A/N *Insane1*- Well.what with the recent FF.N dilemmas and all.I don't
think we're gonna hold it against you guys for not being able to review. I
know that I have wanted to review a few fics out there but haven't been
able to.And don't even get me started on the uploading inability! ^_^
Anyway.what's past is just that and I, for one, look forward to future
reviews. You guys have been absolutely brilliant and I love getting your
feedback! I'm sure Mrs O does as well. ^_^ So once u've read this chapter I
urger you to say a little something to us about it. Love it? Hate it?
Couldn't care less? Let us know. Thanks. Now.onto the brains of the
operation.Mrs O!
A/N *Mrs O*- Grrr argh! I've had the worse few weeks with FF.N buggering up! It wasn't too bad though; I actually went outside for once! My parents realised why they bought me a computer in the first place.so they could have some peace and quiet! Ah well! I like writing this chapter too, especially the dialogues. Insane1 and me had fun doing them. *Grins* ^_^ Sorry, memories of the conversations and us getting sidetracked envisioning Angel in- I'm not going to ruin it for you, but I swear it'll make you grin! ^_^. P.S: I'm not really the brains of this operation, but since it's a compliment, I'll take it! ^_^ We love feedback.we thrive on it.so review to keep your two favourite authors alive!
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"Cordelia!" Angel called, turning the corner just in time to see the brunette beauty enter her room and close the door. He didn't hear everything his so-called best friend had said.but for some reason, he knew it couldn't have been good. Reaching room 109, Angel knocked on the door gently. "Cordelia." He called. No answer. "Cordy.I don't know what he said.but I'm so sorry. I don't know what to tell you.can we talk? Please?"
Cordelia leant against the door in a state of shock. Was Gunn right? Was Angel actually falling for her? If it was true, she'd kick herself. This was supposed to be her 2 weeks of fun. Instead she was successfully attempting to ruin her upcoming marriage before it even started.
And Angel? This situation made her feel even worse. She was toying with his emotions. This was another human being and she had been using him for her own pleasure, not really pausing to think of how it all might affect him.
Should she answer the door? Should she talk with him? Her mind raced. This was not the vacation she'd intended on, that was for sure. She stood upright painfully, her ankle was throbbing from her brisk walk.er.limp from Angel's room and she didn't know how much longer she could hold herself up on it. Turning to face the door and biting her bottom lip in an attempt to ignore and hide the evidence of the pain, she took a deep breath and reached for the handle.
Angel had just about given up hope. He'd been seriously interested in this girl, which was a strange concept for him, and his very own best friend had ruined it. Giving the door one last painstaking glance, he turned to walk back down the hall.
"Angel?"
He turned at her voice, his heart doing somersaults in his chest. She was actually going to talk to him. He began to walk towards her cautiously, as if any sudden movement would startle her and cause her to retreat. "Cordelia." He began softly, "I.I'm sorry. For whatever Gunn said. He didn't have any right to treat you that way. I'm totally ash-"
By now he was standing directly in front of her and she reached a slender finger to his lips to silence him. "I know." She told him, sounding depressed and defeated. Gunn would *definitely* pay for this. Hurting his feelings was one thing.but hers? That was totally and completely- "But he was right."
Angel's thoughts were shut down immediately. He was shocked. "I.he.Huh?"
The tiniest smile crept onto her lips and he would have given the world to kiss her right then and there. But he didn't. Instead, he allowed her to explain where her absurd comment had come from. "He made a point Angel.I have to tell you." Her face contorted in pain and Angel watched as her ankle buckled beneath her. He lunged forward just in time to catch her before she hit the ground.
"Cordy." He breathed, now completely concerned. "You okay?"
She nodded and fought back the tears. Her ankle hurt really badly, but she was too stubborn to admit it. "Uh-huh." She tried to smile but it looked more like a wince. "I'm fine.I guess I kinda slipped. I'm all good." She tried to push herself out of his strong arms, and gingerly placed her injured foot back on the ground. A shockwave of pain raced up her body and she cried out.
"Sure you are." Angel replied, his disbelief evident. "You must have done some extra damage when you raced back here. Come on.There's no way you're gonna be able to make it back into your room yourself." He swept her off her feet in one smooth motion, taking in the soft, sweet scent of her perfume as he did. He was officially in heaven.
"Angel." Cordelia protested weakly, knowing he was right. She sighed; giving him the sign that she was surrendering her argument. Leaning against his chest as he struggled to open the door, she breathed in and the faint, lingering scent of his cologne filled her senses, making her feel all tingly inside. This time, however, Cordelia smiled at her thoughts. There was nothing smutty about them. She just felt.content.
Was that wrong?
Well.it was when she remembered her loving fiancé.but this feeling.It was so new. Not even Groo had made her feel this happy.and he *knew* how to make a girl happy. This was the first time Cordelia Chase had ever allowed herself to be swept off her feet (.pretty much literally at the moment.) by anyone she'd just met. It took her months to trust Groo half as much as she did Angel right now, and it had taken her even longer with Xander.but that hadn't turned out well, so it didn't count.
Perhaps the reason she felt so comfortable with Angel was the fact that she wasn't serious. She didn't see a future with him. Well.she *hadn't* seen a future with him. She could with Groo.she still did.and it scared her. It proved that things were serious and it was deeper than she'd ever been before.it gave him an even stronger chance to break her heart and humiliate her.and that scared her. This thing with Angel.it was *her* holding all the cards. She knew it wasn't a big thing and she could go home to a man that loved her very, very much.
'That doesn't make any sense Cordy.' Her mind told her. 'The fact is, you *are* scared of your future with Groo.but its not because he can hurt you and Angel can't. Angel can hurt you just as much.maybe more. And do you know why? Because you don't love Groo. You never have and you never can. You just don't feel the spark.and that makes you uncomfortable. That's what scares you. The fact that you can't admit to yourself that he's not the one.even though you'd give anything for him to be. But Angel.you feel the spark.' She bit down on her lip again as she realised everything all at once. She didn't want it to be true.but she knew it was. She'd tried to hide from this realisation for a while now, and it had finally caught up with her. She tried to shake the thoughts away, but her head was determined to have the last say in the matter. 'Why have you just been able to trust Angel like this.to feel so warm and fuzzy around him? You know the answer. You're falling in love with him. Of course you've never felt this way before.You've never been in love. You couldn't admit to loving Groo, not even when he proposed.because you couldn't lie to yourself.or to him. This feeling of contentment is part of love. Admit it Cordelia. You're falling for this guy. Don't let him slip away.' She swallowed and closed her eyes, subconsciously snuggling against Angel's chest while he closed the door and slowly walked her into her bedroom. 'This is love. You're finally in love.'
"Cordelia."
Her eyes fluttered open at the sound of his voice. "Hmmm?" She said sleepily, trying to focus her gaze. He was sitting on the bed in front of her, leaning over her face ever so slightly.
He smiled a lopsided smile. Her heart did backflips and one single thought kept running through her head. ('This is love. You're finally in love.') "Hey." He said, his voice thick with concern, compassion and laced with that lovey-dovey vibe Groo used to use. "I didn't mean to wake you-"
"-I was asleep?"
