Chapter 10: Prior Engagements, Part I
A/n: Thanks for your reviews, they mean a bunch to me! I'm going back to third person again this chapter. I might go back to do first person in a later chapter, what do you think?
Disclaimer: I do not own Alias for it belongs to JJ Abrams. (But if I could own something, I would most definitely own Vaughn... mwahaha)
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The doctors wheeled Vaughn back into the other room while Sydney continued to hold his hand tightly. Weiss followed them in.
I hate to break up the two lovebirds, he said, but I want to talk with Mike alone.
Sydney kissed Michael's hand and reluctantly let it go. OK, I'm going to go call Will and Francie, and my dad.
When Sydney shut the door Weiss turned to Vaughn. Do you have any idea how hard it is to walk up to your screaming girlfriend and tell her that you're going to be fine? Vaughn winced at the thought. I'm surprised she didn't slap me. I almost fell over and shouted to her yeah, he might die.' I mean, you were shot ten times worse than me Then he added more quietly, I was freaking scared.
Vaughn put on a serious face. I would have missed you too, Eric.
Weiss eye's quickly dodged around the room. Then he leaned over and gave Vaughn one of those manly pat-on-the-back hugs.
In the midst of it, they heard, I wondered when that was coming. Weiss let go and turned to find Sydney grinning. She walked towards the two men, watching Weiss's face turn different shades of red.
Uh, anyway, he continued, I'm really glad you didn't die, and, um, I'll visit you in the morning. Sydney and Vaughn said their goodbyes and watched Weiss walk out the door. Sydney sat down in the chair and took hold of Michael's hand once again.
So what did you tell Francie and Will? Vaughn asked.
Well, I told Will the truth. Then I told Francie that I'm on a last minute business trip. I have a feeling Will's reaction might cause Francie to have some suspicions, though.
Are you going to tell Francie the truth about everything anyway?
I plan to. But not over the phone and definitely not through Will, Sydney said before yawning. She checked her watch. Wow, it's nearly midnight.
I don't want you to leave, Vaughn told her.
I won't, Michael.
Why don't you crawl into bed with me? Vaughn suggested.
Sydney smiled at him. All right, she said, climbing in. She laid on her side and rested her head on Vaughn's chest. Her arm spread across his stomach. I love you.
Vaughn smiled wholeheartedly at her. I love you too.
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Sydney's eyes slowly opened. She was still lying comfortably in Vaughn's arms, and he seemed to be perfectly content in his sleep. Sydney then noticed that there seemed to be a shadow over her. She turned and found her father standing next to her.
he began.
I – It's not – We didn't – I mean – He... Vaughn, wake up. She nudged Vaughn awake. His eyes slowly focused around the room until he came to...
Holy –
Dad, what are you doing here? Sydney asked, jumping out of bed.
I said I'd come by in the morning. It's ten o'clock.
Sydney looked at her watch. I'm sorry, we were up rather late. Jack raised his eyebrows. Come on, Dad, let's go talk. Sydney led Jack out of the hospital room.
Vaughn sat in his room and looked around before Weiss came in through the door.
Why does Sydney look like she's about to get grounded, Weiss greeted him, causing Vaughn to roll his eyes. Anyway, I was going to tell you this yesterday, but then Syd came back in the room. He paused ona serious note. I think she found the ring.
Vaughn choked on his breath. What do you mean you think she found the ring?'
Oh, sorry. I know she found it. I just got off the phone with your mom – yeah, she's coming today.
Why didn't you tell me?
I'm getting there, Weiss said. As I was saying, I was just coming to tell you, when I looked through the little window in the door I saw her holding the little velvet box.
Vaughn quickly ran his hand down his face. OK, so she found the ring. She obviously knows what I planned to do with it... Crap, what does this mean?
Uh, maybe you should propose soon, buddy, Weiss said, giving Vaughn a small punch on his shoulder.
I am not doing it in a hospital, Vaughn shook his head. It has to be the perfect moment.
What has to be the perfect moment? a woman's voice came from the door.
Vaughn exclaimed. How are you?
I should be asking you that question, Michael, she grinned, walked forward, and hugged her son. Oh, I was just thinking about you when I got this call from Eric saying that you were shot. I was in such a state of shock last night – also that reminded me of your father... – I couldn't think straight until this morning when I got in the car and drove for two hours. She kissed the top of his head in a motherly way. You have to tell me what happened.
I'll fill you in on everything, he said, finding much comfort in his mother's embrace.
But what were you talking about for the perfect moment?' she asked just as Sydney and her dad returned to the hospital room.
Vaughn glanced nervously from his mom, to Sydney, to Weiss. Sydney glanced back and forth between Vaughn and his mom.
Awkward moment... Weiss muttered. Vaughn shot him an angry look that said I'd hit you very hard if it didn't look conspicuous.'
Bridgette turned to look at who just entered the room. she greeted them cheerfully.
Sydney smiled back, Hello. Are you Mrs. Vaughn?
I am. How do you know Michael?
I work with him... at the bank, she finished quickly.
It's OK, Syd, said Vaughn, she knows where I work.
