Willow finished her lunch and sat back in the chair. "That was good."

Buffy raised an eyebrow. "You didn't eat it all....."

"Sorry, Mom. I got full" she said, laughing.

"Probably all those huge dinners you have each night" Faith said, grinning at the redhead.

"They are not huge" Willow protested, laughing slightly. "Who am I joking? I swear Angelus orders more and more each night."

"He just wants to make sure you are eating properly" Anya said, laughing. "He and William are the best caretakers a girl could have."

"They are, aren't they?" Willow said smiling softly. The Devlins had now been in town for two months. Their extended stay was already past the six week mark, and there had been no more talk about leaving Harrington. They had also become a part of the Rose, helping out at night when needed and keeping a watchful eye on all of Willow's friends. They were well loved by everyone at the Rose and she knew they would be missed if they left.

"Lucky girl" Buffy said, smiling. "Having two such handsome suitors."

"Suitors?" Willow repeated, rolling her eyes. "Not likely. I feel as if I've become the little sister."

"I've seen them look at you, Willow" Faith said, "and trust me, it is not a look of brotherly affection. More along the lines of passionate and lustful."

"Well, you wouldn't know it by the way they treat me" Willow grumbled, "Always being such gentlemen. Each night, Angelus chastely kisses my forehead or cheek and William brushes his fingers against my lips. I've not had to fight off any unwanted advances."

"You sound disappointed" Anya laughed, "Besides, I doubt they would be very unwanted, eh, Red?"

"Hush" Willow said, pouting. "Speaking of unwanted, has the Deputy come back into town yet?"

Buffy stiffened, looking at the redhead. "I wouldn't know. He left in such a tizzy the last time that I wasn't able to find out when he was due to return."

"He's still gone" Faith said, matter of factly. "If he weren't, he'd be here for a poke and a fight. That is their routine, Willow."

"Now you hush" Buffy said softly. Faith was write. Every time that Riley was around lately, they would end up arguing and he would leave or she would toss him out. Only to have the thing repeated within a day. It was just getting so difficult for her. She loved him so much and he still treated her like a whore. He didn't love her, though she did know he cared about her. She just didn't understand why always set herself up for the fall. "If you want to discuss a routine, must we forget dear sweet Xander?"

"I'd like to" Anya muttered. He had stayed away from her for fifteen days during the summer. It had been a horrid fifteen days. She hadn't realized just how dependant upon his smile she had become. But, he had finally come back the beginning of August. He had not asked her to marry him again for three weeks. Alas, he had begun his courtship again two weeks prior. She was so tired of saying no to him. She really wished he'd just quit asking. "He asked me again last night."

"And?" Willow asked, always hopeful that Anya may have finally broken down and said yes.

"I said no" Anya said, seeing the slight look of disappointment in the redhead's eyes. "Willow, you know that he is not what I need. He's a farmer for pete sake."

"There is nothing wrong with farming" Faith said softly. She could see the love in Anya's eyes when she spoke of Xander...had noticed the moodiness of the girl when he had stayed away. Anya was just too stubborn to admit she was in love with a poor farmer.

"Easy for you to say" Anya said quietly. She looked at the pretty brunette, "You've got it made. When is the last night you've lain with a man? A paying customer?"

Faith blushed slightly. "I don't recall."

"More than six weeks" Buffy said gently. She smiled softly, "Giles takes care of you now Faith. We don't have that. We must take care of ourselves. I'm happy that you have been able to find someone to love...someone that actually loves you back, but you can sit there and condemn us for surviving."

"I would never condemn you" Faith said, thinking about it. She hadn't realized that she had stopped working. When she needed to buy something, Giles bought it. She frowned, realizing that her flirtation with the handsome older man had moved into a new field that she had been unaware of. "I'm sorry."

"Don't be" Anya said, looking at Willow. "It's not like you have TWO handsome men completely in love with you. Our little girl has grown up."

"Isn't it fantastic?" Buffy said, laughing as Willow blushed. "Of course, sweetling, you must share the details with us."

"Details?" Willow looked at them curiously. "What details?"

Faith had to laugh, "When you finally understand what details we are speaking about, then you can share them."

"Oh, you people" Willow said, standing. "Neither of the Devlins are in love with me, so there will be no details to speak of. Now, if you will excuse me, I must clean three of the rooms."

"Details, Willow" Buffy called out, laughing as the girl stuck her tongue out at them.

*****

Cordelia walked into the lobby of the Wild Rose, her brown eyes looking around for any sign of Willow. She shut the door behind her, not seeing any sign of the redhead. She walked to the counter, peering over the top. No Willow. She leaned against the counter, running her hands through her hair. She had left it down this evening, hoping that it would in some way conceal her as she rode through the shadows to visit Willow. She was actually getting past the point of caring if her mother knew she was still friends with Willow. Every single day, things at the Chase home got worse. She hated spending any time there at all now.

"Cordelia?"

She turned a smile crossing her face, "Uncle Giles."

He smiled, hugging the girl. "What are you doing out this late? Your mother would have a fit if she knew."

Cordelia grimaced, "She won't realize. She's too busy with all of her plans for a better life."

"I'm sure she just wants what is best for you" he said, not very convincingly. It was a known fact that he and Bethany Chase did not get along even when the Chases were poor as dirt mice.

"She wants what is best for her" Cordelia corrected with a smile. "I know that I'm just one of the assets. If I didn't have this face, she'd have already kicked me out I'm sure. As it is, I can flit around looking pretty at parties and such so she tolerates me."

"I'm sorry" Giles said softly. Cordelia was such a beautiful intelligent young lady. He hated seeing the constant unhappiness in her eyes. The only time he ever saw her smile anymore was when she was with Willow. "Were you looking for Willow?"

Cordelia nodded, "Actually, I was. Mother retired early today because she wasn't feeling well, so I made a break for it. Of course, it's been awhile since I've seen you Uncle so I don't mind waiting to find Willow."

"You're still a charmer, I see" Giles said, smiling.

"I try" she smiled. "What is this I hear about love blooming between you and Faith?"

He turned slightly red, "Love? Well, now, I'm not sure I'd use that word this early. I like her. She makes me happy. But, she's so young. She's just a bit older than Willow."

"Age doesn't matter if you're in love" Cordelia said, smiling at his obvious discomfort at discussing the subject with her. "I'll let you off the hook, old man. Where did you say Willow was?"

"I didn't" he said, laughing. "Where else would she be after dusk? With the Devlins. I believe they are working on the back porch. She has them working with that Harris boy at fixing some sagging boards in the back."

"What do you think of them?" Cordelia asked, curious to his thoughts.

"They care about Willow. That's good enough for me" Giles said.

"You don't find it odd that she is involved with two different men that happen to be brothers?" Cordelia asked, having decided that she saw nothing wrong with Willow falling in love with two men. It was normal to find one man, but she was used to Willow always surpassing the norm so this wasn't a surprise.

"You mean because the moralists believe there is just one man for every woman?" Giles asked. Seeing her nod, he smiled. "I believe that you find love regardless of sex or numbers. Of course, people have called me immoral so I might not be the best authority."

"I love you even if you are immoral" Cordelia said, kissing his cheek. "You're the best role model I know. And I don't mind that Willow loves them both. It makes it a bit odd at times, especially for dinner parties I'm sure, but she's happy. I think I'll go on back and find her. It was nice talking to you, Uncle."

"Good night Delia" he said, kissing her forehead. "I hope things get better for you soon."

"Doubtful, but thanks" she said before moving down the hall towards the back door and Willow.

"What do you farm?" William asked the lanky youth as he nailed the board. "A bit of this and that" Xander said, shrugging. "We have cows and chickens and horses and various crops. We're not very successful." *****

"How far outside of town?" Angelus asked, working on sawing the needed boards. He looked up as Willow sighed softly. The light from the moon cast a beautiful glow around her. She was sitting in a chair, her feet underneath her as she watched them work. He smiled at the appreciative look in her eyes.

"Bout ten miles" Xander said, stretching as he stood and went to get another board. "We have a couple thousand acres. Dad was smart enough to buy before the town got really built up. He got a lot of land for cheap. Nearest neighbors are in town or fifteen miles the other way. It's kinda nice."

"It's beautiful land" Willow said, smiling. She had torn her gaze from William and Angelus' nude chests to participate in the conversation.

"Really, pet?" William asked.

"There's a river that runs through the trees that is just beautiful. It's not like this one here, all dirty and brown. It's actually got blue water. There is a nice patch of trees there too. We used to play hide and seek out there when we were kids." She remembered.

"You guys will have to come out and see it sometime" Xander said, walking back to the porch. "Since Ma died, we don't get much company."

"Maybe a midnight picnic" Willow suggested, knowing that they wouldn't be able to get out during the day. So far, they still had no idea she knew about what they really were. She had decided to keep it that way until they felt it the time to tell her themselves.

"That would be fun" William said, smiling at her in the darkness. He could feel her heart racing as she watched him and his sire. He had intentionally removed his shirt, just wanting to tease her. He was growing weary of the slow courtship. It had been eight weeks they had been there and he still hadn't done more than kiss her forehead. He wanted to hold her close and sink inside her tight warmth. That image stayed with him every time his eyes closed. He knew Angelus felt the same way, often hearing his sire murmer her name in his sleep as he pulled him closer. "Don't you think, Angelus?"

"A marvelous suggestion" Angelus said, "We shall have to consider it next week. Would that be good for you Harris?"

"Consider it an open invitation" Xander said, wondering why anyone would want to take a nighttime picnic. Of course, it was usually rather warm during the day and the nights were cooler. He for one was happy that they had decided to do this work at night.

"I'd be very happy to see your land" Angelus said, going back to cutting. "And a picnic is always nice."

They continued fixing the boards on the porch, listening as Xander and Willow told them stories of their time in school together. Angelus had been rather surprised when he had learned just how close the two had once been, but he had realized that Willow did seem to care about the boy early on. He had learned that they had been friends in school, losing touch when Xander had been forced to quit school to work with his father. They had still kept in touch though and as they grew older, their friendship had stayed in place. Angelus had no fears about Xander being with Willow. He had seen clearly the devotion in the youths eyes when he looked at Anya.

