BAD ANGEL

A/N: well, not as long as the last time but alas, RL continues. My thesis is killing me but Bad Angel keeps me alive. I hope you enjoy this installment.


Part 15

Buffy glared at his retreating form indignantly, her anger rising by the moment. He was intolerable. His pompous, unapologetic attitude and his damn little nicknames irked her so much that she could barely restrain the urge to slap him. She was so angry she could almost taste the satisfaction from it. That arrogant asshole! Now she had to spend the entire day with him and Lindsey. Damn!!!
Growing increasingly frustrated, she took several deep breaths to calm herself. She couldn’t afford to let her anger get the better of her. Somehow she’d managed to escape his wrath the day before and now she really didn’t want press her luck. After seeing him at his worst, she would do almost anything to avoid that cold fury in his eyes. Besides, perhaps going out was a good idea after all. It could be just the chance she needed. After a few moments, she composed herself and left the closet.

However, as she made her way to the balcony she saw Angel sitting at the table, busily reading a newspaper. She paused, silently fuming. Something about seeing him sitting there made playing nice near impossible.
Noticing her hesitation, he put aside his newspaper, “Please, sit.”
When she came only a bit closer, he continued, “I took the liberty of ordering your breakfast. I think you’ll like what I selected.” He gestured to the setting across from him.
Following his gesture she looked over to the covered dishes, his presumptuousness kicking her ire up a notch.
“You sure are full of yourself aren’t you?”
Hearing the taunt in her voice, he grimaced. Things were getting off to a great start. “Buff, please. I know you’re still angry about yesterday but I don’t wish to argue with you. Let’s at least try to have a pleasant day.” He then gestured to her seat again.

Considering his words briefly she remembered her little pep talk in the closet and decided to concede. Given her disadvantage, instigating trouble wouldn’t be wise.
Quietly taking her seat across from him, she pointedly sat and paused dramatically before removing the cover from her plate. There she proceeded to carefully inspect the meal before her. On the larger plate was a scrumptious looking omelette and next to it were two smaller dishes, one with papaya and cherries, the contents of the other were unfamiliar.
At her questioning look he responded, “I thought I’d introduce you to some of the local cuisine.”
Smiling when she raised her eyebrows skeptically, he added, “Don’t worry, it’s not poison.” Then taking a fork, he pointed out the new items, “This is roasted breadfruit and this is cocoa bread and cheese. I figured I wouldn’t overwhelm your taste buds if I mixed it with something familiar, hence the omelette and fruit.” At her still apprehensive expression, “Try it, I think you’ll like them.”
Cautiously she took a small bite of the breadfruit. It was very tender and surprisingly rather sweet. It was nothing like what she would have expected something named breadfruit to taste like. She then took a bite from the cocoa bread and cheese. The bread was only slightly sweet and the cheese was sharper than she was used to but overall both were quite pleasing. Granted she was tempted to spit it out and refuse to eat but admittedly she was rather hungry. And since she was planning to escape then it would be a good idea to eat something first. So at his expectant look, she grudgingly nodded her approval and in resignation, began unraveling her napkin.
That’s when she saw it.
A single Sterling Silver rose hidden within the white folds of the cloth napkin. Struck by the vibrant lavender petals and silver undertones, she lightly caressed the rose then after a moment, brought it to her nose and deeply inhaled its fragrance. They were her favorite.
Letting the rose linger, she remembered the last time she received a bouquet of Sterling roses. Her birthday.
Observing her contemplative expression, Angel uneasily wondered if he made the same mistake as he had with the poem. And the longer she remained silent the more uncertain he got.
Then suddenly she smiled. It was so small and so brief that only the flush of her cheeks gave it away. Then just as quickly as it appeared, it was gone. Despite his relief at her smile, he doubted that it was for him.
Placing the rose on the table, she looked directly at him. “Where are we going?”
Furrowing his brow curiously as to why she smiled, he vaguely answered, “After we collect your clothes, we’re taking a tour of the island.”
“Of the entire island?” She asked skeptically.
“Hmm, much of it.”
“Won’t that take hours?”
Looking at her speculatively “Do you have plans that I’m unaware of?”
“Oh yes, I’m hosting a little tea party.”
Smirking at her sarcasm he amended, “I just mean does it matter if it takes all day?”
Shrugging, “What do you care anyway? As long as I’m your little obedient prisoner, you don’t really give a damn.”
“Look Buffy, I thought getting out and doing something different would help ease the tension between us but we can stay home if you don’t want to go.”
She reveled in the frustrated edge in his voice. She was definitely pushing his buttons. However, as fun as pissing him off might be, pushing him too far would probably cost her the chance to leave the villa.
Thinking better of it, she conceded. “No. It’s fine. Getting out is probably a good idea, being cooped up too long tends to make me cranky.” Then ignoring the temptation to aggravate him further, she wisely began eating her breakfast.
Although suspicious, he accepted her concession and poured them both a glass of orange juice. Then uncovering his own dish, he proceeded with breakfast.
They had a long day ahead of them.


