A/N: A new chapter to boot! Please review. Thanks to Ferris Valyn for his
help on this chapter.
"All right, Buffy." Willow spoke into the telephone. Buffy had called to tell them about Cordelia. Though she was a bit confused about the backstory, Willow understood enough to realize that Cordelia had just woken up from a coma, and it would be a good thing to go and see her. "Yeah, we'll be there. I've got the new address right here. I'll get Xander and Dawn, and we'll meet you there." Willow said, before hanging up.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------
"Don't worry. You can't miss it." Angel smiled as Buffy spoke to Willow on her phone. Cordelia was awake, and he wanted everyone there. "I'm glad she's awake." Buffy told him, getting his attention. It was hard to stay focused.
"It's kind of a miracle. They said she'd never wake up." Angel replied, looking even more elated, if that were possible. He imagined he was looking rather happy right now, and wondered if and how much his reaction was freaking her out. He couldn't recall being this happy before. The only time that had ever come close had been we he and Buffy had...Angel stopped that thought. There was no use going there. Impatient, Angel tapped his fingers against the leather seat of the limo. Could this thing go any slower?, he thought to himself. Cordelia was awake. She was asking for him. Angel grinned at that thought. He could hardly believe it. The Powers had really come through for him this time. He pictured her in his mind. Her silky, dark hair just brushing her shoulders. The tenderness of her hazel eyes. The smile that knocked him out everytime she deemed to direct it his way. The feel of her lips beneath his own. The smile on his face slipped at that thought, and an un- needed breath caught in his throat. Would she still love him? Did he still love her? Could he really forgive the things that she had done? Could he forget the sight of her with Connor? At that he winced. Only Angel remembered that he had a son and he knew it was better that way. He wasn't sure if Cordy would remember Connor or not. He was hoping for not. It would make things easier, that's for sure. A hand on his arm got his attention.
"Angel?" Buffy asked, concerned. He looked down at her. "Are you all right?" She wanted to know.
"Yeah. Just lost in thought. It's so unexpected." Angel answered her. He leaned over and pushed the intercom button. The voice of the driver was heard a moment later.
"Sir?" The driver asked.
"I'll double you're salary if you get us back to headquarters in less then 15 mins." Angel told the driver.
"Yes, sir." The driver answered, pushing down on the gas pedal. Buffy frowned as the driver noticeably sped up the car.
"Angel, it might just be me, but I'm kinda picking up on more than just you're average employer/employee relationship." Buffy began, hesitation evident in her voice. Angel wasn't sure how to answer. The truth would hurt.
"Over the years, Buffy, we've gotten to be pretty good friends." He explained, hoping it would pacify her. No such luck.
"It seems like more than a 'just friends' thing too." Buffy hedged, sounding unconvinced. Angel clearly didn't want to talk about it, but she pushed anyway.
"It's complicated, Buffy." He told her.
"How complicated?" She asked, her concern for him clear.
"You and Spike complicated." Angel answered, sighing.
"Oh, boy." Buffy replied.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------
"Wow." Willow breathed, unable to think of anything else.
"Talk about moving on up." Dawn managed.
Willow, Xander and Dawn were contemplating Angel's headquarters. They were standing in a group, ogling the building much like Buffy had on her earlier visit.
"Yeah, to that deluxe apartment in the sky." Xander finished the pun. They gaped another minute before Willow took the lead, and pulled open the heavy glass door. The lobby was deserted, save one lone figure leaning against a desk labeled 'Information', and the trio's footsteps echoed in the large room. Dawn watched Xander in her peripheral vision as he glanced up at the ceiling, his one good eye taking in the architecture and construction work done on the building. She smiled. He was all but drooling. Willow whimpered, getting Dawn's attention.
"Sorry." Dawn whispered to Willow, apologizing for the death grip she had on the witch's hand. "I'm nervous, and I know I'm acting like a two-year old, but I can't help it." She finished. This was her first time seeing Angel, Wesley or Cordelia since they had lit out of Sunnydale and never looked back. Ok, so there may have been one or two glances in Buffy's direction, but not hers. Hence the nervousness, She thought. 'Hence?' Dawn grimaced at her internal monologue. Great. Now she was channeling Giles. Technically, she hadn't actually met any of L.A. bunch. She was, after all, really on a couple of years old. Wesley, Cordelia and Angel had hightailed it out of Sunnydale before her keyness had been made into human form and sent to Buffy. She tugged absently on one of the ends of her curly hair with her free hand.
Dawn observed that Wesley straightened up as they crossed the lobby to where he stood. She watched the expression on his face as they walked closer. She saw him take in Xander's eyepatch, and for a moment Wesley's expression matched one she'd seen on Xander's face. It was the expression of someone who'd lost something dear to them. The expression of someone who'd sacrificed. Buffy had the look down cold as well.
Dawn was startled when Willow let go of her hand. Blinking, she realized that they were standing in front of Wesley, and Willow was saying hello.
"Wesley." Willow greeted warmly, hugging the ex-watcher as they came to a stop in front of him. He hugged her back.
"You look good." He said to her.
"You look better. Clean shaven." Willow pointed out, stepping back and gesturing to his now beardless face. He smiled a bit sheepishly, and turned to Xander.
"Xander." Wesley said, holding his hand out to be shaken.
"Wes." Xander replied, shaking Wesley's outstretched hand.
"Dawn. All grown up." Wesley commented his hello. She blushed, wrapping a curl around her finger. Wesley thought she was grown up?
"Thanks." She murmured in reply. An awkward silence reigned for a moment, and then Wesley continued speaking.
"Cordy's going to be really happy to see you." He said.
