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 21
**** Next Morning ****
Briena awakens to find herself in her own bed smiling she hops out of bed with Mr. Doggie under her arm she goes into the livingroom where she finds the shopping bags. Opening one of the bags she takes out a book of animals and carries it into Angel's bedroom. Carefully she crawls into the bed beside the sleeping vampire.
"Shh Mr. Doggie Angel's sleeping" she whispers to the stuffed dog.
Unknown to her Angel had awoken when she had gotten out of bed. Pretending to be asleep the vampire listens to Briena as she talks to the stuffed animal.
"That's an aardvark. They eat ants." she whispers turning the page "That's a bear... they eat plants, fish, bugs, and on cartoons honey. Thats a cat." the page turns "dog. I like dogs but Angel said we can't have one. Elephant. He's got a funny nose called a trunk." turns the page "That's a fish. Spike calls Riley Fishboy. I don't like him he's bad"
Hearing that Angel props his head up on his hand. "Briena its not nice to call Riley Fishboy"
Briena looks at him her eyes wide "But Spike calls him that"
"Briena what Spike does isn't always good" he reminds
Briena scrunches her nose up "I don't like him Angel"
"I know baby." he reaches out tapping her nose with his forefinger "but still its not nice to call people names. No matter how much you dislike them"
"OK Angel"
"Good" Angel leans his back against the headboard. "Brie baby why do you say Riley is bad?"
"I dunno" she shrugs "He feels bad" she replies
"Why does he feel bad?"
Briena looks at the stuffed dog then at Angel her eyes sad "He hurts them. He thinks they're all bad. He thinks Spike's bad. He thinks Daddy's bad." she sniffles tearfully "He thinks I'm bad too."
"Oh sweetie you aren't bad" Angel pulls her onto his lap. "He just fears what he doesn't understand."
"He makes my tummy and head hurt" she tells him
"I promise I won't let him make your head or tummy hurt ever again"
" 'kay" Brie sighs happily
"Now how about we read more of your book" Angel suggests picking up the disgarded book
"OK" Briena agrees
**** Thursday Afternoon ****
"Brie have fun at the zoo" Angel tells the little girl
"I will" she smiles throwing her arms around his neck she kisses his cheek "Bye"
"Cordy keep an eye on her" Angel orders the brunette
"I don't see why I have to go" Cordelia whines
"Because if Doyle has a vision how is he going to explain it" Angel asks
"Oh fine. Come on Briena" Cordelia takes the little girl's hand
"Bye Angel. Bye Doyle" Briena waves as they walk out of the office
"So think she's gonna last?" Doyle questions
"Who Cordy?"
"Yea"
"She'll be fine"
"Lets hope she is. Otherwise she'll bitch about it for a while"
**** Later that afternoon ****
"Angel come and get your kid" Cordelia calls entering the apartment
Angel walks into the kitchen to find Cordelia carrying the sleeping child. Carefully he takes Briena from her arms. "How was it?" he asks taking the child into her room
"Fine" Cordelia answers flopping on the couch "Those kids are terrors."
"Was Brie good?" Angel asks joining her
"She and two other kids were the only ones that behaved"
"Thanks for going with her."
Cordelia stands "Sure. I'll see you tomorrow"
Angel sits at his desk and starts to do some reading after a while he looks up to see Briena walking out of her room rubbing her eyes
"Angel" she says sleepily
"Hey sweetie" Angel smiles
"I'm hungry" she says
"What do you want to eat?" he asks
"Can I have grilled cheese?" she requests
"Sure Brie baby" he stands going into the kitchen. Briena follows climbing onto her chair she watches as Angel makes her sandwich. "Brie did you have fun today?" he asks
"Uh huh" she nods "I saw giraffees, elephants, monkeys, bears, and big kitties." Angel listens as she tells him all she saw occasionally asking her questions about the animals.
Later that night Angel is tucking her into bed "I'm glad you had fun today baby" he smiles leaning close "Did you like seeing all those animals?"
Briena smiles sadly "I woulda had more fun if you had been able to come too Daddy"
"I wish I had been able to come."
"Someday we'll be able to" Briena yawns "mommy will come too" she closes her eyes
"One day" Angel muses "Night babygirl" he kisses her forehead
"Night Daddy" she sighs
Angel sits there listening to the little girl fall asleep "I love you babygirl"
**** Next Morning ****
"Angel" Briena says throwing herself on the bed beside him "Angel wake up" she shakes him
Angel opens his eyes smiling at the little girl
"You awake Angel?" she demands
"Yes"
Briena grins "Is Buffy coming this weekend?"
"No little one she isn't"
Briena frowns "Do I get to go stay with Buffy?"
"No my girl" he replies tucking a strand of hair behind her ear "She has to study this weekend."
"Oh"
"You'll see her next weekend. I promise"
"Is Spike coming to visit this weekend?" Briena asks hopefully
"I don't know little one. He tends to show up when he wants"
"Okay"
"But Molly called and asked me if you could go play with Vincent tomorrow afternoon" Angel tells her
"I like playing with Vincent. He's almost as fun to play with as Spike"
Angel smiles "Come on Brie lets go get you some breakfast"
Part 22
**** Saturday Afternoon ****
Hearing a knock at the door Angel calls "Briena Molly and Vincent are here" he opens the door "Come on in" he invites
"Is she ready to go?" Molly asks
"I think" Angel answers just as Briena races into the kitchen "Briena did you put away your toys?"
Briena fidgets looking at the floor
Angel shakes his head "Move it. Finish cleaning up" he points to the livingroom
Briena sighs trudging into livingroom
"Do you want anything to drink?" Angel asks going to the fridge
"No thanks" Molly shakes her head
"Mommy can I go help Briena?" Vincent asks
"Sure" Molly nods watching as her son races out of the kitchen. She sits down at the table with a sigh
Angel sits across from her "How's school going?"
Molly sighs "Not good. Things have been a little hectic."
"If you need someone to watch Vincent he can spend the day here." he offers
"I may take you up on that" Molly grins
"Its fine with me. You've done a lot for us... especially Brie"
"She's a sweet kid. She and Vincent get along great"
"Done" Briena announces reentering the kitchen Vincent following
Angel smiles crouching before her "Did you put away your toys?"
"Yep"
"Did you put away your books?"
"Uh huh" she nods
"What about your stuffed animals?"
"I put them away"
"Dirty clothes?"
"In laundry basket" she answers with a grin
"Brush your teeth?" Angel asks
"Yep" she tells him
Angel smiles back "Well then give me a hug and your done"
Briena throws her arms around his neck "Bye" she says kissing his cheek
"Have fun and be good for Molly"
" 'kay" she nods
Angel stands "Thanks again Molly"
"No problem" the teen smiles "You two ready?" she asks the two kids
"Yes" they answer happily
"Bye Angel" Briena waves
"Bye Angel" Vincent echoes
"I'll have her back by dinner." Molly promises following the two out the door
"We'll be in the office" Angel informs her watching as they leave. Locking the door after they leave he takes the elevator up to the office.