About half an hour later, when Buffy was finally ready, the three left the villa. As Lindsey drove, she and Angel sat in the rear. The silence was uncomfortable. Attempting to ease the awkwardness, Angel began pointing out a few landmarks. He told her that they lived in Runaway Bay, which was about half an hour from Ocho Rios.
As he talked, Buffy noticed that he appeared to be gauging her reactions. He kept his voice low and gentle and although his arm was draped around her on the back of the seat, he consciously avoided touching her. He was clearly trying to figure out how to handle her. Noting his behavior, Buffy wondered what the status of their compromise was. Was he backing off entirely or would he still demand that she allow him to kiss her? Deciding not to bring it up, she focused on the scenery.
As if reading her mind, Angel gently touched her hand, startling her.
Reluctantly she met his eyes then he murmured, “We’ll talk later.”
Relieved that he wouldn’t push it for now, she nodded. But of course she had no intentions of ever having that conversation.
The rest of the journey was made in silence.

A short while later, they arrived at the boutique and quickly entered the store. She and Angel were then escorted to the fitting area where several dresses and formal gowns awaited her. Initially, she was annoyed that Angel essentially wanted her to model for him but knowing that he would probably take her back to the villa if she acted up, she decided to oblige him. Swallowing her pride, she knew she had a better chance of escape or at least of being seen if she kept her cool. So at Angel’s suggestion, she tried on the gowns first.
The first was a strapless, floor-length emerald green velvet gown with a corset bodice and a slightly flaring full skirt. It was something out of a fairytale. The color nicely accentuated her creamy skin and the deep green really brought out her eyes. Not surprisingly it was one that Angel picked. As she dressed, she noticed the tag on the garment bag read “Mrs. Rayne.” She bristled.
Nearly hyperventilating at the mere suggestion, she angrily ripped the tag off the bag and for several long moments, forced herself to calm. She had to keep her head. It was then that she saw the index card on the floor. Looking at the remnant of the tag in her hand, she saw that it was simply a plastic tag in which the index card was placed. Her ripping it off broke the snaps securing it in place.
Just then Angel softly knocked on the door. “Buff, do you need any help?”
“No, j-just give me a second.”
Thinking quickly, she snatched the card up and pushed it into the garment bag.
Then after taking a few deep breaths, she opened the door.
Angel audibly gasped at her appearance. Even with the minimal makeup she was wearing and no jewelry, she was absolutely stunning.
Using all of his restraint not to ravage her on the spot, he wordlessly held up the shoes he’d selected to go with the gown.
As she reached for them, he whispered, “No, please sit. I’ll do it.” After seeing her, he didn’t quite trust his voice.
Hesitating briefly, she decided to play along. She didn’t want to make him suspicious. So sighing in exasperation, she sat on the small bench and slightly pulled up her skirt to expose her feet. There she waited expectantly. Once she was seated, Angel moved closer and kneeling before her, slipped the strappy heels on her feet. As he fastened them, he couldn’t help noticing how tightly she was grasping the skirt of the dress. Clearly she intended to thwart any attempt he might make to raise it higher. As if she could stop him.
Locking gazes, he saw the defiance burning in her eyes, daring him to try something. Facetiously meeting her challenge, he drew out his task, lightly caressing her feet as he gazed intently into her eyes.
Completely aware of his wandering hands, Buffy returned his gaze. She knew he was flirting with her and in some way she was flirting back but she refused to let him intimidate her. No matter what, she was not going to retreat.
The seconds crawled by.
Angel was impressed when she didn’t back down and shyly look away as he expected but rather seemed to up the stakes. It was a challenge he couldn’t refuse.
Tempted to see how far he could go, he stealthily moved his hands along her feet, gradually advancing to her ankle and slowly up her leg, never once breaking eye contact. When his hand got midway up her calf she snarled through gritted teeth, “Clearly in your attempt to feel me up, you’ve neglected to see how close my heels are to your crotch. Unless you want to lose something valuable I suggest you back off.” She then smiled sweetly at him.
Only then did he notice the proximity of her rather impressive heels to his groin. Smirking, he promptly returned his hands to her shoes to finish his task. Then, “I see you’re determined to make this difficult, which ordinarily might bother me. But I have to say, you are so damn cute when you’re angry.”
When she glared at him, he added, “Come my love, can’t we call a truce so we can at least get through this? Afterwards I promise you can inveigh me all you want.”
“Stop patronizing me and I am NOT your love!” She then crossed her arms over her chest petulantly.
Angel nearly laughed aloud. How could she expect him not to patronize her when she was pouting so adorably? But he knew she was angry and laughing would only irritate her further. So suppressing his amusement, “Buff, I don’t mean to patronize you but why are you trying to anger me?”
“I’m not.” She murmured.
“Really? Cause to the naked eye, it looks like you’re trying to pick a fight.”
“I’m not! Believe me, the last thing I want is to make YOU angry again. I’m just … cranky I guess.”
“You’re a hell of a lot more than cranky, Buff.”
“Well, it’s not my fault that you inspire nothing but fear and loathing in me.”
“No, I suppose not. And you have every right to feel that way. But Baby, let’s get this done quickly. Then we can get on with our day.” After a moment, “I think you’ll like the tour.”
“And what makes you think that?” She asked irritated by yet another endearment.
Smiling mischievously he replied, “Nothing in particular, I just think you will.”
“Oh well then, it MUST be so.”
Meeting his annoyed glare defiantly, she still refused to back down although now she really was quite nervous that perhaps she had crossed the line.
But Angel saw through her bravado.
“Well perhaps I’m mistaken … so tell you what, afterward you can tell me whether you enjoyed it or not. After all, I only want to … please you.” The sexual innuendo came across loud and clear.
She looked away. Angel smiled smugly at his victory.
When she remained silent, he asked, “Are you ready to do this then or would you prefer to reschedule this appointment?”
Heeding his warning, she hastily replied, “No … don’t reschedule, I-I’m ready.”
He then assisted her to her feet.
The shoes matched perfectly.

