Title: Last Slayer
Author: Inquisitive1
Disclaimer: I own only Briena
Distribution: My site http://www.angelfire.com/tv/inqsitive1sfanfiction/index.html Fanfiction.net and numerous mailing lists.
Authors Note: I am limited in email access right now. So I am working on my stories and sending them out when I am able.
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Part 19
**** Next Morning @ 9 ****
"Briena Angel's on the phone" Buffy says softly waking the little girl
Briena sits up rubbing her eyes "I get to talk to Angel?" she asks
"Yep" Buffy grins handing her the phone
"Hi Angel" Briena greets happily
"Hi little one" Angel replies "Did you have a goodnights sleep?"
"I guess" Briena answers reluctantly
"Brie did you have a bad dream?" he asks concerned
"No" Briena answers
"Just couldn't sleep huh?" he asks
"Uh huh" she says
"What are you doing today?" Angel inquires
"I dunno"
"Brie can I talk to Angel?" Buffy asks
"OK. Bye Angel"
"Bye Brie" Angel replies "I'll talk to you later"
" 'kay" Briena hands the phone to Buffy
"Brie why don't you go down to the kitchen. Mom's making breakfast"
"Is Spike still up?" Briena asks
"He's in the livingroom" Buffy tells her
"Goody" Briena says happily racing out the door and down the stairs
Buffy chuckles "So what's your plan for today?"
"I'm going to sleep then I have to meet with Kate. You?"
"Mom wants to take Brie shopping. I have to talk to Riley. Come up with some sort of explanation to why
Briena is here"
"What are you going to tell him?"
"I haven't figured that out yet" she admits. She hears Angel sigh "OK spill what's bothering you?"
"You know me way too well" he chuckles
"So tell me" she insists
"Buffy Spike told me that Riley made Brie nervous. He made Doyle nervous too."
"He's not familiar to them or you. He's not a bad guy Angel"
"To you maybe but if he makes Doyle nervous then somethings wrong with him. Doyle likes everyone... well almost everyone"
"What are you saying?" she asks
"Buff I don't want Riley left alone with Brie... ever"
"Why?"
"Because somethings off about him. I can't explain but I feel it. So do Brie, Spike and Doyle."
"All right" Buffy agrees "I won't leave him alone with her"
Angel sighs with relief. "I've got to go. Give Brie a kiss for me."
"I will" Buffy promises
"I love you baby"
"Love you too Angel"
"I'll talk to you later"
"Good. Be careful tonight"
"You too"
"Bye" Buffy says
"Bye" Angel echoes hanging up the phone
Buffy hangs up the phone and heads down the stairs where she finds Briena on the couch with Spike watching cartoons. Buffy kisses the top of Briena's head "From Angel" she says
"Hey did peaches send me one too?" Spike smirks
"No but he sent you this" she smacks him on the head "And he sent you a stake but I'll save 'til Brie's not here"
Briena looks up at Buffy "No staking Spike. He's my friend" she reminds
Joyce enters the livingroom "Yes Buffy no staking Spike." Joyce holds her hand out to Briena "Come on Brie breakfast is ready" she leads Briena into the kitchen. "Up you go" she says lifting Briena onto the stool at the kitchen counter.
"Thank you" she grins
"Your welcome" Joyce grins back putting a plate infront of Briena "Do you like pancakes?"
"Uh huh" Briena nods "But like donuts more. Angel says I can't have them everyday" she scrunches her nose up
Buffy laughs "He's right munchkin."
Joyce puts a plate infront of Buffy "Hon you are the last person who should lecture on eating habits"
"Hey I resent that. I eat healthy... when I can" Buffy protests taking a bite of her pancakes.
**** An hour later ****
"Brie sweetie are you ready?" Buffy asks picking up the little girl
"Uh huh" she nods with a grin
"Good" she carries the little girl down the stairs "Spike we're heading out. Try not to burn the house down" she teases
Spike grunts in response
"Bye Spike" Briena waves
"Bye cutie have fun" he waves
Once in the car Joyce asks "Ready?"
"I think we are" Buffy nods "Briena what do you think?"
"Yep" she agrees happily "Can we go to the pet store? Cordy takes me and sometimes they let me play with the baby animals"
"Sure we can" Joyce answers grinning at Buffy
**** 4 hours later ****
"Today wore her out" Buffy chuckles carrying the fast asleep Briena into the house.
"Its been a long day" Joyce agrees
"It has." Buffy nods carrying Briena up her bedroom. Laying Briena down Buffy removes her shoes and tucks her in with Mr. Doggie. She returns to the livingroom where she joins her mother on the couch. "She's out like a light"
"She's interested in everything."
"Angel told me that she absorbs information like a sponge. He's teaching her how to read right now."
"Kids learn quick"
"When Angel researches Briena asks him questions then if Cordelia asks him a question on a demon or something Brie tells her the answer."
"Wait a minute? Angel is teaching a 4 year old about demons?" Joyce asks concerned "It'll cause nightmares"
"We both want Brie to know about demons so she's prepared so she won't get scared when she sees them. We both wish that she never had to know about the baddies... but she has to its part of who she is... what she is."
"Are you patrolling tonight?" Joyce asks
"I guess. I have to go see Giles about some stuff"
"I have to go to the gallery this evening."
"I'll take Brie with me to Giles. He can watch her while Spike and I patrol."
"Are you sure? I can take her with me" Joyce offers
"No its fine. Just get your work done in peace" she kisses her Mom's cheek "I'm going to get some
studying done"
"All right honey"
**** 2 hours later ****
Buffy closes her book as she hears Briena walk down the stairs. "Did you have a good nap?"
Briena nods rubbing her eyes tiredly "Can I watch cartoons?"
"Its OK with me you need to ask Spike. He's watching TV right now"
" 'kay" Briena goes over to the couch "Spike?"
"Yeah pet?" Spike asks looking into the familiar brown eyes of his sire
"Can we watch cartoons?"
Spike grins "If I say no are you going to bite me?"
Briena shakes her head solemnly "Angel said no biting. Its not nice"
"That's right" Buffy says "Isn't it Spike?" she asks glaring at him daring him to say no
Spike rolls his eyes "Sure Slayer" he grins at Briena "Come on pet lets watch some cartoons." he picks her up placing her on the couch beside him.
**** Angel's apartment ****
"Angel" Cordelia calls coming down the stairs from the office "Angel" she calls louder
"What Cordy?" Angel answers exiting the bathroom wearing only his pants
Cordelia holds out a grocery bag her nose scrunched up in disgust "Here"
"Thanks" he says walking towards the kitchen he takes the bag from her.
Cordelia looks around the livingroom "Angel why haven't you put away Briena's toys?"
Angel rolls his eyes "Brie needs to take responsibility for her own things." he pours the blood into a mug putting it in the microwave "Did you find out anything else about the case?"