"Hey" Cordelia greets as he enters taking a seat at his desk. "So where's Brie?"
"Molly came to pick her up for the afternoon" Angel answers opening the file cabinet
"You know I think those two have a little crush on each other" Cordelia chuckles
"She's too young to have a crush" Angel protests
Cordelia rolls her eyes "Angel your never too young or in some cases too old to have a crush."
Angel groans "I don't want to think about that" he heads into his office Cordelia following close behind
"Oh I get it" Cordelia says sitting down
"Get what?" Angel asks distractedly
"You don't want her to grow up" Cordelia remarks "You want her to be a little girl forever"
Angel looks up at her "I guess I do." he leans back in his chair
"Angel she's going to get older there's nothing you can do about it." she frowns "other than the whole vampire thing."
"Cordelia" he growls
"All right all right" she holds her hands up in the air "I'll get to work"
**** A few hours later ****
Joyce opens the outer office door to find the dark haired ex-Cheerleader sitting at the desk.
Cordelia looks up "Mrs Summers" she says surprised
"Cordelia" Joyce nods "Is Angel in?"
"Uh yeah he's on the phone. I'll just go let him know your here. Have a seat" she gestures to the couch. Cordelia knocks on the door entering the office
"Kate can you hold on for a sec?" he asks "Thanks" he covers the receiver "What?"
"Mrs. Summers is here to see you" she tells him
Angel frowns "Tell her I'll be a minute"
Cordelia nods closing the office door behind her "He'll be a minute"
Joyce nods
"Kate I need to call you back. Buffy's mom just came into town"
"Is everything OK?" Kate asks
"Yeah. I'll talk to you later" he says hanging up. He stands going to the door "Hello Joyce" he greets
"Hi Angel. I'm in town for a few days. I thought I'd stop by and see how things are going" Joyce stands
"come on in." he invites "Brie's not here right now. She went to over to a friends house. She should be back in a while"
Joyce enters his office looking around "How's she doing in daycare?" she asks sitting down
"She's having fun. Its taking her a while to make friends other than Vincent but she's doing better. She's not as shy as she was at first."
Joyce smiles
"So what are you doing in LA?" Angel asks
"There's a couple art shows, an estate sale, and an auction going on. I'm here until Monday. Then I have to head to San Diego for another auction and estate sale."
Angel frowns "Are you here for the auction at the Granger Hotel?"
"Uh yes I am. Why?"
"I just heard about it" he cocks his head towards the door
The outer office door opens "Daddy" Briena calls excitedly
Angel goes to the doorway only to have Briena throw herself into his arms "Hey you where's Molly?"
"You know she's like a rabbit" Molly laughs entering the office carrying Vincent
Angel chuckles "That she is. So was she good?"
"They both behaved" Molly tells him
Angel nods "Good." he senses Joyce behind him "Joyce this is Molly and that is Vincent"
"Hello" Joyce smiles
"Hi nice to meet you" Molly smiles back
"Hi" Briena smiles at Joyce
"Mommy" Vincent whines "I'm sleepy"
"I know you are." Molly grins at Briena "I'll see you later"
" 'kay" Briena smiles back "Bye"
"Bye 'riena" Vincent yawns
"Thanks for watching her" Angel says to Molly
"No problem" Molly says carrying her son out the door
Angel turns to Joyce "Joyce would you like to stay for dinner?"
"Stay" Briena requests hopefully
Seeing the look on Briena's face Joyce nods "Sure"
"Yeah" Briena says happily
The adults laugh at the little girl's enthusiam "Cordy?" Angel asks
"Sorry I have plans" the ex-Cheerleader replies "Remember Doyle was supposed to watch Briena tonight while you patrol cause I have a date"
"Oh yeah" Angel remembers "Have a good time"
"I'll lock up" Cordelia says waving them to the elevator
"Bye Cordy" Briena waves over the dark haired vampires shoulder
"It was good to see you Cordelia" Joyce smiles
"Same"
Once downstairs Angel puts Briena down on the floor "Brie why don't you go show Joyce your room" he suggests
Briena nods going to Joyce she tugs on her hand "Come on"
Laughing Joyce follows the little girl into her room. Angel smiles happy that his daughter and Joyce have taken to each other.
**** Two hours later ****
"Let me help you clean up" Joyce offers standing
"I've got it." Angel replies noticing Briena is trying to sneak out of the kitchen "I don't think so Brie"
Briena stops "I want to go color" she pouts
Angel looks at her "Put your dishes in the sink and then you can go color"
"Oh all right" she grumbles carrying her dishes to the sink "Now?"
"Go ahead" he nods "Want some tea?" he asks Joyce
"Sounds good" she says
Angel puts the teakettle on then faces Joyce "I was wondering if you could keep an eye on Brie for a few hours"
"Sure. I'd love to"
"What are you looking to acquire at the auctions?" Angel asks
"I'm not really sure. I'm mostly just browsing"
"I've heard that the auction at the Granger Hotel is going to have some pretty good pieces."
Briena enters the kitchen carrying her paper and pencils joining them at the table
Hearing the teakettle whistle Angel stands going to the cabinet he takes out the mugs and teabags. "So how's the gallery doing?"
"Pretty good. We've been busy"
Angel and Joyce talk for a while longer when Angel realizes what time it is. "I better get going." he stands putting the mug in the sink "I'll be back in two hours. Briena be good for Joyce. If you need me the cellphone number is on the fridge"
"What time does she go to bed?" Joyce asks
"By nine" Angel answers pulling on his jacket "I should be back 9:30 or 10." he grabs his car keys
"What are you drawing?" Joyce asks moving closer to the little girl "Wow I like your drawing"
"Thank you" Briena grins
"Do you like daycare?"
Briena shrugs "Its OK. I'd rather stay with Angel. But he says that I need to make friends."
"What do you do there?"
"Draw. Color. Play with playdough"
Joyce listens as the little girl tells her all about daycare. Glancing at the clock Joyce says "Time to clean up kiddo. Its almost bedtime" She smiles at the child as she begins to put away her things.
**** Sunnydale: Buffy and Willow's dorm ****
"What's wrong Buffy?" Riley asks noticing his girlfriends distraction from studying
"Huh?" Buffy responds jarred out of her thoughts
"You looked like you were in deep thought" Riley states
"I sometimes do that" she replies
"You've been doing it alot lately" Riley remarks
"I have?" Buffy asks
"For the past two-three weeks. More since last weekend"
"Sorry I just have a lot on my mind" she apologizes
"I've noticed" he mutters
"What's bothering you Riley?"