Willow was happy that the men she loved got along so well with her friends. All of her friends liked them too which made it even better. She couldn't think of many ways she could be much happier. Watching their muscles as they worked, bathed in moonlight and the light from the lantern, she felt a strange heat in her body. It was a feeling she had been having more and more often when she was around the Devlins. She shifted in her seat, looking up as the door opened. She saw Cordelia and smiled in happy surprise, "Delia!"

"Willow" Cordelia smiled as she walked down the stairs, casting an appreciative glance at the working men before looking back at Willow and winking. "Nice view."

"What are you doing here so late?" Willow asked, standing and walking towards the girl.

"I had to get away" Cordelia said simply, hugging her friend. "I was going crazy."

"Again?" William said, laughing. "Weren't you going crazy the other night too?"

"It's constant in that house" Cordelia said, sighing. "So, want some company until I can't possibly put off going home?"

"You're always welcome here" Willow said, moving to sit back down. "I was just enjoying the view" she whispered to Cordelia and giggled.

"I can see why" Cordelia said, smiling as she settled back in the chair to talk to Willow. A smile crossed her face as she watched the Devlins watch Willow watching them. So silly sometimes, she thought as she rolled her eyes, thankful to be here instead of at home.

*****

William sat on the bed and put a pillow behind his back. He frowned, looking up at his sire. "How long have we been here?"

Angelus glanced at his handsome childe before shrugging, "Almost nine weeks. Hard to believe time has gone so fast."

William sighed, his blue eyes watching Angelus' hands as the elder vampire began to undress. He watched each button as Angelus slid the small white circles through the holes in his shirt. With each one that was freed, more pale flesh was bared to his hungry eyes. His cock was still hard, straining against the thin fabric of his trousers. He had watched Willow and Cordelia playing in the water for over an hour. His mind flashed back to earlier that evening.

They had worked on the porch for over four hours until they had finally finished enough to make Willow happy. After that, she had suggested going to the river to clean up. He and Angelus had not been sweating despite the heat, but figured it was a good idea to keep up their human image. He almost wished now he'd said no. When they had reached the river, Willow and Cordelia had run into the water, splashing each other like children. Willow's white shirt had become soaked immediately. He had watched it plaster against her skin, her hardened nipples evident to his eyes. He had hardened instantly and his erection hadn't gone away still. Watching her act so childish had made him smile as he struggled to ignore his desire. Luckily, Angelus had huskily suggested that he and William go get a drink while the girls went inside. Willow had thought it a good idea, taking Cordelia in to sit with Drusilla. He and Angelus had hurriedly fed, William's cock still hard. Now, they were back in Angelus' room. "Yeah, really flying."

Angelus pushed his trousers to the floor, his lean body now completely nude and bathed in the soft glow of the lantern. He looked up, his dark eyes darker than normal as he looked at his childe. His cock stood hard and ready, the tip wet. He listened, not hearing Willow's heartbeat. He had seen her at the saloon with Drusilla and Cordelia speaking to Faith and Anya. Good. He had hardly been able to restrain himself at the river. It was getting more tough to not hold Willow...to not touch her or caress her...He could see the tension in his childe and knew that William was close to his breaking point. He had honestly assumed a seduction would not take this long, but he hadn't wanted to rush Willow. He could sense her arousal, growing more each day. She was so close. They might not have to wait much longer. "Quit sounding so sullen, boy. Get undressed."

William looked at his sire and smiled crookedly. He stood in one graceful movement and began undressing. He took his time, a small smirk on his face as his blue eyes ran heatedly over Angelus' body. He could feel his sire watching him, the love and desire evident in his dark eyes. Angelus moved towards him, taking his hand as it went to the button on his trousers. William looked at his sire and smiled. Angelus moved his mouth down, claiming William's mouth almost savagely. His hand drifted down, cupping his childe's obvious erection and squeezing as his teeth bit into the younger man's tongue, small traces of blood causing Angelus' erection to throb even more. "You take too long" Angelus said, chuckling as his fingers easily unfastened William's pants as his mouth again found the younger man's.

William closed his eyes, arching against his sire's cold hand. Long fingers deftly brought his erection to full mast, the liquid being spread over the head of his cock by Angelus. He felt a hard squeeze and his eyes flew open. He saw Angelus watching his face, an amused look in his eyes. "Thinking of someone else, William?"

"With you here? Never" William said honestly. "Wouldn't mind having warm hands on me though...."

Angelus laughed, continuing to stroke his childe. "Soon, my boy."

"I've been hearing that for weeks" William grumbled, groaning softly as Angelus' fingers caressed his balls before journeying back to the head of his cock. "Lots of talk, no action, sire."

Angelus growled playfully, pushing his childe to the bed. "No action?" he raised an eyebrow before crawling up the bed, bending over and running his tongue briefly over William's pulsing cock. His dark eyes having darkened even more as he tasted his childe's juices. He caught William's blue eyes, his lips curling as he saw the need in them. He leaned over, taking the head into his mouth. He watched William's hands clench in the sheets, the muscles in his arms tensing as Angelus took more of his length into his mouth. Angelus kept his eyes on William's, moving slowly at first, his tongue caressing the long shaft on each move. He saw William's eyes narrow as he began to thrust upwards, groans coming from his mouth. Blue eyes flashed yellow as he came, his cool seed going down Angelus' throat.

Angelus pulled his mouth reluctanly from William, licking his lips. He ran two fingers over the seed that had spilled onto William's stomach, wetting his fingers. He moved them underneath his childe, pushing them into his tight ass. His own cock was throbbing, begging for release. From Willow's unknowing teasing earlier to tasting William, he was ready for his own release. He knelt on the bed, pushing the head of his penis into William's tightness. He entered his childe fully, William's head going back as a groan came. Angelus began to move quickly, any hints of foreplay forgotten as need replaced the teasing. He caught William's mouth, their tongues battling as they moved together in a familiar rhythm. Too soon, Angelus felt his balls tighten as he sent his seed into his childe. He bit deep into William's neck, moving his head as he allowed his childe to feed from him.

William licked the wound he had made on his sire's neck. He nuzzled against Angelus, purring softly as he held the man to him. He felt Angelus shift on the bed, moving beside him as his sire's strong arms embraced him. He kissed his sire again, sharing the taste of their own blood before pulling away. He grinned, spent for the time being. "Promise it won't be much longer till we get to seduce her?"

Angelus chuckled, snuggling in the bed. "Promise, my boy. Not much longer...."

*****

Willow followed Angelus and William into the saloon. She let Drusilla's hand go as the woman moved to sit down at one of the empty tables. She moved towards the table where Buffy was working on decorations. "Need any help?"

Buffy looked at the redhead and laughed, "You've been helping all day. I think you need to sit down and rest."

"Rest? There is no rest for the wicked" William said, moving behind Willow and snaking his arm around her waist. He winked at Buffy as he moved his mouth to Willow's ear, "Want to be wicked?"

Willow knew her face was blushing as she mock glared at him, "Not with you" she said loftily, causing him to growl and Buffy to laugh. "Angelus, rescue me from the lascivious advances of your baby brother."

Angelus smirked at William as he took Willow's hand, "I'll always save you from him, Willow."

William snorted, "Yeah, save you for himself."

"Now boys, no arguing" Faith said, a grin on her face as she set out the plates. "You'll make Willow feel bad."

"Yes Mom" they both called out to her, causing all the girls to laugh.

"What's so funny?" Graham asked as he came up to them.

"Faith has decided to adopt Angelus and William" Anya said, laughing at the confusion on the bartender's face.

"Just hush" Faith said, hitting the other girl's arm. She looked at Graham. "They were arguing over who loved Willow the most."

"Again?" he asked, winking at the now red faced redhead. "Must be tough to have two such vocal suitors."

"All of you hush!" Willow said, stamping her foot causing Angelus to wink at William.

"You look lovely when you're angry" the elder vampire said, looking at her with a besotted look.

"The flames make your eyes so fetching" William agreed, taking her hand and placing it near his heart. "Run away with me, pet? We can leave the old man here."

"Old man?" Angelus said lowly. He took Willow's other hand, "Leave the baby here. We can have such fun without him."

"I'd think it would be more fun with you both" Faith remarked lazily, sitting back and enjoying the show. For the past week, the Devlins had seemed to come out of their stupor and were full out pursuing Willow. She had to give them credit for not broaching the idea of sharing with the innocent girl, but she wasn't blind. Willow was in love with them both and would never choose one over the other. They were doing their best to make sure of that, she thought grinning at their plan.

"Faith!" Willow rolled her eyes, knowing her face must be more red than her hair. She stood, pulling her hands from both of their grips. "I'm going to get Dad. We can begin the party when I return."

Watching her leave, Angelus turned to her friends. They were all watching with a knowing look in their eyes as they looked between him and his childe. "Do ye think we have a shot, mates?"

"A shot?" Buffy asked, laughing as she shook her head. "I think you have more than that, mate."

"You approve?" William asked softly, knowing that Willow would never consider what they were trying to seduce her into if she thought her friends' would not approve.

"William, look at us" Anya said, motioning around the saloon. "Our morals are loose and we are looked down upon. Why wouldn't we approve of such a delish act of rebellion against society's ideas of the norm?"

"What she means to say" Faith said, rolling her eyes, "is that hell yeah, we approve. We've never seen Willow happier than she has been these past months. If it takes two of you, so be it. She's always been one ahead of the crowd anyway....."

"On that note, shouldn't we make sure the meal is finished?" Graham asked, smiling slightly.

Willow walked up the stairs to her father's room, cursing her friends with every word she had ever overheard. For the past week, William and Angelus had used every opportunity available to touch her and hold her and smile at her. She couldn't even explain the feelings that these actions were causing in her, but she knew they were getting more difficult to ignore. Tonight they would be almost impossible. It was Giles' birthday so they had closed the Rose down for the night, planning a party with just the family. There would be food, cake and dancing. Being held by one of them while the soft music played. She shivered slightly at the thought. When she was in their arms, it was growing harder to leave. Thankfully, there would be plenty of people around. Xander was on his way, thrilled at having been invited even if the invitation had been given by Willow and not Anya. Cordelia had had to refuse, saying her family was having a special dinner that she was being forced to attend. It had been obvious to Willow that her friend had rather be with her instead of her family, but she hadn't been able to get out of it. Willow knocked on Giles' door, opening it with a smile. "Happy Birthday Dad."