"Well the guy that was killed was a client of get this... Wolfram and Hart" she says
"Why am I not surprised" Angel wonders
"Anyway the guy your looking for hangs out around the abandoned factories. This guy is totally scuzzy, His clothes don't even match"
"Cordy I could care less if he has fashion sense" Angel remarks rolling his eyes "Just tell me what I need to know"
"All right" she sighs "He owes major bucks. He hangs out with demons. What's to know?"
Angel shakes his head "I'm going to go finish getting dressed. I'll be gone for a few hours."
"Sure. What do I tell Buffy if she calls?"
"Tell her I'll call when I get back." he answers heading into his room he pulls on his T-shirt and boots.
"What about Kate? What should I tell her?"
"That I'll call her when I get him." Angel replies opening the weapons cabinet. He grabs a couple knives and stakes hiding them in his clothes. Pulling on his jacket he grabs his keys
"Are you taking the cell?" Cordelia asks
Angel shakes his head "No I hate that thing"
"Angel having a cell phone makes it easier for me to get a hold of you in case of an emergency"
"I know." he groans "but I don't need to worry that the phone is going to ring in the middle of following this guy. I'll call every once in a while to check in."
"Good. Enjoy" she waves off
Angel heads out to his car
**** Summers house ****
"Are you two ready yet?" Buffy hears Spike yell from the bottom of the stairs his voice impatient
"Spike no need to wig. We'll be down in a minute." Buffy yells back
"Buffy where we going?" Briena questions
"We're going to see Giles. He's going to watch you while Spike and I patrol" Buffy answers helping Briena into her jacket
"What if Angel calls?" asks Briena
"Angel knows that if he can't reach us here then to call Giles" she assures picking up Briena and her backpack.
"Mr Doggie" Briena reminds her voice frantic
"All right" Buffy remembers grabbing the beloved stuffed dog "Here baby girl" she grins giving Briena her dog
"Thank you" Briena says kissing Buffy's cheek
"Your welcome" she smiles carrying the little girl downstairs
"Finally" Spike snaps striding out the door.
Buffy pulls the door closed behind her locking it. "Did you at least clean up the backseat Spike?" she asks as she nears the car.
"There's nothing back there that can hurt her." Spike replies
"There better not be." Buffy says moving the seat forward she buckles Briena up then gets in. As she buckles herself in Spike peels out of the driveway "Damn it Spike" she yells smacking his arm "Don't drive so fast there's a kid in the backseat"
"Relax I'm a safe driver"
"Who just happens to drive fast" Buffy mutters nervously "Brie you OK?"
Briena laughs "He drives like Cordy."
"Yeah but she doesn't have a death wish" she remarks
"Hey I got you here safe didn't I?" Spike asks pulling to a stop
"Barely" Buffy grumbles opening the door she moves the seat unbuckling Briena she picks her up. "Baby
girl you are getting heavy"
"Am not" she replies putting her arms around Buffy's neck.
Buffy follows Spike into the apartment where they find the others waiting. "Hi guys" she greets
"Oh hello" Giles says distractedly
"Hi Briena" Willow greets softly
Briena watches the redhead with interest seeing the compassion and kindness she smiles "Hi"
"Briena this is Willow, Giles, Xander, Anya, Oz and Tara" she gestures to each person
Briena smiles at them liking them all even Anya. "Hi" she says shyly
Buffy puts Briena on the couch beside Spike "Giles anything new?" she asks turning to her ex-Watcher.
"Um nothing much. Why don't you and Spike go out and see why everything is so quiet. Maybe check with Riley see if the Initiative has upped their captures" Giles suggests scanning the bookcase
Checking to see if Briena is paying attention she turns to Giles "Can you keep an eye on Briena?"
"Uh Buffy I know nothing about little kids" Giles protests
"I'll keep an eye on her" Willow offers joining them
"Thanks Will" Buffy says giving her a hug. "Look there's something else..." she checks on Briena seeing that she is being entertained by Xander turns back. "If Riley comes over don't leave her alone with him."
"why not?" Willow asks curious
"Angel doesn't trust Riley to be alone with her." Buffy explains
"Uh sure" Giles agrees
Willow nods
"Thanks" Buffy smiles turning she calls "Spike"
"What pet?"
"Come on lets get this over" she walks over to the couch "Brie Giles and Willow are going to watch you. OK?"
" 'kay." Briena nods
"We'll be back in a little while 'kay" she kisses her head "Be good"
"I will" Briena grins "Bye Spike"
"Bye cutie" Spike replies
Buffy follows Spike to the door "There's a sketchbook and pencils in the backpack alone with a couple
books and her pajamas. Oh yeah if Angel calls tell him I'll call him back"
"Right" Giles nods at the closing door
Briena looks at Willow "Can I draw?"
"Sure" Willow grins opening the backpack she hands the little girl her sketchbook and pencils "Here you
go"
"Thank you" Briena smiles brightly
"Your welcome" Willow smiles back
Part 20
****An hour later- LA: Warehouse district ****
"Who are you?" a short skinny guy wearing a cheap suit and cowboy boots demands
"Why are you following me?"
Angel looks the guy over "Not sure. Seeing if you're as dangerous as they say"
"Oh I am" the guy says his voice deadly "Guys" he calls
Angel turns to find himself being surrounded by a group of heavily armed demons "Looks like you think I'm dangerous"
"Oh I know you are Angelus" a demon hisses "I know the stories of the soulled vampire. That you betrayed your own with a Slayer" he spits out in disgust.
"I am soulled. I do love a Slayer. But betraying my own? They aren't my own" Angel growls his face changing "And the names Angel" he reminds grabbing the nearest demon he snaps its neck "Who's next?" he asks. With an angry snarl the demons rush towards him.
**** Summers place ****
Buffy comes down the stairs after tucking Briena in. "She's out" she sighs flopping next to her mom
"I'm surprised you got home so early" Joyce observes
"Yeah well Brie was getting tired and so Xander brought us back. Spike's patrolling."
"Have you talked to Angel?"
"No" Buffy sighs shaking her head "I'm surprised that he didn't call before Brie went to bed. He'll call
when he gets in."
"DADDY"
Buffy looks up startled at the terrified scream. Running up the stairs they find Briena sobbing "Brie what's wrong?" Buffy asks pulling the little girl into her arms
"Daddy's hurt" she cries "They hurt Daddy" she sobs
Hearing her say that Angel's hurt Buffy hugs the little girl tighter "Angel's fine baby girl. He's fine" she looks at her mother "He's fine"
"I'm sure he is" Joyce smiles
Buffy rubs the little girl's back rocking her comfortingly trying to calm her cries. After a few minutes Buffy stands and begins to pace the floor "Brie calm down."
"Buffy want me to try?" Joyce asks holding out her hands
Buffy nods "Sure. I'll go see if I can get a hold of Angel. Maybe hearing his voice will calm her" she hands
the crying child to her mom.