Riley closes his book "Since your friends were here you've been acting weird" he pauses "And you never really told me who they are"
"I don't have to tell you everything Riley. There are things you don't need to know" Buffy replies
"Why don't I need to know?" Riley demands
"Because it doesn't concern you" she snaps
"What's the big deal in telling me who they are? Are you hiding something?" he asks
"Its not a big deal." she lies
"So then who are they?" he pushes
Buffy knows he won't give up until she tells him something "Angel's an old friend"
"Old friend? As in boyfriend?" Riley asks
Buffy shrugs "Yeah. Big deal."
"Why didn't you tell me about him?" Riley demands
"I told you just not much, besides its the past. Angel and I had a pretty bad break up"
"Not bad enough if your babysitting for him"
"Even though he and I broke up we're still friends. So deal with it"
Riley nods "Its not a problem I just wish you told me that you still talk to him." he pauses "So who's the kid?"
Buffy looks at her boyfriend annoyed "His daughter" she answers "our daughter" she thinks to herself
"When did you date this guy?"
"On and off my last three years of highschool."
"You were serious with a guy who had a kid?" Riley asks amazed
Buffy shrugs "I didn't know about her neither did he. He just found out a while ago. He called me up and asked if I could watch her for the weekend. I said yes"
"Why didn't he just call the mother?"
"He did. I am her mother" she thinks to herself "She's not really involved in Briena's life" she lies. "Look Riley lets just finish studying. I need to do a quick patrol"
**** Angel's apartment ****
Joyce looks up from her reading as she hears the door open
Angel enters removing his jacket he greets Joyce "Hi how'd she do?"
Joyce smiles "She was good."
"Did she give you any trouble when you put her down?"
Joyce shakes her head "She definately doesn't take after Buffy at that age. Buffy was a terror to put to bed"
"Doesn't surprise me" Angel smiles "Brie does pretty well at bedtime except when Doyle watches her. They tend to get really hyper"
"I better get going. I have paperwork to do" she packs up her stuff
"Thanks for watching her" Angel says appreciatively
"Thanks for letting me" Joyce says gratefully
"Anytime." Angel walks Joyce to the door saying goodbye. He heads into Briena's room pulling up the covers he kisses her forehead "Sleep well Brie. I love you"
Briena stirs slightly "Hi Daddy" she mumbles sleepily
"Hi baby girl" he whispers
Briena opens her eyes sleepily "Your home" she yawns
"Yes sweetie. Now go back to sleep" he whispers smoothing her hair
"Love you Daddy" she yawns closing her eyes
Angel kisses her cheek standing he leaves the room partially closing the door behind him. Going into the kitchen he starts working on cleaning up the dinner dishes. As the phone rings he quickly wipes off his hands reaching for the phone. "Hello?"
"Hey" Buffy greets her voice calm
"Hey yourself" Angel returns "What's wrong?"
"Nothing" Buffy replies "Why do you think somethings wrong?"
"Buffy I know you. I can tell when somethings bothering you"
"I've just had a long day" she sighs tiredly
"What did you do?"
"Mostly studying" she groans "My head is hurting."
"I'm sorry"
"Not just from studying but from Riley's nagging"
"Nagging?" Angel asks amused turning off the kitchen light he heads into his room "For what?"
On the other end Buffy curls up with Mr Gordo cradling the phone against her shoulder "He finally asked about you and Briena"
"How did it go?"
"He wasn't too happy to find out how long we were together. So what did you do today?"
"Worked. Molly picked Brie up early afternoon and brought her back before dinner. I managed to get a lot of work done. Your mom came by"
"Oh great" Buffy groans "Did she behave?"
Angel chuckles changing into his pajama bottoms "She watched Brie when I went out. She left about half an hour ago" he leans against the headboard.
"How's the baby?" Buffy asks
At the question Angel hears little feet padding into his room he chuckles "Speaking of her"
"What?" Buffy asks
Briena enters Angel's room rubbing her eyes tiredly
"What are you doing up?" Angel asks the little girl
Briena shrugs crawling into the bed next to Angel
"What's Briena doing up?" Buffy asks on the other end
Angel chuckles "She's asleep again" he answers covering the child with the sheet
"I better get some sleep" Buffy says reluctantly "Give Briena a kiss for me"
"Sure" Angel agrees "I'll talk to you later"
"Bye" Buffy whispers
"Bye" he echoes hanging up the phone. He reaches over turning off the lamp he lays on his side his arm under his head. Through the darkness he looks at the sleeping child and he gives a half smile reaching out he rests his hand above her heart. Angel listens to the small heart beating feeling her chest rise and fall. "Such a beautiful sound and feeling" he thinks awed "coming from a beautiful little girl"
Part 23
**** Wednesday Evening ****
"Angel phone" Cordelia calls from the outer office
From his office Angel puts down the book he's reading to Briena standing he carries her over to his desk "Got it" he calls juggling the little girl and the phone. "Hello?"
"Angel this is Molly"
"Oh hi Molly what can I do for you?" Angel asks shifting the fidgeting little girl in his arms
"Vincent was wondering if Briena could come with us tomorrow afternoon to see the new Disney movie and then go out to dinner afterward"
Angel looks at the little girl in his arms "Sure she'd like that"
"All right then. We'll pick her up at 3."
"Sure. We'll probably be up in the office" he tells her
"Cool. Later" Molly says hanging up
Angel shakes his head at Briena who just grins at him "What are you grinnin' at?" he demands
"Is Buffy coming this weekend?" she asks
"We're going to Sunnydale" Angel tells her sitting back down
"Are you staying this time?" she asks hopefully her eyes wide
Angel nods "You are staying with Buffy though. I'm going to stay at the mansion but I'll see you every night before you go to bed" he promises
"OK" she nods content she lays her head against his chest "Read more" she requests
**** Next Afternoon ****
"Hey" Cordelia says opening the office door "Molly and Vincent are here"
Briena races passed Cordelia to the outer office "Hi" she greets happily
"Come on" Vincent says tugging on his mother's hand and taking Briena's hand "Lets go"
Angel chuckles "Have fun you guys"
Briena grins at Angel "Bye Angel. Bye Cordy"
"Remember Brie Cordy's watching you tonight" he reminds
"OK" Briena nods
"I'll have her back around 7 or 8"
"Call and let Cordelia know if its going to be any later"
"Will do" Molly nods "Come on you two rugrats lets get going"
"Bye" Briena waves
**** Sundown: The apartment ****
"Cordy make sure Brie gets to bed early enough" Angel reminds hiding stakes throughout his clothes. "I'm taking the cell so call when they get back"
Cordelia rolls her eyes "Angel I've taken care of her before"
"I know. Its the fact that this is the first time she's been out late without one of us"
"I know" she remarks
"I don't know when I'll be back. Put Brie in my bed and you can take hers."