"Thank you, sweetie." Giles smiled at her, "Do they still believe that I don't know about this party?"

"Yep" she said, nodding.

He laughed, "They must find me foolish. To believe I wouldn't be aware of what was happening in my own saloon."

"They want it to be a surprise" she said, kissing his cheek.

"Then it shall" he said, making a surprised face, "What? A party for me? Oh, you shouldn't have."

Willow laughed, taking his arm. "That's very good. Why don't you practice on the way down?"

"I think I shall" he said, smiling as he walked with her to join their family.

*****

"Oh my" Giles said, trying his best to look surprised. "This is such a sweet surprise."

"You're really happy?" Faith asked, moving towards her lover. She smiled hopefully.

"Of course" he replied. He kissed her softly, brushing her hair from her eyes. "Was this your idea?"

She nodded, "I wanted something special for you. Not everyday that a man turns 45."

"Thank God" he said, realizing that he was in love with her. She was barely 20, just a year older than his daughter. Bloody hell, he was more than twice her age. What was he doing expecting her to be content with an old man like himself? She was so beautiful, so full of life. He smiled, patting her hand. "We have cake?"

She was staring at him, a slight frown on her face. She had seen the look in his eyes and wondered what he had been thinking about. She shook her thoughts, deciding it must not have been anything that important. She smiled, "Yep. Cake. But, only after dinner. And then presents."

"I knew there was something I enjoyed about having a birthday" he remarked, winking at her as he went to join the others. She watched him, a slight smile on her face. He may be 45, but he appeared so much younger. It was one of the things she loved about him. She went to join them, sitting beside him as Anya started serving dinner.

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

Willow watched her father unwrap the last gift, laughing as she saw that Buffy had gotten him handkerchiefs. She snuggled closer to William, not even noticing that she was so comfortable against him. His hand lazily drew circles on her shoulder as they watched everyone laughing and talking. She loved moments like these. It was at these times she didn't mind that she was an orphan or that she had grown up in a bordello/saloon/hotel. She had people that loved her and that she loved. Many wealthy people she knew didn't couldn't say that. She watched her father and Faith, picking up on little things she hadn't noticed before. Now that she was in love, she was able to see the signs easier.

She felt a hand take hers as her palm began to be massaged. She looked over at Angelus, smiling softly and a bit sleepily. She rolled her head against William's shoulder as she watched Angelus, transfixed by the look in his eyes. He was happy, that was obvious. His dark eyes continued to stare into hers as he brought her hand to his mouth. He kissed the palm, moving his cool lips along her fingers. She felt a strange heat in her stomach as he took one of her fingers into his mouth. Her eyes narrowed as he sucked it into his mouth, his tongue caressing it slowly as he drew it out. She felt William's hand on her shoulder, his fingers deepening in their massage. She watched Angelus move to another finger, all sounds and voices fading as she concentrated on the feel of William and Angelus as they touched her.

Angelus felt himself hardening as he watched her pupils dilate. She licked her lips, her head against William's shoulder. He could hear her heart beating, faster and faster. In the air, he could also smell the faint scent of her arousal. As he moved to another finger, the arousal was becoming more thick and evident. She was getting so close. He and William had been persistent in their pursuit of her the past week. It did seem to be working, finally. After almost ten weeks, they were finally getting close to having her succumb to them. He couldn't wait to sink into her tight wetness. To fall asleep with her in his arms as William lay nestled against her chest. The image alone was making him hard. He watched her eyes close slightly as he nuzzled her palm with his mouth. He smiled slightly, knowing they almost had her.

"Willow!" a voice called out, sounding almost panicked.

Willow's eyes flew open as she pulled her hand from Angelus'. She glanced around, noticing that no one had noticed her lapse. Well, almost no one she ammended as Faith winked at her. She stood, her eyes wide as she looked towards the entryway. "Cordelia?"

Cordelia came into the room, her hair falling from its pins. She was crying, her face streaked with water. She set the bag down and ran into Willow's awaiting arms. "Oh God, Willow. Help me."

*****

"What's wrong?" Willow asked, surprised by Cordelia's appearance. She pulled back, noticing that her friend wouldn't let go of her arm. "What happened? Are you hurt?" Cordelia shook her head, laughing almost hysterically. "Not hurt. My God..what have I done?"

"Cordelia, what happened?" Giles asked, frowning.

She looked at him, her eyes wide. "I left."

"Left what?" Willow asked, moving to sit down at one of the tables, Cordelia still holding on tightly to her arm.

Angelus leaned forward, his eyes taking in the girl's appearance. She looked agitated, her appearance messy for the first time since he had met her. He noticed the way she was holding on to Willow and frowned. Something had scared her. "Cordelia, would you like something to drink?"

"Something strong?" Cordelia asked, smiling thankfully at the dark haired man. She felt Willow squeeze her hand and looked at the worried redhead. She smiled sheepishly. "Sorry for being so dramatic."

"It's ok. What happened?" Willow asked.

"That special dinner tonight?" Cordelia said, spitting out the words.

"Yeah?" Willow asked, honestly considering smacking her friend if she didn't start talking soon.

"My family is moving to St. Louis" Cordelia said, sighing.

"NO!" Willow said, frowning.

"Oh, that wasn't the worst" Cordelia said, taking the drink from Angelus. She looked at it, studying it's dark contents before shrugging and gulping it down. It burned slightly as it went down her throat causing her eyes to water. She put the glass down and saw Willow staring at her expectantly. "Tonight, I met Jonas Wilson."

"Who?" Giles asked, not recognizing the name.

Cordelia looked at them, disgust and anger entering her dark eyes. "My husband!"

"You're what?" Graham demanded, not realizing how irritated he sounded.

"My husband" she said again, hissing the word. "My dear sweet parents decided to sell me to him for a better deal on their new house."

"You're joking" Willow said, squeezing her hand tighter.

Cordelia snorted, "I wish. God, Willow. He was so gross. He had gray hair. Gray hair! He was so old and disgusting. He smelled like sweat and dirt. He was fat and hairy and looked at me with the most horrid look. He made my skin crawl."

"What are you going to do?" Willow whispered.

Cordelia shrugged, smiling weakly. "I left. I told my parents to go to Hell and that if they wanted him in the family, they could marry him because I'd die before I did. There was a lot of screaming and threatening. I packed my bag, leaving everything they'd ever bought me. I don't want anything to do with them. Ever again. I'm nineteen years old. I'm old enough to make my own decisions. Besides, I was only a possession for them anyway."

Faith looked at the pretty girl, seeing the look of utter hopelessness in her eyes as she remembered what had just happened to her. She sighed, knowing what future awaited the girl. She stood, moving to put some food on a plate and hand it to the girl. She smiled softly, "You look like you could use some food."

"I didn't really eat anything. Not after that fat man came over" Cordelia said, taking the plate. "Thank you."

"Not a problem" Faith said, moving to sit back down.

"You really told them to go to Hell?" William asked, raising an eyebrow.

She nodded enthusiastically, swallowing. "Sure did. Can you believe them? Wanting to trade me for lower rent!"

"You're worth far more than a lower rent payment" Willow said, smiling slightly.

Cordelia looked at her, her lips twitching. She started to giggle, her head falling to Willow's shoulder. "God, this is terrible isn't it? Like something out of one of those books you read."

"If it matters, I'm proud of you" Willow said, smiling softly. She knew how hard it must have been for Cordelia to walk away from everything because of her values.

Cordelia smiled shakily, "Of course it matters." She yelped suddenly. "Oh my God....I left home. What am I going to do?"

"You can work here" Giles said. He heard several gasps and saw Willow glaring at him. He suddenly laughed. "Not in the saloon. No offense girls, but Cordelia Chase doesn't belong in a saloon."

"You can say that again" Buffy said, smiling fondly at the brunette girl. Despite her wealth, Cordelia had never once treated her badly. She had to admire the girl for standing up to her parents too.

"The hotel!" Willow said, smiling at Cordelia. "It's perfect. You can have the other room upstairs by mine and help me around the place during the day."

"I couldn't impose" Cordelia protested weakly, her eyes shining with happiness at the idea of living and working at the Rose.

"Say that one more time with conviction" Angelus said, laughing.

"I wouldn't have asked if it was a problem" Giles said. He smiled fondly at the girl he considered almost a daughter. "Willow could use some help around the hotel. She's otherwise occupied most evenings lately so I'm sure she'd love some help."

"Dad!" Willow said, laughing. She looked at Cordelia. "You have to say yes. We can get your room set up and everything. It will be such fun."

Cordelia smiled at her friend, the night suddenly looking much better. She laughed as Willow glared at her, "Yes."

*****

Drusilla stood in the doorway, her dark eyes watching the pretty girl unpack her small bag. She leaned her head against the frame, noticing how little Cordelia had brought with her. "Is that all you have left, lovey?"

Cordelia looked up, gasping slightly. "Oh my, you startled me. I didn't realize you were there."

Drusilla smiled slightly, "Sorry. I didn't mean to sneak."

"It's all right" Cordelia said, sitting on her bed and glancing around her. "But, to answer your question, yes. That's all I have. There are very few things I owned that my parents didn't buy me. Most of these things I made with material from the girls here or Willow got me for various holidays."

"I love Willow" Drusilla said simply, a soft smile on her face.

Cordelia smiled, "I honestly don't believe anyone with a soul wouldn't love her. She's just so special. Where is our favorite redhead by the way?"

Drusilla laughed, "Where ever my brothers are, I'm sure."

"She does seem smitten with them both, though I can understand why" Delia said, smiling.

"They love her."

"Yes, they do" Cordelia agreed. She had been watching the Devlins on the few chances she had had and could honestly say that they were both in love with her best friend.