"How long was she in a coma?" Xander wanted to know, his voice full of concern for his former girlfriend. Dawn knew that even though they'd had an awful breakup, Xander still cared about Cordelia. He wouldn't wish anything bad on her, a fact she'd learned one night eavesdropping on a phone call between him and Buffy.
"A couple of months." Wesley began, leading them over to the elevator. He pushed the button, and after a moment, the elevator doors slid open. "She gave birth, and it was a very painful birthing process." He said.
"What the hell did she give birth to? We've only heard a little bit." Xander asked, as they watched the elevator doors slide closed again. Dawn wondered the same thing herself.
"Well, um..." Wesley paused, and sent a look to Willow and Xander that Dawn saw. She knew it. They were going to make her wait over there while they talked about whatever it was they thought she was too young to handle. "Actually, Dawn, could you wait over there? I'd like to tell Willow and Xander first." He continued. Dawn sighed. Had she called that one or what.
Dawn walked a short distance away, and flopped down into a cushy chair. Several of them were spread out across the lobby, and Dawn absentmindedly ran her fingers over the fabric as she watched Wesley, Willow and Xander talk. Her attention was taken away from the chair when she heard Willow speak loudly.
"We can't keep this from her, Wes. Dawn's a big girl. She can handle this. She's handled worse." Willow said, causing Dawn to give her a grateful smile.
"Are you sure?" Wesley asked.
"We're sure." Xander chimed in. Dawn was blown away by Willow and Xander's comments as she rejoined them
"I take it this has something to do with whatever Cordy gave birth to?" Dawn asked. Wesley nodded.
"She gave birth to...well, to a creature that can only be described as Glory-like. A God." He explained. Dawn felt like a science experiment, with the three of them staring at her for a reaction.
" So, what your saying is, another bitch-goddess decided to take up residence here? Did her plans involve needing me or my blood or anything else that's vital to me?" Dawn questioned Wesley.
"No." Wesley answered, unsure of what Dawn was getting at.
"Then why the hell did you think that I wouldn't be able to handle it?" She wanted to know her eyes flashing, but her tone cool.
"I was afraid the subject of Glory might be a little sore for you and I..." Wesley began, but Dawn cut him off.
"Don't treat me like a child." Dawn interrupted him, crossing her arms over her chest. Everyone was silent, until Dawn went on. "Are we going to see Cordy or not?" She asked, her tone extremely cross.
"Err, yes." He answered. Flustered, Wesley pushed the button, and then elevator doors reopened. As they all trailed inside, Willow spoke up.
"For future reference, Wes, it would just be easier to tell her." She said, bringing a smile to Dawn's face. Finally, they were accepting her as a grown up.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------
Cordelia stared at the monitor. It blipped in a regular beat. She lay against her pillow, and just watched. The steady beat meant two things. One, that she was alive. Two was that she was alive and she was awake. Really awake. She was herself for the first time in nearly a year. Cordelia pinched her thigh; as she was too tired to move her hand over to her other arm, checking to see if it was a dream. Making sure that It hadn't fooled her into thinking she'd woken up. Making sure It was just a figment of her imagination. It hurt. She smiled, and looked up at the doctor.
She sighed, as she watched the doctor putting his notes on her chart. He had refused to let anyone in until he'd completed an examination, which she understood. Really, she did. She was, however, frustrated about it. She hadn't seen any of her friends for so long. Sure, her body had walked with them and talked with them, but she hadn't been in control. Jasmine, the deity she'd given birth to, had been the one in control. Cordelia had been unable to do anything but watch. Watch, listen, and cringe. So many times she had tried to get through, tried to get past Jasmine. She had wanted so much to reunite her family, to reunite Connor with his father. Instead, Jasmine had forced her to break it apart, going so far as to sleep with Connor. Cordelia groaned, getting the doctor's attention.
"Are you in any pain?" he asked, his expression concerned.
"No." Cordelia answered, shifting under the covers. ".... And yes." She went on. "My ankle hurts." She moved it slightly, and gasped. It hurt really badly. The doctor pulled the cover back, and looked her ankle over.
"I'll need an ex-ray for sure, but I'd say it's pretty near shattered." The doctor told her, the surprise clearly evident in his voice. Shattered. The word reverbated through her brain. Shattered. Her ankle had been broken in her fight against It. Apparently it had physically manifested itself. Which meant that what had happened in head had been more than just some random memories at work. It was something else. She could only think of one other time something like this had happened, and Wolfram and Hart had been responsible. The same Wolfram and Hart who had given Angel the building she was now in. "Let me get you something for the pain." The doctor went on. She nodded absently, contemplating her situation.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------
The elevator dinged, and the doors opened. Wesley lead them out into the hall, and Dawn was taken aback by the small group already seated in the waiting room. One glance at Xander and Willow, and she gathered they were too.
Dawn stayed behind Willow and Xander as Wesley sent introductions around the room. She waited while Willow hugged Fred, Gunn, and Lorne, and Xander shook their hands. She wondered how much they Angel's group knew about each of them. She suspected they knew most of Willow's story, and probably a decent amount about her, but she really wasn't certain how much they knew about Xander. She instantly noticed their aversion to his eye patch, and was just as sure that Xander noticed as well. She wondered how he was holding up. He hadn't been talking to her much lately. Mostly he'd just hung out with Willow.
Dawn sighed and shook hands with Fred, Gunn and Lorne as well. After the introductions were complete, the group took seats. She, along with Willow and Xander sat down in three chairs next to each other. They sat facing Wes, Fred, Gunn and Lorne. Neither group wanted to speak first. Finally, Xander broke the silence.
