At eight that night, Angel rang Buffy's door. The door opened revealing Buffy in a simple black top with a gold flower pattern adorning the side and a pair of dark blue jeans.
"Hey, you", Buffy greeted.
"Hey", Angel said leaning in and giving her a peck on the lips.
Buffy stepped aside to let him enter.
"These are for you", he said as he handed her a bouquet of roses.
"Oh, these are beautiful".
"So are you".
"Well, points for flattery".
"That's it?"
"Well, play your cards right and you might just get more", Buffy teased as she moved closer to him.
Angel smiled and gave her a kiss. Buffy eagerly returned it.
"I've made reservations for us at 8.30 so we should probably go now", Angel said as he released the kiss.
"Oh, okay. Let me just go grab my purse".
They arrived at Teal shortly after.
"Why are we here? You made a reservation here?"
"You'll see".
Buffy frowned.
"Angel, fess up."
Angel didn't reply. He just went out of the car. Buffy did the same.
"Angel, what have you got up your sleeve?"Buffy asked as Angel took her hand.
Buffy didn't budge.
"Baby, you're gonna have to trust me. Come on", Angel said, dragging Buffy towards the club.
When they entered the club, it was dark. Buffy could barely see anything.
"It looks closed. Angel, are you…"
"SURPRISE!"
Buffy literally jumped back and into Angel's arms. Willow, Xander, Giles, Cordelia, Oz, Alice and both of Angel's parents were standing around the pool table.
"Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you…"they started singing.
Buffy was smiling from ear to ear. She never expected this. Angel went to her cake and lights the candles.
"Happy Birthday Tooo Youuu", they sang.
"Make a wish and blow out the candles", Willow squealed.
Buffy did as told. She then hugged her friends.
"You guys did all of this for me? I thought we're meeting tomorrow."
"Actually, Angel did. We just had to say 'surprise' and of course bring a present", Cordelia added.
Buffy turned to Angel who was smiling from ear to ear.
"Thank you", Buffy said kissing him.
"Do we have to see this?"Cordelia mocked Buffy and Angel.
"Yeah, we have presents to give", Xander added.
Buffy and Angel sheepishly smiled as they pulled away from each other.
"Okay, gimme", Buffy said.
"Gee, have some manners", Cordelia replied.
"My present; do you have it?"
"Yeah, it's right here", Cordelia said handing her a wrapped silver box.
"It's costly so you better like it", Cordelia added.
Buffy simply rolled her eyes.
She opened the package to see a crimson sweater with her initials at the top.
"Wow, it's nice"
"Nice? That's all you gotta say?"Cordelia interrupted.
Buffy glared at her and said,
"I like it. 'Thank you', Cordelia."
She turned to Xander and said her thanks as well only more sincerely to him.
"Happy Birthday, Buffy" Rachel said as she and Cole stepped forward to embrace her.
"Thank you. I didn't expect you to be here".
"Well, we wouldn't want to miss it. It's your big day", Cole added.
"Here, this is for you". Rachel said as she handed her a small package.
"Mr. and Mrs. Sremmus, you didn't have to."
"Nonsense. It's your birthday. How could we come and not bear gifts?"
When Buffy opened the package, she saw an exquisite silver necklace with a diamond encrusted 'B' as the locket.
"Oh my god, this is beautiful. I can't accept this", Buffy said.
"Why not? It's not nice enough?"
"God, no. It's the most beautiful thing I've ever seen".
"Then, what's wrong with it?"
"I…"
"When Rachel and I saw it, we just knew we had to get this for you. Please accept it", Cole said.
Buffy relented.
"Thank you".
"Erm…Buffy, I didn't know what to get so, I got you a gift certificate from Bloomingdale's", Giles said, handing her the certificate.
Bloomingdale's is one of Buffy's favorite places to shop.
"Giles, thank you", Buffy said embracing him.
"Buffy, this is from me and Oz", Willow said handing her a rather larger package compared to the others.
They gave her a pair of boots that Buffy absolutely loved. Then it was Angel's turn.
Angel pulled Buffy to the middle of the dance floor. The rest of them looked on.
"Um, this is for you", Angel said revealing a small velvet pouch.
Buffy took out the content to see a ring.
"It's been in my family for generations. It's called the claddagh ring. The hands represents friendship, the crown represents loyalty and the heart represents love. Wear it with the heart pointing towards you; it means you belong to somebody. Like this", Angel explained revealing his left hand which had an identical ring on his middle finger.
"He didn't buy her anything? That's cheap", Xander remarked.
"Ssshhh", Willow scolded, trying to listen to Buffy and Angel.
As a matter of fact, all were trying to listen except for Xander, of course.
"Angel, it's beautiful", Buffy remarked as she accepted the gift.
"It's always in a pair. It's a custom in my mum's family that we wear it when we find the one we love and give the other to the person we intend to wed."
'Did he say wed?' Buffy thought to herself.
"Wed?"Buffy timidly asked.
"Buffy, I am so in love with you that I can't see straight. You bring the smile to my face, the light in my heart. I'm very excited when I'm about to see you and it's heartbreaking when it's time for us to part. I don't think I can live without you anymore. Today, in front of people that we care and love, I'm asking you to be my partner in life and in love. You'll make me the happiest man by being my wife".
Angel then took out a velvet box and got to one knee. Buffy stood there looking at the exquisite diamond ring in the box.
Angel continued,
"Buffy Anne Summers, will you marry me?"
Buffy was so happy that she was speechless. She could feel tears forming in her eyes.
"Yes! Yes, I'll marry you!"
Angel slipped the ring on her finger, got up and kissed her with all his might. He then embraced her as tears started falling from Buffy's eyes. The rest watched with excitement and happiness in their eyes.
"Oh, gosh, I'm tearing up", Buffy said as Angel helped her gently wiped her tears with his thumb.
The DJ that Angel hired especially for that night, started to play a romantic tune. All of them danced. Angel was holding Buffy very close as they swayed to the music.
"I love you", Angel whispered.
"I love you too".
Angel then kissed her forehead and they continued their dance in sheer silence as the love they had for each other shines through their eyes.
The wedding was set for the 21st March. Granted that it was racing against time but Angel and Buffy decided that they didn't want to wait long and they wanted to be married before the baby arrives plus Buffy wanted to do it before the 'bulge' made its appearance. Angel and Buffy had to juggle both their career and the preparation for their wedding. Though they had friends, family and various resources to help them out, it was still quite exhausting.
"What if we put your Aunt Wendy with Willow and the others?"Buffy suggested.
It was less than 3 weeks from the big day. The soon-to-be married couple was at Angel's place discussing the seating arrangement.
"I don't know. She's quite a fussy woman. Willow's table is here. She might complain saying, she's not able to see".
"Willow's table is at the third row", Buffy argued.
"I know but Aunt Wendy hasn't got very good eyesight".
"Well, we can't place her on the other tables on the first two rows. It's already filled up with our other relatives".
"Hmm…how about we switch her place with Jason's. I know he wouldn't mind sitting here since Oz is at the same table. They get along quite well."
Jason is one of Angel's cousins.
"But you said she doesn't like seating way at the front and plus the fact that she'll be placed quite near to your mum."
"You're right. When my uncle got married, she made a fuss about being in the front where everything was too near and too loud. My mum and Aunt Wendy don't get along very well either. They're cousins all right but when they fight; which they always do, it's like the war. "
"I don't know how to do this. If we place her at the third row, she might have difficulty seeing but when we place her at the front, she doesn't like it and her soured relationship with your mum doesn't help either. I give up", Buffy said tossing her pen on the table.
Angel was looking towards dead end himself. Everyone's place had been set but a last minute phone call from his Aunt Wendy saying that she's coming makes everything grueling.
"Honestly, I think we should place her at the front, you know, being family and all, she might be offended if we placed her on the 'friends' table".
"But you said, on your uncle's wedding…"
"I know but hey, this is our wedding so it's our way and if she doesn't like it then tough luck".
"But, I don't want our wedding to have a commotion of any sort. I want it to be perfect", Buffy stated.
"It will be. Baby, we are doing the best we can but no matter how hard we try, there are going to be people who won't be satisfied."
Buffy thought about it and relented.
"Okay, so we'll put Jason with Willow and Aunt Wendy with your other relatives."
"Yeah, that seems to be the best way. I'll talk to my mum and ask her to try to be civil to Aunt Wendy just for that day".
"Okay, so that's settled. Willow and Alice has already ordered the cake and Xander and Cordy is taking care of the food. Oz is in charge of music. Your parents are helping us overlook everything. Am I missing anything?"
"None that I can think of".
"Okay, I'm supposed to go dress shopping tomorrow. When's yours?"
"Am I supposed to wear a dress?"Angel asked jokingly.
"Haha…not funny, Angel" Buffy said monotonously.
"I'm sorry. I was just trying to make you laugh".
"Wrong timing, honey".
"Come on, baby. Everything will be fine. Relax a little".
"Relax? How can you possibly ask me to do that? This is our wedding, Angel. Wedding. It happens once in a lifetime or maybe more but I only intend on doing it once. It's the most important day of my life and you're telling me to relax?"
"Well, if we hired a wedding planner like I suggested, it will make things a lot easier".
"It's just a waste of money and besides, I don't believe in this wedding planner thingy."
"Why not?"
"Angel, a wedding symbolizes you and your partner. It symbolizes us. It's a joining of two hearts. Weddings are a personal and delicate matter and I'm not gonna let some stranger run my wedding who will indirectly be advertising themselves. This is my wedding, not some cheap gimmick to get them more business. "
"They're not running the wedding, baby. They're just helping you and giving you professional tips and suggestions to make sure our wedding runs smoothly".
"Exactly my point".
"Huh?"
"Angel, you just said it. 'They're just blah blah blah giving you professional tips and suggestions'. Professional being the key word here, Angel. It's a job to them. They're giving you suggestions based on their profession and maybe past experiences of other couples. But I don't need the best cake decorator or the most popular caterer in town. I don't want people going in saying that some Jane or Dick had the same caterer or same music at their wedding. I want ours to be different. Perfect. Don't you want it to be perfect? That people will come in and say that this is Angel and Buffy's wedding. Not just another wedding."
"Of course I want it to be perfect but honey, I'm getting married to you. What's more perfect than that? I respect what you just said and I agree that weddings are personal and delicate but I don't want you to be overly stressed. You need to remember that you have a life inside you and whatever you feel affects him or her."
Buffy sighed.
"I see your point. But I just want it to be…"
"Perfect, I know", Angel said before Buffy could finish her sentence.
"And it will be. I assure you it will be perfect", Angel continued, giving her a reassuring smile.
Buffy smiled back. She then looked down. Invitations have been sent out to friends and both close and distant families; mostly from Angel's side. With Buffy's growing tension with her parents, she wasn't sure if inviting her uncles and aunts would be wise. Especially if her parents won't even be there.
"I didn't send an invitation to my parents", Buffy said.
"Erm… I did", Angel nervously replied.
Buffy looked up, surprised.
"You did?"