They then left the changing room and entered the fitting area where the seamstress awaited to make adjustments. Once she determined that the gown fit perfectly, Buffy returned to the changing room to try the next one.
The next was a knee-length, shimmering light blue sheath dress that fit like a glove. When Angel slipped the clear, silver trimmed heels on her feet she could feel his barely restrained ferocity. She knew he was mere steps from taking her right there in the changing room. This time when he met her eyes, she quickly looked away. She didn’t want to see his hunger for her.
Seeing her retreat, Angel decided not to push it and kept his hands on her shoes.
That dress too was deemed a perfect fit and Buffy quickly moved on to the next.

And so it continued.
She tried on the dresses and Angel spared no expense in lavishly adorning her. Eventually she worked her way through the remaining formal gowns then moved onto the casual dresses.
Throughout it all, Buffy wasn’t the least surprised that again Angel never allowed the attendants to be alone with her. She expected it. But now she was prepared. Unbeknownst to Angel and Lindsey, she had slipped her eyeliner pencil into her pocket before leaving the villa and now she had the perfect plan for that confounded nametag. Relieved that every time she changed Angel waited outside the changing room until she was fully dressed, she used each opportunity to write on the blank side of the card. Using simple phrases, she identified herself, where she was from, whom her father was and most importantly, that she was kidnapped, that Angel was keeping her in Runaway Bay and she needed help.

When all was done and the last dress was given the final approval, Buffy sighed in relief that it was finally over. She could hardly wait to leave her note behind.
As she anxiously returned to the changing room, Angel quietly called her aside.
“Would you please wear this for our outing?” He gestured to the dress she was wearing.
“Why?”
“It’s probably more appropriate for where we’re going … and I’d like to see you wear it.” Buffy was about to protest further but recalling his earlier warning and not wanting to ruin her chances, reconsidered. She didn’t want to return to the villa for the rest of the day just yet. Suppressing the impulse to argue, she nodded and quietly returned to the changing room. She needed to choose her battles wisely.

Standing in the changing room, Buffy assessed the dress she was wearing in the mirror. It was a soft sky blue halter sundress. It fit her quite well, the light material stopping just above her knees and thanks to the soft padding, you couldn’t even tell she wasn’t wearing a bra. Unsure of what Angel’s plans were, she took her final free moments to ask whoever read her note to please contact the U.S. FBI immediately. Sighing, she then placed the card on the small bench and slowly gathered her clothes and prepared to leave.

While Buffy got her things, Angel paid for their purchases. When the sales lady quoted the tally, Angel was slightly taken aback. He wasn’t exactly in the habit of paying attention to prices. Not that money was an issue as such but after his conversation with Lindsey the night before, he didn’t want to risk insulting Buffy by appearing to be attempting to buy her. Relieved that she hadn’t come out of the changing room yet, he quickly took care of it while Lindsey loaded the bags into the vehicle. Shrugging, he shook his head. He was a hopeless case.

Moments later, Angel escorted Buffy to their vehicle while Lindsey got the last of their bags then a short while later the three were on their way to the villa.
On the journey back, all Buffy could think of was her note.

Once they arrived, the servants promptly came out to help carry the shopping bags into the house. Following Angel’s instructions, they carried everything into the master suite and unpacked the items while Buffy and Angel arranged them appropriately. Granted it was a bit of a nuisance but Angel wanted Buffy to arrange her side of the closet and dressing area however she chose. He doubted she would appreciate the servants arranging her personal items. So for about twenty minutes, the two worked quickly, quietly and without incident. Then once all the clothes were put away, they prepared for their tour.