"So, Deadboy's given up his quest for redemption, huh?" He wanted to know. Dawn smiled. Leave it to Xander to resort name-calling and insults where Angel was concerned. She only hoped that he behaved himself when said vampire actually arrived.
"What makes you say that?" Wesley asked, sounding wary.
"Why else would he have this posh new pad?" Xander replied.
"It's complicated." Wesley answered, after exchanging looks with his three-team members.
"So, Fred. How are things?" Willow asked, shooting Xander a look while changing the subject.
"Good. I run the science lab here. We're inventing lots of neat things." Fred answered, obviously pleased that Willow had asked. Dawn observed for a moment as everyone began making small talk. Wes and Xander were catching up on old times while comparing old battle details with Gunn, and Willow and Fred were talking about her new invention. She tuned them out, allowing herself to think back to her dream the night before. It was the first time she'd really had to think about it all day. Twirling on of her fingers through her hair, she leaned back into her chair and allowed herself to think about HIM. The boy with the chocolate brown eyes, and the smile that made them crinkle up in that very cute way. She let herself remember they touch of his hands and the feel of his kiss.
The doctor frowned as he checked his needle to make sure it held the proper dosage. Cordelia was still trying to figure out exactly what she was going to say to Angel once she was allowed to see him. Obviously, 'Hi, I'm sorry for screwing your son silly.' wasn't going to get it done. She only hoped that Angel could get past it. Connor as well. Oh God. How was she going to face Connor after what she'd put him through? She'd slept with him, led him on. All those months. She brought a hand to her mouth, determined not to cry. It wouldn't do any good. What was done, was done. She could try to make it up to both of them in future.
She tried not to move as she waited for the doctor to get her pain medication. Cordelia was still having a bit of trouble believing that Angel now ran this place. She shuddered a bit. Wolfram and Hart had owned this building a long time and a lot of people had died here. Including the staff, as she duly remembered The Beast's little adventure here. In fact, Wesley had told her that the office had been given to them fully staffed and redecorated. Cordelia gasped as she felt a pinch in her arm, and a weightless feeling took her over.
"Dawn? Daaawwwn. Earth to Dawn."
Dawn suddenly realized that someone was speaking to her. She briefly wondered how many minutes she had been lost in thought. She looked quickly around the room, and saw that Angel and Buffy had arrived, and that Buffy was trying to get her attention.
"Dawn!" Buffy asked, sounding impatient.
"Sorry. I was thinking." Dawn apologized, looking up at her sister. "How'd things go at the bank?" She wanted to know. It was clear that something had happened, because Buffy had a white handkerchief tied around her upper arm.
"Well. You were right. There was something fishy going on." Buffy informed the group as she and Angel took seats. "And this was in Spike's safety deposit box." She went on, handing the book to Wesley. He didn't seem to recognize it, but Dawn, Willow and Xander did.
"Buffy, isn't that your...?" Dawn trailed off, taking the book from Wes. He looked surprised as she took his from him.
"It's my scythe. Flip it over." Buffy replied. Dawn gasped.
"Isn't that the body candy Spike was wearing when..." Dawn began.
"Yeah, that was the amulet he wore into the hellmouth." Buffy gave her a look. "Body candy?" Buffy finished.
"What?" Dawn replied defensive. "It's all the rage in Seventeen this month."
The others in the room looked a little confused, but not completely out of it. They knew who Buffy and Spike were. It didn't take a genius to realize that the book was important. The conversation would have gone further, but Cordelia's doctor took that moment to come out and interrupt. Dawn shoved the book behind her back. She didn't know why, but something told her to hide it.
"I'm afraid I've got some bad news. Miss. Chase has slipped back into her coma." He said, giving them a pained look. "I'm sorry." The doctor went on. Wes was the first to recover.
"Can we see her?" He asked. The doctor nodded.
"I'm sorry." The doctor told them before quietly leaving the waiting room. Dawn looked at Fred. The poor girl had started to cry. Willow and Xander looked a little teary as well, and Buffy just had a sad expression on her face. Dawn felt sad as well, but she hadn't really known Cordelia. Wes and Gunn were trying to offer Fred some comfort when Angel suddenly exploded. He grabbed Wesley by the collar and pushed him against the wall roughly.
"Wes, I want to know exactly what happened." Angel said, clearly trying to maintain his cool.
"I'll tell you what happened." Xander replied, before Wes could say anything. "You were sloppy, just like you always are." Dawn could see the sparks almost coming off of Angel as Xander continued, and she saw Buffy try to wave him off, but he kept talking. "Anytime one of my female friends gets around you, they get hurt, Angel. Hurt bad." Xander appeared finished, but before anyone else could speak, he got in one last dig. "And can't keep it in your pants." He zinged.
Angel was silent, just staring at Xander. The rest of them were cringing at Xander's outburst, hoping that Angel wouldn't over react. Angel spun around, and everyone gasped in horror as angel punched Xander in his good eye, and Xander crumpled to the floor.
"You don't think I did my damnedest to help Cordy? To help Buffy? Faith? Darla?" With each name, he kicked Xander. Everyone watched in stunned horror at the fight unfolding before them. Angel picked Xander up and held him by his throat. "I don't deny I really screwed things up Xander, and I know I'll be paying for my mistakes. Go ask Faith - she's seen it first hand. You have no idea how hard things can be." Angel turned his head, and started to cry.
"Angel." Buffy commanded, putting her hand on his arm. "Put him down. It's not his fault." Angel hesitated, looking down at her. Angel loosened his grip with her help, and Xander slumped to the floor, breathing heavily. Angel stalked off, heading towards Cordy's room. As soon as Angel reached maximum safe distance, Buffy helped Xander up. She straightened his clothes, checking to make sure he was ok. Then she whapped him on the back of the head.
