Title; And Then There Was a Time, Part 5
Author; Greenfae
Disclaimer; All the rights belong to Joss W, I own nuttin,, just a poor starving writer trying to learn 'da way' so please no sueing,, I don't have anything anyway. *s*
Email; Greenfae2@cs.com
Rating; a little safer, well no wild kinky things, just somewhat of a story thats driving me crazy, maybe a R to NC 17 please be old enough before reading.
Pairing; Willow, Riley, and Angel, oh my.
Time frame; After the seventh seasons more or less, ;-)
Notes; angst,, major angst, *sheese* I hope you enjoy.
The Call;
It was an hour before sunset when Riley and Willow finally decide to get out of the love nest they had made. Willow still unsure of what she was feeling let herself rely on Riley. She only wanted the sanity that would come from being in his arms again. So when he asked if she would go with him to his motel room. She had said yes, her mind set that Angel wouldn't know how to find them right away and that would give her sometime to decide how to tell him. How to let him down easy, so that he would let her go without any problems. She and Riley had gotten dressed and gone out just before sunset heading to a diner less than two blocks away from where she lived.
The little diner was of the greasy spoon variety and she ordered a hamburger fries and a salad. The salad of course to combat the guilt about the burger and fries. Willow had wanted to sit near the back but close enough to see the windows. Riley wasn't sure why she seemed so edgy but let her have her way. By the time their food arrived she was contentedly watching the passers by on the street. Riley had to bring her attention back to her dinner and she smiled at him. Somewhere in her heart she knew he was coming.
She was munching the last of her fries when she saw him. Angel had just walked by slowly looking at the ground as he passed. She didn't say anything to Riley about seeing him there, only watched as he shuffled by the large greasy windows. Once he had passed she told Riley she was tired of sitting in the diner and could they go now. He was more than willing, grabbing the check he paid as they started to leave.
He gave Willow a look that made her feel as if she would melt on the spot. Then he tugged at her arm and they were off. He put her into the hummer and drove off toward his little room where at the moment all his clothes were. Once they got there, Riley walked over and opened the door for her letting her out of the car and walked her where his room was. There was another note slipped under the door and he picked it up. The same type of writing was on it as the first and he ripped it open.
Giving it a quick glance before dropping it in the trash can beside the dresser. "I need to take a quick shower," he said with a smile in his eyes. She was sure he wanted her to join him but she didn't have any clothes here so she shook her head. Her eyes were met with a comical stare as he pretended to be broken hearted. Willow giggled and gave his arm a smack. " Oh go on, there will be lots of showers together", the smile in her voice set him in motion and he swung her up in his arms holding her to his chest. He stated walking toward the bath and she shrieked at him no!
After some minor struggles and a lot of laughter he gave up and set her on the bed. Riley stepped back from her and pulled his gray tee shirt off in a smooth motion. Then with a grin on his lips he began to unbutton his jeans sliding them down his legs. Using his feet to push off the heels of his shoes he dropped the pants off his body. Willow turn five different shades of red as he did this and he tried not to laugh. He hadn't wore his boxers so he stood there in his all in all, eyes dancing as he watch her squirm. Willow sighed at him, "You are not going to make this easy are you?". He shook his head and turned toward the bathroom giving her a nice look at his retreating backside. She felt the need to follow him but kept her calm knowing she didn't have anything else to wear.
Willow glance at the trash can and wondered about the letter he had just received. Why did he pitch it, what was it in that letter than made him frown so. Hearing the shower go on she walked over to the trash and pick up the letter opening it and scanning its contents.
Finn, Riley,
Military group, Beta Con.
Dispatch point CZ Ralph 3
Time 2300 hours,
Mission, N,T,K,
Placement, South America
Willow was shocked to say the least. Riley had told her he was out of the military and didn't want to go back. This letter seemed to contradict what he had said and she wasn't so sure he would stay with her now. How well did she really know him anyway. What could she know over the time they had shared. Her mind raced, 2300 hours was, umm 11 PM. It was now, she looked for a clock and found one on the night stand, 7:45 PM she had maybe three hours left with him.
The shower door opened and the water went off. Willow dropped the letter back in the trash and walked back to the bed. What should she do, what could she do. Did she even have the right to ask him to stay? He was going to, of she was sure of that. What did that mean about what they had together?
Riley stepped from the bathroom with only a towel on. His mind on what he wanted to do to her again as he turned around smiling. He notice right away that something had changed. The change in her wasn't her smile, she still had that. Something about her eyes was diffrent and he didn't know what to think about that. Was she upset with him? He couldn't think what he could have done that would upset her. He was only in the shower for maybe fifteen minutes. He slipped a fresh pair of boxers and clean jeans leaving the top button open as he walked over to her and sat beside her on the bed.
Willow sat with her head lowered and her hair draped over her face so that he couldn't see her. "Willow, he started, is something wrong?" The question was simple but she knew the answer she would give would not be. "I, um, read your letter Riley, I am sorry but I was worried, the way you looked when you read it scared me. Why didn't you tell me you were leaving. I would have.. I mean.. " her voice trailed off. Riley put his arms around her, his voice low but full of emotions. " I am not going Willow. I am not going anywhere that's away from you."
He began to rock her some, trying his best to soothe her. He moved his hand so that his fingers rested just below her chin. She started to turn away but he pulled her face to met his and looked deeply into her eyes. "Really, Willow I am not going. It's not something I have to do, they no longer can just tell me where to go". She began to understand, "Then the letter was a request, not orders?". He nodded to her and smiled, pulling her body to him. " I could go if I wanted to but I want to be here with you Willow, he was rocking her gently again, if that's OK with you?".
Riley let the thoughts about the mission fill his mind. The dispatch point was interesting, they had picked the top of the very apartment building Willow lived in. Figure the odds of that one he thought, and he smirked to himself. His mind ran though a set of ideas, none the least of which was making love to Willow until after the dispatch time had passed. Then she would know he wasn't going, his heart was already made up. He hugged her tighter to his bare chest. Riley smiled as he noticed her breathing became a little faster.
