A/N- well…soooo sorry about the delay. I've been moving houses and my mum
dc'd my internet connection for a few weeks. Plus I had all these
assignments and essays and homework tasks to do…THEN on top of that I
started to get writer's block (GRR ARGH) but Mrs O-Town has been working me
out of that one…^_^ *MASSIVE* thanx to Mrs O-Town. Standing ovation and
everything.
I'm returning a favour for her now. READ MRS OTOWN'S FICS! (See…this is an ad for her fics, which are excellent. I love 'em *and* the Angel ones are A/C like sooo many of you have been campaigning for. ^_^)
^_^ Umm…so this chapter is probably crap, but I wrote it and I *need* reviews! I really need reviews ppl! I'm not just sayin' it! (PS-*big* thanx to those of you that reviewed the last couple of chapters. I love you guys more than you can imagine) And now, on with the show…
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I hang up the phone and turn to face Lorne and Wes. "Looks like they took the bait."
Lorne heaves a sigh of relief and Wesley removes his glasses to clean them, hesitantly pausing to ask, "Its all going according to plan, then?"
I nod and stalk back over to my seat, dropping myself down uselessly. "Yep. Now all we have to do is wait." I pause and furrow my brow. "Have I mentioned that I don't like this 'sitting duck' situation we've got going here?"
"Yes, Angelpie, you have." Lorne replies, ignoring my grimace at his choice of phrasing. "A *lot*. And, not to go all soul-reader on you or anything, but you need to take a chill pill or you're gonna blow a fuse stressing yourself like you keep doing."
"Actually," Wesley interrupts in his usual correcting tone, "Angel really *shouldn't* take a (air quote) chill pill (close air quote) as that seems to have dire consequences. You see, there was this case we were…er…*he* was working on a couple of years back, and the client wanted for Angel to *relax* a little, so that he might consider turning her…rather long story that…anyhow, she slipped this tablet into his drink and it simulated a temporary feeling of bliss and he temporarily lost his soul."
Lorne's eyes widen. "And he turned into Angelus?"
Wesley's beginning to get rapt up in his current conversation. He leans forward to the demon and nods matter-of-factly. "Yes. But I reasoned that the drug was only a false stimulant, so to speak, and deduced the fact that his soul would return." He puffs his chest out with pride and I can't help rolling my eyes.
I mean, Wes is great, don't get me wrong. He's one of my best friends…but I liked him a hell of a lot better when he wasn't so sure of himself. Its been my experience that when people get cocky, they have a higher chance of screwing up in a major sense, because they become too pig-headed to think their actions out with caution. I happen to be one of those people, I admit that. I'll also admit that I don't want to see Wes get into trouble when he gets too sure of himself.
I notice that Lorne is still listening to the ex-watcher with bated breath. Wesley continues. "But Angel…he said some…*interesting* things that night. He made some admissions that he tried to ensure Cordelia and I were just Angelus' attempts at cruelty…but what I realised was that the truth can be cruel. Angel was just telling the truth…a little more bluntly as Angelus than he usually would, but he was still being honest. He-"
That's it. I've had enough. "*He's* sitting right here." I emphasise, trying to take the attention away from that incident… which is in the *past*, might I add. "And Angelus *does* have a tendency to over-exaggerate too. I'll admit that *I* may sometimes under-exaggerate, but-"
"Guys! Bicker later!" Cordelia puffs, bursting through the double doors. "We've got bigger issues right about now."
You don't have to be Lorne to work out what Cordy's feeling or thinking at the moment. As strong as she's trying to look and act right now she's not fooling anyone, especially not me. All I have to do is take one look into those pretty hazel eyes and the fear and the anxiety jump out at me. I can sense it too…I know, vampires are trained to sense human emotions, especially fear and anxiety…afterall, most of us get off on it. The thrill of the chase and all… But, even Wesley has picked up on it because we both rush to her side, each taking an arm cautiously, and offer her glasses of water, asking if she needs to rest and so forth.
Cordelia shakes us off, glaring at us as if we've done something stupid and irritating. That look still breaks my heart. I hate it when I've done something wrong in her books. It's just another reminder that I'll never be good enough for her. Not as a champion. Not as a lover not as family and worst of all not as a friend. "I'm fine!" She snaps, bringing my attention back to the situation at hand.
