just fic


Title: Betrayal, Deception & Forgiveness
Author: anne
Posted: 09-17-2002
Rating: NC-17
Email: anneeb4@aol.com
Content: C/A
Summary: I'm getting Angel and Cordelia out of the 'situations' that the writers put them at the end of S3
Spoilers:
Disclaimer: No, I haven't managed to buy or get control of ATS over the summer- it still belongs to Joss, Mutant Co & etc
Distribution:
Notes: Okay, the story is not done before the season starts. Sorry. Also, I noticed that I may of (most likely, pretty sure) screwed up about Justine. I seemed to have forgotten there was an ep- where we didn’t quite know who she was and that she interacted with the AI crew.- I forgot and I wrote more in lines as to the later eps where we knew she was a Holtz groupie.
Dedication: anybody and everybody that read my stuff before and took the time to say nice things. Thanks.


Part 8

Less than a week later

Cordy ran giggling through the sewers her hand tugging a slower moving amused vampire. Angel didn't know what she was laughing at, he hadn't said anything remotely funny, even by his standards, since they snuck out of the hotel in the middle of the day but he did enjoy seeing Cordy happy.

"Come on, Angel. I know you're quicker than this- vamp speed."

"Then I'd be dragging you. What's so funny?"

She stopped a big smile still on her face. "I feel like I'm a teenager again, sneaking with my boyfriend for some no-no fooling around."

"Did that a lot did you? And just who were you doing this 'no-no' fooling around with?" Angel cocked a brow encircling his arms around her waist.

Cordelia scrunched up her face a sad look flashing across her face. "Actually, not at all. My parents never seemed to care where I went. Didn't have to sneak." Cordelia bit her lip. "Xander was probably the closest to sneaking around, but that's only because my parents thought he was beneath me. Hence, a lot of closets." Cordelia shrugged. "But, I bet this is what it would feel like." She smiled.

"Cordy,” Angel said softly.

"Pfft. Angel, I'm not suffering inner-turmoil over my parents inattention. Kind of grateful for it actually. Had they been more involved with my life, I actually may have to deal with them now and,” she shivered, "I just don't think that they would understand my new lifestyle. The closest thing to a demon or apocalypse that they would understand is the IRS and a stock market crash and higher purpose for me- a trophy wife to some young/old corporate work-alcoholic-asshole. Can we say 'eww' AND boring."

"Then I guess, I'm kind of grateful too - otherwise, I'd have to kill the 'young/old corporate work alcoholic asshole."

"You're silly."

Angel shrugged. If a young/old corporate work alcoholic asshole or anyone else for that matter tried to take Cordelia away from him- Angel would kill. "Maybe, but you were definitely silly, dating Xander- can I say 'eww'."

"Pooh, you just don't like him because he hated you and stop saying 'eww'."

"No. And I think that's a good reason and that he was a moron."

"Xander had moron tendencies but he wasn't a moron. He could actually be sweet," she scrunched her face," that is until he did the tonsil dance with Willow while I was getting my stomach pierced. Hmmph. Maybe he was a moron."

"Told you," Angel grabbed Cordelia pulling her to him. "Sweeter than me?"

Cordelia narrowed her eyes. "If I say yes are you going to get all sour puss and growl?"

"If you say no, I'll just growl and show you how not sweet I am."

"Oh," Cordelia considered. "No, then," giving a sly smile and wink," guess you'll have to show me," she pulled away running from the vampire.

Angel stood letting her gain some distance, then took off, grabbing her up. Cordelia laughed as he growled exaggeratedly into her neck.

Still giggling, Cordelia lifted Angel's face to her, "Love you, only you, always," she said her tone suddenly soft and full of want.

This time Angel's growl was real and low vibrating throughout his whole body, titling her head to give his lips more access. The hand that cupped her ass moved bunching up the long denim material of her skirt, trying to find the flesh. Angel stumbled then took staggered steps forward as Cordelia shifted, allowing his hand easier maneuverability.

Cordelia broke the kiss as her back hit the wall as Angel's hand found her center. "Angel, we should…," panting.

"Shh," he growled reclaiming her lips, his fingers delving into the moisture he found. Angel’s other hand clutched at Cordelia’s hips trying to swing her legs around his waist as he continued to stroke and tease.

Angel left her lips to bite and nuzzle at the surrounding skin of Cordelia's neck causing Cordy to gasp. Cordy's head felt back as her breathing became rapid and the heat traveled up her skin, along with a dizzy feeling of pleasure. "Angel," she repeated in between her pants.

"Shh," Angel whispered, his fingers entering her depths again, his thumb flicking in an unbearable rhythm against her clit.

"Oh god," Cordelia gasped into his mouth as the dizzy feeling took over her body and she became lightheaded as the world exploded behind her eyelids.

Angel continued to caress, soothing the trembling contractions of her muscles, his kisses becoming soft pecks around her face.

He leaned up, still holding her close, tenderly placing her on her feet, adjusting her panties and skirt.

Cordelia stood still pressed up against the wall, blinking at the vampire. "Angel,"

"Better than a closet?" his lips quirked in a satisfied smile.

Cordelia slowed her blink to a stare, pushing herself off the wall. "You are such a little boy sometimes, I'm going to get you."

"Good, because we got to hurry." He laughed, but wasn't kidding. Angel’s erection was pounding against his zipper, begging to be free.

***********

"Angel, Cordelia, very nice to see you again. The room is.... nevermind," Anita looked at the pile of money Angel had shoved in her hand and the door of the enchanted room that had just slammed shut. She shook her head praying for her furniture.

"So, you were going to get me?" Angel yanked off his jacket and then shirt.

Cordelia leaned up on the door, pulling her boots off. "You are so in for it." she promised.

"Really." He cocked a brow.

Barefoot, Cordelia lunged, her weight pushing Angel on to the bed. "Uhuh." Her hands quickly releasing his belt and fly. She studied the freed organ that sprung up towards. "Uhuh," Cordelia leaned in to embrace the swollen tip with her lips.

Angel fell back on the bed, his fingers tightening in between her strains of hair as Cordelia sucked and took him further into her mouth. Low groans and growls emerged from his throat, his hips thrusting pushing him deeper. Angel groaned louder grabbing her by the shoulders pulling her up over him. "Clothes." He grunted annoyed at the top and skirt Cordelia still wore. "Zipper," she slapped at the vampire's hand that went up to yank the top off. Angel growled and with a tug on the zipper tossed the shirt on the ground. "Buttons?" he started to pluck at the skirt. "Snaps." Cordy corrected breathless. Angel raised his brows and yanked and sent the skirt flying to the floor. Angel's hands went to Cordelia's hips lifting her over him and pushing her down onto his cock at the same time her panties were ripped from her body.

Cordelia closed her eyes as the breath left her. She started to move rocking jerking to accept all of him. Angel groaned his hands reaching up to the lace-covered mounds, his fingers searching. "Back" Cordelia moaned helpfully.

Angel looked up, shaking his head, moving his hands from the front to reach around for the back clasp to the binding fabric. Once freed, Angle leaned up taking a breast to his lips as his fingers found the other nipple to rub and tease.