Angel Lost;
The longer he stood in the door way the harder it seemed to be to move. He knew he should do something but he wasn't sure what. So Angel just listened, he tried to discern a heart beat or words coming from inside the apartment. But there was nothing, not one sound coming from inside. That could only mean that no one was there. Brilliant, Angel, he told himself, you got here after everyone is gone, and stood her like a fool. Afraid to knock on a door that no one would come to. Angel straiten up and ran a strong hand through his dark hair.
She would be back he knew that, he just needed to wait for her. He hoped when she came back it would be alone. That Riley would not be with her, he didn't want to see the boy until he had calmed down more. Angel stood there with his hands shaking like he was a addict of some sort. He would have to fed and soon, so he walked off to Willie's place. Angel knew he could get his pigs blood there and it wasn't as far as going back to the mansion.
Angel walked into Wille's looking around and wondering what kind of trouble was in here tonight. There was always possible trouble at Willie's and Angel knew it. That was why he didn't normally come in to get his dinner. Willie watched him from behind the bar and unlike most times he looked terrified. Angel wondered at this, but didn't worry about it to much. After all Willie was more or less a coward and Angel was fairly scary when he wanted to be.
Angel found him a spot that was at the end of the bar so that he could face most of the patrons here. He didn't like the idea of getting caught off guard tonight of all nights. This might be a very dangerous thing for any demon to attempt to do. His mind still haunted him with thoughts of Riley and his Willow together. Willie, a little more reluctant than normal came to him and asked what he wanted. Angel smiled evily and simply stated " the regular Willie, of course. Unless you have something that could interest me." The last comment thrown out just to see Willie squirm.
He was surprised when Willie began to tell him about his encounter with "the tall blonde man in denim complete with jean jacket.". Angel's eyes instantly flashed amber as the ridges on his head snapped into place. "And just what did you tell him, Willie?". His voice taking on a growl, he watch as the smaller man fidget with his sponge. Willie told Angel just what he had told Riley the night before and he told Angel how Riley had threaten him. Angel only nodded knowing now that Riley might well be young but he was not as stupid as he had first thought. "Drink now." was all Angel said to the fearful man as he let his features return to human. Willie was off quickly getting what he had requested.
From across the bar a very pretty woman sat watching the whole set of events. When Willie left she walked slowly over to Angel and asked if she could sit beside him. He only nodded, and she smiled scooting in beside him as close as she could. Her eyes were a strange shade of gray and her hair was a dark red. Her small body was tight in all the right places and he couldn't help but notice she look a little like his red witch. Angel listen to her voice, but didn't really hear her. His thoughts were on his Wollow, so much so that he didn't at first notice how she was looking at him.
Suddenly he understood something she had said although he wasn't sure what she was asking. "You are Angelus aren't you?' her voice breathy as she said his soulless name. Angel nodded, "Sometimes, he answered, but not tonight" With that he downed his mug and set it back on the counter. The woman smiled greedily at him but lowered her head when she caught the growl Angel had issued. He stood up and backed away from the bar turning with a quick smooth movement. He was barely noticed leaving except for the redhead still sitting at the bar. Watching her glass her eyes flash amber then back to the normal shade. She tapped the side of her glass and Willie came over to refill it with the dark red liquid.
Angel looked out into the night as he walked away from the bar. His thoughts centered on what to do next. Giving up was outta the question, so he had to put together a plan. One that would include somehow bumping Riley and bringing Willow closer to him. Walking and thinking were how Angel dealt with the strain of not being able to know what was happening yet. Not being able to do anything about what might be happening. His rage at the lack of choices was making him crazy, and his inner demon wasn't helping. "He is touching her, the demon hissed, He is touching her the way you want to touch her." Angel had to shake himself to regain his mind, he pulled his cell phone from his pocket and made a quick call to Fred.
"Angel Investigations, we help the hopless" the chipper voice of Cordelia came from the small receiver. "Hey Delia, It's me" he started. His mind made up he began to ask her questions starting with where was Fred. After a fairly long conversation he hung up and stopped to see just where he was. He calculated how long it would take him from here, and then took off. Sometimes his vampiric speed was a really good thing.
Soldier Boy;
Willow sat up in the bed and giggled at Riley, he was playing commando and tunneling under the sheets. She squealed and jumped out of the bed running for the bathroom. Riley caught her before she could close the door and they both fell naked in front of the bathroom door laughing. Willow thought she wouldn't be able to catch her breath and even Riley's face was turning a little red. They began to calm down holding each other close and smiling.
Willow raise a delicate hand and brushed his cheek with it bringing it down to his chin then tapping his lower lip with her index finger. He tired to catch the errant finger with his lips but she backed off giving him the " no no " look. He only smiled wider and kissed her lips sucking and nibbling them gently. He stopped a moment and looked at her. She felt like he was taking in every moment, every movement she made. His breath came a little raggedly and she wonder if he needed more of his meds. Riley saw the look in her eyes that told him she was worrying again. "What is it love", he asked her pulling her closer to his taunt body. Willow shook her head and he nodded consent. "Ok, you don't have to tell me." he wanted to ask more, to make her tell him. But he knew she could be more than stubborn. He could only wait and hope that she would tell him at a later date.
Riley's mind was full of the events over the past 24 hours. Willow filled almost every minute of them and he had to smile. She nudged him back to the present and gave him a quizzical look. Riley only shook his head and gave her his killer grin. She could almost feel her heart skip a beat. They both decided that it was time to go, she had things to get at her apartment and he had in his mind that he would not let her out of his site. She was so happy that she had today off, and she could just be with him. But they had things to do, and she wanted to get started.
Willow had dressed again and Riley was waiting at the door when she came out of the bathroom. He checked the time and found that it was still almost 20 minutes before the pick up team arrived. If he would have had his chance he would have not left then, he would have waited until they were gone. He didn't want to tell Willow that he was trying to avoid his military buddies. But at the same time he had no intention of going anyway, so what did it matter.
