles had sent everyone home, telling them that the Rose was closed for the night. He wanted to be ready in case he had to leave to find her.

"This isn't like them at all," Buffy said, her hands wringing the bottom of her skirt as she looked nervously at the clock.

"They're fine," Cordelia said, her hand squeezing Graham's without her knowing it despite her brave words. He just remained silent, hoping that there was an explanation.

"They probably just got sidetracked in the moonlight," JB said, hoping that their wagon hadn't been damaged. Sunlight and vampires did not mix, or so he had heard.

"Carried away by romance?" Faith said, shaking her head. "Nah, Will knows that we'd be worried if she wasn't back by four. She'd never want us to worry."

"They are well, but death looms," Drusilla said softly, entering the saloon. She had been waiting for Willow, usually only able to fall asleep with the girl's warm body near. She had listened to the stars as she had waited, hearing their warning of death's taunts.

"Looms? For Willow?" Faith said, wishing the female vampire made more sense.

"I do not know," Dru replied, moving to sit. "The stars said that they were fine but that death was taunting them."

"I don't like the sound of that," Cordelia said, glancing at Graham for reassurance. Over the past few weeks, they had become good friends. She was still half in love with him, but knew he thought of her as he did Willow, a pesty little sister.

"The stars said they were fine," Graham said, making a slight face as he realized he was actually believing that the stars spoke to the beautiful vampire.

"Maybe I should ride out and take a look see," JB said, getting to his feet. "Just to make sure things are fine."

"They went out to the Harris farm," Buffy said, "but I don't know exactly where. There is a lot of land on the farm."

"Willow likes the spot by the river," Cordelia answered, remembering the girl telling her about the picnics she and her boys had there.

"Ok. The Harris farm by the river," JB repeated. "I'll be back soon."

He started to walk towards the door, moving back as it opened as Willow stumbled in. Her clothes were covered with blood and her eyes were wide and panicked. "Red?"

"Oh God....it was horrible," Willow said, turning to allow Angelus and William into the saloon. "Take him upstairs. He can use Anya's old room. It will be comfortable and familiar to him."

Angelus nodded and started up the stairs. William kissed Willow softly before following, knowing he needed to ensure that the boy was place properly. Willow looked at her friends and laughed, her voice slightly hysterical, "They're all dead. The barns were burned and Xander was shot. William managed to get the bullet out but he said it is now a waiting game. Xan did get one of them though. There was so much blood," she whispered, her knees weakening as she slumped into a chair.

"The Clays," JB said, anger in his tone. They had come right through town and he had missed them. Now, that boy was laying at death's door and others had been murdered.

"Is he going to be ok?" Buffy asked, her voice low.

"I don't know," Willow said, leaning her head onto her arms.

"Come on, honey. We need to get you cleaned up," Giles said, moving to take his daughter's hand. "You're a mess."

"Daddy, it was awful. How could anyone do something like that?" she asked him the same question that she had asked William and Angelus.

"I don't know, sweetie. And in a way, I'm glad that I don't. I don't think I'd like to know what motivates someone into murder and torture like that," Giles said, having heard from JB the more detailed versions of what the Clay gang was capable of.

"We shall help Willow bathe and get cleaned up," Drusilla said softly, moving to the redhead's side. "You will let us know if you hear anything about the boy?"

Giles nodded, watching Faith, Buffy and Cordelia stand to join Drusilla and Willow. "I will. Honey, get some sleep if you can."

"I'll try," Willow said, glancing up the stairs. "Angelus and William will have to remain up there during the day. Too much light down here once the sun comes up. Check on them later for me, ok?"

"I will. Now, go. I'll let you girls know if Xander's condition changes." Giles watched them leave and looked at JB. "What do we do?"

"When it gets light, I'll head out to the Harris place and see if it was the Clays. If so, I'll need to start tracking them. If they just did this, I may be able to catch up with them in a couple of days. They might not suspect being followed so quickly," JB said. "Until then, we wait."

*****

JB stood looking at the burned remains of the Harris barn and sighed. He had found several bodies. One belonging to Adam Clay, middle brother of the Clay gang. He had no doubts that the Clay's were behind the slaughter that had happened here the previous evening. He glanced into the sunlit sky, knowing that they had several hours start on him. One thing working in his favor was their enjoyment at riding at night. Rarely did they ride during the daylight, knowing that they would be recognized much easier in the sun's rays. So, if they had ridden just far enough to get away from Harrington, he might be able to catch them in a couple of days. He could leave soon, and try to track them. He frowned, knowing that if they followed habit, they would divide up so it was impossible to track either group. He cursed, moving back to his horse. He would go back to the Rose and check on the Harris boy. Then, he'd make some inquiries. By dusk, he hoped to be on the trail of the Clay's. Even getting a small group of them would be nice. He knew from experience it was difficult to capture everyone in a gang that size. A small portion though would hurt the overall group and usually forced the remaining members into fleeing into parts farther West. Maybe the Clays could head into the Colorado Territory. Of course, knowing him, he'd probably follow them until either they died or he did. Such was his life.

************

"How is he doing?" Willow asked softly from the doorway.

"His heartbeat is getting stronger. Bleeding seems to have stopped. He still hasn't woken up, which is a bit worrisome," William told her from his position in a small chair beside the bed. "But he has drifted in and out throughout the morning and afternoon. He just won't stay conscious."

"He'll make it," she said, her voice determined. "He's strong."

"Any ideas who it was?" Angelus asked, his voice low.

"JB thinks it is the Clay boys," Willow said. "I would have to agree with him. We don't have a lot of this sort of violence in town. This kind of thing happens in Dodge City or Abilene, but never in Harrington."

"I'm sure they're long gone, luv," William said, taking her hand and pulling her onto his lap. He kissed the top of her head as she snuggled against him.

"JB went to the Harris farm today to see if that man Xander killed was part of their gang or not. He's been gone for hours, so I assume he's searching for clues as to which direction they headed," she explained to them both.

"If anyone can find those bastards, JB can," Faith said from the doorway. She looked at Xander and sighed, "I brought some water for him and a bit of soup. Wasn't sure if he could eat or not."

"He needs to eat, but he won't stay awake long enough to get anything down," William said, glancing at the boy again. "Other than that, I think he might make it."