Joyce walks the floor with the crying child "Brie its OK." she assures
Downstairs Buffy paces the floor with the phone "Come on Angel pick up" she mutters as the phone
rings
"Angel..." Cordelia begins
"Cordy its Buffy is Angel there?" Buffy demands interrupting the ex-cheerleader
"He's still out."
"Damn" Buffy swears "Did he take the cellphone?"
"Of course not. You know he hates that thing."
"When will he be back?" demands Buffy
"He should be back soon. What's wrong?"
"Tell him to call me as soon as he gets home" Buffy says
"Sure what's wrong?"
"Brie had a bad dream. She won't stop crying." Buffy answers
"Hey Slayer" Spike greets opening the front door
"I'm on the phone" Buffy snaps "Look just have him call me" Buffy hangs up as Joyce walks down the
stairs.
"What's wrong with cutie?" he asks
"She had a bad dream" Joyce answers handing Briena to Buffy
"Oh" Spike says
Buffy frowns walking the floor
"I tried everything I can think of" Joyce tells them
"She's used to Angel doing this" Buffy remarks then looks at Spike "That's it"
"What?" Joyce asks
"She can't calm down because she's not used to someone with a heartbeat comforting her." she looks at Spike hopefully "Spike?"
"Anything to stop her from crying" he agrees taking the little girl from Buffy
Briena sighs happily her head resting against a quiet chest "Want Daddy" she mumbles sleepily content to sleep in the arms of Spike
"See Slayer people like me" Spike chuckles
"She likes you because like Angel you don't have a heartbeat" Buffy reminds
"Hey" he protests
**** LA: An hour later ****
Cordelia looks up to find Angel stumbling into the apartment his clothes torn and bloody "What happened to you?" she demands standing she helps him into the room
Angel groans in pain "He was with some of his demons goons."
"You look like you'd been hit by a truck" Cordelia observes heading into the bathroom she returns with the first aid kit.
"Gee thanks" he says sarcastically groaning as he removes his shirt
"Buffy called" Cordelia tells him as she takes out the ace bandages she gasps at the sight of a wound inches from his heart "Angel that is just gross" she complains
Angel winces "Sorry that my almost deadly wound grosses you out"
"whatever" she rolls her eyes as she continues to patch him up
"What did Buffy want?" Angel asks
"Brie had a nightmare and Buffy thought talking to you would calm her down"
Hearing that his daughter had a nightmare he looks at Cordelia "Hand me the phone" he demands
Cordelia grabs the phone off the counter "Here now hold still" she instructs
Angel dials the familiar number listening to the other end ring "Come on pick up" he mutters
"Hello" Buffy asks breathlessly
"Hey" Angel greets "damn it Cordelia that hurt" he growls as Cordelia removes a splinter
"God you are such a baby its just a splinter"
"Next time warn me OK"
Buffy laughs lightly "Let me talk to Cordy" she requests
Reluctantly the injured vampire hands the phone to Cordelia
"Hey Buffy" Cordelia greets
"Hey. So how bad is it this time?" she asks
"Ehh. Not as bad as the time when Spike and the psycho tried that ritual" Cordelia replies "Except this
time I'm the one having to deal with the grumpy vampire"
"He's not very good at being bandaged up" Buffy agrees
"I'm not grumpy" Angel retorts
"You better talk to him" Cordelia remarks "Otherwise he will keep getting antsy as I patch him up." she hands the phone to Angel
"Hi" he greets again
"Hey you. Are you OK?" Buffy asks concerned
"Sure nothing some sleep won't take care of. How's Brie? Cordy told me she had a nightmare"
Buffy looks down at the little girl asleep beside her on the bed "She's asleep right now" she answers "it took a while but she went back to sleep"
"What happened?" Angel asks
"Mom and I were talking downstairs when we heard her scream. She kept saying you were hurt. She wouldn't stop crying no matter what we did."
"How'd you get her to go back to sleep?" Angel questions
"Spike did it."
"Spike? As in annoying Spike?" Angel demands
"I'm done" Cordelia announces
"Hold on a sec Buff." he requests "Thanks Cordy. Its late why don't you crash in Brie's room."
"Night then." Buffy hears Cordelia say to Angel
"I'm back" he announces
"Why is Cordy staying over?" she asks
Angel smiles faintly "Jealous?"
"Funny" Buffy snaps
"She sometimes stays over when she works late or when she watches Brie." he explains
"I'm surprised that either of you are still alive then."
"Why do you say that?" Angel asks
"You two are like the exact opposite in personality"
"So are you and I" he points out
"Yes but Cordelia is... is Cordelia."
"How did Spike get Brie to calm down?" Angel asks changing the subject
"Well I realized that she's used to hearing a faint heartbeat or none at all. So he was the only one with either of those qualifications. Spike took her and almost immediately she fell asleep."
Angel smiles faintly "She sometimes does that. So how was she otherwise?"
"Angel she was really good. We went to the mall and the park when we got home she was out like a light."
"Uh oh did she inherit your shopping obsession?" he asks teasingly
"Ha ha" Buffy laughs "Anyway Mom was the one who was excited about shopping. She kept finding all these cute clothes for Brie"
"Buff I hope you stopped her from buying Brie a bunch of stuff?" Angel asks "Brie has too many clothes as it is."
"I know. I kept Mom from buying out the clothing section."
"Why do I have a feeling that there is a but in this conversation?" Angel groans
"Well there is. See when we got to the toystore Mom saw this big stuffed monkey..."
"Buffy" he groans "Brie doesn't need anymore toys or stuffed animals" Angel remarks
"I know but we've got to placate my mother. After all Brie will most likely be her only grandchild" Buffy points out "so let her spoil Brie"
"All right" he agrees
"Thank you. Anyway the monkey is really cute he wears diapers and has a bottle" she tells him "Mom was enjoying the whole spoiling thing. Brie seemed to like it too"
"I don't doubt it" Angel chuckles
"She misses you though" Buffy tells him
"I miss her too." Angel sighs looking around "Things are too quiet without her around." he smiles picking up a small stuffed animal "Its odd. I mean we've only known about her for two weeks yet..."
"It seems like forever" she adds
"Yeah" he's silent "You better get some sleep" he tells her
"I know. See you tonight?"