As they left the little motel room Riley glanced back at his room knowing he would not be staying in it much longer if he had his way. He and Willow would find a little bit bigger place than the apartment she was now in and move in together. Riley had no doubt that one day he would "pop" the question. But for now he was letting her call all the shots. She needed to feel as if she didn't have to make any fast moves. She had made enough choices over the last couple of days, he thought.
Willow made her way to Riley's car and waited for him to unlock the door and let her in. Out of the corner of her eye she thought she saw someone passing the building but when she looked up no one was there. Her heart began to race anyway and she smiled nervously up to Riley when he opened the door for her. Riley squinted his eyes briefly as if listening to something then he shut the door behind her. Then he walked around and got in himself. Riley knew someone was watching them, he could hear who ever it was moving in the shadows.
Could it be Angel, was a thought, or could it be some other night monster around. Either way, Riley had taken the precaution of resupplying his jacket with stakes and other things that would help him in a fight with most types of undead or demons. As he slid into his side of the hummer he looked around wondering just where in the shadows was the watcher at. Then he glanced at Willow and gave a quick smile starting the engine and pulling out of the parking spot. All with the feeling that at any moment they would be attacked or at the very least stopped. They were not, and Riley sighed his relief letting a real smile touch his lips again.
Making a Move;
Angel watched as the hummer left the parking lot of the slightly rundown motel. He knew they were most likely going back to Willow's place. But Angel wasn't trusting himself enough to confront Willow and Riley together. He knew he would need to talk to Riley, away from Willow. They had to have an understanding, man to man, well in his case man to vampire. Angel simply took off in the direction of her apartment and managed to get there first.
She would be expecting to see him tonight sometime, but he wanted to talk to Riley before she had a chance to " let him down easy". Angel wasn't happy with the idea of being second best and would not take no for an answer, yet. He would find out Riley's intentions and then he would decide. Maybe Riley really loved her, in which case he had to let her go if that is what she wanted. His demon was running riot, "NO, she is ours, we have played the souls game and he is going to let her go." The last comment made him growl low in his throat. Somehow he would have to find a way to reason even within himself. As he stood outside the apartment that Willow lived in and waited, the battle that was already raging in him would not let up.
Angel stepped back into the shadows as he saw them pull up and park. Willow got out and went up to the door while Riley seemed to be getting something from his car. The second Willow disappeared into the building Angel stepped into view and waited for Riley to notice him. He didn't have to wait long, as Riley still bent over in the back of the hummer said, "I guess you already know what is going on here." The statement was flat and to the point, Angel really did have to respect the man. Most mortals when faced with a 240 plus year old vamp would be terrified.
Riley seemed almost as if he was expecting this and welcomed the chance to set things strait. Angel could feel his monster howling in anger at the arrogant mortal. Quick scenes flashed in his mind, none of them pretty. All of them had Riley more or less in pieces. Angel just raised an eyebrow at Riley's comment and answered. "Yes I think I do, but *you* know this if far from over".
Angel was using his tone to belie his inner fears that it was already to late, and to hopefully make Riley unsure. He could tell only minor things that let him know he had hit his mark. Riley closed the back of the hummer after putting his bag on the ground and turned to face Angel. His face showing a type of resolve that Angel had seen before in his little red headed witch. Anger held in check Angel could tell Riley was dealing with his own inner demons. Self doubt and knowing that his rival for Willow's attentions was Angel himself.
Angel didn't want to be arrogant, well the souled side of him didn't but his demon told him he should have no problem dispatching this whelp. Riley crossed his arms in a defiant stance and watched Angel move gracefully around to his side. "You know we need to talk about this, alone. I don't think Willow needs to know, she would be unhappy with the things that we as men, would talk about." Riley nodded and looked at his watch, he knew his military buddy's would be at the top of the building in maybe 10 minutes or so. His mind raced with possibilities and he decided, "Yeah OK then, but you will need to meet me on the roof. I will tell Willow something so that she won't worry about me."Angel not knowing about the, appointment, only nodded and walked back into the shadows.
Riley glanced at Angel as he moved away and narrowed his eyes. Picking up his bag he walked purposefully up the stairs and into the building. When he got to Willow's door he knocked gently and waited. She opened the door for him and he smiled, giving her a kiss on the top of her head. "Willow, he started, I really need to go get a couple of things from the store". His voice was light and showed none of the tension he was feeling. Willow only nodded absentmindedly, "I need to check out a couple of things on my lap top too", her voice was somewhat thin compared to her normal. She walked over to her little desk by her bookshelf, sitting down. Riley didn't notice the look she had given him as he left, if he had he would not have gone just then. He would have waited, found out what she was feeling before he would take off. Angel wasn't really that important when it compared to Willow. She was fast becoming his only reason to be, and he knew it.
In her heart she didn't know, worse, his leaving her at this time made her worry that he was making his meet with the guys in his old outfit. Would he leave or would he stay, she didn't really know. She may have moved to fast with Riley and he may run. Leaving her wondering what she could have done to make it better. After what happened with Buffy, she wasn't sure of herself. If Buffy couldn't keep him what chance did she have. But then Willow knew pretty much what happened to Riley and Buffy's relationship. That wasn't the problem here, she really felt like she loved him. Or was she just trying to get away from what Angel had to offer.
That thought began to menace her mind, hold her thoughts hostage so to speak. Willow was not ready to explore her feelings for Angel. He evoked things in her that were hard to describe. Things at this point that might be better left alone. So she had only her worries of what Riley would really want of her. Or what he didn't want, how could she cope if he left her now, she needed the chance to understand. Focusing her mind on what she wanted to do on the laptop. She booted up and began tapping away, wasting time until Riley was back, if he came back. She tried not to let her mind go there, not to think about what she might have to face if he did go.
Riley stepped out Willow's door and looked around, taking the stairs up to the top floor he was glad there was only 3 flights aside from Willow's floor. The building had been a good choice for the military group he was suppose to meet with. It at 4 stories was one of the tallest in Sunnydale. The roof was flat and open just right for a chopper to come in and land fairly quiet, and be off again before anyone really knew what was up.