"Isn't Doyle going with you?" Cordelia asks
Angel nods "He is. I have to go pick him up" he grabs his keys and heads out of the apartment
"He could have said bye. Or thanks Cordy" grumbles the Prom Queen
****
"Did you two like the movie?" Molly asks glancing in the rearview mirror
"I liked it" Briena nods
"It was funny" Vincent adds
Molly nods "It sure was"
Suddenly out of nowhere a car barrels into the side of Molly's car. Briena hears a slamming and screech of twisting metal then feels a sharp pain through her body and then nothing.
****
"Oh my God" Kate whispers coming to a stop at the sight of a five car pile-up. Getting out of her car she flashes her badge at the uniformed officer holding people back "What happened here?" she asks the cop
"Some idiot drove his car into the side of another car. Three dead, two in serious and a child in critical."
"A child?" Kate asks stunned
"Yeah. Over there" he points towards a mangled car
Kate looks over to see the paramedics lifting out a small dark haired child covered in blood. "Oh my God." she says horrified as she rushes over to them "How bad is she?" Kate demands
"Are you her mother?" asks a paramedic as they head towards the ambulance
Kate shakes her head following them "No I'm a friend of her father's"
"You better get a hold of him." the paramedic tells Kate closing the ambulance doors
Kate nods watching as the ambulance pulls away speeding in the direction of the hospital. She turns around running to her car taking out her cell phone she dials Angel's home number. "Angel" she says hurriedly
"Uh no this Cordelia."
"Cordelia its Kate. Is Angel there?" she asks starting her car
"No Kate he's out. Can I take a message?" Cordelia asks
"Briena was in a car accident" Kate tells her
"Oh my god" Cordelia replies "Is she OK?"
"She looked bad. They took her to the hospital. I'm on my way there now to see what I can find out"
"I'll call Angel and we'll meet you at the hospital" Cordelia says hanging up the phone. She quickly dials Angel's cell phone
**** The Sewers ****
"How's the Slayer?" Doyle asks his boss as they walk through the sewer
"She's good. Studying hard."
"You talk a lot?" Doyle asks curiously
Angel nods "Pretty much everyday" he answers as his phone rings "What Cordy?" he asks "This isn't the greatest time..." he trails off
"I know Angel. Its Brie" Cordelia interrupts
"What's wrong?" Angel demands
"Kate just called there was a car accident" she tells him
"What? Is Briena OK?" Angel demands worried
"Kate said that she didn't look too good" Cordelia admits
Angel looks at Doyle "All right grab the paperwork Jack gave me and meet us at the hospital" he hangs up the phone
"What's wrong Angel?" Doyle asks seeing his bosses fear
"Its Brie... she was in a car accident. They took her to the hospital"
"We better get there" Doyle says as they hurry throught the sewers to the car
**** The hospital ****
Kate parks her car racing into the hospital "I'm looking for the little girl brought in from the car accident" she says to the nurse at the desk
"She's in the 3rd emergency OR." the nurse answers
Katie nods "Thanks." she rushes down the hall standing infront of the door she watches as the doctors and nurses rush around the little girl. "Come on Angel" she mutters pacing
A few moments later Angel and Doyle rush down the hallway "How is she?" Angel asks
"I don't know." Kate answers "They've been working on her"
"What happened?" Angel demands his eyes on his injured daughter
"Some guy broadsided the car Briena was in. He caused a five car pile-up."
"What about the others in the car?" Angel asks hoping that Molly and Vincent are all right
"From what I was told they died on impact"
Angel sits down leaning on his forearms "The driver?"
"I'm not sure" Kate answers
Angel looks up as he hears the door opens "How is she?" he asks the doctor
The doctor looks over the somberly dressed man "And you are?"
Angel looks at the doctor about ready to vamp when Doyle puts his hand on his shoulder "I'm her father"
The doctor nods "Her injuries aren't quiet as severe as we thought. Three of her ribs are fractured. She has a head injury and some cuts."
"How bad is her head injury?" Angel asks
"We aren't really sure but its possible she has some bleeding" the doctor tells them as they wheel Briena to the elevator. "We'll have to do some tests. If there is any bleeding in her brain we'll need to relieve it."
The doctor finishes "You can wait in the waiting room on the fifth floor I'll let you know as soon as I know anything"
Angel watches the elevator close as Cordelia joins them "How is she?" Cordy asks seeing the pained look on Angel's face
"They took her up for some tests" Doyle answers
"Angel?" Kate asks tentatively noticing the vampires clenched fists
Angel sighs unclenching his fists he runs his hands through his hair "I need to call Buffy"
"Lets go up to the waiting room first" Cordelia suggests tugging on his jacket sleeve she leads the distraught vampire into the elevator. Once in the waiting room Cordelia looks at Angel staring at the wall absently "Do you want me to call Buffy?" she asks
"No" Angel shakes his head "I need to tell her" he stands "Let me know when the doctor comes out"
Cordelia watches as the vampire heads to the stairwell once the door closes behind him she sighs
"What's wrong Princess?" Doyle asks
"I'm worried about him"
"Cordy he's worried about his daughter" Doyle reminds
"I know that's what I'm worried about."
Angel stares at the cell phone in his hand then sighing he dials the number to Buffy and Willow's dorm room.
"Hello?"
"Willow its Angel is Buffy there?"
"Nope. Sorry Angel she's out" Willow replies
"Willow I need to find her. Do you know where she is?" Angel says
"Is something wrong?" Willow asks
"Brie's in the hospital." Angel answers
"Oh my God. Is she OK?" Willow asks
"She's being checked out right now"
"Oh no" Willow gasps looking around the room she finds Buffy's phone book. "She might be at Riley's. Do you want me to call her?"
"No. I'll do it what's his number?" he listens as Willow gives him a number.
"Thanks Willow." He says hanging up the phone
**** Sunnydale: Riley's dorm ****
"You know I've got to go patrol" Buffy starts to move
Riley groans "Stay awhile longer" he says pulling her back into his arms "We've got time to patrol" he says kissing her shoulder
"Riley" she starts to say but pauses tensing up
"Something wrong?" Riley asks
"Uh no" she whispers shaking her head sighing she pulls away sitting up "I really should get going" she says reaching for her clothes
"Somethings bothering you" Riley states
Buffy is about to reply when the phone rings
"This is Riley" he greets "Uh yes she is just a sec" he says covering the phone with his hand "Buffy its for you."
Buffy frowns knowing that someone would only call her at Riley's if it was important. She takes the phone from her boyfriend "Yes?"
At the other end Angel waits anxiously to hear his love's voice. "Its me"
"Is something wrong?" Buffy demands hearing Angel's voice on the other end.
Angel sighs "Its Brie"
"Oh my God what happened?" Buffy asks worried
"Buffy she's in the hospital" Angel says softly
"Is she OK?"