"They shall take care of Willow always and forever." Drusilla said, having heard William and Angelus discuss seducing the girl. She also knew that they would not be changing the girl anytime soon. She had been relieved to hear that, knowing that it was not Willow's time to become one of them yet. Not for a few more years according to the stars.

Cordelia sighed, leaning against the headboard. "Always and forever. That sounds nice. To be loved by someone like that...."

Drusilla stepped into the room, moving towards the pretty girl. She lifted Delia's face and smiled, "Your bartender will notice you. The stars have sang it. It shall come to pass."

Cordelia laughed softly, "I wish I could have that much faith in the stars and their song."

"You just have not listened the right way" Drusilla said, smiling. "You do not see the courage in your soul. Accept your strength and all will be well."

"There's a right way to listen to the stars?" Cordelia asked, mesmerized by this woman's eyes. She now understood what Willow had tried to explain before. Drusilla Devlin could see things that others couldn't. Willow had also told her that Dru was teaching her to notice things and that she could hear the stars. Cordelia had thought her friend to only be humoring the slightly daft woman, but looking into Dru's eyes, Delia knew that Willow was right. There were things that couldn't be explained and just had to be accepted even if there was no understanding. "Will you teach me?"

Drusilla smiled as she nodded, "Of course I shall. I am already teaching Willow so why not her kindred sister?"

"Thank you" Cordelia said, pushing away all the doubts that had been plaguing her mind upon her leaving home. She felt finally as if it had been the right thing to do, knowing somehow that the stars had sung it so it was meant to be. She smiled, patting the bed. "Why don't you introduce me to your dolls? Willow has told me so many things about them all...."

*****

Willow watched William put the last basket on the back of the wagon and laughed, "Are you sure we aren't moving?"

William glanced at her and then back at the wagon where several baskets and bags were placed. He smiled, winking at her, "You guessed my plan, pet. I intend to run away with and keep you all to myself. Darn, I guess I'll have to share you after all."

Willow smiled, ignoring the rather pleasant heat that filled her body at his words. She actually didn't find the idea of being with just William all that distasteful but she loved Angelus and would never seriously consider being with one instead of both. They were both part of her life now. "I meant that it certainly doesn't look as if we are just going for a midnight picnic, you silly man."

"Ah, so I'm silly now am I?" William asked, a sly smile crossing his lips. "Shall I show you how silly I can be?"

"Go ahead and show her!" Cordelia yelled down from Willow's balcony where she and Drusilla were sitting to watch their friend and the stars.

"Stay out of this!" Willow yelled back up, smiling as she glared at the laughing women. She was happy that Cordelia had been able to accept Drusilla so well. Her two good friends were now friends. In fact, with the time she spent in the evenings with Angelus and William, Cordelia and Drusilla had spent even more time together. She was glad that Delia had someone to lean on during this change in her life. She knew the doves liked the former rich girl, but none of them really knew her. And they were far too busy in the evenings to spend time with the girl. So, Drusilla had taken on the duty of entertaining Delia. Willow knew Dru was trying to convinced Del that Graham could be interested in her. Del was still not believing either of them, but Willow had been the one he had sought out in the mornings to ask about Delia, to ensure that she was all right and adjusting to everything. Those two amused in her in a way, seeking information without confronting each other. "William, of course I don't think you're silly."

"Eh, now you change your tune" he said, moving steadily towards her. They were waiting on Angelus, who had had to run an errand. William knew he was feeding and figured they had at least another fifteen minutes to wait. Tonight was their picnic. He had been eagerly awaiting it since they had agreed to seduce Willow. It was already the end of September and they hadn't even stolen any proper kisses. He realized that going slow was for the best, but it didn't give him any extra patience. He saw Willow backing away from him, amusement in her green eyes. He laughed, giving up any pretense of sneaking and lunged for her.

Willow moved from his grasp, turning and running as she fled him. She laughed, her hair falling from its pins as she ran along the porch and just generally tried to avoid his catching her. She heard him laughing and knew somehow that had he wanted, he could have caught her easily. There had to be something to his being a vampire and catching food. Luckily, he was just chasing her to kill time and have fun. "You can't catch me, old man. Give it up!"

William heard her challenge and laughed. "Old man? As if I am that much older than you, little one! Never dare a Devlin, Red. We take it as an insult against the family and thus feel the need to prove we are supreme."

"Supreme talkers maybe" she called out, laughing at his mock look of outrage. She ran around the side of the barn, hearing the horses milling around inside. She stopped, her breathing ragged from the running, as she collected her wits. She waited, looking suspiciously the way she had come, expecting him any moment and knowing she would be off and running again.

William crept around the side of the barn, seeing her facing the way she had run. He smiled, moving behind her slowly. She smelled of sweat and powder and mixed with the air that smelled of manure and hay. Yet, he had never found a scent quite so intoxicating. Any fragrance on Willow would captivate him, just as she did. He stepped on a branch, causing her to turn, her eyes wide from the surprise of him coming up behind her. He grabbed her before she could run, bringing her laughing body into his. "Gotcha."

"Point proven" Willow said, laughing. "Silly can be fun."

"Was that what my point was?" he asked, the smile fading from his lips as his eyes darkened. She was pressed rather intimately against him, her eyes sparkling as she smiled. So very beautiful.

She looked into his eyes, her own smile fading as she saw something unfamiliar yet rather exciting in his blue eyes. She became aware of his hard body pressed against hers and felt that heat again spread over her. She couldn't move her eyes from his, running her tongue along her lips as her mouth suddenly became dry. She heard him groan and before she knew what was happening, his lips were pressed against hers. Not a chaste little kiss on the forehead or hand. No, this was far different. She felt his hands move behind her back as he continued to press his lips against hers. She had no idea what to do. She had never been kissed before, not like this, and somehow knew there must be more to it. This was nice, in fact it was very pleasant to feel him against her. She cursed the clothing keeping their skin from touching and felt mortified at her thoughts. She pulled back, shocked at her behaviour and the direction of her thoughts. "I'm so sorry."

William closed his eyes slightly, counting to ten and cursing the fact that such a simply innocent kiss could make him so hard. He couldn't imagine what he would be experiencing when she was laying in his bed, her warm body nude to his eyes. Not the thing to be thinking about right now, William, he scolded mentally. "It was my fault. I'm sorry. I shouldn't have been so forward." Forward? Who was he kidding? He wanted to shag her there against the barn or anywhere or everywhere he could and he was claiming a simple, close mouthed kiss had been forward? What he wouldn't do for her.

"No, it's all right" she said softly, bringing her fingers to her mouth and looking at him, not realizing he could see the desire in her eyes, causing him to groan again. "It was nice."

He smiled slightly, "Nice, huh?"

She nodded, "Surprising, but nice." She glanced towards the hotel, knowing Angelus may be there soon. She smiled, letting him know it was all right. "We should head back and wait for Angelus."

William smiled, knowing his sire would be irritated that he had broken down and given into the temptation of stealing even a chaste kiss. Angelus had plans for that evening, that William knew. Hopefully, his kiss had just helped their plans meet a more receptive Willow. She did desire him, a fact that made him rather proud. "Yes, you're right. Can't keep big brother waiting, though I'd much prefer to stay back here and steal a few more kisses. Are you sure we must leave?"

She laughed, a faint blush stealing across her cheeks as she hooked her arm through his, "You're incorrigible. Just think of the fun of the picnic. No more stolen kisses....." she added softly, keeping her eyes straight ahead, "Tonight at least."

William heard her words, his smile spreading even more. Yes, maybe taking it slow had been a pain but it seemed to be working. He began to whistle a tune he had heard from Angelus as they made their way back to the hotel and the wagon, his mind flashing through images of what he wished he and Willow and his sire were going to be doing instead of having a picnic. Soon, he promised himself. After that simple taste of her, he knew he had to have more. "Yes, Miss Willow. We'll go find Angelus and enjoy this picnic."

*****

"You were right, Willow" Angelus said, looking at the area they had chosen for their picnic. "This is truly beautiful."

There was a small river, one of two according to Willow, that they had unpacked their picnic beside. Even in the dark, the simple beauty of the trees and river was evident. His dark eyes looked around the area, liking what he saw. He glanced at Willow and William, a small smile crossing his lips. He loved them both dearly, in similar yet different ways. He had seen the rather arrogant look in his childe's blue eyes and knew somehow that William had stolen a kiss. Well, he planned to steal several before the evening was complete. If ever there was a scene for seduction, this was it.

"Isn't it?" Willow agreed, spreading out the blanket. "I used to love coming here as a child. On Easter, Xander would have the children come out to play and there would be a large picnic for everyone. It was such fun."

"All those people here?" William asked, glancing around the area.

"No. Down the river some. This is my special spot. Where I come sometimes when I just need to get away from things" Willow said, a soft smile on her face.

"It is very special" Angelus said quietly, knowing that it had taken a lot for her to share this place with him and William. "Just as you are."

"Oh please" Willow laughed, sitting on the blanket. "Shall we eat now or listen to the stars?"

Angelus glanced at William and then back at her. "I believe we should lay and listen to the stars for a bit. I'm not very hungry at the moment. Are you?"

"No, actually I'm not" Willow said, watching him and William move towards the two blankets she had spead out for them. She watched them sit, simply enjoying their beauty by the lantern light they had set out. They were both so beautiful, yet masculine at the same time. Such power and control she could see in their movements. Again, images of them without their clothes entered her mind. Groaning at her bad thoughts, she cursed Faith for bringing the idea into her head in the first place. She had been talking with the girls that morning when the brunette had asked if she had seen them naked yet. She had said that only with their shirts off which had started a rather detailed discussion with the girls about whom would look better unclothed. Now, she couldn't look at either of them without remembering the rather vivid images the doves had painted. She'd kill them all, she decided darkly.

Angelus could hear her heart racing and could even smell the faint hints of arousal coming from her. He smiled, laying against the blanket and looking at the stars. "Lay back, Willow. You can't watch the stars if you are watching us."

William laughed at Willow's gasp and watched as she laid back immediately. "So, we're better to watch than the stars, eh pet?"