"Yeah. I'm sorry that I didn't ask you and I know you might be mad at me but Buffy, they're your parents. It's the most important day of your life, they should know".
"Angel, my father is a difficult man".
"I know but , how long is this going to go on? I know that you're upset with them but one party has to give in. If both parties are too egoistic to give in, then everybody loses eventually."
"I understand what you're trying to say but all I'm saying is I'm not expecting them to come".
"Don't say that".
"It's the truth."
"Maybe they'll prove you wrong".
"I doubt it".
Angel didn't reply. He didn't know what to say.
Things at the Summers' home deteriorated from bad to worse. Joyce and Hank were hardly talking to one another. When Joyce saw the wedding invitation in her mail, she couldn't believe her eyes.
' Buffy's getting married?' she thought to herself.
Joyce was brimming with happiness. She went inside to tell Hank the good news.
"Hank! Hank! Buffy's getting married! Our daughter's getting married!"
Hank, who was sitting on the couch reading a newspaper stood up upon hearing his wife's squeals. Joyce shoved the card to him.
"Buffy's getting married!"
Hank took a moment to read the card and then, he tore it apart.
"Hank!"Joyce exclaimed.
"I've told you. We no longer have a daughter".
"How can you say that? I admit that Buffy's made a mistake but no matter how hard you try to turn away from her, she'll always be our daughter."
"Joyce, we've been through this. You know my answer. I can never forgive her for what she did".
"What she did? What did she do, Hank? Make love to the man she loves? Do you know how many thousands of people have pre-marital sex? Some don't even end up together. If making love to someone whom you love before marriage is wrong to you, fine, so be it, but isn't it our responsibility as parents to forgive our child for what she did? You told me yourself that we're her only sanctuary. Who else will she turn to if not us?"
Hank didn't say anything.
"She's getting married. This is the time she needs us the most. Who is going to give her away to Angel if not you? Who's going to help her with the guest list and dress if not me? Who's going to help them with the wedding preparations if not us?"Joyce continued.
"That's no longer our concern. We're not going. That's final!"
He then walked out of the living room. Joyce just sat there, defeated.
Buffy was at Giles', training. They decided to take a break after working out for about an hour.
"How are the wedding preparations coming along?"Giles asked.
"Good. It's safe to say that everything's settled. I just need to go dress shopping tomorrow."
"Do you have a dress in mind?"
"I kinda do but I'll just see tomorrow".
"I can't believe you're getting married. You were just a child when I met you. It seems like yesterday".
"Please! I was hardly a kid. I was seventeen and very matured by then".
"Still, now you're 26. You're getting married soon and you'll become a mother too. I can't believe you're the same quirky girl I met 9 years ago. Time flies by and you don't even notice it".
Buffy smiled.
"Giles, I have a favor to ask you", she said seriously.
"What is it?"
"Um, I was thinking, can you…walk me down the aisle?"
"Um…you want me t…to walk you down the aisle?"
"Yes".
"Um…is…isn't your father going to be there?"Giles asked unsurely.
"No".
"You didn't tell him?"
"No. Angel did. He sent them an invitation. I haven't heard from them and the wedding is less than 3 weeks away".
"Maybe it got lost in the mail?"
"Giles, get real. What are the odds that that's possible?"
Giles didn't answer.
"Knowing my father, I know he'll never come", Buffy added.
"You may be wrong. They might surprise you".
"You don't know Hank Summers like I do. He's not gonna come".
Again, Giles didn't know what to answer.
"Giles, you're the closest thing to a father to me. I know that it may be weird for you but it would mean the world to me and…"
"Buffy…"Giles said, holding up his hand to stop her torrent of words.
"I'd be honored to walk you down the aisle", he continued.
Buffy hugged him, which surprised Giles at first but he returned her the same gesture.
"Thank you. You don't know how much this means to me".
Giles smiled.
Finally, the 21st of March came. Angel was pacing in his room waiting for the time to be called.
"What's taking so long?" he said.
"Dude, cool down man. It's just about ten more minutes before show time", Jason replied.
"What if something happens in this ten minutes?"Angel continued.
"Nothing will happen".
"What if Buffy changed her mind?"
"She won't. Now sit down".
Angel was worried but did as was told.
Buffy's situation was no different.
"Will you be still or change your pace or something? It's making me woozy", Willow commented to Buffy who was 'surprisingly' pacing.
"I can't. I'm so nervous".
"You're gonna ruin your dress", Cordelia reminded her for about the fifth time that day.
"Cordelia, be quiet! Here I am trying my best to compose myself and all you keep telling me is 'you're gonna ruin your dress'! Can you be a lil' more supportive here?"
"I am being supportive! If you could just calm down for five seconds, you would realize that I've been trying to be supportive!"
"Oh, does 'Buffy, don't sit down. You'll get your dress ruined' or 'Don't move around so much. You'll wrinkle your dress' your way of being supportive?"
"What about, 'Everything will be fine, Buffy' or 'You'll do great' or 'You'll be okay'…Huh?"
"Yeah, once out of the gazillion times you told me not to ruin my dress!"
"Oh, don't exaggerate. I can't believe you're so… so…tacky!"
"Me? Tacky? Who are you to call me tacky when you're the one…"
"SHUT UP!"Willow suddenly said.
"I am sick and tired of the two of you bickering like 12 year olds. If you don't have anything nice to say to each other, then don't say anything! Buffy, today is your big day, so don't ruin it by arguing with Cordelia! And Cordy, just for one day, could you try not to argue with Buffy?"Willow continued.
"But…"Cordelia's defense only fell on deaf ears as Willow said,
"No buts. Now listen, Buffy, I know you're nervous and I understand that you're getting anxious but in a few minutes you'll be married to the man you love more than anything in this world so can you please just for this few minutes try to calm down?"
Buffy nodded. Willow then turned to Cordelia.
"Cordy, I know that you're trying to help but your 'help' makes it sound like you're more worried about the dress than trying to make Buffy feel better".
Cordelia stayed silent.
"Alright, let's just all now calm down. Take a deep breath and in a few moments, Giles will be here to get Buffy", Willow continued.
That few moments happen to be just about five seconds after Willow said it.
"Buffy, it's time", Giles said.
Buffy took a deep breath, composing herself for one last time before taking Giles' arm. Slowly, Buffy and her two bridesmaids along with Giles made their way to the altar where Angel stood waiting.
Angel nervously waited for the arrival for his bride. After what seems like forever, the song started. Everyone rose to welcome the bride. Angel was anxious to see the woman who gave him nothing but happiness and love. When she did emerge, Angel fell in love with her all over again. She was wearing a white halter style wedding dress that was adorned with small pink diamonds at the front. The bottom part had a very nice flair. Her hair was styled in a beautiful twist with a veil clipped on top of it that falls down covering her face. She literally took his breath away. Angel couldn't take his eyes off of her. Before he knew it, Buffy was already standing next to him.
"We are gathered here today to witness and to unite these two souls as one. Should there be anyone who doesn't consent to this union, let him speak now or forever hold his peace", the priest began.
They waited for a few moments before the priest continued,
"Buffy, Angel, you may face each other".
They did as was told.
"Angel, you may recite your vows", the priest added.
"Buffy, in my whole life, I never thought I could love someone this way but I do with you. No words can describe how deeply in love I am with you. I would be lying if I tell you that I'll never hurt you but I promise that I will always try my best to keep you happy and know that I'll be there for you always. With this ring, I give you all of me. I promise to protect you, cherish you and love you till the end of time".
Buffy could feel her tears coming but tried her best to control it as the priest said,
"Buffy?"
Buffy took a moment before starting,
"Angel, no words can convey how much I love you. You bring laughter and happiness into my life. You made me believe again. And at last, I'm no longer hiding; I'm holding your hand and I'll walk beside you. I am by your side. With this ring, our lives will finally begin. I promise to be there for you, to catch you if you should fall and I offer you love till the end of time".
Buffy's tears were already making an appearance by the time she finished.
The priest waited for a few more moments before saying,
"Do you, Angel Lee Sremmus take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, from this day forward as long as you both shall live?"
"I do".
"And do you, Buffy Anne Summers, take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health from this day forward as long as you both shall live?"
"I do".
"With the power vested in me by the state of California, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride".
Angel lifted her veil and kissed her softly but surely as Buffy could feel her tears falling. When their kiss ended, their foreheads touched for a brief moment as Angel gently wiped off Buffy's tears.
"Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you Mr. and Mrs. Angel Lee Sremmus", the priest said as the crowd applauded. Buffy and Angel made their way down the aisle, holding each other's hands, smiling to friends and loved ones.
At the reception, guests were all anticipating the arrival of the bride and groom. A few moments later, the newlyweds made their entrance that was applauded by the crowd. Angel was wearing a very light gray colored suit and Buffy was wearing a simple lilac evening dress that had a slit on the right side, exposing her slender leg. Her hair was let down but it was clipped at the side with a dazzling silver clip. Cordelia who was the 'emcee' for the reception welcomed them as they went around greeting their friends and loved ones. After much mingling, Cordy asked for the couple to open the dance, which they gladly did.
Angel held his wife close as they swayed to the music. Shortly after, other couples joined them.
From this moment,
Life has begun.
From this moment,
You are the one
Their eyes met. No words were needed. The love for the other shines through their eyes as Buffy slowly smiled at her husband. Angel did the same.
Right beside you,
Is where I belong,
From this moment on.
From this moment,
I have been blessed.
I live only,
For your happiness.
And for your love,
I give my last breath,
From this moment on.
Angel brought his head forward and said to her in a voice that only both of them could hear,
"I love you"
"I love you too", Buffy replied.
Buffy then laid her head on his chest as Angel softly kissed her forehead before resting his head on top of hers.
I give my hand to you with all my heart,
I can't wait to live my life with you,
I can't wait to start.
You and I will never be apart,
My dreams came true because of you.
From this moment,
As long as I live,
I will love you,
I promise you this.
There is nothing I wouldn't give,
From this moment on.
Buffy looked up again to find Angel's eyes looking into her own as they finished their dance in sheer silence.
You're the reason I believe in love,
And you're the answer to my prayers from up above.
All we need is just the two of us,
My dreams came true because of you.
From this moment,
As long as I live,
I will love you,
I promise you this.
There is nothing,
I wouldn't give.
From this moment.
I will love you,
As long as I live,
From this moment on.
The crowd applauded but Buffy and Angel were too caught up in their own world to even realize what was happening as they just stared into each other's eyes.
"Can I have your attention, please?"Cordelia announced about half an hour later.
Once she was sure that everyone was paying attention, she then started.
"Now, I would like to invite Mr. Sremmus, the groom's father, to say a few words", Cole made his way to the mike as the newlyweds looked on.
"Hey, guys. How's everyone tonight? I hope everyone's having a good time". After getting a few positive responses, he continued.
"Well, now, how do I start? Um…Angel, my son, my pride and joy. You have given us happiness and everything any parent has ever dreamed for. Your mum and I have been very proud of you but now, today, at this very moment, we are even prouder because you have chosen the most beautiful flower out of the million posies in the garden. When you brought her home that Saturday, your mum was actually scared that you and Buffy wouldn't last. No, don't get me wrong. We really liked you, Buffy. She was afraid that you might screw things up", he said, pointing to Angel.