"No" he replies "she was in a car accident"
"What?" she gasps pulling on her clothes "How did that happen? Is everyone else OK?" she asks
"She was out with Molly and Vincent when another car hit them. Molly and her son are dead."
"Oh no. I'll be there as soon as I can" she promises
"Buff?"
"Yea"
"I love you" Angel says hanging up
Buffy looks at the phone in her hand "I've got to go" she mutters
"Who was that?" Riley asks suspiciously as he pulls on his jeans
Buffy ignores him "There's been an accident. I'm going to LA. Wait I have to get there" she mutters dialing Giles' number "Giles its me" she listens "Great so he's gone? Where? When will he be back? Damn it." she covers the receiver "Riley I need a favor"
"Sure what?" Riley asks
"I need to go to LA I hate to ask you but could you take me?"
Riley frowns "What for?"
"Briena's been in a car accident. Please?" she begs "All you need to do is drop me off"
Riley nods "All right. I'll take you"
"Thank you" Buffy says greatfully
**** The Hospital ****
Angel leaves the stairwell finding the others sitting around
Cordelia looks up seeing the somber faced Angel "So did you get a hold of Buffy?"
Angel nods sitting down "She's on her way."
**** Sunnydale: Riley's Car ****
"Thank you Riley" Buffy says again
"Buffy" he begins looking at her from the corner of his eye "Why are you doing this? I mean he's your ex and its not like the kid's yours"
Buffy looks at him startled then angry "Angel maybe my ex but he's still important to me." she says "And Briena is his child and she is a very sweet girl."
"All right. Sorry"
"And she is my baby" Buffy thinks looking out her window
**** The hospital ****
Angel looks up to see the doctor walking towards them.
"How is she doctor?" Cordelia asks
Angel stands "How's Briena?"
"She's doing OK. She hasn't regained conciousness yet. She was very lucky little girl." he tells Angel "her head injury wasn't as severe as we thought."
"How long 'til she regains consciousness?" Angel asks
"I'm not really sure. Its hard to tell with head injuries. It could be at anytime"
Angel nods
"They took her to the pediatric floor in room 107 if you'd like to see her." the doctor tells them
"Thanks" Angel says relieved as they head towards the elevator. "Cordy can you call Kate and let her know what's going on?" Angel requests
"Uh sure" Cordelia agrees as the elevator stops on the pediatric floor
she heads towards the payphones
Angel looks at Doyle "Can you go and get Brie's stuffed dog? I think she left it in my office. If its not there then check downstairs in my room." he suggests handing the half demon his car keys.
"Anything else?" Doyle asks
Angel looks thoughtful "Grab the book on my nightstand we're in the middle of reading it" he says softly
"I'll be back as soon as I can" Doyle promises "Give Monkey a kiss for me" he requests at Angel's nod he goes back towards the elevator
Angel heads into room 107 where he finds Briena in the sparsely lit room. Going to the bedside he leans down brushing a kiss across her forehead. "Hey baby girl" he says softly as he sits in the chair "I'm glad your OK." he whispers leaning on his forearms "You scared us sweetie. I was scared that I'd lose you" he takes the small hand in his large one "Now all you need to do is wake up and give your Mommy and me a big hug."
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.
_____________________________
Part 21
**** Next Morning ****
Briena awakens to find herself in her own bed smiling she hops out of bed with Mr. Doggie under her arm she goes into the livingroom where she finds the shopping bags. Opening one of the bags she takes out a book of animals and carries it into Angel's bedroom. Carefully she crawls into the bed beside the sleeping vampire.
"Shh Mr. Doggie Angel's sleeping" she whispers to the stuffed dog.
Unknown to her Angel had awoken when she had gotten out of bed. Pretending to be asleep the vampire listens to Briena as she talks to the stuffed animal.
"That's an aardvark. They eat ants." she whispers turning the page "That's a bear... they eat plants, fish, bugs, and on cartoons honey. Thats a cat." the page turns "dog. I like dogs but Angel said we can't have one. Elephant. He's got a funny nose called a trunk." turns the page "That's a fish. Spike calls Riley Fishboy. I don't like him he's bad"
Hearing that Angel props his head up on his hand. "Briena its not nice to call Riley Fishboy"
Briena looks at him her eyes wide "But Spike calls him that"
"Briena what Spike does isn't always good" he reminds
Briena scrunches her nose up "I don't like him Angel"
"I know baby." he reaches out tapping her nose with his forefinger "but still its not nice to call people names. No matter how much you dislike them"
"OK Angel"
"Good" Angel leans his back against the headboard. "Brie baby why do you say Riley is bad?"
"I dunno" she shrugs "He feels bad" she replies
"Why does he feel bad?"
Briena looks at the stuffed dog then at Angel her eyes sad "He hurts them. He thinks they're all bad. He thinks Spike's bad. He thinks Daddy's bad." she sniffles tearfully "He thinks I'm bad too."
"Oh sweetie you aren't bad" Angel pulls her onto his lap. "He just fears what he doesn't understand."
"He makes my tummy and head hurt" she tells him
"I promise I won't let him make your head or tummy hurt ever again"
" 'kay" Brie sighs happily
"Now how about we read more of your book" Angel suggests picking up the disgarded book
"OK" Briena agrees
**** Thursday Afternoon ****
"Brie have fun at the zoo" Angel tells the little girl
"I will" she smiles throwing her arms around his neck she kisses his cheek "Bye"
"Cordy keep an eye on her" Angel orders the brunette
"I don't see why I have to go" Cordelia whines
"Because if Doyle has a vision how is he going to explain it" Angel asks
"Oh fine. Come on Briena" Cordelia takes the little girl's hand
"Bye Angel. Bye Doyle" Briena waves as they walk out of the office
"So think she's gonna last?" Doyle questions
"Who Cordy?"
"Yea"
"She'll be fine"
"Lets hope she is. Otherwise she'll bitch about it for a while"
**** Later that afternoon ****
"Angel come and get your kid" Cordelia calls entering the apartment
Angel walks into the kitchen to find Cordelia carrying the sleeping child. Carefully he takes Briena from her arms. "How was it?" he asks taking the child into her room
"Fine" Cordelia answers flopping on the couch "Those kids are terrors."
"Was Brie good?" Angel asks joining her
"She and two other kids were the only ones that behaved"
"Thanks for going with her."
Cordelia stands "Sure. I'll see you tomorrow"
Angel sits at his desk and starts to do some reading after a while he looks up to see Briena walking out of her room rubbing her eyes
"Angel" she says sleepily
"Hey sweetie" Angel smiles
"I'm hungry" she says
"What do you want to eat?" he asks
"Can I have grilled cheese?" she requests
"Sure Brie baby" he stands going into the kitchen. Briena follows climbing onto her chair she watches as Angel makes her sandwich. "Brie did you have fun today?" he asks
"Uh huh" she nods "I saw giraffees, elephants, monkeys, bears, and big kitties." Angel listens as she tells him all she saw occasionally asking her questions about the animals.