Wesley nods and cleans his glasses…yet again, then moves back to his seat on the couch muttering something about just calling if she needed anything. Me on the other hand? I do the thing I do best and go into brood mode. "No." I say, shaking my head shortly in defiance. "You're not." I wait a few seconds to let my words settle and lower the harshness of my tone, still staying firm enough to act like an over-protective and slightly bossy big brother. "Now, are you going to *let* me get you a drink and a snack…or do we have to go through the whole 'tantrum and food throwing until you get bored and I can spoon feed you' thing that Connor and I go through every morning? 'cos that last one might be a little immature for you."
She rolls her eyes and smiles that captivating 1000-watt smile that only she can perfect. "Fine. I'll eat and get big and fat and-"
"You're gonna get fat anywa-" I trail off at the death stare that is suddenly being directed towards me. "That's *not* what I meant Cordy…I-I meant…you know…with the baby and… and…you know roundness…like Darla was…but in a glowing a-and alluring way…like…well…like you always…" I stop when I realise how much I'm humiliating myself right now. "Oh come on!" I say after a few seconds *after* working out the fact that she's enjoying watching me trying to squirm out of it. "You *know* what I meant."
"And yet he *still* manages to put his foot in it." She chuckles, sarcastically adding; "You've got a real way with girls, Angel. You know *exactly* what to say to get a girl to feel special."
I find myself laughing along with her, despite the nearing battle we've got coming up in a few minutes. That's the beauty of Cordelia. Even when another apocalypse is on its way, she manages to get you…okay *me* to loosen up. Its hard to believe that a mere 4 years ago, if someone would have told me that I'd wind up in LA as a detective working alongside an ex- watcher, former high-school queen of popularity, ex-street kid and eccentric physicist I would have laughed them off, especially if they would have told me that I would eventually fall in love with Cordelia. Cordelia of all people!
I allow the ghost of a smile to play across my lips when I remember the countless times she practically threw herself at me…*especially* the couple of times she literally *did* throw herself at me…after I'd been there when Buffy had saved her life. Of course that was all *before* the young, vain thing knew I was a vampire. Even back then, with all her vanity and that cruel persona, she was a beautiful creature…but I had been to wrapped up in Buffy to notice.
Even that fell flat.
We couldn't be together and I couldn't deal, so I ran out and left her. I left her and then that damn farm boy broke her heart. (I'm just gonna skip the whole 'me turning human and having the perfect life with her for 24 hours until I gave that up and turned back time' thing.) Then she died…again. So I did the grieving thing and what do you know? The scoobies brought her back to life. We met up to talk and I don't even want to go *there* again…but we were okay, y'know. As friends…or if not friends, Allies. But somewhere along the lines everything went haywire and I ended up with a kid and she…ended up with another 'neutered' vampire boyfriend…all whilst I was falling in love with Cordelia without even realising it.
Only in LA.
"So…" I turn to Cordy and begin, trying to focus again. "What do you feel like eating? We got…umm…" I lean into the 'human-fridge', as I have aptly labelled it, and rummage for something that might seem even slightly fit for human consumption. "Well, we don't have much there…hang on…" I close the door and start to sift through the freezer. "Ah ha! There we go…" I pull out a container of ice cream. "Double Choc-Chip Cookie Dough(1)." My own mouth waters at the thought of the dessert. Another reminder of the day that time forgot. It's a pity that my vampireness dulls my taste-buds for anything other than blood. That stuff was good. I wave the container around at her. "What do you say?"
She licks her lips and her eyes gleam. "Sounds great." She pats her stomach and grins sheepishly. "I didn't realise I was so hungry to tell the truth. And 'cold sugary melt in your mouth' goodness sounds perfect."
I chuckle and hand the tub over to her with a spoon. Its only half full and I don't think she's really eaten much today and that's not good for either her health or her baby's. She digs in gladly as we walk back to the others. I glance at the clock and realise that she won't be safe with us.
"Cordy," I say softly. "I think you should go *upstairs* and have a rest." I raise my eyebrows when I cautiously emphasise the word 'upstairs', trying to get the message across without being too obvious.
She catches on and nods, still clutching her chocolate flavoured prize like it might escape at any moment. "Sure. But Wolfram & Hart are up to something. And…" For what I can only hope is dramatic emphasis, tears well in her eyes and her voice becomes shaky. "And Lindsey went back to them. I- I think he told them everything and-"
Once again I catch on and take my cue by pulling her into my arms and holding her reassuringly. "Cordelia…" I manage (I'm getting used to this improv. stuff) "I promise you that I won't let him hurt anyone. I'll kill him for this, you know that." She brings her teary hazel gaze up to meet mine. I lean my forehead against hers softly, looking into her eyes, searching her soul for understanding and a sense of peace…or, if not peace, hope. "He'll die for what he's done to you." I don't say anything else. I want so much for this part to be real.
