__The Concert__
By Andrea
"What am I going to wear?"Willow shrieked. She was
searching through her closet, whipping through her
hangers like a mad woman.
Tonight was the concert. She was going to the Eric
Clapton concert with Giles. And she wanted to look
nice for him. And she didn't want to reason why.
"Where is my red shirt?"she muttered, sorting through
the clothes at the bottom of the closet.
"Willow, calm down. Everything will be fine."Ivy
reassured her."How about your purple bustier?"
"Bustier? Don't you think that's a
little..uhh...risque for a concert?"
Ivy rolled her eyes."Willow, make up your mind. I
thought you wanted to give Giles an eyeful."Willow
turned to her in shock.
"What do you mean? I'm dating Oz."she said, trying to
sound innocent.
Ivy smirked."Next time,try to say that with more
conviciton, okay?"She sat on the bed."Willow, admit
it. You like Giles. This is your chance."
"You think?"she said hopefully.She remembered what she
just said and shook her head."No, wait! What am I
saying? We're friends. Just two friends going out.
That's all."
"Right. I usually go crazy when I go out with my
friends."Ivy laughed."Willow, you're too funny."
"Funny?"
"Yes. The way you keep deluding yourself into thinking
that there is nothing more than friendship between
you and Giles. You want Giles. Plain and simple."
"It's not simple"Willow whispered."Besides, what makes
you think I want him?"she said a little haughtily.
"First of all, it is simple. I know you're dating Oz
but you're not bound to him. Feelings change. People
change. You can't stop it evn if you wanted to. And I
don't think you want to."Willow looked at her in
surprise."Second, how do I know you want him? Hmmmm,
let's see.. Well, you talk about him more than anyone
else. Most of the pictures you have up have Giles in
them. You have more pictures of you and Giles together
than you and Oz. You spend alot of your free time with
him studying magick. Third, if this is just a
friendship date, then why are you getting all dolled
up?"
Willow sat on her bed."Alright. You want me to say it.
I'll say it. I want Giles. I'm in love with Giles.
You're right."Ivy smiled."The reason I didn't want to
acknowledge my feelings is because I don't want to
hurt Oz. Again. I told you about Xander and what
happened last year, right?"Ivy nodded. "Well, I really
hurt Oz that time and I don't want to hurt him again."
"You'll hurt him more if you're not honest with him.
You'll be staying together for all the wrong reasons.
It isn't fair to you or to him. Him because you'll be
stringing him along. And you because you'll be
miserable."Willow looked at her thoughtfully."Look.
Don't get me wrong. I like Oz. I do. But, it seems to
me that you love Giles more." she stood and went to
her desk. As she sat down, she turned to Willow,
"Besides, Giles has that sexy accent. How cool is
that?"
Willow started to laugh and soon Ivy joined in. When
they finally got control of themselves, Ivy asked"What
time is he picking you up?"
"Six. What time is it now?"
She looked at the clock."Five fifteen."
Willow jumped up"Oh God. I only have 45 minutes. And I
still have to do my makeup."she exclaimed as she ran
to the bathroom.
***********************************************
Giles hummed to himself as he got out of the shower
and toweled himself dry. He put his robe on and walked
into the bedroom. Standing in front of his closet, he
pondered what to wear.
Tonight was his date with Willow. And he wanted to
dress special for her. Something that she wouldn't
expect him to wear. And he didn't want to analyze why.
Flipping through his clothes, he let his mind wander
to Willow. She was an amazing woman. Aside from being
incredibly beautiful, she was intelligent and
possessed a maturity beyond her years. She was
thoughtful, charming and innocent yet he suspected,
possessed a hidden passion that was just aching to be
let out. And if he was honest with himself, he wanted
to be the one to let that passion out.
He knew it was wrong. He knew that there was a
significant number of years between them. He knew she
was Buffy's best friend. He knew she was dating Oz.
And he bloody well didn't care.
He was in love with her. Had been for a long, long
time now and this was his chance to tell her, to show
her. And he wasn't about to pass it up .
"AHA! Just what I was looking for"he exclaimed. He
took the clothing off the hanger and walked back to
the main part of the bedroom. He checked the clock.
5:15
'I'd better hurry' he thought.
*********************************************
"Okay. How do I look?"Willow asked, spinning around.
She had on a burgendy paisley top with cap sleeves
that were slightly off the shoulder. Her black skirt
rested a little past mid-thigh and on her feet, she
wore Chinese black ballet shoes. Her hair was pulled
back casually with a few long wisps framing her face.
She had on more makeup than usual. Usual being only
lipgloss, but tonight, she had on the works. Blush,
eyeshadow, mascara and extra eyeliner that made her
emerald eyes even bigger.
"Great. You're gonna knock his socks off."Ivy remarked
and went to the window. She peered out."What kind of
car does he drive again? I think he's here."
"A Citroen. Whitish gray. Kinda of old looking."she
stated as she packed her purse.
"It's him allright. Remind him, to get a new car."Ivy
leaned out farther."Oh MY GOD! Is that leather I see?"
Willow came over."What?"
Ivy pointed."See, it looks like he's wearing leather
pants."Willow's jaw dropped."If I didn't give you a
good reason for dating Giles before. I have one now.