"Oh hush" Willow mumbled, deciding to add both of them to the list of whom she was going to kill. Embarrassing her on purpose for their entertainment. Damn fool men, she thought crossly.

Angelus laid there watching the sky but not seeing anything except Willow in his mind. Tonight, he was planning on making the first big step in their seduction. It was going to take all of his control, and William's, not to rush things. They were both so taken by the girl it would be difficult to move slowly, but they had been rather successful the last months. Now, it was time to begin moving forward. Willow was ready. That he knew. She would not be scared away if they did this properly. He had no intention of scaring of her at all.

"This is nice" William said, listening to Willow's breathing and the sounds of the night. The air was clean in smell, the scent of their horses the only smell besides Willow and the night. "I like this place."

"It is lovely" Willow agreed, her eyes finding the large moon overhead. She heard movement and glanced to see Angelus sitting up. "Everything all right?"

Angelus looked at her, amazed at how beautiful she could look in the simple light from the lantern. "Yes. I have a surprise. Just lay back."

"Yes Master" she said, amused by his tone. Suddenly she smiled, "A surprise? Really?"

William groaned, "You'll spoil the child if you keep this up, Ang."

"She deserves to be spoiled" was Angelus' response.

Willow looked at William and stuck her tongue out, giggling as he made a face back at her. She heard Angelus laugh as he said, "Children, can we please remember that you may freeze your faces that way?"

"Yes Dad" they chorused, laughing.

"My surprise?" Willow asked, moving up to rest on her elbows. She saw that he had a small sack and a curious look entered her eyes.

"I sent for these after hearing you talking with Drusilla" Angelus said smoothly, opening the sack and pulling one of the fruits out.

"Peaches?" William said, having sat up to see what the surprise was.

Willow smiled, "I love peaches! Where ever did you find them? They aren't in season anymore."

Angelus shrugged, not wanting her to know he had run into a vampire that had been on his way to Georgia. The demon had promised to send him some of the fruit as soon as he returned to his plantation. The box had arrived two days before. He'd been happy to see that, while the fruit was not really in season, that it was ripe and ready to eat. "I knew you loved them and sent away for them."

William had to laugh at the sheepish look on Angelus' face. This beat all. Sending away for a fruit because Willow enjoyed eating it. Yes, they were completely under her spell. "Peaches. I like that. If that doesn't beat all......"

"Would you like to taste one?" Angelus asked Willow, glaring at William as he ran his thumb over the fruit in his hand.

"Of course" Willow said, touched that he had gone to such trouble for her.

Angelus moved to her side, a smile on his face that sent shivers along her spine. "Lay back."

She obeyed, curiosity in her eyes as she watched him. He moved the peach over her face, his thumbs breaking it open above her mouth. She opened her mouth to catch the juices that spilled, laughing as they dribbled down her chin. "Juicy, aren't they?"

Angelus felt himself harden as he saw her licking at the juices around her mouth. He laid one half of the peach on the blanket, keeping the other above her mouth. He split that one in half, again watching her capture the sweet juice in her mouth. He moved part of the fruit against her lips, watching her teeth sink into it as she bit off a piece. He kept his eyes on her face as she chewed, seeing her eyes darken slightly as he rubbed the end of the fruit against her lips. She took another bite, her teeth brushing gently against his fingers as she bit down. She finished that part and he had another waiting. He fed that one to her, slowly teasing her mouth with it before allowing her to bite. He noticed that William had moved closer, his childe's eyes dark with desire as he watched them.

"More?" Angelus asked, his voice husky in the still night air.

Willow could feel the sticky juices on her chin and figured she must look a mess. The peaches were tasty though and she again wondered where he had sent for them from. She couldn't understand the feelings in her body. There was an ache in her breasts and an itch between her legs. She rubbed her thighs together slightly, trying to alleviate said itch. Her entire body was on fire from something as simple as eating a peach. Of course, she had never eaten that way before. The feel of his fingers against her lips caused more heat to spread over her as she nodded, "Please?"

Angelus picked up the other half of the peach and proceeded to rip it into several sections over her mouth, watching her mouth open as she caught the juices. He felt his demon straining forward, wanting to claim her but he pushed it back. She was so ready, that was evident in the way she was rubbing her legs together and moving on the blanket. Her arousal was thick in the air and he saw the slightly confused look in her eyes as she ate the fruit he offered. She had no idea what her body was telling her. He smiled softly, running the fruit down her throat and along her neck before moving it back to her lips. He watched her eat the last slice, her breathing ragged as she lay on the blankets.

"Was it good?" he asked, watching her nod.

"Yes. Did you taste it?" she asked, surprised by the husky tone in her voice. She caught his eyes as they darkened, paralyzed as they looked into hers.

"No, but I'd like to" he said, running his hand along her jaw.

"Are there more?" she whispered, moving her face into his caress.

"I was thinking of just tasting this one" he said, moving his head down and capturing her lips.

Willow gasped in surprise as she found herself being kissed for the second time that day. She felt Angelus' tongue running along her lips, wondering what he was doing. She felt him open her mouth, whimpering as his tongue entered her mouth. She felt herself drowning as he explored her mouth with his tongue, coaxing her own into his mouth. She moved her hand to his head, linking her fingers into his thick hair as she kissed him back, learning from him as their mouths moved against each others. This was a true kiss, she realized. And she'd felt embarrassed from the simple touching of lips she had had with William. Golly, if she'd only realized what she was missing.

Angelus continued to explore her mouth, careful to keep his hands on her face. He wanted tonight to simply be a kiss. She was going to have to get used to the kissing before they moved things further along. He felt a hand touch his neck, recognizing William's touch instantly. He heard a softly playful growl and knew his childe wanted to taste too. Reluctantly, he pulled his mouth from Willow's. He looked at William and said, "Taste."

William needed no second command. His mouth claimed Willow's in a heated kiss as he caught her lips with his. Willow could feel the urgency in William's kiss, meeting it with passion of her own. This is what they should have done beside the barn. This is what a kiss should be. She felt his hands brushing against her face as he continued to make love to her mouth. She gasped, allowing him to take advantage of her open mouth when she felt cool lips on her chin. Angelus began to slowly lick the peach juice from her neck and chin, his mouth sucking her flesh as he cleaned it. She couldn't comprehend the pleasure that was running through her body as both men's lips and tongues caressed her.

William pulled away finally, remembering that she needed to breathe. He saw her face, the swollen lips, the mussed hair, the desire filled eyes. Groaning softly, he knew it was not time to possess her completely but he still wanted to. He ran his tongue over his lips, the taste of her and the fruit still flavoring them. "Are you OK?"

Willow nodded, gasping for breath as she sat up and ran a hand through her hair. She looked at them both, her eyes confused. "What just happened?"

"It was just a kiss" Angelus said softly, brushing a lock of hair from her face.

"Yeah, just a kiss" William echoed, smiling slightly at the disbelief he saw in her eyes.

"Wow" she whispered, gulping as she steadied her racing heart. "Is it always like that?"

"No" Angelus said shortly, not wanting her to get ideas to experiment with other men. "Just with us."

"Oh" she replied, smiling slightly. Somehow, she believed what he said was true. There was something between the three of them that made everything seem more special. "Will we be able to do it again?"

William laughed, "Yeah, what about it Peaches? Can we do it again?"

Peaches? Angelus thought crossly. Trust his childe to take this situation and find a new annoying nick name for him. Well, that at least was better than some the brunette had come up with in the past. "Of course we can. But, now, we eat. Willow is probably hungry."

"Quite" she said softly, her body still humming in excitement from the kiss. She sighed, thankful that she had finally been truly kissed but wondering when things would move farther along. She wasn't a harlot, but she was finding it increasingly more difficult to leave them each night. She wanted nothing more than awake in their bed, nestled between their cool, hard bodies. Ok, she ammended silently. Maybe she was a harlot. Her eyes ran over them as they prepared the meal from the baskets. No, not a harlot. Just normal she decided smiling as she took the plate from Angelus.

*****

Drusilla sat on the back porch, her dark eyes watching the stars. Cordelia had gone to sleep a couple of hours before and Willow was still on the picnic. Dru smiled softly, wondering if Angelus and William had finally made a move. She was proud of them both for going so slowly with the redhead, but it had been more than two months and they had not even kissed her. She understood the idea of courting, and knew that Willow was overwhelmed by their slow seduction. She also knew that Willow was more than ready to progress to the next step. Dru could hear the music from the saloon, the laughter and talking. She didn't like going in there without Willow and her family.

She liked the people she had met. Willow's friends were very nice, each in their own way. And Willow's father was a very good man. Dru could see it in his eyes and his soul. She just wasn't that fond of the patrons of the saloon. All of them were loud, noisy men that smelled bad. She heard the back door to the hotel open and looked up, smiling softly. "Good evening."

Faith smiled at the dark haired woman. "Hiya Dru. I didn't know anyone was out here."

"I love the night" Drusilla said simply, looking back at the sky.

Faith sat on the edge of the porch beside Dru. She looked at the sky and smiled, "Me too. One reason I love working at the saloon. It was just getting stifling in there at the moment."

"It is pleasant here tonight. I feel a change in the weather." Dru said, enjoying the chill that was starting to affect the evening air.

Faith smiled, "So, tonight was the picnic?"

Dru laughed, "Yes. I don't expect them back until close to dawn."

"That late?" Faith said, shaking her head. "Those three amuse me. The girls and I have small wagers placed on how much longer they are going to allow Willow to remain free."

"Free?" Dru asked, turning her head to look at Faith. "In what way free?"

Faith laughed, "Single, untouched, pure. Anya does not believe marriage has entered your brothers minds. Buffy of course believes they will both propose in some romantic setting and Willow shall be forced to choose."

Drusilla smiled, "And you? What do you believe?"

Faith shrugged, "I think they both love her dearly and if society was different they would be content to live and share her life. But, I believe they are going so slowly with her because they care about her. I think that they will all three live together happily for many many years after one of them becomes Willow's husband to stop the gossip before it begins. Which one? Now, that I honestly don't know."