Later that night Angel is tucking her into bed "I'm glad you had fun today baby" he smiles leaning close "Did you like seeing all those animals?"
Briena smiles sadly "I woulda had more fun if you had been able to come too Daddy"
"I wish I had been able to come."
"Someday we'll be able to" Briena yawns "mommy will come too" she closes her eyes
"One day" Angel muses "Night babygirl" he kisses her forehead
"Night Daddy" she sighs
Angel sits there listening to the little girl fall asleep "I love you babygirl"
**** Next Morning ****
"Angel" Briena says throwing herself on the bed beside him "Angel wake up" she shakes him
Angel opens his eyes smiling at the little girl
"You awake Angel?" she demands
"Yes"
Briena grins "Is Buffy coming this weekend?"
"No little one she isn't"
Briena frowns "Do I get to go stay with Buffy?"
"No my girl" he replies tucking a strand of hair behind her ear "She has to study this weekend."
"Oh"
"You'll see her next weekend. I promise"
"Is Spike coming to visit this weekend?" Briena asks hopefully
"I don't know little one. He tends to show up when he wants"
"Okay"
"But Molly called and asked me if you could go play with Vincent tomorrow afternoon" Angel tells her
"I like playing with Vincent. He's almost as fun to play with as Spike"
Angel smiles "Come on Brie lets go get you some breakfast"
Part 22
**** Saturday Afternoon ****
Hearing a knock at the door Angel calls "Briena Molly and Vincent are here" he opens the door "Come on in" he invites
"Is she ready to go?" Molly asks
"I think" Angel answers just as Briena races into the kitchen "Briena did you put away your toys?"
Briena fidgets looking at the floor
Angel shakes his head "Move it. Finish cleaning up" he points to the livingroom
Briena sighs trudging into livingroom
"Do you want anything to drink?" Angel asks going to the fridge
"No thanks" Molly shakes her head
"Mommy can I go help Briena?" Vincent asks
"Sure" Molly nods watching as her son races out of the kitchen. She sits down at the table with a sigh
Angel sits across from her "How's school going?"
Molly sighs "Not good. Things have been a little hectic."
"If you need someone to watch Vincent he can spend the day here." he offers
"I may take you up on that" Molly grins
"Its fine with me. You've done a lot for us... especially Brie"
"She's a sweet kid. She and Vincent get along great"
"Done" Briena announces reentering the kitchen Vincent following
Angel smiles crouching before her "Did you put away your toys?"
"Yep"
"Did you put away your books?"
"Uh huh" she nods
"What about your stuffed animals?"
"I put them away"
"Dirty clothes?"
"In laundry basket" she answers with a grin
"Brush your teeth?" Angel asks
"Yep" she tells him
Angel smiles back "Well then give me a hug and your done"
Briena throws her arms around his neck "Bye" she says kissing his cheek
"Have fun and be good for Molly"
" 'kay" she nods
Angel stands "Thanks again Molly"
"No problem" the teen smiles "You two ready?" she asks the two kids
"Yes" they answer happily
"Bye Angel" Briena waves
"Bye Angel" Vincent echoes
"I'll have her back by dinner." Molly promises following the two out the door
"We'll be in the office" Angel informs her watching as they leave. Locking the door after they leave he takes the elevator up to the office.
"Hey" Cordelia greets as he enters taking a seat at his desk. "So where's Brie?"
"Molly came to pick her up for the afternoon" Angel answers opening the file cabinet
"You know I think those two have a little crush on each other" Cordelia chuckles
"She's too young to have a crush" Angel protests
Cordelia rolls her eyes "Angel your never too young or in some cases too old to have a crush."
Angel groans "I don't want to think about that" he heads into his office Cordelia following close behind
"Oh I get it" Cordelia says sitting down
"Get what?" Angel asks distractedly
"You don't want her to grow up" Cordelia remarks "You want her to be a little girl forever"
Angel looks up at her "I guess I do." he leans back in his chair
"Angel she's going to get older there's nothing you can do about it." she frowns "other than the whole vampire thing."
"Cordelia" he growls
"All right all right" she holds her hands up in the air "I'll get to work"
**** A few hours later ****
Joyce opens the outer office door to find the dark haired ex-Cheerleader sitting at the desk.
Cordelia looks up "Mrs Summers" she says surprised
"Cordelia" Joyce nods "Is Angel in?"
"Uh yeah he's on the phone. I'll just go let him know your here. Have a seat" she gestures to the couch. Cordelia knocks on the door entering the office
"Kate can you hold on for a sec?" he asks "Thanks" he covers the receiver "What?"
"Mrs. Summers is here to see you" she tells him
Angel frowns "Tell her I'll be a minute"
Cordelia nods closing the office door behind her "He'll be a minute"
Joyce nods
"Kate I need to call you back. Buffy's mom just came into town"
"Is everything OK?" Kate asks
"Yeah. I'll talk to you later" he says hanging up. He stands going to the door "Hello Joyce" he greets
"Hi Angel. I'm in town for a few days. I thought I'd stop by and see how things are going" Joyce stands
"come on in." he invites "Brie's not here right now. She went to over to a friends house. She should be back in a while"
Joyce enters his office looking around "How's she doing in daycare?" she asks sitting down
"She's having fun. Its taking her a while to make friends other than Vincent but she's doing better. She's not as shy as she was at first."
Joyce smiles
"So what are you doing in LA?" Angel asks
"There's a couple art shows, an estate sale, and an auction going on. I'm here until Monday. Then I have to head to San Diego for another auction and estate sale."
Angel frowns "Are you here for the auction at the Granger Hotel?"
"Uh yes I am. Why?"
"I just heard about it" he cocks his head towards the door
The outer office door opens "Daddy" Briena calls excitedly
Angel goes to the doorway only to have Briena throw herself into his arms "Hey you where's Molly?"
"You know she's like a rabbit" Molly laughs entering the office carrying Vincent
Angel chuckles "That she is. So was she good?"
"They both behaved" Molly tells him
Angel nods "Good." he senses Joyce behind him "Joyce this is Molly and that is Vincent"
"Hello" Joyce smiles
"Hi nice to meet you" Molly smiles back
"Hi" Briena smiles at Joyce
"Mommy" Vincent whines "I'm sleepy"
"I know you are." Molly grins at Briena "I'll see you later"
" 'kay" Briena smiles back "Bye"
"Bye 'riena" Vincent yawns
"Thanks for watching her" Angel says to Molly
"No problem" Molly says carrying her son out the door
Angel turns to Joyce "Joyce would you like to stay for dinner?"