"Thank God," Giles said, moving behind Faith and putting his arm around her waist. He tightened his hold, realizing that they were very lucky that the Clay boys had gone outside of town to create their destruction. He felt guilty for thinking that, knowing that at least five people lay dead. But, he couldn't help it. He would never wish death on anyone but if it came down between his family or someone else, he would not hesitate in seeing someone die to save his loved ones. He just hated that it had to be Xander. In many ways, the boy was almost a son, though they were not as close as he was to Graham. Xander was Willow and Delia's friend and Anya's suitor. Yet, Giles liked the boy. He had seen intelligence behind that goofy smile. He was glad that he hadn't died.

"I can't make any promises that he won't," William said again, wanting to make sure that they were all aware that this was now a waiting game. "I've seen men with far less injuries die while others far worse have lived."

"We know you've done your best, William," Giles said, grateful that the man had some experience in medicine. Willow had told them about the blond's removal of the bullet and how that had saved Xander's life.

"I'm proud of you, William," Angelus said softly, watching the smile spread over his childe's face.

"So am I, honey," Willow whispered, brushing her lips against his cheek. "It means a lot that you helped him."

"Anything for you, luv," he said softly, gently taking her lips in a tender kiss.

"I think you three can keep things under control here at the moment," Giles said, looking away from where his daughter was being thoroughly kissed. He was glad that she had fallen in love, but he wasn't used to seeing her being that intimate with a man. He knew it was just a kiss, but there was obvious love and emotion behind it. It scared him in a way to know she was growing up. Growing up meant leaving him and the Rose. But, he couldn't keep her a child forever. It was time, he supposed.

William heard Giles voice penetrate the pleasurable daze that kissing Willow always caused. He cursed softly, looking at the older human for a moment. He shooed a confused Willow off his lap and smiled at her, kissing her cheek as he stood. "Mr. Giles, I'd like to speak to you."

"Excuse me?" Giles asked, frowning at the intense look in the blond's eyes. He felt a moment of fear as he remembered that this man was a vampire before he realized that he was being stupid and too bloody human.

"Please, sir?" William asked, not believing how stupid and careless he had been. This could jeopardize everything he had planned for his future.

Giles looked at the others and saw similiar looks of puzzlement in their own eyes that he was sure was reflected in his own. He nodded, "Fine. We can step into the hallway."

"I'd prefer somewhere more private, sir," William said, knowing that what he wished to discuss was personal.

"William, is everything ok?" Willow asked, concern in her tone.

He looked at her and smiled, brushing his fingers across her cheek as he winked. "It's fine, pet. I'll be back before you miss me."

Willow watched her father leave following after William with one last confused look at them. She looked at Angelus and sighed, "Will I ever understand him?"

Angelus smiled as he shook his head, "Not likely."

*****

"May I now ask what this concerns, William?" Giles asked as he sat behind his desk. The blond had insisted on coming to the office that was rarely used. Giles had watched as William had managed to avoid any rays of direct sunlight with a slight smile.

William sat down and looked at the human, a serious expression on his face. "I did something stupid, sir."

"The name is Giles, William. Please use it," Giles said, smiling softly at the man his daughter loved. "Now, tell me what stupid thing you did and how it concerns me?"

"Of course, sir." William sighed, "I did something foolish last night.

"William, please," Giles said, getting a bit worried about the serious look on the vampire's face.

"I asked Willow to marry last night," William said, responding to the man's demand. "I was so bloody impatient that I forgot to ask you for permission. I am so sorry sir. Please don't hold that against me. She just looked so beautiful in the moonlight and I couldn't stop the words from coming."

Giles fought a smile, finally giving in and laughing, "That is what is troubling you? You didn't ask me for permission to marry Willow?"

"You find this amusing?" William asked, looking at the human in surprise. "I did not consult you before I asked her to marry me. I thought you mortals were big on tradition and protocol."

"I'm sure there are many of us *mortals* that are," Giles said, making sure that the vampire noticed that he had used the term mortal. He saw William flinch slightly and smiled, knowing that it had been noticed. "But my primary concern is and will always be my daughter's happiness. You do not need my approval if you have her consent."

"Yes I do," William said, knowing that Angelus would be disappointed in him when the elder vampire realized they had not followed normal courtship rituals. True, their courtship was a bit different than most couples, but it was the honor in asking a father's permission before taking his daughter as a wife.

"Fine," Giles said, knowing that there was something more to the vampire's request.

"Mr. Giles, can I please have your permission to take your daughter as my wife?" William asked, his tone nervous despite Giles' earlier approval. "I promise that I will keep her safe forever. That I'll love her forever."

"You don't need to convince me," Giles said, his tone serious. "I can see the love you feel for her, William. That your family feels for her. I know that you will protect her. I give you my permission to take her as your wife with her consent."

"Really?" William grinned, laughing softly. "You've just made me the happiest man alive."

Giles smiled at William's words, "Alive? Interesting choice of words for a vampire."

William froze, his mouth hanging open in a comical look. He tried to speak several times, not sure what to say. Finally, he settled on, "You know?"

"Of course," Giles said. "Do you think I wouldn't take interest in who was courting my daughter? Besides, the girls have known for months and Faith mentioned it to me to make sure I wouldn't react badly once I discovered the truth. I already knew at that time, or I should say that I had suspicions. She just confirmed them."

"Bloody hell, does the entire town know?" he asked, almost speechless.

"Those that matter most to Willow do, and that is all that is important," Giles said. "I believe that the knowledge belongs to those of us at the Rose. Those closest to Willow."

"This is rich," William said, having to smile. "Arrogant humans...think you know it all. And it doesn't bother you? Willow planning on marrying a vampire."

"You love her. That is all I ever ask for her," Giles said. "And, if you ever hurt her, I wouldn't have to feel guilty for killing a human now would I?"

"I see your point," William said, catching Giles' eyes. "I'll never hurt her."

"I'm aware of that," Giles said softly. "I do appreciate you asking for permission."

"I thought it appropriate," William said, grinning suddenly. "Does this mean I can call you Dad now?"

"Don't push your luck, Devlin," Giles growled, smiling.

*****

Willow looked up as the door opened and William entered with a large smile on his face. She glanced at her father and saw his amused smile as his eyes found hers. "He woke up."

"Thank you, William," Xander managed to say. He was propped against several pillows and his face was pale but he was breathing well and his heart sounded steady.

"'Twas nothing," William said, moving towards his chair. He held out his hand to Willow, kissing hers as he moved to sit, pulling her back onto his lap.