A few giggle from the audience.
"But I told her not to worry. I knew my son. He loves this girl more than anything. He's gonna come to us and say, 'she's the one'. True enough, we're here today, celebrating your marriage. Now that you are married, you won't have to worry about your mum pestering you to get married anymore", the crowd laughed.
"Son, you have a wonderful woman in your life. Cherish her and love her. I wish you the best for your new life and…I love you son", the crowd applauded as Cole held out his glass of wine.
"To Buffy and Angel", he said.
The rest followed in suit.
A few months later, Buffy and Angel were moving into their new home (that they purchased shortly after their marriage) after moving out of their respective apartments. Their friends were helping them move.
"Careful with that box! There's fragile stuff in there", Buffy said to Xander who was carrying a box.
"You know, Buff, it would really help if you pick up a few boxes laying around outside. Us guys can't do it alone, you know", he replied.
"I would but can't. I need to navigate. You know, tell you this goes where and stuff".
Xander just huffed and continued picking up the boxes.
"Buffy! Your house is so gorgeous", Willow commented.
"Yeah, it's so much bigger than mine", Cordelia added.
"Thanks. This was the fourth house that Angel and I viewed that day but when we entered this house, it just screamed to us so we just bought it on the spot. The deal wasn't too bad either", Buffy said.
"Buffy!" Angel called from outside.
"Yeah", Buffy replied as she made her way out.
"Honey, these are our neighbors, Janet and Dan Wilson. Janet, Dan, this is my wife, Buffy Sremmus", Angel introduced.
"Hi", Buffy greeted them with a smile.
"Have you guys lived here long?"Buffy asked.
"Oh, not really. We moved here only about 2 months ago. We live right across the street", Jane replied.
"Oh, I see."
"Do you mind if we take a look around your house?"Dan asked.
"Oh no, not at all. Come on in. We have to warn you though; it's kind of in a mess. We haven't moved in the furniture yet", Angel said.
Together, they gave the Wilsons a tour of their new home.
"You have a very beautiful home", Janet commented once they finished touring.
"Thank you."
"I love that you kept the walls white. Makes your rooms look bigger somehow".
"That's the idea", Buffy replied.
Dan then looked at his watch and said,
"We'd love to stay and chat but we've got an appointment. Come by for coffee when you're free".
"You bet", Angel said as he shook Dan's hand.
"Nice neighbors", Buffy commented.
"More like nosy", Angel said.
"Honey!"
"What?"
"That's very rude. They were just trying to be nice and welcome us".
"Yeah, yeah. They better not come knocking our door at the wrong time".
"Hey, you guys", Willow called.
"We finished carrying all your boxes while you were talking to your neighbors and we're good to go", Xander said.
"Already? Don't you wanna stay? I'll order pizza", Buffy offered.
"Nah. Cordy and I have a dinner date with Cordy's parents tonight. We need to go get ready".
"Oz and I are having his parents over for dinner at our house tonight".
"Oh, okay then, maybe next time."
"Yeah, see you Buff".
"Thanks guys!"Angel said as they got in their respective cars and drove off.
"Well, looks like it's just us, baby", Angel said circling Buffy around her waist.
Buffy just smiled weakly.
"What? What's wrong?"
"Nothing", Buffy replied.
"No, you have 'something' face", Angel said.
"No, it's just that I miss my parents. They didn't even come to our wedding".
"I'm sure they have their reasons".
"Stop trying to make me feel better. I just wish I could say what they just said. 'I have a dinner date with my parents' but I can't".
"Well, if you want, we could always visit my parents?"
"They're not in town, remember? They're visiting your aunt".
"Oh, right. Well, we can make a candlelight dinner for two then maybe some 'night activities'…hmm?"Angel said kissing her neck.
"No, I'm not in the mood. Besides, I got patrol. We'll just order pizza later, okay?"
"Okay", Angel replied.
He was disappointed but tried not to show it.
Week after week passed by and Buffy's belly was already making itself known. Their home was finally fully furnished and Buffy was making her way down to make breakfast for Angel who was taking a shower.
"Baby!" Buffy called.
"Yeah".
"You want your eggs scrambled?"
"You don't bother! I'll do it".
Buffy rolled her eyes in annoyance. She hated that Angel treated her as if she's incapable. She wasn't, she was just pregnant. Buffy ignored him and went ahead and scrambled his eggs knowing that he usually eats it that way.
About 5 minutes into cooking, Angel came down wearing just sweats with his wet hair dripping all over.
"Buffy, I said I'll do it".
"Angel, I'm pregnant. I'm not incompetent".
"I know but you need your rest. So, you go and wait at the table and I'll cook breakfast. Okay, baby?"
She just rolled her eyes. There was just no point arguing.
That day, Buffy met up with Willow for lunch.
"I can't take it, Will".
"Take what?"Willow asked.
"Angel".
"Okay. You lost me".
"I love him and everything but lately, he's been treating me like as if I can't do anything".
"Maybe because you're pregnant?"
"That's just it. I'm pregnant. It's not as if I can't do anything".
"He's just concerned, I'm sure".
"Well, he can stop being concerned".
"Buffy…"
"What? I can't stand it, Will. I feel so useless. I come back and do some housework, he's not happy. I want to cook for him, he insists on buying dinner. Nowadays, when I come home from work, all I do is sit and watch TV."
"Maybe you should try talking to him?"
"I tried but all he does is tell me to just sit down and not do anything. Sometimes I feel guilty. I see him do everything while I just lay down on the couch".
"That's what he wants".
"But…"
The sound of her cell phone ringing interrupted Buffy. She flipped open and saw Angel's name flashing. Buffy rolled her eyes and pressed the answer button.
"Hello", she said.
"Buffy, where are you? I called the office and Alice said you went out. Are you okay? You hurt?"
"Angel, calm down. I'm having lunch with Willow".
"Oh, you drove there?"
"Yes, what's the point in having a car?"
"You should have taken a cab. Anything could have happened".
"Angel, nothing happened. I've been driving to work all this while and nothing has happened".
"You should have called me and told me you're having lunch with Willow. I could have drove you there".
"Angel, for the millionth time, I can drive, okay? Can you stop treating me like a kid?"
"Baby, I was just worried that something might happen to you".
"I know and I appreciate you worrying but sometimes you have to realize that I'm just pregnant. It doesn't mean I'm incompetent".
"It's just I've heard of pregnant women losing their babies or lives in an accident. It could have happen to you, honey".
"It won't. Don't worry so much. I'm okay".
"Alright. Anyway, I was thinking of ordering some Chinese for dinner. What do you think?"
"I can cook you know."
"I know but it would be better if you rest. So, I'll order Chinese with your favorite Orange Chicken and I'll see you at home?"
"Okay", Buffy sighed.
"Alright, see you. Love you"
"Me too. Bye".
After hanging up, Buffy sighed.
"So, did you tell him?"Willow asked.
"It's no use. He won't get it".
"Be patient. I'm sure things will work out".
"I hope so too, Will. I don't know how much longer I can take this".
"Honey, I'm home!"Angel said entering the house.
Hearing no response from Buffy, he walked into the living room hoping to find her there reading a book like she always do.
"Baby?"
Seeing nobody there, he went upstairs to the bedroom.
"Buffy?"
She still wasn't there.
Finally, he entered the kitchen to see her busy cooking dinner.
"Buffy, what are doing?"
"Cooking dinner. You go wash up. Tea?"
"Sweetie, I told you earlier that I'll order Chinese".
"I just thought it would be nice to have a home cooked meal. You haven't ordered, have you?"
"No, I thought I'd just order from home".
"Well, then, don't bother. The steaks and potatoes are about done. I'll go set the table. You go wash up".
"Buffy, the doctor said that you should rest. The baby…"
"The baby is fine. Honey, I just hope you'd stop worrying so much and stop treating me like as if I can't do anything."
"That was never my intention".
"That's how I feel".
"Buffy, I just worry about you and the baby, that's all. You have to watch what you're doing. The doctor said…"
"I know what the doctor said Angel because I was there. He said I should rest and not do heavy stuff but he didn't say to just sit around and do nothing. Honestly, I feel guilty when I see you do the cleaning when I just sit around".
"I'm just trying to make things easier".
"I know that but please don't make me feel like I'm just some kid who's incapable to do anything".
"I never meant for you to feel that way".
"But that's how I feel".
"I'm sorry. I'm just…"
"Worried. I know and I appreciate it".
Both of them stayed silent for a moment before Buffy said,
"You better go wash up. I'll set the table".
"Let me help?"
"No, you've done enough. Go on. I'll make you some tea".
Angel hesitated but went to the bathroom to take his shower.
The next day, Buffy and Angel went to Dr. Dolce office for Buffy's regular check-up.
"Good afternoon. Sorry for the delay. Had something to take care of. Have you guys waited long?"Dr. Dolce said as she came in.
"No, not really", Buffy answered.
"Okay, Buffy, how are you feeling?"
"I feel good."
"You don't feel any stomach pains or complications?"
"No".
"That's good. Would you lie down so I can check on the baby?"
"Okay".
Buffy lay down on the mattress prepared for her and Dr. Dolce proceeded to check on the baby with the ultrasound.
"All looks good. If everything goes well, you'll be seeing Angel junior in 8 weeks time", Dr. Dolce said after finishing with the ultrasound.
"Doctor, is it advisable if I…um, well, I'm a very active person. I have been um…doing some uh…"Buffy stalled, thinking of a word to replace 'patrolling for vampires'.
' I can't tell her that I'm fighting vamps at night. She's gonna think I'm nuts!' she thought to herself.
Buffy looked to Angel for help.
"Um, what Buffy's trying to say is…um, well…she's into aerobics kinda thing", Angel said.
Buffy looked at him weirdly. Angel just shrugged as if trying to say 'it's the best I could think of'.
"Aerobics?"Dr. Dolce asked.
"More like kick boxing", Buffy answered.
"Kick boxing?"
"You know, a little bit of punching and a little bit of kicking with some music added in?"Angel explained.
"I know what it is. You have been doing that?"Dr. Dolce asked Buffy.
"Yeah".
"You have to stop it."
"Stop?"Buffy asked.
"Yes. It could bring danger not just to the baby but to you as well. Any form of cardiovascular exercise is a no for you. You're well into your pregnancy. You should really take care of what you're doing and what you eat at this point of time. Have you been doing all this while you're pregnant?"
"Yes."
"You have to stop doing it until after you give birth".
"Stop it? Like I can't even do just a teensy bit?"Buffy asked.
"No. Buffy, you have to understand that whatever you do will affect the baby. I'm amazed that nothing has happened to you or your baby. Any other woman might have caused some damage to herself", Dr. Dolce continued.
'Well, I'm not any other woman' Buffy thought to herself.
"Well, thank you, Doctor", Angel thanked the doctor and helped Buffy from her chair.
"You're welcome. And remember, Buffy, no kick boxing".
"Got it".