"Yes I'll be there around 8. Give Brie a kiss for me"
"I will" Buffy promises
"Bye"
"Bye" Buffy echoes hanging up the phone she smiles at the little girl asleep beside her. Leaning down she kisses Briena's cheek "From your Daddy" she whispers laying beside the little girl "Goodnight my little angel"
**** Sunday Morning ****
"Buffy" Briena says shaking the sleeping blond beside her
Groaning Buffy opens her eyes "Brie" she yawns
"I wanna talk to Angel"
Buffy rolls over to look at the clock "Its too early babygirl he's still sleeping"
"Want to talk to Angel" Briena demands
Buffy looks into the sad brown eyes so much like her love's and knows she can't resist. "All right sweetie we'll call him." she reluctantly agrees sitting up she pulls the little girl onto her lap reaching for the phone. Dialling the number she listens as the other end rings "Brie baby you can't talk to him for long he needs his sleep"
Briena nods leaning against Buffy
Buffy smiles as she hears a familiar voice answer with a tired growl "What"
Buffy laughs "Still aren't a morning person I hear"
Angel groans "Buff I've only been asleep for an hour"
"Sorry baby but someone wanted to talk to you. Someone who woke me up" she says tickling the little girl on her lap
"Stop" Briena giggles
Angel laughs "All right just for her"
"Here" Buffy hands the phone to the laughing child
"Hi Angel" Briena greets
"Hi Brie. How are you sweetie?"
"I had a bad dream" she tells him
"I heard. What was it about?" he asks
"A bad bunch of demons hurt you" she replies
"I'm OK little one. Just a few scratches"
"OK"
"Anything else?"
"Nope" she answers
"Can I talk to Buffy sweetie"
"OK" Briena agrees handing the phone to Buffy "Wants to talk to you"
Buffy smiles taking the phone "Hey you better get back to sleep."
"I will." he promises "I'll see you tonight"
"Tonight" she agrees
"Give Brie a kiss for me"
"I will. Have a good sleep"
"bye"
"bye" she echoes hanging up the phone. She hugs the little girl kissing her head "Lets go get breakfast" Buffy suggests standing she picks Briena up
Briena nods
**** That night ****
"Brie no jumping on the bed" Buffy admonishes catching the little girl in mid jump
"Your supposed to be asleep young lady" Joyce says from the doorway
"Uh oh" Buffy says her eyes wide "We've been caught"
Briena laughs
"You think that's funny?" Buffy asks with a grin
Briena nods "Uh huh"
"Briena you should be sleeping" Joyce says taking the giggling child from Buffy
Briena shakes her head "I'm not tired." she insists smiling happily as she looks towards the window then door "I want down." she demands
"Say please" Buffy reminds
Briena squirms in Joyce's arms "I want down please" she requests
"All right" Joyce agrees putting the little girl down they watch as she races out of the room
"Angel's here" Buffy explains
"How do you know he's here?" Joyce asks
"I can feel him" Buffy answers leaving her mother watching her confused. Buffy watches as Briena flies down the stairs.
"Angel" Briena greets happily as she launches herself into his arms
Angel swings the little girl up into his arms "Hi Briena"
Briena wraps her arms around his neck "Hi"
Angel hugs her back kissing her head
"Hi Angel" Buffy greets coming down the stairs with Briena backpack and two other shopping bags "I see she's already calmed down" she observes
"Has she been acting up?" Angel asks
"She's been hyper" Joyce answers walking down the stairs
"She couldn't wait to see you" Buffy adds
"Missed Angel" Briena yawns laying her head on his shoulder she pulls out his cross from under his shirt
and fidgets with it
"Missed you too" Angel whispers
"Are we going home?" she asks tiredly
"Yeah little one. Why don't you say bye and thank you to Buffy and Joyce" he suggests
"Thank you" Briena says shyly
"Your welcome sweetheart" Joyce smiles
"Bye" she waves
"Angel can you drop me off at school?" Buffy asks
"Sure" Angel nods
"Thanks. I'll go grab my stuff" she heads back up the stairs
"Joyce thanks for watching her" Angel says picking up Briena's backpack
"It was fun" she smiles
Angel smiles back "If your ever in LA stop by."
"I will"
"Brie I need to put you down" Angel says
Briena reluctantly lets go of his neck. "OK"
Angel places her on the ground picking up the shopping bags. "Buffy are you ready? We don't have all night"
"Very funny" she scowls coming down the stairs with a backpack "I'll see you later Mom" Buffy says hugging her mother
"All right." Joyce hugs her back then smiles at Briena "Brie can I have a hug?"
Briena nods holding her arms up.
Joyce picks her up giving her a big hug then hands her over to Buffy "It was nice to meet you Briena"
Briena smiles laying her head on Buffy's shoulder "Bye"
Buffy carries the little girl out to the car. She places the little girl in the back seat then she gets into the front seat.
Angel smiles at the sight of his family in the car. Getting into the drivers side he starts the car. "So Buff what's the plan for this week?" Angel asks glancing at her
"Oh the normal... school, patrol, hanging out. You?"
"Beisdes work not much. I got a call from one of Brie's teachers and the kids are going on a field trip on Thursday to the zoo"
"The zoo?" Briena asks excitedly
"Yes the zoo." Angel confirms smiling at Buffy
"I like animals" Briena says "Angel can we get a dog?"
Angel groans remembering the last time he was around a dog "Sorry Brie we can't have a dog"
"Why?" Brie asks
"Angel all kids need pets"
"Buffy do you remember the little dog of Drusilla's... Sunshine?"
"Not really. Why did she name the dog Sunshine?"
Angel shrugs "I have no clue. I never did understand how her mind works"
"What happened to the dog?" Buffy asks
"Dru has a tendency to be absent minded. She forgot to feed the dog most of the time finally she turned it"
"What? A vampire dog?" Buffy asks surprised
Angel nods "That dog was annoyed Angelus so much that he staked it"
"Staked a vamped dog?" Buffy says with a laugh
"I know but that damn dog was annoying"
"I want a pet" Briena demands "Please?"
Angel groans "OK you can get a fish." he finally agrees pulling into the dorm parking lot where they hear loud music playing
"Where are we?" Briena asks looking around
"This is were I live" Buffy answers
"Why?" Briena asks
"I go to school here" Buffy smiles at Briena
"Oh" Briena yawns
Buffy opens the passenger side door "I'll talk to you later" she leans down kissing Briena's head. "Call me when you get home" she tells Angel
"I will" he nods
"Bye Briena" Buffy smiles
"Bye Buffy" Briena waves
**** Two hours later ****
Angel pulls the car into the parking garage turning off the engine he smiles at the sight of the sleeping child in the back seat. Gently he picks her up carrying the sleeping child into the apartment where he finds Cordelia sprawled on the couch with a magazine
"About time you got back" she complains
"Can you put her down?" he requests
"Sure" Cordelia sighs taking Briena from him carrying her into her bedroom
Angel goes back out to the car returning with the bags.
"Gee did Buffy buy out the mall?" Cordelia questions returning to the livingroom
"No Joyce did" Angel replies
"Well I'm outta here" Cordelia announces picking up her purse. "No one called. So I'll see you tomorrow"
"Thanks for staying Cordy" Angel remarks
Cordelia nods "Bye" she nods heading out the door
Angel smiles noticing Briena's Mr. Doggie picking up the stuffed animal he carries it into Briena's room. He puts the stuffed dog in the sleeping child's arms leaning down he brushes a light kiss across her forehead. "Sleep well little girl"
Author: Inquisitive1
Disclaimer: I own only Briena
Distribution: My site http://www.angelfire.com/tv/inqsitive1sfanfiction/index.html Fanfiction.net and numerous mailing lists.