He chuckled. "I guess those painkillers *really* did knock you out then."
She grinned sheepishly. "I guess." Inwardly she wondered 'Okay.when were there painkillers?'
"How does your ankle feel now?" Angel asked, suddenly in total concern mode again. She'd seemed in so much pain last night that she couldn't really think properly. No matter how many times he'd asked her something, *anything*, she'd mumble incoherently. He'd spent about ten minutes watching the silent tears slip down her perfect face, which was wrinkled in pain, and decided to do something.*anything* to help. So he'd retrieved the box of painkillers that was sitting on her kitchen bench and had miraculously managed to get her to down a couple, assuring her that she'd feel better soon. Then she'd fallen asleep and he'd left her to rest while he gathered his thoughts.and some ice to stop the swelling. Not wanting to go back to his room last night, he'd curled up on the chair and drifted off. Once he'd woken up, he fetched some more ice and came in to check up on her. Now she was awake and he wanted to know if his 'mothering skills' had paid off.
She smiled at him. "Oh.much less pain. Barely any." She told him and glanced at the clock on the bedside table. Letting out a small gasp, she exclaimed, "I was out all night?"
He nodded. "Yeah.I slept on the couch.I hope you don't mind.It's just with the Gunn situation and-"
She waved him off, suddenly very alert. "No! No problem." She sat herself up and moved to get out of bed. The second her foot hit the ground a new wave of pain ran through her and she yelped.
Angel shook his head sympathetically. "I hate to say it, but you kinda worsened the extent of your sprain last night and you probably won't be able to walk around much.or at all. for the next day or so."
"Oh."
"I'm so sorry." He blurted out. "Its all my fault. I mean, if I hadn't have- "
She cut him short. "How? How is it your fault? Angel.these things happen. I don't think its anyone's fault."
"But-"
"But what? I don't want to hear it. It was an accident and I'll be fine. Plus." She grinned. "This gives me an excuse to get room service."
"Well.then let me pay for it." He said, pushing the issue. "I mean.I still feel so awful I keep ruining things for you and-"
"No!" She stopped him once again. "I told you, it's fine. And you will not be paying for anything. In fact, you will not be sticking around at all. You are going to go outside and enjoy your vacation. Got it?"
"But I-"
"Angel." She growled menacingly. "I'm fine. Go and enjoy your holiday." He looked torn, but she pointed for him to leave. "Out." She ordered.
He slumped his shoulders in defeat. "Fine." He replied as he left. "But I'll be back to check up on you. If you need anything.anything at all.my cell number's right next to the phone." And with one last look at the girl, Angel walked out.
*
"Sir." The clerk behind the counter looked up at him like he was deranged. "Are you sure.What I mean to ask is.You want *these*? I don't mean to be disrespectful, but.you don't look like the type that would.erm. enjoy them."
Angel looked down at the boy and smiled. "They're not really for me. They're for a lady friend." He replied.
Immediately, the boy broke into a knowing grin and nodded. "Gotcha." Then proceeded to scan the items through for Angel.
*
"Knock Knock." Angel said, lightly tapping on the door as he entered Cordelia's room. "Anyone home?"
"What?" Her voice called back. "Angel? What are you doing back here? I told you to get out and have fun.you said you would." He smiled down at her as he walked into her bedroom, but she glared up at him and pointed to the clock. "That was only 15 minutes ago!"
He shrugged. "What can I say? I tried to have fun.but I couldn't knowing that you were up here all alone with no-one to share room service with." He extended his arms. "Plus.I come bearing gifts."
Cordelia couldn't help breaking into laughter. When he looked confused and slightly hurt, she explained with a smile. "I'm sorry.I didn't mean to laugh.its just nobody's ever hired 'Chicken Run' out for me before."
He looked a little sheepish. "I didn't know what kind of movies you liked.so I kinda tried to get one in each genre. See, we got 'Chicken Run'." He shuddered. He wasn't really a big fan of chickens. For the strangest reason, they gave him the wiggins. "Uh. ' Moulin Rouge'. 'Cruel Intentions'. 'House on Haunted Hill (2000 version)'. 'American Pie 1 and 2'. 'Lord of The Rings'.I think I got enough. And look.all sorts of sickeningly sweet goodies." He waggled popcorn, chocolate and lollies in front of her. "So.what do ya say? You gonna let me stay and veg out with you?"
Inside, Cordelia was ecstatic. On the outside, she smiled at him and shifted so that he could sit on the bed with her while they watched. "Go on." She motioned towards the TV sitting on the wall opposite the bed. "Put one on." She reached for one of the bars of chocolate and greedily started unwrapping it.
"Which one do you want to watch first?" Angel asked, marvelling at how cute she looked at that instant. She reminded him of a 5-year-old; full of energy, enthusiasm and a yearning for sugar.
"Umm.How's 'Cruel Intentions' sounding to you?" She responded, popping a square of coconut rough into her mouth and grinning at him.
"Sounds good." He replied. Sure, it was kinda a chick flick.but that didn't bother him. Not if he was watching it curled up next to her. 'Watch it O'Malley.wouldn't want another 'beach incident' now would we?' He pushed the tape into the VCR, pressed play, made his way back to the bed and settled up against the headrest, motioning for Cordy to hand him some chocolate.
"Oohh." He said, pointing at the screen. "See that girl.Katherine? Well.my ex looks *just* like her.only blonde." Then he wanted to kick himself. 'That's right Liam.' He mentally scolded himself. 'Try to impress the pretty lady with tales of your *ex*.'
"Hmm." Cordy sounded. "Was she just as slutty too?" She couldn't believe she'd just said that. Sure she was falling for the guy and all.but she was still engaged and she shouldn't be so.blunt and.well.jealous sounding. Plus, she was pretty sure that dissing his ex wasn't going to get her any points with him.
"Well.in hindsight she might have been. I wasn't really Mr Pay-Attention to those sorts of things at the time. We had a.different kind of relationship. Totally mismatched and." He stopped himself. Not only was he bringing up his ex at a completely inconvenient (and incredibly stupid) moment, he was bringing up a past and painful memories that this vacation was supposed to rid him of. *And* he wasn't exactly giving himself a good appraisal either. "You know.we don't need to be talking about my ex." He forced a laugh. "It might wreck the mood." He joked, although meaning it at the same time.
She laughed a little. "Cute." She told him. "Now watch."
*
The movies had been great. Maybe not so much the movies themselves. but more like the overall idea of watching the movies together. Angel grinned as Cordelia snuggled up against his chest. He wrapped his arm around her and she sobbed and laughed at the same time.
"God.you must think I'm pathetic." She chuckled and dabbed at her eyes. "I mean.I'm crying 'cos Nicole Kidman's just died.but we knew it was gonna happen. *and* this is like the fifth time I've seen it!"
He laughed. "Yeah.but its still a moving story.well.it kinda was.if you're tuned into those emotions and stuff. But I am a, what do most women call us? That's it.I am a heartless man.and as we all know it takes a lot to make a man cry. Unless of course you count the Blinnikov World Ballet Corps performing Giselle .*that* was a highly emotional performance." He paused at the look of amusement on her face. "What?"