"You have studied them" Dru said, neither agreeing or disagreeing. She herself had no idea what her sire and brother had planned. Knowing them as she did, she would be inclined to believe Faith. One of them would stand beside Willow in a ceremony for her friends and family while they would both claim her in a ceremony for their kind. They could both choose her as a permanent mate but she knew that Willow's friends and family would not be content to see her living in sin with two men. No, she'd place her wager on a wedding ceremony taking place sometime in the redhead's future.

"Yeah. Nothing much else to do" Faith said, smiling. She knew that Drusilla was aware of her feelings for Willow. She dearly loved the redhead as a sister and, in some ways, almost felt like her mother. She'd of course kept her eyes on Willow's suitors. She had no intention of letting Willow live with them both after their relationships progressed to the next level without some sort of security. If that meant marriage to one of them, so be it. But, she didn't think it would come to a threat. The Devlins loved Willow and would never want her to be put in an awkward situation. She had faith in them both. "I normally would think that Angelus would wed her. He is the eldest and seems to be the father figure. I wonder though if it won't be William. He seems to be the most persistent, even from the beginning. He is also the most impatient of the two brothers, leading me to believe that he will be the husband."

Drusilla laughed, "I assume that will become another wager for you all."

Faith shook her head, "Nah. I don't really care which one it is. I like them both a lot. They are good men and I think they'll take real good care of Willow. That's all I ask."

"They will" Drusilla said softly. "She will always be taken care of, forever and always. Have no doubts about that."

"Well, with you as her sister, I think I can believe that." Faith said, knowing the Devlin sister would watch out for Willow. She smiled, "Thank you for listening to talk about this. It really helps to verbalize my thoughts."

"Any time" Dru answered, glad that she now knew a little bit more about what Willow's friends thought about everything.

"I'd better get back inside and help out. With Winter coming, we'll start getting slower at the Rose. I'm actually looking forward to that."

"Do you ever tire of it?" Dru asked, curious. "Bedding the men for money?"

Faith sighed, "I haven't really worked like that in months. Since I got involved with Giles, I've been helping out in other ways. But, yes. I enjoyed it mostly because it irritated my parents. That's the only reason I even began working at the saloon. It isn't a fun job. I tried to enjoy it but how many times can you take a man between your legs and still enjoy it? Buffy hates it. She wants nothing more than to become a wife and mother. Anya doesn't like it but she's holding out until she has enough money to take care of herself. She doesn't want to depend on any man. Me? Well, I'll do it when I need to. It's about the only chance any of us girls have in this kind of world. But, no, I don't like it at all."

"I couldn't think how you could." Dru said softly. "You love Willow's father, do you not?"

Faith smiled softly, "Yes. Very much. Do you love anyone?"

Drusilla couldn't answer that question truthfully. She loved Angelus and William and Willow with all her being. They were her family and much more. Faith would not understand those feelings though. "Yes, for many years."

Faith nodded, accepting the woman's words without questions. "I'm glad. Everyone should love."

"I agree" Dru replied, looking back to the moon.

"I'd better get going, for real this time" Faith said, laughing softly. "Would you like something to eat or drink? I could get you something before I go back to work."

"I'm fine but thank you" Drusilla said, hoping that Willow was enjoying her picnic.

"Take care" Faith said, opening the door and walking back into the Rose.

*****

"I can't eat another bite" Willow said, groaning as she set the plate down.

"How was it, luv?"

"Truly delicious, as always" Willow responded.

"You will have to thank Susan when we return" Angelus said smiling at her.

"You two have her so wrapped around your fingers" Willow laughed, thinking of the grumpy older woman that cooked for the Rose. The woman practically melted everytime the Devlin boys wandered into her kitchen asking for this treat or that.

"Nah, we just know that the way to a woman's heart is through her stomach" William said, amusement in his eyes.

"Well, it appears that it is working then" Willow replied, smiling. "I think I must have gained thirty pounds in the past two months."

"Not quite that much" Angelus said, his tone amused.

"You can trust Peaches" William said, laughing, "I know he's been looking."

"Stupid brat" Angelus said, rolling his eyes. "You look beautiful Willow."

"Thank you" she said, laughing as she laid back on the blankets and looked at the sky. "This has been such a fantastic night."

"Yes, it has" Angelus agreed as he took her hand, his fingers running along her palm. "This is truly a magical place."

"I've enjoyed it" William said, laying back on the blanket beside her. He turned his head, memorizing the details of her face bathed in the moonlight. He wanted to remember every detail of this night. He watched her lick her lips as she smiled, the happiness evident on her face. He leaned over and watched her eyes as she looked at him. He brushed his lips against hers, softly kissing her.

Willow accepted his kiss eagerly. The gentle brushing of his lips against hers deepened as her hand moved behind his head, her fingers becoming entangled in his soft brown hair. Their bodies moved closer together as William explored her mouth leisurely. Angelus sat up, his eyes on the two people he loved most in the world. He moved closer, a small smile on his face. He brushed a lock of red hair from Willow's face, watching as she passionately met William's kiss. The moonlight just made her face all the more beautiful. He moved his other hand to William's face, running his fingers over his childe's smooth cheek. So handsome. They made a striking pair, he acknowledged. Leaning over, he brushed his lips over William's cheek and then did the same to Willow. He then got to his feet, smiling as he watched them continue to kiss.

The feeling of jealousy never entered his mind as he walked away from them. They had an eternity together and he was sure that during that time there would be instances when he was alone with Willow just as there would be times William would be monopolizing the girl. He certainly didn't want William to be angry or jealous during the times that he had Willow to himself. That would not make for a happy unlife. He looked at his surroundings as he walked. It truly was a magical place, as he had told Willow. This area of Harris' land was magnificent. He could understand why Willow loved it here. The natural beauty complimented her beauty perfectly. He let his eyes take in the river and trees, knowing how nice it must be in the sunlight.

He continued walking, knowing that William and Willow could use some time alone. He wasn't an idiot. He could see the obvious sparks between them. He knew the sparks existed between him and Willow also, but there was a bit more heat between his childe and the redhead. He accepted that, knowing that he and Drusilla had a bit more of a connection than she had with Spike. He was glad that Willow did love him. A fact evident every time she looked at him. He knew she was probably unaware that she was more attracted to William than to him. Just another part of her charm. He had been able to kiss her several times throughout dinner anyway. It was William's turn. He was by no means an unfair man. He could share with the ones he loved. He turned finally, seeing the light of the lantern in the distance. He began to walk back slowly, his mind caught in thoughts of their future.

When he made it back to the blanket, he was surprised to see Willow and William sitting opposite each other, talking quietly. Willow's hair was mussed and her lips were swollen slightly. She looked up at him and smiled, her eyes sparkling. "Did you enjoy your walk?"

"Yes. Did you enjoy your kiss?" he asked, amused as she blushed.

"Yes" she responded, smiling shyly. She looked at the sky, sighing, "I think it's time we leave. There are only a couple more hours until dawn and it shall take half of one of those to make it home."

"Eh, luv. Why rush?" William said, giving his sire a wink. "I thought we'd take a nice long ride back to the Rose. Steal a few kisses along the way. Enjoy this enchanted evening a bit longer."

"Well, winter is coming" Willow said, smiling. "We won't have many more nights we can enjoy the air."

"She really just wants more kisses" Angelus said, laughing softly.

"Actually, yes, I do like the kisses" she confessed, enjoying just being with them. "But it is getting colder too."

"Winter means nothing, pet" William said. "We can keep you warm."

"Tell me that during the middle of January" she said, smiling as she took Angelus hand as he helped her stand.

"I shall, Red" William said, picking up the picnic materials.

"Winter here can be rather rough. Does it get very cold where you are from?" Willow asked, helping gather the picnic items.

"Sometimes but it doesn't affect us" Angelus said, loading the wagon. "We're rather used to it."

"I love winter" Willow said, climbing into the wagon. "The snow means that it doesn't smell of cows and manure. Plus, the town isn't so crowded. We don't have many travelers through town during the winter months. I love being cold so I really enjoy it."

"I can't wait" William said, sitting beside her. He was glad that she liked the cold. He did too. Winter at home was always his favorite time. Summer was just too warm. He put his arm around her shoulders as Angelus climbed onto the wagon. Smiling, he said, "Home, Peaches."

Angelus rolled his eyes, taking Willow's hand with his free one and starting the horses moving with the other. "Back to the Rose it is, my boy."

*****

Willow woke up with a smile on her face. She, William and Angelus had enjoyed their picnic, taking over an hour to get back to Harrington. She had been kissed underneath the moonlight by both of them. She had honestly never imagined that something as normal as a kiss could be so exciting. Yet, that gentle brushing of their lips against hers had kept her awake most the night. She couldn't understand why she couldn't sleep but every time her eyes had closed she had felt them touching her again. Her body had ached in places she wasn't aware of just from thinking of them. She smiled, not disliking the feeling. She got dressed, washing her face and then headed downstairs.

"Good morning" Cordelia said, looking up and smiling at Willow as the redhead came into sight.

"You're up early" Willow said, smiling at her friend.

Cordelia made a face. "I couldn't sleep. Ran into my mother last night."

"Ran into her?" Willow said, frowning as she sat down. Cordelia had been with them for a week and hadn't heard from her family since that night she had left.

"She came here looking me actually. It wasn't a lot of fun" Cordelia said, sighing. "They're moving. She gave me one last chance to either marry that creep or I was no longer one of the family. They would forget I existed."

"Well, since you're still here I assume you told her to keep the money?" Willow said, reaching for Delia's hand and squeezing.

"In not so many words" Cordelia said, smiling. "So, they're gone. Leaving today. And you know what's really sad?"

"What?"

"I don't care" Cordelia laughed, "I mean, I'm upset because she said some really mean things and I know she meant them. I can't believe my own mother would think those things much less say them. She really does hate me. But, she's gone. I'm really happy that she's gone."

"I'm sorry" Willow said, hating Delia's mother but glad that she had left Harrington too.

"I'm a big girl. I can handle it" Cordelia smiled. "So, how was the grand picnic? Willow Anne Rosen. Judging by that blush on your cheeks, you better start talking!"