Authors Note: I am limited in email access right now. So I am working on my stories and sending them out when I am able.
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Part 19
**** Next Morning @ 9 ****
"Briena Angel's on the phone" Buffy says softly waking the little girl
Briena sits up rubbing her eyes "I get to talk to Angel?" she asks
"Yep" Buffy grins handing her the phone
"Hi Angel" Briena greets happily
"Hi little one" Angel replies "Did you have a goodnights sleep?"
"I guess" Briena answers reluctantly
"Brie did you have a bad dream?" he asks concerned
"No" Briena answers
"Just couldn't sleep huh?" he asks
"Uh huh" she says
"What are you doing today?" Angel inquires
"I dunno"
"Brie can I talk to Angel?" Buffy asks
"OK. Bye Angel"
"Bye Brie" Angel replies "I'll talk to you later"
" 'kay" Briena hands the phone to Buffy
"Brie why don't you go down to the kitchen. Mom's making breakfast"
"Is Spike still up?" Briena asks
"He's in the livingroom" Buffy tells her
"Goody" Briena says happily racing out the door and down the stairs
Buffy chuckles "So what's your plan for today?"
"I'm going to sleep then I have to meet with Kate. You?"
"Mom wants to take Brie shopping. I have to talk to Riley. Come up with some sort of explanation to why
Briena is here"
"What are you going to tell him?"
"I haven't figured that out yet" she admits. She hears Angel sigh "OK spill what's bothering you?"
"You know me way too well" he chuckles
"So tell me" she insists
"Buffy Spike told me that Riley made Brie nervous. He made Doyle nervous too."
"He's not familiar to them or you. He's not a bad guy Angel"
"To you maybe but if he makes Doyle nervous then somethings wrong with him. Doyle likes everyone... well almost everyone"
"What are you saying?" she asks
"Buff I don't want Riley left alone with Brie... ever"
"Why?"
"Because somethings off about him. I can't explain but I feel it. So do Brie, Spike and Doyle."
"All right" Buffy agrees "I won't leave him alone with her"
Angel sighs with relief. "I've got to go. Give Brie a kiss for me."
"I will" Buffy promises
"I love you baby"
"Love you too Angel"
"I'll talk to you later"
"Good. Be careful tonight"
"You too"
"Bye" Buffy says
"Bye" Angel echoes hanging up the phone
Buffy hangs up the phone and heads down the stairs where she finds Briena on the couch with Spike watching cartoons. Buffy kisses the top of Briena's head "From Angel" she says
"Hey did peaches send me one too?" Spike smirks
"No but he sent you this" she smacks him on the head "And he sent you a stake but I'll save 'til Brie's not here"
Briena looks up at Buffy "No staking Spike. He's my friend" she reminds
Joyce enters the livingroom "Yes Buffy no staking Spike." Joyce holds her hand out to Briena "Come on Brie breakfast is ready" she leads Briena into the kitchen. "Up you go" she says lifting Briena onto the stool at the kitchen counter.
"Thank you" she grins
"Your welcome" Joyce grins back putting a plate infront of Briena "Do you like pancakes?"
"Uh huh" Briena nods "But like donuts more. Angel says I can't have them everyday" she scrunches her nose up
Buffy laughs "He's right munchkin."
Joyce puts a plate infront of Buffy "Hon you are the last person who should lecture on eating habits"
"Hey I resent that. I eat healthy... when I can" Buffy protests taking a bite of her pancakes.
**** An hour later ****
"Brie sweetie are you ready?" Buffy asks picking up the little girl
"Uh huh" she nods with a grin
"Good" she carries the little girl down the stairs "Spike we're heading out. Try not to burn the house down" she teases
Spike grunts in response
"Bye Spike" Briena waves
"Bye cutie have fun" he waves
Once in the car Joyce asks "Ready?"
"I think we are" Buffy nods "Briena what do you think?"
"Yep" she agrees happily "Can we go to the pet store? Cordy takes me and sometimes they let me play with the baby animals"
"Sure we can" Joyce answers grinning at Buffy
**** 4 hours later ****
"Today wore her out" Buffy chuckles carrying the fast asleep Briena into the house.
"Its been a long day" Joyce agrees
"It has." Buffy nods carrying Briena up her bedroom. Laying Briena down Buffy removes her shoes and tucks her in with Mr. Doggie. She returns to the livingroom where she joins her mother on the couch. "She's out like a light"
"She's interested in everything."
"Angel told me that she absorbs information like a sponge. He's teaching her how to read right now."
"Kids learn quick"
"When Angel researches Briena asks him questions then if Cordelia asks him a question on a demon or something Brie tells her the answer."
"Wait a minute? Angel is teaching a 4 year old about demons?" Joyce asks concerned "It'll cause nightmares"
"We both want Brie to know about demons so she's prepared so she won't get scared when she sees them. We both wish that she never had to know about the baddies... but she has to its part of who she is... what she is."
"Are you patrolling tonight?" Joyce asks
"I guess. I have to go see Giles about some stuff"
"I have to go to the gallery this evening."
"I'll take Brie with me to Giles. He can watch her while Spike and I patrol."
"Are you sure? I can take her with me" Joyce offers
"No its fine. Just get your work done in peace" she kisses her Mom's cheek "I'm going to get some
studying done"
"All right honey"
**** 2 hours later ****
Buffy closes her book as she hears Briena walk down the stairs. "Did you have a good nap?"
Briena nods rubbing her eyes tiredly "Can I watch cartoons?"
"Its OK with me you need to ask Spike. He's watching TV right now"
" 'kay" Briena goes over to the couch "Spike?"
"Yeah pet?" Spike asks looking into the familiar brown eyes of his sire
"Can we watch cartoons?"
Spike grins "If I say no are you going to bite me?"
Briena shakes her head solemnly "Angel said no biting. Its not nice"
"That's right" Buffy says "Isn't it Spike?" she asks glaring at him daring him to say no
Spike rolls his eyes "Sure Slayer" he grins at Briena "Come on pet lets watch some cartoons." he picks her up placing her on the couch beside him.
**** Angel's apartment ****
"Angel" Cordelia calls coming down the stairs from the office "Angel" she calls louder
"What Cordy?" Angel answers exiting the bathroom wearing only his pants
Cordelia holds out a grocery bag her nose scrunched up in disgust "Here"
"Thanks" he says walking towards the kitchen he takes the bag from her.
Cordelia looks around the livingroom "Angel why haven't you put away Briena's toys?"
Angel rolls his eyes "Brie needs to take responsibility for her own things." he pours the blood into a mug putting it in the microwave "Did you find out anything else about the case?"