"I'm sorry." She tried to stifle her laugh. "Its just.you don't look like the type of guy to like.or even go to.the ballet."
He smirked. "I bet I don't look like the kinda guy that does a lot of things."
"What's that supposed to mean?" She asked, one eyebrow rose.
He winked at her. "Wouldn't you like to know?" he asked suggestively in a playful manner.
She hit him light-heartedly. "Actually.I don't think I do anymore."
He laughed and prepared to insert the final movie. They'd left 'House on Haunted Hill' til last because it was best to watch the (so-called) scary ones in the dark. Psychologically, this was supposed to set the mood and make it seem more frightening. Angel was just looking forward to having Cordelia cuddle up against him when she got scared. He'd be 'Protecto Man' and she'd be the standard DID (Damsel in distress). All he had to do was wait.
*
"Oh God!" She yelled not even 10 minutes into the movie. "The cute camera man's gonna die!" She gripped onto Angel's arm in anticipation. "See! The rails on the ride just snapped! Oh God! I can't watch." She hid her eyes by doing as Angel had predicted and snuggling her face into his shoulder.
He chuckled. "So.All the blood and guts before didn't faze you, but try to kill off a camera man in a crash and you shield your eyes?"
"That's the plan."
Angel sighed. "What if it was me instead of the camera man?"
"Meh." She teased. "No biggy. He's really cute .and just look at the cheekbones."
"Okay.Now I'm offended. What has that guy got that I don't?" She looked up at him and grinned. He shook his head. "Actually.forget I even asked."
She laughed and hit him playfully.yet again. "Well.lets just watch the movie. Okay?" She turned towards the screen and watched for a few minutes, then found herself curled into Angel's shirt again. ".Or lets not." She said as she grimaced at the scene.
Laughing, Angel placed his arm around her protectively. He didn't even realise he'd done it until she pulled herself even closer into him. He smirked to himself. Everything was going just the way he'd planned.
* Angel's eyes flickered open. He drowsily looked around, rubbing his eyes with his free hand. There was a huge weight on his other one. He was sure he had a dead arm. He looked at Cordelia's sleeping face. She was curled up beside him, using his chest as a pillow, not that he minded. He smiled and looked at the time. It was almost three in the morning.
He shuffled a bit and realised how uncomfortable he was, especially with Cordelia taking up most of the room. He sooo needed to get out of this position.
He tried to move his arm first, but Cordelia seemed comfortable on it. 'Unlike me,' he thought. He decided to pick her head up and place it down on the pillow but as he tried, she stirred and protested. Angel groaned and he decided to wake her up instead.
"Cordelia?" he whispered, nudging her. She didn't move, "Cordelia?" he tried again, a bit louder.
"What?" she asked sleepily. Angel paused. She looked so cute when she was sleeping, her nose wrinkled up a little and she wore a small smile. A few stray strands of hair covered her face in all the right places.
Angel didn't say anything more; he really didn't want to disturb her. He waited until she went back to sleep, before lying back on the bed. Who cares about as dead arm? He'd rather watch her sleeping.
~*~*~*Three hours later*~*~*~ Cordelia woke up with a start. Her head felt so heavy. Had she been drinking? No, because when she had been drinking she usually saw purple spots in front of her. Definitely not a hangover.
Cordelia got up, and moaned in pain as her back ached. She wondered why that was. It felt as if she had been lying down for ages. Her left foot lightly touched the ground before she yelped in pain and retracted it.
"Okay, not trying that again," she said to herself. She remembered what had happened. The game, tripping and hurting her ankle, Angel's argument with Gunn, more pain, almost collapsing, Angel watching videos and having snacks, falling asleep.Oh my God!
Cordelia tried to think back to what had happened. She remembered sleeping, there was sleeping. Was there snuggling? Yes, there was snuggling. Any, god- forbid, removal of clothing? She looked at what she was wearing, shorts and a tank top, she remembered putting those on yesterday. She looked around. Angel wasn't there.
She felt relieved, but at the same time disappointed. She had looked forward to seeing Angel. She never really got a chance to say thank-you for what he had done. Defending her against his best friend and spending yesterday cooped up inside her hotel room, sacrificing his holiday.
Cordelia smiled as she attempted to get up again. Despite the pain, she needed a shower. She was a shower-a-day gal and she felt all achy and icky. 'What I need is some lavender bubble bath,' she thought to herself. Whenever she was in the mood for relaxing, a bath full of bubble was the way to do it. Mel had taught her that.
'Mental note to self - go to the internet café and email Mel, just to let her know I'm okay. But also refrain from telling her about Angel, there's no need for that,' she thought to herself again as she limped to the bathroom.
She pushed the door open and limped in. Strangely the shower was running. Without a second thought, she pulled back the curtain. She froze upon seeing the very naked Angel in the middle of a shower. He looked at her, stunned and becoming more embarrassed by the millisecond.
"Oh my God, I'm so sorry! I thought you were gone!" she explained as she quickly came back to her senses and shut the curtain, mumbling her apologies and limping out of there as fast as she could, and shut the door behind her. Once she was outside the bathroom, she leant against the door and found herself grinning from ear to ear.
"Cordy!" Angel exclaimed, grabbing for a towel as he turned the faucet off, "What are you doing walking around?" he half stuttered-half shouted through the door.
"It's my room! I was going to have a shower," she responded, trying to get the appealing images of Angel out of her head. It wasn't working.
"Erm, sorry. I...well, you were asleep," Angel hastily explained. Cordelia nodded, before thinking of something.
"Yeah, about that.I didn't.drool on you.did I?" She asked.
Angel smiled to himself. "No, you didn't, why?" he asked as he slipped on his top.
Cordelia, satisfied she hadn't completely humiliated herself, dismissed the conversation. "I'm sorry. for walking in on you like that," she apologised. 'Yeah.sorry I didn't stay longer.' A goofy smile crawled back onto her lips and she fought to keep control of her thoughts. 'Cordelia.ENGAGED!'
He shook his head stupidly, considering the fact that she couldn't see him as she was on the other side of a closed door. "No, it's my fault, I shouldn't have been invading your shower. I'll be gone in a couple of minutes. I'm going to meet Gunn,"
"Is that a good thing?" Cordelia asked hobbling over to the bed again and waiting for Angel to emerge.
Angel zipped up his trousers and quickly ran his fingers through his hair. There was no gel in the bathroom so he had to make do with a comb over. "Yeah, I sort of realised that the only way we were going to sort out our problems was if I went there first," He explained as he exited the bathroom.
Cordelia looked up. It was funny seeing Angel with clothes on, especially after what she had just seen. 'CORDY!' Her mind snapped again. She shook her head slightly, but it had no effect.
"The bathroom's free," he said. She nodded and smiled, partly because she was thinking of him in the shower again.
"Thanks," she said, still smiling. They stood awkwardly for a minute, not knowing what to say, "So.I'll be going in the shower." She smiled, pointedly adding, ".using the *lock* this time".