"Ow!" He exclaimed, looking offended.
"What did you do that for?" Buffy demanded. Everyone else stared at him, wanting to know the same thing. He grinned sheepishly.
"I figured he was gonna explode, and it would be better if he took it out on me. He's not my friend, and I didn't think he could stand hurting someone he actually cared about." Xander explained, getting shocked looks from his friends. "What? Just because I can't stand him doesn't mean I want to see him in pain." Xander said. Buffy grinned at him, and hugged him tightly. She turned to Wesley.
"Get Xander checked out, ok? Make sure nothings broken. Well, besides his brain, anyway." With that, Buffy turned and headed in the direction Angel had gone.
Cordelia sat up as a low laugh reached her ears. She cringed. Right back where she had been. She got up, and turned to face It. It was smirking, giving her a look that screamed over-confidence.
"You didn't really think you could get away, did you?" It asked, moving towards her like a panther. Stalking her like she was prey. After all, that's what she was. Cordelia remained silent as It moved closer. She refused to let him goad her. She had gotten away. She would get away again. "You wanna cat and mouse with me all day, that's just fine. I'm not going anywhere." It smiled evilly. Cordy shuddered, but refused to give into It. He would have to take her kicking and screaming.
"You won't get away with this. I won't let you." Cordelia spat at it. It let out howls of derisive laughter.
"Well, now. That's a bit of a cliche, isn't it." It replied, clearly not believing her.
"Just because it's cliched and overused, doesn't make it any less true." Cordelia pointed out, trying to determine the best way to get away from It, at least for the moment. If they were indeed trapped inside her head, then it was clear he'd eventually find her again. But, like last time, she knew she'd get away, that she would wake up before it was too late.
"Then I have to apologize to you." It said, looking almost sorry. "Because I am going to get away with it. There's nothing you can do to stop me." It cackled slightly, and Cordelia felt a cold seep deep into her bones. Gritting her teeth, she took off running once more, mindful of her ankle.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------
Buffy watched as Angel stared at Cordelia. The brunette was lying still, her machines making all the appropriate noises. It looked like she was simply sleeping, and any moment she would wake up. Angel took her hand, and together they walked to Cordelia's side. Angel sat down in the chair, while Buffy stood behind it. Her eyes welled up a little bit as Angel reached out and brushed a lock of Cordy's hair off her forehead.
Angel had done that for me once, Buffy thought, remembering the time she'd been able to read minds. Angel had found her a cure, and stayed by her bed to make sure it worked. She understood that he felt helpless. It was hard to watch a friend suffer. But they're more than friends, Buffy reminded herself. While she did regret that she and Angel were not together any more, she didn't begrudge him happiness with someone else. As long as it wasn't perfect happiness, by any means, then Angel was free to move on with his life. She had.
"Why didn't you wait for me? Why couldn't you hang on a little longer, Cordy?" Angel asked Cordelia's still form. Buffy's heart went out to them. Things had been complicated between her and Spike, but near the end, it had been really good. As far as she could tell, Angel and Cordy had never gotten anything but the complications. Maybe they never would. Angel was holding Cordelia's hand between both of his, and looking at her somberly. Buffy sighed. It wasn't fair that Angel, someone who was trying so hard to redeem himself, couldn't have anyone. This wasn't the first time the thought had crossed her mind. Back when Angel had said he was leaving her, she had thought it over and over. It just came down to the fact that life wasn't fair. And when you put it that way, she thought wryly, life just plain sucked sometimes. "Just so you know, Buffy...I feel the same way about her that you did about Spike." Angel said, startling her out of her thoughts. She put her hand on his arm
"It's do, not did, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Not now." Buffy told him. Quietly, she backed out of the room and shut the door behind her. Angel deserved some alone time with Cordelia. She came face to face with the rest of the group. Brushing tears out of her eyes, Buffy gave them a watery smile. "He needs a few minutes." She sort of announced. The members of the A.I. gang nodded. They knew how much Cordy meant to Angel. Dawn and her friends looked sort of confused, but didn't say much. They were all busy thinking about their own visits to Cordelia.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------
Dawn yawned. It was getting late, and she had to be up early. She had plans with Kit, her only remaining Sunnydale friend. When Kit's parents figured out that it would be good to get out of good ol' Sunnydale, Dawn had been relieved to find out that they'd only relocated as far as L.A. That, and they had ended up in the same neighborhood. Dawn shifted, struggling to find a new position in the once comfortable chair. Buffy patted her hand sympathetically. They were waiting on Xander to finish his visit with Cordy, and then they were going to head home.
"Are you sure I should still go out with Kit in the morning?" Dawn double-checked her plans with he sister. Now that they'd found this book, and Cordelia had slipped back into her coma, she wasn't sure it would be all right to go out with her friend.
"It's fine, Dawn." Buffy said, smiling at her. "I've got plenty of help." She gestured to the group around her. Dawn still wasn't sure.
"I can cancel, Buffy. Kit will understand." She told her sister. Kit knew about most things that went bump in the night. Ever since their little trip to the Sunnydale High basement, Kit had been well advised as to what really went on in the town at night.
"It's all right, Dawn. Go, hang out with Kit. We'll be fine." Buffy reassured her. Dawn settled back into her chair, placated. "Just as long as you get me that new sweater I've been wanting." Buffy continued after a minute, grinning at her. Dawn faked a groan, and put her head in her hands.
"Knew there'd be a catch." She said.
Xander came out of Cordy's room and he'd barely cleared the door before Angel went past him, inside. Dawn watched as he opened his mouth to comment, but thought better of it and said nothing. He walked over to their group.
"You femmes ready?" He asked. Dawn was more than ready. Their group got to their feet, said their good-byes, and headed out into the night.