As he stepped out into the open air he felt the wind as it picked up. His hearing caught a sound from behind him and he moved quickly out of the way. Angel stepped out from the shadows by the door to the roof smiling enough to make Riley feel even more uncomfortable. "So what is it you think we need to talk about?" Riley's jaw was tight and he made no apologies for his apprehensive look. Angel passed in front of him and smiled again. "Well, it seems you have won the first round here, kid" Angel's voice seemed to be letting Riley know he would not win the second. Riley made a sour face at the thought that he and Willow could be that simply dismissed as a couple. Angel did not seem to have any thought that she would want to stay with Riley.
With a reproachful look Riley watched as Angel walked in front of him again. Somehow Riley felt as if the vampire was thinking of the best way to deal with what was going on right now. He couldn't help but hope that Angel would try to get physical with him. It would make it all to easy since he knew that he would not be alone in a very few moments. Riley's ears picked up at the helicopter as it came just into view over Angel's shoulder. Angel was saying something to the effect that he didn't really want to interfere with Willow's happiness but he also wasn't sure Riley could give her that. Riley began to feel more and more pissed that he was dictating to him what he should and shouldn't do for Willow. This "vampire" was just another Sib, T that needed to be put down. He was the cause of the break up between him and Buffy, and Riley would be damned if he was going to ruin his chances with Willow. She was what he needed most in his life.
Riley's voice became hushed and angry as he told Angel to go to hell. Angel only smiled and nodded. "I have already been there boy, and thanks to the wonderful witch when I came back it was with my soul, my heart and mind intact." His interest in what Riley had to say fading as he became more aggressive, Riley wasn't listening to him. He was acting like Angel had no idea what he was talking about. Angel had known Willow far longer than the boy in front of him. He knew what she needed what she would like.
Willow was not Riley's soul mate, she was mine, Angel thought. That's when he decided not to let Riley get away with the way he was disregarding his knowledge of the adorable redhead. Facing off with Riley he stood nose to nose and gave Riley a shove to make a point. Riley shoved back not wanting to be put down by this demon, not wanting to deal with this he was ready to fight. Ready to deal whatever blows would get Angel out of his life with Willow. He raised his fist to land a blow to Angel's head but his hand was caught and was twisted around behind his back. Angel held a tight grip on Riley's arm. Riley returned action for action and delivered a blow this time to Angel's instep with his heel. Angel pushed Riley hard away from him, and watch in slow motion as Riley's foot met with something making him stumble.
Angel thought to himself "He is falling, he is going to fall off the building!" Angel's reaction was to run to the side and try to catch him. But Riley was already tripping over the side when Angel realized that he was falling. The thought crossed Angel's mind that Riley might have really been a fight if he wasn't falling off to his death. When Angel got where Riley went over the side he caught site of the helicopter that was across from where he stood. It would be on top of him in seconds, he needed to leave. Angel took a quick glance down to where the body of Riley laid, his leg twisted at an odd angle. He hadn't meant for Riley to fall, he hadn't known that their little pushing match would end up this way. He could see and smell the blood coming from Riley's mouth and nose. The whole scene sent a chill over Angel, something in him went cold and full of fear. Not just because he felt Riely was dead, but also because of Willow.
Looking up he noticed that this wasn't a police chopper but a commando type. His mind put two and two together figuring that this was some of Riley's old friends. Angel wanted to stay and tell the military that was coming up on him that it had been an accident. But they didn't seem to want to hear it. Shots rang out and Angel felt the bullets barely missing him. More shots and he was hit this time. Three of the bullets had found their mark in his body. His own blood now spilling onto the ground. Angel knew then there was no talking to these guys and he began to run. Diving off the other side of the building he was on and onto a lower building then down through it's stair well. With speed that would amaze even other vampires he descended down and down, heading for the street once he hit the ground floor. Never looking back until he was at the sewer entrance two or so blocks away. He was in pain, even as the holes in his body were already healing. But he needed to feed soon to help them heal faster.
Angel walked the rest of the way to his mansion wondering how Willow was going to deal with this news. He knew he would have to tell her, that he couldn't just let her go without knowing. But at the same time what would he tell her, that he was the cause of Riley's death. That he didn't even stay to make amends, to deal with what he did. Angel felt as if he were being torn apart, he knew she would hate him now. There was nothing he could do to make this one go away, to make it better. He had in effect lost her and took her love away, taking with it any possible real happiness she could have had. It was his fault, she would hate him, his fault Riley was dead. Another innocent on his long line of things to live his immortal life with.
Why was it everything he touched would go bad. Angel's thoughts were making him crazy, and he wanted nothing but to end his torment. The only problem with that was Willow, he needed somehow to make amends to her. To help her get over and through this, he would in fact have to be there for her in all things now. Maybe not in the way he wanted to in the beginning. But he would take the responsibility, and deal with whatever she needed. She would never want for anything and maybe he could bring her back with him to L,A, if only to keep a closer watch on her. Delia would be more than happy to have another woman around and Fred would love the mental challenges that Willow could bring. In his mind it was settled, he would atone for his loss of control today, he would protect Willow and hope that someday she would be able to forgive him.
Fate Interfers;
Willow heard the sounds of a chopper over head and she cringed. Was that Riley's friends, she thought. If it was this next thirty minutes would tell the tale. He would either come back to her or they would possibly never see each other again. She was terrified, the waiting was driving her nuts. Very loud bang sounds made her nearly jump out of her skin, Willow ran to the window and looked out into the street. She couldn't see anything from her side of the building. Apparently whatever was happening was on the other side. As she went to duck back in she heard a second set of shots and caught a quickly moving shadow that seemed to fly through the air above her. Willow ran to her closet and grabbed a sweater pulling it on quickly as she headed for the door. Then up to the roof she started climbing the stairs faster than she would have thought she could.
When she finally got to the roof top and opened the door she was stunned. There was some of Riley's old gang and they were moving away fast. She didn't see Riley anywhere but she knew where he had be. He really did leave her, left her here alone after what they had shared together. She stood watching as the helicopter moved further and further away. This is how Buffy must have felt she thought distractedly to herself. Her thoughts not making much sense now she felt her cheek begin to itch, and rubbed it, Willow was surprised to see that she was crying.
until next time......