Two words. Leather pants."
The phone rang and Willow went to answer it."Hello?"
"Willow, it's me."Giles spoke"I'm downstairs, outside
the dorm. And I can't get in."
"Oh! I forgot to tell you. Just press the button near
the phone and the doors will open."
"Allright. See you soon!"he hung up.
"He's coming up."Willow said nervously and went to the
mirror to check herself.
"Relax. You look fine. Now, remember, don't think
about anyhting else. Only Giles." A knock came on the
door."He's here."
Willow stood up and Ivy went to answer the door. She
peered out the peephole and opened the door."Hi
Giles."
"Hello, Ivy. I'm here to pick up Willow."
"Sure. Come on in."she motioned with her hand and
stepped back to let him in. He stepped inside and all
Ivy and Willow could do was stare.
He was handsome. He had on a tight white shirt that
accented his firm chest and he had on one of those
past the waist leather coats on, but that wasn't what
was eye catching. It was the tight, black leather
pants he wore that fitted him nicely. They showed off
his strong muscular legs and even firmer behind. On
his feet he wore a pair of black Doc Martens boots.
That wasn't the only thing that was different. His
hair was combed so that it was spiky and he also had
no glasses on, and a silver hoop earring inhis left
ear. He looked incredible.
At the same time, Giles was getting an eyeful of
Willow as well. She looked ravishing. His eyes slowly
traveled up and down her body, taking her all in. the
short skirt highlighted her long legs and the fitted
top showcased her firm breasts. He felt his body start
to respond and he shifted to hide it.
"Willow, you look beautiful." She blushed.
"Thank you. So do you. I mean, you look incredible."
He smiled sexily."Thank you."he extended his hand."Are
you ready to go?"
She nodded and took his hand.
"Wait!"Ivy ran to her desk and picked up her
camera."Let me get a picture of the two of you."
Giles smiled and pulled Willow closer to him. He
wrapped his arm tightly around her waist and she did
the same. They both smiled brightly as the flash went
off.
"Thanks."
"Thank you."Giles grabbed Willow's hand, gripping it
tightly and headed for the door.
"Have fun"Ivy called out, winking at Willow.
"Don't worry, we will."Giles grinned as he and Willow
left the room.
* * * * *
"So Giles, how far is it to Blockbuster Arena?" Willow
asked. They had been driving for a little over a half
hour now and she wasn't sure if she could sit still
any longer.
"Probably forty-five minute drive. More or less."
Giles replied, looking over at her. "Excited?"
She nodded. "Yep. This is my first concert."
"Really?"
"Yeah. My mom thaought that concerts were and I quote
'A place where hormonal teenagers congregate to listen
to earsplitting and mind numbing noise.'" she smiled
at him. " So hence, I never went to one. How about
you?"
"A few. " he shrugged. "The Who, Stones, the Clash but
never Cream. They broke up before I was of age. I'd
always wanted to hear their songs live." he turned to
give her a brilliant smile." Now I can."
She blushed. "Is Eric Clapton your favorite member of
the group?" Giles nodded.
"He's exceptional on the guitar. He combines blues,
rock and little jazz to produce these amazing riffs
that send chills up your spine." he said, excitedly.
Willow was looking at him, amazement and happiness on
her face. She loved Giles like this. He was talking
with so much passion, so much enthusiasm, that he was
acting like a kid in a candy store. She'd only seen
him like that a few times before. When he had found
some obscure prophecy after long hours of research or
the time she handed him the pages on Ascension, he'd
bubbled over. But never like this. It was wonderful to
see him so happy. And to know she made it happen was
icing on the cake.
"Hey! You played the guitar, right? Did you want to
play like him?"
He nodded. "I think every guitarist wants to be like
Clapton. " he laughed, then raised his eyebrows
questioningly. "How did you know I played? I never
mentioned to anyone before?"
She squirmed. "Well...ummmm..Remember the Egyhon
incident?" he nodded numbly. "Well, when we were
trying to find out how to stop it, we had to look
through some things in you office. And Xander found a
picture of you, in a leather jacket holding a guitar."
"I see."
"You're not mad, are you? I mean.." He heldup his hand
to quiet her.
"Willow, it's okay. I'm not mad. Just surprised,
that's all."
"Do you still play?"
He shook his head. "No, but I still have it." he
looked at her, smiling. "I could play for you
sometime, if you'd like."
"I'd like very much." she beamed. They grinned at each
other when a thought occurred to Giles.
"Willow, I've been wondering. How did you know I liked
Eric Clapton?"
"Well, remeber when I had to borrow those Ella
Fitzgerald albums of yours for my History of Women in
Music class, last quarter?" he nodded." Well, I
remember, as I was looking for the Ella records, that
you had alot of Cream albums. So, I thought about
getting you something from them but I wasn't sure what
albums you had already, so I went on the Internet.
Typed in Cream, saw Eric Clapton's name, it totally
slipped my mine that he had been a member, and went on
his official website and saw the advertisement for the
concert. And boom-bam, I had two tickets. " she said,
brightly.
"My, that took considerable effort, Willow." he said
admiredly.