Angel actually blushed. "Sorry about that. It was the last time, I promise," he said. She shook her head violently, causing him to raise an eyebrow. "Or not." He chuckled, stopping himself from making a sly come on in his usual style.
"No! Not like that!" This was her cue to blush. "I.I meant it was no problem.In the hassle department. It's really my fault. I should have knocked," she thought for a minute, "Even though I had no idea you were in there, but.I should have heard the shower running," she said.
Angel smiled. "I'd better get going." He looked into her eyes, "I'll see you later, yeah?" he asked hopefully. Cordelia nodded as she got up and almost fell. "Do you need help in the bathroom?" He cringed in embarrassment. "I mean, getting into the shower," Cringed again. "Well.not exactly getting *in*. I mean, just cause you saw me in the buff doesn't mean I should see you in the.I'm leaving now," He headed for the door, leaving Cordelia grinning again at his goofiness. He stopped and turned, "You don't need help do you? Getting into the bathroom? Y'know, your ankle and all," Cordelia shook her head.
"No, I don't," she replied, "But thank you.for everything you've done," she elaborated.
Angel gave her a nod and another smile. "Anytime. Do you want me to come up and check on you? You know, bring you breakfast,"
"I'll order room service. You go and make up with Gunn," she told him. He nodded once more and left with a 'bye.' Cordelia stood in the doorway of the bathroom, still grinning. Angel was so sweet, caring for her like that. Groo wouldn't do something like that.She frowned slightly.He'd want to, but the man barely got away from his work these days. And she wouldn't feel as comfortable with him like this. She found herself chuckling.and the shower bit? Hmm. The grin on her face broadened as she pondered the subject.
*
Angel rehearsed everything he was going to say twice in his head. He would have to apologise first, he knew how difficult it was for Gunn to admit he was wrong. But he was going to take everything back if Gunn didn't admit his own fault. Angel sighed as he knocked on the door and waited but no answer came.
Angel knocked again, "Gunn?" he called
"What?" Gunn threw his hands up in frustration, even though Angel couldn't see him.
"Gunn, can I come in?" Angel ventured after hearing the outburst.
"And if I say no?" came the reply. Angel sighed, Gunn could be so difficult.
"Then I'll beat it down! Now let me in!" Angel shouted. 'Great going Angel,' he thought sarcastically, 'Start the apology with a threat.' Angel growled at his thoughts, 'He started it,' he tried to reason, 'Therefore.It was still a bad move.'
With a sigh the young black man walked to the door and opened it, still not budging to let his ex-best friend in. He raised his eyebrows. "Talk" he demanded.
Angel looked at him. "First, let me in," he said firmly.
Gunn stood his ground. "Look, if you have something to say, you say it now. Otherwise you can leave," he told him.
"Look, this is *my* room too!" Angel responded.
"Gee...and I thought you'd moved into Cordy's," Gunn threw back.
Angel tried to think of something to get him with. "I thought you were moving out," Angel finally retorted. Gunn looked at the floor, realising he hadn't actually moved out even though he had made a big deal out of it.
"I changed my mind when you didn't come home," Gunn articulated. 'Home? Why the hell did I say that?' he thought to himself.
The phrase didn't slip by unnoticed. "Man, we sound like an old married couple," Angel joked, smiling a little.
Gunn also cracked a smile. "And how I *love* being married to you," He teased for a second, forgetting he was angry with the man before him. He sobered almost immediately. "You still ain't coming in,"
"Gunn...I want to talk to you," Angel reminded him.
Gunn crossed his arms over his chest. "Then *talk*! I'm listening,"
"I'm not talking in the hall!" Angel informed him.
"Fine." Gunn said and began to close the door. "Guess you're not serious then,"
Angel leant forward and held it open. "Gunn," He tried not to sound as if he was threatening the man, "We need to talk about your problem,"
"*My* Problem?" Gunn yelled, pulling the door open and causing Angel to stumble. "You mean *your* problem?!"
"Hey! I don't have a problem! You do!" Angel said managing to get in the room, "Just *what* is wrong with Cordelia?" he asked.
"She's not trustworthy, *that's* what!"
"What?" Angel questioned. "How do you know all this?"
"I just have this feeling..."
Angel almost laughed. "A feeling? You're basing all of these accusations on a *feeling*?"
"As a PI I've learned to trust my instincts." He looked his friend in the eyes. "And Angel-" he began.
"Hey! I'm a PI too! I can use my own instincts-"
"To what? Work out whether she wants to be on top or-" Gunn knew he had gone too far. He stopped himself and tried to calm down. "Look...Angel...all I'm saying is your *instincts* are a little clouded right now and-"
"Gunn." The older man interrupted, a bit closer to losing his temper. "I happen to like Cordelia, and if you're jealous-"
"Jealous?" The younger man scoffed. "Me? Of you?" He laughed coldly. "Oh yeah...'cos I *really* want the Barbie..."
"Cordelia is *not* a Barbie!" Angel defended.
"Sure she isn't..." Gunn said sardonically. "And I'm the Queen of Sheba."
"Gunn..." Angel warned, "She's not like the others,"
"What others?" The man in question argued. "You mean the hooker and the school girl?" 'Damn,' He thought. 'Shouldn't have said that,'
Angel glared at him, "I'm going to forget you said that...*after* I beat the crap out of you." He threatened his former best friend through clenched teeth. Gunn knew that Darla and Buffy were especially sensitive subjects to raise. They were something he wanted to move on from and forget about. Gunn knew that as well.so lashing out like that was more than low.
"Look..." Gunn said, holding up his hands in defeat. "I didn't mean that..."
"Like Hell you didn't,"
"But I'm still worried-"
"Look, we're working backwards here. Why can't I just spend time with Cordelia? I spend enough time with *you*!"
"And *that* makes me feel special (!)" Gunn responded, starting to calm down a little. Angel smiled a tiny bit. Gunn smiled back. Their sense of humours were returning, which meant it was safe to try to reason again. "I just don't want to see you get all broody again. And I really don't trust this girl,"
"But I do. Just let me make my own. 'mistakes'" Angel replied, adding inverted commas in his head so he didn't upset Gunn.
Gunn still wasn't impressed. "Angel...just be careful on this one...I mean it."
"I will, Gunn. But I'm telling you; you've got it all wrong. Cordelia's sweet, charming and genuine. I really like her,"
The young black man sighed and nodded, still unsure of the woman in question. "Okay...Angel...I'm just makin' sure I got your back, y'know?"
"Yeah, I know," Angel said shaking hands with his now renewed best friend, "Just do me a favour, apologise to Cordy. She was really upset,"
Gunn snarled inwardly, but forced a smile. "Sure...I'll...talk to her."
Angel nodded and was about to turn away, but looked back at Gunn, "Oh...and play nice or I'll be coming back," Angel warned. He knew that Gunn wouldn't back down so easily. Gunn nodded slightly and Angel smiled. "I'm glad we worked this out,"
"Me too. But if things don't work out.you ain't gettin' no sympathy from me," Gunn told him.