Author; Greenfae
Disclaimer; All the rights belong to Joss W, I own nuttin,, just a poor starving writer trying to learn 'da way' so please no sueing,, I don't have anything anyway. *s*
Email; Greenfae2@cs.com
Rating; a little safer, well no wild kinky things, just somewhat of a story thats driving me crazy, maybe a R to NC 17 please be old enough before reading.
Pairing; Willow, Riley, and Angel, oh my.
Time frame; After the seventh seasons more or less, ;-)
Notes; angst,, major angst, *sheese* I hope you enjoy.
The Call;
It was an hour before sunset when Riley and Willow finally decide to get out of the love nest they had made. Willow still unsure of what she was feeling let herself rely on Riley. She only wanted the sanity that would come from being in his arms again. So when he asked if she would go with him to his motel room. She had said yes, her mind set that Angel wouldn't know how to find them right away and that would give her sometime to decide how to tell him. How to let him down easy, so that he would let her go without any problems. She and Riley had gotten dressed and gone out just before sunset heading to a diner less than two blocks away from where she lived.
The little diner was of the greasy spoon variety and she ordered a hamburger fries and a salad. The salad of course to combat the guilt about the burger and fries. Willow had wanted to sit near the back but close enough to see the windows. Riley wasn't sure why she seemed so edgy but let her have her way. By the time their food arrived she was contentedly watching the passers by on the street. Riley had to bring her attention back to her dinner and she smiled at him. Somewhere in her heart she knew he was coming.
She was munching the last of her fries when she saw him. Angel had just walked by slowly looking at the ground as he passed. She didn't say anything to Riley about seeing him there, only watched as he shuffled by the large greasy windows. Once he had passed she told Riley she was tired of sitting in the diner and could they go now. He was more than willing, grabbing the check he paid as they started to leave.
He gave Willow a look that made her feel as if she would melt on the spot. Then he tugged at her arm and they were off. He put her into the hummer and drove off toward his little room where at the moment all his clothes were. Once they got there, Riley walked over and opened the door for her letting her out of the car and walked her where his room was. There was another note slipped under the door and he picked it up. The same type of writing was on it as the first and he ripped it open.
Giving it a quick glance before dropping it in the trash can beside the dresser. "I need to take a quick shower," he said with a smile in his eyes. She was sure he wanted her to join him but she didn't have any clothes here so she shook her head. Her eyes were met with a comical stare as he pretended to be broken hearted. Willow giggled and gave his arm a smack. " Oh go on, there will be lots of showers together", the smile in her voice set him in motion and he swung her up in his arms holding her to his chest. He stated walking toward the bath and she shrieked at him no!
After some minor struggles and a lot of laughter he gave up and set her on the bed. Riley stepped back from her and pulled his gray tee shirt off in a smooth motion. Then with a grin on his lips he began to unbutton his jeans sliding them down his legs. Using his feet to push off the heels of his shoes he dropped the pants off his body. Willow turn five different shades of red as he did this and he tried not to laugh. He hadn't wore his boxers so he stood there in his all in all, eyes dancing as he watch her squirm. Willow sighed at him, "You are not going to make this easy are you?". He shook his head and turned toward the bathroom giving her a nice look at his retreating backside. She felt the need to follow him but kept her calm knowing she didn't have anything else to wear.
Willow glance at the trash can and wondered about the letter he had just received. Why did he pitch it, what was it in that letter than made him frown so. Hearing the shower go on she walked over to the trash and pick up the letter opening it and scanning its contents.
Finn, Riley,
Military group, Beta Con.
Dispatch point CZ Ralph 3
Time 2300 hours,
Mission, N,T,K,
Placement, South America
Willow was shocked to say the least. Riley had told her he was out of the military and didn't want to go back. This letter seemed to contradict what he had said and she wasn't so sure he would stay with her now. How well did she really know him anyway. What could she know over the time they had shared. Her mind raced, 2300 hours was, umm 11 PM. It was now, she looked for a clock and found one on the night stand, 7:45 PM she had maybe three hours left with him.
The shower door opened and the water went off. Willow dropped the letter back in the trash and walked back to the bed. What should she do, what could she do. Did she even have the right to ask him to stay? He was going to, of she was sure of that. What did that mean about what they had together?
Riley stepped from the bathroom with only a towel on. His mind on what he wanted to do to her again as he turned around smiling. He notice right away that something had changed. The change in her wasn't her smile, she still had that. Something about her eyes was diffrent and he didn't know what to think about that. Was she upset with him? He couldn't think what he could have done that would upset her. He was only in the shower for maybe fifteen minutes. He slipped a fresh pair of boxers and clean jeans leaving the top button open as he walked over to her and sat beside her on the bed.
Willow sat with her head lowered and her hair draped over her face so that he couldn't see her. "Willow, he started, is something wrong?" The question was simple but she knew the answer she would give would not be. "I, um, read your letter Riley, I am sorry but I was worried, the way you looked when you read it scared me. Why didn't you tell me you were leaving. I would have.. I mean.. " her voice trailed off. Riley put his arms around her, his voice low but full of emotions. " I am not going Willow. I am not going anywhere that's away from you."
He began to rock her some, trying his best to soothe her. He moved his hand so that his fingers rested just below her chin. She started to turn away but he pulled her face to met his and looked deeply into her eyes. "Really, Willow I am not going. It's not something I have to do, they no longer can just tell me where to go". She began to understand, "Then the letter was a request, not orders?". He nodded to her and smiled, pulling her body to him. " I could go if I wanted to but I want to be here with you Willow, he was rocking her gently again, if that's OK with you?".
Riley let the thoughts about the mission fill his mind. The dispatch point was interesting, they had picked the top of the very apartment building Willow lived in. Figure the odds of that one he thought, and he smirked to himself. His mind ran though a set of ideas, none the least of which was making love to Willow until after the dispatch time had passed. Then she would know he wasn't going, his heart was already made up. He hugged her tighter to his bare chest. Riley smiled as he noticed her breathing became a little faster.
