Chapter 4: Cordelia

*****A Week Later*****

Cordelia grinned at Buffy, who was stirring the cream in her coffee with a goofy grin on her face. "Someone's in a good mood," Cordelia said. Invisible hands poured her own coffee. "Thanks, Dennis."

"It's a good morning," Buffy said. "But I don't know why you wanted me at your apartment so early. It's Sunday. A day of rest."

"It's not that early, Buffy. It's after nine," Cordelia said with a smirk. "I wanna hear all about your second date with Bucky! My social life is utterly dead, so the least you can do is let me live vicariously through you."

"We went to that club that has jazz players off campus I heard about," Buffy shared. "He liked it."

"Good. And?" Cordy prodded.

"He kissed me goodnight," Buffy shared with a happy sigh.

Cordelia cheered. "Finally!" she exclaimed. "I take it from your smile that it was a good kiss."

"It was perfect," Buffy said. "He is perfect—for me anyway."

"I'm glad for you, Buffy. You deserve it," Cordy said. "I have something to tell you that might burst your happy bubble or make it bigger."

"What?" Buffy asked.

"I talked to Willow, and she said that she and Tara were coming to town for Fall Break," Cordelia said.

"Really?" Buffy asked. "We can go to them."

"You and I can, but Xander can't. You know Xander can't miss more work," Cordy said.

"When is their fall break? Ours is in two weeks," Buffy said.

"Theirs is in another week," Cordelia answered. "They are going to spend Thursday finishing up some work and then fly in Friday."

"We need to take Xander out when they arrive," Buffy said. "Go to a club and go dancing. Relax and think of nothing but fun. This town is so tame that one evening off is no biggie."

"Sounds great to me," Cordelia said.

There was a knock on the door, so Buffy got up to answer it. "Good morning, Wes. What's up?" Buffy asked.

"I have an interview in a half hour for a potential employee," he answered. "Will you come by the shop in about forty-five minutes or so? I'd like you to sign off on the guy before I hire him."

"Sure," Buffy said. "But don't you need Xander's approval?"

"Actually, Xander wants me to take care of it," Wes said. "But I figured that you have good instincts. Your slayer radar will spot someone with nefarious intentions at the very least."

"Not if the person is human," Buffy said, thinking of Walsh. "I've been fooled by humans with bad intentions. Remember my professor that was a secret vampire neuterer?"

"Yes, well, I'd still feel better if you come meet him," Wes said.

Buffy's eyes brightened. "Oh, it's a guy? Is he a hottie? Cordelia's in major need of smoochies," she offered.

Cordelia's face flushed as she glared at her friend. "I do not! I'm just fine living alone with my male ghost! If I so wanted to meet a guy, I would!" she insisted.

"It couldn't hurt having someone already in the know, though, right?" Buffy said. "You are going to make sure the guy's not an idiot about the supernatural?"

"It's not essential that a person sells goods and offering excellent customer service be a believer in magic, Buffy," Wesley said. "I'd rather they be honest and reliable."

"Still, it'd be better," Buffy said.

"I have to go," Wesley said, looking at his watch. "I mustn't be late."

Buffy grinned. He was still so proper sometimes, and she found herself amused by that quality. "No, you mustn't," she mocked.

Wesley gave her a look but said nothing as he left. Buffy giggled. "I do so like the new and improved Wesley. The stick has been removed from his butt, but every so often, the British properness comes out," she said. "I miss Giles. I'm going to go call him."

"Tell him, I said hi," Cordelia said.

"I'm going to go take my shower, so I'll catch up with you later," Buffy said.

"Later," Cordelia said. She sighed and stirred her coffee absentmindedly. "I hate when Buffy's right."

She did wish that she had someone. Her fleeting attraction with Angel was fading even though she did miss him quite a bit.

*****Magic Box*****

Wesley was quite impressed with the attractive young man who wanted to work at his shop. He was a graduate student in ancient languages and folklore, reminding him very much of himself and Rupert. A perfect Watcher candidate, in fact.

"So, Luke, tell me. What attracted you to our shop? Most Americans are very dismissive of this kind of establishment," he said.