"All right, Buffy." Willow spoke into the telephone. Buffy had called to tell them about Cordelia. Though she was a bit confused about the backstory, Willow understood enough to realize that Cordelia had just woken up from a coma, and it would be a good thing to go and see her. "Yeah, we'll be there. I've got the new address right here. I'll get Xander and Dawn, and we'll meet you there." Willow said, before hanging up.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------
"Don't worry. You can't miss it." Angel smiled as Buffy spoke to Willow on her phone. Cordelia was awake, and he wanted everyone there. "I'm glad she's awake." Buffy told him, getting his attention. It was hard to stay focused.
"It's kind of a miracle. They said she'd never wake up." Angel replied, looking even more elated, if that were possible. He imagined he was looking rather happy right now, and wondered if and how much his reaction was freaking her out. He couldn't recall being this happy before. The only time that had ever come close had been we he and Buffy had...Angel stopped that thought. There was no use going there. Impatient, Angel tapped his fingers against the leather seat of the limo. Could this thing go any slower?, he thought to himself. Cordelia was awake. She was asking for him. Angel grinned at that thought. He could hardly believe it. The Powers had really come through for him this time. He pictured her in his mind. Her silky, dark hair just brushing her shoulders. The tenderness of her hazel eyes. The smile that knocked him out everytime she deemed to direct it his way. The feel of her lips beneath his own. The smile on his face slipped at that thought, and an un- needed breath caught in his throat. Would she still love him? Did he still love her? Could he really forgive the things that she had done? Could he forget the sight of her with Connor? At that he winced. Only Angel remembered that he had a son and he knew it was better that way. He wasn't sure if Cordy would remember Connor or not. He was hoping for not. It would make things easier, that's for sure. A hand on his arm got his attention.
"Angel?" Buffy asked, concerned. He looked down at her. "Are you all right?" She wanted to know.
"Yeah. Just lost in thought. It's so unexpected." Angel answered her. He leaned over and pushed the intercom button. The voice of the driver was heard a moment later.
"Sir?" The driver asked.
"I'll double you're salary if you get us back to headquarters in less then 15 mins." Angel told the driver.
"Yes, sir." The driver answered, pushing down on the gas pedal. Buffy frowned as the driver noticeably sped up the car.
"Angel, it might just be me, but I'm kinda picking up on more than just you're average employer/employee relationship." Buffy began, hesitation evident in her voice. Angel wasn't sure how to answer. The truth would hurt.
"Over the years, Buffy, we've gotten to be pretty good friends." He explained, hoping it would pacify her. No such luck.
"It seems like more than a 'just friends' thing too." Buffy hedged, sounding unconvinced. Angel clearly didn't want to talk about it, but she pushed anyway.
"It's complicated, Buffy." He told her.
"How complicated?" She asked, her concern for him clear.
"You and Spike complicated." Angel answered, sighing.
"Oh, boy." Buffy replied.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------
"Wow." Willow breathed, unable to think of anything else.
"Talk about moving on up." Dawn managed.
Willow, Xander and Dawn were contemplating Angel's headquarters. They were standing in a group, ogling the building much like Buffy had on her earlier visit.
"Yeah, to that deluxe apartment in the sky." Xander finished the pun. They gaped another minute before Willow took the lead, and pulled open the heavy glass door. The lobby was deserted, save one lone figure leaning against a desk labeled 'Information', and the trio's footsteps echoed in the large room. Dawn watched Xander in her peripheral vision as he glanced up at the ceiling, his one good eye taking in the architecture and construction work done on the building. She smiled. He was all but drooling. Willow whimpered, getting Dawn's attention.
"Sorry." Dawn whispered to Willow, apologizing for the death grip she had on the witch's hand. "I'm nervous, and I know I'm acting like a two-year old, but I can't help it." She finished. This was her first time seeing Angel, Wesley or Cordelia since they had lit out of Sunnydale and never looked back. Ok, so there may have been one or two glances in Buffy's direction, but not hers. Hence the nervousness, She thought. 'Hence?' Dawn grimaced at her internal monologue. Great. Now she was channeling Giles. Technically, she hadn't actually met any of L.A. bunch. She was, after all, really on a couple of years old. Wesley, Cordelia and Angel had hightailed it out of Sunnydale before her keyness had been made into human form and sent to Buffy. She tugged absently on one of the ends of her curly hair with her free hand.
Dawn observed that Wesley straightened up as they crossed the lobby to where he stood. She watched the expression on his face as they walked closer. She saw him take in Xander's eyepatch, and for a moment Wesley's expression matched one she'd seen on Xander's face. It was the expression of someone who'd lost something dear to them. The expression of someone who'd sacrificed. Buffy had the look down cold as well.
Dawn was startled when Willow let go of her hand. Blinking, she realized that they were standing in front of Wesley, and Willow was saying hello.
"Wesley." Willow greeted warmly, hugging the ex-watcher as they came to a stop in front of him. He hugged her back.
"You look good." He said to her.
"You look better. Clean shaven." Willow pointed out, stepping back and gesturing to his now beardless face. He smiled a bit sheepishly, and turned to Xander.
"Xander." Wesley said, holding his hand out to be shaken.
"Wes." Xander replied, shaking Wesley's outstretched hand.
"Dawn. All grown up." Wesley commented his hello. She blushed, wrapping a curl around her finger. Wesley thought she was grown up?
"Thanks." She murmured in reply. An awkward silence reigned for a moment, and then Wesley continued speaking.
"Cordy's going to be really happy to see you." He said.