"I got kissed" Willow said, laughing softly.

"Oh my. Which one?" Cordelia said, her problems with her mother forgotten as she leaned forward eager for details.

"Well, William first. It was just this brief little peck but it was amazing. And then, on the picnic, well, Angelus bought me peaches" she drifted off, knowing that she wasn't going to give details on that particular part of the evening. "He kissed me so softly, I can still feel his lips brushing mine."

Cordelia sighed, "You are so fortunate, Willow. To have two men like Angelus and William Devlin love you. I envy that and if we weren't best friends I'd hate you!"

Willow laughed, "One day you'll find someone to love too, Delia."

"I keep telling myself that and then I remember that I'm almost twenty and unmarried. That I no longer have any money so I can't even be a wealthy spinster and my looks will fade in a few more years. Then, I'll have nothing except my friends." She smiled softly, "But, I still think I'll be happier with just my friends than I ever would have been if I'd stayed and then things don't seem so awful."

"Why don't we have a girl's night in tonight?" Willow suggested smiling. "We can invite Drusilla. Oh, and it's Wednesday so the saloon will be slow. We can get Faith, Anya and Buffy over and just sit around talking."

"What about Angelus and William?" Cordelia asked, smiling.

"They aren't girls" Willow said, laughing. "Delia, they see me every night. I think they can live without me one night. Besides, I would enjoy some girl talk."

"And I have a feeling we'll have two uninvited guests" Cordelia said laughing as she wondered if Willow honestly believed Angelus and William would let away from them that easily.

"Well, if we do, they can sit and listen to girl talk too. I have a feeling they won't last that long" Willow laughed, glad that Cordelia seemed interested in a get together. She hated that Delia had had to face her evil mother alone but knew that it helped her friend move past it all. She just now had to work on getting Cordelia someone to love her. "I'll go wake Faith up and see what she thinks of the idea."

"I'll finish the books" Cordelia said, smiling as she watched her best friend run towards the saloon. She smiled larger as she realized that Willow had been kissed, finally. She was so happy for the girl, knowing that no one deserved happiness as much as she did. She went back to work, excited about the upcoming evening.

*****

Willow walked through the saloon, surprised to see Graham already awake and cleaning the bar. "Hey you."

Graham looked at her, smiling easily. "Hi stranger."

"Stranger? I just saw you night before last!" Willow said, laughing as she sat on the stool to talk to him.

"Willow, we haven't had a good chat for weeks. Not since the Prince Charmings arrived." Graham said, laughing.

"Jealous?" she asked with a smile.

"I miss my friend, yeah" he admitted, "Don't have any one to sit and listen to my stories now."

"Ah, poor Graham" she said, rolling her eyes. "I'm sure you could find someone else that would love to listen to you."

He shook his head, "Not around here. They have their own lives to rant about."

"True." Willow said, suddenly saying, "Hey wait a minute! Does that mean I didn't have a life?"

Graham winked at her, "You said it, I didn't."

Willow laughed, watching him wipe the counter as he caught her up on everything that had been going on at the saloon. She rested her chin on her hands, smiling as he told her stories of the patrons that had been in. Graham always seemed rather shy around the others, she had noticed. But, around her or Giles? Well, she could never get him to shut up. She listened to him but thought about Cordelia. Her best friend was in love with Graham. Or as close as you could be in love if you had never really had a long conversation with someone. Willow found herself imagining her best female friend married to her best male friend. It would make her very happy to see them both with each other, she realized. She knew though that matchmaking never worked. If anything, she would scare Graham away from Delia. No, she'd have to be patient and hope that they found their own way to each other. She wouldn't interfere. "Sounds like I haven't really missed anything."

He shrugged, "Not a lot. You know how it gets around here after the August run. Mostly locals. How are things at the hotel?"

"Fine. We have six people staying with us right now. Mostly married couples on their way West, looking for their fortunes. Delia has been handling the check ins most evenings since she moved in since I find myself otherwise occupied."

Graham nodded, asking in a subtle manner, he hoped, "So, how is the princess? Adjusting to commoner life?"

"She's doing well actually. Loves the hotel. She's becoming pretty good friends with Dru Devlin so she has someone to keep her company at night. Had a rough night last night but seems happy."

"I heard" he said simply, turning to find the glasses that needed washed.

"You heard?" Willow asked, frowning.

"Her mother, if you can call her that. That woman should be shot for some of the things she said" Graham said, an edge in his voice. "I have to say, Delia held her own though. She didn't cry until after mother left."

"You were watching?"

Graham turned, his eyes widening, "Not on purpose. I always check on you after dark, or I did until your boys arrived, and am sort of still in that habit. I just happened to look in and saw Mrs Chase. Stayed around in case things got violent."

Willow smiled, standing. "I'm glad you're looking out for her, Graham. She needs that, though she'd die before admitting it. It was nice catching up with you."

"Yeah, it was," Graham said, not denying her claim that he was looking out for Cordelia. "Hey, don't tell Delia that I heard anything. Don't want her to feel weird."

"You just don't want her to know you're looking out for her" Willow corrected with a smile. "I won't say a word. I've got to go find Faith now. See you later, Graham."

"Until later, Willow" Graham said, smiling softly at the redhead as she walked up the stairs towards the doves' rooms.

*****

Willow climbed up the stair case towards the rooms of the girls. Their staircase was just a tad smaller than the one in the hotel, but she knew that luggage did not often have to be carried up. Usually, one cowboy followed one girl and then one cowboy came back down. She walked along the carpeted hallway, past the closed doors of the eight rooms. She found Faith's that was at the very end of the hallway. She knocked, opening it slightly to see if the girl was awake. "Hello?"

Faith looked up and smiled, "Willow. What brings you to our end of the place this early?"

"Early?" Willow said, laughing. "It's almost noon. I overslept today and already half the day is gone."

"Overslept huh?" Faith said, grinning. She set her book down, patting the bed in front of her. "Sit down and tell me everything."

"About what?" Willow asked, sitting down.

"Last night, you sneak!" Faith said, leaning back against the pillows.

"It was....fantastic" Willow said, blushing slightly under the woman's knowing gaze.

"You didn't..." Faith frowned slightly, seeing the girl's obvious happiness yet also seeing the blush.

"Didn't?" Willow suddenly shook her head, "Good God, no! We just kissed."

"Good" Faith smiled, a kiss she had expected. "So, details. Who was better? You did kiss them both didn't you?"

"Faith!" Willow laughed, wondering if she could turn anymore red. "I can't talk about stuff like that."

"Why not?" Faith asked, amusement in her dark eyes.

"Because, Delia and I are having a girl's night in and you are invited. You, Buffy and Anya. I figured the other girls could keep things under control over here for one night" Willow said, smiling.

The other girls were not really part of the family. They were usually drifters that were passing through on their way West. They would stay at the saloon for a month or two until they made enough money to continue west or they'd meet some cowboy and run away with them. Because of that, Willow rarely became very close to any of them. She knew them all, and was friendly to them, but they never stayed long enough to grow very attached to. In the beginning, she had treated her three good friends the same way. It was only after they had stayed past the three month mark that she had realized that they meant to stay. She had seen more than a hundred girls pass through the halls of the Rose since it had opened. She honestly could remember each one's face and name and usually some other silly detail about them. Shelly who only wore the color blue. Maggie who always sang every afternoon as she did her cleaning. Belle who always had a new story for her. Hundreds of names and faces swam through her memory. Some were still alive. Some were dead. Some had gone on to land wealthy husbands. Some had gotten tangled up with outlaws and were left widowed. She saw some in town even now, knowing that a good dozen of the Rose girls were now married to various townsmen. For her friends sake, she hoped that Anya and Buffy would be as lucky as they.

"Girls only?" Faith said, smiling softly. "I think that might be a nice change."

"You can survive without Giles for a night?" Willow asked, laughing as Faith blushed.

"Yes, you little imp!" Faith said, wondering if her feelings for the man were that obvious. "Besides, you know I never stay with him past dawn. I like to sleep in my own bed."

"I know" Willow said, knowing that it was one of the few things that Faith and her father argued about. The girl was too independent to spend the entire night with him for some silly reason. "Do you think Anya and Buffy would like to?"

Faith nodded, "Sissy boy is under his mother's thumb for some cousin's wedding so he won't be around. You know Buffy's thoughts on the other men."

"She won't mind missing work for one night." Willow said, giggling at Faith's name for the Deputy.

"And Anya is on her monthly and taking it easy the next couple of days anyway" Faith said, knowing that in reality both girls would love a break from the men. "You sure Cordelia wouldn't mind us being there?"

"Nope. And Dru will be there too of course" Willow said, not wanting to forget her new friend.

"I like her" Faith said, having gotten a good impression of all of the Devlins. "And speaking of the Devlins, you said details of those kisses tonight, right."

"No I did not" Willow said, hearing the finality in Faith's words.

"How are you going to get away from said men anyway? They always spend every evening with you" Faith said, delighting in being able to make the redhead blush after years of not being able to. She rather liked the influence of the Devlins.

"They can go play cards in town or find something to do, I'm sure." Willow said, getting to her feet. "You'll talk to Buffy and Anya or shall I?"

"I will. What time does the party start?"

"Dusk?" Willow said, shrugging. "I figured we'd use the honeymoon suite. It's not being used at the moment and it is the largest room at the hotel by far. We should easily be able to camp out on the floor."

Faith nodded, having used that room for another girl's night in several months prior for Buffy's birthday celebration. "We can draw cards for the bed. Three people can fit in it with room to spare."

"Sounds fine. See you at dusk then. Bye" Willow said, smiling as she felt to find Cordelia and tell her that the plan was set.

*****

Willow laughed as Faith finished her story. "Was it really that awful?"

Faith nodded emphatically, "Yes. I hated Boston. I love it here."

"It doesn't sound as bad as some places," Buffy said, thinking of her home in Virginia.

"It isn't home. This is home." Faith said, smiling.

"Yes, it is, isn't it?" Buffy said.

"So, what did the boys say when you told them they were on their own?" Anya asked Willow.