"Before I answer, I would like to know if you are a believer in the practice of magic or is this just a trinket shop? I'm fine either way," Luke said, flashing a smile.

Wes considered his response. It would be better if the man understood really what they were doing. "I've seen too much in my life to discount magic as real," Wes said. "Although I am not a warlock myself, I can perform basic spells if called upon. Alexander, the owner of this establishment, has a best friend that is a powerful witch, and her girlfriend is also a witch of considerable power. If you work for us, it is not necessary that you believe in magic or the supernatural. However, I must caution you that you will encounter things that might challenge your world view."

The man nodded, thoughtful. "My mother is a witch of sorts, and she has taught me some things," the man admitted. "It's what drew me to ancient languages. She had an old book of spells in another language. That led me to study the history of magic and druidism."

Wesley was both relieved and excited. "Well, it sounds like you might be a good fit, especially if your studies allow you for some flexibility in scheduling," Wesley said. "I can't promise a set schedule as things sometimes come up."

"That's not a problem," Luke said.

The door opened, interrupting them. "Hey, Wes," Buffy said, giving the two men a bright smile. The potential newbie was very attractive. When he stood in greeting, Buffy realized that he was closer to six foot. He had a friendly smile, so Buffy held out her hand. "Hello. I'm Buffy. If you're going to work for my best friend, you should know me."

"This is the witch you were telling me about?" Luke asked, glancing at Wesley.

"Oh, no," he replied. "This is Buffy, not Willow. Buffy's gifted in other ways. All of Xander's friends are female."

"Sounds like a lucky man," Luke said with a grin.

"So he's in the know?" Buffy asked Wesley.

"He's had some experience with witchcraft," Wesley said. "This is Luke Olson. He's a graduate student studying ancient languages and folklore."

Buffy frowned. "That seems a bit convenient," she said. "Are you evil?"

Wesley's eyes widened in dismay. "Buffy," he admonished.

Luke laughed. "No, that's fine," he said. "I'm not offended. In the world today, it's good to be cautious."

"That doesn't answer my question," Buffy said pointedly.

"No, I'm not evil," he said. "I don't claim to be perfect, but I try to do what's best for mankind."

"Where's that accent from? You don't sound exactly British," Buffy prodded."

"I'm actually from Switzerland," Luke said. "The accent isn't as pronounced."

Buffy nodded, giving him a considering look. She felt something from him, but she couldn't quite decide if it was bad or not. If he was a magic wielder, that might explain it. She didn't feel a threaten from him, so she relaxed. "Okay. If you decide to turn evil, you'll regret it," she warned.

"Okay," Luke said, looking at Wesley.

"Ignore her. We've just had some bad luck before, and she's overly pessimistic," Wesley assured him. "Can you start Tuesday? We're closed Sundays and Mondays."

"Sure, I'm free after one," he said.

"I'll see you then. Bring your two forms of I.D. for the employment papers," Wesley said.

Buffy watched the guy leave. "He seems okay," she said.

"I think he's a good find," Wesley said. "He's twenty-five, having served four years in the military. He earned his bachelor's while serving."

"Military?" Buffy asked in alarm.

"Yes, Buffy, many good Americans consider it a privilege to serve their nation in the armed forces," Wesley said. "Not everyone who served is suspect."

Buffy sighed. "Yea, I guess he wouldn't have told you that if he had an agenda. Riley didn't," she said.

"There you go. I'll let Xander know the good news," Wesley said. "Who knows? Maybe Luke will prove useful if he has any real magical abilities."

"Let's hope," Buffy said.

They both knew that no one could replace Willow or Tara, however.

*****The Following Friday ******

Cordelia was so glad that Willow and Tara was in town as it gave the group a welcome break up in the routine. Buffy and Bucky weren't too lovey-dovey, but their obviously growing closeness made Cordelia feel lonely sometimes. Xander was too wrapped up in his grief when he wasn't working to be much of a companion.

"It's so great to see you guys!" she said, hugging Willow and Tara. Tara was a bit surprised by her warmth as they didn't know each other too well, but she knew that the group was close. It made her happy to feel so welcomed.