Angel Lost;
The longer he stood in the door way the harder it seemed to be to move. He knew he should do something but he wasn't sure what. So Angel just listened, he tried to discern a heart beat or words coming from inside the apartment. But there was nothing, not one sound coming from inside. That could only mean that no one was there. Brilliant, Angel, he told himself, you got here after everyone is gone, and stood her like a fool. Afraid to knock on a door that no one would come to. Angel straiten up and ran a strong hand through his dark hair.
She would be back he knew that, he just needed to wait for her. He hoped when she came back it would be alone. That Riley would not be with her, he didn't want to see the boy until he had calmed down more. Angel stood there with his hands shaking like he was a addict of some sort. He would have to fed and soon, so he walked off to Willie's place. Angel knew he could get his pigs blood there and it wasn't as far as going back to the mansion.
Angel walked into Wille's looking around and wondering what kind of trouble was in here tonight. There was always possible trouble at Willie's and Angel knew it. That was why he didn't normally come in to get his dinner. Willie watched him from behind the bar and unlike most times he looked terrified. Angel wondered at this, but didn't worry about it to much. After all Willie was more or less a coward and Angel was fairly scary when he wanted to be.
Angel found him a spot that was at the end of the bar so that he could face most of the patrons here. He didn't like the idea of getting caught off guard tonight of all nights. This might be a very dangerous thing for any demon to attempt to do. His mind still haunted him with thoughts of Riley and his Willow together. Willie, a little more reluctant than normal came to him and asked what he wanted. Angel smiled evily and simply stated " the regular Willie, of course. Unless you have something that could interest me." The last comment thrown out just to see Willie squirm.
He was surprised when Willie began to tell him about his encounter with "the tall blonde man in denim complete with jean jacket.". Angel's eyes instantly flashed amber as the ridges on his head snapped into place. "And just what did you tell him, Willie?". His voice taking on a growl, he watch as the smaller man fidget with his sponge. Willie told Angel just what he had told Riley the night before and he told Angel how Riley had threaten him. Angel only nodded knowing now that Riley might well be young but he was not as stupid as he had first thought. "Drink now." was all Angel said to the fearful man as he let his features return to human. Willie was off quickly getting what he had requested.
From across the bar a very pretty woman sat watching the whole set of events. When Willie left she walked slowly over to Angel and asked if she could sit beside him. He only nodded, and she smiled scooting in beside him as close as she could. Her eyes were a strange shade of gray and her hair was a dark red. Her small body was tight in all the right places and he couldn't help but notice she look a little like his red witch. Angel listen to her voice, but didn't really hear her. His thoughts were on his Wollow, so much so that he didn't at first notice how she was looking at him.
Suddenly he understood something she had said although he wasn't sure what she was asking. "You are Angelus aren't you?' her voice breathy as she said his soulless name. Angel nodded, "Sometimes, he answered, but not tonight" With that he downed his mug and set it back on the counter. The woman smiled greedily at him but lowered her head when she caught the growl Angel had issued. He stood up and backed away from the bar turning with a quick smooth movement. He was barely noticed leaving except for the redhead still sitting at the bar. Watching her glass her eyes flash amber then back to the normal shade. She tapped the side of her glass and Willie came over to refill it with the dark red liquid.
Angel looked out into the night as he walked away from the bar. His thoughts centered on what to do next. Giving up was outta the question, so he had to put together a plan. One that would include somehow bumping Riley and bringing Willow closer to him. Walking and thinking were how Angel dealt with the strain of not being able to know what was happening yet. Not being able to do anything about what might be happening. His rage at the lack of choices was making him crazy, and his inner demon wasn't helping. "He is touching her, the demon hissed, He is touching her the way you want to touch her." Angel had to shake himself to regain his mind, he pulled his cell phone from his pocket and made a quick call to Fred.
"Angel Investigations, we help the hopless" the chipper voice of Cordelia came from the small receiver. "Hey Delia, It's me" he started. His mind made up he began to ask her questions starting with where was Fred. After a fairly long conversation he hung up and stopped to see just where he was. He calculated how long it would take him from here, and then took off. Sometimes his vampiric speed was a really good thing.
Soldier Boy;
Willow sat up in the bed and giggled at Riley, he was playing commando and tunneling under the sheets. She squealed and jumped out of the bed running for the bathroom. Riley caught her before she could close the door and they both fell naked in front of the bathroom door laughing. Willow thought she wouldn't be able to catch her breath and even Riley's face was turning a little red. They began to calm down holding each other close and smiling.
Willow raise a delicate hand and brushed his cheek with it bringing it down to his chin then tapping his lower lip with her index finger. He tired to catch the errant finger with his lips but she backed off giving him the " no no " look. He only smiled wider and kissed her lips sucking and nibbling them gently. He stopped a moment and looked at her. She felt like he was taking in every moment, every movement she made. His breath came a little raggedly and she wonder if he needed more of his meds. Riley saw the look in her eyes that told him she was worrying again. "What is it love", he asked her pulling her closer to his taunt body. Willow shook her head and he nodded consent. "Ok, you don't have to tell me." he wanted to ask more, to make her tell him. But he knew she could be more than stubborn. He could only wait and hope that she would tell him at a later date.
Riley's mind was full of the events over the past 24 hours. Willow filled almost every minute of them and he had to smile. She nudged him back to the present and gave him a quizzical look. Riley only shook his head and gave her his killer grin. She could almost feel her heart skip a beat. They both decided that it was time to go, she had things to get at her apartment and he had in his mind that he would not let her out of his site. She was so happy that she had today off, and she could just be with him. But they had things to do, and she wanted to get started.
Willow had dressed again and Riley was waiting at the door when she came out of the bathroom. He checked the time and found that it was still almost 20 minutes before the pick up team arrived. If he would have had his chance he would have not left then, he would have waited until they were gone. He didn't want to tell Willow that he was trying to avoid his military buddies. But at the same time he had no intention of going anyway, so what did it matter.
As they left the little motel room Riley glanced back at his room knowing he would not be staying in it much longer if he had his way. He and Willow would find a little bit bigger place than the apartment she was now in and move in together. Riley had no doubt that one day he would "pop" the question. But for now he was letting her call all the shots. She needed to feel as if she didn't have to make any fast moves. She had made enough choices over the last couple of days, he thought.