Sydney nodded. Bridgette could see the love in the air between Sydney and her son, and she smiled to herself.
Well, I'll talk to you later, Mike... yeah, said Weiss taking a quick glance at Sydney.
As he headed toward the door, Jack said, And I have a meeting with Kendall. Good-bye, Sydney.
Sydney mumbled good-bye as the two left the room, leaving Sydney alone with Vaughn and his mother.
Bridgette put on a smug grin. So how long have you two known each other?
Sydney sat in the chair next to Vaughn's bed. About three years, she said.
Vaughn could see where his mother was going to go with this conversation, so he interfered before she could get out the next question. What did your dad want to talk about, Syd?
she looked skeptically at Mrs. Vaughn. What he found' this morning.
Vaughn realized that she meant Sydney sleeping in the hospital bed with him. Oh. And did he say anything about, oh, I don't know, something along the lines of him not kicking my ass?
Bridgette gazed confusedly between the two.
Sydney laughed. I'll have to tell you later.
Bridgette rolled her eyes. Oh, tell him now. I already can tell you're in love.
The two dropped their jaws and stared wide-eyed at her. Vaughn was the first to come back to reality. It was no use. Mom. This is Sydney Bristow; the love of my life.
Sydney blushed slightly at her new title and shook Mrs. Vaughn's hand. Michael's only told me wonderful things about you, Mrs. Vaughn.
Oh, please, call me Bridgette. Sydney smiled kindly and nodded. So, Michael, she looked back at her son, who had a warm smile on his face after watching his mother and girlfriend bond. You have to tell me how this happened.
Vaughn sighed and started to tell his story; though he began when he first met Sydney...
After an hour, or two, or three; Bridgette Vaughn left the hospital glad to know that her son was safe, and glad to know that he was in loving arms.
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And, just remember to take your medicine to avoid infection, and don't drive, do vigorous activity, or operate heavy machinery. See you back in four weeks. The doctor handed Sydney Vaughn's medication and she pushed him in his wheelchair out of the hospital.
Free at last! Vaughn smiled at Syd. Sweet fresh air, how I missed you. Sydney giggled at him. Vaughn had been in the hospital for nearly two weeks, and it was about time for him to be let out. Many of the agents didn't think he would be kept there as long as he was, but they just wanted to see him get better. Sydney wheeled him to her car and helped him inside. When she sat down in the driver's seat, he said, Whoa, do you realize something?
This is the first time we are in outside in pubic together and no one will try to kill us.
Sydney's body froze, but turned her head. You're right... She leaned over and gave him a gentle kiss. First time we could do that in public too.
Vaughn grinned and put his arm around her as she backed out of her parking spot. So, are we going to my apartment – together – in broad daylight?
Sydney exclaimed, followed by a sigh of relief.
She finally pulled into the parking lot at Vaughn's apartment complex and parked near the entrance. She wheeled Vaughn inside.
I can't wait to see Donovan. Is that weird? For me to miss my dog that much?
Syd rolled her eyes and laughed as she opened the door for him. They found several people inside surprising him.
Wow, I get a welcome home party? You guys really shouldn't have, Vaughn said, grinning ear to ear.
Yeah, well, it was the least we could do, said Weiss, helping him inside. Vaughn found a banner hanging over the opening to the kitchen that read Welcome home Vaughn.' He also noticed Marshall Flinkman and Marcus Dixon standing a short distance away from the group talking with Sydney. She directed them over where he sat.
Marshall, Dixon; this is Agent Michael Vaughn.
Each shook Vaughn's hand. It's nice to finally meet you guys in person, he said.
Nice to meet you too, said Dixon. Sydney's been talking about you quite a bit, recently.
Actually a lot, since now you guys can really talk to each other, and she can tell us cause... we work for the CIA now, said Marshall. Anyway, it's good to meet you.
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Much later, after all the people had left, Vaughn and Sydney were sitting comfortably in bed watching an old movie.
He's already got a decorator, I'm the agent, Sydney said along with the movie.
Uh, Syd, speaking of agents...
What, Michael?
Are you going to stay in the CIA now that SD-6 is gone?
Sydney was silent for a while in thought. Vaughn ignored the loud party noises that occurred in the movie while waiting for her to speak. Finally Sydney sighed. I really don't know. I mean, part of me feels that I have a duty to stay and find Sark, or figure out what Sloane meant. But, I also want to pursue my teaching career. I worked so hard for it, and now I finally have it, and I almost don't want it. Is that wrong?
No, not at all. When you set your mind on something, you don't give in. And you set your mind on getting Sloane and Sark in prison. I don't blame you for wanting to find Sark. If I was in your position I probably would too. He noticed Sydney's frustrated train of thought in her eyes. Really, let's not think about it now. Let's just enjoy the movie. Sydney kissed him lightly on his forehead and turned back to her movie watching position. Hey, why aren't you kissing me on my lips anymore? he asked a moment later, giving her a pouty face.
she blushed slightly, I don't want it to lead to... vigorous activity.
Vaughn chuckled. But I miss it.
Sydney shut the movie off and turned to face him. Just a little kiss. I'm not going to be the person who ruins your recovery! She leaned forward and let her lips brush across his own. It was complete heaven for Vaughn at the moment.