Buffy and Angel made their way out, paid for the fees and walked to the car.
"Great. How am I gonna patrol?"Buffy whined.
"You're not. Didn't you hear what the doctor said?"
"But Angel, how can I not patrol? It's what I do. Besides, I've been doing it all this time and I'm fine".
"I know but the baby's getting bigger each day and you need to watch what you do".
"But what about patrol? What if someone dies just because I'm too pregnant to kill vampires?"
"I'll handle it. Giles and the rest of us…we'll handle it. You don't worry."
"I don't know if I can. I mean I know what's going on at night but I can't fight it because I…arrgh, I feel so useless", Buffy said, frustrated.
"You're not useless".
"I hate being pregnant".
"Buffy, how can you say that?"
"How can I not? It's just so frustrating. Ever since I'm pregnant, I can't do anything. I can't clean, I can't cook and now I can't even patrol? This is too much. This pregnancy thing is taking over my life".
"Baby, calm down. Look, I understand how you feel".
"No, you don't. Nobody does."
"Honey", Angel moved closer to embrace her but Buffy just moved away.
"Can we just get to the car and get the hell out of here?"Buffy said harshly.
"Sure", Angel said.
He was hurt by Buffy's word but understood that she was pregnant and she tends to be easily upset. Angel blamed the hormones.
Angel went to patrol that night alone after finally convincing a very persistent Buffy to stay home. He went by the usual place and dusted one vamp. It was a fairly quiet night. He then made his way to National Park. As he was walking, he heard a snap and rustle. He slowed down his pace and reached for his stake. He then turned and aimed the stake at the sound. He was met by shrieks. It was Giles with Willow, Cordelia, Xander and Oz.
"Angel, man, you scared me", Xander said.
"Sorry. What are you guys doing here?"Angel asked.
"The same could be said about you", Giles said.
"I'm patrolling".
"Where's Buffy?" Willow said.
"At home. It's not advisable for her to be patrolling for the time being. She's getting bigger and the doctor wants her to take full care of herself".
"I told her before but she wouldn't listen", Giles said.
"Buffy's stubborn. I had a hard time convincing her to stay home just now. She still insists on patrolling".
"I think it's best that we took over until after she gives birth", Willow said.
"I agree", Xander said.
"Hello?! What if we get killed?"Cordelia said.
Willow rolled her eyes and said to herself,
'Typical Cordelia'.
"We won't", Xander argued.
"How do you know that?"
"Honey, we have been doing this and look! Nothing happened to us".
"Well, Buffy was with us all this while".
"Well, we've got Angel. It's about the same", Willow said.
"But…"
"Look, Cordy, if you don't wanna help, don't help. You don't have to make such a big deal about it", Willow argued.
"Who asked you?"Cordelia countered back.
"That's enough. There's far more important things to be done than to argue amongst ourselves", Giles scolded.
The two of them quiet down.
"He's right. Let's just work together and get this over with", Angel said.
They patrolled around the park and dusted a few vamps lurking around. It was about eleven when they decided to call it a night.
"Well, looks like we've done our fair share of dusting vamps tonight", Xander said.
"I agree", Cordelia added.
"I don't", said a very masculine voice.
They turned to see a large demon. Its features were horrific. It had two bull-like horns on its head with a nose ring attached to its nose. Its fingers had claws that could probably tear a human apart and it had red skin. All in all, it wasn't a pretty sight. The whole gang was shocked and terrified at the same time.
"Who are you?"Giles asked.
"They call me the Purveyor", it answered.
"Good Lord", Giles said.
' Shit! Giles always says that when the danger is severe', Xander said to himself.
"Where's the slayer?" the demon inquired.
"Why don't you tell me why do you need to find her?"Angel asked.
"None of your concern, weakling. The slayer is destroying my stratagem. Destroying everything that I've built for almost a thousand years. The day was drawing near but she had to ruin it. But, there's still time. With the untainted and bona fide obliterated, my stratagem can work. Where is she?!"it roared.
"I'm not letting you near her", Angel said.
It took a step closer to Angel. Angel, though intimidated, stood his ground.
"Do you think you can stop me, feeble creature?" it laughed.
It looked at Angel once again and then realized,
"It's you. You're the mate; the slayer's mate. You also caused this. You will pay".
Without warning, it swung its arm and gave Angel a hard blow on his abs that left him sprawling to the ground. Xander, Giles and Oz tried to help but it was much too strong. The girls just watched in horror. Then, Angel saw the crossbow that Giles had dropped. Painfully, he reached for the crossbow, aimed it at the Purveyor and shot the arrow. It hits the Purveyor's shoulder. The demon was taken aback but the arrow had done very little if not, no harm to the Purveyor. It simply took out the arrow and snapped it into two.
"You fool! I can't be destroyed. I was brought here for a purpose. Until that purpose is served, nothing can harm me. Nothing!"
He started to draw in on Angel. Willow whispered to Cordelia,
"We need to get out of here. The demon's too strong for us".
"How?"Cordelia asked.
"Distract him", Willow replied.
"What?"
"Hey!"Willow screamed before Cordelia could react.
The Purveyor turned to face them.
"Yeah, I'm talking to you, you big, ugly demon!"Willow continued.
"Willow, what are you doing?"Cordelia whispered.
"Signal to the others to go".
"What? What about us?"
"Just do it".
"You think we're scared of you?"Willow said to the Purveyor as it drew closer to them.
Cordelia, trying to be as discreet as possible, signaled Xander using her eyes and gestures of her hands.
Xander nodded and slowly crept towards Angel and helped him up.
"You're nothing but a waste of space. I mean come on; you've probably lived for over a thousand years and tortured enough people to last you forever. Isn't that enough? Let other demons have their fair share of us. You unfair, stupid demon!"
Cordelia kept her eyes on the guys as Willow did her best to distract the Purveyor.
Once Xander gave her the thumbs up, she tugged Willow.
"We need to get out of here", she whispered.
"Oh gosh, look! He's gone", Willow said pointing to where Angel once laid.
Once the demon turned, Willow and Cordelia quickly ran towards the guys and together, they ran as fast as they could. It proved to be difficult for Angel who was still holding onto his abs. Halfway through, he collapsed.
Xander, noticing Angel, stopped and knelt beside Angel.
"Come on, you gotta run. The demon's still behind us and might be catching up anytime".
"I…I can't. It's too painful", Angel panted.
Xander, without thinking, placed Angel's arm around his neck and started pulling him up. Angel cringed at the pain.
"Come on, man. Try", Xander said.
Angel then tried to ignore the pain and started to jog as fast as his legs could take him.
Buffy could feel something was wrong but she couldn't place her finger as to what it was. She stroked her belly and paced around in the living room uneasily.
'Something feels off', she said to herself.
Suddenly, she heard the loud, continuous knock on the door. She quickly went to the door and opened it, revealing the gang and an obviously injured Angel.
"What happened?" she asked letting them in.
"We got attacked by a demon", Willow said as Giles and Xander helped Angel to the nearest couch.
Buffy sat beside Angel, pulling his shirt up to check the wound.
"It looks bad, Angel. We better get you upstairs. Oz, Xander, help me", Buffy said.
Angel placed both his arms around each of them and they slowly helped him walk towards Buffy who was leading the way. Once they got upstairs, Oz and Xander slowly placed him on the bed. Buffy helped him out of his jacket.
"I'm gonna go get some bandages", Buffy said.
"I'll get it for you. Where is it?"Oz offered.
"Um, in the kitchen. First drawer on the right, it's where I keep all the medical stuff".
"Got it".
"I'll help him", Xander said, leaving the couple for some alone time.
Once it was just both of them, Buffy carefully helped him out of his shirt and pants and helped him slip on a more comfortable sweatpants.
"It looks awful. Did you know what kind of a demon it was?"Buffy asked.
"It calls himself the Purveyor. It's really strong. It just hit me once on my abs and I feel like I've been pummeled by a dozen vamps", Angel said.
Now at the comfort of his bed, he was able to calm himself and talk normally though the pain can still be felt.
"The demon hit you just once and you're like this?"
"Don't worry about me. I'm more concerned about you."
"What do you mean?"
"The Purveyor…it was looking for you".
"So? I'm the slayer. It's natural for demons to…"
"No, this demon wasn't out for a normal killing routine. It's specifically looking for you. Said about you stopping his plans or something."
"What plans?"
"Not sure but I got a feeling it's not good. I'm worried".
"Well, we'll figure it out and we'll take him".
"No, he said he couldn't be killed until his purpose is served. Buffy, this demon is dangerous."
Buffy didn't reply. She just kept quiet but she had a 'look' that Angel knew all too well.
"No", Angel said.
"What?"Buffy said innocently.
"Not that look".
"What look?"
"Baby, I'm not a fool. I know that look. You wanna fight this thing".
"So what if I want to? Angel, look what it did to you."
"I'll be okay. It will heal. But if something happened to you…please don't do anything irrational".
"But it's what I do. I fight these creatures."
"Baby, no. Please, promise me you won't go and do anything until we really know the real deal about the Purveyor. Promise me?"
Angel said holding her hands in his. After a few moments, Buffy finally relented.
"Fine".
"Thank you."
"Got the bandages", Xander said, coming into the room.
"Thanks", Buffy said as she began dressing Angel's wound.
Angel hissed when Buffy gently touched the wound.
"Sorry", Buffy apologized.
About ten minutes later, Buffy finished doing his wound. She and Xander then left the room to let Angel get some sleep. They made their way downstairs where the rest were waiting.
"How is he?"Giles asked upon seeing Buffy.
"The injury looks pretty bad", Buffy said.
"The demon was strong. It just punched Angel and he went sprawling to the ground", Willow explained.
"Giles, what do you know about this Purveyor guy. What's his deal?"Buffy asked.
She was getting down to business.
"Um, I've heard of him and I've come across him in a book once. It calls itself the Purveyor. In simple terms, the Purveyor means the Bringer".
"The Bringer? The Bringer of what?"Willow asked.
"Chaos, havoc of all sorts. The Purveyor or the Bringer will cause chaos and destruction to a world", Giles answered.
"So, are we talking about an apocalypse here?"Buffy asked.
"Maybe. At this moment we're not sure of the Purveyor's plan or stratagem or so he calls. May be an apocalypse, may be not".
"We have to be sure", Buffy said firmly.
"Of course. I'll go back and read up on him. I'll see what I can find".
"Until then, I think all of us should lay low for a while", Xander suggested.
"I agree. Until we know what's what, it's best to stay in", Giles added.
"Okay", Buffy said.
"It's late. We should get going", Willow said.
Buffy ushered her friends to the door and bid them goodbye. She then went upstairs to see Angel soundly asleep. She slowly crept towards the bed and slid into bed, kissing Angel on his forehead before falling asleep beside him.
Angel awoke the next morning feeling like he had been run over by a truck. He tried to move but it was too painful. He turned his head to see his wife sleeping soundly beside him. As always, he stared at her. Carefully, he took one of his hands, and stroked her belly. The gesture awoke Buffy.
"Hey", Buffy softly said.