"My father," Xander closed his eyes briefly, "He's dead isn't he? I know that Ma is gone. I walked in on them...." his voice broke as he flinched, remembering seeing his stepmother laying on her back on the floor with those men holding her down and rutting between her legs. He then remembered hearing her scream and then the screams fading as the man holding him had begun to beat him. He flinched, not wanting to remember the pain as he had been kicked before he had gotten away. He remembered running and stumbling over a body, tears on his face as he tried to make it to the trees. Listening to the sounds of heavy footsteps behind him. Shooting the gun and being shot himself. Falling to the ground and hearing loud voices calling for everyone to ride out. Then, everything going to black until he had woken up to see Willow's concerned eyes watching him.

"They're both dead," Willow said softly. "But, you're going to be fine."

"I'm tired," Xander said quietly, looking at the blanket covering him. His family was dead. He remembered smelling smoke and assumed his home had been burned. He almost wished that they had just let him die.

"Why don't you try to get some sleep," William said, knowing from the boy's eyes that he was trying to deal with the fact that his family had died and he had survived.

"Thanks," Xander said again, meaning it. He would have to deal with this later. He was so tired.

"It's almost dusk," Giles said, smiling at William. "Why don't we go down and have a drink to celebrate?"

"Celebrate?" Faith asked, glancing at her lover after she saw Xander's eyes fall shut.

"I've asked Willow to become my wife, and silly chit that she is, she's agreed," William said, linking his fingers through hers.

"Oh my," Faith said, caught by surprise. She smiled as she moved around Xander's bed to hug her best friend. She kissed Willow's cheek and then did the same to William's. She then glanced at Xander's sleeping form and sighed. "I'd love to celebrate, but it seems rather like a bad time."

"Life must go on," Angelus said softly, realizing suddenly why William had had a private conference with Giles. He couldn't believe he had forgotten about getting Giles' permission the night before. But, with everything happening so quickly, it had honestly been the last thing on his mind. He smiled at William, glad that his childe had remembered despite the tragedy at hand.

"Come along. We should leave him to sleep," Giles said, nodding towards Xander.

"I can't believe that you're getting married," Faith said, smiling. "Oh, we have a wedding to plan. When shall you get married?"

"We haven't discussed it yet," Willow said softly. "He only proposed last night. And, with Xander, well, it will be awhile before we make any decisions."

"I understand," Faith said, taking Willow's arm.

"I would like to not mention it today," Willow said, looking at William and hoping that he would understand. "I love you so much. I want to enjoy celebrating this special event with my friends and family. I can't do that today. Not with Mr. and Mrs. Harris having died."

"Shh, luv," William said, moving beside her. He smiled, "It would be wise to wait a few days before announcing it. Drusilla must be told though."

"I already told her," Willow said, smiling slightly. "I thought she should know."

"You told her before you told me?" Giles said, laughing. "I can see where I stand in your life, honey."

"I would have told you, but I was so upset last night that I didn't think about it," she said, hoping her father wasn't hurt by her negligence.

"It's ok, honey. I approve. William loves you and makes you happy," Giles said, walking down the stairs towards the saloon.

"That he does," she said softly, looking at her fiance and getting a slight thrill at calling him that. She was going to be Willow Devlin. She smiled, forgetting about Xander for just a few moments before she was reminded of her reality. Sighing, she moved to sit between Angelus and William, feeling Angelus squeeze her hand as he smiled at her. She spoke, "We will have to tell Buffy, Cordelia, Graham and JB because they would kill me for keeping it a secret. But, I'd rather it not be announced publicly until after the funerals."

"Good," Faith said, smiling. "I was wondering how I was supposed to keep it a secret from them for several days."

"They'd have known before the end of evening," Giles said, smiling affectionately at his lover.

"JB should be back soon," Willow said, noticing the growing darkness outside. "I wonder if he went on to track the Clays."

"I doubt it." Giles said, pouring a glass of whiskey, "Not that suddenly. Besides, he would need several men to go with him. I don't think even JB is suicidal enough to face the Clays alone."

"Well, Giles, that would be right stupid of me," a lazy drawl said from the doorway. JB came in and took the bottle of whiskey with a wink at Willow before finishing, "and no one has ever accused me of being stupid. Insane maybe, but never stupid."

*****

JB smiled as he moved to sit, asking, "Is the boy ok?"

"He woke up but went back to sleep," Faith said, sighing softly.

"He's trying to deal with everything," Willow continued, leaning against William for comfort.

"It was the Clay's," JB said, running a caloused hand over his face. "He managed to kill one of them, Adam. He's the middle brother."

"Good. That's one of them dead," William said, a slight edge of anger in his voice.

"I tracked their horses for a few miles," JB said, frowning. "It appears that they have split up outside of town. I've sent telegrams to the law offices in neighboring areas, but I fear they will remain elusive. They have this knack of hiding out until things settle down and they've been forgotten. After this last rash of burnings and murders, they may have realized there is no escape."

"You couldn't follow both groups, but couldn't you track one?" Giles asked, hating the idea that all of the people involved in hurting Xander would get away.

"I could try, and I plan to. But, I don't hold a lot of hope," JB said, glancing at Angelus and William. Suddenly, he smiled. "If I had a way of knowing for certain where they had gone, it would make their capture easier."

"Why do I not like the look that has entered those dark eyes?" Angelus asked dryly.

"Oh," Willow exclaimed, a smile crossing her lips. "William and Angelus could smell them, couldn't they?"

"Ah, luv," William groaned, "Make me feel like some sort of dog or something."

"They could," JB agreed with Willow, smiling at William's antics. He glanced at Angelus and saw the dark haired vampire smiling slightly at Willow and William. "I've ridden with several vampires before. They could track a man by just his scent, though it rarely came to such drastic actions."

"I'm not riding around the smelling the air," William said, frowning as he saw Willow's expression. "I'm not, luv."

"Honey, it could be the only way we find some of the people that killed Mr. Harris and the others. Xander survived, but barely. Will you let him live only to not see justice on his parent's killers?" she asked, giving him her best begging look.

"I give him two minutes," Faith whispered to Giles. She saw him smile and kissed his cheek. She was so glad to see Willow happy.

"How long would this take?" Angelus asked, having already made up his mind to do whatever needed to find at least a few of the men that had caused Willow to be so upset. Oh, and that had hurt Xander of course.

"A couple of days, depending on how far they've ridden," JB said, smiling as he saw the decision in the man's eyes.