Cordelia brought her upper body parallel to Angel's, creating a rhythm with her hips. Neither had long to go before they cried out, holding each other tight.

After a moment, Cordelia looked up. "You didn't have to tear my panties again."

Angel brushed at her hair. "There were in my way and you won't let me tear anything else."

"Hmmph, I'll remember that."

"Cordy," smiling.

"Hmm."

"You broke the table again."

Cordelia's head shot up looking at the table that had fallen at her lunge. "Stupid place for a table."

***********

"Already?" Cordy whined at the repeated knocks on the door.

Angel rubbed at her back. "Seems so," he sighed. The knocks sounded again as a shrill ring went off somewhere in the vicinity of the floor.

"You get the door, I'll get the phone." Angel grumbled grabbing for his pants and searching for his coat.

Cordelia grunted and looked around for the sheet. Once wrapped, she opened the door. "We're coming, Geez, hold your water."

Anita peeked in through the opening. She shook her head as she saw the bed. Cordelia followed her gaze. "It's not our fault. You didn't repair it, just glued it back together. Hmmph." she complained shutting the door.

Cordelia went to look for her clothes and the manacles as Angel nodded into the phone, pulling on his shirt.

"So," Cordelia asked after he hung up.

"Wesley, it seems Carol Jones is getting anxious, the boyfriend showed up again last night. Wesley wants us back and wanted to know where we were."

"Nosy-man, Hmmph, well at least his timing was good." Cordelia scrunched her face to the manacles in her hands and the broken bedposts. "Angel, these things don't work."

"We had to be sure." Angel shrugged.

"I just think you like to be tickled."

"I just think you like to tease."

"Yeah, but you never let me finish." pouting.

"That's because you tease to well," Angel grabbed her kissing her quickly.

"Hmmph. Hey, the dresser is still standing." Cordelia frowned. "Do we have time?"

"I wish. Come on, time's up and Wesley's waiting."

"He can be such a spoilsport sometimes."


Part 9

A few more days later

Fred and Cordelia were sitting on top of the Plymouth watching the spectacle in the middle of the dark street.

Their client, Carol Jones, the distraught woman who was so scared of her zombie boyfriend, had just finished swinging her purse and anything else she could get her hands on at Angel, Gunn and Wesley, trying to keep them and their weapons away from her boyfriend.

“I don’t think she’s going to pay us.” Fred bit at her thumb.

Cordelia pulled out a white envelope from her jacket. “Got it before we embarked on this asinine plan, remind me in the future that Lorne should read all of our clients first, make them sing a tune or something.”

It had taken a few more days from Wesley’s phone call for the group to actually come up with a viable plan that would draw out Carol Jones' stalking dead boyfriend. Carol had given her full approval when told. Now she seemed to have changed her mind.

“Yeah, then this might not have been such a shocker, glad you got the money though, she doesn’t seem to be happy with the guys, right now.” Fred acknowledged.

“Love?” Cordy shrugged. “That’s why we need Lorne.”

The plan had worked that was it seemed to work until it actually looked like Angel would kill the zombie evil boyfriend. Then Carol got all upset and started attacking the vampire and then Gunn and Wesley.

“But, she said she was scared of him.” Fred shook her head as Carol Jones ran to cuddle the crumbled form of her dead boyfriend. The zombie was whining and crying into Carol’s blouse declaring his undying-dead love.

“Lorne again -as she failed to mention that she was the one that killed him.” Cordelia shook her head and slipped her feet to the ground.

“He doesn’t seem very mad about it.” Fred followed.

“Sick love?” Cordy shrugged. “You know, I don’t think we have to give them a ride back. They’re in bizarre sick denial love let ‘em walk.”

Fred nodded in agreement. “Hey, are you hungry, do you want to go out for pizza?”

“I really need to go to my apartment and pick up some things.” Cordelia took the lead towards the men of Angel Investigations, all standing dumbfounded their weapons hanging uselessly in their hands just staring at the woman hugging and kissing the zombie.

“Guys,” Cordelia called.

Angel turned with one last look at the couple- he headed for Cordelia and Fred. Wesley and Gunn followed.

“She hit me.” Angel practically whined.

“That girl’s got a wicked swing with that purse, what’d she have in it bricks?” Gunn rubbed at his shoulder.

“That is extremely disconcerting,” Wesley looked back over his shoulder. Carol Jones and her boyfriend were walking hand in hand down the street.

“They’re in love,” Fred shrugged, gently patting Gunn’s shoulder.

“He’s dead. She killed him.” Angel huffed.

“You’re dead.” Cordelia smiled.

“NOT that dead, that’s a decaying walking corpse. Eww.” Angel shivered.

“Angel, don’t ‘eww’.” Cordy shook her head.

“Why not?”

“Man, she’s right, it just sounds really funny coming from you and not in the HA HA kinda of way.” Gunn agreed.

Angel scowled looking at the other’s nods that accompanied Gunn’s statement.

“I can ‘eww’ if I want to- and that is ‘eww’.” Pointing to the retreating couple.

“Come on, Angel. I got the money.” Cordelia held up the envelope.

“You did?” Angel’s eyes lit up. “All of it.”

“Yep.”

Angel happily hugged Cordy.

Gunn looked to Fred and Wesley. “Have you’ll noticed that Angel and Cordy have been way into the money lately. Sure, Angel’s always been cheap and Cordy concerned with getting paid. But, she’s been getting cheap and that’s just not normal.”

“Maybe they’re saving money for a vacation or something?” Fred shrugged. “But, you gotta admit, Cordy taking over the past due accounts has worked. We finally got paid for the jobs we did when they were away.”

“Yeah,” Gunn acknowledged.

“Hey, do you’ll want to go get Pizza?” Fred asked.

“Sure.” Gunn nodded. “Wes, man?”

“Please, Wesley.” Fred smiled.

Wesley studied Gunn and Fred. He’d have to accept that they were a couple. It still hurt, but surprisingly not as bad as it had. He nodded. “Angel and Cordy?”

“Cordy said she had to go pick things up at her apartment. If she doesn’t go, Angel won’t.”

Gunn made a grunt in agreement. Wesley just stared after the couple in question.


Part 10

“She hit me, Cordy, a lot.” Angel grumbled following Cordelia into her apartment.

“Get over it, Angel.”

“But, I was saving her. What kind of gratitude is that?” Angel shrugged off his coat.

“Angel, you’re pouting.” She leaned up and kissed him.

“Am not.” He mumbled, pulling her closer.

“You’re my hero, okay.”

“Okay.” He smiled his lips descended again. The couple jerked apart at the repeated slamming of the bedroom door.

“Dennis,” Cordelia turned, puzzled at the opening and closing door.

Angel glanced around the room, his senses taking in the surrounding, cataloging all the usual scents, focusing on the unknown. “Cordy,” he pushed the young woman behind him.

“What?”

“Someone’s been in here,” the bedroom door stopped its movement, staying in the opened position. “Human.” Angel added.

“Dennis seems to agree,” Cordelia bit her lip, following Angel into the bedroom.

Angel scrutinized the room, his sharp gaze focusing on the object lying on the middle of the bed.