Willow made her way to Riley's car and waited for him to unlock the door and let her in. Out of the corner of her eye she thought she saw someone passing the building but when she looked up no one was there. Her heart began to race anyway and she smiled nervously up to Riley when he opened the door for her. Riley squinted his eyes briefly as if listening to something then he shut the door behind her. Then he walked around and got in himself. Riley knew someone was watching them, he could hear who ever it was moving in the shadows.
Could it be Angel, was a thought, or could it be some other night monster around. Either way, Riley had taken the precaution of resupplying his jacket with stakes and other things that would help him in a fight with most types of undead or demons. As he slid into his side of the hummer he looked around wondering just where in the shadows was the watcher at. Then he glanced at Willow and gave a quick smile starting the engine and pulling out of the parking spot. All with the feeling that at any moment they would be attacked or at the very least stopped. They were not, and Riley sighed his relief letting a real smile touch his lips again.
Making a Move;
Angel watched as the hummer left the parking lot of the slightly rundown motel. He knew they were most likely going back to Willow's place. But Angel wasn't trusting himself enough to confront Willow and Riley together. He knew he would need to talk to Riley, away from Willow. They had to have an understanding, man to man, well in his case man to vampire. Angel simply took off in the direction of her apartment and managed to get there first.
She would be expecting to see him tonight sometime, but he wanted to talk to Riley before she had a chance to " let him down easy". Angel wasn't happy with the idea of being second best and would not take no for an answer, yet. He would find out Riley's intentions and then he would decide. Maybe Riley really loved her, in which case he had to let her go if that is what she wanted. His demon was running riot, "NO, she is ours, we have played the souls game and he is going to let her go." The last comment made him growl low in his throat. Somehow he would have to find a way to reason even within himself. As he stood outside the apartment that Willow lived in and waited, the battle that was already raging in him would not let up.
Angel stepped back into the shadows as he saw them pull up and park. Willow got out and went up to the door while Riley seemed to be getting something from his car. The second Willow disappeared into the building Angel stepped into view and waited for Riley to notice him. He didn't have to wait long, as Riley still bent over in the back of the hummer said, "I guess you already know what is going on here." The statement was flat and to the point, Angel really did have to respect the man. Most mortals when faced with a 240 plus year old vamp would be terrified.
Riley seemed almost as if he was expecting this and welcomed the chance to set things strait. Angel could feel his monster howling in anger at the arrogant mortal. Quick scenes flashed in his mind, none of them pretty. All of them had Riley more or less in pieces. Angel just raised an eyebrow at Riley's comment and answered. "Yes I think I do, but *you* know this if far from over".
Angel was using his tone to belie his inner fears that it was already to late, and to hopefully make Riley unsure. He could tell only minor things that let him know he had hit his mark. Riley closed the back of the hummer after putting his bag on the ground and turned to face Angel. His face showing a type of resolve that Angel had seen before in his little red headed witch. Anger held in check Angel could tell Riley was dealing with his own inner demons. Self doubt and knowing that his rival for Willow's attentions was Angel himself.
Angel didn't want to be arrogant, well the souled side of him didn't but his demon told him he should have no problem dispatching this whelp. Riley crossed his arms in a defiant stance and watched Angel move gracefully around to his side. "You know we need to talk about this, alone. I don't think Willow needs to know, she would be unhappy with the things that we as men, would talk about." Riley nodded and looked at his watch, he knew his military buddy's would be at the top of the building in maybe 10 minutes or so. His mind raced with possibilities and he decided, "Yeah OK then, but you will need to meet me on the roof. I will tell Willow something so that she won't worry about me."Angel not knowing about the, appointment, only nodded and walked back into the shadows.
Riley glanced at Angel as he moved away and narrowed his eyes. Picking up his bag he walked purposefully up the stairs and into the building. When he got to Willow's door he knocked gently and waited. She opened the door for him and he smiled, giving her a kiss on the top of her head. "Willow, he started, I really need to go get a couple of things from the store". His voice was light and showed none of the tension he was feeling. Willow only nodded absentmindedly, "I need to check out a couple of things on my lap top too", her voice was somewhat thin compared to her normal. She walked over to her little desk by her bookshelf, sitting down. Riley didn't notice the look she had given him as he left, if he had he would not have gone just then. He would have waited, found out what she was feeling before he would take off. Angel wasn't really that important when it compared to Willow. She was fast becoming his only reason to be, and he knew it.
In her heart she didn't know, worse, his leaving her at this time made her worry that he was making his meet with the guys in his old outfit. Would he leave or would he stay, she didn't really know. She may have moved to fast with Riley and he may run. Leaving her wondering what she could have done to make it better. After what happened with Buffy, she wasn't sure of herself. If Buffy couldn't keep him what chance did she have. But then Willow knew pretty much what happened to Riley and Buffy's relationship. That wasn't the problem here, she really felt like she loved him. Or was she just trying to get away from what Angel had to offer.
That thought began to menace her mind, hold her thoughts hostage so to speak. Willow was not ready to explore her feelings for Angel. He evoked things in her that were hard to describe. Things at this point that might be better left alone. So she had only her worries of what Riley would really want of her. Or what he didn't want, how could she cope if he left her now, she needed the chance to understand. Focusing her mind on what she wanted to do on the laptop. She booted up and began tapping away, wasting time until Riley was back, if he came back. She tried not to let her mind go there, not to think about what she might have to face if he did go.
Riley stepped out Willow's door and looked around, taking the stairs up to the top floor he was glad there was only 3 flights aside from Willow's floor. The building had been a good choice for the military group he was suppose to meet with. It at 4 stories was one of the tallest in Sunnydale. The roof was flat and open just right for a chopper to come in and land fairly quiet, and be off again before anyone really knew what was up.