"Bleeding hell, sire. You're not really going to act like some bloodhound, are you?" William whined, knowing that he was going to give in, just to see Willow smile at him the way she was now smiling at Angelus.

"Thank you, Angelus!" she said, moving over to kiss his cheek. "I do love you."

"Fine, when do we leave?" William asked, his tone sullen. He brightened when Willow kissed him softly. "The things I do for you, luv."

"I love you too," she said sweetly, resting her head on his shoulder as her eyes sought out JB. "They can't be in the sunlight. Will that hinder your tracking?"

"Not at all," he said. "As I've said, I've traveled with vampires before. I know the procedure. Don't worry your pretty little head, Rose. I won't let anything happen to either of your young men."

She smiled, "I know that, JB. When will you be leaving?"

"The sooner the better," he answered.

William sighed, his hold tightening around Willow. "The sooner we go, the sooner we get back, right?"

"Right," Angelus said, moving his hand to Willow's neck. "Help us pack, love?"

"Gladly," she said, knowing this would be the first time they were seperated since they had met. She chewed her bottom lip, hating that she would not see them for a bit, but knowing that justice was needed. She stood, her hands finding both of theirs. She smiled at JB, "I'll have them packed and ready as quickly as possible."

"I'll be waiting," he said, getting to his own feet and taking one final drink of whiskey. "I got to pack too. I somehow doubt that they'll make it back before me, so I'll see y'all in a bit."

"And here I thought this was going to be a rather dull week," Faith said softly, sighing as she leaned into Giles' arms to wait for Buffy and Delia to tell them what was happening.

*****

"I see blood," Drusilla said softly, her dark eyes watching her sire and brother pack a small bag. "So much blood. And I hear screams."

"Are they ours, luv?" William asked.

"No," she replied with a small smile. "They are not."

"Is it evil of me to want them to scream?" Willow asked quietly, her finger picking at a frayed threat on the comforter.

"Not evil," Angelus said, moving to caress her cheek. Her green eyes looked up at him and he smiled. "They hurt your friend, killed his family. It would be inhuman not to feel something about that."

"I shall take care of her, brother," Drusilla said softly, seeing William's eyes on Willow.

"I know you shall," William said with a smile. "And I'll take care of Angelus."

"You mean, I'll take care of you," Angelus said, smiling slightly.

"Ay, we'll take care of each other," William finally said.

"Do you think you'll be long?" Willow asked.

"Not if I have any say in the matter, pet," William said, moving to sit beside her. He took her hand, knowing it would be the last time he touched her for several days. He hadn't been away from her for more than a few hours in months. He looked at her hand, noticing the bare finger. "I've got to do something about that, luv."

"What?" she asked, wishing he would just spend the remainder of his time kissing her.

"A ring. Let everyone know that you've promised yourself to me," he said, standing and releasing her hand to go to his dresser. He found what he was looking for, moving back to her side. He took her hand, sliding the ring onto her finger. He looked at the small saphire and then into her smiling eyes. "I love you, Willow Rosen."

"It's beautiful," she said, looking at the delicate silver band. She smiled as it slid just a bit on her finger, deciding that she would need to have Joseph tighten it for her. "I love you, too."

"I would like to give you this, my sweet," Angelus said, moving to fasten a necklace around her slender neck. He kissed her neck, letting the design lay between her breasts.

"It's a cross, isn't it?" she asked, looking from the beautiful design into his dark eyes.

"Of sorts," he replied. "It's a family crest. It belonged to my mother, but she gave it to me before her death."

"Thank you, Angelus," she said softly, kissing him tenderly. "I love you, too."

"Shall we just say that we all love each other and be done with it?" Drusilla asked, her tone amused.

Willow laughed, looking at the woman that had become almost a sister to her. "I think that might save a bit of time."

"You shall be careful," Drusilla said, kissing her sire briefly before looking at William. She kissed his cheek, smiling as she looked into his eyes, "We shall be waiting for you, dear brother."

Willow hugged Angelus and kissed him again, "Keep William safe and out of trouble."

"I shall," he replied, picking up his bag.

"You be careful, luv," William said, holding her tightly and raining kisses along her cheeks and jaws before claiming her mouth in a passionate kiss.

"Would you..." she faltered before remembering Xander's heartbroken face as he remembered his parent's violent deaths. She looked into his blue eyes, "would you make them scream for me?"

He nodded, knowing what it had taken for her to ask such a thing. "Anything for you, pet. They shall scream louder than they knew possible."

She smiled, wondering what that promise was the most romantic that she had ever heard. "Hurry back, my loves."

*****

Angelus shifted from one foot to another, his nose wrinkling slightly from the smell of the animal. He hated horses. Had for more years than he could remember. He glanced at William who was already sitting in the saddle of the brown mare he was riding. A slight curl of the blonde's lips reminded Angelus that his childe knew of his dislike of the animals. Angelus rolled his eyes slightly, knowing he needed to forget the memories of the childhood he had had and get on the horse before William started to remind him of them.

William watched his sire, a slight smile on his lips. He knew that Angelus hated horses. The older man had grown up on a farm in the Irish countryside, having spent a happy childhood among animals. Upon his turning, the vampire had gone home and killed his entire family without a flicker of remorse. Every living creature had been destroyed by the new vampire and his sire, Darla. But, Angelus had confessed to the blond one late afternoon many years before, he had not been able to kill his favorite horse. His sister, his father, even his own mother had proven no match for the strong vampire. Yet, upon facing his horse, the vampire had faltered, causing his sire to become angry and massacre the horse herself. Angelus had spoken of the punishment he had received that night, remembering in detail what Darla had forced him to endure because of that one moment of hesitation he had felt. Since then, Angelus had avoided horses in general. William knew he would not tease his sire about such a thing, but Angelus had no knowledge that he would not, so it still made it amusing to watch his sire fight the need to flee from the creature in front of him.

"Get on the damn thing and let's ride out," JB said, scowling at the darker Devlin brother. "She ain't gonna bite ya."

Angelus turned to see Willow leaning against the porch railing, a look of soft sadness and fear in her green eyes. He moved towards her, watching her eyes widen a bit as a smile crossed her face. He kissed her deeply, claiming her mouth with his tongue as her soft body moved against his. He pulled away from her, smiling at the look on her face. His fingers brushed against her cheek as he heard Faith covering her laughter from behind the redhead. He kissed her forehead and whispered, "I'll be back soon, love. And I'll keep an eye on William for ye."