Before leaving Buffy quickly used the bathroom while Angel selected a light sweater for her. Unbeknownst to Buffy, he also pulled out a pair of handcuffs.
Then without further delay, she, Angel and Lindsey again headed out.

For quite some time they drove along the winding hillside, stopping occasionally to explore various sights. The countryside was beautiful and peaceful.
Unfortunately Buffy never got a moment’s peace from Angel.
When they pulled up to the first stop along their journey, Angel revealed the handcuffs.
Rather unsettled by their appearance Buffy nervously asked, “W-Why do you have those?”
Smirking, “I intend to keep you as close to me as possible … I’d hate for you to … lose your way.”
“I-I won’t run … I promise.” She replied, smiling innocently.
“No need to make promises you don’t intend to keep, my dear. I know you won’t run … you won’t be able to.” He then locked the cuff around her wrist.
Frowning, Buffy stubbornly refused to move when Angel opened the door. He wanted to be cuffed to her? Well fine, but she wasn’t going anywhere.
Not even bothering to argue, Angel moved over her then quickly scooped her out of the car before she could stop him.
Struggling in his arms, her protests got louder and louder.
Grateful that no one was around, he asked sternly, “Do you want to go back to the house?”
That halted all protests. “No.”
“I didn’t think so. Now shall I put you down or would you rather I carry you?”
Taking a deep breath, she conceded, “Please put me down.”
“And you’ll cooperate?”
“Yes … I’ll cooperate.”
“Well then, I knew we’d reach a compromise.” He then carefully placed her on her feet.

And so it continued. He handcuffed her to him whenever they left the car, which ordinarily might have drawn attention to them had he not selected only the most remote and sparsely populated places to visit. He made sure no one was around and that she had no chance to make a run for it.
Each time she was cuffed to him, Buffy’s frustration increased exponentially that soon she was imagining strangling him with it. She could almost feel his neck snap under the pressure, the satisfying crunch nearly bringing a smile to her face. If only she could get it around his neck. Tempting as that was, somehow she doubted Lindsey would just sit there while she attacked Angel.
Granted she could try to get the key but she noticed that Lindsey was safekeeping it in the locked glove compartment. When they drove, Angel kept his arms around her. When they stopped, Lindsey would turn around and cuff her to Angel before exiting the vehicle. When they got back into the car, Lindsey only freed her once he was back in the driver’s seat. The entire procedure was a pain in the ass but it was effective. They were tag teaming her; ensuring one of them was always in a position to restrain her if necessary. And thwarting any attempts to jump from the moving vehicle, Buffy was rather dismayed to discover the child locks were on.
She had to give them credit; they really thought this through.
Only by some miracle could she hurl herself into the front passenger seat and jump from there before Angel and Lindsey managed to stop her. Even then, assuming she survived the jump, she would probably injure herself severely enough to make running near impossible. And even if she could manage to run, it was highly unlikely that she’d get very far on foot with both of them pursuing her.
Once the scenario played out in her head she abandoned the idea. There was no way she could pull it off and she certainly wasn’t about to nearly kill herself just to get recaptured. No. Better to wait for something more promising.
Sighing, she leaned back against her seat. The fantasy was fun while it lasted.

For the rest of the journey, Buffy tried to keep her composure. Suppressing her homicidal instincts, she tried to focus on the big picture. If she didn’t get to escape at least her note was out there. She prayed that someone would find it.


About an hour later they pulled up to a small nondescript building located in what looked to be an open field. Exiting the vehicle, Buffy noticed that Angel did not handcuff her. That was no oversight. She was now extremely curious as to what he had planned.
Upon entering the building, a man greeted them.
“Good day, Mr. Rayne.”
Angel nodded and shook the man’s hand in greeting then, “Caleb, I’m sure you remember my cousin Lindsey McDonald.”
“Yes, yes I do. I believe we met a few years ago.”
“Yes, we did.” Lindsey replied as Caleb also shook his hand.
After their greeting, Caleb’s gaze then shifted to Buffy who had wondered a few steps away.
Briefly Angel observed his wanton scrutiny of her, knowing that when it came to women, Caleb couldn’t be trusted. But he had his uses.
Interrupting his carnal fantasy, Angel called over to her.
Upon hearing her name, Buffy was tempted to dawdle in retaliation for the handcuffs but something in the edge of his voice made her respond promptly. Angel wasn’t playing.
As she stood next to him, she noticed the pointed manner with which he took her hand. Only then did she notice the man ogling her.
Suddenly, Buffy felt incredibly uncomfortable. His blatant assessment of her and his entire demeanor sent chills down her spine. The look in his eyes scared her in ways that Angel never had. The term serial killer instantly came to mind. Subconsciously, she squeezed Angel’s hand a little tighter.
Feeling her response, Angel deftly drew her into his arms.
“My dear, this is Caleb. Caleb, this is my girlfriend, Buffy.” His cordial words notwithstanding, the overt warning in Angel’s eyes left no question as to the fate of any man who dared touch what was his.
Unaware that she had squeezed his hand, Buffy was so intently focused on the stranger among them that she hardly seemed to notice Angel’s declaration. She did notice however that his fiercely possessive embrace effectively prevented Caleb from trying to shake her hand. Not that she wanted to shake his hand anyway. Buffy could hardly believe it was possible for someone to be scarier than Angel and his men. Her resentment of the claim Angel felt he had on her aside, at that moment Buffy was relieved for his protective shield.
Noting Angel’s rather impressive alpha male behavior, Caleb knew this one wasn’t to be touched and wisely backed off.
“It’s a pleasure to meet you.” He replied, then immediately getting down to business, Caleb again looked at Angel, “It’s great to do business with you again. Your pilot got here a while ago so the chopper should be ready shortly.”
His pilot? A chopper? Rather unsettled by this news, Buffy wondered where Angel was taking her.