"Angelus just smiled and said they would have to find something to keep them out of trouble. William pouted and tried to get me to stay with them instead of coming upstairs. I didn't," Willow said, smiling.

"We are all very proud," Cordelia said solemnly, her eyes amused.

"Quite," Faith said, giggling.

"Oh, hush," Willow scolded, smiling despite herself.

"Don't tease her," Anya said, laughing. "If I had two men like that, I'd be with them instead of with you girls, no offense."

"None taken," Buffy said, laughing.

"If I were with them constantly, they'd go mad as would I," Willow said.

"But what a way to go," Faith said, snickering.

"You girls are horrible," Willow said, laughing.

"They will not go mad, nor will Willow," Drusilla said, smiling.

"Does it bother you?" Cordelia asked, leaning forward and looking at Willow.

"What?" Willow asked, curious.

"Their um....you know," Cordelia said.

"Undead state," Faith clarified.

Drusilla frowned, looking at the girls in surprise. "What are you speaking of?"

Willow looked at Drusilla and smiled tenderly, "We know that you, William and Angelus are vampires."

"You know? How?" Dru asked softly, worry and concern in her eyes.

"Willow told us," Buffy said quietly.

"We noticed the weird sleeping habits and lack of eating a month ago or so," Anya said. "When we confronted Willow, worried that there was something wrong, well, she told us."

"I don't know what to say," Drusilla spoke softly. She could not believe that they knew of her and the others. And that they accepted it. They had known for over a month and never let on.

"Hey, all of us has something weird to deal with," Faith said shrugging. "You just have a little more than most."

"You aren't evil or anything, right?" Anya said.

"We do not kill usually," Drusilla said. "I rarely feed. Angelus and William, they are careful. They do not kill unless it is necessary."

"See? They're more human than most humans," Willow said with a smile. "Please don't tell them we know."

"How long have you been aware that we are vampires?" Drusilla asked.

"Not long after you arrived in town," Willow said, shrugging. "I read a lot. I noticed some oddities in your behaviour, and was worried until I realized what it must be. I would rather them not know until they tell me. I know it's odd, but I want them to tell me."

"Not odd," Drusilla said, amazed at these humans they had found. Of course, considering the humans they had come across in this country and especially this area, well, she and her family were not nearly as evil. "I will not say a word. If you can all keep it a secret, so shall I."

"Good," Cordelia said, smiling at her newest friend. "It is forgotten already."

"What is forgotten?" Buffy said, smiling innocently.

Willow laughed, "Good. Then I do not have to answer that question."

"Ah, fine. I'm assuming it is no more different than being with two humans. Except, these two will never age and must eat blood to survive." Faith said, smiling.

"Those are honestly the only real differences," Drusilla said. "Some of our kind can be truly evil, while others are almost normal. We all have our demons. My family and I? We control ours easily, but there are times we give in to our demons. It is part of our life. "

"Just like us," Willow said, meaning humans in general. "We all have our dark sides but control them. I've met humans that are far more evil than anything I could ever imagine."

"What does giving in to a demon mean?" Cordelia asked, curious.

Drusilla shrugged delicately, "It is hard to explain. I have only seen it happen with my sire when William or I were threatened. He becomes another person, allowing the demon control for those moments. He can always take control back at anytime. None of us is controlled by our demon."

"Thank you for explaining it a bit better," Faith said softly. "I've been a bit worried but I trust Willow. She accepts it, I accept it."

"It's nice to know she has three strong people looking out for her," Buffy said, smiling.

"She has more than three," Drusilla said, looking around the room at the assortment of girls.

"Ah, you're making me blush," Anya said, laughing.

"Can we change the subject now that everyone's fears have been put to rest?" Willow asked, smiling. She loved her friends and was so proud of them for accepting that she was in love with two vampires. Of course, part of it could be their lack of knowledge about the mythical creatures. They only knew what she had told them, but they hadn't even asked. They had been around the Devlins long enough to know that they would never do anything to hurt her. She did love them all dearly.

"Did I tell you about Molly Mae?" Faith asked, winking at Willow as she moved onto a new subject.

"No, what happened?" Willow asked, hearing the name of a girl that had worked at the Rose the previous year before getting married to a cowboy from Texas.

"She's going to have a child," Faith said, listening as the girls laughed and they began to discuss Molly, forgetting about the vampires.

*****

"How is Xander?" Willow asked Anya.

"Still proposing constantly," Anya said, frowning. "Why can't that boy learn what the word no means?"

Faith laughed, "He knows. He just keeps hoping one day you'll slip and say yes."

"I won't," Anya said.

"I wish someone would propose to me," Buffy said, sighing.

"How is sissy boy?" Faith asked innocently.

"RILEY is fine," Buffy said, glaring at the brunette.

Anya laughed, "I prefer Faith's nickname, actually. How is his Mommy?"

"That woman hates me," Buffy said. "No, actually, she hates everyone. She controls all of her family with such an iron hand. She doesn't even know me. How could she hate me?"

"No one could hate you that knows you, Buffy," Willow said, smiling softly.

"He doesn't deserve you if he can't stand up to Mommy and tell her where to go," Faith said.

"But, I love him," Buffy whispered, sighing.

"Love is such an overrated emotion," Anya said, shaking her head. "It is just a word. It doesn't mean anything."

"You don't love Xander?" Cordelia asked, curious.

"I don't believe in love," Anya said. "Love got my mother to sacrifice her life for a bastard and to end up dead in a small shack in the country side of Texas. I have no intention of following in her misguided footsteps."

"Life without love isn't really a life," Drusilla said softly.

"My life is fine without it," Anya said, sharply. She grinned sheepishly, "Sorry. I didn't mean to sound snippy."

"It's her monthly," Buffy said, smirking at her friend.

"I know," Drusilla said, having smelled the unique scent of fresh blood since arriving in the room. She smiled, "The scent of blood in the air. I assumed it was one of you."

"Wow...you can smell that well?" Faith said in admiration.

"And we learn more perks to being undead," Cordelia said, laughing.

"Wait. You mean, they can smell like that too?" Willow asked, blushing. "Oh my...any other details I might need to know?"

"None that I know of," Drusilla said, laughing softly. She sat up straighter, looking towards the door. "Shhh...I can feel them."

Faith grinned, knowing that Angelus and William must be outside the door. "So, Willow," she said speaking slightly louder. "You were going to tell us about those kisses!"

"What?" Buffy squealed, "You got kissed?"

"Guys!" Willow said, her face flaming as they laughed.

"By both of them," Faith elaborated.

"Both?" Anya said, laughing in glee. "Which one was better?"

"Come on, Willow. You can tell us..." Buffy said.

"They were both different but fantastic. That's all I am going to say," Willow said, rolling her eyes.

"Where's the fun in that?" Buffy whined.

"We'd tell you," Anya said, laughing.

"I wouldn't ask," Willow pointed out with a smile.

The girls continued talking, trying to needle more details from Willow. But, the redhead resisted their attempts, changing the subject. They began to talk about the Rose, telling Drusilla stories of the girls that had come and gone during the past years.

*****

Willow lay awake on the floor, listening to the even breathing of her friends. When she was sure they were asleep, she stood and stepped over them. Carefully opening the door, she smiled when she saw Angelus and William sitting across the hall from her. When Drusilla had mentioned feeling them, the vampire had smiled and rolled her eyes, nodding towards the door. Willow had known then that they were waiting for her. She had wanted to stay until her friends were asleep, not wanting to hear their teasing about not being able to stay away from her boys.

"You two look comfortable," she said, smiling.

"Floor is a tad hard, luv, but we were waiting for you. It was worth it," William said, getting to his feet easily. He took Willow's hand, pulling her to him and kissing her tenderly.

"Willow, you look lovely," Angelus said, his eyes sweeping over the girl's long nightgown that fell to her feet and the robe that covered her. He brushed his lips against hers, hating to admit that he had missed her presence that evening.

"Shall we go to the balcony?" Willow asked, moving up the stairs towards her room. She felt William's hand in hers and smiled. She did love them, though she wished they would tell her soon about their being vampires. It was so hard for her to remain silent about knowing, especially since her friends had demanded answers and now knew also.

Angelus settled on the blanket she laid out on her balcony. He pulled her down to rest against him. He heard her sigh and smiled. "So, love," he said, wrapping a lock of red hair around his finger, "did you enjoy your evening?"

"It was nice," she said, smiling at William as he took her legs and placed them across his lap. She felt him begin to slowly massage her feet, his long fingers rubbing softly.

"We missed you," William said, grinning, "but we're glad you enjoyed the night with the girls."

"It was only a few hours," Willow said, laughing.

"Ah, but it was the first time we've been apart that long since July," Angelus reminded.

"We're apart every morning and afternoon," Willow reminded back.

"Yes, but that is time we are used to not having you around. Once the sun sets, you are ours. It was not nice to lose you this evening, but we accept it. There will be other times I'm sure we will be apart for one reason or another." Angelus said, brushing her hair with his fingers.

"The first time is always the worst," William said softly, moving his hands across her feet.

"Oh," she said, smiling at the idea that she was theirs anytime. "I missed you both too."

"Good." Angelus said, brushing his lips against her neck. "It's only fair that you suffer along with us."

"You look so beautiful in the moonlight," William said, his eyes caressing her face.

Willow laughed lightly, "As do you, William Devlin."

"Shall we tell you about our evening?" William asked, resting his back against the house as he continued to massage her foot.

"Yes, please. That way I'll know what mischief you two got into," she said, resting against Angelus' hard chest.

Angelus listened to William's story, adding his own perception of the evening. He listened to Willow laugh, smiling at William above her head. They had decided after this horrible evening without her that they had to acknowledge the painful truth. They were completely in love with the redhead. They believed she may be falling for them also, but had no definite proof as yet. They had also decided that Harrington was going to become their home. They were going to stay in town permanently, with their Willow. It had been a gradual fall, falling in love with her, but they knew there was no way they would lose it now that they had found it. He rested his chin on the top of her head as he felt her relax against him. This made up for the evening without her, he decided with a smile. Ending it with her where she belonged. With them.

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