"Hey", Angel replied.
"How do you feel?"she asked.
"It still hurts but bearable".
Buffy sat up and slowly peeled the bandage. The wound still looked horrible but she could see that it was healing.
"Maybe we should go to the doctor's just to be sure", Buffy said.
"No, I'll be fine. I'm already feeling better than yesterday".
"Angel, we need to make sure that you don't have any broken bones".
"I don't. If I do, I would have felt it. I'll be fine".
"Fine; if you say so. I'm gonna go make some tea."
Buffy went downstairs to the kitchen while Angel laid back down on the bed.
At around eleven, Buffy was reading a book on the couch when she heard the doorbell rang. She opened the door to reveal Giles.
"Giles".
"Buffy, may I come in?"
"Sure".
"Where's Angel?"
"He's upstairs, resting".
"How is he?"
"He says it still hurts but he's healing".
"Good".
"Why don't you take a seat and I'll bring you some tea?"
"Yes, thank you".
Giles took a seat while Buffy went to the kitchen and fixed some tea.
Angel had heard the doorbell rang so he figured he'd see who it was. Slowly he made his way down.
"Buffy, I heard the door r…Giles", Angel greeted upon seeing his guest.
Giles turned to see Angel slowly making his way down the steps.
"Angel."
Giles then got up and escorted Angel to the couch before taking his own seat.
"I hope you're doing better", Giles said.
"A little."
"Have you consulted the doctor?"Giles asked.
"No. I don't think its necessary".
"But you should at least check for any internal injuries".
"It's no use Giles. He won't listen. No point arguing with him", Buffy said, entering the living room with tea.
"You should be in bed", Buffy said to her husband.
"I can't be there forever. It got stuffy".
Buffy rolled her eyes and sat beside Giles.
"So, did you find anything on the Purveyor?"Buffy asked.
"Well, I did some research and there was some mention of it in various books."
"And?"Buffy asked impatiently.
Giles fidgeted. He was nervous; Buffy could tell. Buffy knew there was danger.
"Giles, tell me what's wrong".
Giles hesitated.
"Throughout the research, I came across an apocalypse", Giles started.
"I'm not quite sure but this um…apocalypse involves the Purveyor and you", Giles continued.
"So? Don't all apocalypses involve me?"Buffy said.
"I know but it states that um…you…um…y…you…"Giles couldn't complete the sentence.
"I what?"Buffy pushed.
Angel could feel his heartbeat getting faster.
"It's written that you won't survive it", Giles said.
Buffy froze.
'This can't be happening!' Buffy thought.
"It's got to be a mistake", Angel said.
"I hope that it would be but it's not. I reread the book over and over again for hours trying to maybe see that it might be a mistake but it isn't."
"Try again" Angel demanded.
"I did. It's real. It's written in the Codex. The Codex is never wrong".
Giles summoned the rest of the gang over to Buffy's house to discuss the matter at hand. After telling them what he had told Buffy and Angel, they were just as surprised.
"Are you sure?"Willow asked.
"Yes", Giles replied.
Buffy was still trying to recover from the shock. She was silent throughout the whole time. Angel, sensing her uneasiness, threaded his fingers with hers and held it tightly. Buffy faced him with watery eyes. Angel's heart broke.
"Everything will be fine", Angel said calmly.
Buffy answered him with a slight smile. She knew he was trying to be strong for her but knew that he was really as scared as she was, maybe more.
"Is there a way out of it?"Cordelia asked.
"No. I'm afraid there is not. It states that Buffy will not survive this", Giles said solemnly.
"There has to be a way", Willow retorted.
"Willow, there isn't. I wish to god there was but there isn't. The codex clearly states that the slayer will die", Giles replied.
"I don't care. I'm going to search the net, books, whatever. There has to be some way", Willow said.
"Let me help", Angel offered.
"I second that", Xander said.
"Me too", Cordelia joined.
"I'm gonna need those books you went through", Willow said to Giles.
"Willow…"
"Giles, don't argue with me. I know you went through it for hours but maybe you missed some things that might be crucial."
"Well…"
"Giles please."
Giles relented. He swore that he knew there was no other way around it but if he did miss something that could probably save Buffy then it was worth a shot. They agreed to meet at Giles' the next day.
Later that night, Buffy was sitting on the vanity chair, absent-mindedly brushing her long locks and fearing of what will happen next. Angel came into the room to see his wife deep in thoughts. He went to her and touched her shoulders.
"Are you okay?"he asked.
Buffy didn't say anything but just shook her head. Angel slowly knelt down beside her and made her look at him.
"Everything is going to be fine", Angel, said.
"No, it's not. Didn't you hear what Giles said?"Buffy replied.
"We'll find a way".
"There is no way."
"We don't know that".
"Angel, please. Deep inside you know that there is no way. I'm going to die", Buffy wept.
Angel could feel his tears coming.
"Honey, please don't say that", Angel said.
"It's true."
"We'll find a way, I promise. We'll get through this together."
"I knew this would come. I always knew. A slayer seldom lives long. Giles had warned me since I was seventeen. I know this. This is my duty, my calling. I have to face this, alone."
"No you don't. You have Giles and your friends and me. We'll face this together".
"No. The slayer should fight her battles alone. The slayer is always alone".
"Not you. You have me".
"Angel, you don't understand. I have to do this alone. I'm gonna die alone".
"You won't die. I won't let you to die. Buffy, I vowed that I would protect you and I will. Nothing can harm you. Nothing will take you away from me."
Buffy didn't say anything. She just stroked her belly and smiled a little. She continued,
"One thing's for sure. No matter what happens to me, I'll make sure Angel jr. comes", she laughed.
Angel smiled.
"Will you promise to take care of our child when I'm no longer around?"Buffy said softly almost to a whisper.
"Nothing will happen to you", Angel said and pulled her into his arms.
Buffy cried harder.
"Ssshhh…nothing will happen to you", Angel repeated while stroking her hair.
"Angel…I…I'm so s…scared", Buffy sobbed into her husband's chest.
Angel felt tears running down his cheeks. He had never felt so helpless in his life.
The next day, as planned, they met the next day at eight. All were present except Buffy and Angel.
"Maybe they're on their way", Willow said when Giles told her only Xander and Cordelia had arrived.
After sharing some hugs, Willow and Oz took their place on the couch.
"Angel said that he's going home to freshen up before coming over", Cordelia informed.
"Alright. I have made some tea for us. It's in the kitchen. Help yourselves. I'm going to go get the books", Giles said.
"What is it with Englishmen and tea? Don't they drink coffee? I mean we're in need of caffeine in times like this", Xander said.
"Tea does have caffeine in it, honey", Cordelia added.
"Well, I'm going to get some tea for myself. Any other takers?"Willow asked.
Oz and Cordelia both said yes.
"Xander?"Willow asked.
After a moment, he said,
"Oh, alright. Get me a cup."
"I'll help you, Will", Cordy said standing up.
Both women then went off to the kitchen as the men engaged themselves in their conversation.
When Angel came home, he found Buffy home from work already, sleeping on the couch. He could see that she was exhausted. Leaning down, he gave her a kiss on the forehead. He then went to the bathroom to freshen up before leaving for Giles'. About half an hour later, he came down to see his wife still in slumber. Gently, he stroked her face to wake her up knowing that they had to meet the others at Giles.
"Buffy, wake up. Honey, we gotta go", Angel said.
Buffy stirred for a moment before opening her eyes.
"Hey", she said.
Angel just smiled.
"When did you get home?"she asked, sitting up.
"About half an hour ago. How come you're home early?"
"Didn't see the need to stay longer. Besides, there wasn't much work".
"We need to go. They're probably waiting for us."
"Angel, I don't feel up to it. Is it okay if I just stay home?"
"You're not feeling well?"
"No. I just don't feel like going out. I just want to rest. You go."
"I don't think that you should be alone".
"I'll be okay. Don't worry."
"But…"
"I will be okay. I promise you".
Angel hesitated but decided to let it go.
"Okay. Rest well and I'll see you later", Angel said getting up.
"I'll walk you out", Buffy said getting up as well.
"Lock all doors and windows while I'm out", he added.
At the door, Angel gave her one last peck before heading to his car. Buffy watched as Angel got his car out on the road, waving at him for before he sped off. She then went back in.
Sitting back at the couch, she just stared into space. She didn't want to go because she didn't see the need to. Though she knows and appreciates that her husband and friends are trying to help but there's also reality. She knows there is no way around it. Oddly, she felt that she was ready to face the Purveyor or whatever apocalypse that was to come. She was scared but not only of dying, but also of leaving Angel. He and the baby mean the world to her. Angel has been her strength and she knows that Angel loves her in a way no man ever could. For a normal guy like Angel to enter her life as a slayer and her world of darkness is a very big deal. He could have just played it safe and not get himself involved in her life and walk away from her but he didn't. He had a choice but he chose not to walk away. Instead, he adapted himself to her life, fighting beside her. He not only loved her but accepted her for who she is and now she has to leave him? After all he has done for her? She felt that it was unfair to Angel. Now she blamed herself.
'If only back then I was very firm and not allow him to get involved with me, he wouldn't have to go through this', she thought to herself.
But it was too late for regrets.
It was eight thirty and Buffy and Angel have yet to make an appearance. Willow had tried calling Buffy's cell but it was switched off, Angel didn't pick up his and no one answered when she tried their home.
"Why don't we start without them? I'm sure they're on their way", Cordelia suggested.
Everyone nodded their heads in approval and each took a book from the stacks of books Giles placed on the table. About fifteen minutes into their reading, the doorbell rang.
"That must be them", Giles said heading towards the door.
He opened his door to reveal only Angel standing on the other side.
"Sorry I'm late. Traffic was a killer", Angel said, entering the house.
"Where's Buffy?"Willow asked.
"She's at home. She's not feeling well."
"But I called your house just now and no one picked up".
"She must have dozed back to sleep. She was really exhausted", Angel answered.
"Are you sure it's wise to leave her alone?"Cordy asked.
"Cordelia is right, Angel", Giles added.
"I'll call your house again to check", Willow said.
"Guys, look, I know what you're thinking but Buffy's fine. She needs some time alone. To think things through. I also thought that it wasn't a good idea to leave her alone but knowing Buffy, she just needs time to herself and I think that was the real reason she didn't want to come".
"But, Angel, she's maybe not in her right mind. Who knows what she'll do?"Willow asked.
"If you're thinking that she might do something foolish, you're wrong. Buffy's carrying our child. She won't do anything that will harm the baby", Angel answered.
"But, Angel…"Willow tried to argue.
"No. We came here to help her and read through these books so can we please get to it?"Angel asked.
All of them hesitantly agreed.
About three hours passed and yet the gang came up with nothing. It was what Giles told them. Buffy was to face an apocalypse and she was to die in the hands of the Purveyor.
"This is pointless", Xander huffed.
"Xander", Cordelia chided.
"What? We've been through almost all the books here and it's all the same. She's gonna die", Xander continued.
He then turned to Angel and said,
"Look, I'm sorry Angel. I'm just frustrated".