"How long was she in a coma?" Xander wanted to know, his voice full of concern for his former girlfriend. Dawn knew that even though they'd had an awful breakup, Xander still cared about Cordelia. He wouldn't wish anything bad on her, a fact she'd learned one night eavesdropping on a phone call between him and Buffy.
"A couple of months." Wesley began, leading them over to the elevator. He pushed the button, and after a moment, the elevator doors slid open. "She gave birth, and it was a very painful birthing process." He said.
"What the hell did she give birth to? We've only heard a little bit." Xander asked, as they watched the elevator doors slide closed again. Dawn wondered the same thing herself.
"Well, um..." Wesley paused, and sent a look to Willow and Xander that Dawn saw. She knew it. They were going to make her wait over there while they talked about whatever it was they thought she was too young to handle. "Actually, Dawn, could you wait over there? I'd like to tell Willow and Xander first." He continued. Dawn sighed. Had she called that one or what.
Dawn walked a short distance away, and flopped down into a cushy chair. Several of them were spread out across the lobby, and Dawn absentmindedly ran her fingers over the fabric as she watched Wesley, Willow and Xander talk. Her attention was taken away from the chair when she heard Willow speak loudly.
"We can't keep this from her, Wes. Dawn's a big girl. She can handle this. She's handled worse." Willow said, causing Dawn to give her a grateful smile.
"Are you sure?" Wesley asked.
"We're sure." Xander chimed in. Dawn was blown away by Willow and Xander's comments as she rejoined them
"I take it this has something to do with whatever Cordy gave birth to?" Dawn asked. Wesley nodded.
"She gave birth to...well, to a creature that can only be described as Glory-like. A God." He explained. Dawn felt like a science experiment, with the three of them staring at her for a reaction.
" So, what your saying is, another bitch-goddess decided to take up residence here? Did her plans involve needing me or my blood or anything else that's vital to me?" Dawn questioned Wesley.
"No." Wesley answered, unsure of what Dawn was getting at.
"Then why the hell did you think that I wouldn't be able to handle it?" She wanted to know her eyes flashing, but her tone cool.
"I was afraid the subject of Glory might be a little sore for you and I..." Wesley began, but Dawn cut him off.
"Don't treat me like a child." Dawn interrupted him, crossing her arms over her chest. Everyone was silent, until Dawn went on. "Are we going to see Cordy or not?" She asked, her tone extremely cross.
"Err, yes." He answered. Flustered, Wesley pushed the button, and then elevator doors reopened. As they all trailed inside, Willow spoke up.
"For future reference, Wes, it would just be easier to tell her." She said, bringing a smile to Dawn's face. Finally, they were accepting her as a grown up.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------
Cordelia stared at the monitor. It blipped in a regular beat. She lay against her pillow, and just watched. The steady beat meant two things. One, that she was alive. Two was that she was alive and she was awake. Really awake. She was herself for the first time in nearly a year. Cordelia pinched her thigh; as she was too tired to move her hand over to her other arm, checking to see if it was a dream. Making sure that It hadn't fooled her into thinking she'd woken up. Making sure It was just a figment of her imagination. It hurt. She smiled, and looked up at the doctor.
She sighed, as she watched the doctor putting his notes on her chart. He had refused to let anyone in until he'd completed an examination, which she understood. Really, she did. She was, however, frustrated about it. She hadn't seen any of her friends for so long. Sure, her body had walked with them and talked with them, but she hadn't been in control. Jasmine, the deity she'd given birth to, had been the one in control. Cordelia had been unable to do anything but watch. Watch, listen, and cringe. So many times she had tried to get through, tried to get past Jasmine. She had wanted so much to reunite her family, to reunite Connor with his father. Instead, Jasmine had forced her to break it apart, going so far as to sleep with Connor. Cordelia groaned, getting the doctor's attention.
"Are you in any pain?" he asked, his expression concerned.
"No." Cordelia answered, shifting under the covers. ".... And yes." She went on. "My ankle hurts." She moved it slightly, and gasped. It hurt really badly. The doctor pulled the cover back, and looked her ankle over.
"I'll need an ex-ray for sure, but I'd say it's pretty near shattered." The doctor told her, the surprise clearly evident in his voice. Shattered. The word reverbated through her brain. Shattered. Her ankle had been broken in her fight against It. Apparently it had physically manifested itself. Which meant that what had happened in head had been more than just some random memories at work. It was something else. She could only think of one other time something like this had happened, and Wolfram and Hart had been responsible. The same Wolfram and Hart who had given Angel the building she was now in. "Let me get you something for the pain." The doctor went on. She nodded absently, contemplating her situation.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------
The elevator dinged, and the doors opened. Wesley lead them out into the hall, and Dawn was taken aback by the small group already seated in the waiting room. One glance at Xander and Willow, and she gathered they were too.
Dawn stayed behind Willow and Xander as Wesley sent introductions around the room. She waited while Willow hugged Fred, Gunn, and Lorne, and Xander shook their hands. She wondered how much they Angel's group knew about each of them. She suspected they knew most of Willow's story, and probably a decent amount about her, but she really wasn't certain how much they knew about Xander. She instantly noticed their aversion to his eye patch, and was just as sure that Xander noticed as well. She wondered how he was holding up. He hadn't been talking to her much lately. Mostly he'd just hung out with Willow.
Dawn sighed and shook hands with Fred, Gunn and Lorne as well. After the introductions were complete, the group took seats. She, along with Willow and Xander sat down in three chairs next to each other. They sat facing Wes, Fred, Gunn and Lorne. Neither group wanted to speak first. Finally, Xander broke the silence.
"So, Deadboy's given up his quest for redemption, huh?" He wanted to know. Dawn smiled. Leave it to Xander to resort name-calling and insults where Angel was concerned. She only hoped that he behaved himself when said vampire actually arrived.