As the small group exited the rear of the building, Buffy saw Lorne busily preparing a rather impressive looking helicopter. Just then Caleb and Lindsey left them and approached the chopper to speak with Lorne.
Buffy looked at Angel uncertainly.
Answering her unasked question, “I told you, we’re taking a tour of the island. We’re doing the rest by helicopter.”
“I figured that much on my own, it’s just … I’d rather keep my feet on the ground.”
“What’s this? You can’t be afraid of flying … you were fine on the plane.”
“Yes but a plane is not a helicopter and anyway, just because I don’t have a paralyzing fear of flying doesn’t mean I don’t have a very healthy respect for the laws of gravity.”
Chuckling, “Is my baby scared?” Angel asked in a sickeningly sweet, cooing tone as he tightened his arms around her, then whispering in her ear, “Don’t worry, I won’t let anything happen to you.”
“Oh, I feel so much better. What was I thinking? After all your hard work kidnapping me and all, I should know you wouldn’t let anything like a little helicopter crash stop you from having your way with me.” Then pointedly extricating herself from his arms, she added, “And for the record, I’m NOT your love, your baby or your girlfriend. And I sure as hell am NOT Mrs. Rayne. My name is Buffy … use it!” She hissed before purposefully striding toward the helicopter.

Watching her walk away from him, Angel took several deep breaths as he counted to ten. And then to twenty. He was torn. Part of him was impressed when she challenged him. It was in some way a sign that she was adjusting to him, that her fear was slowly giving way to her anger and he wanted her to feel free to vent it, to express herself however she needed. But at the same time part of him refused to grant her that freedom but rather still wanted to dominate her completely, to force her to submit to him. But he knew all too well that that way wouldn’t win her heart. Was there a balance? Could he set her free while keeping her in line?
Strolling toward to chopper, Angel pondered his peculiar situation.

Standing at the cabin door, he saw that Buffy was already seated in one of the rear passenger seats. She was staring out the window with her arms again crossed over her chest. Looking at her he saw that she was sulking in very much the same way she had at the boutique. Did she have any idea how tempting she looked? God! He wanted to kiss those pouting lips.
Grabbing two pairs of headphones, he climbed into the back and handed her a set. When she looked at him questioningly, he explained, “The helicopter is very loud, these will protect your hearing. Also, Lindsey and I will be pointing out various landmarks so you’ll need these to hear us.”
She nodded and held them in her lap as she again looked out the window.
After a few moments she asked, “He’s not coming with us, is he?”
“You mean Caleb?” When she nodded, “No, part of his job is to maintain the hangar.”
After a moment, “Who is he?”
“He works primarily for Quentin but occasionally I use his services.”
“His services?” When Angel pointedly looked at her, “Never mind, I don’t want to know.” She then quickly looked away.
Sensing her contempt, Angel was suddenly quite ashamed of himself, of what he did and the kind of people he worked with. The feeling was strange and somewhat overwhelming. Then softly he replied, “Not everything I do is illegal. Despite what you may think, the majority of my work is legitimate.”
Surprised by his comment, she looked at him curiously. Why was he telling her this? Did he think it made one damn difference?
Looking away she said, “I don’t like him.”
Noticing her avoidance he let it go, “I noticed. But then I didn’t expect you to particularly like any of us … given the circumstances.”
“And I don’t like any of you … but he’s different.”
“Different how?”
“I don’t know … the way he looked at me.”
“Ah yes, Caleb is always going after the ladies, which is weird since I don’t think he actually likes women very much but he seems to get a thrill out of stalking them.”
“Is that why you introduced me as your girlfriend?”
“Not entirely, someday I hope it’ll be true.” When she didn’t react he added, “But for the moment yes, unless he has a death wish he won’t be so foolish as to bother you now that he knows that you’re mine.” The words were out of his mouth before he realized what he said. Knowing there was no way to take it back, he cautiously looked at her, waiting for her response.
“Marking your territory I see … how very barbaric of you,” was her calm reply but the anger in her eyes said it all. She then slipped the headphones on, a clear sign that the conversation was over.
Seeing that he’d stepped on yet another landmine, Angel let it go and prepared for their flight.