Cordelia followed his stare. “Is that what I think it is?”

Angel nodded, picking up the electrical equipment. “Recording equipment. Dennis.”

The ghost threw a pillow at a broken panel over the door and then the yellow pages flew onto the bed, pages flipping until reaching the page labeled ‘Pest Control.”

Angel growled heading for the door.

“Where are you going?” Cordelia’s eyes still focused on the equipment. It was creepy thinking that someone could’ve been spying on her in her bedroom if Dennis hadn’t been there.

“Lilah.”

“Of course, Angel, let’s go back to the hotel first. If Wolfram & Hart bugged me then they probably have also tried to bug the others.”

Angel jerked a nod. “Is this it, Dennis?”

The equipment floated the offensive material into the trashcan.

“I think that means yes. Thanks, Dennis.” Cordelia smiled to the breeze in the air.

***********

“Pineapple?” Gunn opened the hotel door, allowing Fred and the pizza box she carried to duck under his arm into the lobby.

“Cordy, likes Pineapple. I don’t understand it, either, but she’ll probably be hungry later.”

“Fruit ain’t suppose to be on Pizza, Wes man, you agree right?”

“I would’ve have agree,” Wesley followed the other two into the hotel, stopping when he saw the occupant sitting on the circular couch of the lobby.

“Connor?”

The teenager stood up.

“Is this good or bad,” Fred whispered.

“I hope good.” Gunn walked up with Wesley putting his body between Fred and the teenager.

“I was watching.”

“Yeah, we heard. What do you want?” Gunn asked. “Fred call Angel and Cordy, make sure that they’re at her apartment and not in a box somewhere.”

Fred blinked, scrambling to balance the pizza and grab at the cell phone Gunn held out to her.

“I didn’t do anything to him or her. I found this.” Connor stepped aside.

Wesley moved closer finally seeing the two crumbled bodies on the floor and the electronic equipment beside them.

Gunn stepped up quickly. “Exterminators- again, with their own bugs. No imagination.”

Wesley leaned down checking the men’s pulse. “They’re alive.”

“I didn’t kill them, they’re human.”

Wesley looked up. “Connor what happened?”

“Hey, Guys,” Cordelia and Angel ran into the hotel.

“Connor,” Angel stopped.

The teenager said nothing.

Angel moved slowly into the room. Angel stared at his son then went to the bodies on the floor. “What happened?”

“Connor, I hope, was about to explain in detail. But, it is obvious that they were here to bug the hotel and Connor prevented them.”

“Connor.” Angel took a hesitant step. Cordelia came up next to the vampire.

Connor took a deep breath. “I was watching, saw them come in. I’d never seen them before, but I had seen what they were carrying. It was the same as what he destroyed,” pointing to Wesley, “in that room.”

Wesley nodded. “Surveillance equipment. Connor, did you see if they installed anymore.”

Connor shook his head. “I followed them in they were going upstairs to his bedroom,” he pointed to Angel.

A sick feeling filled Cordelia’s stomach as she heard the boy’s reply. She debated internally for a moment, not wanting to start Wesley’s lectures or speculation, but she had to. She looked at Angel and threw down the equipment she had retrieved from her trashcan before leaving her apartment. “They tried to bug me too, Dennis disabled it and left it for us to find.”

Wesley rose. “Where?”

Cordelia looked to the ceiling. “Bedroom.”

“Bedroom.” Wesley repeated.

“Yeah, I know what you are thinking Wesley.”

“And you would be right, Cordelia.” Wesley shook his head.

Angel growled. “I’m going to talk to Lilah.”

“There is no need to Angel.” Wesley shook his head.

Angel glared at Wesley. “Scared that I’ll hurt her.”

“Angel. It’s unnecessary. We know why- and now they failed. What we need to do is get rid of them,” pointing to the bodies on the floor.

“We’re not going to question them.” Gunn asked. "And what do we know?"

“Wesley.” Angel growled.

“Angel, it’s obvious Wolfram & Hart have switched their focus to the possibility of Angelus emerging.”

“Angelus,” Connor stepped forward, his gaze hard and questioning.

“It won’t happen.” Angel growled.

“The possibility exists as long as you two,” Wesley pointed to Cordelia and Angel, “continue on the path that you’ve been traveling. Slippery Slope and all that.”

Angel, his expression cold, stepped towards Wesley. “It won’t happen. Stay out of it, Wesley.”

“I can not if you two refuse to acknowledge the danger.”

“Stop it, Wesley,” Cordelia moved in front of Angel. “We know the risks, okay. We’re not doing anything wrong or dangerous or slippery. Okay.”

“I wish I could believe you, Cordelia.”

“You can. Geez.” She shook her head vehemently.

“Then you won’t disagree that it would be best for you to sleep in your apartment from now on.”

Cordelia stepped back; her hand reaching to hold Angel whose low growl was vibrating in the room. “Wesley, you are overreacting. We’re not some dumb hormonal teenagers; we know what we’re doing. And I really don’t appreciate you implying that we don’t or discussing our sex life.”

“That’s just it Cordelia, there can be no sex life between the two of you.” Wesley retorted.

Cordelia swung around. “No, Angel.” She placed a restraining hand on the vampire. Angel hadn’t moved but Cordy could sense the anger and rage building up in his motionless form. She turned back around. “Wesley, just stop this- it isn’t the time.” She looked pointedly to Connor. The teenager’s body had tensed and his face had become stone when the name Angelus had been mentioned.

Wesley took a deep breath and finally nodded. “Charles, will you help me dispose of these,” he jerked to the still unconscious men.

“Sure,” Gunn said hesitantly, his searching gaze going back and forth from Cordelia and Angel.

Angel turned as his son grabbed at his arm. “Wesley told me. If Angelus appears, I will kill him, no hesitation, no mercy.” Connor vowed in a cold voice.

Angel stared at his son. “Good. Why did you come here?”

Connor refused to answer.

“Do you need anything?”

Connor slowly shook his head.

“Fine.” Angel strode down to the basement.

“Connor,” Cordelia held out her hand.

The boy stepped back out of her reach. “If you cause Angelus to appear, I will kill you. I should kill you both now.”

Cordelia blinked and stepped back.

Fred moved forward, the pizza box replaced with a tazer.

“Should, but won’t. That’s a good sign. Connor, if I cause it, you won’t have to I’ll already be dead. Angel will not lose his soul.”

Connor held Cordelia’s stare for a moment then pushed past the women out of the hotel. Cordelia closed her eyes and slumped down on the couch.

Fred swung the tazer to her side and went to sit next to Cordelia. “I trust you both.” She said softly.

Cordelia looked up from her clenched hands into Fred’s compassionate expression.

Cordelia forced herself to maintain eye contact. “Thanks, Fred.”

Fred placed a small hand on her friend’s arm. “I’ll talk to Wesley, maybe we can start researching for a cure. Cordy, why are you crying.”

Cordelia brushed at her eyes. “I’ve never really had a girlfriend before, you are a good friend, Fred, thank you.”

“Me either, well except MaryAnn in the fifth grade, we used to stay up all night telling secrets and blowing up the kitchen.”

“Uh?” Cordelia sniffled.

