Sign In Sign-Up

Welcome!

Close

Would you like to make this site your homepage? It's fast and easy...

Yes, Please make this my home page!

No Thanks

  Don't show this to me again.

Close

Blue Moon Love -- by Dagney

Rated: NC-17

Description: Willow cast a spell with suprising results.

Note: I used Britspeak a web page for some British Colloquism and history pages for information about Leeds in Yorkshire. Feedback -- Please this is my first. Help!

Disclaimer: It all belongs to Joss, no infringement dared, just for fun.

Willow walked with tripidation into the clearing. She scanned the tree line looking for signs of any vamps or hellmouth monsters. Her stomach was filled with butterflies. Her arms and back were tired from carrying her backpack and duffel bag filled with her Wicca cache. She thought to herself about the preperation it had taken to plan these ritual spells. This was no easy task with Giles about. < They don't call him the watcher for nothing. > Willow knew he would forbid her to try this spell. He would quote all the reasons why it was dangerous, what could go wrong. < I know I can do this Just think how happy Buffy and Angel will be when his soul is permenently bound to his body. > Willow remembered how easy it was to find the soul-binding spell. It was so simple. The problem she encountered is that the spell had to be cast before the soul was lost. Angel had lost his soul twice. < Even though I gave Angel back his soul, Giles says that any true bliss would banish h! is soul and Angelus would be back. Unholy Hades! Just the thought of Angelus on a killing rampage makes me faint. The binding spell needed to be cast before he lost his soul, before he became a vampire. This was a problem.

Willow smiled to herself < Where there is a Willow there is a way. I believe in the power of love. The ancient text wasn't easy to find, a spell that allowed travel over time and space. > Willow reviewed the conditions to cast the spell. First, the spell must be conducted at midnight under a blue moon. No man made elements would cross time and space. Willow pulled out handmade leather shoes, a hand woven wool cape, a long wool shirt and vegtable dyed cotton shirt from her backpack. Willow quickely changed into these items, glancing around nervously. < With my luck I'll be half dressed and get attacked by some ghoul. > She placed silver Irish coins into her skirt pockets.

She made a magic circle with white lime. She used a compass to mark east, south, west and north. She placed four white candles in each clay chalice at the four points. She sprinkled earth around the candles marking north to represent earth, to the west the chalice was given water from a natural spring, to represent water. Small pieces of oak kindling were placed in the chalice to the east to represent fire and three sticks of incense placed into the candle marking south representing air. The ancient text had explained that a meaningful tailsmen once possessed by the person sought would act like a beacon across time and space to be united with the owner.

Willow held in her hands a silver locket; it was slightely tarnashed and scratched and despite her trying she had been unable to open it. She placed the silver chain and locket around her neck. < I can't beleive how sacred I was when I stole...no borrowed this from Angel's trunk in the mansion. I would have perferred his ring, but how was I going to get it. Getting the locket was like an episode of "Mission Impossible" >

Willow unrolled the sheepskin scroll she had transcribed the time travel spell upon. Willow knew that if the spell was done right she would travel back in time to pre-vampire Angel complete the spell and return only moments after she had left in this timeline. Willow had given Amy a sealed envelope to be given to Giles if she hadn't been seen in 48 hours. < I ready to begin.>

To perform the spell she had to find her own quiet energy.

Willow stood facing south, inhale... exhale.. Several minutes past, she opened her eyes, placed her right hand over the locket.

"Goddess Aphrodite thee stirs the air with love for all creation, hear my plea.

Winds flee before thee, bringer of grace, beauty and love.

Reunite me with the lover of the locket."

Turning to the west:

" Godess Thetis nymph of the seas hear my plea

Accept my salty tears as homage to your power

Let me cross over to the lover of the locket."

Turning to the north:

"Goddess Demeter protectress of earth, hear my plea

Giver of earth's good gifts

Deliver me unto the lover of the locket."

Turning to the east:

"Goddess Io thee stirs human heart's with love aflame

I open my heart to love's arrow

Unite me with my true love".

Willow saw only white light, felt buzzing in her head, felt like she was falling..opened her mouth to scream.. suddenly she felt weak and dizzy.

< What is that awful smell, road kill? > Willow looked around and was in some sort of alley. < O.K lets find Angel, Oh I wonder what he'ss look like all young and alive and.. > Willow walked out of the alley onto a rut -filled street, aligned with various shops, most of which were closed. She heard rowdy voices comming from what looked like a pub. < I bet he's there, after all what would a 19th century guy be doing except hanging out with his buds. >

Willow nervousely walked through the doorway, only several patrons glanced her way. He eyes quickely scanned the pub. In the back playing cards with several men..Willow saw a broad shouldered man, dark wavey hair with his back to her.

< It's him, Oh calm down be cool, my knees are shaking. >

She approached the table with trepidation, "Ah hmm", she cleared her throat placing her hand on his shoulder. He pushed back his chair and turned around. Willow smiled nervousely; saw baby blue eyes, chiseled cheekbones cover with stubble, skin the color of butternut,

< Oh Godess its.. its.. > "Spike" she managed to croak. At that moment her legs gave way and the room began to spin.

William didn't recognize this lithe, green eyed, red haired women falling into his lap.

"Who's the little crumpet" asked Jonathan, sitting to his right.

"Is she a friend of yours lad?" chuckled Henry."

"I never saw her before, and I think I woul remember a winsome creature like this. Randy, get me some Applejack for Red here," William said.

Jarred whined, "Knowing you, this is some scrubber you paid to come and break up the game now that you've got our winnings."

" Don't be a bloddy berk, Jarred. You'r just crying cause you lost your weeks wages and you've got no monry to get buggered." William brushed silky stands of hair from the fair skined beauty, as she stired in his arms.

"Hello Pet, feeling better?" he asked.

Willow groaned, < What have I done, this is Spike..This is a very warm, alive man, whose lap I'm sitting on..He's looking at me..too warm..too close> Willow began to blush, "Spike let me up"

"Alright Red, but me name's not Spike"

Willow stood on shaky legs, < Something is very wrong, what have I done! >

Jarred spoke, "William, I know this is some sort of trickery on us, she know you work on the railroad with us, and keeps calling ye Spike. Just because you can lay rail faster than anyone on the crew..."

Randy came over from the bar with a pint of Applejack, and handed it to Willow. Randy noted the girl looked like she was about to cry.

"You look a might peckish, lass, would you like some bubble and squeak or how's about bangers and mash?" Randy asked.

"Where am I?" < Oh Zeus, what year is it, everyone sounds English >

"She don't sound like she's from here" remarked Henry. "Have you hit your head, are you ill?" Jonathan added. "What's your name?" Jarred chimed.

William rose and offered the red head his seat, pulled in another and sat down. Willow fell into the vacant seat and took a drink from the stein. She coughed violently, and almost spew the liquid out, but managed to swallow it. It burned her throat and made her eyes water. All the men started to laugh. She glared at them.

"Where am I?" she repeated

"Your in Leeds." William said.

"Where is that exactly?" she asked.

"Are you daft, this is Yorkshire providence," remarked Jarred.

"Who are you, and what are you doing here?" William asked softly.

< Oh Goddess, What are you going to say Will, I'm from the future, I'm a witch, why not stoke up the fire now so you can burn me to a crisp before dawn ... what was I thinking >

"My name is Willow, I'm from America and I'm.... looking for a friend, I mistook... Sp... William for him."

"Well, you may not be from around here missy, but you'd better not let Mary, Randy's wife catch ya, she don't like your kind working in the pub. But I'll be glad to show you over to tent row and give you a tour." Jarred winked.

Willow shot up out of the chair spilling her drink all over William, " I am not that kind of girl and don't be getting any ideas!". She noticed what she had done, looking sheepish " Oh gosh I'm sorry...William."

"It's all right Willow" he said wiping at the cider. < I know this gal is not a whore, raised by a whore in a bawdy house, I've seen them all ages, shapes and sizes. But who is she and what is she doing alone in a pub on a Saturday night? >

"Let's show some respect for our visitor" William replied.

"'Well the game's over, Will'm you've won most of me weeks wages, I'm headed back to tent row and get some sleep" said Henry rising.

"I'll come along" Jonathan said following.

"What about you lass, last chance for a warm..." said Jarred.

"Why don't you sod off" William growled.

The three men settled there bill with Randy and left. Willow's head felt like it was about to split open. < Now what>.

Willow's head felt like it was going to explode. She was so tired and had gotten herself into quite a "bloody" mess. She needed some sleep and in the morning she would figure out what went wrong.

"Randy can I rent a room for the night?" she asked.

"I'm sorry luv, William rents the room upstairs by the week when he wins at Poker, and he usually does. Mary and me have only a small room in back of the pub."

"Oh I see," she replied weakly "...could I just stay here in the pub for the night, I could sleep over there in the corner booth?"

"Me Mary says I got a soft heart lass, she be back tomorrow and if she finds out I sent you off into the night, she'd have my head." Randy said.

Willow managed a small smile, "Thank You, I can pay you," she said reaching into her pocket.

"Be off with ye now, watch out for the vermin, they come out late at night looking for scraps." Randy said as left.

William cleared his throat and said, "Red you can share my room."

"Oh no" Willow said shaking her head and looking down, "Thanks, I be fine here, night."

< You bloody fool she probably thinks you were trying to get into her knickers, well the thought had crossed me mind but, she lost and alone and ....Think man the last time you got attacked was to some stray kitten when you were a boy. >

"Good night Red," William said climbing the stairs.

Willow curled up into the corner booth, she thought she might start to cry but was just to exhausted, she spread her wool cape over her and feel asleep as her head hit the hard bench.

William striped down to his cotton y-fronts and crawled into the large feather bed. He tossed and turned, he thought about the little kitten he had rescued a as boy. He brought the creature back from the brink of death. He remember how helpless and angry he felt when one of his Mother's customers killed it in a fit of rage.

He rolled over and got out of bed. < I'm not a helpless child but a grown man >

He walked downstairs and picked up the sleeping girl into his arms. She shifted and sighed softly in her sleep. He placed her on the far side of the bed, and lay down on the opposite side. William fell asleep listening to Willow's soft breath.

< Come on Willow get up you have a history test today > She turned over and rolled down into a warm hard body. Her eyes flew open and she was staring into a very well muscled chest. She scrambled backward so fast she landed on the floor, with a loud crack upon her tailbone.

"Oweeee" she cried She saw a sleepy looking William look down at her from the spot she had just vacated.

Willow on her ass, couldn't get up fast enough, so she scrambled back another few feel on the floor like a crab.

William grinned, "Don't worry luv, I didn't get into your knickers. I like my women conscious and willing."

Willow face was aflame she got up with all the dignity she could muster. She turned her back on William and approached the vanity, pouring water into the accompanying basin.

"As soon as I freshen up I'll be on my way." Willow reached up to touch the silver locket.

"My locket it gone! " she cried in alarm. "Oh Goddess, I need it I can't leave," she cried her eyes searching the floor. She approached the bed and started searching it.

"Calm down, let me get dressed and I'll help ye find your locket." He said pulling on his breeches. He went to the vanity to wash his face.

Willow felt panic stricken, she tossed covers off the bed, got on her hands and knees and looked on the floor. "It must be downstairs," she cried running out the door.

William followed and help Willow search the pub.

"It gone," Willow moaned, tears welling up in her eyes. "I'll never get home."