Moments later, the helicopter took off.

As they took flight, Buffy tightly grabbed her seat. The sensation was very peculiar and rather sudden. It was nothing like a plane. She felt as though she would fall out of the sky at any moment.
Seeing how obviously unsettled she was, Angel murmured, “It takes a little getting used to.” Then hoping to calm her, he draped his arm around her and began pointing out different landmarks. Grateful for the distraction, Buffy didn’t care to argue any more. She just wanted to get back on the ground.
Fortunately, after a while she seemed to adjust to the movement of the helicopter and began to relax somewhat. Seeing her calm, Angel pointed out the villa and Quentin’s house. Over the next half hour they flew over Chukka Cove where a polo match was in progress, then over Dunn’s River Falls and Fern Gully, and a few hills, valleys and rivers. It was some of the most breathtaking scenery she’d even seen. They then headed southeast towards the capital, Kingston. As they flew into the Blue Mountains, they showed her the areas of coffee production. Once they flew over the small settlement called Irish Town, the helicopter began its descent. At the rather jerky movements, Buffy again gripped her seat to steady herself. She didn’t think she’d ever get used to the feeling. She simply couldn’t wait for the trip to be over.

Moments later they had landed on a helipad at a small resort called Strawberry Hill where several attendants greeted them. Relieved that it was finally over, Buffy eagerly disembarked. As far as she was concerned, the flight couldn’t have ended soon enough.

However, the moment she stepped onto the platform, Buffy was awestruck by its beauty. Strawberry Hill was a small, exclusive resort hidden within the mountains. Its perch offered the most captivating views. Buffy was speechless.
Seeing her awed expression, Angel smiled. He hoped she’d like it.
The attendants then escorted them to a reception area where a young woman greeted them.
Smiling she extended her hand, “Hello Mr. Rayne. It’s a pleasure to have you at Strawberry Hill again.”
“Hello Nikki, it’s good to be back. I believe you know my cousin.” She then shook hands with Lindsey, “And this is my very special guest, Buffy.”
Shaking Buffy’s hand she asked, “May I offer you some refreshments before we embark on the tour?”
“I’m fine, thank you. Lindsey?” Angel gestured. When Lindsey declined Angel then looked at Buffy.
With all eyes focused on her she responded, “Some water, please.”
“Certainly.” Nikki then led them to a nearby bar where she seated them and then poured Buffy a drink.

Shortly afterward, the small group toured the resort while Lorne remained at the bar.

Nikki led them around the 19th century style resort. They toured the garden paths and viewed the unoccupied cottages and recreational areas such as the negative edge swimming pool and spa. The resort proved to be incredibly beautiful and scenic.

As they walked, Buffy contemplated the young woman in their company. She was young, perhaps only a few years older than herself and from her accent, she seemed to be Jamaican. But what she noticed more than anything was the apparent familiarity between her and Angel. Granted, Nikki always referred to him by Mr. Rayne but their rapport certainly suggested something more. Could she be a former lover? Although it was possible, somehow Buffy doubted it. They seemed friendly but not intimate or even formerly so. Besides, having an old girlfriend as their tour guide just didn’t seem Angel’s style.
However, regardless of the nature of their relationship, they obviously knew each other. In Buffy’s mind, that meant Nikki couldn’t be trusted. For that matter, no one at Strawberry Hill could. Buffy was dismayed by this realization. Granted, she never expected that Angel would take her among people he couldn’t trust but she had hoped to at least see other tourists. But this place was so isolated and exclusive that there was hardly anyone else around. And even if there were, throughout the tour Angel kept her practically glued to his side. No matter what she did or where she tried to go, he was always next to her, watching her like a hawk. Even without the handcuffs, there was no way she’d be able to slip away without getting caught.

Eventually the tour ended at the restaurant where Angel had arranged to have lunch. As they entered, Buffy noticed that they were the only patrons in the restaurant save a couple dining on the terrace at the other end. Upon seeing them she was tempted to scream for help. It took all her will power to suppress it. But she had to. She knew the moment she tried anything Angel and Lindsey would intervene and perhaps hurt anyone who might try to help. She didn’t want to endanger anyone else. And given the isolation of the resort it wouldn’t be worth the risk.
Once they were seated, Nikki handed them the menus and gave them a moment alone. As she examined the menu, Buffy felt his gaze on her. Meeting his eyes she saw the warning. He knew exactly what she was thinking.
Attempting to ignore his penetrating gaze, she focused on the menu before her.