"Well the guy that was killed was a client of get this... Wolfram and Hart" she says
"Why am I not surprised" Angel wonders
"Anyway the guy your looking for hangs out around the abandoned factories. This guy is totally scuzzy, His clothes don't even match"
"Cordy I could care less if he has fashion sense" Angel remarks rolling his eyes "Just tell me what I need to know"
"All right" she sighs "He owes major bucks. He hangs out with demons. What's to know?"
Angel shakes his head "I'm going to go finish getting dressed. I'll be gone for a few hours."
"Sure. What do I tell Buffy if she calls?"
"Tell her I'll call when I get back." he answers heading into his room he pulls on his T-shirt and boots.
"What about Kate? What should I tell her?"
"That I'll call her when I get him." Angel replies opening the weapons cabinet. He grabs a couple knives and stakes hiding them in his clothes. Pulling on his jacket he grabs his keys
"Are you taking the cell?" Cordelia asks
Angel shakes his head "No I hate that thing"
"Angel having a cell phone makes it easier for me to get a hold of you in case of an emergency"
"I know." he groans "but I don't need to worry that the phone is going to ring in the middle of following this guy. I'll call every once in a while to check in."
"Good. Enjoy" she waves off
Angel heads out to his car
**** Summers house ****
"Are you two ready yet?" Buffy hears Spike yell from the bottom of the stairs his voice impatient
"Spike no need to wig. We'll be down in a minute." Buffy yells back
"Buffy where we going?" Briena questions
"We're going to see Giles. He's going to watch you while Spike and I patrol" Buffy answers helping Briena into her jacket
"What if Angel calls?" asks Briena
"Angel knows that if he can't reach us here then to call Giles" she assures picking up Briena and her backpack.
"Mr Doggie" Briena reminds her voice frantic
"All right" Buffy remembers grabbing the beloved stuffed dog "Here baby girl" she grins giving Briena her dog
"Thank you" Briena says kissing Buffy's cheek
"Your welcome" she smiles carrying the little girl downstairs
"Finally" Spike snaps striding out the door.
Buffy pulls the door closed behind her locking it. "Did you at least clean up the backseat Spike?" she asks as she nears the car.
"There's nothing back there that can hurt her." Spike replies
"There better not be." Buffy says moving the seat forward she buckles Briena up then gets in. As she buckles herself in Spike peels out of the driveway "Damn it Spike" she yells smacking his arm "Don't drive so fast there's a kid in the backseat"
"Relax I'm a safe driver"
"Who just happens to drive fast" Buffy mutters nervously "Brie you OK?"
Briena laughs "He drives like Cordy."
"Yeah but she doesn't have a death wish" she remarks
"Hey I got you here safe didn't I?" Spike asks pulling to a stop
"Barely" Buffy grumbles opening the door she moves the seat unbuckling Briena she picks her up. "Baby
girl you are getting heavy"
"Am not" she replies putting her arms around Buffy's neck.
Buffy follows Spike into the apartment where they find the others waiting. "Hi guys" she greets
"Oh hello" Giles says distractedly
"Hi Briena" Willow greets softly
Briena watches the redhead with interest seeing the compassion and kindness she smiles "Hi"
"Briena this is Willow, Giles, Xander, Anya, Oz and Tara" she gestures to each person
Briena smiles at them liking them all even Anya. "Hi" she says shyly
Buffy puts Briena on the couch beside Spike "Giles anything new?" she asks turning to her ex-Watcher.
"Um nothing much. Why don't you and Spike go out and see why everything is so quiet. Maybe check with Riley see if the Initiative has upped their captures" Giles suggests scanning the bookcase
Checking to see if Briena is paying attention she turns to Giles "Can you keep an eye on Briena?"
"Uh Buffy I know nothing about little kids" Giles protests
"I'll keep an eye on her" Willow offers joining them
"Thanks Will" Buffy says giving her a hug. "Look there's something else..." she checks on Briena seeing that she is being entertained by Xander turns back. "If Riley comes over don't leave her alone with him."
"why not?" Willow asks curious
"Angel doesn't trust Riley to be alone with her." Buffy explains
"Uh sure" Giles agrees
Willow nods
"Thanks" Buffy smiles turning she calls "Spike"
"What pet?"
"Come on lets get this over" she walks over to the couch "Brie Giles and Willow are going to watch you. OK?"
" 'kay." Briena nods
"We'll be back in a little while 'kay" she kisses her head "Be good"
"I will" Briena grins "Bye Spike"
"Bye cutie" Spike replies
Buffy follows Spike to the door "There's a sketchbook and pencils in the backpack alone with a couple
books and her pajamas. Oh yeah if Angel calls tell him I'll call him back"
"Right" Giles nods at the closing door
Briena looks at Willow "Can I draw?"
"Sure" Willow grins opening the backpack she hands the little girl her sketchbook and pencils "Here you
go"
"Thank you" Briena smiles brightly
"Your welcome" Willow smiles back
Part 20
****An hour later- LA: Warehouse district ****
"Who are you?" a short skinny guy wearing a cheap suit and cowboy boots demands
"Why are you following me?"
Angel looks the guy over "Not sure. Seeing if you're as dangerous as they say"
"Oh I am" the guy says his voice deadly "Guys" he calls
Angel turns to find himself being surrounded by a group of heavily armed demons "Looks like you think I'm dangerous"
"Oh I know you are Angelus" a demon hisses "I know the stories of the soulled vampire. That you betrayed your own with a Slayer" he spits out in disgust.
"I am soulled. I do love a Slayer. But betraying my own? They aren't my own" Angel growls his face changing "And the names Angel" he reminds grabbing the nearest demon he snaps its neck "Who's next?" he asks. With an angry snarl the demons rush towards him.
**** Summers place ****
Buffy comes down the stairs after tucking Briena in. "She's out" she sighs flopping next to her mom
"I'm surprised you got home so early" Joyce observes
"Yeah well Brie was getting tired and so Xander brought us back. Spike's patrolling."
"Have you talked to Angel?"
"No" Buffy sighs shaking her head "I'm surprised that he didn't call before Brie went to bed. He'll call
when he gets in."
"DADDY"
Buffy looks up startled at the terrified scream. Running up the stairs they find Briena sobbing "Brie what's wrong?" Buffy asks pulling the little girl into her arms
"Daddy's hurt" she cries "They hurt Daddy" she sobs
Hearing her say that Angel's hurt Buffy hugs the little girl tighter "Angel's fine baby girl. He's fine" she looks at her mother "He's fine"
"I'm sure he is" Joyce smiles
Buffy rubs the little girl's back rocking her comfortingly trying to calm her cries. After a few minutes Buffy stands and begins to pace the floor "Brie calm down."
"Buffy want me to try?" Joyce asks holding out her hands
Buffy nods "Sure. I'll go see if I can get a hold of Angel. Maybe hearing his voice will calm her" she hands
the crying child to her mom.