"We're glad to be seen," Willow said.

"How's Xander?" Tara asked.

"Oh, he's hanging in there," Buffy said. "He'll be here shortly. He was knocking off work early."

"We are so going out!" Cordelia explained. "I feel a strong need to get hammered and forget things for a while."

"Has something happened?" Tara asked in concern.

"She's just jealous 'cause I have a hot honey, and she doesn't!" Buffy said with a smug smile.

"It's not fair!" Cordelia said with a pout. "I'm gorgeous and intelligent and compassionate. Where are all the hot college guys that are supposed to be beating down my door?"

"It kind of sucks having freshmen classes, huh?" Willow said knowingly.

"You're telling me," Cordelia said with a groan. "Tonight, we're going to a club and find me a hot guy!"

"Did someone order a hot guy? Here I am!" Xander said as he came into Buffy's apartment.

"Xander!" Willow gushed, running to embrace him.

"All my ladies in one place," Xander said with a wide smile. "I'm one lucky guy!"

"Yes, you are," Willow said, smiling up at him. She was so glad to see him smile again.

A few hours later, a good time was being had by all of them. Xander allowed himself to really join in. At first, he felt a flash of guilt, but then he thought of Anya. No one loved having a good time and dancing more than she, so he decided to allow his friends to distract him from his grief for a few hours.

Buffy was slow dancing with Bucky, who was not at all comfortable at the club. He had been content to sit sipping a beer, watching the girls. When a slow song played, though, Buffy dragged him out onto the floor.

Xander had been pleasantly surprised by Bucky the past few weeks. He had become a permanent roommate of Xander as Xander didn't really want to be alone. Bucky didn't either, so he didn't take the empty apartment that was available. Xander's pain reminded him of the man he used to be. No longer could Bucky crack and a joke and be the devil-may-care man he once was, but he could offer Xander a distraction. He found that having someone else around at night kept some of the demons at bay.

Slow dancing with Buffy was nice, however. "This isn't so bad," Bucky murmured.

Buffy smiled and looked up at him. "I told you," she said. She raised up slightly and pulled his head down so that she could kiss him. They hadn't slept together yet as she wanted things to work. No more rushing into things. Being friends as pen pals and then him showing up when she needed his outsider's perspective and support had been perfect. Now, though, she was ready to open her heart to more.

Nearby, Cordelia walked over to Xander, who was sitting at the table drinking. She held out her hand. "Come on, doofus. Dance with me," she ordered.

Xander smiled and stood up. "Not enough hot guys here to satisfy the queen, huh?" he asked.

"Nope," she said. She slipped into his arms, and it was like they were back in high school again. He was the perfect height, not towering over her but not short either.

"You look gorgeous, so these guys must be blind," Xander said, looking down at her in the short red dress with low neckline.

"No, they're not blind," she said. "I just wanted to dance with you. You were looking sad."

"Anya loved to dance," he admitted. "Our first date was the senior prom."

"Oh, yes, that's right," she said. "I had forgotten. You were my knight, buying me that gorgeous dress, so I could make Wesley drool."

Xander laughed. "I can't believe you used to crush on him," he said.

"Why not? He's very cute and has that accent. Girls do love an accent," she said primly. "How did you end up going with Anya?"

"She ordered me to take her," he said with a fond smile. "Since you had trained me to do what a woman orders, what could I do?"

Cordelia snorted. "So that's how you remember things? Figures," she muttered.

"I let you dress me, Cordelia," he reminded her.

"Only sometimes," she replied with a grin.

The music changed to a fast song, and she grabbed his hand, not letting him go back to the table.

Xander decided to let go of his pain for a night and focus enjoying himself with his friends.

*****The Next Morning*****

The bright light from the blinds she'd left opened woke Cordelia up. When she opened her eyes, she winced at the shine. She sat up and a piercing pain hit her head. It wasn't a vision, so she knew it was the beginning of a hangover from hell.

"Ah, God," she mumbled. Keeping her eyes half closed, she called out, "Dennis! Can you bring me some aspirin and some water?"