Yes, I'm selfish…but I think that for once in my unlife I have the right to be.
Secretly I wish that Lindsey really had set us up. I would love to be able to kill him and have a reason that Cordy *won't* hate me for. Problem is, I know that'll never happen. I can see the truth in his eyes every time he looks at her. He loves her, like I do. And I know that if it ever comes to it, he'll give up his life in an instant if it would help her. I'm the same on that one as well. He's not a bad thing for her, I'll admit that. I'll admit that he will give her everything she needs and deserves and more. He can give her that 'almost normal' life that she's always craved…and I can still be her champion. (At least that's one thing that he'll never be for her.) But somewhere deep down inside, I know that he's going to be good for her…and that's still all that matters.
I find myself guiding Cordelia to her room in a comfortable silence. We pass Spike and his group on the way and he gives me the thumbs up and a wink. 'Everything's gonna be okay' is the message he's sending.
'I hope so, Spike. I *really* hope so.' I reply with a slow nod, allowing my angst to show in my eyes.
Suddenly, my beeper goes off and I just about jump a mile. I pull it out of my overcoat pocket and glance at it, furrowing my brow as I do. "Showtime." I explain, turning swiftly and gliding back down the stairs and into the lobby.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Why is it that I always seem to be the one doing all the sneaking?"
"Angel," Wes hisses, "If you don't mind, would you please shut up? You can complain another time, like when, I don't know, we are *not* trying to enter the Wolfram and Hart building from the top floor." He looks down queasily and gulps.
We are currently standing on one of those window cleaning hoisty things, trying to break into the top (and least guarded) floor of the extremely large law firm. This floor is obviously being remodelled or re- vamped…pardon the pun. It's completely deserted. There are big white sheets covering the furniture, pots of paint and paintbrushes and other miscellaneous items scattered on the floor that you'd expect to see when re- modelling any form of building. And, to our advantage, it seems as though all the security cameras have been disconnected.
I let out a low whistle as we finally manage to unhinge the window and climb in, much to Wesley's relief. "God…these senior partners must have more money than they know how to handle." I mutter, lifting one of the sheets to glance a beautiful antique desk, probably hand crafted in the early 17th century. "Look at this stuff, it seems like such a waste…"
"Angel," Wes cautions, "We're here for a specific reason. And may I remind you, it is not to ogle the furniture, or the…oh my…this is completely remarkable."
I manage to stifle my chuckle, and shake my head as I watch him being drawn to an old bookcase. His eyes swoop over the rather eccentric looking titles. He lets out a small squeak of what I can only place as excitement as he pulls a large dusty volume of the shelf.
"My god, Angel. Do you have any idea what this is?" He breathes.
I shrug. "Not really…but I have a feeling you're going to tell me."
"It's the only copy of its kind, thought to be lost for an entire millennium…This book not only contains a collection of prophecies, but also translations for languages and texts that are impossible to read without the accompaniment of this very book." His eyes gleam as he clutches his prize to his chest. "This very book is essentially the key to translating every prophecy and ritual in existence…including those from other dimensions and whatnot…We simply must not leave this behind. Lord only knows what might happen if Wolfram and Hart were left with it for the rest of eternity, especially if they know its secrets, which I doubt because it would most definitely be locked in the very safe we are trying to access tonight…" He holds it even tighter. "I can't wait to learn how to access its power once we get back…Can you imagine the possibilities?"
"Breathe Wesley." I find myself instructing him. "As exciting as this is, we really do have to focus here. First we save lives *THEN* we can think of the possibilities." I stalk over and take the book from him. It's a distraction to him and distractions can prove to be fatal, even if they are only an old book. I tuck it into my weapons bag, where I know it'll be safe.
"You're completely right." He replies, still staring longingly at my weaponry, until he has to physically shake himself out of it. He looks back at me, his jaw set in determination. "Willow and Fred *have* taken care of the security footage on the other floors, haven't they?"
I nod. "Yeah."
"Good. Lets get this done then."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
The building shakes violently and bits of the plaster are starting to crumble from the walls and ceiling. I swallow and look over at Wesley. "Come on! We've gotta get out of here NOW! Please tell me you're finished doing whatever it is you were supposed to be doing."
He finishes placing the last of the valuable items (including scrolls, weapons, big heavy books and an assortment of Wolfram and Hart's files) into his knapsack and rises, dusting his hands off as a sign of a successful completion. "Right then." He rushes "All done. Time to go."
He runs to my side and together we speed through the building, leaping down the flights of stairs like there's no tomorrow. Come to think of it, if we don't get out in time, there really *won't* be a tomorrow.