Joyce walks the floor with the crying child "Brie its OK." she assures
Downstairs Buffy paces the floor with the phone "Come on Angel pick up" she mutters as the phone
rings
"Angel..." Cordelia begins
"Cordy its Buffy is Angel there?" Buffy demands interrupting the ex-cheerleader
"He's still out."
"Damn" Buffy swears "Did he take the cellphone?"
"Of course not. You know he hates that thing."
"When will he be back?" demands Buffy
"He should be back soon. What's wrong?"
"Tell him to call me as soon as he gets home" Buffy says
"Sure what's wrong?"
"Brie had a bad dream. She won't stop crying." Buffy answers
"Hey Slayer" Spike greets opening the front door
"I'm on the phone" Buffy snaps "Look just have him call me" Buffy hangs up as Joyce walks down the
stairs.
"What's wrong with cutie?" he asks
"She had a bad dream" Joyce answers handing Briena to Buffy
"Oh" Spike says
Buffy frowns walking the floor
"I tried everything I can think of" Joyce tells them
"She's used to Angel doing this" Buffy remarks then looks at Spike "That's it"
"What?" Joyce asks
"She can't calm down because she's not used to someone with a heartbeat comforting her." she looks at Spike hopefully "Spike?"
"Anything to stop her from crying" he agrees taking the little girl from Buffy
Briena sighs happily her head resting against a quiet chest "Want Daddy" she mumbles sleepily content to sleep in the arms of Spike
"See Slayer people like me" Spike chuckles
"She likes you because like Angel you don't have a heartbeat" Buffy reminds
"Hey" he protests
**** LA: An hour later ****
Cordelia looks up to find Angel stumbling into the apartment his clothes torn and bloody "What happened to you?" she demands standing she helps him into the room
Angel groans in pain "He was with some of his demons goons."
"You look like you'd been hit by a truck" Cordelia observes heading into the bathroom she returns with the first aid kit.
"Gee thanks" he says sarcastically groaning as he removes his shirt
"Buffy called" Cordelia tells him as she takes out the ace bandages she gasps at the sight of a wound inches from his heart "Angel that is just gross" she complains
Angel winces "Sorry that my almost deadly wound grosses you out"
"whatever" she rolls her eyes as she continues to patch him up
"What did Buffy want?" Angel asks
"Brie had a nightmare and Buffy thought talking to you would calm her down"
Hearing that his daughter had a nightmare he looks at Cordelia "Hand me the phone" he demands
Cordelia grabs the phone off the counter "Here now hold still" she instructs
Angel dials the familiar number listening to the other end ring "Come on pick up" he mutters
"Hello" Buffy asks breathlessly
"Hey" Angel greets "damn it Cordelia that hurt" he growls as Cordelia removes a splinter
"God you are such a baby its just a splinter"
"Next time warn me OK"
Buffy laughs lightly "Let me talk to Cordy" she requests
Reluctantly the injured vampire hands the phone to Cordelia
"Hey Buffy" Cordelia greets
"Hey. So how bad is it this time?" she asks
"Ehh. Not as bad as the time when Spike and the psycho tried that ritual" Cordelia replies "Except this
time I'm the one having to deal with the grumpy vampire"
"He's not very good at being bandaged up" Buffy agrees
"I'm not grumpy" Angel retorts
"You better talk to him" Cordelia remarks "Otherwise he will keep getting antsy as I patch him up." she hands the phone to Angel
"Hi" he greets again
"Hey you. Are you OK?" Buffy asks concerned
"Sure nothing some sleep won't take care of. How's Brie? Cordy told me she had a nightmare"
Buffy looks down at the little girl asleep beside her on the bed "She's asleep right now" she answers "it took a while but she went back to sleep"
"What happened?" Angel asks
"Mom and I were talking downstairs when we heard her scream. She kept saying you were hurt. She wouldn't stop crying no matter what we did."
"How'd you get her to go back to sleep?" Angel questions
"Spike did it."
"Spike? As in annoying Spike?" Angel demands
"I'm done" Cordelia announces
"Hold on a sec Buff." he requests "Thanks Cordy. Its late why don't you crash in Brie's room."
"Night then." Buffy hears Cordelia say to Angel
"I'm back" he announces
"Why is Cordy staying over?" she asks
Angel smiles faintly "Jealous?"
"Funny" Buffy snaps
"She sometimes stays over when she works late or when she watches Brie." he explains
"I'm surprised that either of you are still alive then."
"Why do you say that?" Angel asks
"You two are like the exact opposite in personality"
"So are you and I" he points out
"Yes but Cordelia is... is Cordelia."
"How did Spike get Brie to calm down?" Angel asks changing the subject
"Well I realized that she's used to hearing a faint heartbeat or none at all. So he was the only one with either of those qualifications. Spike took her and almost immediately she fell asleep."
Angel smiles faintly "She sometimes does that. So how was she otherwise?"
"Angel she was really good. We went to the mall and the park when we got home she was out like a light."
"Uh oh did she inherit your shopping obsession?" he asks teasingly
"Ha ha" Buffy laughs "Anyway Mom was the one who was excited about shopping. She kept finding all these cute clothes for Brie"
"Buff I hope you stopped her from buying Brie a bunch of stuff?" Angel asks "Brie has too many clothes as it is."
"I know. I kept Mom from buying out the clothing section."
"Why do I have a feeling that there is a but in this conversation?" Angel groans
"Well there is. See when we got to the toystore Mom saw this big stuffed monkey..."
"Buffy" he groans "Brie doesn't need anymore toys or stuffed animals" Angel remarks
"I know but we've got to placate my mother. After all Brie will most likely be her only grandchild" Buffy points out "so let her spoil Brie"
"All right" he agrees
"Thank you. Anyway the monkey is really cute he wears diapers and has a bottle" she tells him "Mom was enjoying the whole spoiling thing. Brie seemed to like it too"
"I don't doubt it" Angel chuckles
"She misses you though" Buffy tells him
"I miss her too." Angel sighs looking around "Things are too quiet without her around." he smiles picking up a small stuffed animal "Its odd. I mean we've only known about her for two weeks yet..."
"It seems like forever" she adds
"Yeah" he's silent "You better get some sleep" he tells her
"I know. See you tonight?"