"It's all right, Red, we'll keep looking. Let retrace your steps, where were you last...?" William asked.

"Yeah, the alley," Willow tore out the door with William in pursuit.

Upon entering the alley Willow saw the burlap bag she had put some of her Wicca supplies in. "Oh there she pointed," and raced to pick it up. She dumped her things onto the ground; the scroll, candles, incense, various herbs, and gemstones. No Locket.

William kneelt beside Willow. "I bet it fell off when I arrived here," she said scanning the surrounding area.

William began to pick up the items dropped by Willow and placed them back into the bag. " What is all the stuff for?" he asked

"Just girl stuff" she answered.

"What does this locket look like?" he asked.

"It on a long silver chain, the locket is kind of oval ... and oblong and.... has some scratches, ...it's kind of tarnished," she answered, kicking up dust with her feet and hands as she continued to search the alley.

"What's in the thing?" he asked curiously. < must be pretty valuable for her to be in such a tizzy over an old locket. >

"I don't know I was never able to get it open, it was kinda old ... and stuck," she replied.

< Women, no wonder he tried to steer clear > "Willow, I don't think we're going to find the locket here. Where else have you been? " he asked.

"Lets look in the street and boardwalk near the pub" she said with enthusiasm.

After scouring the street and walkway for almost an hour.

"Willow I don't think we're going to find the bloody thing here," he said softly touching her arm.

Tears ran down Willow's face. "You don't understand. I need it... I can't go home without it." She sobbed.

"Come on don't cry, crying never fixed anything ... only makes your green eyes red. We'll think of something. Come, lets go back to the pub get some food in your stomach and well talk about it." William offered.

Willow bit her lip, and sniffled O.K. I'm kind of hungry.

When they enter the pub, Mary came over to William and asked: " Who's your new friend lad? Me Randy spoke of you. Are you allright child?" she asked with concern.

"Hello, I'm Willow, your husband has been very kind and so has William." Willow said reaching out her hand to Mary's.

"Can we have some breakfast Mary?" William asked.

"Sit down and I'll bring out my famous porridge," she clucked.

"Why is the locket so valuable?" he asked

"I need it to reverse the spe.... < Watch it Rosenberg. You can't tell him your a witch .. a good witch ... well not so talented ... you screwed up... Oh but I'm no good at lying ... stick close to the truth. > She cleared her throat and started over: "To return to my friend so he can go home and be with his true love."

Mary returned to the table with steaming porridge, and tea. She placed then down with a smile and bustled off to wait on some other customers.

William shook his head, " I not sure I understand, can you start over?"

< You'd better think fast Will > Willow took a deep breath. She knew she was horrible at lying but had to explain somehow, or at least some part of what was going on. < He had been very nice so far, very helpful and sweet. Maybe he can help me. >

Willow put on her resolve face. She looked at William, sipping his tea. < Oh my stars he is so handsome. His hair ... dark brown ... looks so soft and long...and his cheekbones and nose..and those ..fall into the sky blue eyes.. when he looks at me with those eyes I forget what I'm saying. I admit I found Spike sexy is a very bad girl kinda way but William is...>

"Willow, are you going to explain?" William asked.

"Sure" she said looking down at her porridge. "The locket belonged to my friend Angel who is in love with one of my best friends Buffy... Well, they can't be together cause .. < don't go there Will > ...well a long story.. but I came here looking for Angel to help him so that he and Buffy can get back together, " She explained looking at William.

"So you came to England looking for your friend Angel to help him and Buffy ... reunite." He repeated.

"That's right," She shook her head.

"But what about the locket?" he asked.

< Gee most men don't listen to a word I say and this guy ...is mister hang on every word > "Oh the locket, well you see ... ah mnnnn.. Good porridge.. How's yours?" she inquired.

"Pet, you don't have to explain if you'd rather not" he said.

Willow was feeling kind of embarrassed and guilty < Stop being so nice > She thought she might start to cry again. < I wish I could tell you everything.

I'm Willow the Reliable Net Girl.. friends with the Vampire Slayer.. Witch.. from the Hellmouth. By the way don't go to London...watch out for an Irish vampire demon and a loony brunette. Wait a minute, maybe I've altered the time line, maybe all that stuff won't happen. Giles... I need Giles... he'd know what I should do. >

Willow wiped a tear away. "William the locket belonged to Angel ... and now that I can't find him ... the locket should go to Buffy.. I can't go home without it... I can't go home." She whispered.

<Great William you've made her cry. I know she is not telling the truth, but who an I to judge. Maybe she is running from something ... or someone.. There are lots of things I wouldn't want her to know about me. Gee how about, I'm a Bastard, my Mother was a whore, died of the pox. I left the bawdy house after being raped by Mother's pimp, who wanted to put me to work. I ran away lived off the streets not much better than a rat. >

He reached out and touched Willow's hand, "Hey since your new to this city and this is my day of rest how about I give you a tour of this fine town?"

Willow smiled at him, her face lighting up. " Terrific."

William decided to take Willow to see the River Aire.

"Tell me about yourself William?" Willow asked smiling.

William was admiring how the sunshine looked on her red mane, the breeze blew it softly about her neck and face. "Not much to tell really." He said shyly.

"Come on Spike, since when have you been closed mouth." She said teasing.

William stopped, " Who is this 'Spike? You keep confusing me with this bloke."

He questioned, somewhat irritated.

< Great Willow, you should know you can't be around a good looking guy without getting sweaty palms and putting your foot in your mouth. >

"I'm sorry William ... you remind me a little of this guy back home. But your nothing like him really," she said touching his arm.

< Damn, everytime we touch it feel like an electric current, keep your sweaty palms to yourself.>

< Your in way over your head,... every time we touch my body starts to flood with desire ... Why this girl? She a bloody Yank, and mighty strange at that... and I feel all jealous of some bloke she knows...I'm a hopeless sod. >

Willow broke the tension, Oh there is a newspaper pointing to a street vender. She pulled out some Irish coins from her pocket. "William, can you help me I'm not sure about these coins or the cost of anything." She asked.

Willow purchased the paper and made a note of the date 1869. " Queen Victoria, " she exclaimed.

"What about the Queen," William said looking at Willow.

"Victoria is the Queen, It's the Industrial Revolution. oooh ohh and sweat shops and..." she bubbled.

"Are you all right?" Have you had too much sun? He said eyebrows raised.

Willow laughed, " no I just realized what... < time> kinds of things were going on here in England.

< See she is a strange girl>

William showed Willow the new Cookridge Street Bathhouse. They admired the oriental design. Willow remarked, " It must be strange taking a bath with a bunch of strangers. Is it expensive? Have you used them here?"

"Its not too expensive, so I've been told. Most of the railroad workers don't bath regularly. That why, when I have the funds, I rent a room above Randy's Pub. I hate sleeping in a small tent with three other unwashed bollocks."

"Well, you smell nice enough, tell me your secret, 'Willow said coyly, smiling at William.

< Gads, I think I'm blushing, how can that wisp of a girl get to me. >

"Well, the old fashion way heated water and a copper tub. Since we're sharing secrets, tell me Pet, where did you get that lovely hair?" He said reaching out to capture a strand between his fingers. < So silky.. and her lips one taste..>

Willow 's eyes were drawn to his smiling lips,< Oh god, those lips.. to kiss those lips. > She looked down and replied " That's for me to know and you to find out!"

William, a voice shouted. William's poker mate Henry approached. "Hello luv, feeling better today? You look a might flushed."

"Hello" replied William and Willow. "I 'm fine thank you, William was just showing me around Leeds. It truly is a beautiful city."

"Where you headed mate?" asked William.

"Off to Boer Lane, Mr. Beers has the perfect establishment. I need to purchase some new breeches. He has clothing goods on the second floor and a smashing pub on the first". commented Henry.

"Clothes" echoed Willow. "I need some things, since it looks like I'll be staying a while. Can we tag along?"

"I'll be have a bit of ale before I pick up my breeches" explained Henry as they approached the establishment.

William accompanied Willow upstairs. Willow oohed and awed over the pretty things, but choose two simple cotton gowns. One a forrest green, the second a navy blue. William browsed about the store, and picked up a new shirt for himself. He approached Willow, who's back was to him." Hello Red, find something else." She turned around somewhat startled, she was holding up a cream silk chemise in one hand and a black corset in the other.

William's mouth was suddenly bone dry, and his body was on full alert. He stammered slightly, "I came to tell you I'm going downstairs to join Henry for a drink.. and you can meet me when you're done."

"I'll join you shortly," Willow croaked

< What is the matter with you, I've seen women in their underclothing since I was a babe... but that just helped me imagine what Willow would look like ... Stop, it man, for Christ sake your in a public place... >

Willow swallowed hard as she watched William walk away.

William went out into the street a few minutes to collect himself. < Don't get any ideas, Willow isn't interested in the like's of you. We have nothing in common. She's a Yank, on some sort of romantic lark, sticking her nose in her friends business ... just cause she a pretty bit of fluff. She talks nonsense about lasting love, naive chit ... there's only supply and demand as me ma use to say ... people be wanting and needing things there's always somebody to 'supply' the service. All's I need is find me a scrubber to ease my lust. >

William joined up with his mate Henry in Beers Pub. William ordered a drink. "So me boy tell me, about the pretty lass," winked Henry.

"There's nothing to tell, I'm helping the little girl out since she's new to Leeds. I've traveled about a great deal and know how difficult it can be to adjust to a new place." William stated.

"Oh come now, Admit you got a fancy for the lass." Chided Henry.

"I told you Henry, the girl's not my type, I'm helping her out a bit, nothing more." William replied.

Willow overheard the men as she approached. < See Willow your teenage hormones are imagining things, why would a handsome guy like him be interested in you for. Besides, I'm going to rework the spell and I'll be back in SunnyHell in no time ... with my boyfriend Oz and my friends...> "Hey Guys," Willow said with more enthusiasm than she felt. "Would you like something lass?" asked Henry. "Yes, please, I would love a diet Pepsi." She said without thinking. "A what? Is that some sort of fancy Yank drink? Henry asked. " Something like that yeah, but how about a lemonade instead." she answered

Willow asked polite questions about Henry and William's work on the railroad. Henry asked her about her home. Willow shared that her parents traveled a lot. She talked about her love of books, and her friends and only slipped up a couple of times when she made reference to movies, and her computer. Willow covered up quickly and usually changed the subject and asked Henry something.

"It's getting kind of late, do you mind if we go William? I need to find a room for the night, and start looking for a job, as I'm almost out of money." She asked.

Henry piped up, "Rooms are very expensive here. Willow, why don't you stay at Randy and Mary's Pub again. The city keeps growing and it isn't safe for a women alone. William won't mind sharing his room do you lad? He's an honorable lad, you'll be safe with him, besides Mary wouldn't allow nothing else "

"I've been enough trouble and Mary, Randy and William have been too kind." Willow replied.

"Nonsense, Mary would love to have some female companionship, as a matter of fact she said she was looking for a nice girl to help her in the pub. Mary is fussy, she had a hard time finding someone just right. See you've got a room and a job lass, have another drink?" Henry smiled.

Willow rolled her eyes and laughed, "I really can't impose on..."

"Come now" said Henry taking Willow's arm, " The pubs on me way back to camp, let me have a word with Randy, I can sweet talk Mary into anything. Are you coming William?"