We've made it to the ground floor and sprint through the lobby and fly straight through the double glass doors, both of us escaping with minor cuts and bruises. We don't pause, though. Instead we flee from the rapidly crumbling law firm to Buffy's car, which is parked in an alley a couple of streets away. It seemed only logical that we take hers, as Wolfram and Hart would be kinda suspicious if: a) my car wasn't at the hotel and b) Buffy's car was.
As we near the 4-wheel drive, the ground shakes as the building obviously collapses. The sound can be heard for a mile or so, I'm sure of it. The police and rescue teams will be there in no time…but they'll still be too late. I know, I killed some humans in there tonight…and a bunch of demons…not to mention the lawyers that were working late. But, when I look at the big picture, I can't feel angst over this. Those were evil beings. They were planning on taking me and mine out ASAP and I know that the PTBs will see it fit to skim over it as a trivial detail. I mean, I've done far worse in my time. *This* little act was nothing, really…*and* it was to save the lives of many good people that work for the PTBs as well. The long- term good of this far out-weighs the short-term bad.
I'm sorry if I can't feel guilty for taking those lives. I'm sorry if I should feel the remorse and pain for the families that are probably quite innocent and I've just taken their loved ones from them, but I really can't. I've rid the world of a fair bit of evil tonight. Plus, I've ensured the lives of those closest to me will be safe for the time being…from W&H at any rate.
But, if the Powers really feel that I need to pay for it, I will understand. So I'll have a few more years added before I shanshu. I don't mind. A small price to pay for the fact that Wolfram and Hart is gone. They've lost their files, their most precious possessions and a large portion of their crew…not to mention their home office.
I still don't think the PTBs will hold this against me…I've done them a favour. But, I won't get my hopes up yet. Those guys are really unpredictable. I just can't stop thinking that this actually worked.
Wes and I are in the car now, both beaming from ear to ear as we travel in the opposite direction, watching the ambulances, police cars and fire trucks speed past us. Suddenly the air between us is split with an ear- piercing, high-pitched ringing.
It takes me a few seconds to realise that it's my cell. I flip open the receiver and answer with a cheery "Hello?"
"Hey Angel." Willow's voice crackles in my ear. Bad reception. Yet, I can still note the edge of panic in her voice.
"Willow," I reply, allowing my own voice to become serious, noting to Wesley that all does not seem to be well on the other side of our plan. He looks at me, solemn once more, mouthing the words to me as I as them to Willow. "What's wrong?"
"We've got trouble…I know that everything went well for you guys, but here its gotten really crazy. Tara and I have been using all our strength trying to keep our spells for protection and keeping us hidden going strong…but we can't keep it up forever and downstairs isn't looking too good." She hastily informs me. "I'm watching it on the monitor we set up with our own bugging system and…" She gasps and goes deathly silent.
"Willow?" I prompt. "Willow?!" I'm getting really worried. "Willow! What's going on? Speak to me!"
A strangled moan erupts over the line. "Oh my God…Angel…please you have to get here…" A shriek followed by the word "Xander!" and a bunch of sobs.
I fear the worst. "Willow…" I say, my tone somewhere between instructing her to listen to me and trying to soothe her. "Will, what just happened?"
The redhead starts to reply. "T-they ju-" and the line goes dead. I call her name a few times and realise that it's pointless.
Tossing my phone aside in frustration, I put my foot on the gas and take off towards the Hyperion. It's not over yet and now my people are in serious trouble.
'And everything was going so well.' I think to myself.
Wesley glances at me through the rear view mirror, although due to my lack of reflection it looks as if he's looking at en empty seat. "What's going on?" He asks.
"I don't know." I tell him in all honesty, "But its bad."
"It always is." He murmurs. "Always."
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(1)- I hope I got that right. I haven't seen the ep. where he finally got to taste the real goodness of ice-cream (among other things) since it was first aired here in Oz like 2 years ago or more…and seeing as we don't have that particular type here, I think I need special consideration if I got it wrong. ^_^
A/N- well… I don't know what you're thinking now…But I'd sure love to. I was thinking that I might even leave this chapter as the chilling and suspenseful ending. Not that many people are reviewing anymore, so its like you've all lost interest. No matter. You don't want me to continue, I don't mind. However, if you *do* want me to continue, you *have* to tell me. Please post your review. PLEASE. I'm seriously getting the vibe you don't want it. ^_^ thanks again. Bye for now.