“She had this really neat chemistry set. It was fun until her hair caught on fire and she had go through the sixth grade wearing a wig. We weren’t really very good friends after that.” Fred shrugged.

Cordelia stared a moment then started laughing, giving Fred a tight hug.

“It wasn’t funny, though the wig did look funny.” Fred speculated. “I brought you some pizza, pineapples, are you hungry?”

“Not now, I think I better go talk to Angel.”

“Yeah, he wasn’t too happy was he, which is good….but bad.” Fred blew out a puff of air, “It’s really not fair.” She shrugged getting up.

“Yeah,” Cordelia whispered going to the basement.


Part 11

The total emptiness of the basement made Cordelia nervous. She should have known that he wouldn't be there. Cordelia sat cross-legged on the bench her head resting on the wall behind wondering what Angel would find out. She was tempted to go after him, but he was probably half way to Wolfram & Hart by now. Cordelia couldn’t believe that Wolfram & Hart wanted Angelus to appear. Little evil Polly had agreed that Angelus wasn’t their goal. Cordelia closed her eyes. The firm in all of they’re schemes and manipulations to hurt Angel had never tried to do anything to bring out Angelus. Were they just worried about the possibility, bugging them so as to be warned? Cordelia didn’t know. But Anita’s was safe. Cordelia shook her head. She felt guilty about lying to the others, but she couldn’t tell them. Wesley would never believe that it was safe; he would just accuse her and Angel of lying to the others and themselves. Cordelia hit her head on back of the wall. She looked towards the hidden entrance to sewers. Cordelia wished that Angel would hurry up and get back. She needed him.

***********

Lilah hung up her cell phone. She wasn’t looking forward to going home to an empty apartment. Damn. Wesley was a bastard but one she had been getting use to. Lilah grumbled out loud. She used him he used her- that’s was all. So, why did the fact that she felt like she was the only one scathed by their relationship make her mad. Oh right. He used her better, completely fooled her. It wasn’t any other emotion but pride that was hurt.

“Hello, Lilah.”

The woman started at the soft voice. Damn. She should’ve known better to come down to the parking garage without security guards. That last phone call reported that the surveillance technicians from inside the hotel hadn’t checked in yet. Of course, that meant Angel and company had discovered them. And of course that meant he would be visiting her. Damn.

“Angel.” She acknowledged refusing to show any fear to the vampire.

Angel laughed. “I can smell fear, you know, but nice try.” He glided up causing Lilah to stumble back against her car. He body overwhelmed the space hovering inches from hers. “So, not getting any,” Angel made a crude gesture with his hand, “and now you have to get off watching to see if I get any.”

“I…” she squirmed back trying to open the space between them.

“Was it a sanctioned assignment or was it for your own personal collection. Have a hankering to see me in action.” He growled, breathing close up her neck to her ear. Angel gave a sharp laugh at Lilah’s involuntary shivering. “Not just fear, I smell anymore, is it. What? Lilah, hoping to picture yourself in Cordelia’s place in my bed, wanting to pretend that it was your body my hands touched.” He whispered into her hair. "What would Wesley think? Oh right, he's not thinking about you is he."

Lilah jerked. Angel pulled her back, " You want to know here let me show you.” Angel dragged his hand up Lilah’s arm, caressing up her neck, his fingers gently teasing the skin. “Like it.” He smirked, “Ooh, I smell that you do, how about this then,” Angel tightened his grip, squeezing the flesh the teasing touch becoming a vice clamp around her neck, choking her.

Lilah gasped, bringing her hands up immediately to the steel hand clutching her neck. “Lilah, does Wolfram & Hart have any plans to try to bring out Angelus -spells, drugs, what not, because I’ll warn you- Angelus is always happy to be let loose, but he’s not big on gratitude. More of the bite, torture, kills the hand that feeds him type, you know.” Angel pushed releasing the woman to stagger against her car. He knelt down. “It’s your turn to talk, now.”

Lilah leaned back. “We don’t have any spells or drugs. I was just told to watch. The possibility exists if you and your girlfriend get too chummy. We just want to know.”

“Don’t worry, Lilah, you, Wolfram & Hart will be one of the first to know if ever does happen. It is true, that Angelus has a tendency to be ‘not nice’ to those I care about, but the flip side isn’t at ALL true.” Angel backed up, “Take that back to your handlers, and remind them that Angelus is not a vampire that they want to deal with. Remember, I’m the nice one.”

Lilah struggled up to her feet, taking large gulps of breath. At that moment, Lilah didn’t know who to hate or be scared of more, the vampire or little evil Oppie Taylor. This was such not a good idea. Her only consolation was that so far she hadn’t been successful on finding a way to force Angel to lose his soul. That was one failure, she was pretty sure would be in her best interest. Lilah turned to go back to her office. She would have to report this.


Part 12

“Hey Dennis,” Cordelia called from her living room. “Any more visitors.”

She shrugged as a soft breeze reassured her. “Good. When Angel comes don’t let him break the door again, okay.” She stripped trailing her clothes into the bathroom.

Another soft breeze touched her face. “Thanks.” Filling the tub. Cordelia sunk into the hot water. Cordelia settled back letting the water ease the tension that had sprung up in her body since the discovery of the electronic equipment.

***********

“Angel.” Wesley called as the vampire headed up the stairs. “Cordy, went home.”

Angel stalled in his ascent and turned back down the stairs. “Wesley, stay out of it.” He warned.

“Angel.”

“Wesley, you got what you wanted okay, Cordy’s at home, I’m here. Leave it alone.” Angel proceeded to the stairs.

“I think we should talk about this.”

“I don’t.” Angel shot over his shoulder disappearing up the staircase.

“Wesley,” Fred pulled at his arm.

“Fred, this is something we need to be concerned with.”

“Oh, lord, what drama did I miss now,” Lorne wandered in studying the stern faces of Gunn, Wesley and Fred.

“The return of Angelus.” Gunn said.

Lorne stepped back ready to run. “Here?” he squeaked.

“Charles,” Fred chastised. “Angel didn’t lose his soul.”

“Not yet.”

“He won’t. Trust them.”

“He doesn’t,” Gunn pointed to Wesley. “And Wolfram & Hart, obviously think it could happen, the only ones that don’t seem to be concerned are Angel and Cordy…. and you. Why’s that?”

“Because I trust them.”

“Fred, it’s not a matter of trust. I do believe that Angel and Cordelia would never intentionally do anything to risk Angelus. It’s just that they both have in the past shown the distinct ability for self-denial and at the same time blindness to everything else but each other and it makes me very concerned that Wolfram & Hart seemed to be focusing on those weakness that they both share.”

“Wesley, they can’t make them have ‘happy’ sex.”

“No, but if Angel’s drugged, the effects could result in Angelus.”

“But, Wesley that’s a danger that exists no matter what Cordy and Angel feel about each other.”

Gunn shrugged. “My girl's got a point, and Wolfgang and Co. Haven’t tried anything like that before. Well, except for the blood spiking, but that was aimed just at Connor.”

“Hold the fears and the horses,” Lorne held his hands up. “What’s the nasties with the law degrees have to do with this.”