William glared at Henry but followed. Upon reaching the pub, Henry cornered Mary and within minutes, Mary approached Willow full of smiles, "follow me darling lets go fix up the room so as to be respectable for two unmarried persons, and tomorrow you can start helping me and Randy out with the pub."

"No... I... But.... Can..." Mary was marching Willow about like a drill sergeant, < How did I get myself into this.> Willow helped Mary fix up the room. They made a room divider by hanging an old white linen sheet. Mary used a down quilt and several wool blankets to make a sleeping pallet. Willow place several candles and an oil lamp under Mary's watchful eye.

"Oh but that's much better, child. Why don't you come down and have some supper?" Mary cooed.

"I'll wash up and change my dress first," Willow replied. < I also need some time to review my time travel spell to try and figure out how to get home. She looked at the scroll, reviewing the printed words matching them to her memory of events. Wait, the last stanza ... did I say 'unite me with my true love,' or 'unite me with my locket's true love. I don't know... Damn I need MY COMPUTER, I don't think I can get back without the locket... I don't know if I can live in 1869... my parents, oh God, Xander and Buffy, Giles and Oz... and my beanie babies and chocolate... > Tears welled up in Willow's eyes. < Stop it... I'll just find another spell or Amy will have told Giles and He'll know what to do.... I can think of this as one big school field trip, I should start taking notes... I could write a paper...>

Willow changed into the forest green dress, and brushed out her hair. She decided to pin it up, as it looked more flattering with the style of the dress. < Much better>

Willow noted that the pub was filling up with patrons. She saw William, Henry and Jonathan in the corner booth to her left. Willow caught a glimpse of a tweed and wire rim glasses to her right. "Giles, Oh Giles" she shouted. "I knew you'd find me" she said pushing her way towards him. He turned. Willow stopped dead in her tracks as she was overwhelmed with disappointment. "Miss" the man replied. Willow turned and bolted towards the stairs and her room.

William heard Willow's joyful cry and thought she was going to throw herself in the well dressed man's arms. She suddenly stopped in her tracks turned and bolted.

< What was that all about? > He decided to check on her.

He heard Willow's weeping as he stepped onto the top of the landing. He didn't know if he should go to her or leave her alone. < It sounds like her heart is breaking>

William opened the door and approached Willow's prone figure. "Red, are you all right? He asked softly, kneeling down next to her. She shook her head, "No. I 'm so alone ... and I''m afraid I'll never see..." she hiccupped ..." any of my friends or family again."

William felt helpless, he sat down next to Willow and pulled her into his arms. She pressed her head into the crook of his shoulder, and wrapped her arms tight around his back weeping harder. "You're not alone now... sh... sh.... it's all right..." he whispered into her ear, his hands brushing her hair and the back of her neck.

One-minute Willow felt her world had ended. The next she had this supercharged awareness of William's warm breath in her ear. His unique sent. She felt shivers down her spine as his callused hands petted the nape of her neck. Her breasts ached, pressing against his hard chest. The feel of his well muscled back under her hands. She had an overwhelming urge to run her hands through his hair and....< don't embarrass yourself, this man is trying to be your friend, your one and only friend here... Rejection isn't a good topper for depression and angst. >

William didn't know what possessed him to take Willow into his arms. Her skin was so soft. She smelled like lavender and vanilla. Her hands were kneading his back; her breath and tears caressed his neck, her breasts pressed against his chest, set him aflame. As he held her and soothed her, he felt like she was filling some deep void with warmth and goodness. Deep inside he felt an unknown sense of tranquility expand. That wasn't the only thing that was expanding. He began to panic; thinking Willow would notice his erection at any moment and be horrified and disgusted by him.

They both pulled away from each other. "I'm sorry William, I was just feeling so homesick." She explained wiping her nose, and getting up from the floor.

"It's all right" he replied huskily. William was afraid to move he wasn't sure he could.

"I saw someone downstairs that reminded me of my friend Giles, and it sunk in that I can't go home." She sighed, walking toward the vanity.

William took this as his chance to get up, he wanted to bolt, knew that would likely give him away and walked over and sat on his bed, his hands strategically placed upon his lap.

"What's keeping you from going back to America? Are you in some sort of trouble?" Is some wanker giving you trouble? Is it that bloke Angel or Spike?" he questioned."

Willow wanted to run across the room and throw herself into William's arms and forget about everything. "It's kinda confusing... you see I've come here to England by accident, I should have gone to Ireland to find Angel. Now it's too late to help him. < He's been turned into a demon already > Now I don't think he and Buffy can be together, ... and because of my actions < I lost the damn locket> .. I' ve...... < no way to get back> disappointed my friends..." she said sadly.

"Willow from what you've told me, you've risked a lot to help your friends. It seems to me that no matter what you may have done to upset them, they'll forgive you. If they don't than they are a bunch of daft bums."

Willow couldn't help smiling at William, "Thank you, lets end this pity party and get some dinner. Last one downstairs pays." she said racing out the door.

William chuckled and followed the mysterious red head.

Willow and William joined Jonathan and Henry in their corner booth. Jonathan waved Mary over. "What's on tonight's menu?" he asked.

"You have your choice of a pilchard butty; bubble and squeak or bangers and mash" Mary offered.

Willow giggled, all three men smiled. "I don't have any idea what you've just said Mary."

Henry tried to translate, "Pilchard is tiny fish, butty is bread".

"Oh a sardine sandwich, I'll pass" Willow replied scrunching up her face to avoid say yuck.

"Bubble and squeak is cabbage and potatoes, and bangers and mash is sausage and mashed potatoes." Henry continued.

"The last one sounds good." Willow said licking her lips. < So long Mickey'Dees>

"I have the pilchard butty, and how's about a pitcher of plonk for the table" Henry winked.

" Bubble and squeak for me, Mary" replied Jonathan.

"I have bangers and mash too Mary", thanks William said.

Randy brought the picture and glasses and poured plonk for everyone.

Willow tasted it, "mmmm... s'tart wine" she exclaimed.

The food came quickly, Willow, couldn't help notice how fast Henry ate. "You remind me of my friend Xander, he'll eat anything. One time when we were kids playing truth or dare he ate sardines with chocolate sauce and ice cream. He actually liked it." She said laughing.

Conversation flowed freely as did the plonk.

William noticed Willow's fair complexion flush with the consumption of the cheap wine. Willow was getting more and more animated in her stories. She was certainly good at chatting up with the men thought William. Both Henry and Jonathan appeared to hang on her every word.

AS Willow was gesturing with her hands she knocked Jonathan's drink over, spilling it into his lap.

"Oops" Willow offered, as she used her linen napkin to wipe Jonathan's pants.

Jonathan, gave a sly grin, "I think you missed a spot love a little to the left, ah that it"

William stood up, "Willow come on your completely legless, it time to call it a night"

She looked down and touched her legs. "No I'm not, mister spoil all the fun" she chided.

Jonathan chimed, "yeah lets have another round."

"Sod off mate", Willow's going to start work tomorrow, and a hangover not going to help, William lectured, taking Willow by the hand.

"No, I want to stay and play with my new friends Dad" Willow said pulling out of William's grip."

"Willow, let's go, I'll not have you make a fool of yerself, and me in front of my mates." He growled into her ear.

" Good night mates" she said " Mr. Pub monitor spulling the plug" She slurred slightly."

"Listen here macho man," she said placing her hands on her hips and swaying slightly " You can't make me."

William picked up Willow by the waist and slung her over is shoulder.

"EEEEP" she cried. Hey... I guess you can make me.

"Good night mates, Mr. Pub monitor spullling the plug" she slurred.

"William put me down this instant," she squealed.

He was near the top of the stairs, "I mean it ... I've live in Sunnydale, I know how to... handle monsters and demons" she threatened.

"Oh I'm shaking in my shaking in my boot Red, besides who's going ta make me?" He said mocking her, and kicked open the door to their room.

Willow did the only thing she could think of. She bit him, hard in the ass.

"Owe, you little witch," he said, grasping her about the waist, she struggled against him and ended up sliding down the front of his body.

William wasn't sure if he wanted to throttle her or ravish her.

Her hands rested on his chest, and his hands rested upon her ass. Willow had a devilish smile upon her face.

William decided to ravish her.

She felt like she was on fire... dizzy... she realized she was going to vomit. Oh no she moaned, pushing hard against William, accidentally hitting him in the nose, as he leaned down to kiss her. She staggered over to the basin on the vanity.

Willow heaved and heaved.

William wiped at his bloody nose. < I should have picked throttle. I don't know if I survive this lass, It like I'm on a run away train with no conductor.>

William helped Willow by cleaning up after she finished getting sick. He offered a cool cloth to wipe her sweaty face.

Willow looking paler than before mumbled "sleep" She went to the far side of the room behind the linen room divider and began to undress.

William stripped down to his y-fronts and crawled into bed.

"Oh no" he heard.

"What is it now Willow?"

She poked her head around the linen sheet, her body outlined in detailed shadow by the lantern. "I forgot to buy something to sleep in, could I borrow a shirt?"

< Sweet Jesus! > William got up, retrieved a semi-clean shirt, and handed it to her. His body was practically humming with sexual frustration.

"Thanks Will," she said her arm snaking out to retrieve it.

Willow could help but notice his um... you know. She also noted how the shirt smelled of him. She sighed slipped into her pallet and slipped into a drunken sleep.

William tossed and turned unable to get comfortable, listening to Willow's soft snores.

Willow awoke and moaned as her eyes opened to dazzling daylight. Willow flooded with shame,

Willow's mind told her to get up but her body was unwilling, she lay there reviewing the past 48 hours.

Willow slowly got up her head throbbing in time with her heartbeat. She noted William was gone to work. She knew from their conversation that all the men on the railroad worked between 8-12 hours per day. Thank You Goddess for small favors, she didn't know if she could have faced him first thing in the morning felling like this.

Willow practically yelped, when she heard a knock on the door. "It me luv, Mary can I come in, I've brought you some tea?

"Come in Mary," Willow managed to croak.

"Ye had a wee bit too much plunk last night child, oh my ye had most everyone in tears, seeing William carrying you like a sack of tatters." Mary laughed.

Mary noticed that Willow looked like she was about to cry. She hugged her, "There there, 'tis all right, no harm done."

"I've made a fool of myself and probably made William regret he ever laid eyes on me." Willow lamented.

"Don't be daft, William fancies you, I can tell" Mary added.

"Really?" Willow asked hopefully.

"I see the way you give each other sidelong glances, when you think the other's not looking. I could fire me stove up from the heat." Mary chuckled.

Willow smiled shyly, "Tell me about William?"

"Well, I've only know him a couple of months, he travels round a great deal to get rail work. He's a hard worker, polite, likes cards and ale and pays his debts. He's lived on his own since he was a lad ... he's a bastard....I hope you won't hold it against him. His ma's died when he was young, poor child; he's not really sure how old he is, since he doesn't recall a birthday. 'Tis a shame. He needs a nice young women to look after him." Mary winked

"William has been very nice to me ... but I've got a boyfriend at home, and I'm not really sure how long I'll be staying." Willow offered.

"Finish you're tea we've got work to do luv." Mary retreated downstairs

Mary explained the routine of the pub, and the kinds of tasks she wanted Willow to help with. "Remember when your serving ale, to mind your P's and Q's." Mary cautioned. "

"Mary, I won't be drinking any time soon, and I wouldn't dream of sticking my nose in where it doesn't belong. ." Willow replied.

