Chapter 3
When Willow arrived at Angel's house, the usually quiet vampire was nearly bouncing up and down with excitement. He was so happy that Willow had agreed to eat with him. 'Maybe,' he thought, 'she likes me. Oh, wow, she's so beautiful. She's like fire. I guess I'm like ice... being a vampire and all. I don't know why she'd have anything to do with me, but I'm really glad she's here.'
While Angel was having the conversation with himself, Willow was looking around the dining room. It was decorated with countless candles and there was a lovely meal set out for her on the table with fine china and silverware. 'Vampires don't like fire,' she thought in awe, 'he did this for me.' "Oh Angel... This is wonderful! How did you do this in an hour?"
Angel grinned happily. "Vampires are fast. I'm glad you like it. Please come and eat before your food gets cold."
"Where's your meal?" frowned Willow.
"I... Are you sure, Willow?" asked Angel, embarrassed about his need for blood.
"Of course I am, silly." Willow took his hand, and squeezed it gently. "You are my friend and you are very special just the way you are." Angel looked at her with wonder, and kissed her hand. He then went to the kitchen to heat his mug of blood, and joined Willow at the table.
Angel and Willow talked about many things, and Willow was pleased to be able to make Angel laugh at her stories. Later, after walking Willow home, Angel said, "I had a great evening with you. I'm not sure that I've ever laughed so much."
"It looks good on you," said Willow, fondly looking up at the tall, dark vampire.
Angel smiled at the small redhead, and asked, "Would you like to do this again?"
"Yes," she said. "I had a very good time with you."
They were silent for a moment, neither one wanting to say good-night. Angel looked into Willow's beautiful green eyes and asked Willow if he could kiss her good-night. She looked surprised, but shyly nodded. Very gently, Angel touched his lips to hers, and said good-night. Willow watched him go down the street until he was out of sight. She closed the door and the curtains and went to bed.
-TBC-