"I can understand that but we really don't need your negativity at a time like this!" Willow bawled.
"How could you even say that? Buffy has saved your life time and time again plus the fact that she's your friend since high school that's been there for you", she continued.
"Look I'm sorry. I didn't mean to…"Xander started
"To what? Be a jerk?" Willow said before Xander could finish his sentence.
"Alright, that's quite enough", Giles said.
But Xander and Willow ignored Giles and continued bickering. Angel and Oz tried to calm them down.
Amidst the pandemonium, Cordelia just closed her ears and stared at the book on her lap, not wanting to care. As she was staring, she caught a sentence in the book.
'Filth? Chaste? What is this?' she thought as she straightened up.
The sentence was part of an entry. She reread the entry three more times.
' Could it be true?'
"Hey guys", Cordelia started but caught no one's attention.
She stood up and tried again.
"Guys", again no one listened.
"HEY! CAN ALL OF YOU PLEASE CALM DOWN? I MAY HAVE GOTTEN SOMETHING HERE!"
That did it. They all turned to face her.
"Thank you. Okay, I came across this entry in this guy's diary that I think could mean something so, listen up."
She then turned back to the book and read the entry out loud.
"Entry 189: With erroneous and filth it came, it can only be destroyed with the chaste and virtuous. The slayer cannot destroy the apocalypse that the Purveyor has planned and started, though she is made out of light and has tremendous strength. The Purveyor cannot and will not die until his mission is served and his mission is the apocalypse. But there is one way and one way only to destroy the Purveyor and the apocalypse and that is by using the purest of light and undefeatable strength. Though I thought the slayer was the answer, I was wrong. It is said that if she faces the apocalypse, she will perish. Even after almost ten years studying the Purveyor and the apocalypse he intends to bring forth, I still cannot decipher what it means or what is the being or thing that could destroy this demon and the apocalypse. Could this be the end of the world? The end of God's creation and mankind? God, help us all. Please send us a savior."
She looked up to the others.
"See? We got something here", she said.
"What book is that?"Giles inquired taking the book from her.
"There's no title but it's some guy's diary. The one I read was his last entry".
Giles inspected the book and said,
"It's the diary of a priest whom was well respected. I didn't know he was researching on the Purveyor. I didn't think of looking into his diary."
"Well, you should have", Cordelia added.
"Okay, we got something but it did say that Buffy can't destroy it", Xander said.
"No but now we know that there is something out there that can stop it. Now we just have to find out what", Cordelia replied.
"With the chaste and virtuous", Giles repeated trying to understand.
The rest of them thought hard as well.
'With the untainted and bona fide obliterated, my stratagem can work…It's you. You're the mate; the slayer's mate. You also caused this. You will pay', Willow recalled the Purveyor's words.
'Why would Angel cause it? Caused what? Untainted and bona fide? Okay, obviously Angel and Buffy cocked up his plan but how? Buffy, I would understand but Angel? What did he do wrong? He's just a normal guy. Okay so he married Buffy but it still doesn't make sense why Angel was at fault. Something about him being the slayer's mate? Whatever that means', Willow said to herself.
Then it struck her.
'The slayer's mate? That means…'
"The baby", Willow finally spoke up.
"What?"Giles asked.
"The baby".
"What baby?"Angel asked.
"Your baby", Willow said eagerly.
"Huh? Will, what are you talking about?"Xander asked.
"I'm talking about Buffy and Angel's unborn child. The child's the one who can destroy the Purveyor and the apocalypse".
"You're trying to say that my child is the one who can stop this monster?"
"Uh huh and the apocalypse".
"You're crazy".
"NO, Angel think about it. When we first came face to face with the demon, it was looking for Buffy. But then it also said that you caused it."
"Still I don't see how it is connected to our child?".
"Angel, it said about you being the mate. In primitive terms mate means to become one, to breed, to reproduce".
"It also means companion, friend and chum and buddy", Giles added.
"But guys think. It said Angel caused this. How could he have caused this? He's just an average guy. He can't be held responsible for cocking up some demon's plan to destroy the world. The book said with the chaste and virtuous means with the pure and clean. What's purer that a newborn baby?"
"It also said that the thing or being that can destroy the Purveyor is of the purest of light and with undefeatable strength", Xander added.
"Again I repeat nothing is purer than a newborn baby and undefeatable strength means a strength so powerful nothing can stop it. And what's more powerful than a mother's love to her child?" Willow replied.
"Angel, your child has the blood of the slayer running through his or her veins. The slayer is made out of light and has great strength. Your child has Buffy's light and your purity making him or her the purest of light", she continued.
"My purity? What do you mean?"
"It means you're pure. "
Everyone looked at her puzzled.
Willow looked around trying to explain it without embarrassing Angel.
"Um…what I'm trying to say is that maybe your body is unseen or untouched by any other woman except Buffy. Inside you is only Buffy and no one else", Willow finally said awkwardly.
Everyone knew what it meant but didn't say anything.
"But how sure are we?"Oz finally spoke.
"I'm very sure. There can't be anything else", Willow said.
"Okay if you're right then that means the Purveyor is out to get Buffy not because to get her out of the way but because she is carrying our child?"
"Yes. It has been stated that she will die in the apocalypse and that the Purveyor is immortal until the apocalypse so it seems pretty pointless for it to want and kill Buffy when the books said she won't survive".
"Okay, so that means we need to keep Angel jr. kicking in Buffy's tummy and we're safe?"Xander asked.
"Not just that but I think Buffy has to give birth to it. With his or her arrival, I believe that it will destroy the Purveyor and stop the apocalypse", Willow answered.
"When is she due?"Cordy asked Angel.
"She's not for another three weeks", he replied.
"Okay so we just need to keep her safe until then and…"Cordelia suddenly stopped and looked Angel in the eye.
"Angel, Buffy's at home, alone and vulnerable", she finally said.
Before anyone could say anything else, Angel was already out of the door, sprinting towards his car. The others followed not far behind.
"GET OUT OF THE WAY!"Angel honked and screamed at the cars in front of him.
He reached for his phone and dialed his house. Nobody answered. He tried again.
"Come on baby, pick up. Tell me you're okay."
After about the fifth time, he threw his phone in frustration.
'Please god don't let anything happen to her. God, please, don't take her away from me. Buffy, I don't want to lose you', he said to himself as he ran his hand through his hair.
Not far behind was Xander's car with the rest of the gang in it.
'I hope she's okay. Please let her be okay', Cordelia silently prayed.
"No one's picking up", Willow said.
She too has been trying to call Buffy.
"We'll be reaching in about ten more minutes", Xander announced.
Soon, Angel reached his home to see the door on the lawn. It was completely torn off its hinges.
"No", Angel said as he got out of his car and sprinted towards his house.
"BUFFY!"he called out for her once he was inside.
His home was a wreck. Like a lunatic, he searched his whole house but his wife was nowhere to be seen. He could hear the others calling him from downstairs but he didn't care. All he cared about was finding his wife. When he realized she was gone, he dropped to his knees, calling out her name one last time hoping there would be an answer but there was none. Soon tears rolled down his cheeks. He had never felt so helpless.
It was moments later when Cordelia found Angel on the floor.
"Angel, the Purveyor's got her. Janet and Dan saw some big red thing taking her. Come on, we gotta go find it".
Angel didn't move. He just kept on sobbing.
"Angel, come on. Buffy's in danger. Get up", Cordelia said pulling his arm.
Still he didn't budge.
"It's my fault. I caused this", Angel whimpered.
"What?"
"I was the one who got Buffy pregnant and now Buffy and our baby are paying the price. Ever since I came into her life, I have caused nothing but trouble. She lost her parents because of me and now…"
Cordelia held his arms and made him look at her.
"Angel, stop it! It is not your fault! Now you listen. Buffy's in danger and she needs you. So, get yourself together and get up!"
"No it's my fault".
Cordelia roughly shook his shoulders and said,
"Snap out of it! Do you want to lose her and the baby?"
"No!"
"Then get your butt of the floor and get out there! But if you're just gonna sit here and whimper and cry like a baby, you WILL lose her."
'She's right. I need to find her', Angel said to himself.
Pulling himself together, both him and Cordelia made their way downstairs to meet the others.
"We need to find the Purveyor fast!"Willow said.
"Alright, let's not panic. We need to know where the Purveyor would take Buffy", Giles added.
"But how? We don't have any lead", Cordelia pointed out.
After a moment, Xander spoke,
"We don't but I know someone who may have information."
"Then let's get out there", Angel said.
Ten minutes later, they reached Willy's Bar.
"Sometimes, when Buffy needs some info on the dark side, she turns to Willy", Xander informed.
"Willy? What kind of a demon has that name?"Cordelia asked.
"He's human. He runs a bar and his bar only serves a special type of clientele; demons, vamps, monsters, you name it."
"So if he serves them, why would he help Buffy?"
"Because Willy only see 'the green' ", Willow answered.
"Money?"
"Yupe. You give him the cash and he'll give you what's the what. But he's a greedy bastard. If you're not generous with the green, he won't say a thing. We call him 'Willy the Snitch'. Then Buffy will show him 'the black and blue', which she usually does actually. After a while, she just showed him 'the black and blue'. She'll just beat him up until Willy can't take it and he'll tell", Xander, added.
"Willy!"Xander called out.
Obviously Xander, Willow and Giles were used to this. The other three felt out of place. There wasn't a single human in this so-called 'bar'. There were vamps, demons with gruesome features and other beings that were too grotesque to describe and the drinks that they drank were all indescribable. The vamps of course had blood then there were green gooey liquid and brown substance…yuck! But weirdly, the creatures didn't seem to care that a bunch of human just entered the bar. They just ignored them. Guess they were used to it too.
"Willy!"Xander called out again.
"Pipe down! I'm coming!"said a voice.
Soon a medium built guy with a hair so outdated you'd think he was stuck in the 50s, emerged from the bar's store.
"Well, if it isn't the slayer's sidekicks. Ooh, brought some friends long too. What is this? Geek night out?"Willy chuckled.
The other demons that were sitting nearby suddenly got up and moved away from the group, hearing the word, 'slayer'.
"Shut your crap", Xander replied.
Taken aback, Willy knew this guy meant business.
"What can I do for ya?"Willy asked,
"I need information", Xander said calmly.
"Ain't that a surprise? Whaddya need?"Willy said sarcastically.
"Calls himself the Purveyor. Big red ugly guy. Where's it hiding?"Xander asked pulling out a twenty-dollar bill and placing it on the bar.
Willy looked at the money and said,
"Gee, wish I could help but never heard of him".
This means to get him to talk, he wanted more.
"I'll put in another fifty", Angel said from behind, pulling out the bill.
"Tell me where it's hiding", he continued.
Willy ignored him and pretended to clean a glass.
"I'll give you a hundred", Angel said showing Willy the note and placing it on the bar top as well.