Finally Sydney pulled away slowly. Thank-you very much. That was much needed, Vaughn said. Syd hugged him tightly as she turned the movie back on. She fell asleep just before the movie ended when Audrey Hepburn and George Peppard were kissing in the rain.
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Do you see her yet? Vaughn asked eagerly into his cell phone.
Yeah, she's coming around the corner with Francie... And they just entered another store, replied Eric Weiss from the other end.
Thanks for following Syd around for me. I just want to make sure I have enough time to get ready. By the way, you overfed my dog while I was in the hospital.
I did not!
Yes you did. Now he's fat and lazy.
Sorry to break it to you, but he was fat and lazy before, Vaughn could hear Weiss laughing at himself.
Vaughn had only been home for a few days. Sydney had continually told him to stay in bed, which Vaughn couldn't stand to do all day. Though tonight, however, he would ignore Sydney's pleas.
Everything is going to be so perfect! Vaughn grinned as he was still talking to Eric. He walked (yes, walked, though that was another thing that Sydney was against him doing) himself into the kitchen and checked on the food. Food is good, my clothes... well they suck, ring, he felt in his pocket, check. Do you think I should attempt a suit at this point? Are they still in that store? What if they come back too early? What if –
Calm down. Everything will work out perfectly, you'll see, Weiss said to comfort him. And I'd say go for the suit.
It better be perfect. Ok, well I'll go change into a suit and you can give me a call when they're leaving.
Ok, bye, Vaughn went to hang up the phone, Wait, wait Mike, they're leaving now.
Vaughn barely heard him yelling. What, now?!
No, I'm just kidding. YES, NOW!
Oh shit, oh shit... I got to go! he quickly ended his phone conversation and walked into his bedroom. He was careful not to run so he wouldn't hurt his heart. He wished he could hurry, though. He tried to calmly change, but he was worried that Sydney would come home too soon. Before he knew it, he had his suit on and he was taking the food out of the oven and setting in on the table.
He had just lit two candles on the table as Sydney walked in the door carrying many shopping bags.
Mike, what are you doing out of bed? I... she set her bags down and looked at the beautiful dinner he had made. Vaughn, this looks wonderful. She stepped forward and hugged him tightly. And look at you, all dressed up. Don't you look handsome. Vaughn stroked her back lovingly. She pulled back so she could look into his eyes. No, no, you aren't handsome... you're gorgeous.
Vaughn didn't lose her gaze. Come on. Let's eat. We have some important things to talk about.
Do we? Syd asked as she raised her eyebrows.
Well, I have some important things to talk about. He led Sydney closer to the table and helped her in her seat before sitting in his own. Vaughn wanted to wait until they were done eating before he brought up his important matters, so he began with some small talk. Did you have fun with Francie today?
Yeah. It was great! I haven't seen her in so long, especially with me being in the hospital with you, and now me kind of moving in here. She smiled.
Have you told her about SD-6 and the CIA yet?
Syd frowned slightly. I'm not sure if I want to just yet. Suddenly she smirked. Will has a girlfriend. They continued to chat idly and banter for a while longer until they both had finished eating. Michael, that was delicious. You really didn't have to do this, though.
Yes I did. And now for dessert!
Sydney grinned, but said, You know how I love dessert, but I'm stuffed.
Don't worry, it's not exactly that kind of dessert. Sydney looked at him, confused. Just as he took hold of her hand, the phone began to ring. Sydney started to get, but Vaughn stopped her. Wait. Let the machine get it. She sat back down and gripped his hand tighter.
Syd, ever since you first walked into the CIA, I felt a connection to you. Sure, it took us a couple of years and a mission to admit our love, but we made it. Even though protocol didn't allow us to be together, we made it. Now after all the secrecy is done, we have nothing to lose. I love you, Sydney, more than anything in the world. And nothing can change that; or ever will change that. So I ask you, he reached for his pocket just as he lowered onto one knee. He opened up a familiar velvet box revealing a diamond ring to Sydney. The candlelight reflected off of it, scattering it about the room, and causing Sydney's face to glow.
Will you marry me, Sydney Bristow?
The answering machine beeped' and then the message began to record. It was Weiss.
Vaughn, Vaughn, pick up! I know you're busy... but Sydney needs to get down here now, there's an emergency!
Sydney looked back and forth between the phone and Vaughn before whispering, To be continued...
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A/N: IS ANYONE ELSE AS TICKED OFF AS I AM ABOUT THE SEASON FINALE?!?! I was sooo mad at Vaughn. Maybe JJ Abrams is just playing with us and she is just having a strange/evil dream... Though probably not (sadly). I don't think I can wait nearly 5 months for season 3.
Anywho- Yeah I know this one was filled with a lot of fluff. But the last chapter was so dramatic that this one needed to be fluffy. And the movie they were watching was Breakfast at Tiffany's, one of my faves. I don't own it, by the way. And as for Vaughn's mom, I read that in real life his mom was American, though I don't know about on the show. Plus, I don't know any French. Until Part II!
~Whitelighter Enchantress