Oh! Oh! PS- Please read 'Drawn To You' by Angelic Devils (Mrs O-Town and I). It's a C/A one and is set in an Alternate Reality, so there are no monsters. Everyone is completely human and Cordy's engaged to…Actually that's for you to find out. ^_^ Please read and review it. I'll be eternally grateful. ^_^
I'm returning a favour for her now. READ MRS OTOWN'S FICS! (See…this is an ad for her fics, which are excellent. I love 'em *and* the Angel ones are A/C like sooo many of you have been campaigning for. ^_^)
^_^ Umm…so this chapter is probably crap, but I wrote it and I *need* reviews! I really need reviews ppl! I'm not just sayin' it! (PS-*big* thanx to those of you that reviewed the last couple of chapters. I love you guys more than you can imagine) And now, on with the show…
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I hang up the phone and turn to face Lorne and Wes. "Looks like they took the bait."
Lorne heaves a sigh of relief and Wesley removes his glasses to clean them, hesitantly pausing to ask, "Its all going according to plan, then?"
I nod and stalk back over to my seat, dropping myself down uselessly. "Yep. Now all we have to do is wait." I pause and furrow my brow. "Have I mentioned that I don't like this 'sitting duck' situation we've got going here?"
"Yes, Angelpie, you have." Lorne replies, ignoring my grimace at his choice of phrasing. "A *lot*. And, not to go all soul-reader on you or anything, but you need to take a chill pill or you're gonna blow a fuse stressing yourself like you keep doing."
"Actually," Wesley interrupts in his usual correcting tone, "Angel really *shouldn't* take a (air quote) chill pill (close air quote) as that seems to have dire consequences. You see, there was this case we were…er…*he* was working on a couple of years back, and the client wanted for Angel to *relax* a little, so that he might consider turning her…rather long story that…anyhow, she slipped this tablet into his drink and it simulated a temporary feeling of bliss and he temporarily lost his soul."
Lorne's eyes widen. "And he turned into Angelus?"
Wesley's beginning to get rapt up in his current conversation. He leans forward to the demon and nods matter-of-factly. "Yes. But I reasoned that the drug was only a false stimulant, so to speak, and deduced the fact that his soul would return." He puffs his chest out with pride and I can't help rolling my eyes.
I mean, Wes is great, don't get me wrong. He's one of my best friends…but I liked him a hell of a lot better when he wasn't so sure of himself. Its been my experience that when people get cocky, they have a higher chance of screwing up in a major sense, because they become too pig-headed to think their actions out with caution. I happen to be one of those people, I admit that. I'll also admit that I don't want to see Wes get into trouble when he gets too sure of himself.
I notice that Lorne is still listening to the ex-watcher with bated breath. Wesley continues. "But Angel…he said some…*interesting* things that night. He made some admissions that he tried to ensure Cordelia and I were just Angelus' attempts at cruelty…but what I realised was that the truth can be cruel. Angel was just telling the truth…a little more bluntly as Angelus than he usually would, but he was still being honest. He-"
That's it. I've had enough. "*He's* sitting right here." I emphasise, trying to take the attention away from that incident… which is in the *past*, might I add. "And Angelus *does* have a tendency to over-exaggerate too. I'll admit that *I* may sometimes under-exaggerate, but-"
"Guys! Bicker later!" Cordelia puffs, bursting through the double doors. "We've got bigger issues right about now."
You don't have to be Lorne to work out what Cordy's feeling or thinking at the moment. As strong as she's trying to look and act right now she's not fooling anyone, especially not me. All I have to do is take one look into those pretty hazel eyes and the fear and the anxiety jump out at me. I can sense it too…I know, vampires are trained to sense human emotions, especially fear and anxiety…afterall, most of us get off on it. The thrill of the chase and all… But, even Wesley has picked up on it because we both rush to her side, each taking an arm cautiously, and offer her glasses of water, asking if she needs to rest and so forth.
Cordelia shakes us off, glaring at us as if we've done something stupid and irritating. That look still breaks my heart. I hate it when I've done something wrong in her books. It's just another reminder that I'll never be good enough for her. Not as a champion. Not as a lover not as family and worst of all not as a friend. "I'm fine!" She snaps, bringing my attention back to the situation at hand.
Wesley nods and cleans his glasses…yet again, then moves back to his seat on the couch muttering something about just calling if she needed anything. Me on the other hand? I do the thing I do best and go into brood mode. "No." I say, shaking my head shortly in defiance. "You're not." I wait a few seconds to let my words settle and lower the harshness of my tone, still staying firm enough to act like an over-protective and slightly bossy big brother. "Now, are you going to *let* me get you a drink and a snack…or do we have to go through the whole 'tantrum and food throwing until you get bored and I can spoon feed you' thing that Connor and I go through every morning? 'cos that last one might be a little immature for you."