"Anything for you, Giles." she beamed. He smiled, his
heart swelling with happiness. He reached out to
stroke her hair," Thank you again, Willow. " he said
huskily. "Best present ever."
"Your welcome, Giles."
****************************
In the parking lot of Blockbuster Arena:
"Oh my. How many people are they?" she exclaimed,
noticing the sea of cars. Giles was right. It had
taken about an hour and fifteen or so minutes to get
here from Sunnydale. And it seemed like it would take
another half hour to just park the car.
"Tens of thousands, probably." Giles said, as he paid
the parking fee." Thank you." he threw the ticket on
the dashboard and proceeded to follow the trail of
cars into the lot.
As they were chugging along, Giles stole a galnce at
Willow. She looked radiant. Aside from her spectacular
outfit, it was the look on her face that enchanted
him. Her eyes shined like emeralds and her smile lit
up the night. Not to mention his life. But, it was
knowing that he was the reason for her...radiance, her
happiness was the biggest thrill of all.
Hearing a honk behind him, he snapped out of his
reverie and followed in the direction the parking
staff was pointing to. Slipping into the designated
space, Willow exclaimed." Allright! We're here."
bouncing slightly in her seat. She caught Giles
staring at her and she said sheepishly," Sorry. I
guess I'm a little excited."
"Nothing to be sorry about, Willow. If I wasn't so
busy parking the car,I'd probably would have jumped up
and down in my seat too." he grinned, teasingly.
She blushed and kissed his cheek." You're one in a
million, Giles." she stated before opening the door
and stepping out.
He sat there for a moment stunned before getting out
of the car. Coming around to her side, he grabbed her
hand and lead them to the arena.
**************
Arena:
After entering the gate, they realized they had some
time before the show started, so they decided to look
around. There were booths and booths lined up, selling
anything with Eric Clapton on it. Everything from
sequined T-shirts to buttons to full length
posters.Willow spotted a booth selling programs and
remarked." Look, programs!"
Giles turned to see and asked, "Do you want one?"
"Yeah. But, I'll get it Giles." she reached for her
purse and he put out his hand.
"It's on me, Willow." he said, before heading over to
the booth.
Willow looked at him fondly. Giles was wonderful. She
was so glad that she'd gotten him the tickets. Even
though, it took awhile to find the right gift, seeing
Giles happy was worth it.
While thinking to herself, she didn't notice someone
coming up to her. Standing next to her, he said."
Hello, littlt lady." she looked up and saw a tall,
lanky man talking to her. "You're not alone, are you?"
he asked, his voice oily.
She shook her head. "No, I'm here with someone."
Willow took him in. He was lanky with longish blond
hair and penetrating blue eyes. He appeared to be in
his twenties and fairly good looking, but nowhere near
as handsome as Giles.
"Are you sure? I don't see anyone." the stranger
drawled, looking around and moving closer to her.
She moved away. "He'll be right back."
"Well, why don't I just hang out here and wait with
you until he comes back. If he comes back." the guy
grinned sexily and before he could reach out to put
his arm around her, Willow felt a strong arm around
her waist.
"I'm back." said Giles, his voice taking on a
possessive tone. He handed Willow the program." Here,
love."
"Thank you." she smiled sweetly and wrapped her arm
around Giles' waist, holding him tightly.
The stranger looked perplexed. "He's your date?"
"Yes. Do you have a problem?" Giles answered,
brusquely before Willow could. He didn't like the way
the man kept looking at Willow. He was looking at her
like she was fresh meat ready to be eaten. He felt a
possessive urge take over him and wanted nothing more
than to punch him.
The stranger shook his head, chuckling." No, man. It's
just he's not what I expected you with, sweetheart."
he said, looking at Willow. Giles' ire rose at that
and he stepped forward predatory.
Willow held him back. " Hey! Listen, whoever you are!
One, don't ever call me sweetheart. And two, Ripper
here is exactly my type. Unlike you, who's not. "she
snuggled closer to Giles, smiling wickedly. " You see,
I only go out with real men. Not boys." she commented,
looking pointedly at the stranger. And with that, she
and Giles walked away.
Once out of earshot, Willow said," Gods, he was
annoying. i'm so glad you came along when you did,
giles." she squeezed him around the waist.
He squeezed her back." Me too. The idea of him laying
even one finger on you.." his voice took on a menacing
tone with a hint of jealousy mixed in.
Willow stopped and turned to face him. Her head
tilted, a slight smile on her face. "Jealous?" she
asked,hope and teasing in her voice.
"Do you want me to be?" he grinned sexily and walked a
few steps away.
She stood there in shock. Did he actually say that?
"Giles!"
He turned back, giving her a lazy grin. "Cmon, love.
Show's going to start." he said, grabbing her hand and
leading her into the arena.
******************
By the time they got to their seats, the show was
going to begin. The place was packed. People of every
age group were there. Young and old, teen and seniors,
all came out to see Eric clapton. Willow was
amazed.She turned to Giles." Are these okay?"
gesturing to the seats.
"Center. Row 12. They are more than opkay, they're
unbelievable." he looked at her, his face shining. "I
don't know how you managed it, Willow, but thank you."