A while later, Nikki returned and took their order.
The following silence was suffocating, the tension rising by the second.
Fortunately it didn’t take long for the food to arrive.
As they dined, Buffy took in her surroundings while Lindsey and Angel casually discussed other sights of the island they planned to visit and how Lindsey might occupy her when Angel returned to work. They were talking about her as if she weren’t even there. Granted, it didn’t start out that way, they had actually tried to include her in the conversation but when she refused to participate, they went on without her. But one thing Angel refused to ignore was that she barely nibbled on her food.
Pausing mid-conversation, “Buff, you’re not eating.”
“I’m not hungry.”
“Well then why did you order so much if you didn’t want it?” He asked condescendingly.
“Because I felt like wasting your money.” She then crossed her arms daringly.
Angel calmly rested his wine glass on the table, frustration clearly etched on his face.
Lindsey curiously looked between the two, fascinated by the power struggle.
After a few brief moments, “Fine, waste my money and this wonderful food. I couldn’t care less about the money. But I know you’re hungry so don’t think I’m going to let you starve yourself in protest. Eventually you will eat something.”
“You can’t make me.”
“Maybe not right here and now but I’ll do whatever it takes to keep you healthy, even if that means strapping you to a bed and feeding you through an IV.”
“You wouldn’t dare!” She countered although the hesitation in her voice betrayed her uncertainty.
“Oh this is no idle threat, my love. I would and you know it so don’t test me.” His low menacing voice sending chills down her spine. How was it that he always knew just how to scare her?
Defeated, she grudgingly began eating. She had no idea whether he’d make good on his threat but the last thing she wanted was to be strapped to a bed and at his mercy. Just the thought was too much.

Watching her, Angel immediately regretted losing his temper. He knew she was testing how far she could push him and his reaction reinforced every horrible thing she believed about him. Now he was angry with himself.

Just as he was considering taking another walk, Buffy asked, “May I go to the bathroom please?” Her voice was so small and childlike he almost didn’t hear her. She was obviously on the verge of tears.
Now he felt even worse. All he wanted to do was kneel before her and beg forgiveness. But he didn’t. Instead he replied, “Go on, I believe it’s down the hall on the right.”
Silently she left the table.
Moments afterward, Angel and Lindsey exchanged knowing looks.

Wordlessly, Lindsey also left the table.

Exiting the dining room, Lindsey approached the ladies room. For a moment he wondered that she might have gone elsewhere but as he approached he could hear her sniffing through the door. He sighed. What was Angel doing to this girl?

Unsure what to do, he patiently lingered outside the door, waiting for her. But after a while he realized that loitering near the ladies room made him look like a pervert.
So taking a deep breath, Lindsey cautiously entered the bathroom. He was relieved to find that excepting Buffy, the bathroom was empty. Easily, he found the stall she was hiding in.
He knocked, startling her.
Then he saw her peep through the small space between the door and the walls of the stall.
“What do you want?” She asked angrily.
“I’m just checking on you, in case you’d like to talk.”
“Talk? Why would I talk to you?”
“Buffy, you don’t have to talk to me if you don’t wish but you’re upset. It might help to talk about it.”
“Talk about what? What it’s like to be kidnapped? How it feels to be handcuffed to such a monster? Would you like to hear what he did to me … how he …” she stopped, nearly choking on her tears.
“I know what he did Buffy and I’m sorry I can’t change that. This entire situation is just crazy but you can’t hide in here indefinitely.”
“Why not? Am I causing too much commotion, drawing unwanted attention to you and your cousin?” She asked tauntingly.
Keeping his voice low, ”As a matter of fact yes. But that’s not the point. Even if you make people suspicious, they probably won’t make the connection. Not many people here get news from the U.S. And even if they do figure it out, Angel will smuggle you out of this country just as easily as he smuggled you in. Don’t underestimate him.”
“Oh lovely, more threats from yet another Rayne.”
“I’m not threatening you Buffy. I’m trying to help you.”
“Yeah right and I’m here because I enjoy his company.”
Smiling at her sarcasm, he replied. “I don’t expect you to believe me. But I am. I’m helping you by warning you but I hope you heed my warning more than Cordelia did.”
That got her attention. “What do you mean? Y-You warned her?”
“Yes I did, on more than one occasion in fact. I knew her long before Angel did and when she met him, I warned her not to get involved. She didn’t listen. That seemed to be the pattern with us. Finally, I warned her not to betray him and again she didn’t listen. Granted, I know why she did it and I’m not blaming her for what happened but … I don’t want to see the same happen to you. This is no vague threat to keep you quiet. This is to keep you safe.” They were almost the very same words he’d said to Cordelia. In fact those were his last words to her. His failure to do so agonized him.
When Buffy didn’t respond, he took the plunge and pulled something out of his pocket. Then taking a deep breath, he held it under the door.
Buffy gasped.
In his hand was the note she’d left in the changing room at the boutique.
At her silence he went on, “When I went back into the store I checked the changing room to make sure nothing was accidentally left behind. You can imagine my surprise when I found this.”
Tentatively, Buffy took the note from him and stared at it disbelievingly. Her note. Fresh tears came to her eyes.
“I haven’t showed it to him and I don’t plan to.”
Initially his words didn’t register but as they penetrated her daze, she cynically asked. “And what do you want from me in exchange for that favor?”
“That you come out of that stall and destroy it. That you pull yourself together, smile and join us in the dining room. And finally, that you never try anything like that again.”
“That’s a lot to ask.”
“Well in exchange I’ll ignore my responsibility and loyalty to him. I think that’s a fair trade.”
After a few moments she opened the stall.
Then pointedly, she held up the card and walked over to the sink. There she ran water over it, smearing the eyeliner and then standing over the waste bin tore it into tiny pieces. She then washed her face to reduce the redness in her face and the puffiness around her eyes. Once she was presentable, she then smiled at him.
When he turned to leave she nervously asked, “Why didn’t you tell him?”
Smiling he replied, “Simple. You make him happier than anyone I’ve ever known and that’s important to me. Granted, you also stress him out more than anyone I’ve ever known but I imagine that’s part of the appeal.” Then touching her shoulder, “Believe it or not, he wants to be a better man for you but he’s unsure of how to do that. This is new territory for him and he’s getting frustrated, which is why he reverts to what’s familiar. But he’s trying, he really is. I didn’t show him your note because it would crush him and even though I know him better than anyone, I have no idea what that would do to him or how he’d react. I won’t do that if I can help it.”
Buffy was stunned by this revelation. She made Angel happy? Not that she cared but still, actually hearing it was quite a bit of a shock.
At her expression, he commented, “You really have no idea how much power you have over him do you?”
Unsure what to think, she shook her head dumbly. She had power over Angel?
Seeing her puzzlement, Lindsey took her arm and guided her out of the bathroom, “Come, we’ll talk about this later.”