She rolls her eyes and smiles that captivating 1000-watt smile that only she can perfect. "Fine. I'll eat and get big and fat and-"
"You're gonna get fat anywa-" I trail off at the death stare that is suddenly being directed towards me. "That's *not* what I meant Cordy…I-I meant…you know…with the baby and… and…you know roundness…like Darla was…but in a glowing a-and alluring way…like…well…like you always…" I stop when I realise how much I'm humiliating myself right now. "Oh come on!" I say after a few seconds *after* working out the fact that she's enjoying watching me trying to squirm out of it. "You *know* what I meant."
"And yet he *still* manages to put his foot in it." She chuckles, sarcastically adding; "You've got a real way with girls, Angel. You know *exactly* what to say to get a girl to feel special."
I find myself laughing along with her, despite the nearing battle we've got coming up in a few minutes. That's the beauty of Cordelia. Even when another apocalypse is on its way, she manages to get you…okay *me* to loosen up. Its hard to believe that a mere 4 years ago, if someone would have told me that I'd wind up in LA as a detective working alongside an ex- watcher, former high-school queen of popularity, ex-street kid and eccentric physicist I would have laughed them off, especially if they would have told me that I would eventually fall in love with Cordelia. Cordelia of all people!
I allow the ghost of a smile to play across my lips when I remember the countless times she practically threw herself at me…*especially* the couple of times she literally *did* throw herself at me…after I'd been there when Buffy had saved her life. Of course that was all *before* the young, vain thing knew I was a vampire. Even back then, with all her vanity and that cruel persona, she was a beautiful creature…but I had been to wrapped up in Buffy to notice.
Even that fell flat.
We couldn't be together and I couldn't deal, so I ran out and left her. I left her and then that damn farm boy broke her heart. (I'm just gonna skip the whole 'me turning human and having the perfect life with her for 24 hours until I gave that up and turned back time' thing.) Then she died…again. So I did the grieving thing and what do you know? The scoobies brought her back to life. We met up to talk and I don't even want to go *there* again…but we were okay, y'know. As friends…or if not friends, Allies. But somewhere along the lines everything went haywire and I ended up with a kid and she…ended up with another 'neutered' vampire boyfriend…all whilst I was falling in love with Cordelia without even realising it.
Only in LA.
"So…" I turn to Cordy and begin, trying to focus again. "What do you feel like eating? We got…umm…" I lean into the 'human-fridge', as I have aptly labelled it, and rummage for something that might seem even slightly fit for human consumption. "Well, we don't have much there…hang on…" I close the door and start to sift through the freezer. "Ah ha! There we go…" I pull out a container of ice cream. "Double Choc-Chip Cookie Dough(1)." My own mouth waters at the thought of the dessert. Another reminder of the day that time forgot. It's a pity that my vampireness dulls my taste-buds for anything other than blood. That stuff was good. I wave the container around at her. "What do you say?"
She licks her lips and her eyes gleam. "Sounds great." She pats her stomach and grins sheepishly. "I didn't realise I was so hungry to tell the truth. And 'cold sugary melt in your mouth' goodness sounds perfect."
I chuckle and hand the tub over to her with a spoon. Its only half full and I don't think she's really eaten much today and that's not good for either her health or her baby's. She digs in gladly as we walk back to the others. I glance at the clock and realise that she won't be safe with us.
"Cordy," I say softly. "I think you should go *upstairs* and have a rest." I raise my eyebrows when I cautiously emphasise the word 'upstairs', trying to get the message across without being too obvious.
She catches on and nods, still clutching her chocolate flavoured prize like it might escape at any moment. "Sure. But Wolfram & Hart are up to something. And…" For what I can only hope is dramatic emphasis, tears well in her eyes and her voice becomes shaky. "And Lindsey went back to them. I- I think he told them everything and-"
Once again I catch on and take my cue by pulling her into my arms and holding her reassuringly. "Cordelia…" I manage (I'm getting used to this improv. stuff) "I promise you that I won't let him hurt anyone. I'll kill him for this, you know that." She brings her teary hazel gaze up to meet mine. I lean my forehead against hers softly, looking into her eyes, searching her soul for understanding and a sense of peace…or, if not peace, hope. "He'll die for what he's done to you." I don't say anything else. I want so much for this part to be real.
Yes, I'm selfish…but I think that for once in my unlife I have the right to be.