He reached over and pulled her into a hug.
She pulled back slightly. "You're welcome, Giles."
The arena lights dimmed and the stage lit up, Willow
and Giles turned to the stage. As the first notes of
'White Room' were played and Eric Clapton stepped out,
the crowd began to roar. Willow and Giles looked at
each other, each one thinking what a special night
this was going to be.
* * * * *
"In the white room, with black curtains near the
station..."
The crowd cheered wildly, hooting and hollering.
Everywhere people were singing and dancing to the
beat. Willow looked over at Giles and smiled. He was
singing along, his eyes glued to the stage.
"At the party, she was kindness in the hard
crowd...Consolation for the cold wound now
forgotten.."
Giles turned to see Willow swaying her shoulders
seductively. She had this sly little smile on her
face, a 'I've got a secret' smile. Her body was oozing
sensuality, causing him to want to act on impulses
he'd only dreamed about.
She turned, catching him staring at her. She grinned
brightly and grabbed his hand. He gripped it hard and
gazed down at her. Normally, he would have been
flustered and embarrassed at her catching him staring.
But tonight, instead of feeling embarrassment, he
felt...almost a..sort of self-satisfaction at being
caught. It was arousing.
He hadn't felt this alive in ages. So happy, so
carefree. Best of all, absolutely no worries. Smiling,
he pulled Willow closer and planted a kiss on her
forehead.
She grinned, mildly disappointed that he didn't kiss
her on the lips. But when she looked up, he was
smiling, a smile full of promise.
The crowd began clapping and they realized that the
song had ended. Both of them joined in and were
yelling their hearts out.
Before the audience could simmer somewhat, the sounds
of 'Crossroads' were already being heard. Barely
catching a breath, Eric Clapton started to sing:
"I went down to the crossroads, fell down on my knees
I went down to the crossroads,fell down on my knees
asked the Lord above for mercy, Save me if you
please.."
Giles began to whistle and Willow started to scream.
Soon, they were both lost in the song.
********************************
Two songs later ( Badge & Pretending):
"Now, for a slight change of pace." said, Eric
Clapton as he started to strum the guitar. " This is
dedicated to one of the greats in reggae. Bob Marley."
The notes of ' I Shot the Sheriff' poured out over
the arena. The steady beat of the drums and Clapton's
easy playing brought the arena to an almost mellow,
relaxed state.
"I shot the sheriff, but I did not shoot the deputy.
I shot the sheriff, but i did not shoot the deputy"
Willow and Giles faced each other, each one singing
the song. They both beamed. Willow started to move
slowly,swaying with subtlety. Her eyes on Giles the
whole time.
"I shot the sheriff, but I swear it was in
self-defense
I shot the sheriff, but they say it was a capital
offense."
Willow sang right along with Clapton, the whole time
sweeping her eyes up and down Giles' body, taking him
in. He felt his body surge with heat at her stare.
'Two can play at this..', he thought smugly.
"I shot the sheriff, but I swear it was in
self-defense
I shot the sheriff, but I swear it was in
self-defense."
This time, it was Giles who was singing along, swaying
his hips towards hers. Reaching out, he let his hand
travel down the side of her face, to her shoulder then
slowly down her arm, his hips still moving in rhythm
of the song.
Willow gasped and noticeably shivered. The touch of
him was electrifying. She sensually moved closer to
him, until both of them were swaying
slowly,seductively but yet still not touching.
Their movements were teasing,arousing, intoxicating.
Their eyes could look nowhere else but on each other,
as if under a hypnotic spell.
"I shot the sheriff but I did not shoot the deputy oh
no
I shot the sheriff but I did not shoot the deputy oh
no"
They continued dancing, slowly until the last strings
faded away. The arena burst into applause and Willow
and Giles snapped out of their reveries. Shaking their
heads, they mimicked the crowd's response.
"You're a great dancer!" Willow yelled in his ear.
He grinned devilishly. "I'm great at many things." he
said in her ear.
She quirked her eyebrow and a lazy smile lit up her
face. He returned one of his own, his smile playful
yet sensual. At that moment, both of them knew that as
the night went on, things could only get more
interesting.
********************************
Two more songs later ( Cocaine & Lay Down Sally):
Suddenly the mood of the concert changed from a
mellow and laid back atmosphere to an upbeat,
energetic one. As one of the backup singers started to
shake the tambourine, the audience, along with Willow
& Giles, screamed.
"After midnight were gonna let it all hang down
After midnight were gonna chug-a-lug and shout
We're gonna stimulate some action
We're gonna get some satisfaction
We're gonna find out what it is all about."
When the music started playing and Eric Clapton
started strumming, Willow and Giles started dancing.
Shaking, bobbing, clapping to the beat, both of them
were caught up in the fast tempo and pounding beat.
"After midnight we're gonna shake your
tambourine,"Willow sang along while undulating her
hips in time with the music. She turned her head to
see Giles doing almost the same thing. He was singing
along, tapping his foot.
Noticing her, he pulled her so that she was slightly
in front of him and started to grind against her.