Returning to their seats, Lindsey and Angel again exchanged knowing looks but this time Angel’s was full of gratitude. He didn’t know what he’d do if Buffy tried to run away. Once they sat, Buffy focused on her plate and tried finishing her lunch. Admittedly, Angel was right, she was hungry.
Watching her, Angel felt incredibly remorseful. He didn’t like threatening her.

Once the meal was over, Angel rose from his seat and stood before her expectantly. Looking into his eyes, she knew he wanted to talk. When he held out his hand to her, she briefly looked at Lindsey. At his small smile, she took Angel’s hand and left the dining room with him.
For a short while they walked in silence as Angel led her to one of the more private gardens. Once he found an ideal spot, he guided her to a nearby stone bench and gestured for her to sit.
Buffy had no idea what to expect. Was he going to assault her? Would anyone hear her scream?
Determined to keep her cool, she sat on the bench and looked up at him, waiting.
What he did next was the last thing she expected.
Reaching out, he caressed her cheek and for several long moments just silently stood before her, gazing into her eyes. Then suddenly he knelt at her feet, kissing her hand adoringly.
“I’m sorry I threatened you. I’d never …” He stopped, unable to articulate his feelings. Then burying his head in her lap, tightly wrapped his arms around her.
Buffy was so taken aback that at first she thought he was attempting something kinky but as his muttered apologies became more discernible she realized that he only wanted to hold her. In fact, he was holding her so tightly that she could barely move.
Dumbstruck, she could hardly believe what was happening. Was this what Lindsey was talking about? Was this her power over him?
Hoping to appeal to him, she soothingly ran her hand along his shoulder. When he looked at her, she gently cupped his face and for several long moments held him there.
Looking into his eyes, she softly spoke, “Angel, please …this has to end.”
Gazing back at her, he cupped her face in response. Then softly, “I know … Buffy, I know. But I can’t lose you. I won’t.” Then tightening his grip even more, he tenderly kissed her hand as he gently rocked against her.

As the moments stretched out, Buffy found herself increasingly tormented by his raw need for her. The sheer intensity of it reverberated within her, bringing fresh tears to her eyes. She didn’t know what to say, what to do. It was all too surreal.
Surrounded by roses, lavender and jasmine, Buffy gazed up at the clear azure sky.
What was she going to do?

tbc ...

A/N: Before you ask, no, there will be no Buffy/Lindsay.

Also, Strawberry Hill is an actual resort in Jamaica so if you want to see some pics of where Angel would have taken Buffy, check out the link.

http://www.islandoutpost.com/StrawberryHill/photogallery.html

Finally, just letting you know that the description for this fic will be revised at some point. There were to be some Spuffy undertones but that changed when I decided to let Angel take Buffy to Jamaica. I'll revise it when the story is closer to completion.