"No, child your P's and Q's; your pints and quarts. When you pour ale into the stein watch how far you tip your elbow up. This far is a pint and this far is a quart" Mary demonstrated. "It's a half shilling for a pint and one shilling for a quart.

"Let's see you try".

The morning and afternoon passed quickly. Willow's back was already beginning to ache.

"Willow your slumping" Mary chided, your back will ache and you'll get a dowager's hump." Mary leaned closer to Willow, "I know you don't really need a corset but if ye was to wear one, it would help you keep your back strait not to mention improve your tips. I also think you should change out of your new dress, it's mighty pretty but it's too warm, and constricting. Besides you ruin it with ale and food. I've got some things that might fit you in a pinch. Mary told Randy she was going upstairs to help Willow. Willow removed her dress and went to get her new underclothing. She put on her cream chemise and black corset. Mary laced her up. "Oh I can't breath too tight" Willow panted. Mary loosened the stays a bit. " They'll stretch dear. She said. Mary handed Willow a light green peasant blouse. Since Willow was a lot smaller than Mary was the bodice hung lower than intended. Mary helped Willow adjust and tuck the blouse into her black skirt. "I don't know Mary," Willow said, looking down at her new and improved cleavage "I feel kinda naked," "Nonsense you're a picture with that beautiful hair and creamy skin, and the shirt makes your green eyes more striking." Mary added.

"I will give you a few tips on how to handle customers who get fresh" Mary explained as she and Willow returned to the pub.

As Willow worked she formulated a plan. Her first order of business was to find an apothecary and get some herbs to cure her hangover. She knew she would need other herbs and roots so she could make some decent toothpaste, shampoo and moisturizers, not to mention for spell casting.

As Mary predicted, the early afternoon was slow. She suggested that Willow could take several hours to relax. Willow used this time to run some errands. She returned several hours later with numerous herbs, tonics, and roots. Willow dropped them off to her room and resumed working. The pub started to fill up.

William had as usual laid the most rail. He was tired and cranky due to lack of sleep. He had to put up with endless teasing from his mate Henry about Willow.William vowed to himself to steer clear of the redheaded siren. He entered the pub and greeted Randy at the bar, " How's bout an ale." He asked. He didn't see Willow at first. He saw her come from the kitchen her arms laden with dishes. He took in her appearance and he almost choked on his ale. She was wearing her hair up again, accentuating her slender neck, her skin, way too much of her creamy skin was showing. For God's sake it looked like she might fall out of her blouse. She's wearing that bloody black corset. William swore under his breath."What's that mate?" Randy asked. "Nothing" he replied.

Willow caught sight of William, she smiled weakly and headed over to apologize for her behavior. Randy asked Willow to watch the bar a few minutes while he went into the cellar for another keg of ale. Willow met William's vivid blue eyes, "William, I want to apologize about... last night...I can't believe I made such an ass of myself."

William meet Willow's gaze and thought he would drown in her emerald pools. He dropped his gaze and watched her breast rise and fall ... and his face flushed...

" I'm sorry she continued".William tuned back in, met her gaze once more, "Forget it Pet, if you'll excuse me I'm going upstairs to clean up" he said draining his ale. William walked stiffly upstairs. He dragged the copper tub from the water closet, filled it with cold water, stripped and got in. As he washed up visions of Willow filled his mind. The cold water was not giving him any relief. William messaged his swollen member. Within moments, he climaxed groaning her name on his lips.

Willow felt William was still upset with her.

She noticed when William came back into the room. He was wearing a blue chambray shirt and dark twill pants. His hair was slightly tousled, and his cheeks were freshly shaved. Will eyes dropped and check out his nether cheeks.

Crash! Willow in her distracted state, tilted a tray, and lost two ale steins.

William turned around and saw Willow bending over to retrieve the items. The front of her blouse gaped, allowing everyone within visual range an eye full of her bountiful breasts, cream chemise, and black corset. Three men jumped up and headed towards her. William wasn't sure if they were trying to get a better look or were going to try and help. "Mother of God" he said tilting his head back. William saw Mary rush over shoo everyone away and whisper into Willow's ear. Willow's skin flushed beet red. William wondered how she could be so incredibly oblivious to her own beauty. Growing up in a whore house, William saw women wield power with their bodies, and men dominate those same women to try and prove they were more mighty. He watched as Mary sent Willow off to the kitchen. Mary approached William,

"Well, how are you today luv?"

"Fine, thank you Mary, and you?" he asked

"Very good, I was telling Randy how much Willow is helping, I was even able to rest and put my feet up for two hours, just like a bloody queen ," she laughed.

"I 've made shepherd's pie your favorite, would you like some for supper lad."

"Mary that sounds mouth watering"

"What will ye have for afters?" she asked. Mary couldn't help noticing that William looked in Willow's direction in response to her question. " I've made fresh apple pie, and it's a might tart just how you like it."

"Sounds wonderful," he said.

The pub bustled with activity. Willow found herself enjoying talking to the customers. Most of her customers were men, a few were couples. Most of the men flirted with her, and she enjoyed all the attention. Willow was friendly but was careful not to encourage anyone. Two men had asked her out, one had propositioned her. Although Willow missed her job as net girl if she ever got back to Sunnydale, she was going to try watressing

The evening passed slowly for William, he was exhausted but didn't want to go to bed. He wanted to be able to keep an eye on Willow, just in case anyone got out of line.

The evening passed quickly for Willow, it was 11:00 p.m. and Randy locked up after the last customer. William took this as his cue to go to bed. Willow offered to clean up the pub, and sent Mary and Randy off to bed.

Everyone said their good nights. William hit the bed and was fast asleep. He was awakened by a strange noise. He saw willow crawling around on her hands and knee picking up coins.

"I'm sorry William, too much change tore through my skirt pocket," she explained.

William's gaze was once again draw to her bodice, or what little there was off it.

" I guess it pays to advertise" he said sarcastically.

Willow snapped, " I worked very hard today, and I earned this money."

"That's what me mother used to say," he replied

"What exactly are you implying?" she said angrily.

"Nothing, I'm sorry Red, I'm just overtired" he responded.

Willow moved behind the linen divider and changed for bed. "Me too, I'm sorry I woke you. I can't imagine how tired and sore you must be after laying railroad track all day.... course that how you got all buff and firm" she babbled.

Oh God did I just say that out loud?"

"Yes, he laughed, but I don't know what exactly that means" William felt a flush of pride.

"William", Willow asked softly

"Yes Red"

"Tell me about your Mother."

"Not much to tell, she's dead."

"That's too bad, she never got to see what a fine man you turned out to be."

William got that warm and tranquil feeling again, his eyes misted with tears.

"Night Will"

"Night Will"

The next week and a half passed in similar fashion. William would leave before Willow awakened. She would work several hours in the pub, go to the library and do research the old fashion way. She listened to customers talk, and asked casual questions of anyone she thought might lead her to a Druid. Willow looked forward to night time best. She and William would talk back and forth in the dark.

Mary had gone to bed early with a headache, after drinking one of Willow's potions.

William was in his usual corner table playing cards with Henry and Jonathan. Willow was getting more aggreviated with one inebriated customer and his two equally obnoxious sidekicks. They were making crude remarks to her under their breaths and two had pinched her. Willow told them if they touched her again they were going to have to leave.

"And you'll be making us, I think I might like that," he said grabbing her ass.

Willow had had enough, she used one of the defensive moves Buffy had taught her and flipped the drunkard over onto his back. One of his friends made a grab for her and she stabbed him in the shoulder with a fork.

"You filthy Bitch!" he backhanded her, and she fell hard.

Next thing she knew William, Henry and Jonathan were across the room onto the three men. William asked if she was all right. The largest and uninjured man, swung at Jonathan and sent him flying over the next table. Willow scrambled up and saw the man she had tossed was choking Henry. "I'm fine ," she said picking up a serving tray and smashing it over the head of the man choking Henry. By this time Randy was rushing over trying to break it up. William was swearing and landed several punches on the biggest guy. The man caught William with a punch that propelled him back into the edge of the bar, slicing William just above his right eye. William was up in an instant with a bar stool in hand. He used it to crash over the mans head.

"That's enough, out, out" Randy shouted to the three bleeding men. Fight's over, are you hurt Willow ?" he asked.

"I'm fine... William ... You've got an awful cut" cried Willow.

"Just a scratch" he responded.

"Come upstairs, and I'll clean it out and bandage you up" she order taking his hand.

"Well, Henry, Jonathan, sportin s' over how about you call it a night?" Randy asked.

They both said their good-bye's to Willow and William as she lead him up the stairs.

"Be gentle with him lass," they laughed.

"Sit" Willow pointed to the bed. She gathered some supplies set them on a small nightstand next to the bed.

"Willow did that Bastard hurt you?" William said, moving his head up and down, side to side gazing at her with his one good eye. William's other hand was clutching a towel over his right eye to staunch the flow of blow.

"I'm fine, sit before you get blood all over" Willow moved between William legs to tend to his injury. Willow removed the towel, "Owe this must hurt." She gently washed the wound. William started to squirm. "I know it must hurt, I'm going to apply some salve it may sting a little but it will keep it from getting infected and act kinda sticky like to help close the wound. It's important that you don't move. I don't want to get any in you eye. Put you hand on my waist to steady yourself and you can squeeze me."

William moved his hand to her waist. He could feel the stays of her corset. She smelled of lavender and vanilla. His one good eye was feasting on the proximity of her breasts.

"Almost done," Willow said wrapping a bandage around his head to hold the dressing in place. "I'll need to change it in the morning before you go to work. A little lower and you would have lost you eye. As it is it will leave a nasty scar through your eyebrow."

William felt Willow's body shutter.

Willow felt fate's cold hand squeeze her heart. "No..." her legs shook.

"Willow, what is it are you hurt?" he asked pulling her onto his lap.

Willow stared at William with a far away look on her face. She envisioned a yellow eyed, blond haired demon looking out from William's face. "No it can't happen... I.."

"What is it?" William asked caressing her face.

Willow wrapped her arms around William's neck,

Willow let go and William noticed tears in her eyes.

"What is it? Kitten, "You can tell me" he said softly caressing her cheek.

"I don't want anything to happen to you," Willow sobbed. Hugging him again.

William caressed her back, and felt her soft breasts against his chest.

Willow caressed William's warm back. She felt his heart beating against her breasts.

Willow moved her hands up to his hair. She caressed his soft hair and whimpered.

William pulled Willow's head back and captured her mouth in a bruising kiss.

Willow pushed her tongue against Williams closed lips to seek entry.

He moaned and tasted Willows mouth with his tounge.

Willow's thoughts were obliterated, her breasts arched further into him, her nipples sought contact with his hard chest.

"God Willow" he gasped running his hands through her glorious hair. His lips sought her neck. He felt her shift her ass backwards sliding over his engorged penis.

Willow moaned as he licked her collarbone and ran his hand up to cover her breast.

He lowered his head and tasted between the valley between her breasts. Willow arched into his ministration, and rocked her hips back against his erection.

William pulled Willow back onto the bed and rolled her over onto her back his thigh between her legs. He kissed deeply, catching her soft mewls in his mouth.

"William, Willow are you all right ? " Mary knocked again.

William rolled off Willow, and swore.

Hearing the commotion in the pub, Mary came out to check, Randy explained about the brawl. Mary went to check on her tenants and heard the soft sounds of love making.