“They tried to bug Angel and Cordelia’s bedrooms.” Fred explained. “We’re not sure why.”

“What, can’t they have their fantasies like the rest of us?”

“Angel and Cordelia aren’t having sex.” Fred said sternly.

“Always room for some hanky panky though.”

“Slippery Slope.” Gunn nodded.

“You guys,” Fred held up her hands. “This is stupid. Wesley, you agree that Angel and Cordelia wouldn’t do anything intentional, Wolfram & Hart haven’t used any type of drug before and no evidence that they are now. You’re seeing danger without any proof of it.”

“Proof of Angelus is dead bodies.” Wesley responded.

“God, would you focus on something other than Angel turning evil and killing people, first Connor, now everybody. Why are you so determined that Angel will become dangerous. You WERE wrong before.”

Wesley rubbed at his forehead. “And if I’m right.”

“Right, about what?” Fred argued. “Nothing has happened except Angel and Cordy finally admitted that they love each other. That’s a good thing.”

“Not if it…”

“Wesley, shut up.” Fred yelled.

Wesley blinked at the angry young woman. “Fred…”

“No, Wesley. Angel and Cordy love each other. Nothing’s happened. If you are so damn concerned that something will, then I suggest researching a cure for the curse rather than just lecturing them to stay away from each other or god forbid, telling them that they can’t love each other. STOP focusing on the negative, it’s hurting everyone.”

Wesley stared at the floor trying to think. Why was he so determined to believe that Angelus was just around the corner? He took a deep breath. Was it just that he needed to be right? He didn’t know. Wesley couldn’t trust his instincts anymore. But Fred was correct in that his attitude was hurting Cordelia and Angel. And truthfully, if he was right, there was nothing he could do to ensure Angelus would never return except stake Angel or….”I do have a copy of the original disc and…” Wesley trailed off thinking about the paper he stole out of Wolfram & Hart. It had contained the depiction of events that led up to Angelus being cursed with a soul. But that hadn’t been what drew his attention to it, he had known about that- but it also had information about the gypsies that he hadn’t known from the watcher files or from the copy of Jenny Calendar’s disc. “Fred, I will need your help on the computer.” Wesley nodded, his mind puzzling over the information that he had found, trying to think how it could be useful.

“Thank god,” Fred sighed with relief, following Wesley into his office.

“I either need to stay away or stay in, this walking into the middle of the drama is taxing to my normal cheerful personality.” Lorne shook his head. “Where you going?”

Gunn shrugged. “They’re researching, I’m going to count the tranq darts. Gotta be prepared.”

***********

Angel paced in his room glancing from the door to his balcony. He jumped from the window making his decision.

***********

Angel stood at the foot of Cordelia’s bed, watching the young woman huddled in the sheet.

Cordelia stirred, blinking up at the vampire. She didn’t say anything just patted the space behind her.

Angel took a deep breath. He hadn’t been sure when he found her gone from the hotel. He had been afraid that she was listening to Wesley’s warnings.

He slid into the bed pulling her close.

Cordelia grabbed his hand tightening it around her waist. “I didn’t want to deal with Wesley in the morning.”

Angel rubbed his face into her neck, soaking up the scent of lilac and sweet skin. “You changed bath oils.” He said softly.

“It was on sale, do you like it.” She squirmed in the mattress as Angel’s cool lips embraced the back of her neck.

“I told you everything but demon goo and honestly, I could deal even with that.”

“Well, I couldn’t,” she chuckled in her pillow. “So, what did Lilah have to say?”

Angel lifted his head and stared at the hazel eyes that peered up at him from the pillow. He shook his head. “Am I that predictable?”

“Yes.” She smiled.

“Not much said they had no spell or drug to bring Angelus out, just wanted to watch and be aware if it happened.”

“Evil Prevvies” Cordelia lifted her head to get a better look at Angel. “Do you believe her?”

“I don’t know. She was telling the truth about not having any spell or drug, but the reasons behind the surveillance I’m not sure about.”

Cordelia shifted her body, placing her hands on his chest. “Maybe we shouldn’t go to Anita’s again until we’re sure.”

Angel stilled forcing the anger down that seemed to magically appear whenever the slightest obstacle to his holding Cordelia sprung up. Cordelia hadn’t said no, she was asking. He clutched her hands tighter to his chest. “We won’t ever know for sure, not unless something happens.” Angel reasoned. “Anita’s is safe.”

Cordelia sighed. “I don’t want to give it up either.”

“We won’t. It’s safe.” Angel pulled Cordelia over him, holding her arms, forcing her to look at him. “It’s safe. I won’t give it up.” Angel said forcibly.

Cordelia held the vampire's stare. “Okay, we won’t.”

Angel nodded, allowing her to settle against him. Cordelia rubbed her face into his chest, hoping that they weren’t being as stupid as Wesley accused them.

Angel held on tightly, keeping her pressed to his body. Anita’s was safe, he repeated silently. They weren’t risking anything. Angel closed his eyes refusing to acknowledge that his need for Cordelia maybe clouding his reason, reaching a point beyond love and bordering on obsession. He increased the pressure of his grip only loosening when he felt Cordy’s slight gasp on his chest. “Sorry,” he whispered into her hair.

“Still got to breathe. Just a little,” she moved adjusting her head so it was no longer pressed against his chest but tucked under Angel’s chin, giving her pathway to air. “Okay, Mr. Wimple, squeeze away.”

“You’re to young to know that.”

“TV land. That’s my excuse, what’s yours Mr. My knowledge of pop culture ended at the turn of the last century.”

“Actually, I’m pretty good up until the disco age then I completely lost interest.”

“Who wouldn’t, sequins, big hair, shiny leisure suits and cheese galore?”

Angel pulled her back up to face him. “Cordy, the Enchanted Room is safe. I’m not just saying that.” Angel had to be sure she wasn’t just agreeing for him. He didn’t know exactly what he’d do if she did have doubts, pictures of chains and ropes popped up in his mind as violently as he tried to shove them away.

“Oh, here I thought you were saying it just to get me naked.” Cordelia rested her chin on her palm, her elbow resting on his chest.

Angel groaned. “I do want to want to see and feel you naked, but…”

“Angel, Anita’s did check out, it is safe and it did work- twice- soul still resting comfortably. Whatever Wolfram & Hart is planning now, it can’t be bringing back Angelus. Evil Polly didn’t want me to take your soul. They don’t want Angelus around either. That’s never been their master plan why would it change now. They’re just more paranoid than Wesley, that’s all.” Cordelia chose to believe it. Wesley had just got her freaked. But, she and Angel weren’t playing Russian roulette, they were having safe sex. Safe sex was allowed, pamphlets and posters said so and they were taking precautions.

Angel nodded, relief causing him to smile. “Okay.”

“Can we go to sleep now?”

“Yeah.” Angel pulled her close, shifting, spooning his body around hers. “Can you breathe?”

“Yes,” Cordelia rolled her eyes into the pillow, her smile hidden by the cushion.

***********

Cordelia was dreaming again. Angel was all around her, she moved to bring his body closer to her, she reached out, gratified to touch hard muscle. She moaned as she wiggled her hips forcing the contact between the bodies. She yelped as cool lips, teased along her neck and engulfed her. Cordelia woke up staring into Angel’s eyes, his hands under her t-shirt and hers on the bulge in his pants.