Willy eyed the notes. He then said,
"I'll tell you what I know. Word got around that the grand mausoleum at Peace Cemetery has been avoided by the vamps and other demons lately. Said this big, ugly dude has like taken over it and made it his territory or something. So far, none of these creatures cares about territory whatsoever. They see it, they like it, they take it, but not this time. They stay away from the mausoleum like a plague. If these vamps and demons are afraid of something that's not the slayer, I'm guessing it's pretty powerful. But I don't know if we're talking about the same guy".
"Okay, what do you know about an apocalypse?"Xander asked further.
"I know nothing about an apocalypse", Willy answered.
"If you know nothing about an apocalypse then I'm the smartest guy in the world. Spill", Xander replied.
"I'm serious! I know nothing."
Angel was running out of patience. He took Willy by the lapels and threatened,
"Look! My wife is out there helpless! I don't have time for this! Unless you want me to beat you to death, which I will, you'll tell me what you know!"
The whole bar went silent and looked on at the commotion. Willy didn't know why he felt so threatened by this normal guy. Something told him that this guy could really hurt him or worse.
"You're him", Willy said as something occurred to him.
"You're the slayer's husband. God, when I first heard that the slayer got her a husband, I didn't believe it. I mean it's been so long since she came here. Pleasure to meet you. Shame on me for thinking you were a geek like the boy. What does it fe…?"Willy couldn't finish his sentence as Angel's fist connected to his face.
"I have no time for this! Tell me what you know!"Angel bawled.
"OW, for a normal guy, you pack quite a punch. Been training with the missus?"Willy teased.
When he saw Angel raised his hand again which no doubt to hit him again, he raised his hands in defense and said,
"Okay! Okay!"
Angel lowered his hand and said,
"Talk".
"All I know that there's an apocalypse coming. But something's delaying it. Something to do with Buffy. So unless that something is destroyed, the apocalypse can't come", Willy explained.
"So the apocalypse won't come?"Angel asked.
"From what I heard it will. The guy doing the apocalypse is determined to destroy that something".
The others just listened and looked at Angel and Willy's 'conversation'.
"How to stop the apocalypse?"
"That I don't know".
When Angel raised his fist again, Willy said,
"From the pure light or something but that's all I know, please don't hit me", Willy begged.
"So it can be stopped?"
"I guess".
"Come on, Angel. I think we've got enough information", Xander said pulling Angel away from Willy.
All of them started to move off.
"Nice doing business with you" Willy said.
When he was about to take the money, a hand sought out and took it first.
"Hey! We had a deal", he looked up to see Angel holding the money.
"I did say a hundred", Angel said giving him the notes.
Willy frowned and took the notes from him. Counting it he realized,
"Hey! This is only twenty. You said a hundred", Angel was already walking towards the door when Willy called out.
"Assume that the other eighty have been paid in 'black and blue'", Angel said without looking back, leaving an upset Willy to tend to his wounds.
Xander sped towards the mausoleum. Silence engulfed them. None of them knew what to say. All just looked ahead and silently prayed that Buffy will be okay.
Xander haven't even fully stopped the car and already Angel was out of the vehicle sprinting towards the grand mausoleum. Suddenly all of them heard a shriek. Buffy's shriek.
'Buffy, no!' Angel thought warily.
Angel ran faster.
Once there, Angel tried to open the door but it won't budge. He slammed the door with his body as hard as he could but still it didn't budge. He slammed again and again.
"Angel!"
He turned to see the gang carrying a huge log. He moved to help them carry it as well. He didn't care to ask how or where they found this log at the cemetery. He just wanted the door opened.
"On three!"Xander called.
"ONE! TWO! THREE!"
The door budged but it didn't break.
"One more time! On three! ONE! TWO! THREE!"
It budged again but like before, it didn't break.
"One last time! Give it everything you've got! Ready?!"
Hearing the response he continued,
"On three! ONE! TWO! THREE!"
That did it.
Once they were inside, they were presented with an unconscious Buffy on the floor.
'God, please no', Angel thought to himself, fearing for the worst as he ran towards her.
"Buffy" he said, his hands trembling as he touched her wrist, looking for a pulse.
When there wasn't, he started to panic.
"She's not breathing", he turned, saying to the others.
"No, baby no!"Angel started sobbing.
"Angel, let me try CPR", Willow offered.
Hesitantly, Angel laid her down and stepped aside. Tears were rolling down his cheeks as he watched helplessly. Cordelia place a hand on his shoulders trying to comfort him. When it seemed like Willow has tried for like the umpteenth time, suddenly, she felt Buffy's chest moved.
"She's breathing", Willow said.
Angel immediately kneeled beside Buffy and held her hand. Buffy's eyes fluttered open.
"Angel?"she whispered.
"I'm here, baby. I'm right here".
"Hurts", she whispered again.
"Uh, Angel", Cordelia called.
Angel looked at Cordelia to see her pointing at Buffy's legs. Blood was starting to stream down it.
"We need to get her to the hospital, now", Giles said.
Angel carried Buffy in his arms and headed towards the door.
"Nobody goes anywhere!" they heard a voice but no sign of the demon.
"The Purveyor. What now?"Willow whispered.
Without a second thought, Angel said,
"Xander, take Buffy. Get her to the hospital now. The rest of you follow him. I'll try to stall the Purveyor".
"But Angel, he's strong and indestructible. He just hit you once the other time and you were in bed for almost a week", Willow argued.
"I don't care. Look, if we all go to the hospital, he'll surely come after us. Right now all he wants is to kill our baby. Someone needs to stall him! You guys go! We need to save Buffy and the baby", Angel said.
"But…"
"Willow please! There is no time. Please save my wife and baby", Angel begged.
"What about you?"
"JUST GO!"
Xander carefully took Buffy out of Angel's arms and sprinted towards the door. The others hesitatingly followed behind. Once at the car, Xander carefully placed Buffy at the back seat. Willow and Cordelia sat on either side of her. Oz took the front with Xander.
"Angel", Buffy whispered again, her eyes started to flutter.
"Buffy, stay awake", Willow pleaded.
Then Xander realized that Giles was nowhere to be seen.
"Where's Giles?"
He looked at the rear view mirror to see him at the boot. Frowning, Xander called out,
"Giles! Get in the car! We're running out of time!"
Giles emerged carrying a rather large brown bag. He then walked to Xander's window.
"What are you doing and what's in that?"Xander asked, pointing towards the bag.
"I managed to grab my weapons bag just now. I'm going to help Angel. He can't face that thing alone especially with no arms. I'm hoping the weapons I have with me are sufficient. Now go and get Buffy to the hospital. Be safe", Giles explained.
Xander simply nodded and drove off. He wanted to argue but he knew there wasn't time. He just hoped that both Giles and Angel would be okay.
As soon as the rest was out, Angel took out his gun and held it in shooting position as he carefully moved around the mausoleum.
"Show yourself!"Angel called out.
Suddenly, Angel was thrown onto a wall. Angel looked up to see the demon smiling devilishly.
"So, we meet again, weakling".
Angel painfully got up and aimed his gun at the demon. He shot at it. The demon was taken aback but it wasn't at all injured.
"You fool! Nothing can kill me until my purpose is served!"
It simply took the bullet out and threw it on the floor. Angel was surprised when the part of the demon he shot at magically closed, making it look as if it wasn't shot before. It punched Angel and again he went sprawling to the ground.
"Why are you wasting your time fighting me? You know I cannot be stopped. Besides, I already killed your wife and child. Now, my apocalypse will come".
Angered, Angel got up again and when it came close, he punched the demon as hard as he could and managed to hold out his own for a couple more blows before it shoved him to the floor again. Angel coughed in pain.
"Time to die, scrawny being", it said.
As it advanced towards him, Angel knew that he was finished. He was too weak to try and stand. When he thought that this was it, the demon bawled,
"Who dares?"
"Get away from him".
Angel thought he heard Giles' voice. When the demon turned, Angel saw an arrow pierced through its back. He looked ahead and saw Giles standing there with a crossbow in his arms. Angel felt relieved.
"You fool!"it said and advanced towards Giles.
Giles ran trying to avert the demon's attention away from Angel. Slowly Angel tried to get up.
"We need help!" Willow called as Xander carried Buffy to the emergency room and placed Buffy on an empty bed.
Soon a nurse came.
"What happened?"she asked.
"Uh, she fell", Willow lied.
"Okay, go call Dr. Shawn" the nurse called to another fellow nurse who immediately ran to the phone and made the call.
The nurse went about checking Buffy's pulse. Not long after, a woman with black hair, obviously the doctor came running towards them.
"Okay, what happened", she asked the nurse.
"The people who brought her in said she fell", the nurse answered, pointing towards Xander, Willow, Cordelia and Oz.
The doctor went about checking Buffy.
"She's bleeding profusely. How hard did she fall?" the doctor asked the gang.
"We're not sure. When we found her, she was already like that", Xander answered.
"Her pulse is slowing down", the nurse added.
"Get her in the emergency room and prepare for surgery now", the doctor called.
Soon two other nurses pushed the bed Buffy was in towards the Emergency Room. The gang was about to follow when the doctor stopped them.
"You're not allowed in. Alright, tell me what really happened".
"Just what he told you, when we found her, she was already like that", Willow explained.
"From the way she was bleeding, I'm guessing something else happened. You want me to save her; I need to know the truth. "
"We're telling you the truth! Just please save her and the baby," Willow bawled
"I gotta tell you honestly, from the looks of it, I don't think the baby survived but I'm going to try my best".
"Please do", Willow begged.
"Alright, I need…"
"Doc, you gotta see this. The bleeding has stopped and her wounds are healing but the baby's heartbeat is dropping", said the nurse who wheeled Buffy in.
"Is the mother conscious?" the doctor asked as she started to walk towards the Emergency Room.
"No".
The gang just looked on as the doctor and nurse disappeared into the Emergency Room.
Angel and Giles tried their best to hold put the demon but they were obviously fighting the losing battle. Both of them were on the floor, struggling to get up.
"You fool! I'm invincible! Now with nothing in the way, my apocalypse will now come just as planned", it bawled.
Angel felt anger overcome him as he took the battle-axe that had fallen before and swiped it again but like before it was no use. The monster simply chuckled and threw Angel against the wall.
"I don't feel good. Maybe we guys should go back and help Giles and Angel", Oz suggested.
"I know that seems the most logical thing to do but what good will it bring? The creature's invincible. Besides, I'll feel better with you guys here", Cordelia added.
Just then, Dr Shawn burst open the door to the Emergency Room.
"Doctor, how is she?"Willow asked.
"I know you people brought her here but is there anyone else I can speak to? A relative perhaps?"
"Her husband is attending some urgent matters and will be here as soon as possible and we are her relatives", Willow lied.
It's not a lie but it wasn't entirely true either. The doctor seems to buy it.
"Thankfully, she's conscious again. I have contacted her gynecologist. She's on her way as we speak. We manage to stabilize her but…"
"But what?"
"She has lost a lot of blood".
"Oh god, no. Not the baby", Cordy exclaimed.
"That's the thing. Her baby's heartbeat is slower by the minute and she has to give birth to the baby now. It's going to be premature but that's not the only thing. By deciding to do this, she may lose her life".
"What?"
"She was given a choice to either save the baby or herself and she chose to save the baby", the doctor explained.