Secretly I wish that Lindsey really had set us up. I would love to be able to kill him and have a reason that Cordy *won't* hate me for. Problem is, I know that'll never happen. I can see the truth in his eyes every time he looks at her. He loves her, like I do. And I know that if it ever comes to it, he'll give up his life in an instant if it would help her. I'm the same on that one as well. He's not a bad thing for her, I'll admit that. I'll admit that he will give her everything she needs and deserves and more. He can give her that 'almost normal' life that she's always craved…and I can still be her champion. (At least that's one thing that he'll never be for her.) But somewhere deep down inside, I know that he's going to be good for her…and that's still all that matters.
I find myself guiding Cordelia to her room in a comfortable silence. We pass Spike and his group on the way and he gives me the thumbs up and a wink. 'Everything's gonna be okay' is the message he's sending.
'I hope so, Spike. I *really* hope so.' I reply with a slow nod, allowing my angst to show in my eyes.
Suddenly, my beeper goes off and I just about jump a mile. I pull it out of my overcoat pocket and glance at it, furrowing my brow as I do. "Showtime." I explain, turning swiftly and gliding back down the stairs and into the lobby.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Why is it that I always seem to be the one doing all the sneaking?"
"Angel," Wes hisses, "If you don't mind, would you please shut up? You can complain another time, like when, I don't know, we are *not* trying to enter the Wolfram and Hart building from the top floor." He looks down queasily and gulps.
We are currently standing on one of those window cleaning hoisty things, trying to break into the top (and least guarded) floor of the extremely large law firm. This floor is obviously being remodelled or re- vamped…pardon the pun. It's completely deserted. There are big white sheets covering the furniture, pots of paint and paintbrushes and other miscellaneous items scattered on the floor that you'd expect to see when re- modelling any form of building. And, to our advantage, it seems as though all the security cameras have been disconnected.
I let out a low whistle as we finally manage to unhinge the window and climb in, much to Wesley's relief. "God…these senior partners must have more money than they know how to handle." I mutter, lifting one of the sheets to glance a beautiful antique desk, probably hand crafted in the early 17th century. "Look at this stuff, it seems like such a waste…"
"Angel," Wes cautions, "We're here for a specific reason. And may I remind you, it is not to ogle the furniture, or the…oh my…this is completely remarkable."
I manage to stifle my chuckle, and shake my head as I watch him being drawn to an old bookcase. His eyes swoop over the rather eccentric looking titles. He lets out a small squeak of what I can only place as excitement as he pulls a large dusty volume of the shelf.
"My god, Angel. Do you have any idea what this is?" He breathes.
I shrug. "Not really…but I have a feeling you're going to tell me."
"It's the only copy of its kind, thought to be lost for an entire millennium…This book not only contains a collection of prophecies, but also translations for languages and texts that are impossible to read without the accompaniment of this very book." His eyes gleam as he clutches his prize to his chest. "This very book is essentially the key to translating every prophecy and ritual in existence…including those from other dimensions and whatnot…We simply must not leave this behind. Lord only knows what might happen if Wolfram and Hart were left with it for the rest of eternity, especially if they know its secrets, which I doubt because it would most definitely be locked in the very safe we are trying to access tonight…" He holds it even tighter. "I can't wait to learn how to access its power once we get back…Can you imagine the possibilities?"
"Breathe Wesley." I find myself instructing him. "As exciting as this is, we really do have to focus here. First we save lives *THEN* we can think of the possibilities." I stalk over and take the book from him. It's a distraction to him and distractions can prove to be fatal, even if they are only an old book. I tuck it into my weapons bag, where I know it'll be safe.
"You're completely right." He replies, still staring longingly at my weaponry, until he has to physically shake himself out of it. He looks back at me, his jaw set in determination. "Willow and Fred *have* taken care of the security footage on the other floors, haven't they?"
I nod. "Yeah."
"Good. Lets get this done then."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
The building shakes violently and bits of the plaster are starting to crumble from the walls and ceiling. I swallow and look over at Wesley. "Come on! We've gotta get out of here NOW! Please tell me you're finished doing whatever it is you were supposed to be doing."
He finishes placing the last of the valuable items (including scrolls, weapons, big heavy books and an assortment of Wolfram and Hart's files) into his knapsack and rises, dusting his hands off as a sign of a successful completion. "Right then." He rushes "All done. Time to go."
He runs to my side and together we speed through the building, leaping down the flights of stairs like there's no tomorrow. Come to think of it, if we don't get out in time, there really *won't* be a tomorrow.