"I know, but I have a good feeling about this one," Angel confided. "I really do." He sighed, catching sight of his hair in the mirror. "Now. I *need* my gel," Angel said and wandered into the bathroom for his beloved hair products.
As he watched Angel walk into the bathroom Gunn smirked to himself. He was gonna get to the bottom of this whole 'Cordelia' scenario whether Angel approved or not. But first.he had a few loose ends to tie up.
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A/N *Mrs O*- Grrr argh! I've had the worse few weeks with FF.N buggering up! It wasn't too bad though; I actually went outside for once! My parents realised why they bought me a computer in the first place.so they could have some peace and quiet! Ah well! I like writing this chapter too, especially the dialogues. Insane1 and me had fun doing them. *Grins* ^_^ Sorry, memories of the conversations and us getting sidetracked envisioning Angel in- I'm not going to ruin it for you, but I swear it'll make you grin! ^_^. P.S: I'm not really the brains of this operation, but since it's a compliment, I'll take it! ^_^ We love feedback.we thrive on it.so review to keep your two favourite authors alive!
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"Cordelia!" Angel called, turning the corner just in time to see the brunette beauty enter her room and close the door. He didn't hear everything his so-called best friend had said.but for some reason, he knew it couldn't have been good. Reaching room 109, Angel knocked on the door gently. "Cordelia." He called. No answer. "Cordy.I don't know what he said.but I'm so sorry. I don't know what to tell you.can we talk? Please?"
Cordelia leant against the door in a state of shock. Was Gunn right? Was Angel actually falling for her? If it was true, she'd kick herself. This was supposed to be her 2 weeks of fun. Instead she was successfully attempting to ruin her upcoming marriage before it even started.
And Angel? This situation made her feel even worse. She was toying with his emotions. This was another human being and she had been using him for her own pleasure, not really pausing to think of how it all might affect him.
Should she answer the door? Should she talk with him? Her mind raced. This was not the vacation she'd intended on, that was for sure. She stood upright painfully, her ankle was throbbing from her brisk walk.er.limp from Angel's room and she didn't know how much longer she could hold herself up on it. Turning to face the door and biting her bottom lip in an attempt to ignore and hide the evidence of the pain, she took a deep breath and reached for the handle.
Angel had just about given up hope. He'd been seriously interested in this girl, which was a strange concept for him, and his very own best friend had ruined it. Giving the door one last painstaking glance, he turned to walk back down the hall.
"Angel?"
He turned at her voice, his heart doing somersaults in his chest. She was actually going to talk to him. He began to walk towards her cautiously, as if any sudden movement would startle her and cause her to retreat. "Cordelia." He began softly, "I.I'm sorry. For whatever Gunn said. He didn't have any right to treat you that way. I'm totally ash-"
By now he was standing directly in front of her and she reached a slender finger to his lips to silence him. "I know." She told him, sounding depressed and defeated. Gunn would *definitely* pay for this. Hurting his feelings was one thing.but hers? That was totally and completely- "But he was right."
Angel's thoughts were shut down immediately. He was shocked. "I.he.Huh?"
The tiniest smile crept onto her lips and he would have given the world to kiss her right then and there. But he didn't. Instead, he allowed her to explain where her absurd comment had come from. "He made a point Angel.I have to tell you." Her face contorted in pain and Angel watched as her ankle buckled beneath her. He lunged forward just in time to catch her before she hit the ground.
"Cordy." He breathed, now completely concerned. "You okay?"
She nodded and fought back the tears. Her ankle hurt really badly, but she was too stubborn to admit it. "Uh-huh." She tried to smile but it looked more like a wince. "I'm fine.I guess I kinda slipped. I'm all good." She tried to push herself out of his strong arms, and gingerly placed her injured foot back on the ground. A shockwave of pain raced up her body and she cried out.
"Sure you are." Angel replied, his disbelief evident. "You must have done some extra damage when you raced back here. Come on.There's no way you're gonna be able to make it back into your room yourself." He swept her off her feet in one smooth motion, taking in the soft, sweet scent of her perfume as he did. He was officially in heaven.
"Angel." Cordelia protested weakly, knowing he was right. She sighed; giving him the sign that she was surrendering her argument. Leaning against his chest as he struggled to open the door, she breathed in and the faint, lingering scent of his cologne filled her senses, making her feel all tingly inside. This time, however, Cordelia smiled at her thoughts. There was nothing smutty about them. She just felt.content.
Was that wrong?
Well.it was when she remembered her loving fiancé.but this feeling.It was so new. Not even Groo had made her feel this happy.and he *knew* how to make a girl happy. This was the first time Cordelia Chase had ever allowed herself to be swept off her feet (.pretty much literally at the moment.) by anyone she'd just met. It took her months to trust Groo half as much as she did Angel right now, and it had taken her even longer with Xander.but that hadn't turned out well, so it didn't count.
Perhaps the reason she felt so comfortable with Angel was the fact that she wasn't serious. She didn't see a future with him. Well.she *hadn't* seen a future with him. She could with Groo.she still did.and it scared her. It proved that things were serious and it was deeper than she'd ever been before.it gave him an even stronger chance to break her heart and humiliate her.and that scared her. This thing with Angel.it was *her* holding all the cards. She knew it wasn't a big thing and she could go home to a man that loved her very, very much.
'That doesn't make any sense Cordy.' Her mind told her. 'The fact is, you *are* scared of your future with Groo.but its not because he can hurt you and Angel can't. Angel can hurt you just as much.maybe more. And do you know why? Because you don't love Groo. You never have and you never can. You just don't feel the spark.and that makes you uncomfortable. That's what scares you. The fact that you can't admit to yourself that he's not the one.even though you'd give anything for him to be. But Angel.you feel the spark.' She bit down on her lip again as she realised everything all at once. She didn't want it to be true.but she knew it was. She'd tried to hide from this realisation for a while now, and it had finally caught up with her. She tried to shake the thoughts away, but her head was determined to have the last say in the matter. 'Why have you just been able to trust Angel like this.to feel so warm and fuzzy around him? You know the answer. You're falling in love with him. Of course you've never felt this way before.You've never been in love. You couldn't admit to loving Groo, not even when he proposed.because you couldn't lie to yourself.or to him. This feeling of contentment is part of love. Admit it Cordelia. You're falling for this guy. Don't let him slip away.' She swallowed and closed her eyes, subconsciously snuggling against Angel's chest while he closed the door and slowly walked her into her bedroom. 'This is love. You're finally in love.'
"Cordelia."
Her eyes fluttered open at the sound of his voice. "Hmmm?" She said sleepily, trying to focus her gaze. He was sitting on the bed in front of her, leaning over her face ever so slightly.
He smiled a lopsided smile. Her heart did backflips and one single thought kept running through her head. ('This is love. You're finally in love.') "Hey." He said, his voice thick with concern, compassion and laced with that lovey-dovey vibe Groo used to use. "I didn't mean to wake you-"
"-I was asleep?"
He chuckled. "I guess those painkillers *really* did knock you out then."
She grinned sheepishly. "I guess." Inwardly she wondered 'Okay.when were there painkillers?'