Willow quivered as her backside touched his hard
muscular leg. She began to move with him, so that
their bodies were in sync. Turning her head, she
smiled widely, shaking her upper body so that her
breasts shook. His eyes glittered and he pressed more
firmly to her. She moaned softly and before anything
more could happen, the song ended.
As Willow started to pull away, the electric sounds
of 'Layla' blasted through the area. The crowd
screamed and hollered, clapped and stamped their feet.
This was the loudest they had been all night.
Hearing the first notes of 'Layla', Willow jumped up
in delight while Giles gave a long and loud
whistle.Willow laughed in delight at Giles'
enthusiasm. It was wondrous to see him so relaxed, so
free.
"What'll you do when you get lonely
And nobody's waiting by your side
You've been running and hiding much too long
You know it's just your foolish pride."
"LAYLA!" Willow and Giles sang to each other along
with the rest of the crowd.
"You've got me on my knees." Willow shimmied against
Giles, her eyes dark with desire.
"LAYLA! I'm begging darling, please." Giles sang, his
eyebrows raised suggestively at Willow, causing her to
shake her hips even more.
"Layla, darling won't you ease my worried mind..."
The audience became louder and excited as Clapton
riffed, the sound pulsating throughout the area.
"I tried to give you consolation
When your old man had let you down.
Like a fool, I fell in love with you,
Turned my whole world upside down."
"LAYLA!" sang Eric Clapton, at the same time, Giles
pulled Willow to him and sang in her ear, "WILL-OW!"
She shivered as he continued, "You've got me on my
knees, WILL-OW!" his hand traveled down her back, over
her behind, "I'm begging darling, please."
"(Layla), Willow , darling won't you ease my worried
mind." Clapton sang as Giles did the same, his eyes
sparkling .
Willow bit her lip sexily, her eyes never leaving
Giles' face. She began to shake her shoulders, then
her hips seductively. Putting her hands on her hips,
she pressed herself to Giles and danced halfway down
him then back uo. He gazed at her, his eyes dark,
focusing only on her. He grinned the grin that Willow
knew well.
Ripper.
She smiled slyly, still moving as Clapton sang,
"Let's make the best of the situation
Before I finally go insane
Please don't say we'll never find our way
And tell me all my love's in vain."
"LAYLA!" Willow and Giles screamed at each other,
their faces close enough to kiss.
"You've got me on my knees.."
"LAYLA! I'm begging darling, please." they sang to
each other, their eyes never leaving the other's face.
Hot,piercing, penetrating, they stared at one another,
the looks searing, burning the other.
"LAYLA!, darling won't you ease my worried mind."
"LAYLA!" Giles sang to Willow.
"LAYLA!" Willow sang back to Giles.
As Eric Clapton sontinued singing, she started dancing
again. This time for Giles. Shimming, shaking, breast
and hips gyrating. Her eyes were locked on his, almost
daring him to do something. Anything.
He was mesmerized. His whole body was focused on
hers. Her eyes were hot, sultry as he knew his own
must be.
Teasing, tempting, tantalizing.
Her movements combined with the electric sounds of
'Layla' pulsating throughout the arena were telling
him, daring him to respond to her performance.
And he did.
Not caring if anyone was watching or of right and
wrong, Giles dug his hand into her fiery hair and
pulled her flush against him.
Before she could do anything, his lips came crashing
down on hers. She gasped and her mouth parted in a
little 'o'. That was all the invitation Giles needed.
Slipping his tongue inside her mouth, he sweeped away
all resistance, claiming her mouth as his. He explored
every nook and cranny, form the roof of her mouth to
the edges of her teeth.
Shocked but most definitely excited, Willow entangled
her tongue with his, emulating the same sexy dance
that she'd started with her body.
He tightened his hold on her hair, tugging it so her
head tilted slightly back, while she clung to him for
support. Nipping, biting, licking, sucking at her
lips, until both were moaning, thankful that the music
drowned out their passion.
As Clapton played, and the last electric, throbbing
sounds of 'Layla' were being heard, Willow and Giles
were caught up in their own performance. A performance
marked with passion, lust and pure animalistic need.
A performance like no other. A performance that was
meant only for the two of them.
And as Eric Clapton played the last riff and 'Layla'
was winding down, Willow and Giles continued. Not
caring about anything. Caring only about the moment.
This one erotic,perfect moment.
* * * * *
"There will be a 30 minute intermission!" the
announcer said over the loud speaker.
Finally after what seemed like an eternity, Willow and
Giles broke the kiss. They were both panting harshly,
trying to catch their breath. Eyes were dilated,
mouths swollen from passion, they were too busy
staring at each other that they didn't notice the
people leaving their seats.
"Excuse me?" asked, a lady pushing her way past both
of them. Snapping out of his reverie, Giles looked
around and concluded,"It must be intermission," he
panted, "Would you like to get some air?"
She nodded and followed him out into the aisle. There
was such a mad rush to the concessions that Giles
feared he might lose Willow in the den of people, so
he clutched her hand tightly, bringing her closer to
him.