"Stay" Briena requests hopefully
Seeing the look on Briena's face Joyce nods "Sure"
"Yeah" Briena says happily
The adults laugh at the little girl's enthusiam "Cordy?" Angel asks
"Sorry I have plans" the ex-Cheerleader replies "Remember Doyle was supposed to watch Briena tonight while you patrol cause I have a date"
"Oh yeah" Angel remembers "Have a good time"
"I'll lock up" Cordelia says waving them to the elevator
"Bye Cordy" Briena waves over the dark haired vampires shoulder
"It was good to see you Cordelia" Joyce smiles
"Same"
Once downstairs Angel puts Briena down on the floor "Brie why don't you go show Joyce your room" he suggests
Briena nods going to Joyce she tugs on her hand "Come on"
Laughing Joyce follows the little girl into her room. Angel smiles happy that his daughter and Joyce have taken to each other.
**** Two hours later ****
"Let me help you clean up" Joyce offers standing
"I've got it." Angel replies noticing Briena is trying to sneak out of the kitchen "I don't think so Brie"
Briena stops "I want to go color" she pouts
Angel looks at her "Put your dishes in the sink and then you can go color"
"Oh all right" she grumbles carrying her dishes to the sink "Now?"
"Go ahead" he nods "Want some tea?" he asks Joyce
"Sounds good" she says
Angel puts the teakettle on then faces Joyce "I was wondering if you could keep an eye on Brie for a few hours"
"Sure. I'd love to"
"What are you looking to acquire at the auctions?" Angel asks
"I'm not really sure. I'm mostly just browsing"
"I've heard that the auction at the Granger Hotel is going to have some pretty good pieces."
Briena enters the kitchen carrying her paper and pencils joining them at the table
Hearing the teakettle whistle Angel stands going to the cabinet he takes out the mugs and teabags. "So how's the gallery doing?"
"Pretty good. We've been busy"
Angel and Joyce talk for a while longer when Angel realizes what time it is. "I better get going." he stands putting the mug in the sink "I'll be back in two hours. Briena be good for Joyce. If you need me the cellphone number is on the fridge"
"What time does she go to bed?" Joyce asks
"By nine" Angel answers pulling on his jacket "I should be back 9:30 or 10." he grabs his car keys
"What are you drawing?" Joyce asks moving closer to the little girl "Wow I like your drawing"
"Thank you" Briena grins
"Do you like daycare?"
Briena shrugs "Its OK. I'd rather stay with Angel. But he says that I need to make friends."
"What do you do there?"
"Draw. Color. Play with playdough"
Joyce listens as the little girl tells her all about daycare. Glancing at the clock Joyce says "Time to clean up kiddo. Its almost bedtime" She smiles at the child as she begins to put away her things.
**** Sunnydale: Buffy and Willow's dorm ****
"What's wrong Buffy?" Riley asks noticing his girlfriends distraction from studying
"Huh?" Buffy responds jarred out of her thoughts
"You looked like you were in deep thought" Riley states
"I sometimes do that" she replies
"You've been doing it alot lately" Riley remarks
"I have?" Buffy asks
"For the past two-three weeks. More since last weekend"
"Sorry I just have a lot on my mind" she apologizes
"I've noticed" he mutters
"What's bothering you Riley?"
Riley closes his book "Since your friends were here you've been acting weird" he pauses "And you never really told me who they are"
"I don't have to tell you everything Riley. There are things you don't need to know" Buffy replies
"Why don't I need to know?" Riley demands
"Because it doesn't concern you" she snaps
"What's the big deal in telling me who they are? Are you hiding something?" he asks
"Its not a big deal." she lies
"So then who are they?" he pushes
Buffy knows he won't give up until she tells him something "Angel's an old friend"
"Old friend? As in boyfriend?" Riley asks
Buffy shrugs "Yeah. Big deal."
"Why didn't you tell me about him?" Riley demands
"I told you just not much, besides its the past. Angel and I had a pretty bad break up"
"Not bad enough if your babysitting for him"
"Even though he and I broke up we're still friends. So deal with it"
Riley nods "Its not a problem I just wish you told me that you still talk to him." he pauses "So who's the kid?"
Buffy looks at her boyfriend annoyed "His daughter" she answers "our daughter" she thinks to herself
"When did you date this guy?"
"On and off my last three years of highschool."
"You were serious with a guy who had a kid?" Riley asks amazed
Buffy shrugs "I didn't know about her neither did he. He just found out a while ago. He called me up and asked if I could watch her for the weekend. I said yes"
"Why didn't he just call the mother?"
"He did. I am her mother" she thinks to herself "She's not really involved in Briena's life" she lies. "Look Riley lets just finish studying. I need to do a quick patrol"
**** Angel's apartment ****
Joyce looks up from her reading as she hears the door open
Angel enters removing his jacket he greets Joyce "Hi how'd she do?"
Joyce smiles "She was good."
"Did she give you any trouble when you put her down?"
Joyce shakes her head "She definately doesn't take after Buffy at that age. Buffy was a terror to put to bed"
"Doesn't surprise me" Angel smiles "Brie does pretty well at bedtime except when Doyle watches her. They tend to get really hyper"
"I better get going. I have paperwork to do" she packs up her stuff
"Thanks for watching her" Angel says appreciatively
"Thanks for letting me" Joyce says gratefully
"Anytime." Angel walks Joyce to the door saying goodbye. He heads into Briena's room pulling up the covers he kisses her forehead "Sleep well Brie. I love you"
Briena stirs slightly "Hi Daddy" she mumbles sleepily
"Hi baby girl" he whispers
Briena opens her eyes sleepily "Your home" she yawns
"Yes sweetie. Now go back to sleep" he whispers smoothing her hair
"Love you Daddy" she yawns closing her eyes
Angel kisses her cheek standing he leaves the room partially closing the door behind him. Going into the kitchen he starts working on cleaning up the dinner dishes. As the phone rings he quickly wipes off his hands reaching for the phone. "Hello?"
"Hey" Buffy greets her voice calm
"Hey yourself" Angel returns "What's wrong?"
"Nothing" Buffy replies "Why do you think somethings wrong?"
"Buffy I know you. I can tell when somethings bothering you"
"I've just had a long day" she sighs tiredly
"What did you do?"
"Mostly studying" she groans "My head is hurting."
"I'm sorry"
"Not just from studying but from Riley's nagging"
"Nagging?" Angel asks amused turning off the kitchen light he heads into his room "For what?"
On the other end Buffy curls up with Mr Gordo cradling the phone against her shoulder "He finally asked about you and Briena"
"How did it go?"
"He wasn't too happy to find out how long we were together. So what did you do today?"
"Worked. Molly picked Brie up early afternoon and brought her back before dinner. I managed to get a lot of work done. Your mom came by"
"Oh great" Buffy groans "Did she behave?"
Angel chuckles changing into his pajama bottoms "She watched Brie when I went out. She left about half an hour ago" he leans against the headboard.