Mary knocked for the third time and called, "William, Willow." Mary thought William and Willow were a good match, but there would be no lovemaking under her roof unless they were married first.

Willow laid sprawled on the bed every nerve ending in her body throbbing, especially her lips, breast and core.

"Get the bloody door Willow, before Mary busts it down" William growled, walking towards the window his back to Willow.

Willow rolled off the bed on shaky legs, opened the door. "Hi Mary" Willow, was surprised her voice worked.

" Are you both all right, I heard the commotion, came out and Randy told me what happened? She asked.

" Fine, Fine, never better... William got a nasty ... I fixed him up." Willow babbled.

Mary looked across the room at William's back, "Since William's patched up, would you be a dear and help Randy clean up the mess downstairs?" she asked

"Sure thing," Willow replied.

Mary caught Willow's arm, "brush your hair dear and tuck in your blouse."

Willow blushed guilty; she quickly adjusted her clothing, combed through her hair with her fingers, and scurried out.

"William, look at me when I'm speaking. Don't think I don't know you're probably hard enough to hammer nails. Besides if I hadn't heard your moaning, Willow's tousled hair and swollen lips were a give away." Mary lectured. "I'll not have you ravishing that innocent girl"

" Don't get me wrong, I think you and Willow are a fine match, but you need to do right by her, Marry her first, and you can shag till your brains fall out."

"Marry her... look Mary, it was a mistake, over excitement of the fight, ... her overwrought with the blood s' all." He said turning.

"Keep telling yourself that lad, mind your manners... and I'm glad you're not hurt badly." Mary added, as she left.

William undressed and slid under the covers. He swore he could still smell Willow. William wanted to relieve his ache but didn't dare.

Willow stood outside the door, she had regained her composure quickly, as she focused on cleaning up the pub. Now she was a nervous wreak.

Willow entered into a dark room. William was in bed sleeping. Willow went from casual girl to disappointed girl.

Willow slipped out of her clothes and put on William's shirt. His scent created waves of throbbing undulations in her core. Willow crawled into her pallet, and tried to get comfortable. She wanted to touch her wetness but was afraid to wake William. She tossed and turned and fell into a restless sleep.

Willow dreamed William was kissing her and touching her core. They were in the abandoned factory. Spike entered and caught them making love. He vamped out and said it was his turn. William lifted his head and also turned into Spike. "No she's mine," he said as he sunk his fangs into her thigh.

"No... oh Spike... Please...." Willow, whimpered out loud.

William rolled over and put the pillow over his head.

The next morning William was gone when Willow woke. As she went about her day's activities, her thoughts kept drifting back to the previous night. Willow also tried to remember what she knew about Angel's changing William into Spike. Willow recalled it happened in London, and sometime before the turn of the century. She had no idea when. She knew his nickname was associated with his using railroad spikes for torture and was dubbed William the Bloody.

Willow told Mary her plan. Both women chatted about planning the menu and which of William's mates to invite. Willow checked her supplies for the ingredients for the protection spell. Willow decided she had everything she needed. Willow used her mid-afternoon break to go shopping for a crucifix. Willow bought the biggest crucifix she could find. Upon return Willow performed the protection spell, and carefully wrapped the gift hiding it among her other boxes and jars.

The pub filled up as usual; Willow kept her eyes peeled for William. It was after nine and still no William.

Mary saw Willow's eyes dart to the door ever time it opened.

"Don't worry child, William, when he works late sometimes stays at the railroad camp with the other men" Mary offered.

"You don't think something happen to him?" Willow asked worriedly

"I expect after last night he just needs a little space, luv" Mary whispered in Willow's ear.

Willow blushed, " I don't understand this space thing Mary. Do you? "

She patted Willow on the shoulder, " Men are such strange creatures but I couldn't live without me Randy."

Willow slept poorly again. During her restless night she concocted another plan.

Willow changed into her green cotton gown and pinned her hair up. She used a bit of color on her lips and cheeks.

Willow got directions to the camp from Randy and took a carriage. Willow approached the main tent area and saw men sprawled all over the ground. It took her a few minutes to locate William. He was talking to a very tall, very striking brunette. If Willow hadn't know better she would have sworn the women had breast implants. Zoewie she was huge, ...and HAD HER HANDS ON WILLIAM'S CHEST. SHE'S TOUCHING HIS NIPPLES.

Willow whirled around, her green eyes shooting sparks, she wasn't watching where she was going and tripped over a man sitting on the ground. She began to stumble, careened into another two men, picnic basket flying and landed hard across another man's lap as food rained down on the both of them. He let out a loud groan; men nearby laughed at the spectacle.

Henry watched Willow scan the crowd. He saw her body stiffen as she laid eyes on William and Grace talking. Henry swore he saw sparks fly from Willow, as she twirled and ran headlong into Simon, ricocheted off Edgar and Noel, arms flaying and food flying land upon Charlie. Henry dashed towards Willow to help her up.

William heard a load groan followed by laughter and cheers. He saw a flash of red hair.

William saw Henry wiping at a food covered Willow with familiarity. She had some sort of salad in her hair and blotches of what looked like chocolate over the front of her dress. She was apologizing profusely to a still groaning Charlie who lay in a fetal position, also covered with food.

"What happened Charlie? Hit by hurricane Willow?" William asked unable to control his laughter.

Willow glared at William and lied, "I came to have lunch with Henry ... and..."

"And me being such a clumsy sod, staring at Willow, I tripped her" Henry interrupted, brushing at the chocolate covered Willow.

William's mouth watered as he spied chocolate across Willow's left breast. He wanted to smack Henry's hands off Willow and lick the chocolate off her himself.

"Come on Lass, let's get some water to get you cleaned up proper." Henry said, leading Willow towards the water cistern.

Willow was mortified. "Thank you Henry" she stammered as tears smeared the blob of chocolate on her face.

He lifted Willow's face gently, " Darling, I'm going to give you a friendly kiss"

Willow's mouth dropped open to protest, but it was sealed by a soft kiss. "Henry... I..." Willow stammered. "It's for show lass, William is being a royal jackass." Henry answered.

Willow hugged Henry, 'You've been a good friend"

William wanted to throttle Henry. He turned around and stepped on Charlie's hand. " Sorry mate"

Willow had borrowed a cloak from Henry, to cover her ruined dress. As soon as Mary saw Willow's swollen eyes and long face, she knew something was wrong. "Mary it was awful, I.. I..." she began to cry again.

"Now , Now.. child, why don't you take the evening of... go crawl into bed and finish that novel you've been carrying about." Mary hugged Willow.

Mary was upon William as soon as he entered the pub. "What happened today?" she barked. "Willow's been crying all afternoon since she got back"

"Let me handle this Mary," he said taking the stairs two at a time.

He opened the door and walked behind the linen divider. William's breath caught in his throat. Willow's hair formed a halo round her head. She was sleeping in his shirt, the blankets were twisted round her body baring her from foot to thigh. Her eyes were puffy from crying. His heart wrenched wildly. He stood staring at her sleeping form. He wanted to lie beside her and take her in his arms.

William said he was going to be staying at the railroad yard for a few days since the entire crew was expected to work late, to make up for the half dozen men who had come down with dysentery. Mary told William she expected him at the pub Saturday night.

The next three days passed quickly. Willow was able to see the humor in her mishap at the railroad yard. She also had experience with seeing someone she cared about with another women.

Willow continued with her library research and continued to search local bookstores. Willow found a book with Druid spells and symbols. Willow decided to make a Druid charm to identify herself as a member of this secret society. Willow bought some coper wire and fashioned a bracelet in the Druid design. Willow felt like Mr. Spock in the episode:'The City on The Edge of Forever.'

Willow had started a journal documenting her research but found herself writing letters to the Scooby Gang detailing her life here. Willow still hoped that if she couldn't get home she could find some way to get the letters to her friends and family. She was sure they were beside themselves. She hoped the letters would give them some peace of mind. Willow put aside her journal, and went downstairs to help Mary and Randy prepare for William's party. Willow took at the wrapped crucifix

William was glad it was Saturday, He couldn't wait to sleep in tomorrow. He was also looking forward to seeing Willow. William was glad that Henry was stuck working along side him. Every time he imagined them together he thought he might heave.

Henry had noted William's cool contempt all week. William had confronted Henry on Wednesday morning accusing him of somehow upsetting Willow. Henry talked William out of throttling him.

Henry knew he had made the lad squirm enough. Besides he wanted to join the party tonight and didn't want William to be in a foul mood on his birthday.

"William wait up," Henry called.

"Listen mate, there's something I've got to tell you about Willow."

"What about her," William growled.

"The other day, Willow came here to have lunch with you. She saw Grace cozening up to you and fled in a snit, bowling over poor Charlie." Henry confessed.

"What" William's eyes narrowed. "I saw you both kissing"

"I was trying to help the lady save face." Henry explained.

William's face lit up, "she was jealous of me... me and Grace?"

"Don't look so smug Romeo, ' Mr. she's not my type'; you've been suffering from the green eyed monster yourself. You'd better wake up lad and stake your claim for somebody else does." Henry lectured.

William was dumbstruck when he entered the pub, and was serenaded by a rousing round of 'for he's a jolly good fellow.' Mary hugged him and wished him Happy Birthday.

"It's not my birthday" he said with a lump in his throat.

"Willow said it was, she planned the party and everything ... your not going to contradict the pretty lady are you lad?" Henry said slapping him on the back.

Randy, called first round on the house in honor of Will's birthday.

William gazed at Willow, she was wearing the green peasant blouse that set off her eyes. Willow smiled back and approached William and hugged him and wished him Happy Birthday. William's body reacted to her proximity, and was afraid he was going to embarrass himself. "Thanks Red," he whispered in her ear.

Willow was glad she had pleased William. It's time for cake and presents she announced pulling away. Mary and Randy gave William a new pair of black linen pants. His mates from the railroad presented him with a pocket watch. William felt he was hit with a bolt of lightening when Willow hand touched his as she handed him a small velvet pouch. William opened it and was suprised to find a crucifix on a silver chain. "It's lovely, Thank You " he said and reached forward to kiss her on the cheek.

Willow thought she would melt. Blessed Goddess please keep him safe.

Everybody that mattered surrounded William. He was celebrating his birthday. His mates were wishing him well. Mary and Randy were the closest thing to a family he had ever known.

Willow worked the crowd with ease.

She gazed at him, only to find him looking at her with those incredible blue eyes. His hand reached up to touch the crucifix, she had given him.

William felt intoxicated by her; she gave him a wistful smile.

William felt arms hug him from behind. He saw Willow's face blanch as he turned around and was kissed soundly by Grace.

"Happy Birthday Darling" she gushed.

"Grace, what are you doing here?" he asked surprised to see her here.

"Why I heard at camp it was yer birthday, I thought you might be up for a special present? she said rubbing her hand against his penis

"Grace", he gasped.

"I see how happy ye are to see me." She purred.

"No Grace... I mean... I .. It's nice to see you but.." he looked about the room for Willow. She was gone

"Look Grace, here some money buy yerself something nice... don't give any of it to Jake... I've got to go.. and so had you before Mary sees you."

"Henry, did you see where Willow went?"

"She took off out the door, when you were being groped by Grace" he replied

William dashed out the door,

William headed down Liberty Street and turned towards the canal. He saw Willow up ahead illuminated by the half moon.