Navigating their way, once outside, Giles led them to
an empty space on the grass. Plopping down, he slipped
off his jacket and spread it out. Standing
there,Willow couldn't help but stare. By taking off
his jacket, she was able to see the subtle muscles of
his arms and how nicely the shirt clinged to his firm
chest. Her eyes traveled down his body, finally
resting on his legs. With his legs extended, the
leather seemed to tighten even more, especially in
certain prominent areas.
Shaking her head, she noticed Giles holding his hand
out to her. Accepting the offer, she let him guide her
to the ground.
"Thanks." she said, tugging on her skirt which had
risen up her thigh, a fact not lost on Giles.
Sitting there silently, both of them idly wondered if
the other was going to mention the kiss.Breaking the
silence, Giles spoke first.
"I guess I should apologize for kissing you," he
looked over at her, "but quite honestly, I'm not."
"Neither am I." she replied, smiling softly.
He reached out to stroke her hair and she
unconsciously leaned into his touch. Heads close
together, their mouths inches apart, they leaned in to
kiss when...
"Hey, man. Have a light?" a boy asked, holding a
cigarette between his teeth.
At the sudden outburst, they broke apart. Looking up
at the boy, Giles asked,"Huh?"
"I said, do you have a light?"
"Uh..no..Sorry."Giles answered,as the boy walked
away.'Bugger' he thought, glaring at retreating boy.
Now that the romantic mood had been broken somewhat,
Willow leaned back on her hands, grinning
mischievously.
"You look like the cat that ate the canary," he
exclaimed, mimicking her body position. "What is
making you smile like that?"
"You."
"Me?"
"Uh unh." she nodded emphatically.
He smirked. "Well are you going to tell me why, my
little temptress." he reached out and pulled a few
strands of hair. "Or do I have to guess?"
"I'll tell... she sat up, patting his leg. "It's
just..so good to see you FINALLY relax. I can't
remember the last time I've seen you smile this much."
He pouted teasingly. "What? Are you trying to tell me
you don't like my smile?"
Willow blushed." No. I didn't say that. I like your
smile...very much." she said, eyes twinkling. "What
I'm saying is that it's good to see you happy. I like
you happy."
He ruffled her hair. "I am happy." he replied, staring
pointedly at her, causing her to smile shyly.
Clearing her throat, Willow said, "You know, I'm
having a great time so far." She turned and flashed
him a grin. "Thanks again for inviting me."
Giles beamed. "Thank YOU for accepting. I know how
busy you are with school and Oz...." he trailed off,
his voice tinged with sadness.
Noticing his voice, Willow said hurriedly, "Oh no! I'm
not that busy. Class is fine and Oz....well, Oz is
away for a gig. A week at least."
"Oh?" he asked curiously.
"Yup. The Dingoes are starting to get a couple of
gigs..mostly college towns. Santa Cruz, Santa
Barbara.." she smiled shyly, "You know, he was excited
when he found out that I was going to see Eric
Clapton."
"He was?"
"Uh-uh."She nodded, smiling. "But not as excited as I
was."
"I'm glad." he smiled. He looked down at the ground,
"As much as I like Buffy, I'm glad she's not here and
that I was able to take you."
"Me too." Willow glanced over at him. "Actually, she
took it pretty well I thought."
He nodded. "Yes, she did. I just casually informed her
that I wanted to take you. She started to make an
argument for herself until I explained that it would
be pointless to take someone who doesn't even know who
Eric Clapton is."
Willow giggled. "If I recall, didn't she call him Eric
Clinton?"
Giles chuckled. "Yes. I told her how much you enjoyed
him and that it would be more fun to bring someone who
appreciates his music." he recalled to Willow, the
conversation with Buffy fresh in his mind.
**
'"Fun! You think I'm not fun!" Buffy bellowed.
"I didn't say that. I just said that since Willow
likes Eric Clapton then it would be more fun to take
someone who actually likes the person they're going to
see." He stared at her pointedly, "Besides, you don't
know who he is, do you Buffy?"
Buffy shrugged sheepishly. "No, but..."
"Is this going to bother you?" he asked, with a little
sharpness in his voice. "Because it shouldn't.."
"No, it doesn't." Buffy smiled at him. "It's okay.
Take Willow. She needs a break."
"Thanks, Buffy." he smiled brightly at her.
She pointed a finger at him, "Just remember, if you
ever get tickets to see Beck in concert, you have to
take me."
"I will." Giles promised, having no clue to what a
'Beck' was. '
***
Turning to Willow, he said, "Anyway, I promised to
take her if I ever get tickets for some 'Beck' gig.
That seemed to satisfy her."
"Good." Willow grinned and wiggled. "I'm having too
much fun tonight."
"Are you?" Giles asked curiously.
Willow turned her body to the side, lounging like a
sexy cat. "Yes." she replied, her eyes staring
intently at him.
"And why is that?" he asked silkily, running his hand
down her arm.
"Great music, beautiful night..." she answered,
pointing to the sky.
He nodded, looking up to where she was pointing.
"Hmmm... you're right." he glanced down at her, his
voice becoming softer. "Any other reason?"
Gazing down, she answered just as softly, "The
wonderful company." Giles' heart rate sped up at her
words. He was about to speak, when she continued,
"That's the best reason...the company." she softly
told him, flashing him shy smile.