“Time to get up,” Cordelia scooted away.

Angel shook his head, grabbing her again, kissing her again, sucking the breath right out of her body. He released her. “Now, it’s time for me to go and you to go back to bed.” He moved off the mattress.

“Angel.”

“I should get back. It will be dawn in a few hours.”

“Oh, want to make sure your home before the parents know you stayed out all night.”

“Something like that.” He adjusted his pants and leaned over to kiss Cordelia again. “Go back to sleep. I’ll see you at the hotel later.”

“Okay,” Cordelia reached out to grab his arm. “Angel, tonight can we go to Anita’s, I know we just went but...I just....”

Angel knelt on the bed, bringing her back into his embrace, his mouth covering her question in an instant, his tongue interrupting her words, tasting everything hidden. The kiss gentled to small pecks as he got up. “Yes.”

Cordelia smiled as she sighed and curled back up in her bed alone.

Angel groaned with a look and left for his own lonely bed.

***********

Cordelia gasped as she shot up in bed, silent tears running down her face. She grabbed at the tissues that magically appeared. Goddamn Wesley, she crumbled a soaked tissue to the floor. Wasn’t it bad enough when she was dreaming of making love to Angel only to have him disappear in the deep depths of the sea? Now, she had to dream of Angelus.

Cordelia cringed, trying to shake away the memories of the dream. It was so damn clear. They were making love in the enchanted room. Making a mess of the sheets again, she felt every touch and pleasure that Angel could give her. It was beautiful and then…. Cordelia squeezed her eyes shut, trying to drive out the imagines of her chained to the bedrails and Angel’s beautiful loving brown eyes turning into dark soulless things. The smirk on his face made ugly in its danger interchanging constantly with the loving expression of Angel, making her not knowing when one began and the other ended. It was crazy and it was just a dream, she forced herself to remember, lying back down on the bed. She smacked the pillow repeatedly as she tossed and turned, the imagines refusing to go away. She shot back up, looking at the clock. It had only been two hours since Angel left. She didn’t care. She jumped out of bed, hurrying towards the door with a quick good bye to Dennis.

***********

Angel looked to his doorway as Cordelia entered.

He shot up immediately when he saw her tear-stained face. “Cordy?”

“I couldn’t sleep after you left.”

“Cordy.”

“Oh god, I’m sorry,” she waved her hands around in a windmill fashion still standing in the doorway.

Angel pulled the young woman into his arms. “What happened?”

“Dream, of course.” She shook her head. “It’s so stupid. I just couldn’t….”

“I’m here. I’m not disappearing.”

Cordelia pushed up. “It wasn’t that dream. New one, great uh?” Cordelia took a deep breath. “I blame Wesley.”

“Cordy.”

“Angelus. We were making love - then poof, you did disappear.” She buried her hands in her face. “It was so damn real.”

Angel buried her head into his chest. “I…Cordy,” he pulled her back, cradling her face. “I have my soul and I’ll keep it, but if it’s the idea of going back to the Enchanted room that’s making you so upset…”

Cordy shook her head. “It’s Wesley’s fault all those lectures. The room is safe. I know that, rationally. I just guess all this worry about Angelus made me have nightmares. I should go, parents and all.”

“No.” Angel pulled her with him to the bed. “Stay, I’ll.” He looked down to his naked state. “Put some clothes on.”

Cordelia gave a sad laugh. “Maybe we should hang a sheet up in between us.”

“To much work.” Angel stuffed his legs in the pants he had discarded earlier. “Come on, you need to sleep.”

Cordelia settled in close. “I’m sorry, Angel, I just was scared. …And needed you.”

“Shh, baby, I know what that feels like.” He tucked her in his arms, wrapping a leg over her. “I’ll keep you safe from those nightmares.”

“Okay,” Cordy yawned settling closer.


Part 13

Lilah looked at the report in her hand and the shredder. Wow. She was scared and she almost considered it. She leafed through the pages and pictures again. Who would've thought that useless demon snitch would hit pay dirt.

"Interesting reading, wouldn't you say?" Garfield Manny stood at her door with the identical file in his hand.

Lilah glanced, her smile as perfect as ever. "I see Loocus sent you a copy too." Lilah hid both her relief that she resisted the impulse to shred the documents and her fear at what they contained.

"It seems the couple of the Armageddon think they found a loop hole to the curse."

"The Brothel is protected by a no violence spell and the room is enchanted. No Angelus."

"Spells, enchantments. Lilah, we have the largest staff of witches, shamans, sorcerers in the world. I'm sure that something can be done. Good work putting Loocus on the case. I was wary of your choice at first, his record of giving valuable information is sketchy at best."

Lilah's false smile got wider. "Gut feeling."

"You have good instincts, Lilah, keep me informed."

Lilah nodded. She swung around in her chair gazing out over the city. She did have good instincts for self-preservation and they were screaming that this was a really bad idea. But, then so is going against the firm's goals. She had to find a happy medium that kept her alive.

***********

"Wesley, I think we should tell Angel and Cordy," Fred said pushing her glasses up as she peered at the computer screen.

"I don't want to raise their hopes." He responded his eyes still reading the pages.

"I think their hopes need to be raised." Fred said. "You said this could work."

"I won't know that until I get the book."

"Well, get the book."

"It's very rare, not easily gotten."

"Do you even know where a copy is?"

"I know where the original is." Wesley leaned back in his chair.

"Where," Fred jumped excitedly.

"Wolfram & Hart"

"Oh..." Fred glanced back up. "They have the alternate curse, do they know?"

"Doubtful. The reference I found in Angel's file was obscure; I only saw it because the gypsies name wasn't included in the Watcher Diaries' of the event. The book of Malochav's life was cataloged in a separate and unrelated field of study. Damn," Wesley rubbed at his forehead. "I should have taken it while I was there."

"You did take a lot." Fred said encouragingly.

"Useless information for the most part, but that...."

"Then we definitely need to tell Angel, if we're going to steal it."

Wesley blinked. "Break in Wolfram & Hart to steal a book."

"Why not, their security kind of sucks. I mean, how many times has Angel been able to get in- alot and that's only since I've been here."

"True." Wesley nodded.

"Or maybe you can ask your old skanky bitch of girlfriend."

Wesley shot up at the disgust in Fred's tone.

"She wasn't my girlfriend."

"Whatever," Fred concentrated back on her computer screen.

***********

Cordelia forced herself to finish going through the file cabinet. She glanced around the office trying not to stare at the clock. Tick Tock Tick Tock, why couldn't the damn hands move any faster. At 8:00 she could legitimately go home, no matter what Wesley was doing. What was he doing? She stared at the closed door; he and Fred had been locked up in there for almost the whole day. Oh well, it least it kept him off her back.

She wanted to go down to the basement and train with Angel, but Gunn was down there cleaning weapons. There was something weird about Gunn and cleaning solutions. Oh well, it was probably for the best, once down there, she would want Angel to help there, then touch her, then kiss her, then...Why didn't that damn clock move any faster. She only wasted a minute whining to herself.