"Can you not yell?" Xander asked.

Gasping in surprise, Cordelia's eyes flew open, and she turned and saw Xander in the bed next to her. "What are you doing in my bed?" she demanded.

Xander lifted up the covers and saw that he was naked. "Well, since I don't have on any underwear, I can only assume that you had your wicked way with me," he said dryly.

Cordelia looked down and realized that she was nude also. "What the hell did we do?" she asked.

Xander sat up and turned to put his feet on the floor, his head was pounding. He dropped it into his hands. "Have Dennis give me some of those aspirins," he said.

Ghostly hands moved to do just that, and the couple took their pills with a sip of water, refusing to really look at one another.

Finally, Xander stood up and got dressed, Cordy averted her eyes, keeping the covers over her chest.

"Cordelia, I'm sorry," Xander said.

"No, I'm sorry," Cordelia said quickly. "I can't believe this happened. I know you're not in a place that would welcome something like this. This shouldn't have happened."

"Probably not," he said. "But it did. I let myself forget for a few hours how miserable I was. It was nice."

Cordelia wasn't sure how to reply. What was the right thing in this situation? They had so much history, and he was still grieving. "I guess when you're lonely, it's easy to turn to someone who knows you," she said. "I don't exactly remember what happened, but I know that I care about you. I hate that you're in such pain, but I know you're not ready to move on from it."

"No, I'm not," he said. He walked over to her side of the bed and leaned down. He gave her a soft kiss. "I don't want to pretend that this didn't happen, but I'm not ready for it to happen again—not now. I don't know when I'll be."

"That's okay, Xander," she assured him. "We were each other's first love, but it was more like puppy love. What you had with Anya was the real deal. I respect that."

Xander straightened up and smiled at her. "You are first-class, Cordelia. Thanks," he said.

"You're welcome," Cordelia said, forcing a smile. She kept it on until he left. Then she sunk down into the covers and cried.

"What did I do, Dennis? And with Xander?" she groaned.

She didn't know what she felt for Xander, but she knew that having drunken sex with him less than two months after his fiancée died was a sure way to make sure nothing real between them could ever happen again.

*****The Magic Box*****

Tara was humming happily as she went into the Magic Box. She wanted to do a cleansing of Xander's house before she and Willow left. Bucky and Xander both carried such pain inside that she knew it would help ease them both. They were flying back to New York in the morning. Tony was insisting they take his plane back for a non-stop flight, saving time. Willow thought it was his generosity on display, but Tara knew that he just hated to have Willow away for him on a weekday. If the man was a bit younger and not in love with Pepper, she might be jealous. Instead, she found it sweet how much he adored and appreciated her Willow.

When that mess with the Mandarin went down, Willow had really stepped up and helped him get through. Tara had even helped Pepper when that guy Killian tried to kidnap her.

"Good afternoon, Tara," Wesley said. "It's nice having you and Willow back in town. What can I get for you?"

"I have a list of ingredients I hoped you could fill," Tara said, handing it to him. "I want to do a cleansing spell at Xander's before we leave town."

"Of course," Wesley said. He glanced at the paper. "I should have everything on it except for one. Luke, our new hire, is sorting through the spices in the back."

"Xander told me that you found someone that knew about magic to work here. How's he working out?" she asked.

"Great so far," Wesley said. "Luke, can you come out here? I have a friend I want you to meet."

"Coming," he called back.

Tara smiled at the dark haired, attractive man who stepped out of the backroom. She stepped closer to the counter.

"I'll just go gather these ingredients," Wesley said. He looked at Luke. "Luke, this is Tara, a friend of ours from New York. I am getting some ingredients she needs."

"Hello," Luke said, holding out his hand. "It's nice to meet you."

Tara stepped closer to take his hand. "It's nice—" she began and stopped as her eyes connected with his. Wesley disappeared into the back, and she moved even closer. "Loki? Is that you?"

Luke grinned. "I knew I couldn't fool you, little sister," he said. He pulled her close for a hug.

*****The End*****

. Thanks so much for reading! If you want to check out the final installment, it's called "From Beneath Me."