"Willow, wait" he cried

Willow was shocked to here William's voice. She wiped away her tears and turned around.

"William, what are you doing out here missing your party?" she said with false sincerity.

"I came looking for you.. I ah... wanted to explain..." he stuttered

"There's nothing you need to explain to me." Willow said flatly, walking ahead.

"Yes", he said touching her arm. "Grace was a friend of my Mother's... She worked with my Mother.. if you know what I mean.." William looked down ashamed. "She works the camps... I give her money sometimes.. she was kind to me after my ma died.... I've never been her... er... customer" he said softly.

"Oh " Willow replied, trying to suppress a smile.

William looked into her shiny emerald eyes, his eyes dropped to her lips. He reached out and caressed her face softly. Willow's tongue licked her lips unconsciously. William bent down and kissed her softly. Willow sighed against his lips. William increased the pressure upon her soft lips as Willow wrapped her fingers in his hair. He pulled her body against his, feeling the results of the cool night air's effect upon Willow's breasts. William groaned and thrust his tongue into her sweet mouth. Willow body was aflame; she felt William's arousal against her stomach. She arched her breasts into his hard chest but loss contact with his groin. Willow dropped her hands and caught the globes of his ass in her hands, pulling him closer. William thought he might climax then and there. He moaned and dropped his hands from her hair to her nether cheeks, trying to meld their bodies into one. Willow gasped, breaking contact with his lips. She raised her self on tiptoes to lever her core closer to his straining erection, and licked his ear lobe. William knew, if they didn't stop he would take her here on the cold ground. He knew he wouldn't last long. Some sanity prevailed; Willow deserved better than that. He pulled away; saw her swollen lips, heaving breasts and almost said sanity be damned.

Willow didn't know what had come over her, Angel, how can she put my feelings into words>

Willow had lost herself in the song. She opened her eyes and looked into William's blue eyes shiny with tears. Willow felt her heart skip a beat. She smiled brightly and he rewarded her with a smile of her own. Willow played and sang for another hour.

Randy gave last call. Mary shooed the stragglers out.

"You sing beautifully, Red"

"Thank you Will" she replied looking shyly at the floor.

"Willow since tomorrow is Sunday, would you like to go on a picnic with me?"

"You bet color me picnic happy" she said practically jumping up and down

William's face lit up, "good".

Mary approached the couple, "Willow dear you must be buggered out, why don't you head to bed. I just need to talk to Will a minute."

"Night" she called

"How'd you enjoy your birthday lad?"

" One of the best days of my life Mary" he said hugging her, "thank you".

"I'm so glad to see with your increased age you've gotten some wisdom in yer head, Willow is a good woman; treat her right, and remember what I said about shagging in this house."

"Night Mary"

William knocked before he entered the room. " Can I come in Will?"

" All clear"

William noted her side of the room was dark and she had left the lantern lit on his side.

William stripped down to his y-pants.

Willow watched him strip. She admired his lean form outlined in shadow.

William crawled into bed. "Hey Will, how old am I?"

" Five and twenty" she replied huskily.

"How old are you Red?"

" Almost eighteen"

"When is your birthday?"

"In two weeks"

"Night Red"

"Night Will"

Willow slept better than she had in weeks, in fact she overslept. She noted by the sun it must be almost 9:00 a.m. She lay in bed and thought of William, kissing him, she knew it was more than just her teenage hormones. I get to spend the day with him. He likes me. He really likes me. OK Sally Field what are you going to ware on this picnic. She jumped out of bed and reviewed her meager wardrobe. What I wouldn't give for a pair of denim shorts and a tee shirt. I'd probably be arrested for indecent exposure. Willow went for comfort and deep sixed the corset. She wore her cream camisole and a white peasant blouse and a navy blue cotton skirt.

Willow went downstairs and followed the sound of voices into the kitchen.

"Whatcha doing?"

"Out" Mary and William said in unison

"Gee, you guys know how to make a girl feel wanted."

Willow chatted with Randy as he prepared for the day's business. Willow drank tea and wondered if she and William would share more kisses today.

Mary and William came out of the kitchen with a large wicker hamper. "I thought we were going for lunch, not the weekend." Willow teased.

Everything's all packed in here. Willow do you have a riding skirt? Mary asked

"No, you don't mean ride a horse kind of riding do you?" her eyes wide. .

"Come, I think I may have something." Willow came out thirty minutes later wearing a pair of boys' trousers.

Randy laughed, Those pants look like they belonged to Patrick as a lad."

Willow actually felt more comfortable than she had been in the long skirt. Mary dug her son Patrick's old pants.

"I can't believe our Patrick was ever that small, Mary" Randy chuckled.

"Ready Will" William asked.

" Can we talk about this horse thingy," she asked walking out the door.

"You don't ride"

"No"

"We'll take one horse then"

William balanced the hamper on his left hip, and reached out with his right to take Willow's hand, "Trust me"

They quickly walked the few blocks to a nearby livery stable.

William rented a chestnut mare, and secured the picnic hamper behind the saddle.

William mounted the horse with agile grace, and leaned over to give Willow a boost up.

Willow fit snuggly behind William and in front of the picnic hamper. William's body stirred with Willow's close proximity. Willow placed her hands on Will lean hips. William started off at a slow canter.

"How you doing Red?"

"Fine"

As they left the city limits, William announced, "I'm going to start her into a trot"

Willow wrapped her arms tightly around William's chest and rested her head against his shoulder.

Willow's breast rubbed against William's back with agonizing friction as the horse moved. William could feel Willow's hard nipples poke into his back. Willow was also experiencing incredible friction between her tight pants and William's ass. Willow bit her lips to keep from moaning, and gripped William tighter. Her hands clutching William chest discovering that his nipples were also tight pebbles.

William tried to think of anything to say, but needed to concentrate on remaining focused getting to the meadow, instead of stopping the damn horse and taking Willow by the side of the road. After fifteen agonizing minutes, William announced they were there. Willow was thinking of a way to give herself a few minutes to compose herself so she didn't start acting like nympho girl again. William was trying to think of a way to cool down before Willow noticed his raging erection. " Why don't you" they both said in unison. "Sorry" they both repeated together. They both laughed.

" Willow, why don't you slide down and I'll lower the basket and then walk the horse over to the nearby pasture and give her a rub down, while you set up the picnic."

"Good plan"

" Willow looked around the meadow admiring the view. The spot was surrounded by a glade of oak trees. A small brook sparkled and swirled off to the east. The elevation was such that Willow could see part of Leeds below. Willow opened the hamper and spread a wool blanket. She removed a bottle of wine, plates, and utensils.

William looked up as William approached, " It's so beautiful here"

"You like it then?"

"What's not to like."

William joined Willow on the blanket and helped her unpack the food.

"Oh strawberries, I haven't had any since leaving home... and cheese, bread... chicken ...cabbage salad."

"You and Mary packed enough food for an army " she teased

"Let's start with the fruit and cheese and then maybe take a walk over to the brook?" Willow suggested.

William poured the wine, and Willow fixed a plate with the berries and cheese.

Willow wanted to pinch herself, she couldn't believe she was having a romantic picnic with such a hottie.

"What are you smiling at Red?"

" This, she waved her arm, is like out of a novel".

" Do tell, What comes next?" he smiled.

Willow wanted to pinch herself, she couldn't believe she was having a romantic picnic with such a hottie.

"What are you smiling at Red?"

"This, she waved her arm, is like out of a novel."

"Do tell, What come next?" he smiled.

she thought slyly

She swallowed, " Actually, I've been rereading Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights. I found an original copy in a bookstore in Leeds. Do you know the story?"

"No can't say that I'm much of a reader." William shifted uncomfortably.

"Oh it's one of my all time favorites, It takes place on the Yorkshire Moors, I hope to be able to visit there while I here.. anyway .. The master of Wuthering Heights, Mr. Earnshaw brings home a young street urchin named Heathcliff. His wife is not happy and his older son Hindley is jealous but his youngest daughter Catherine and Heathcliff become inseparable friends. They spend their youth roaming the moors, playing together. As Cathy gets a bit older she is taken with the wealthy neighbors. The safe, but boring landowner fancies Cathy. She and Heathcliff fight their feelings of passion for one another. Heathcliff thinking he has nothing to offer Cathy leaves Wuthering Heights. Cathy is heartbroken and marries safe and boring landowner. Heathcliff comes back three years later a dashing man of the world. He is angry at Cathy for marrying boring guy, and Heathcliff is so hurt he flirts and them marries Isabelle; boring guy's sister to hurt Cathy and her husband. ... But their love is too strong to deny, they can't be separated ... so they have a passionate affair. Soon after Cathy gets sick and dies. Heathcliff is forever haunted by his love for Catherine and imagines her in the wind and rain that on the moors." Willow sighed.

William listened and admired Willow's animated discourse. He was mesmerized by her red hair blowing loose about her shoulders in the gentle breeze; and the way her eyes got shiny as she spoke of passion and love. His heart squeezed as she sighed.

"A sad story luv,"

"Mmmm. This strawberry is so good," she murmured.

William ate a berry, " your right so sweet and fresh."

Willow giggled, leaned over and wiped his chin with her finger," You've got juice on your chin silly."

William captured her hand and licked the juice off her finger "Let's not waste any"

Willow felt fireworks go off in her body, she flushed and pulled back her hand as if it touched something hot.

She lowered her eyes and sipped her wine.

She took a slice of cheese, and looked back at William. He was staring at her with passion filled eyes. Willow throat constricted she started to choke on the cheese.

William moved closer and started to pat her back. "You all right, Red." Willow blushed and rolled her eyes and took a sip of wine, "Better" she said, placing the wine down.

"Here you'll be safer with the strawberries," he suggested, lifting a berry to her lips.

Willow took a bite, her lips barely brushing his fingers.

"Good," she whispered, "another please," she asked huskily looking into his blue eyes.

William lifted another berry to her lips. This time Willow captured Williams two fingertips in her mouth and sucked them gently. Willow noted William's pupils dilated so rapidly, his blue iris's almost disappeared.

William froze.. thought he had bursts into flames. Willow reached up and pulled William's hand down and leaned towards him. He grasped her fingers between his own, leaning forward to capture this siren's lips with his own.

Their hands, lips and tongue's intertwined. He licked and sucked on Willow's lower lip. She moaned softly and moved her body closer seeking contact with his. They uncoupled their hands and reached for one another. Her hands running over his hard chest. His nipples peppled under her restless fingers. William ran his hands up to cup the underside of Willow's breasts. His thumbs splayed over her erect nipples. She arched closer for more contact. William she gasped. He pulled her closer, her hands shift around to his well muscled back. His lips moved to her ear, he whisper, " you taste so good, I want to devour you" Her fingers clenched against his back, her whole body shook at the thought. Willow felt her core melting, she was so wet. Willow stuck her tongue in William's ear, bit his lobe and whimpered "yes"

He hissed and squeezed her breasts between his hands, his lips licking a trail from her neck to her collar bone. He dipped his tongue in the hollow of her color bone his unshaven cheeks scraping the sensitive skin of her neck.