We've made it to the ground floor and sprint through the lobby and fly straight through the double glass doors, both of us escaping with minor cuts and bruises. We don't pause, though. Instead we flee from the rapidly crumbling law firm to Buffy's car, which is parked in an alley a couple of streets away. It seemed only logical that we take hers, as Wolfram and Hart would be kinda suspicious if: a) my car wasn't at the hotel and b) Buffy's car was.
As we near the 4-wheel drive, the ground shakes as the building obviously collapses. The sound can be heard for a mile or so, I'm sure of it. The police and rescue teams will be there in no time…but they'll still be too late. I know, I killed some humans in there tonight…and a bunch of demons…not to mention the lawyers that were working late. But, when I look at the big picture, I can't feel angst over this. Those were evil beings. They were planning on taking me and mine out ASAP and I know that the PTBs will see it fit to skim over it as a trivial detail. I mean, I've done far worse in my time. *This* little act was nothing, really…*and* it was to save the lives of many good people that work for the PTBs as well. The long- term good of this far out-weighs the short-term bad.
I'm sorry if I can't feel guilty for taking those lives. I'm sorry if I should feel the remorse and pain for the families that are probably quite innocent and I've just taken their loved ones from them, but I really can't. I've rid the world of a fair bit of evil tonight. Plus, I've ensured the lives of those closest to me will be safe for the time being…from W&H at any rate.
But, if the Powers really feel that I need to pay for it, I will understand. So I'll have a few more years added before I shanshu. I don't mind. A small price to pay for the fact that Wolfram and Hart is gone. They've lost their files, their most precious possessions and a large portion of their crew…not to mention their home office.
I still don't think the PTBs will hold this against me…I've done them a favour. But, I won't get my hopes up yet. Those guys are really unpredictable. I just can't stop thinking that this actually worked.
Wes and I are in the car now, both beaming from ear to ear as we travel in the opposite direction, watching the ambulances, police cars and fire trucks speed past us. Suddenly the air between us is split with an ear- piercing, high-pitched ringing.
It takes me a few seconds to realise that it's my cell. I flip open the receiver and answer with a cheery "Hello?"
"Hey Angel." Willow's voice crackles in my ear. Bad reception. Yet, I can still note the edge of panic in her voice.
"Willow," I reply, allowing my own voice to become serious, noting to Wesley that all does not seem to be well on the other side of our plan. He looks at me, solemn once more, mouthing the words to me as I as them to Willow. "What's wrong?"
"We've got trouble…I know that everything went well for you guys, but here its gotten really crazy. Tara and I have been using all our strength trying to keep our spells for protection and keeping us hidden going strong…but we can't keep it up forever and downstairs isn't looking too good." She hastily informs me. "I'm watching it on the monitor we set up with our own bugging system and…" She gasps and goes deathly silent.
"Willow?" I prompt. "Willow?!" I'm getting really worried. "Willow! What's going on? Speak to me!"
A strangled moan erupts over the line. "Oh my God…Angel…please you have to get here…" A shriek followed by the word "Xander!" and a bunch of sobs.
I fear the worst. "Willow…" I say, my tone somewhere between instructing her to listen to me and trying to soothe her. "Will, what just happened?"
The redhead starts to reply. "T-they ju-" and the line goes dead. I call her name a few times and realise that it's pointless.
Tossing my phone aside in frustration, I put my foot on the gas and take off towards the Hyperion. It's not over yet and now my people are in serious trouble.
'And everything was going so well.' I think to myself.
Wesley glances at me through the rear view mirror, although due to my lack of reflection it looks as if he's looking at en empty seat. "What's going on?" He asks.
"I don't know." I tell him in all honesty, "But its bad."
"It always is." He murmurs. "Always."
*******************************************
(1)- I hope I got that right. I haven't seen the ep. where he finally got to taste the real goodness of ice-cream (among other things) since it was first aired here in Oz like 2 years ago or more…and seeing as we don't have that particular type here, I think I need special consideration if I got it wrong. ^_^
A/N- well… I don't know what you're thinking now…But I'd sure love to. I was thinking that I might even leave this chapter as the chilling and suspenseful ending. Not that many people are reviewing anymore, so its like you've all lost interest. No matter. You don't want me to continue, I don't mind. However, if you *do* want me to continue, you *have* to tell me. Please post your review. PLEASE. I'm seriously getting the vibe you don't want it. ^_^ thanks again. Bye for now.
Oh! Oh! PS- Please read 'Drawn To You' by Angelic Devils (Mrs O-Town and I). It's a C/A one and is set in an Alternate Reality, so there are no monsters. Everyone is completely human and Cordy's engaged to…Actually that's for you to find out. ^_^ Please read and review it. I'll be eternally grateful. ^_^