As he stepped out into the open air he felt the wind as it picked up. His hearing caught a sound from behind him and he moved quickly out of the way. Angel stepped out from the shadows by the door to the roof smiling enough to make Riley feel even more uncomfortable. "So what is it you think we need to talk about?" Riley's jaw was tight and he made no apologies for his apprehensive look. Angel passed in front of him and smiled again. "Well, it seems you have won the first round here, kid" Angel's voice seemed to be letting Riley know he would not win the second. Riley made a sour face at the thought that he and Willow could be that simply dismissed as a couple. Angel did not seem to have any thought that she would want to stay with Riley.
With a reproachful look Riley watched as Angel walked in front of him again. Somehow Riley felt as if the vampire was thinking of the best way to deal with what was going on right now. He couldn't help but hope that Angel would try to get physical with him. It would make it all to easy since he knew that he would not be alone in a very few moments. Riley's ears picked up at the helicopter as it came just into view over Angel's shoulder. Angel was saying something to the effect that he didn't really want to interfere with Willow's happiness but he also wasn't sure Riley could give her that. Riley began to feel more and more pissed that he was dictating to him what he should and shouldn't do for Willow. This "vampire" was just another Sib, T that needed to be put down. He was the cause of the break up between him and Buffy, and Riley would be damned if he was going to ruin his chances with Willow. She was what he needed most in his life.
Riley's voice became hushed and angry as he told Angel to go to hell. Angel only smiled and nodded. "I have already been there boy, and thanks to the wonderful witch when I came back it was with my soul, my heart and mind intact." His interest in what Riley had to say fading as he became more aggressive, Riley wasn't listening to him. He was acting like Angel had no idea what he was talking about. Angel had known Willow far longer than the boy in front of him. He knew what she needed what she would like.
Willow was not Riley's soul mate, she was mine, Angel thought. That's when he decided not to let Riley get away with the way he was disregarding his knowledge of the adorable redhead. Facing off with Riley he stood nose to nose and gave Riley a shove to make a point. Riley shoved back not wanting to be put down by this demon, not wanting to deal with this he was ready to fight. Ready to deal whatever blows would get Angel out of his life with Willow. He raised his fist to land a blow to Angel's head but his hand was caught and was twisted around behind his back. Angel held a tight grip on Riley's arm. Riley returned action for action and delivered a blow this time to Angel's instep with his heel. Angel pushed Riley hard away from him, and watch in slow motion as Riley's foot met with something making him stumble.
Angel thought to himself "He is falling, he is going to fall off the building!" Angel's reaction was to run to the side and try to catch him. But Riley was already tripping over the side when Angel realized that he was falling. The thought crossed Angel's mind that Riley might have really been a fight if he wasn't falling off to his death. When Angel got where Riley went over the side he caught site of the helicopter that was across from where he stood. It would be on top of him in seconds, he needed to leave. Angel took a quick glance down to where the body of Riley laid, his leg twisted at an odd angle. He hadn't meant for Riley to fall, he hadn't known that their little pushing match would end up this way. He could see and smell the blood coming from Riley's mouth and nose. The whole scene sent a chill over Angel, something in him went cold and full of fear. Not just because he felt Riely was dead, but also because of Willow.
Looking up he noticed that this wasn't a police chopper but a commando type. His mind put two and two together figuring that this was some of Riley's old friends. Angel wanted to stay and tell the military that was coming up on him that it had been an accident. But they didn't seem to want to hear it. Shots rang out and Angel felt the bullets barely missing him. More shots and he was hit this time. Three of the bullets had found their mark in his body. His own blood now spilling onto the ground. Angel knew then there was no talking to these guys and he began to run. Diving off the other side of the building he was on and onto a lower building then down through it's stair well. With speed that would amaze even other vampires he descended down and down, heading for the street once he hit the ground floor. Never looking back until he was at the sewer entrance two or so blocks away. He was in pain, even as the holes in his body were already healing. But he needed to feed soon to help them heal faster.
Angel walked the rest of the way to his mansion wondering how Willow was going to deal with this news. He knew he would have to tell her, that he couldn't just let her go without knowing. But at the same time what would he tell her, that he was the cause of Riley's death. That he didn't even stay to make amends, to deal with what he did. Angel felt as if he were being torn apart, he knew she would hate him now. There was nothing he could do to make this one go away, to make it better. He had in effect lost her and took her love away, taking with it any possible real happiness she could have had. It was his fault, she would hate him, his fault Riley was dead. Another innocent on his long line of things to live his immortal life with.
Why was it everything he touched would go bad. Angel's thoughts were making him crazy, and he wanted nothing but to end his torment. The only problem with that was Willow, he needed somehow to make amends to her. To help her get over and through this, he would in fact have to be there for her in all things now. Maybe not in the way he wanted to in the beginning. But he would take the responsibility, and deal with whatever she needed. She would never want for anything and maybe he could bring her back with him to L,A, if only to keep a closer watch on her. Delia would be more than happy to have another woman around and Fred would love the mental challenges that Willow could bring. In his mind it was settled, he would atone for his loss of control today, he would protect Willow and hope that someday she would be able to forgive him.
Fate Interfers;
Willow heard the sounds of a chopper over head and she cringed. Was that Riley's friends, she thought. If it was this next thirty minutes would tell the tale. He would either come back to her or they would possibly never see each other again. She was terrified, the waiting was driving her nuts. Very loud bang sounds made her nearly jump out of her skin, Willow ran to the window and looked out into the street. She couldn't see anything from her side of the building. Apparently whatever was happening was on the other side. As she went to duck back in she heard a second set of shots and caught a quickly moving shadow that seemed to fly through the air above her. Willow ran to her closet and grabbed a sweater pulling it on quickly as she headed for the door. Then up to the roof she started climbing the stairs faster than she would have thought she could.
When she finally got to the roof top and opened the door she was stunned. There was some of Riley's old gang and they were moving away fast. She didn't see Riley anywhere but she knew where he had be. He really did leave her, left her here alone after what they had shared together. She stood watching as the helicopter moved further and further away. This is how Buffy must have felt she thought distractedly to herself. Her thoughts not making much sense now she felt her cheek begin to itch, and rubbed it, Willow was surprised to see that she was crying.
until next time......