"What makes you say that?" Wesley asked, sounding wary.
"Why else would he have this posh new pad?" Xander replied.
"It's complicated." Wesley answered, after exchanging looks with his three-team members.
"So, Fred. How are things?" Willow asked, shooting Xander a look while changing the subject.
"Good. I run the science lab here. We're inventing lots of neat things." Fred answered, obviously pleased that Willow had asked. Dawn observed for a moment as everyone began making small talk. Wes and Xander were catching up on old times while comparing old battle details with Gunn, and Willow and Fred were talking about her new invention. She tuned them out, allowing herself to think back to her dream the night before. It was the first time she'd really had to think about it all day. Twirling on of her fingers through her hair, she leaned back into her chair and allowed herself to think about HIM. The boy with the chocolate brown eyes, and the smile that made them crinkle up in that very cute way. She let herself remember they touch of his hands and the feel of his kiss.
The doctor frowned as he checked his needle to make sure it held the proper dosage. Cordelia was still trying to figure out exactly what she was going to say to Angel once she was allowed to see him. Obviously, 'Hi, I'm sorry for screwing your son silly.' wasn't going to get it done. She only hoped that Angel could get past it. Connor as well. Oh God. How was she going to face Connor after what she'd put him through? She'd slept with him, led him on. All those months. She brought a hand to her mouth, determined not to cry. It wouldn't do any good. What was done, was done. She could try to make it up to both of them in future.
She tried not to move as she waited for the doctor to get her pain medication. Cordelia was still having a bit of trouble believing that Angel now ran this place. She shuddered a bit. Wolfram and Hart had owned this building a long time and a lot of people had died here. Including the staff, as she duly remembered The Beast's little adventure here. In fact, Wesley had told her that the office had been given to them fully staffed and redecorated. Cordelia gasped as she felt a pinch in her arm, and a weightless feeling took her over.
"Dawn? Daaawwwn. Earth to Dawn."
Dawn suddenly realized that someone was speaking to her. She briefly wondered how many minutes she had been lost in thought. She looked quickly around the room, and saw that Angel and Buffy had arrived, and that Buffy was trying to get her attention.
"Dawn!" Buffy asked, sounding impatient.
"Sorry. I was thinking." Dawn apologized, looking up at her sister. "How'd things go at the bank?" She wanted to know. It was clear that something had happened, because Buffy had a white handkerchief tied around her upper arm.
"Well. You were right. There was something fishy going on." Buffy informed the group as she and Angel took seats. "And this was in Spike's safety deposit box." She went on, handing the book to Wesley. He didn't seem to recognize it, but Dawn, Willow and Xander did.
"Buffy, isn't that your...?" Dawn trailed off, taking the book from Wes. He looked surprised as she took his from him.
"It's my scythe. Flip it over." Buffy replied. Dawn gasped.
"Isn't that the body candy Spike was wearing when..." Dawn began.
"Yeah, that was the amulet he wore into the hellmouth." Buffy gave her a look. "Body candy?" Buffy finished.
"What?" Dawn replied defensive. "It's all the rage in Seventeen this month."
The others in the room looked a little confused, but not completely out of it. They knew who Buffy and Spike were. It didn't take a genius to realize that the book was important. The conversation would have gone further, but Cordelia's doctor took that moment to come out and interrupt. Dawn shoved the book behind her back. She didn't know why, but something told her to hide it.
"I'm afraid I've got some bad news. Miss. Chase has slipped back into her coma." He said, giving them a pained look. "I'm sorry." The doctor went on. Wes was the first to recover.
"Can we see her?" He asked. The doctor nodded.
"I'm sorry." The doctor told them before quietly leaving the waiting room. Dawn looked at Fred. The poor girl had started to cry. Willow and Xander looked a little teary as well, and Buffy just had a sad expression on her face. Dawn felt sad as well, but she hadn't really known Cordelia. Wes and Gunn were trying to offer Fred some comfort when Angel suddenly exploded. He grabbed Wesley by the collar and pushed him against the wall roughly.
"Wes, I want to know exactly what happened." Angel said, clearly trying to maintain his cool.
"I'll tell you what happened." Xander replied, before Wes could say anything. "You were sloppy, just like you always are." Dawn could see the sparks almost coming off of Angel as Xander continued, and she saw Buffy try to wave him off, but he kept talking. "Anytime one of my female friends gets around you, they get hurt, Angel. Hurt bad." Xander appeared finished, but before anyone else could speak, he got in one last dig. "And can't keep it in your pants." He zinged.
Angel was silent, just staring at Xander. The rest of them were cringing at Xander's outburst, hoping that Angel wouldn't over react. Angel spun around, and everyone gasped in horror as angel punched Xander in his good eye, and Xander crumpled to the floor.
"You don't think I did my damnedest to help Cordy? To help Buffy? Faith? Darla?" With each name, he kicked Xander. Everyone watched in stunned horror at the fight unfolding before them. Angel picked Xander up and held him by his throat. "I don't deny I really screwed things up Xander, and I know I'll be paying for my mistakes. Go ask Faith - she's seen it first hand. You have no idea how hard things can be." Angel turned his head, and started to cry.
"Angel." Buffy commanded, putting her hand on his arm. "Put him down. It's not his fault." Angel hesitated, looking down at her. Angel loosened his grip with her help, and Xander slumped to the floor, breathing heavily. Angel stalked off, heading towards Cordy's room. As soon as Angel reached maximum safe distance, Buffy helped Xander up. She straightened his clothes, checking to make sure he was ok. Then she whapped him on the back of the head.
"Ow!" He exclaimed, looking offended.