Pushing a few strands of hair off her shoulder, he
replied. "That's my only reason for having fun
tonight." he grinned slyly, "The wonderful company."
"Only?" she asked, raising an eyebrow, "How about the
music?"
Sitting up, Giles replied, "Well, his music is
outstanding, but it can't compare to the company." he
put his arm around her, pulling her closer to him.
Snuggling into his warmth, Willow sighed contentedly.
The evening was turning out better than she expected.
Being with Giles....talking to Giles was better than
ever. She'd always loved spending time with him,
discussing prophecy and magic, but this time it was
different.
It was as if she was seeing Giles the person, not
just a Watcher. An average person who liked to kick
back and have a good time, a fact sometimes lost on
everyone.
He was just as interesting and easy to talk to as
before. But with a slight difference. Tonight, he was
more outgoing, more flirtatious, more bold than she
had ever seen him. It was an sensational sight to see.
And how could she forget that kiss?
Wild, passionate, intense..The kiss was unlike any
other kiss she'd experienced. The feel of his lips on
hers, his arms around her, brought feelings to surface
that she tried to bury.
At that moment, she wanted the kiss to last forever,
not giving a rats ass about the concert, other people
or anything. Every emotion she had ever felt for him
rose tenfold during the kiss.
Love, lust, compassion, admiration, desire....
All these emotions caused by one kiss. One beautiful,
fervent kiss that had made her want Giles more than
she'd ever wanted anything in her life. Including
Xander.
She finally admitted to herself what she actually
wanted to accomplish on this date. For Giles to view
her as a woman, not just a research assistant. And to
be honest, a potential girlfriend.
And to her elation, it was working!
The lusty stares, the intimate touches, the sexy
dances Giles was giving her were obvious enough hints
that he wanted her. So obvious even Mr.Magoo couldn't
miss them!
And Giles wasn't the only one who was giving off
signals.
She knew that her behavior, her attitude towards him
was more suggestive than before. Her own sensual
dances, light touches and smoky glances came of their
own accord. And Giles wasn't complaining.
In fact,to her delight, he was responding. Gyrating,
molding his body to hers while singing in her ear at
the same time, he was expressing his desires as
blatantly as she was.
And neither one was complaining.
Tilting her head back, Willow looked at Giles,
smiling. He was sitting there with his eyes closed, a
sexy smile on his face. She reached up and very gently
touched his lips with her fingers.
Opening his eyes at the contact, Giles blinked and
grinned down at her. Noticing her smile and feeling
her fingertips on his lips, he kissed them gently.
She chuckled softly and burrowed herself deeper into
him, if that was possible.
"What are you smiling at love?" Giles asked huskily.
"At you." Willow sat up, staring at him full on. "You
looked so peaceful with your eyes closed and that soft
smile on your face. I don't remember the last time I
saw you so relaxed."
Giles sat up as well, "That's because I haven't been
so relaxed until tonight." He gazed at her, flashing
her a Ripper-like grin that made her shiver.
Mistaking her shiver for the cold, Giles grew
concerned. "Are you cold? Would you like to wear my
jacket?"
Not really cold ,but unable to pass up the opportunity
to wear his jacket, Willow nodded. Standing up, she
retrieved the jacket and slipped it on. The jacket
engulfed her in its warmth and Willow inhaled the
rich, musky smell that was Giles. Snuggling into it,
she glanced down and asked, "Where should I sit now?"
Giles shook his head, clearing away all impure
thoughts that had entered his mind the minute he saw
Willow in his jacket, said, "Ummm..." he glanced down
and a grin appearing on his face. "On my lap?"
Willow blanched for a moment, unable to comprehend
what he was suggesting. 'Giles lap? Oh God.' she
thought as she stared down at him. Realizing he was
waiting for an answer, she replied, "Okay."
Smiling like the Cheshire cat, Giles reached up,
grabbed her waist and pulled her down. Setting her on
his lap, Willow moved around until she got
comfortable. Her wiggling caused Giles' body to
respond and he desperately hoped he would be able to
keep his body in check. He didn't want to embarrass
himself or her. And certainly didn't want to scare
her.
On the other hand, the way things were going, it
seemed unlikely to him that his body's response would
scare her. Tonight, she was more provocative, more
sensual than he'd ever seen her. Dancing with him,
singing to him, Willow was voicing her desires loud
and clear.
And he was answering the call.
Responding in kind, he was what one would say 'putting
the moves on her'. Touching her intimately, in ways
only Oz had, he was brazenly displaying his love for
her with no regards to propriety.
And kissing her....
He knew he shouldn't have. He knew he was overstepping
certain boundaries that had been created between him
and Willow, but he didn't bloody care.
Wanting to kiss her the moment he had first lain eyes
on her, this was an golden opportunity for that want
to be satiated. There was no way he was going to pass
it up. Not for Oz. Not for anyone or anything.
Hot, fervent, passionate....the kiss was more than he
dreamed. Holding her in his arms, her supple body
pressed to his, awoke all the pent up passions that he
had continually buried. The minute her lips met his,
the untamed lust and love he had for her was
unleashed.