Willow smiled, comforted by Angelus' words. He considered his word like a promise, so she knew he would be back soon. "Be safe, my love."

Angelus turned and winked at William who was rolling his eyes at his sire's display. Anything to put off getting on the horse. He smiled at Willow as he called out, "He means that I'll take care of him, pet. Keep the miserable old bastard out of trouble, I will."

Willow had to laugh, the soft sound causing both vampire to smile. They hadn't heard her laugh since bringing their bags downstairs to meet JB, nearly a half hour before. Angelus began to chant mentally, You can ride the horse. You can ride the horse. Over and over again he repeated that mantra until his large hand enclosed around the saddlehorn. He put his right foot in the proper place and lifted, swinging his left foot to the other side of the beast. He heard a whinny underneath him as he settled his body onto the creature. He moved slightly, trying to get comfortable. It had been many a year since he had been in a saddle, never using once as a child. After he had been turned, he had never been without a carriage or wagon. It was well over seventy years since he had been on a horse. He sighed slightly, feeling long buried emotions coming back to him. He remembered racing through fields on his horse, the wind in his hair. It had been a freedom of sorts when he had been young. "Ready?"

"Been waiting on you, boy," JB drawled, watching the man's eyes flicker as he got a hold on the saddle.

"Then, let's ride," Angelus said, spurring his horse into action.

"God help me survive this trip," JB muttered, watching as the blond road off to catch up to his brother, calling out dares of a race.

"Do you think they'll get anything accomplished?" Cordelia asked, watching the two men shouting at each other as they disappeared down the street, the figure of JB starting to catch up.

"Probably not a lot," Willow said, laughing softly. "They promised to make someone scream for me, so I know they'll at least do that."

"Willow Rosen! You asked them to make someone scream?" Buffy said, looking at the girl in surprise. A small smile crossed her lips, "I'm so proud of you!"

"Hope they kill them all after making them scream," Faith said, her tone bitter. She had been friends with the former Mrs. Harris, and enjoyed a friendship with Xander upon his visits to the saloon.

"They will," Willow said, her tone matter of fact.

"That doesn't bother you?" Cordelia asked, curious despite herself.

"No," Willow said, shaking her head. "Those men don't deserve to live for what they've done. William and Angelus will make them regret ever coming to Harrington."

"So, anyone hungry?" Faith asked, looking at the girls hopefully.

Willow laughed as she put an arm around the girl's shoulder, "You're always hungry, Faith. Come on. Can't have you eating alone, can we?"

"I am not always hungry," Faith said, defending herself as they entered the Rose. She called out, "Graham. Get us four steaks. All the trimmings," as the girls sat at the table, waiting for Giles to finish his business and join them. Willow glanced at the door, saying a soft prayer to keep her loves safe and to make the Clay's finally face justice.

*****

William looked around the cave, kicking a rock along the surface. He sighed loudly, looking at the glow of the sun still evident at the cave's entrance. He heard his sire chuckle and turned to face the dark haired vampire. "What?"

"We've only been gone two days and you're already pacing like a caged tiger," Angelus remarked casually.

"As if you're any better," William said, smiling slightly. "I miss her, Peaches."

"So do I," Angelus said, glancing at the entrance of the cave. "We should run across them tonight. JB said they are not far ahead. We might be home by Friday."

"I hope so," William said, moving to sit on the blanket. "I want to kill these men and get back to my Willow."

"Are you going to kill them?" JB asked, entering the cave and putting his pack down.

William looked at the human and shrugged, "Willow asked me to."

"Do you think she really wants them dead?" Angelus asked softly.

"I don't know," William replied honestly. "She asked for it, and her eyes told me she wanted it. For me, that's enough."

"She wouldn't have asked if she hadn't wanted them to scream," JB said, knowing Willow well enough to know that she did not joke about people's lives. "She wants them to pay for everything they've done."

"Then pay they will," Angelus said, a determined look in his eyes. He hadn't allowed the demon to play in months, since arriving in Harrington. It was time to have some fun before going back to settle into domesticity. He could see the look in William's eyes and recognized the hunger. For Willow, William was preparing to let the demon out to play.

"I promised my Willow screams, I'm going to give her screams," William said.

"The gang is camped out by the river. It's Steve and Mike Clay and four others. I'm assuming the other boys rode West into the Colorado territory. Our boys are heading into the Oklahoma territory, probably going towards Texas," JB said, scratching his whiskers.

"So there are six of them?" William asked.

"Yep," JB drawled. "I watched them for about an hour. They're sleeping out in the open, acting as if they're in no danger of being tracked. They're holed up at the old station, two of the boys sleeping by the tracks and one sleeping out behind the station. The other three seem to be scattered around the old building. Guess they don't like getting in touch with nature all that much."

"We'll hit the two by the tracks if you want to get the boy out back," William said, "That will leave the three inside for all of us."

"So, we move out at dusk," Angelus said, glancing at JB. "You're sure they won't be getting up until later?"

"Nah. From what I've seen, they sleep until at least seven," JB said.

"Let's get this over with then," William said. "We've got someone to get back to."

JB glanced outside, moving to look at the sun. "It's almost down. You boys ready to bring some justice?"

"More than ready," Angelus said, remembering the people he had found at Xander's house.

"Justice," William smiled suddenly, "Vampire style."

*****

William looked at the sleeping men, disgust in his eyes. They were nothing more than weak mortals. He glanced at Angelus, raising his left eyebrow. He cocked his head to the side, waiting for permission to move. Angelus nodded silently, hearing the low bird call that meant JB had killed his mark. The two vampires moved through the night, towards the sleeping men. William was trying to think of the most painful way to kill the Clay boys themselves. It seemed almost a shame to simply break their necks. From what he had heard they had spread a reign of terror throughout five states. The idea that they had killed those kids, raping the little girl, well, that to him made them more inhuman than any of his kind.

Angelus closed his eyes, listening to the steady beating of his victims' heart. He licked his lips, the thrill of the hunt raising his demon. He glanced at Spike and felt himself hardening as he saw the yellow flashing in his childe's eyes. He moved quickly, pinning his prey down. His hand covered the man's mouth, watching as eyes flashed open. He felt the fear and smiled, his fangs glinting in the pale moonlight. He leaned down, whispering, "You should have kept on riding. Never stopped at that farm house the other night. Did you enjoy it? I hope so, because it's the last thing you're going to remember before you die."