"What did you do that for?" Buffy demanded. Everyone else stared at him, wanting to know the same thing. He grinned sheepishly.
"I figured he was gonna explode, and it would be better if he took it out on me. He's not my friend, and I didn't think he could stand hurting someone he actually cared about." Xander explained, getting shocked looks from his friends. "What? Just because I can't stand him doesn't mean I want to see him in pain." Xander said. Buffy grinned at him, and hugged him tightly. She turned to Wesley.
"Get Xander checked out, ok? Make sure nothings broken. Well, besides his brain, anyway." With that, Buffy turned and headed in the direction Angel had gone.
Cordelia sat up as a low laugh reached her ears. She cringed. Right back where she had been. She got up, and turned to face It. It was smirking, giving her a look that screamed over-confidence.
"You didn't really think you could get away, did you?" It asked, moving towards her like a panther. Stalking her like she was prey. After all, that's what she was. Cordelia remained silent as It moved closer. She refused to let him goad her. She had gotten away. She would get away again. "You wanna cat and mouse with me all day, that's just fine. I'm not going anywhere." It smiled evilly. Cordy shuddered, but refused to give into It. He would have to take her kicking and screaming.
"You won't get away with this. I won't let you." Cordelia spat at it. It let out howls of derisive laughter.
"Well, now. That's a bit of a cliche, isn't it." It replied, clearly not believing her.
"Just because it's cliched and overused, doesn't make it any less true." Cordelia pointed out, trying to determine the best way to get away from It, at least for the moment. If they were indeed trapped inside her head, then it was clear he'd eventually find her again. But, like last time, she knew she'd get away, that she would wake up before it was too late.
"Then I have to apologize to you." It said, looking almost sorry. "Because I am going to get away with it. There's nothing you can do to stop me." It cackled slightly, and Cordelia felt a cold seep deep into her bones. Gritting her teeth, she took off running once more, mindful of her ankle.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------
Buffy watched as Angel stared at Cordelia. The brunette was lying still, her machines making all the appropriate noises. It looked like she was simply sleeping, and any moment she would wake up. Angel took her hand, and together they walked to Cordelia's side. Angel sat down in the chair, while Buffy stood behind it. Her eyes welled up a little bit as Angel reached out and brushed a lock of Cordy's hair off her forehead.
Angel had done that for me once, Buffy thought, remembering the time she'd been able to read minds. Angel had found her a cure, and stayed by her bed to make sure it worked. She understood that he felt helpless. It was hard to watch a friend suffer. But they're more than friends, Buffy reminded herself. While she did regret that she and Angel were not together any more, she didn't begrudge him happiness with someone else. As long as it wasn't perfect happiness, by any means, then Angel was free to move on with his life. She had.
"Why didn't you wait for me? Why couldn't you hang on a little longer, Cordy?" Angel asked Cordelia's still form. Buffy's heart went out to them. Things had been complicated between her and Spike, but near the end, it had been really good. As far as she could tell, Angel and Cordy had never gotten anything but the complications. Maybe they never would. Angel was holding Cordelia's hand between both of his, and looking at her somberly. Buffy sighed. It wasn't fair that Angel, someone who was trying so hard to redeem himself, couldn't have anyone. This wasn't the first time the thought had crossed her mind. Back when Angel had said he was leaving her, she had thought it over and over. It just came down to the fact that life wasn't fair. And when you put it that way, she thought wryly, life just plain sucked sometimes. "Just so you know, Buffy...I feel the same way about her that you did about Spike." Angel said, startling her out of her thoughts. She put her hand on his arm
"It's do, not did, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Not now." Buffy told him. Quietly, she backed out of the room and shut the door behind her. Angel deserved some alone time with Cordelia. She came face to face with the rest of the group. Brushing tears out of her eyes, Buffy gave them a watery smile. "He needs a few minutes." She sort of announced. The members of the A.I. gang nodded. They knew how much Cordy meant to Angel. Dawn and her friends looked sort of confused, but didn't say much. They were all busy thinking about their own visits to Cordelia.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------
Dawn yawned. It was getting late, and she had to be up early. She had plans with Kit, her only remaining Sunnydale friend. When Kit's parents figured out that it would be good to get out of good ol' Sunnydale, Dawn had been relieved to find out that they'd only relocated as far as L.A. That, and they had ended up in the same neighborhood. Dawn shifted, struggling to find a new position in the once comfortable chair. Buffy patted her hand sympathetically. They were waiting on Xander to finish his visit with Cordy, and then they were going to head home.
"Are you sure I should still go out with Kit in the morning?" Dawn double-checked her plans with he sister. Now that they'd found this book, and Cordelia had slipped back into her coma, she wasn't sure it would be all right to go out with her friend.
"It's fine, Dawn." Buffy said, smiling at her. "I've got plenty of help." She gestured to the group around her. Dawn still wasn't sure.
"I can cancel, Buffy. Kit will understand." She told her sister. Kit knew about most things that went bump in the night. Ever since their little trip to the Sunnydale High basement, Kit had been well advised as to what really went on in the town at night.
"It's all right, Dawn. Go, hang out with Kit. We'll be fine." Buffy reassured her. Dawn settled back into her chair, placated. "Just as long as you get me that new sweater I've been wanting." Buffy continued after a minute, grinning at her. Dawn faked a groan, and put her head in her hands.
"Knew there'd be a catch." She said.
Xander came out of Cordy's room and he'd barely cleared the door before Angel went past him, inside. Dawn watched as he opened his mouth to comment, but thought better of it and said nothing. He walked over to their group.
"You femmes ready?" He asked. Dawn was more than ready. Their group got to their feet, said their good-byes, and headed out into the night.