"How does your ankle feel now?" Angel asked, suddenly in total concern mode again. She'd seemed in so much pain last night that she couldn't really think properly. No matter how many times he'd asked her something, *anything*, she'd mumble incoherently. He'd spent about ten minutes watching the silent tears slip down her perfect face, which was wrinkled in pain, and decided to do something.*anything* to help. So he'd retrieved the box of painkillers that was sitting on her kitchen bench and had miraculously managed to get her to down a couple, assuring her that she'd feel better soon. Then she'd fallen asleep and he'd left her to rest while he gathered his thoughts.and some ice to stop the swelling. Not wanting to go back to his room last night, he'd curled up on the chair and drifted off. Once he'd woken up, he fetched some more ice and came in to check up on her. Now she was awake and he wanted to know if his 'mothering skills' had paid off.
She smiled at him. "Oh.much less pain. Barely any." She told him and glanced at the clock on the bedside table. Letting out a small gasp, she exclaimed, "I was out all night?"
He nodded. "Yeah.I slept on the couch.I hope you don't mind.It's just with the Gunn situation and-"
She waved him off, suddenly very alert. "No! No problem." She sat herself up and moved to get out of bed. The second her foot hit the ground a new wave of pain ran through her and she yelped.
Angel shook his head sympathetically. "I hate to say it, but you kinda worsened the extent of your sprain last night and you probably won't be able to walk around much.or at all. for the next day or so."
"Oh."
"I'm so sorry." He blurted out. "Its all my fault. I mean, if I hadn't have- "
She cut him short. "How? How is it your fault? Angel.these things happen. I don't think its anyone's fault."
"But-"
"But what? I don't want to hear it. It was an accident and I'll be fine. Plus." She grinned. "This gives me an excuse to get room service."
"Well.then let me pay for it." He said, pushing the issue. "I mean.I still feel so awful I keep ruining things for you and-"
"No!" She stopped him once again. "I told you, it's fine. And you will not be paying for anything. In fact, you will not be sticking around at all. You are going to go outside and enjoy your vacation. Got it?"
"But I-"
"Angel." She growled menacingly. "I'm fine. Go and enjoy your holiday." He looked torn, but she pointed for him to leave. "Out." She ordered.
He slumped his shoulders in defeat. "Fine." He replied as he left. "But I'll be back to check up on you. If you need anything.anything at all.my cell number's right next to the phone." And with one last look at the girl, Angel walked out.
*
"Sir." The clerk behind the counter looked up at him like he was deranged. "Are you sure.What I mean to ask is.You want *these*? I don't mean to be disrespectful, but.you don't look like the type that would.erm. enjoy them."
Angel looked down at the boy and smiled. "They're not really for me. They're for a lady friend." He replied.
Immediately, the boy broke into a knowing grin and nodded. "Gotcha." Then proceeded to scan the items through for Angel.
*
"Knock Knock." Angel said, lightly tapping on the door as he entered Cordelia's room. "Anyone home?"
"What?" Her voice called back. "Angel? What are you doing back here? I told you to get out and have fun.you said you would." He smiled down at her as he walked into her bedroom, but she glared up at him and pointed to the clock. "That was only 15 minutes ago!"
He shrugged. "What can I say? I tried to have fun.but I couldn't knowing that you were up here all alone with no-one to share room service with." He extended his arms. "Plus.I come bearing gifts."
Cordelia couldn't help breaking into laughter. When he looked confused and slightly hurt, she explained with a smile. "I'm sorry.I didn't mean to laugh.its just nobody's ever hired 'Chicken Run' out for me before."
He looked a little sheepish. "I didn't know what kind of movies you liked.so I kinda tried to get one in each genre. See, we got 'Chicken Run'." He shuddered. He wasn't really a big fan of chickens. For the strangest reason, they gave him the wiggins. "Uh. ' Moulin Rouge'. 'Cruel Intentions'. 'House on Haunted Hill (2000 version)'. 'American Pie 1 and 2'. 'Lord of The Rings'.I think I got enough. And look.all sorts of sickeningly sweet goodies." He waggled popcorn, chocolate and lollies in front of her. "So.what do ya say? You gonna let me stay and veg out with you?"
Inside, Cordelia was ecstatic. On the outside, she smiled at him and shifted so that he could sit on the bed with her while they watched. "Go on." She motioned towards the TV sitting on the wall opposite the bed. "Put one on." She reached for one of the bars of chocolate and greedily started unwrapping it.
"Which one do you want to watch first?" Angel asked, marvelling at how cute she looked at that instant. She reminded him of a 5-year-old; full of energy, enthusiasm and a yearning for sugar.
"Umm.How's 'Cruel Intentions' sounding to you?" She responded, popping a square of coconut rough into her mouth and grinning at him.
"Sounds good." He replied. Sure, it was kinda a chick flick.but that didn't bother him. Not if he was watching it curled up next to her. 'Watch it O'Malley.wouldn't want another 'beach incident' now would we?' He pushed the tape into the VCR, pressed play, made his way back to the bed and settled up against the headrest, motioning for Cordy to hand him some chocolate.
"Oohh." He said, pointing at the screen. "See that girl.Katherine? Well.my ex looks *just* like her.only blonde." Then he wanted to kick himself. 'That's right Liam.' He mentally scolded himself. 'Try to impress the pretty lady with tales of your *ex*.'
"Hmm." Cordy sounded. "Was she just as slutty too?" She couldn't believe she'd just said that. Sure she was falling for the guy and all.but she was still engaged and she shouldn't be so.blunt and.well.jealous sounding. Plus, she was pretty sure that dissing his ex wasn't going to get her any points with him.
"Well.in hindsight she might have been. I wasn't really Mr Pay-Attention to those sorts of things at the time. We had a.different kind of relationship. Totally mismatched and." He stopped himself. Not only was he bringing up his ex at a completely inconvenient (and incredibly stupid) moment, he was bringing up a past and painful memories that this vacation was supposed to rid him of. *And* he wasn't exactly giving himself a good appraisal either. "You know.we don't need to be talking about my ex." He forced a laugh. "It might wreck the mood." He joked, although meaning it at the same time.
She laughed a little. "Cute." She told him. "Now watch."
*
The movies had been great. Maybe not so much the movies themselves. but more like the overall idea of watching the movies together. Angel grinned as Cordelia snuggled up against his chest. He wrapped his arm around her and she sobbed and laughed at the same time.
"God.you must think I'm pathetic." She chuckled and dabbed at her eyes. "I mean.I'm crying 'cos Nicole Kidman's just died.but we knew it was gonna happen. *and* this is like the fifth time I've seen it!"
He laughed. "Yeah.but its still a moving story.well.it kinda was.if you're tuned into those emotions and stuff. But I am a, what do most women call us? That's it.I am a heartless man.and as we all know it takes a lot to make a man cry. Unless of course you count the Blinnikov World Ballet Corps performing Giselle .*that* was a highly emotional performance." He paused at the look of amusement on her face. "What?"
"I'm sorry." She tried to stifle her laugh. "Its just.you don't look like the type of guy to like.or even go to.the ballet."
He smirked. "I bet I don't look like the kinda guy that does a lot of things."