William glanced at Angelus and saw his sire's fangs buried in the man's neck. He listened as the heart beat stopped, the man dead beneath his sire. He looked at the man underneath him, deciding that this one could scream just a bit. He looked at Angelus, "I want to hear him scream, for Willow."

Angelus smiled, licking the blood from his fangs. "I wouldn't complain. JB is in position. By the time those boys inside wake up, this one will be dead and we'll be waiting for them."

William smiled, glad he had received his sire's permission to play. He nodded at the man, "Hold him for me, will ya Peaches?"

"Of course," Angelus said, moving to hold the man down that was struggling against them. He almost laughed, wondering if this puny human thought he had a chance of escaping. "And don't call me that."

William laughed, standing and looking at the human. He glanced around, a light entering his eyes as he saw the perfect tool. He moved towards the train tracks, reaching out and picking up three stray railroad spikes. He turned towards the human, inhaling the scent of fear those pieces of metal caused in the man. He put two in his pocket, bringing the other to his mouth. "I can't wait to taste your blood you miserable bastard."

Angelus saw the gleam in William's eyes, having not seen such strong blood lust in those pale blue eyes for many decades. He glanced at the object in William's eyes and smiled, "Quit playing with him, Spike. Go ahead and kill him. We've got three more waiting inside."

"Spike?" William looked at his sire, smiling slightly. "Aye, Peaches. I hear you."

He moved down, pushing the stake into the man's heart. He closed his eyes briefly, listening to the man's scream. Smiling at his sire, he shrugged, "I've decided I'd rather not taste him. Probably sour."

"Let's go find JB," Angelus said. "We get to have fun with the last three."

William laughed, "Yeah, I hope they scream louder than this one did. Complete waste of a spike."

"I'm sure we can make them scream," Angelus said, flashing his childe a smile as they moved towards the station house. "Between the two of us, Willow might hear them back in Harrington."

"Three more to kill then we can go back to our Red," William said, smiling. "So, Spike eh?"

"You don't like?" Angelus asked.

"Actually, I do. Fits me, in a way," he said, grinning. "Come on Peaches. JB might think we've been staked."

"Only three more then we can go home," Angelus said, sighing as he and William headed into the station, demons at the front as they began to slaughter the remaining three members of the gang.

*****

William pushed the spike into the man's stomach, listening to him scream in pain. He moved his hand up, wiping at his hair that was plastered around his neck. A trail of blood covered the smooth white column of his neck as his hand moved. He licked his lips, the scent of blood and pain and fear acting almost as an aphrodisiac. His length was throbbing and pushing against his trousers almost painfully. He shifted slightly, trying to find some relief on his erection. He stood, his blue eyes tinged with yellow as they regarded the squirming man laying before him. They had knocked the men inside the station unconscious upon burting into the room. After that, William had run outside and found more spikes.

Now, Steve and Mike Clay were laying pinned to the wooden floor. Spikes held their hands down, while Angelus had broken their legs. They would not be going anywhere. JB had left the room, his face slightly white, after he had heard the breaking bones and the screams from the spikes being driven into their hands. He had seen many things in his years, several things even worse, but he was getting older. Scenes like this no longer impressed him. He believed the Clay boys deserved anything that the Devlins wanted to do to them, so he waited outside on the porch, his dark eyes watching the moonlight as he listened to the screams that William had promised Willow.

Angelus watched his childe, dark eyes narrow with desire as he saw the blond sneer before putting his foot on one of the stakes and pushing it deeper into the screaming man's stomach. William spoke to his victim, that often being his favorite form of torture. Angelus listened as he told the Clays exactly why they were being killed and about the beautiful redhead who wanted them to face justice. He listened, his erection growing more with each word. William's husky voice telling one of the men what he was doing to the other, down to the sound that the flesh made as it ripped for the sharp point of the stake.

Angelus knew that, normally, his family was beyond these games. He had been a vampire for over a hundred years, his first three decades spent creating scenes much like the one in front of him. But, with time, he had matured. The thrill had gone out of it. Then, he had made the mistake that was Penn, taking a childe much too early and teaching the boy all the wrong things. He had realized his mistake though, knowing that Penn had never been a true childe. So, two decades later when he had stumbled across the beautiful face of William, he had taken it slowly. He had watched the human, feeling things for the boy he had thought dead upon his own death. In a way, he had fallen in love with the boy. He had courted William, in a way. Seducing the brash, arrogant lad into becoming what he wanted. A true mate and childe. Angelus was not a man that liked to be alone, yet he had spent more than four decades alone at that time. Brief times spent with his sire or others like him, but no true mate. William had changed that. Had, in a way, changed him.

Not that was William was an innocent as a human. No, one could not earn the nickname William the Bloody by being pious and upright. The brunette human had been in a war, bringing back memories of death and despair. He had been unsuccessful in forgetting those images when Angelus had found him drunk in a bar that evening. Over the next few evenings, Angelus had heard enough to convince him that it was destiny that had brought him to the dirty pub that night. He had changed William, having spent more than six decades with the youth by his side. He remembered William's turning and the years following that night. They had become known as the Scourge of Europe, leaving death wherever they went. They complimented each other, giving the other what was missing from their life. It had made them a wonderful team, both loving the hunt and the scent of blood and fear.

Drusilla had changed them both. She was still relatively young, just celebrating the end of her third decade. She had been spotted by him when the two had returned to London to rest after years of carnage. He had been growing bored with killing people, tired of running from mobs and he knew William was bored with it. His childe had never had a fear of keeping his thoughts to himself. He had seen Drusilla in the park one evening and felt a connection to her, much as he had with William. She had become an obsession, causing him to kill her family and friends just for a reaction. She had been slightly daft when he had finished with her, and he could say now that he had handled her courting the wrong way yet he would not change it at all. It had made her the Drusilla they loved now, the woman that had made them see the errors of their ways. With innocent words, she had made them realize that killing humans only brought attention to themselves. It was a cycle of sorts that they wanted out of. She did not like the slaughter, biting only to feed and rarely did she kill anyone. Because of her courting, she had somehow kept the gentleness of her spirit, the intelligence that had first attracted him. He loved Willow and cared a lot for the redhead, but Drusilla was his primary mate, his other half in many ways even if he never spoke about it. That was one reason he was inclined to allow William to have Willow. His childe needed someone to keep him grounded in much the same way Drusilla grounded him.