Willow wanted skin she pulled at his shirt tail and snaked her hands up his hard back. William continued to caress Willow nipples through her blouse. He wanted to taste them, see if they were as sweet as the rest of her. He lowered his head, his lips moved between the valley of her breasts. Willow hissed and moaned. William used his hands to push the top of Willow's blouse and chemise down from her breasts. His eyes feasted on their perfection. He wanted to smell her skin. He brushed his angular cheeks over both her breasts. His stubble caused tortuous sensations of pleasure to shoot through Willow. Her world dropped out from under her, as he licked first one nipple and then the other. He took one into his mouth and sucked greedily. Oh My God She Shouted. Willow's brain had difficulty reaching through her passion dazed state. " Wait" she panted trying to pull away from his glorious mouth. He raised his eyes to hers his mouth inches away from her breast. " I... I... please... slow down.., " she wanted to snatch the words back as soon as they fell from her mouth. His eyes blinked, aglow with passion and he raised his head.

" I.. I... want to.. but ... we need to slow down...

William reached forward again and pulled up Willow's blouse, pulled her into his embrace..." I'm sorry luv, I lost control of myself... I."

"Oh William, she hugged him tightly, I want to so much. I never have and I want to with you but..."

"I know Red," he said huskily petting her head. "How bought you and I cool off with a stroll in the brook?"

William helped Willow rise, took her hand and moved toward the water.

William and Willow headed towards the brook. Willow looked at the handsome man holding her hand her heart ached. Willow wanted to throw her arms about William's neck and shower him with kisses.

"Willow did you hear me?"

"What"?

"Shall we take off our shoes and wade, I warn you the water's ice cold" He asked?

"Last one in's a toad stone" she chanted, kicking off her shoes and hiking up her cuffs.

"Yeoweee, It so cold" she shrilled.

William looked at Willow frolicking in the water. He made up his mind. He knew what he was going to do. He wasn't going to be stupid like that Wanker, Heathcliff.

Willow had waded upstream. William yelped as he stepped into the icy cold water. He heard Willow scream, and his heart stopped beating. He took off towards her. She was standing out of the water balanced on a large stone.

"William's heart started beating when he saw she was all right. "What"? He said.

"T..T..T Tadpoles ewoweeee.. " she pointed

William started to laugh, and grabbed his sides, " Your not afraid of a few baby frogs are ye? he snickered.

"Don't just stand there be my knight, get your butt over here and help me" she demanded her arms outstretched.

"Stop laughing"

William scooped her into his arms, " You'll have to do my bidding, else I'll sick the frogs upon ye" he teased

"Not if you value your life, mister" she threatened.

William carried her back to the blanket. Willow kissed his cheek softly. "Thanks for being my hero."

"I've worked up an appetite with the grand rescue" he teased.

William and Willow finished the lunch, chatting and teasing one another.

"I hope I'm not boring you," Willow replied in response to William's yawn.

"No, I''m a might played out with the party and all" he responded.

"Come, it's nap time Will, lay your head on my lap, and I'll read a bit more of my story Wuthering Heights to you" she offered.

William crawled closer and rested his head on her soft thigh. Willow leaned back against the large oak tree and began reading. She placed her other hand upon his brow and petted his head gently. William heart was overflowing with warmth and tranquility. her> He drifted off into peaceful sleep listening to his beloved.

Willow, dozed herself, and woke up slightly chilled. "Will" she said softly, "Wake up, we should be going" They packed up the remnants of their picnic and rode the mare towards Leeds and the blazing sunset.

William explained to Willow that he had the opportunity to work more hours on the railroad since many men were still sick. He said he would be staying at tent city, and would be home next Saturday. He asked if she could come by sometime during the week to have lunch with him. Willow said she would. She was finally understanding the male concept of space. She new she could take advantage of this time to continue her research and figure out what to do about her feelings for Will.

Willow wrote a long letter to Buffy in her journal, telling her about William and what a wonderful time she had with him. She shared a few intimate details about their smooches, and laughed at her self when she told about her misadventures while drunk and at the train yard. She wished everyone her love and told them how much she missed them.

On Monday she went back to one of her favorite bookstore, to see if any new books had arrived from London. The clerk a man who made her think what Giles might be like at sixty, named Fisk was always glad to see her and invited her for tea.

While chatting with Fisk, he commented on her unusual copper bracelet. Willow asked, 'Have you seen anything like this before?" '"Yes, Miss, A dark haired man comes in once a month, looking for old texts like you," he answered.

"What's his name.. I mean ... I need to meet him.." Willow practically bounced out of the chair.

"Next time you see him Fisk, you must tell him about me. Tell him about the bracelet and that I'm a long lost relative and where he can find me at the Pub, Promise" she pleaded.

"Of course, dear"

Willow's luck seemed to be changing for the next day in the Leeds Public Library, she finally made the connection she was looking for in locating the Watchers council in London. She had been reading any articles, and reports on strange phenomena and found the same name listed three times over a period of nine months. A Mr. Marcus Giles who worked at an art museum. This had to be a member of the council, It was probably Giles great grandfather or Great uncle or something. Giles, her Giles said Watchers had come from his family line for many hundreds of years. Willow composed a short letter to Mr. Marcus Giles:

Dear Mr. Guiles.

I am introducing myself to you as a friend of your Family. My name is Willow Rosenberg. I am currently in Leeds. I am in a spot of trouble. I am aware of the slayer-watcher destiny and would like if you could help me. Please write or telegraph me as soon as possible and I will come to London to see you.

Sincerely Yours,

Willow

Willow posted the letter and felt more hopeful than she had since coming here.

On Friday evening a tall, dark hair men came into the pub. Willow waited on him and he asked are you a brethren? Willow almost dropped her tray of drinks. She sat down and felt goosebumps and the hair on her arms standing up. This man had powerful magic. Willow said, she really needed his help. She explained she was a Wicca, kind of related to his Druid sect, and desperately needed his help. She new Mary was watching her and knew she couldn't talk freely with all the distractions of the pub. Willow made an agreement to meet Aaron by the canal on Liberty Street on Saturday at 9:00 a.m.

Willow had difficult sleeping that night, she thought back to the three days she had visited William at the train yard. He looked very tired. They had not had any time alone in a week. Willow thought about him constantly and missed him terribly.

The next day she meet Aaron and explained her situation about her being a witch from the future, the spell gone wrong, the lost locket and inquired as if there was any way he could help her. Aaron explained that she had performed a powerful spell, and he was puzzled how it could have gone wrong. Aaron explained that if the spell was done incorrectly as Willow said than nothing should have happened. Aaron couldn't explain the locket's disappearance either. He did tell Willow that it may be possible for her to return back to her own time. He explained that during Beltane powerful Druid rituals are performed at Stonehenge. At this time the doorway between time is more fluid. He thought Willow repeating the spell with the druid's assisting with their powers she could return to her own time. Willow asked if someone from this time could go with her? Aaron didn't believe this was possible. He believed that time is kind of like elastic and that Willow's belonging in her time she should snap back like a band, but that someone in this time would most likely be anchored here. Aaron was impressed with Willow's power to be able to perform the original spell. Aaron commented that for the original spell to work some primal forces were at work in addition to the magic. Aaron said that Willow's love for her friend Angel must be strong as it had pulled her through time. He said that Willow's love for her friends in Sunnydale should be powerful enough for her to snap back through time. Beltane, June 21st was in three weeks, Aaron agreed to meet Willow at the Pub the Thursday before and they would travel to Stonehenge together. Willow thanked Aaron and returned to the pub.

Willow was happy to see William that night, she longed to tell him, she knew she was going to have to explain that she was going home. Willow wished he could come, wished she could stay.. She felt like crying.

"Hey, what's with the sad face, Red?"

"Nothing, I just miss you" she said embracing him.

"What would you like to do tonight, Pet?"

"Lets just go to the canal and watch the stars and be together"

Willow put off telling William, she wanted to enjoy every moment they had left together. They sat by the water holding hands and talking softly. William kissed Willow gently, he was careful not to get to amorous. He said that next Saturday her birthday he was going to take her on a suprise trip. Willow cajoled William to try and whittle information as to the location. He would only say that it was to be a day trip and they would travel by train.

William went into Dysen's jewerly store to buy a gift for Willow. He was looking at several items, but he knew what to buy the moment he layed eyes upon it. He asked the jeweler to engrave it: Love always W. He new she would like it.

William was happy to see Willow every day for lunch. She seemed a bit melancholy, he new the weeked trip would cheer her up. Willow decided she was going to tell William on Saturday, after all she had only one more week after that and she would be leaving.

Saturday morning Willow was up at five a.m. William was waiting in the pub as was Mary and Randy. Mary cooed, "It's to be a lovely day, Happy Birthday lass" Mary said hugging and kissing Willow. Randy also wished Willow well and hugged her. Mary and Randy had bought Willow a pretty new dress. "I thought you might like to wear it today" Mary replied. William kissed Willow, "Tell me where we're going Please" she begged.

"Go and change and we're off to the train. When they got to the train station William bought two round trip tickets on the Keighley & Worth Valley line to Haworth.

"Oh", Willow squealed, The Bronte's moors like in Wuthering Heights. She hugges William tightly. William loaded the picnic hamper upon the train and reached into his pocket for the tenth time to feel the velvet bag with Willow's present.

The train ride lasted two hours, Willow babbled the entire way. They left Haworth station and William rented a wagon. William was so happy that Willow was enjoying herself. She pointed and oohed and awed with such joy. She wanted to stop and walk around. She ran across the field yelling Heathcliff at the top of her lungs, making William laugh out loud. He began to chase after her. She ran and climed upon some large eskers.

"I feel like I'm on top of the world" she explaimed

She giggled.

"Me too Red, me too"

"Did you bring any more strawberries in that hamper" Willow asked coyly.

"As a matter of fact I did, and champange too."

"Mmmm.. lets have some, she said climing down. William spread the blanket and stopped Willow before she opened the basket.

"Willow," he squeaked

He cleared his throat, " Willow, It being your birthday I wanted to tell you.. I wanted to say... I wanted to ask..."

She looked at him with those georgeous eyes.

He reached into his pocket and took out the velvet shrouded gift.

"Willow, I've never met anyone like you, you have made me happier than I ever thought possible. I love you with all my heart and soul, and I want to give you this token of my love." he said handing her the gift.

Willow's eyes shed tears

Willow opened the gift. Her heart stopped, it was THE LOCKET, all shiny and new

She opened it up and saw room for a picture and an inscription love always W.

Willow was sobbing openly, " William, Oh William it's so beautiful... I love you too William. She hugged him and he kissed her his heart overflowing with joy. " Willow, would you be my wife?"

Sweet handsome Will LOVES... DID HE JUST ASK ME TO.MARRY HIM>Willow couldn't stop the tears, " What did you say?" she asked.

William, caressed Willow's tears, " No won has every made me feel this way. I love you with all my heart and soul.... Will you be my wife, Red?"

Willow felt like her lungs had collapsed, she sucked in air, and almost began to hyperventilate.

"Oh William, I love you more than I thought possible, I will love you forever.. YES YES YES" she cried hugging him tightly.