Cordelia went back to the file cabinet. 8:00 she would go home, 10:00 Angel would retreat to his room. 10:05 he would be at her apartment. By 10:20 they would be naked in each other’s arm. She could wait. Cordelia threw down the file in her hand as her whole evening just got screwed.

She strode to Wesley's office door, banging. "Vision." she yelled, proceeding to the stairs, grumbling. In a really bizarre way she missed the pain, the pain guaranteed that Angel would be up and running and holding her. "Vision." she yelled down the steps.

Cordelia barely got to the middle of the lobby, when Angel's arms came around her, stroking her, studying her face with concern.

"No pain, remember." She smiled, leaning a little closer.

"Habit, I guess," Angel pulled her in tighter.

"Ahem." Wesley said from the doorway.

"I’m going to hit him," Cordelia whispered as she pulled away.

"Not before I kill him." Angel whispered back.

"Our evening is screwed."

"It won't take long," he whispered letting her go. "I'll be quick."

Cordelia shook her head and turned to everyone that is gathered. "Very mean, very deadly, very ugly with a spiked tail, razor claws and teeth, body armor and yearning to eat every person on the pier."

Wesley ran to his books at hearing the description, flipping to a page. "This?"

"That be it." Cordelia shook her head again.

"Oh, Tas-Klars can be very difficult to kill." Wesley commented.

"Tonight, it will be easy," Angel grabbed for the book. "It's got a head, it will come off quickly." He strode to the weapon's cabinet and took out his largest broad sword.

Gunn studied the picture. "This bad boy calls for big Bertha, good thing I just cleaned her." He patted his large two bladed axe affectionately.

Cordelia leaned over to Fred. "Doesn't that worry you just a little." She urged to the handsome black man fondling his shiny weapon.

Fred shrugged. "It's harmless and it makes him happy. You should see how he gets grout out of the shower, sparkling."

"Handy." Cordy shook her head.

"Well, shall we go." Wesley said bared down with his own large axe.

"Okay," Both Fred and Cordy went to the weapons cabinet.

"You're not going," all three men said at once.

Both women swirled and faced the men. "We aren't?"

The three men backed up at the glares shooting their way.

Angel took a tentative step forward. "Cordy, I know you can fight, I do. You fight very well and can get all glowly which is impressive as well as helpful. But, see, if you're there I might get worried, because I admit I can be a chauvinistic jerk and well, if I'm worried then it just may take me longer than I want to rip this thing’s head off."

"That's so sweet." Cordy smiled running up to kiss the vampire, yanking at his ear. "And so full of crap, but it is sweet," she whispered.

Gunn immediately stepped up. "Girl, you are one smart hot mama, gadgets and sharp things galore, very impressive as well as helpful. But, see, if ..."

Fred ran up slapping Gunn upside the head. "Shut up, go and be careful." rolling her eyes.

Gunn stumbled back. "How come it worked for you?" He shot over to the grinning vampire.

"It's in the delivery and I'm sweet." Angel whistled towards the door.

Wesley shot a look at the vampire. "Why are you whistling?"

"Because, off too work I go. Shall we?"

Wesley stared at the vampire. "Since when did you get a sense of humor?"

"Since, you lost yours." Angel walked out.

Wesley turned to stare suspiciously at Cordelia.

"What? You're blaming his bad jokes on me?"

"Angelus had a sense of humor."

"He also killed people not big ugly demons. No dead people." Cordelia huffed.

Wesley considered then left.

"Will he ever give it up?" Cordy yelled to the now empty room except for Fred.

"He is a little anal about the subject, but it will get better," Fred assured. "Promise." Fred wanted to tell Cordelia then what Wesley had been working so hard on. But it was Wesley's work and she wanted him to be the one to tell Angel and Cordy. Maybe then they would see that Wesley really wasn't just being a prig but was really trying to help them.

"Sure, is there ice cream? Do you feel like comfort?" Cordelia asked.

"No, but I can always eat ice cream." Fred nodded.

"Two spoons and a carton, let's go." Cordelia headed for the kitchen. She might as well as eat herself into a comfort coma. No matter what Angel hoped, she was pretty confident that their evening plans were screwed. But, if what she saw in her vision was right, it would be worth it. Still, she needed ice cream.


Part 14

"Damn," Angel growled as he ducked and dodged the charging demon. This wasn't going to be as quick as he hoped. The beast's armor was almost impenetrable. Every swing of his sword bounced off with barely a mark. Wesley and Gunn's axes weren't doing much better. Both men were also ducking and trying to find a weakness. Angel reared back to charge the large demon hoping to take it to the ground. He winced and flew from the force of the demon’s back swing. Angel slowly crawled up against the wall. Both Wesley and Gunn were also struggling to their feet; Angel could smell their blood flowing before he saw their torn shirts. Angel winced again his own wound. Okay, he was really pissed. There no way Cordelia would agree to go with him to Anita’s not with this gapping wound or Wesley and Gunn being injured. She would want to baby him, them. He was going to be stuck in the hotel tonight. The only bright side was he was pretty sure she would ignore any disapproval from Wesley and stay with him. Still, he was more than just pissed at the evil interfering demon. She’d probably make him wait two days at least. Angel growled his frustration and growing rage released his demon, he ran to the other demon, leaping in the air twisting his body to lay a solid double kick straight at the demon’s head.

Angel rolled and twisted jumping back on his feet, hurtling his body again into the demon, plummeting with strong blows causing the demon to teeter unsteadily. Both Wesley and Gun crept closer with their weapons raised. In the same motion, both swung their axes towards the beast. Wesley’s landing slicing the chest and Gunn’s gouging the back. The demon howled at the combined attack. Angel pushed in again with his blade wounding the beast in its stomach, only to be slashed in the back by the demon’s long tail. The lethal tail continued on its path striking Wesley and Gunn leveling them to the ground with its spikes.

The demon stalked towards Angel it’s claws flashing and tail snapping. Angel scrambled to reach for his sword to parry the oncoming blows.

Suddenly the demon lurched back, howling again. Angel limped to his feet, seeing his son land square on the demon’s back Connor’s knife shoved to the hilt in its neck. The demon twirled in circles its claws and tail trying to reach the burden on its back.

“JUMP, CONNOR, NOW,” Angel yelled, his sword out.

Connor shot a look to his father, but did as he said, rolling and swiftly getting to his feet.

Before the Demon had a chance to get its bearings, Angel swung a perfect forceful stroke through the demon’s neck.

Wesley and Gunn scrambled on the ground, their hands on their injuries, to make way for the crashing body.

Angel watched in satisfaction as the head went flying landing in a dumpster.

“Hole in one, man, not bad.” Gunn stumbled to his feet, coughing as he spoke.

Angel called to his son who had started to retreat back into the blackness of the night.

“Connor, you helped kill it, you can help dispose of it.” Angel walked over to the demon and started to hack.

Gunn wobbled over. “Hey, at least the head’s already in the dumpster, that’s the really gross part.” He swung his axe at a limb.

“I truly dislike this part,” Wesley stumbled up to join the rest.

Connor watched it all for about minute. “I’ll have is my knife.”