It had been thirty years of playing with humans, enjoying the fear and blood without the slaughter. He was man enough to admit that he had not missed anything of the years before Drusilla. He had continued enjoying the parts he liked most, still killing once in awhile but not nearly as much. William had thrived on the change in their lives, loving the games much more than the death. The boy had had a gentle soul too, even surrounded by death and carnage. Angelus had found himself drawn to humans that smelled of innocence and intelligence, choosing two of the best for his. By adding Willow into the family, his circle would be complete. He was proud of his childer, knowing they had reputations that extended all over the globe for their ways of torture and playing. His family was feared by many who knew that they did not approve of rampages of killing humans any longer. Of course, as time passed, many of his kind had realized the same truths. It was easier to hunt and feed without the killing. It prolonged their own lives as it continued to allow for more humans to be born and fed upon. He shook his head slightly, hearing a loud piercing scream before silence. He had drifted away again, he realized. His dark eyes found his William and he smiled, "So, are you enjoying yourself, Spike?"

"Sure am, Peaches," Spike said, grinning at his sire as the last human died. He licked his lips, his blue eyes finding the erection pushing against the black trousers. He moved forward, dropping to his knees as his hands, dripping with blood, opened the front of his sire's pants. His mouth enclosed around the cock, his tongue tasting the leaking pre-cum as he began to move his head around his sire's shaft. He paused for a moment, a flash of their past coming to him. Of the other nights they had killed and then mated in the blood of their victims. Before he could get very nostalgic, another image replaced that one. An image of his Willow, her sweet smile and the taste of her lips. He smiled, moving his head more rapidly, knowing his sire was near. What was past, was past. His future was with Willow, with his family. The Clays had screamed for him, just as he had promised his fiance they would.

*****

JB looked up when he heard the door opening, flinching slightly when he saw the obvious blood on the two men. The light from his lantern cast them in a faint glow, making them almost look mystical. He turned his head, feeling no fear at the sight of them. He knew it could be foolish to trust two admitted demons, but he did. He didn't think of either of them would hurt him unless he hurt Willow or Dru. And that would never happen so he felt safe, despite the blood on their hands and clothes. "I reckon they're both dead."

"Yes," William said, his blue eyes regarding the quiet man.

"Good," JB nodded. "I took care of that other guy with them, by the way."

"I saw," Angelus said, moving to sit on the top step. "Mike told us that the other boys headed West, like you figured."

JB nodded, "Colorado Territory. Probably Denver. They'll stay there for a bit, hiding out and then they'll ride back through into Nebraska to go back home. I don't see them chancing a ride through Kansas again, not with everything they've done. I'll send a telegram to the sheriff over in Denver when we get back to Harrington. Maybe forward one on to Nebraska, have them keeping their eyes open this spring."

"Are you chasing them to Denver?" Angelus asked lazily, stretching on the stairs. He had taken his childe in the blood of the Clay's, his body still relaxed from their mating.

JB thought about it and then shook his head, "No. No point really. We got six of them tonight. That's gonna hurt them, especially considering that three of Clay boys are dead now if you count the one Harris got. I think I'll head back into Harrington, maybe go up to see Bill. He's been squawking at me to join his silly little western show in New York next year. May just do that. Get away from these parts for a bit."

"Bill Cody?" William asked, nodding. "I saw mention of that show in New York when we got off the boat. Didn't realize you two new each other."

JB shrugged, "We stay in touch. He's been to the Rose with me before. Always asks after his Willow."

"His?" William snarled, not realizing his demon was reacting.

JB laughed, "Down boy. She was eleven when they met, so she'll always be eleven in his mind until he dies. Cody's that way. He never lets people change in that empty mind of his."

"Sounds like a nice guy," Angelus said, recognizing the affectionate and friendly tone in which JB spoke of the man.

"If you like that sort," JB drawled, knowing that Bill was the only person he could honestly consider a friend. He sighed, getting to his feet. "I may head up to meet him after Christmas. Kinda want to spend the holidays at the Rose. Eh, who knows?"

"You've got to stay around for the wedding, mate," William said, grinning as he remembered he was getting married soon.

"Wedding?" JB frowned, glancing at the goofy smile on the blond's face. He took in the blood covered clothes, the loose blond hair that had come free and was now framing a deceptively angelic face, and the spike that was laying on the porch beside the vampire's hand and had to laugh. "Holy shit, you're marrying Rose?"

"She foolishly agreed," Angelus replied, his tone woeful.

"Shut up, Peaches," William said, laughing. "She actually said yes. Can you believe it, JB? I'm going to be a married vampire before the end of this year."

"Yeah, actually I can," JB said, laughing as he merged the two versions of William that he had seen into one person. He wondered if Willow was completely aware of what a vampire truly was. Sure, she knew they fed from humans based on the books and stories he had told her, but she had never seen their true nature. The Devlins were very good at keeping that part subdued, but, thinking of the screaming and torture of the Clays, he knew it still existed there inside them. Could she handle that truth if she were faced with it? He sighed, knowing it was not his place to say anything. She knew the facts and had made her choice. Besides, it was evident to anyone that she loved them both, despite their undead status. The Devlins would protect her, of that he was sure. He would just keep quite and hope that she never realized exactly what they were really capable of doing. But, hell, knowing his Rose, she wouldn''t blink an eye at it, loving them no matter what.

"Spike here has her fooled," Angelus said, laughing softly. "But, soon, she'll be part of the family. We won't let anything hurt her."

"I'm thinking of marrying her before the holidays," William said, rather liking his new nickname from his sire. There were so many Williams around that being called Spike might not be a bad thing. "She loves the cold as much as I. An outdoor ceremony in the snow maybe."

"And then dozens of sick humans preventing her from leaving on the honeymoon," Angelus reminded with a smile.

William groaned, "Damn. Forgot them. Fine, it can be indoors but I want snow outside at least."

"In Kansas during winter?" JB said, laughing, "I don't find that being a problem."

"Well, I've heard all about these snowy winters, but it's already the first part of Novemeber," William grumbled.

"Impatient whelp," Angelus muttered. He stood, brushing off his trousers. He would need to bathe before they stopped for the morning, the blood and his childe's release sticking to him. "I feel we must leave soon if we'd like to make it back to that cave before dawn. I really would like to clean up before we settle for the day."

"Me too," William said, knowing he was covered with blood. He was surprised JB could look at him without flinching.

"I'm ready," JB said, moving towards his horse. "We should be back in Harrington in two days time."

William moved to his horse, smiling, "Good. I hate being away from Willow this long."