William began to cry as he held Willow. She felt his tears on her neck. She pulled back, looked lovingly into his eyes and caressed his face running her hands over the planes and angles of his cheekbones. Her thumb brushed his lower lip. His gaze burned into Willow's soul. He leaned forward and placed a butterfly kiss upon her lips. His tongue playfully touched the corner of her lips. Willow opened her mouth in invitation. He sucked and pulled on her bottom lip. He wound his hands through her hair, pulling her closer to him, closer his tongue danced with hers, tasting her. Willow's hands pulled at William's shirt she wanted to touch his skin. She needed to. Her hands shook, please, she whispered. He pulled back and helped her. Her hands roved over his muscled pectorals, his nipples tightened into small pebbles. She dipped her head and ran her tongue over one. William grasped her head between his hands and groaned her name. She moved to the other and nuzzled it with her teeth. He hissed and yanked her head back to his mouth needed to taste her. His whole body throbbed in need for this woman. He kissed her neck; felt her warm hands kneed his bare back. He pulled her down onto the blanket, spreading her legs with his knee. He captured her moan as his erect shaft rubbed against her. Her fingers scraped along his back and her hips arched into him. He lowered his head, to her breasts kissing them through the material of her gown. Please she whimpered and arched her hips into his groin. He tugged at her bodice, lowering her dress and chemise and gazed at her beautiful breasts molded by her black corset. He dipped his head and began bathing first one and then the other with his tongue. Her rosy buds pucker and tightened as he scrapped his teeth upon them. Willow body was flooded with unbearable sensation, yet her body craved more. Her hands clawed at Williams's ass trying to bring him closer, grinding her center against his shaft. William moaned as her grinding against him caused his already straining erection to convulse and signal the fast approaching point of no return. He pulled back slightly to break contact from her hips and rolled onto his side. She whimpered her displeasure, Will... "We need to slow down Will, I'm about to come undone," he said huskily pulling her against his side and nuzzling her neck. She stroked his chest and felt his heart racing. She felt a flush of pride that he desired her so. She was amazed at herself; she had no inhibitions with him. She felt like a Goddess.

"It's OK, I want you Will, I want you so much," she said kissing his chest. " I gathered that Red, but I want us to wait until we're married." " Now she said running her hand down his muscled stomach towards his penis." He caught her hand, "Next Saturday, we'll get married" "Next Saturday," she said sitting up. Reality of the situation burst like a damn upon Willow's ardor.

Willow sat up. " I can't get married on Saturday"

"Why not, Pet?"

Willow adjusted her dress. " My friends and family won't be there." She said sadly and started to cry.

William sat up, "Darling, after we're married we can go back to America if you want"

" I need to think about this Will."

"Your not changing your mind are you?" he looked hurt.

Willow looked into his eyes and new she couldn't leave him. " No oh no, I love you William, I'll never leave" she exclaimed hugging him fiercely. " My life is here with you now," she said wiping her tears, resolve face in place.

"Please help me with my locket," she said turning.

William placed it on her, kissing her neck, and wrapped his arms around her resting his chin on her shoulder. " You have made me the happiest man alive"

"I have been waiting my whole life for you Red, I don't want to wait a minute longer, but if you need more time..."

"No Saturday the 21st of June it is" she replied.

William uncorked the champagne, and Willow squealed in delight.

"To my beautiful red-headed siren, I shall heed your call of love until the end of time."

Willow touched her locket, leaned over and kissed him lightly.

"William may you feel my love surround you in the wind's caress, the sun's warmth, and moon's shadow."

William and Willow spent the rest of the afternoon, exploring the moors, making wedding plans, and planning their future together.

Willow and William passed a quaint inn, on the way back to the train. They talked to the innkeeper and arranged to return next Saturday to spend their Honeymoon near the moors.

Willow fell asleep on the train ride back to Leeds her head resting on William's shoulder. Willow dreamed it was her wedding day. Giles was walking her down the isle. Buffy was her maid of honor and Xander was the best man. She was so happy. As the minister announced them man and wife, William lifted her vale. Spike's vampire façade grinned; I've been waiting all my life for this Pet and bit her neck draining her of blood. Willow woke with a start, her heart beating rapidly.

"Bad dream Kitten, William said taking her hand."

" William, promise me you'll always wear your crucifix no matter what and never ever go to London" she implored.

"Willow, what's upset you so, the dream?" he asked gently

"Promise on my life?" she said squeezing his hand.

"Darling he said kissing her brow, " It's just a bad dream, of course, It will remain near my heart,

And I've been to London, overcrowded and smelly luv, I've no desire to return. You are my passion"

He replied kissing away her fears.

" William, instead of rings lets use the locket and crucifix as symbols of our love. Necklaces have the same power of rings to bind and. the locket means so much to me and I want you to always wear the crucifix" She asked.

"Of course, if that's what you want. I was going to buy a ring." William said.

"No, this is so much more special, and we won't take them off until the morning of the ceremony

and will give them to Mary and Henry to give to us so we can exchange them again" she said excitedly.

" I can't refuse you, don't get the wrong idea, you haven't got me wrapped around your tiny fingers yet." He teased.

Mary and Randy were thrilled with the news. Mary dragged Willow into her quarters to help plan the wedding. Randy poured Will a drink and congratulated him. "She a fine lass, son and I hope you 'll be as happy as Mary and me.

Willow was worried about a wedding dress, but Mary said she had a good friend who was a dressmaker and that she herself was a good seamstress, and between the two she would have a fine dress. Willow decided she wanted wildflowers for a bouquet. She explained that she wanted flowers that reminded her of the moors. Willow and Mary planned the wedding dinner.

"Where shall you be married dear?" Mary asked. " New Hill Chapel, the gothic looking, Unitarian church." Willow knew the Unitarians were accepting of persons from different backgrounds.

"Oh Mary, did you know Joseph's Priestly, the man who discovered oxygen used to be minister there?"

"Is that so lass

"But he's dead now... such history" she babbled

Willow asked Mary to be her Matron of honor and Randy to give her away. William asked Henry to be his best man. Pub regulars were invited to the service, as were friends of William's on the railroad.

William decided it would be best if he stayed at the railroad camp and worked. He was sure his boss would give him the following week off. William promised Willow that she would never sleep alone again once they were married.

Mary and Willow arrived at the dress shop as it opened on Monday. Alice, was pleasant and reassuring that a wedding dress could be made. She measured Willow and inquired about the type of dress Willow wanted. Willow's dress was to be made from white silk, with a scooped neckline and tiny pearl buttons down the back. She was to have a small bustle and a very modest train. By noon Alice and Mary were cutting the fabric. The dressmaker knew of a cobbler that sold fancy shoes. Willow went to look at shoes while Mary and Alice continued to sew. Willow went to John Beer's store to buy a new corset and looked for something sexy to wear on her wedding night and honeymoon. Willow picked out an ecru peignoir set. Willow blushed as she felt her own arousal just thinking about making love with William. She also spied a dark green satin camisole set. Willow purchased a pair of riding pants and two new blouses. She thought horseback riding on the moors was a definite on her honeymoon.

Willow received a letter from Mr. Giles offering to help her in any way he could. He told Willow the watcher's council headquarters in London. Willow decided she would write letters to her friends and family back home after her honeymoon explaining her decision to stay and she would enclose a photograph of her and William from their wedding. She would send her journals and letters to Mr. Giles and have the watcher's council keep them and have them delivered to Giles several days after she had come here. Willow decided to be explicit in her instruction for the counsel keeping the letters and their being delivered after she left Sunnydale. Knowing Guile's he would try and prevent her performing the spell that landed her here. Willow felt this was fate. I was meant to be here, meant to love this man. . ~~~~~~~~

The week flew by in a blur. Willow missed William terribly; she had not scene him since Wednesday. He was to meet them at the church and the wedding was to begin at 11:00 a.m. She was not to see him until she walked down the isle.

Mary was helping Willow into her Wedding dress. She had kept a look out for William and allowed Willow to peak at the church decorated with candles, and wildflowers. Randy was helping William dress. Randy told her he had to shave the poor boy because William's hands were shaking so badly he thought he might cut himself.

The couple had chosen Pachelbel's Cannon in D Major to be played as Willow walked down the isle.

Henry came and asked Willow is she was ready. He kissed her cheek and said he had never seen a prettier bride. Willow asked about William. "I've got him tied up, since he been chopping at the bit to see you" he teased. " I'll signal the organist and meet you at the end of the isle." He said.

Willow heard the music start.

Mary hugged Willow and was escorted down the isle by Jonathan. Randy hugged Willow, "Are you ready lass?"

"Oh yes," she replied her eyes sparkling.

Willow entered the church her eyes locked with William.

His eyes filled with tears.

Willow only saw William.

Randy gave Willow's hand to William and stepped aside. Willow and William eyes never leaving the other.

The minister began by welcoming the guest to witness this union. He explained that Willow and William had written their own vows.

The minister began, "William Ashton do you take Willow Ann Rosenberg to be your lawful wedded wife?"

"I do" he replied and smiled at her squeezing her hand.

"What have you to say to your bride?" he asked

William began:

I love you,

Not only for what you are, But for what I am, when I am with you.

I love you,

Not only for what you have made of yourself, but for what you are making of me.

I love you

For the part of me that you bring out;

I love you

For putting your hand, Into my heaped-up heart and passing over All the foolish, weak things

That you can't help dimly seeing there, And for drawing out, Into the light,

All the beautiful belongings

That no one else had looked

Quite far enough to find

I love you because you

Are helping me to make the lumber of my life Not a tavern, but a temple;

Out of the works of my every day

Not a reproach, but a song

I love you because you have done

More than any creed, could have done

To make me good, And more than any fate Could have done, To make me happy

You have done it

Without a touch

Without a word

Without a sign

You have done it, by being yourself.

Perhaps that is what being a friend means After all.

I will love you forever; he ended kissing her hand.

"Willow, do you take this man to be your lawful husband?"

" I do", she replied

"What have you to say:"

Willow began:

Come my darling one, closer up against me, Creep right up, with your head pushed in my breast.

How I love all of you! Do you feel me wrap you up with myself and my warmth, like a flame round the wick?

And how I am not at all, except a flame that mounts off you. Where I touch you, I flame into being-but is it me, or you? That head pushed in my chest, like a nut is a socket, And I the swift bracts that sheath it, your chest, your thighs, your knees,

Those shoulders so warm and strong: I feel that I am sunlight upon them that shines into being.

I feel that we are a bonfire of oneness, me flame flung round you, You the core of the fire, crept into me,

And oh, my darling, you whom I enfold, How quaveringly I depend on you, to keep me alive Like a flame on a wick!

I the women who enfolds you and holds you close, How my soul cleaves to your chest as I clasp you, The very quick of my being. I now am full and strong and certain with you firm at the core of me, keeping me

How sure I feel, how warm and strong and happy, for the future! How sure the future is within me, I am like a seed with a perfect flower enclosed.

I wonder what it will be,

What will come forth of us?

What flower, my love

No matter, I am happy,

I feel like a firm, rich healthy root,

Rejoicing in what is to come

And thinking, there will something come forth from us, we two folded together There will something come forth from us. Children, acts, utterance,

Perhaps only happiness

And you will always be with me. I shall never cease to be filled with newness, having you near me.

Tears spilled from William's eyes. The minister asked, " What tokens of love do you give one another?"

Henry handed William the locket.

William slipped it round her neck, and replied. " I give this locket as a token of my love, it shall forever remain unbroken."

Willow took the crucifix from Mary, and placed it round William's neck. " I give this token as a token of my love, it shall remain forever unbroken."

"I minister in Yorkshire County, city of Leeds am empowered to pronounce you man and wife. What God has brought together let no man put asunder. You may kiss your bride."

William lifted Willow's vale, her eyes glistening like diamonds, and he caressed her face and kissed her lips gently. He was whole, complete, he was home.

| Continue... |

| Return to Fiction Index | Return to Main |