"What's that supposed to mean?" She asked, one eyebrow rose.
He winked at her. "Wouldn't you like to know?" he asked suggestively in a playful manner.
She hit him light-heartedly. "Actually.I don't think I do anymore."
He laughed and prepared to insert the final movie. They'd left 'House on Haunted Hill' til last because it was best to watch the (so-called) scary ones in the dark. Psychologically, this was supposed to set the mood and make it seem more frightening. Angel was just looking forward to having Cordelia cuddle up against him when she got scared. He'd be 'Protecto Man' and she'd be the standard DID (Damsel in distress). All he had to do was wait.
*
"Oh God!" She yelled not even 10 minutes into the movie. "The cute camera man's gonna die!" She gripped onto Angel's arm in anticipation. "See! The rails on the ride just snapped! Oh God! I can't watch." She hid her eyes by doing as Angel had predicted and snuggling her face into his shoulder.
He chuckled. "So.All the blood and guts before didn't faze you, but try to kill off a camera man in a crash and you shield your eyes?"
"That's the plan."
Angel sighed. "What if it was me instead of the camera man?"
"Meh." She teased. "No biggy. He's really cute .and just look at the cheekbones."
"Okay.Now I'm offended. What has that guy got that I don't?" She looked up at him and grinned. He shook his head. "Actually.forget I even asked."
She laughed and hit him playfully.yet again. "Well.lets just watch the movie. Okay?" She turned towards the screen and watched for a few minutes, then found herself curled into Angel's shirt again. ".Or lets not." She said as she grimaced at the scene.
Laughing, Angel placed his arm around her protectively. He didn't even realise he'd done it until she pulled herself even closer into him. He smirked to himself. Everything was going just the way he'd planned.
* Angel's eyes flickered open. He drowsily looked around, rubbing his eyes with his free hand. There was a huge weight on his other one. He was sure he had a dead arm. He looked at Cordelia's sleeping face. She was curled up beside him, using his chest as a pillow, not that he minded. He smiled and looked at the time. It was almost three in the morning.
He shuffled a bit and realised how uncomfortable he was, especially with Cordelia taking up most of the room. He sooo needed to get out of this position.
He tried to move his arm first, but Cordelia seemed comfortable on it. 'Unlike me,' he thought. He decided to pick her head up and place it down on the pillow but as he tried, she stirred and protested. Angel groaned and he decided to wake her up instead.
"Cordelia?" he whispered, nudging her. She didn't move, "Cordelia?" he tried again, a bit louder.
"What?" she asked sleepily. Angel paused. She looked so cute when she was sleeping, her nose wrinkled up a little and she wore a small smile. A few stray strands of hair covered her face in all the right places.
Angel didn't say anything more; he really didn't want to disturb her. He waited until she went back to sleep, before lying back on the bed. Who cares about as dead arm? He'd rather watch her sleeping.
~*~*~*Three hours later*~*~*~ Cordelia woke up with a start. Her head felt so heavy. Had she been drinking? No, because when she had been drinking she usually saw purple spots in front of her. Definitely not a hangover.
Cordelia got up, and moaned in pain as her back ached. She wondered why that was. It felt as if she had been lying down for ages. Her left foot lightly touched the ground before she yelped in pain and retracted it.
"Okay, not trying that again," she said to herself. She remembered what had happened. The game, tripping and hurting her ankle, Angel's argument with Gunn, more pain, almost collapsing, Angel watching videos and having snacks, falling asleep.Oh my God!
Cordelia tried to think back to what had happened. She remembered sleeping, there was sleeping. Was there snuggling? Yes, there was snuggling. Any, god- forbid, removal of clothing? She looked at what she was wearing, shorts and a tank top, she remembered putting those on yesterday. She looked around. Angel wasn't there.
She felt relieved, but at the same time disappointed. She had looked forward to seeing Angel. She never really got a chance to say thank-you for what he had done. Defending her against his best friend and spending yesterday cooped up inside her hotel room, sacrificing his holiday.
Cordelia smiled as she attempted to get up again. Despite the pain, she needed a shower. She was a shower-a-day gal and she felt all achy and icky. 'What I need is some lavender bubble bath,' she thought to herself. Whenever she was in the mood for relaxing, a bath full of bubble was the way to do it. Mel had taught her that.
'Mental note to self - go to the internet café and email Mel, just to let her know I'm okay. But also refrain from telling her about Angel, there's no need for that,' she thought to herself again as she limped to the bathroom.
She pushed the door open and limped in. Strangely the shower was running. Without a second thought, she pulled back the curtain. She froze upon seeing the very naked Angel in the middle of a shower. He looked at her, stunned and becoming more embarrassed by the millisecond.
"Oh my God, I'm so sorry! I thought you were gone!" she explained as she quickly came back to her senses and shut the curtain, mumbling her apologies and limping out of there as fast as she could, and shut the door behind her. Once she was outside the bathroom, she leant against the door and found herself grinning from ear to ear.
"Cordy!" Angel exclaimed, grabbing for a towel as he turned the faucet off, "What are you doing walking around?" he half stuttered-half shouted through the door.
"It's my room! I was going to have a shower," she responded, trying to get the appealing images of Angel out of her head. It wasn't working.
"Erm, sorry. I...well, you were asleep," Angel hastily explained. Cordelia nodded, before thinking of something.
"Yeah, about that.I didn't.drool on you.did I?" She asked.
Angel smiled to himself. "No, you didn't, why?" he asked as he slipped on his top.
Cordelia, satisfied she hadn't completely humiliated herself, dismissed the conversation. "I'm sorry. for walking in on you like that," she apologised. 'Yeah.sorry I didn't stay longer.' A goofy smile crawled back onto her lips and she fought to keep control of her thoughts. 'Cordelia.ENGAGED!'
He shook his head stupidly, considering the fact that she couldn't see him as she was on the other side of a closed door. "No, it's my fault, I shouldn't have been invading your shower. I'll be gone in a couple of minutes. I'm going to meet Gunn,"
"Is that a good thing?" Cordelia asked hobbling over to the bed again and waiting for Angel to emerge.
Angel zipped up his trousers and quickly ran his fingers through his hair. There was no gel in the bathroom so he had to make do with a comb over. "Yeah, I sort of realised that the only way we were going to sort out our problems was if I went there first," He explained as he exited the bathroom.
Cordelia looked up. It was funny seeing Angel with clothes on, especially after what she had just seen. 'CORDY!' Her mind snapped again. She shook her head slightly, but it had no effect.
"The bathroom's free," he said. She nodded and smiled, partly because she was thinking of him in the shower again.
"Thanks," she said, still smiling. They stood awkwardly for a minute, not knowing what to say, "So.I'll be going in the shower." She smiled, pointedly adding, ".using the *lock* this time".
Angel actually blushed. "Sorry about that. It was the last time, I promise," he said. She shook her head violently, causing him to raise an eyebrow. "Or not." He chuckled, stopping himself from making a sly come on in his usual style.
"No! Not like that!" This was her cue to blush. "I.I meant it was no problem.In the hassle department. It's really my fault. I should have knocked," she thought for a minute, "Even though I had no idea you were in there, but.I should have heard the shower running," she said.