"Dru's taking care of her, I'm sure," Angelus said, mounting his horse. He smiled suddenly, "Maybe if we ride like the wind, we can make it home tomorrow."

JB laughed, "Hey, just remember that I'm human. An old human at that."

"We'll remember," William said, smiling at the middle aged man before he began to ride back towards the cave. He might be back in Willow's arms before dawn on Monday. Something to look forward to, for sure.

*****

"So, married huh?" Xander asked softly, watching the redhead smile shyly.

"Yeah," she whispered, finishing her task of rewrapping his wound. The bleeding had slowed several days before, but it still looked nasty to her. The skin had been torn from the piercing of the bullet and she knew that it would scar.

"When?" he asked, having just heard the news from his friend. He knew she hadn't seen the Devlins in nearly a week, both having been deputized by JB and having followed the older lawman to search for the Clay gang the week before. She had told him about the Devlins, about them being vampires. He hadn't believed her until she had brought Drusilla to see him. Running his fingers over the ridges in her face, well, he'd realized it was true. Everything he'd always heard about vampires seemed to be lies, he decided. The Devlins were good people, having saved him and their love for Willow could not be questioned. It had given him something to think about over the week he had been confined to the bed. He had not been allowed to leave it alone, having to ask Graham or Giles to assist him even when he had to use the bathroom. They had let him attend the funeral of his parents, his hand held by Willow and Faith the entire ceremony.

"That night," she said softly, looking into his face. "By the river, he asked me. I said yes. Soon after is when I heard the gunshot, smelled the smoke. It wasn't a good time to be celebrating."

"I'm sorry," he whispered, looking down at their hands. "I ruined what should have been the second happiest day of your life, the actual wedding being the first. I promise I won't mess that day up."

"Oh you hush," she scolded, smacking his arm and seeing him smile slightly. It was one of the first smiles she had seen since he had woken that first day. It was going slowly, but he was getting better. She at least knew he was going to survive. "You didn't mess anything up. Besides, it wasn't official until William spoke to Father, which wasn't until after you were awake."

"I hope he makes you happy, Wills," Xander said, looking into her face. If it hadn't been for her these past few days, he honestly knew he probably would have just died. Given up completely. She was an angel, she was.

"He will," she smiled. "Both he and Angelus will."

"Both?" Xander looked at her, his eyes startled. He shook his head, "My head is spinning already. I don't think I can quite come to terms with that too at the moment. Give me some time, honey?"

"Of course," she said, leaning over and kissing his cheek. "I love you, Xander Harris. You're one of my best friends. You can have all the time you need."

"Love you too, Will," he said, his voice choking slightly. "If it hadn't been for you...I don't..."

"Shh," she put her fingers on his lips. "None of that. I'm going downstairs now. Do you need anything?"

He shook his head, "No, but thanks. I think I'll just get some sleep. My arm is feeling sore, but everything else feels fine."

"Sleep well, Xan," she said, moving to the door. She blew out the lantern and shut the door behind her as she moved downstairs.

Faith looked up at the redhead, a smug grin on her face. "Is he doing ok?"

"Sleeping. Still some pain from his arm, but everything else is healing nicely. William did a wonderful job with him," Willow said, grinning.

"Guess who I found wandering around outside," Faith said, looking at Buffy and winking before looking back at Willow.

Willow's eyes lit up and she smiled, "Are they back? So soon?"

Buffy laughed, "Out at the stables putting the horses away."

Willow ran down the rest of the stairs, crossing the saloon and dodging people easily. She ran out the doors, her dark red hair flying behind her as she ran to the stables. She halted when she saw them, just absorbing the sight of them. William straightened, facing her with a huge smile on his face when he sensed her.

"Red!" he called out, moving to hug her and swing her off the ground. He kissed her face as he set her down, not leaving any flesh untouched by his lips. "Glory, I missed you."

"Hey, my turn," Angelus said, pulling the laughing redhead against him. He kissed her deeply, hugging her warm body against his.

"I missed you both so much," she said, looking between the two men. "Faith was always teasing me about moping around like I was lost cause you both were gone."

"Well, we were lost without you, luv," William said, pulling her away from Angelus and kissing her passionately. When he pulled away, her eyes were dazed and he could smell her slight arousal. Groaning, he buried his face in her neck, whispering, "How much longer until we're legal, pet?"

She giggled, closing her eyes and simply enjoying the feel of his body against hers. "Not soon enough I'm afraid."

"There shall be none of that," Angleus scolded playfully as he pulled them apart. His dark eyes twinkled as he reminded them, "Not until after the wedding."

"Arrogant wanker, always having to play nice," William said, shaking his head as he smiled at his sire. He mouthed the words Thank You knowing that it was getting more difficult to hold her and then let go.

Angelus just smiled, "I don't always place nice, William, as you well know."

Willow felt a shudder run over her at Angelus' words, the husky sound of his voice causing feelings in places it shouldn't. She gulped, running a shaky hand through her hair. "Um, so, where's JB?"

William laughed, "He went to the sheriff, had to send a telegram to Denver about the rest of the Clay gang. That's where he figures they were headed."

"But, you got some of them?" she asked, looking between her two men.

William smiled, squeezing her hand, "I made them scream for you, luv."

She smiled, "Thank you. Please don't think that I'm wicked for asking that, it's just, they were horrible people. They deserved that much."

"They faced justice, honey," William said, "and didn't survive."

She nodded, knowing it was immoral to feel relief that some of those men were dead, but she didn't care. She felt that it was justified. She smiled, moving between the two as they picked up their bags. "Why don't we go inside where it's warm and you can tell me about your trip. Not all the details of course, but the most important ones."

"Come on Spike," Angelus said, looking at his childe. "Get the bag and get moving."

"Spike?" Willow asked, frowning slightly as she looked between the two. She smiled, "Oh, something like Peaches I assume. Do I want to know how this nickname came about?"

"It's a long story, luv," William said, putting his arm around her shoulders. "But, I rather like the name. Wouldn't mind you calling me by it, if you'd want to."

"Spike?" she smiled, leaning her head against his chest as her hand held on to Angelus'. "I think I could learn to like it."

"Let's quit talking and get inside," Angelus said, running his finger over her palm. "It's getting cold out here and someone forgot their coat in their haste to see us."

"Not that cold," Willow said, snuggling closer against William. "You just want some pie."

"Well, that too," he replied, all three laughing as they headed up the stairs and inside the Rose.

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