"Yes I'll be there around 8. Give Brie a kiss for me"
"I will" Buffy promises
"Bye"
"Bye" Buffy echoes hanging up the phone she smiles at the little girl asleep beside her. Leaning down she kisses Briena's cheek "From your Daddy" she whispers laying beside the little girl "Goodnight my little angel"
**** Sunday Morning ****
"Buffy" Briena says shaking the sleeping blond beside her
Groaning Buffy opens her eyes "Brie" she yawns
"I wanna talk to Angel"
Buffy rolls over to look at the clock "Its too early babygirl he's still sleeping"
"Want to talk to Angel" Briena demands
Buffy looks into the sad brown eyes so much like her love's and knows she can't resist. "All right sweetie we'll call him." she reluctantly agrees sitting up she pulls the little girl onto her lap reaching for the phone. Dialling the number she listens as the other end rings "Brie baby you can't talk to him for long he needs his sleep"
Briena nods leaning against Buffy
Buffy smiles as she hears a familiar voice answer with a tired growl "What"
Buffy laughs "Still aren't a morning person I hear"
Angel groans "Buff I've only been asleep for an hour"
"Sorry baby but someone wanted to talk to you. Someone who woke me up" she says tickling the little girl on her lap
"Stop" Briena giggles
Angel laughs "All right just for her"
"Here" Buffy hands the phone to the laughing child
"Hi Angel" Briena greets
"Hi Brie. How are you sweetie?"
"I had a bad dream" she tells him
"I heard. What was it about?" he asks
"A bad bunch of demons hurt you" she replies
"I'm OK little one. Just a few scratches"
"OK"
"Anything else?"
"Nope" she answers
"Can I talk to Buffy sweetie"
"OK" Briena agrees handing the phone to Buffy "Wants to talk to you"
Buffy smiles taking the phone "Hey you better get back to sleep."
"I will." he promises "I'll see you tonight"
"Tonight" she agrees
"Give Brie a kiss for me"
"I will. Have a good sleep"
"bye"
"bye" she echoes hanging up the phone. She hugs the little girl kissing her head "Lets go get breakfast" Buffy suggests standing she picks Briena up
Briena nods
**** That night ****
"Brie no jumping on the bed" Buffy admonishes catching the little girl in mid jump
"Your supposed to be asleep young lady" Joyce says from the doorway
"Uh oh" Buffy says her eyes wide "We've been caught"
Briena laughs
"You think that's funny?" Buffy asks with a grin
Briena nods "Uh huh"
"Briena you should be sleeping" Joyce says taking the giggling child from Buffy
Briena shakes her head "I'm not tired." she insists smiling happily as she looks towards the window then door "I want down." she demands
"Say please" Buffy reminds
Briena squirms in Joyce's arms "I want down please" she requests
"All right" Joyce agrees putting the little girl down they watch as she races out of the room
"Angel's here" Buffy explains
"How do you know he's here?" Joyce asks
"I can feel him" Buffy answers leaving her mother watching her confused. Buffy watches as Briena flies down the stairs.
"Angel" Briena greets happily as she launches herself into his arms
Angel swings the little girl up into his arms "Hi Briena"
Briena wraps her arms around his neck "Hi"
Angel hugs her back kissing her head
"Hi Angel" Buffy greets coming down the stairs with Briena backpack and two other shopping bags "I see she's already calmed down" she observes
"Has she been acting up?" Angel asks
"She's been hyper" Joyce answers walking down the stairs
"She couldn't wait to see you" Buffy adds
"Missed Angel" Briena yawns laying her head on his shoulder she pulls out his cross from under his shirt
and fidgets with it
"Missed you too" Angel whispers
"Are we going home?" she asks tiredly
"Yeah little one. Why don't you say bye and thank you to Buffy and Joyce" he suggests
"Thank you" Briena says shyly
"Your welcome sweetheart" Joyce smiles
"Bye" she waves
"Angel can you drop me off at school?" Buffy asks
"Sure" Angel nods
"Thanks. I'll go grab my stuff" she heads back up the stairs
"Joyce thanks for watching her" Angel says picking up Briena's backpack
"It was fun" she smiles
Angel smiles back "If your ever in LA stop by."
"I will"
"Brie I need to put you down" Angel says
Briena reluctantly lets go of his neck. "OK"
Angel places her on the ground picking up the shopping bags. "Buffy are you ready? We don't have all night"
"Very funny" she scowls coming down the stairs with a backpack "I'll see you later Mom" Buffy says hugging her mother
"All right." Joyce hugs her back then smiles at Briena "Brie can I have a hug?"
Briena nods holding her arms up.
Joyce picks her up giving her a big hug then hands her over to Buffy "It was nice to meet you Briena"
Briena smiles laying her head on Buffy's shoulder "Bye"
Buffy carries the little girl out to the car. She places the little girl in the back seat then she gets into the front seat.
Angel smiles at the sight of his family in the car. Getting into the drivers side he starts the car. "So Buff what's the plan for this week?" Angel asks glancing at her
"Oh the normal... school, patrol, hanging out. You?"
"Beisdes work not much. I got a call from one of Brie's teachers and the kids are going on a field trip on Thursday to the zoo"
"The zoo?" Briena asks excitedly
"Yes the zoo." Angel confirms smiling at Buffy
"I like animals" Briena says "Angel can we get a dog?"
Angel groans remembering the last time he was around a dog "Sorry Brie we can't have a dog"
"Why?" Brie asks
"Angel all kids need pets"
"Buffy do you remember the little dog of Drusilla's... Sunshine?"
"Not really. Why did she name the dog Sunshine?"
Angel shrugs "I have no clue. I never did understand how her mind works"
"What happened to the dog?" Buffy asks
"Dru has a tendency to be absent minded. She forgot to feed the dog most of the time finally she turned it"
"What? A vampire dog?" Buffy asks surprised
Angel nods "That dog was annoyed Angelus so much that he staked it"
"Staked a vamped dog?" Buffy says with a laugh
"I know but that damn dog was annoying"
"I want a pet" Briena demands "Please?"
Angel groans "OK you can get a fish." he finally agrees pulling into the dorm parking lot where they hear loud music playing
"Where are we?" Briena asks looking around
"This is were I live" Buffy answers
"Why?" Briena asks
"I go to school here" Buffy smiles at Briena
"Oh" Briena yawns
Buffy opens the passenger side door "I'll talk to you later" she leans down kissing Briena's head. "Call me when you get home" she tells Angel
"I will" he nods
"Bye Briena" Buffy smiles
"Bye Buffy" Briena waves
**** Two hours later ****
Angel pulls the car into the parking garage turning off the engine he smiles at the sight of the sleeping child in the back seat. Gently he picks her up carrying the sleeping child into the apartment where he finds Cordelia sprawled on the couch with a magazine
"About time you got back" she complains
"Can you put her down?" he requests
"Sure" Cordelia sighs taking Briena from him carrying her into her bedroom
Angel goes back out to the car returning with the bags.
"Gee did Buffy buy out the mall?" Cordelia questions returning to the livingroom
"No Joyce did" Angel replies
"Well I'm outta here" Cordelia announces picking up her purse. "No one called. So I'll see you tomorrow"
"Thanks for staying Cordy" Angel remarks
Cordelia nods "Bye" she nods heading out the door
Angel smiles noticing Briena's Mr. Doggie picking up the stuffed animal he carries it into Briena's room. He puts the stuffed dog in the sleeping child's arms leaning down he brushes a light kiss across her forehead. "Sleep well little girl"