Angel smiled. "I'd better get going." He looked into her eyes, "I'll see you later, yeah?" he asked hopefully. Cordelia nodded as she got up and almost fell. "Do you need help in the bathroom?" He cringed in embarrassment. "I mean, getting into the shower," Cringed again. "Well.not exactly getting *in*. I mean, just cause you saw me in the buff doesn't mean I should see you in the.I'm leaving now," He headed for the door, leaving Cordelia grinning again at his goofiness. He stopped and turned, "You don't need help do you? Getting into the bathroom? Y'know, your ankle and all," Cordelia shook her head.
"No, I don't," she replied, "But thank you.for everything you've done," she elaborated.
Angel gave her a nod and another smile. "Anytime. Do you want me to come up and check on you? You know, bring you breakfast,"
"I'll order room service. You go and make up with Gunn," she told him. He nodded once more and left with a 'bye.' Cordelia stood in the doorway of the bathroom, still grinning. Angel was so sweet, caring for her like that. Groo wouldn't do something like that.She frowned slightly.He'd want to, but the man barely got away from his work these days. And she wouldn't feel as comfortable with him like this. She found herself chuckling.and the shower bit? Hmm. The grin on her face broadened as she pondered the subject.
*
Angel rehearsed everything he was going to say twice in his head. He would have to apologise first, he knew how difficult it was for Gunn to admit he was wrong. But he was going to take everything back if Gunn didn't admit his own fault. Angel sighed as he knocked on the door and waited but no answer came.
Angel knocked again, "Gunn?" he called
"What?" Gunn threw his hands up in frustration, even though Angel couldn't see him.
"Gunn, can I come in?" Angel ventured after hearing the outburst.
"And if I say no?" came the reply. Angel sighed, Gunn could be so difficult.
"Then I'll beat it down! Now let me in!" Angel shouted. 'Great going Angel,' he thought sarcastically, 'Start the apology with a threat.' Angel growled at his thoughts, 'He started it,' he tried to reason, 'Therefore.It was still a bad move.'
With a sigh the young black man walked to the door and opened it, still not budging to let his ex-best friend in. He raised his eyebrows. "Talk" he demanded.
Angel looked at him. "First, let me in," he said firmly.
Gunn stood his ground. "Look, if you have something to say, you say it now. Otherwise you can leave," he told him.
"Look, this is *my* room too!" Angel responded.
"Gee...and I thought you'd moved into Cordy's," Gunn threw back.
Angel tried to think of something to get him with. "I thought you were moving out," Angel finally retorted. Gunn looked at the floor, realising he hadn't actually moved out even though he had made a big deal out of it.
"I changed my mind when you didn't come home," Gunn articulated. 'Home? Why the hell did I say that?' he thought to himself.
The phrase didn't slip by unnoticed. "Man, we sound like an old married couple," Angel joked, smiling a little.
Gunn also cracked a smile. "And how I *love* being married to you," He teased for a second, forgetting he was angry with the man before him. He sobered almost immediately. "You still ain't coming in,"
"Gunn...I want to talk to you," Angel reminded him.
Gunn crossed his arms over his chest. "Then *talk*! I'm listening,"
"I'm not talking in the hall!" Angel informed him.
"Fine." Gunn said and began to close the door. "Guess you're not serious then,"
Angel leant forward and held it open. "Gunn," He tried not to sound as if he was threatening the man, "We need to talk about your problem,"
"*My* Problem?" Gunn yelled, pulling the door open and causing Angel to stumble. "You mean *your* problem?!"
"Hey! I don't have a problem! You do!" Angel said managing to get in the room, "Just *what* is wrong with Cordelia?" he asked.
"She's not trustworthy, *that's* what!"
"What?" Angel questioned. "How do you know all this?"
"I just have this feeling..."
Angel almost laughed. "A feeling? You're basing all of these accusations on a *feeling*?"
"As a PI I've learned to trust my instincts." He looked his friend in the eyes. "And Angel-" he began.
"Hey! I'm a PI too! I can use my own instincts-"
"To what? Work out whether she wants to be on top or-" Gunn knew he had gone too far. He stopped himself and tried to calm down. "Look...Angel...all I'm saying is your *instincts* are a little clouded right now and-"
"Gunn." The older man interrupted, a bit closer to losing his temper. "I happen to like Cordelia, and if you're jealous-"
"Jealous?" The younger man scoffed. "Me? Of you?" He laughed coldly. "Oh yeah...'cos I *really* want the Barbie..."
"Cordelia is *not* a Barbie!" Angel defended.
"Sure she isn't..." Gunn said sardonically. "And I'm the Queen of Sheba."
"Gunn..." Angel warned, "She's not like the others,"
"What others?" The man in question argued. "You mean the hooker and the school girl?" 'Damn,' He thought. 'Shouldn't have said that,'
Angel glared at him, "I'm going to forget you said that...*after* I beat the crap out of you." He threatened his former best friend through clenched teeth. Gunn knew that Darla and Buffy were especially sensitive subjects to raise. They were something he wanted to move on from and forget about. Gunn knew that as well.so lashing out like that was more than low.
"Look..." Gunn said, holding up his hands in defeat. "I didn't mean that..."
"Like Hell you didn't,"
"But I'm still worried-"
"Look, we're working backwards here. Why can't I just spend time with Cordelia? I spend enough time with *you*!"
"And *that* makes me feel special (!)" Gunn responded, starting to calm down a little. Angel smiled a tiny bit. Gunn smiled back. Their sense of humours were returning, which meant it was safe to try to reason again. "I just don't want to see you get all broody again. And I really don't trust this girl,"
"But I do. Just let me make my own. 'mistakes'" Angel replied, adding inverted commas in his head so he didn't upset Gunn.
Gunn still wasn't impressed. "Angel...just be careful on this one...I mean it."
"I will, Gunn. But I'm telling you; you've got it all wrong. Cordelia's sweet, charming and genuine. I really like her,"
The young black man sighed and nodded, still unsure of the woman in question. "Okay...Angel...I'm just makin' sure I got your back, y'know?"
"Yeah, I know," Angel said shaking hands with his now renewed best friend, "Just do me a favour, apologise to Cordy. She was really upset,"
Gunn snarled inwardly, but forced a smile. "Sure...I'll...talk to her."
Angel nodded and was about to turn away, but looked back at Gunn, "Oh...and play nice or I'll be coming back," Angel warned. He knew that Gunn wouldn't back down so easily. Gunn nodded slightly and Angel smiled. "I'm glad we worked this out,"
"Me too. But if things don't work out.you ain't gettin' no sympathy from me," Gunn told him.
"I know, but I have a good feeling about this one," Angel confided. "I really do." He sighed, catching sight of his hair in the mirror. "Now. I *need* my gel," Angel said and wandered into the bathroom for his beloved hair products.
As he watched Angel walk into the bathroom Gunn smirked to himself. He was gonna get to the bottom of this whole 'Cordelia' scenario whether Angel approved or not. But first.he had a few loose ends to tie up.
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