"Can't you save her?"Cordy asked.
"No. We can only save either the mother or child. It takes a miracle to save both. I need you guys to fill up some admin stuff. Please approach the admin counter and our admin staff will help you. Excuse me but I'm needed", Dr Shawn said as she went back to the Emergency Room.
All of them stayed silent too shocked to say anything.
"Xander, Oz, get Angel now", Willow said.
Without another word, both of them left for the cemetery. Willow and Cordelia just held each other's hands and silently prayed for their friend.
About fifteen minutes later, Xander and Oz were at the cemetery making their way towards the mausoleum. They did not utter a single word to each other. Neither knew what to say. As they were reaching the mausoleum, they slowly crept, hoping not to get any attention. When they came close enough to see the inside, they saw Giles cringing on the floor but they didn't see Angel.
"You stay here. I'll go in", Xander whispered.
"Why is it you? Trying to be a hero?"Oz replied.
"No, because if both of us are hurt then who's going to drive us?"
"You stay here while I go in. I AM a private investigator"
"So? Hello, I've been fighting this stuff for years".
Oz was about to argue when a voice said,
"Well, well, we have got visitors."
They looked up to see the Purveyor standing over them.
"Uh oh", Xander muttered.
A couple hours passed and no sign of the guys. Cordelia started to feel a little anxious.
"What's taking them so long?"Cordelia whined.
"Buffy?" Willow asked.
"No, the guys. It's been two hours, Will. I've been calling Xander but he doesn't pick up. I'm worried".
Willow was about to reply when Dr. Shawn burst out of the emergency room again.
"Doctor, how is she?"Willow asked.
"I can't believe it but both the baby and the mother are fine. The baby's a little premature but he'll be fine."
"He?"
"Yes, she gave birth to a baby boy".
"Oh my god! Thank you so much doctor!"Cordy said.
"Can we see her?"Willow asked.
"We'll be transferring her to a normal ward. You can see her then", Dr. Shawn explained as she walked away.
"Oh my god, Will, I can't believe it!"Cordy said.
They both hugged each other as they shed tears of joy. Then suddenly Willow said,
"Cordy, the guys!"
"Oh my god, you're right. What do we do? Do we go there?"
"I don't know".
"I'll try calling Xander again".
"I'll try Oz's".
Xander and Oz didn't pick up their phone because they joined Angel and Giles on the floor. Angel seeing them lying helpless braved himself one last time. He slowly got up, clutching to his side knowing that his ribs were seriously injured. He picked up the battle-axe that was beside him again and swipes it with all of his might, injuring the demon's shoulder.
"Hahaha…you fool! Do you not understand that I cannot be killed?"
But unlike before, his wounds didn't magically heal. His shoulders kept on bleeding.
"What?! NO! This is not happening! Not when I'm this close", the demon screamed.
Angel looked on.
"Angel, kill it. It's no longer invincible. Buffy must have given birth", Giles said as he painfully tried to get up.
Angel felt his strength again. He swiped the axe again slashing the demon across its ribs. It tried fighting back but Angel was quick to avoid its attacks. Finally, giving it all he's got, Angel swiped the axe across the Purveyor's neck. Then, the Purveyor's body started to shake as if it was having a fit before it exploded. It was over. Angel then knelt down in pain. Slowly, one by one, the guys pulled themselves up. Once they were in the vehicle, Angel breathed a sigh of relief.
"It's over. My child is…drive as fast as you can to the hospital," Angel said to Xander who was in the driver's seat as he was kind of the least injured.
He was excited to see his son or daughter. Buffy and him have discussed and they decided to not know their baby's sex. They wanted to be surprised.
"Angel, there's something you need to know", Xander started.
"What?"
"The doctor said that Buffy lost a lot of blood. She said that…"
"Said what?"
"She said she can only either save Buffy or your child and she gave Buffy the choice".
"No".
"Assuming that we're alive and the Purveyor is dead, it can only mean one thing; that the baby's alive, so that means…"
After a few moments, Angel said,
"Get me to the hospital".
Xander started the engine and drove to the hospital. Angel felt his tears coming. He had lost the one woman he loved more than anything in the world. Soon, tears started rolling down.
The drive to the hospital was quiet. Once they were there, they slowly made their way towards the entrance. Angel felt his legs were heavy. Once inside the hospital, Oz said,
"I'll check. See if they've moved her".
Angel didn't say a thing. He just weakly nodded. Angel felt his world crumbling as he slowly sat on a nearby chair.
"Xander".
They looked up to see Cordelia running towards her husband and launched herself into his arms. Willow wasn't far behind.
"OW!"Xander exclaimed in pain.
"I'm so sorry. Oh my god, Willow and I were about to get you. We were so worried", Cordelia explained.
"Where's Oz?"Willow asked them.
"Here".
Willow turned to see Oz smiling at her. She was about to hug him when she decided against it and give him a soft peck on the lips.
"Angel, you're not going to believe this", Cordy said.
"Buffy's fine", Oz added.
"How did you know that?"Willow asked.
"Checked with the information counter. Said that she's moved to a normal ward".
Angel's eyes lit up.
"Yeah, she's at…Angel! Angel", Cordelia called.
But Angel was already sprinting towards the lift as if he wasn't even injured, wanting to get to his wife as quickly as she could. There was only one thing in his mind,
'She's alive!'
The rest of them tried to keep up with him. Once they were on the lift, Xander said,
"Dude, for one injured guy, you run fast".
But Angel couldn't care what Xander said. He just wanted to get to Buffy and see his child. Once the lift door opened, he asked,
"Where is she?"
"Well if you'd stop running around like a lunatic, we'll take you to her", Cordelia chided.
When they reached her ward, Angel took a breath before pushing the door open. What he saw surprised him,
"Mr. and Mrs. Summers. Mum, Dad."
His and Buffy's parents were all standing around her bed.
"Angel?" he heard Buffy say.
"Oh my god Angel, what happened", Rachel asked, seeing his son's condition.
"It's nothing, mum".
"It's not nothing. You better have those injuries looked at, son", Cole added.
"I'll be okay".
"Mr. and Mrs. Summers", he greeted.
Joyce went and hugged Angel while Hank just stood behind. When Joyce released Angel, she looked at Hank as if waiting for him to say something but he didn't.
A few long moments passed by and there was an awkward silence in Buffy's ward.
"Joyce, tell your son-in-law that I'm here to see my daughter and grandchild. Tell him that I'm thankful that he has been taking care of them", Hank finally said.
Angel frowned.
'What is that suppose to mean?' Angel wanted to say but he just stayed silent.
"And ask him, if he could…"Hank stopped before saying,
"If he could, forgive this old man for his foolish actions".
Angel looked at Hank and saw tears in his eyes.
"I'm so sorry, Angel. I didn't mean anything I said before. I was stupid and too blinded. I didn't want to lose my only child".
Angel embraced Hank as if he was embracing his own father.
"It's okay, Mr. Summers. It's okay."
"You're the best thing that happened to her and I didn't see it. Forgive me".
Everyone there too felt a tear coming to his or her eyes. It was so emotional.
"Well, now that everyone has had a good cry, I think it's time for us to see our grandchild, don't you think so Hank?"Cole said.
Hank and Angel broke their embrace and Hank added,
"Yupe, let's go".
Angel was about to go as well when Cole said,
"You just stay here, buddy. We'll bring your baby here. Stay with Buffy".
Both the Sremmus and Summers then made their way to the nursery.
"We'll go see your baby too and maybe get some bandages on the way", Xander said, hinting to the others to leave the couple alone.
Once alone, Angel looked at his wife and smiled weakly.
"Hey, are you okay?"Angel asked, holding her hands.
"I should be asking you that question", she replied.
"I'm fine", he said, perched beside her on the bed.
"So, how did your parents know?"Angel asked.
"Willow called them. I was surprised they came".
"They must've realized that what they did was wrong".
"But Dad confessed that everything was his fault. Mum had nothing to do with it".
"Everything is okay now right?"
"It is."
"You really need to get this looked at", Buffy said, pointing to his wounds.
"This is nothing compared to the feeling I felt when I heard that you decided to choose our child's life over yours. I thought I lost you".
"Angel, I told you that no matter what, I'll make sure Angel jr. comes".
Angel embraced her and tears came.
"I know but I'm not ready to lose you. God, Buffy, when Xander said that you were…I felt like dying".
"Shh…I'm okay".
After a moment, they broke their embrace.
"Do you remember anything that had happened?"Angel asked.
"Not really. Just that I was about to fall asleep when I heard a noise. I turned and saw this ugly red thing. Before I had a chance to react, it hit me. Then, I heard you call me. I remember seeing you then after that, I don't remember. Next thing I knew I was here. Was that thing the Purveyor?"
Angel nodded and said,
"But you don't have to worry anymore. It's dead".
"Really? How?"
"Turns out that there's only one thing that can stop it".
"What's that?"
"Our baby".
"Our son?"
Angel nodded.
"We have a son?"Angel suddenly realized he has yet to know the sex of his child.
"Uh huh and he looks just like you".
"Really?"
A moment later, the door opened.
"Look who's here", Rachel announced.
Angel turned to see a baby crib pushed in. The rest of them behind her. Rachel pushed it near the bed before picking the baby up and giving it to Buffy. Angel looked on as Buffy cradled his son in her arms. Angel was lost for words. The picture was simply breathtaking.
"You wanna hold him? Daddy?"Buffy asked.
Angel simply looked at her and nodded. With the help of Rachel, the baby was soon cradled in his arms.
"Hey there, little guy. Welcome to our family", Angel said.
"Have you guys thought of a name?"Willow asked.
"We have", Buffy answered.
"Aston. Aston Bruce Sremmus", Angel said, smiling warmly at his son.
Buffy was discharged a few days later. When Buffy reached home, flowers were seen everywhere around the house.
"Where did all this come from?"Buffy asked.
"Your friends, my friends, your clients, my clients and of course both our families", Angel explained.
"This is a whole lot of flowers".
"I know".
Angel said looking around.
"Well, looks like the little guy is sound asleep", he added pointing at his son cradled in Buffy's arms.
"I'll go put him down", Buffy, said.
She slowly made her way up with Angel trailing behind her. When she entered the bedroom, she saw the cutest crib at the side of their bed.
"Angel, did you do this?"
"No. It made itself. It's got a mind of its own".
"Angel, it's not funny. It's so gorgeous".
"I finished it last night. Wanted to give you a surprise. I even picked the covers and comforters. Hope you like it".
"I love it. It's so cute. Thank you", she said and giving him a peck.
Slowly, she set Aston down and pulled the small comforter over him. Angel held Buffy around her waist and both of them looked lovingly at their son.
"He looks just like you", Buffy said.
"Yeah but he has your eyes".
They both smiled at Angel's comment. A moment later, Buffy said,
"God, Angel, I never thought I'd be standing here, looking…"
"Hey, nothing can take you away from me. Nothing. I love you and no matter what, we'll always be together, till the end of time".
"Till the end of time".
Sealing their words with a kiss.
THE END