Ripper, the wild and wicked side of him, took over,
kissing her with a savageness that rivaled an untamed
beast. Normally, that side of him would be alarming,
but tonight, he released it. Flirtatious and wicked,
brazen and bold, tonight he felt less like the prim
Watcher he had made himself into and more like the man
that had been lusted after by half of London.
Stroking her hair, he sighed happily. And Willow....
If her actions were any indication, Willow was
enjoying Ripper, touching him, kissing him with the
same fervor as he. Not surprisingly though.
She had always been the one to accept that side of
him. And the others acted like Ripper only existed
when magic or something supernatural was occurring.
Not really believing that he could exist all of the
time.
But with Willow, Giles knew that she regarded Ripper
as part of him all the time. The rare times he let
that part out, Willow would act as if nothing unusual
had occurred, while the others especially Buffy,
reacted stunned and horrified.
Maybe that's why he wasn't afraid to reveal Ripper to
her. Accepting, wanting and perhaps caring about
Ripper, allowed Giles to unveil his true self, to
divulge everything that was him without, worrying
about being rebuffed or admonished.
Willow responded to his advances, especially the kiss
with a passion that would have made Anais Nin proud.
He always knew that underneath the innocence and quiet
demeanor she exhibited, lay a fire burning, yearning
to be let loose.
He highly doubted that Oz or even Xander had been a
receipant of such a arduous kiss. And even if they
had, he suspected that neither boy handled it well.
Knowing Xander and Oz as he did, he figured that they
might have been slightly wary with her ardor,
wondering where their sweet willow had gone to.
Probably worrying that some magical mayhem was the
culprit, not even considering that was Willow's true
self.
Coming out of his thoughts, Giles looked down to see
Willow's face nestled in his neck, her breath
caressing his skin, causing ripples of pleasure to
course down his spine. Tightening his arms around her,
he asked. "Willow, love?"
"Hmm?" she answered dreamily.
"Are you falling asleep?" he asked, an amusing tone to
his voice.
Pulling away to Giles' disappointment, Willow replied,
"No. I'm just relaxing, enjoying the moment." she
wiggled making Giles shiver involuntarily, "And you?
You were quiet too. Whatcha thinking about?"
Grinning down at her, Giles responded, "Oh,..just
fancying a few thoughts." he stroked her hair
languidly, tangling his fingers lightly in her hair.
"About what?"
"Now, if I told you that love, then all the mystery
would be over." he grinned lasciviously.
Willow sat up straighter, her movement causing yet
another shiver to singe through Giles. Mockingly, she
asked, "Oh, being evasive now?"
"No, little pixie. I don't believe in showing all my
cards at once." he smiled sensually. Looking into her
emerald eyes, he asked seriously, "Isn't it more fun
to let the anticipation build rather than spilling it
all for an instant gratification?"
"Depends." She eyed him suspiciously. Giving him a
smirk, she added, "Will it be worth the wait?"
Giles grinned lecherously. "I always am."
"Why Mr. Giles are you flirting with me?" she asked
throwing her arm around his neck.
"Miss Rosenberg," he purred, resting his hand lightly
on her knee. "Aren't we one to call the kettle black?"
Her eyes widened in surprise, causing Giles' grin to
turn even more laschoivous. Seeing his grin, Willow
returned it, leaning closer to him. Her gaze flickered
to his mouth and back up to his eyes, meeting the fire
there. Licking her lips casually, she bent down to
kiss him when.....
"Five minutes to the second set! Five minutes till
the second set begins!" The announcer boomed through
the loudspeakers.
Willow jumped, almost sliding off Giles' lap. He
caught her and held her. They were both breathing
hard, from the loud announcement or the near kiss,
neither one was sure.
Staring at her, he asked, "Are you all right, love?"
he pulled her in a little closer. "Thought you were
gonna jump off the roof there."
Scrunching up her face, she pouted. "Hey! Are you
saying I'm a 'fraidy cat?"
"Well, if the shoe fits.." he teased, laughing as she
huffed.
Scrambling off his lap, she stood up. He watched agape
as she straightened his skirt and proceeded to walk
away from him.
Jumping up, he strode after her. "Willow..." he
pleaded.
Smiling to herself, she turned and faced him, a look
of peeviness on her face. "Yes?"
"I didn't mean to insinuate that I thought you were
afraid." Giles explained, his voice taking on a
begging tone.
"And what did you mean exactly?" she asked, barely
able to keep the laughter out of her voice.
"Willow, I'm sorry. I would never..." he trailed off,
noticing her laughing softly. Raising an eyebrow, he
asked. "Are you..."
"Pulling your leg?" she interrupted. "Yup. I am.
Gotcha ya." she giggled, bouncing slightly.
Watching her, Giles knew he could never be angry with
her. Striding up predatorily, he stopped in front of
her. Her breath increased at his nearness, her body
tingling all over.
Grinning, he said, "So you did." he gazed at
her,losing himself in her emerald eyes.
Enraptured, Willow breathed out, "That you did."
wondering if he was going to kiss her, wanting him
desperately to.
Tilting her chin, he purred, "You do realize that I'm
going to have to get you back for that one, hmmm
love?"
A mischievous glint appeared in her eyes and she
whispered. "I'm betting on it."
* * *