“Then carry.” Gunn shoved an arm over to the boy and pointed to the dumpster.

“Why do we have to clean it up,” picking up the arm and tossing it away.

“This world doesn’t do well with dead demons lining the street,” Wesley shoved another limb at the boy.

Angel picked up a leg and swung, his aim sure. “It’s the unglamorous part of being a champion.”

“There’s a glamorous part,” Gunn said picking up the last piece. “Having you been holding out on us?”

Angel looked to Gunn and Wesley, “Are you all right?”

“Dandy,” Wesley winced, holding his wounded torso.

“I’ll live to see another one of the big uglies I’m sure,” Gunn coughed, leaning his arms on his knees.

“Connor, Wesley,” Angel went to help Gunn to the car.

Once Wesley and Gunn were settled in the back seat. Connor looked at Angel. “You’re hurt too.”

Angel wondered at the boy’s tone, he almost sounded concerned, but maybe he was Connor did pretty much save them all. “I’m alright.”

“Because if you’re hurt, I can drive, I’ve been watching people drive. I can do it.”

“Whoa, man, no, whoa,” Gunn leaned up on the back seat. “Super kid, okay, but he can’t drive.”

“I’d have to agree,” Wesley added. “He doesn’t have a license, think of your car Angel.”

“Hell, that, think of us poor injured folk in the back.”

Wesley hit Gunn. “The car has more clout.”

“Right, think of the car, you just got her washed AND waxed.”

Angel stuck his hand in his pocket jingling the keys. Connor had made an effort and Angel really wanted to reach out to him. But his car? “Connor, driving isn’t as easy as beheading a demon or jumping from roof top to roof top, or staking a vampire, it takes a tremendous amount of skill, skill that one must learn under the watchful eye of a teacher and you must start small, with a less complicated automobile. So, no. But, it you really want to learn we can practice using Gunn’s truck.”

“Whoa, did he just call my baby dumb?” Gunn shot a look over to Wesley.

“I believe so. Really, Charles, it isn’t like your truck hasn’t seen better days.”

“I’ll have you know that every dent is a memory and badge of valor. I sold my soul for my baby.”

Wesley jerked towards the black man. “You’re serious.”

“Hey it was a long time ago, I was young and…..”

“And stupid. For a car?”

“Truck.”

“I won it back, double or nothing.” Angel added helpfully.

“The truck.”

“No my soul and actually lost, Mr. I know how to gamble cuz I’m really old’- a three, I still can’t believe it.” Gunn shook his head.

“You got your soul didn’t you.” Angel huffed.

“Angel, you gambled your soul.” Wesley asked shocked.

Angel waved away the question. “Jenoff is dead isn’t he?”

“Because of Cordy and her stake and an angry mob.”

“She was pretty great wasn’t she? But it was my plan, she just knew what I was thinking, she can do that you know, amazing and it was my idea for the mob.”

“Not one of his better plans.” Gunn shrugged.

“I’m glad I missed it.”

“No you aren’t.”

Wesley shrugged, the wistfulness in his eyes not completely hidden. ““Can we please go now, I believe I’m starting to bleed on your complicated leather, Angel.”

“What?” Angel quickly got into car. “Connor, in the trunk a blanket. Give it to him.”

Connor was still just staring at the vampire that was his father, Angelus, a hated demon and killer that had over the course of a several minutes seemed neither demon-like nor champion-like. He was more like…. that word that he heard Cordelia use- a dork. Now he thought he knew what she meant. His father looked odd, definitely not like he just beheaded a demon. He wasn’t even sure what they were talking about, and he really didn’t think that they should be smiling about the possibility of losing souls, but they were. He didn’t really understand but did what he was told.

Connor stood at the side of the car after handing the blanket to Wesley.

“Do you what to come home…. for at least a minute. I think there’s left over pizza, if you’re hungry.” Angel said.

Connor puzzled for another moment and shook his head, turning and running back into the alley.

“Damn. Should of let him drive.” Angel hit the steering wheel.

“No, you did the right thing.” Gunn nodded. “Can’t make up if we’re all wrapped around a telephone pole.”

“Angel, Connor broke just from watching to help, like he did the other night. It’s slow but working, I think. Now, can we go home, I believe my blood is soaking through the blanket.”

“What?” Angel peered into the rearview mirror searching for ruined backseat.

Gunn looked over at Wesley and the clean blanket. “What?”

Wesley rolled his eyes and pointed to the back of Angel’s still stretched neck.

“Right, hey, Angel, I think I’m bleeding on this fine leather, too.”

“No, stop it, use the blanket.” Angel quickly started the car.


Part 15

Cordelia popped up from the counter, the spoon hanging in her hand when the lobby door opened. “Angel, guys.” She went running to the door, Fred two feet behind her.

“Get to the couch all of you.” Cordelia ordered as she ran to get the first aid kit. “Who needs to go first?”

“Me,” Angel raised his hand high in the air.

“Don’t be a baby,” Cordelia shook her head. “Gunn, Wesley?”

“Girl, I’m okay, I just….” He winced as Fred gently pulled the material from his wound.

“That doesn’t look good Charles,” Fred blinked.

“Fred, here, start wiping and disaffecting,” handing the other woman some gloves and gauze.

“Wesley, lift up,” Cordelia ordered.

“Really, I’m alright, Cordy,” Wesley protested.

“You said you were bleeding all over my car,” Angel called out.

“I got better.” Wesley shoved at his glasses.

“Better my foot.” Cordy studied the two slashes on Wesley’s chest. “No stitches, though.” Cordy patted at the blood. “Wesley, you know, you really do have a nice chest, Fred….”

Fred looked over. “Uhuh,” she shoved at her glasses. “Maybe you should go take a shower.”

“WHAT?” Wesley said in shock, Gunn and Angel in surprised anger.

“Calm down, I was just observing.” Cordelia shot a look to Angel, while Fred just giggled.

“Well, stop, and hurry up, I’m really hurt.” Angel whined.

Wesley grabbed at his shirt, clutching it to his bare chest. “I can finish from here.”

“Okay.” Cordelia slipped off her gloves and walked over to Angel. “Let me see.”

“No.”

“Angel, stop being a baby. You said you were really hurt.”

“Why didn’t you come to me first,” he said lowly. “And why were you looking at Wesley’s chest.”

“First, you are a vampire therefore less likely to die from blood loss, infection or go into shock and second, that was were his injuries were. As long as you’re talking and acting like a baby, I don’t get freaked. Now, let me see.”

Angel begrudgingly lifted his shirt. “I still hurt.”

Cordy traced the area of skin around Angel's chest wound. Angel looked up at her silence. He grabbed her hand, “I’m okay.”

“You’ll live, or whatever,” she shrugged. “But, a nice warm glass of blood and bed, for all of you.” She ordered to the other men.

“I ain’t doing no blood.”

“Tea will be fine for me.”

“Idiots. Go upstairs, Angel, I’ll get you your blood and finish there.”

Wesley looked up as Angel went to the stairs and Cordelia to the kitchen.

Fred leaned down. “Don’t say a word.”

“I wasn’t.” Wesley said.

Continue on...