"How's the baby?" Buffy asks
At the question Angel hears little feet padding into his room he chuckles "Speaking of her"
"What?" Buffy asks
Briena enters Angel's room rubbing her eyes tiredly
"What are you doing up?" Angel asks the little girl
Briena shrugs crawling into the bed next to Angel
"What's Briena doing up?" Buffy asks on the other end
Angel chuckles "She's asleep again" he answers covering the child with the sheet
"I better get some sleep" Buffy says reluctantly "Give Briena a kiss for me"
"Sure" Angel agrees "I'll talk to you later"
"Bye" Buffy whispers
"Bye" he echoes hanging up the phone. He reaches over turning off the lamp he lays on his side his arm under his head. Through the darkness he looks at the sleeping child and he gives a half smile reaching out he rests his hand above her heart. Angel listens to the small heart beating feeling her chest rise and fall. "Such a beautiful sound and feeling" he thinks awed "coming from a beautiful little girl"
Part 23
**** Wednesday Evening ****
"Angel phone" Cordelia calls from the outer office
From his office Angel puts down the book he's reading to Briena standing he carries her over to his desk "Got it" he calls juggling the little girl and the phone. "Hello?"
"Angel this is Molly"
"Oh hi Molly what can I do for you?" Angel asks shifting the fidgeting little girl in his arms
"Vincent was wondering if Briena could come with us tomorrow afternoon to see the new Disney movie and then go out to dinner afterward"
Angel looks at the little girl in his arms "Sure she'd like that"
"All right then. We'll pick her up at 3."
"Sure. We'll probably be up in the office" he tells her
"Cool. Later" Molly says hanging up
Angel shakes his head at Briena who just grins at him "What are you grinnin' at?" he demands
"Is Buffy coming this weekend?" she asks
"We're going to Sunnydale" Angel tells her sitting back down
"Are you staying this time?" she asks hopefully her eyes wide
Angel nods "You are staying with Buffy though. I'm going to stay at the mansion but I'll see you every night before you go to bed" he promises
"OK" she nods content she lays her head against his chest "Read more" she requests
**** Next Afternoon ****
"Hey" Cordelia says opening the office door "Molly and Vincent are here"
Briena races passed Cordelia to the outer office "Hi" she greets happily
"Come on" Vincent says tugging on his mother's hand and taking Briena's hand "Lets go"
Angel chuckles "Have fun you guys"
Briena grins at Angel "Bye Angel. Bye Cordy"
"Remember Brie Cordy's watching you tonight" he reminds
"OK" Briena nods
"I'll have her back around 7 or 8"
"Call and let Cordelia know if its going to be any later"
"Will do" Molly nods "Come on you two rugrats lets get going"
"Bye" Briena waves
**** Sundown: The apartment ****
"Cordy make sure Brie gets to bed early enough" Angel reminds hiding stakes throughout his clothes. "I'm taking the cell so call when they get back"
Cordelia rolls her eyes "Angel I've taken care of her before"
"I know. Its the fact that this is the first time she's been out late without one of us"
"I know" she remarks
"I don't know when I'll be back. Put Brie in my bed and you can take hers."
"Isn't Doyle going with you?" Cordelia asks
Angel nods "He is. I have to go pick him up" he grabs his keys and heads out of the apartment
"He could have said bye. Or thanks Cordy" grumbles the Prom Queen
****
"Did you two like the movie?" Molly asks glancing in the rearview mirror
"I liked it" Briena nods
"It was funny" Vincent adds
Molly nods "It sure was"
Suddenly out of nowhere a car barrels into the side of Molly's car. Briena hears a slamming and screech of twisting metal then feels a sharp pain through her body and then nothing.
****
"Oh my God" Kate whispers coming to a stop at the sight of a five car pile-up. Getting out of her car she flashes her badge at the uniformed officer holding people back "What happened here?" she asks the cop
"Some idiot drove his car into the side of another car. Three dead, two in serious and a child in critical."
"A child?" Kate asks stunned
"Yeah. Over there" he points towards a mangled car
Kate looks over to see the paramedics lifting out a small dark haired child covered in blood. "Oh my God." she says horrified as she rushes over to them "How bad is she?" Kate demands
"Are you her mother?" asks a paramedic as they head towards the ambulance
Kate shakes her head following them "No I'm a friend of her father's"
"You better get a hold of him." the paramedic tells Kate closing the ambulance doors
Kate nods watching as the ambulance pulls away speeding in the direction of the hospital. She turns around running to her car taking out her cell phone she dials Angel's home number. "Angel" she says hurriedly
"Uh no this Cordelia."
"Cordelia its Kate. Is Angel there?" she asks starting her car
"No Kate he's out. Can I take a message?" Cordelia asks
"Briena was in a car accident" Kate tells her
"Oh my god" Cordelia replies "Is she OK?"
"She looked bad. They took her to the hospital. I'm on my way there now to see what I can find out"
"I'll call Angel and we'll meet you at the hospital" Cordelia says hanging up the phone. She quickly dials Angel's cell phone
**** The Sewers ****
"How's the Slayer?" Doyle asks his boss as they walk through the sewer
"She's good. Studying hard."
"You talk a lot?" Doyle asks curiously
Angel nods "Pretty much everyday" he answers as his phone rings "What Cordy?" he asks "This isn't the greatest time..." he trails off
"I know Angel. Its Brie" Cordelia interrupts
"What's wrong?" Angel demands
"Kate just called there was a car accident" she tells him
"What? Is Briena OK?" Angel demands worried
"Kate said that she didn't look too good" Cordelia admits
Angel looks at Doyle "All right grab the paperwork Jack gave me and meet us at the hospital" he hangs up the phone
"What's wrong Angel?" Doyle asks seeing his bosses fear
"Its Brie... she was in a car accident. They took her to the hospital"
"We better get there" Doyle says as they hurry throught the sewers to the car
**** The hospital ****
Kate parks her car racing into the hospital "I'm looking for the little girl brought in from the car accident" she says to the nurse at the desk
"She's in the 3rd emergency OR." the nurse answers
Katie nods "Thanks." she rushes down the hall standing infront of the door she watches as the doctors and nurses rush around the little girl. "Come on Angel" she mutters pacing
A few moments later Angel and Doyle rush down the hallway "How is she?" Angel asks
"I don't know." Kate answers "They've been working on her"
"What happened?" Angel demands his eyes on his injured daughter
"Some guy broadsided the car Briena was in. He caused a five car pile-up."
"What about the others in the car?" Angel asks hoping that Molly and Vincent are all right
"From what I was told they died on impact"
Angel sits down leaning on his forearms "The driver?"
"I'm not sure" Kate answers
Angel looks up as he hears the door opens "How is she?" he asks the doctor
The doctor looks over the somberly dressed man "And you are?"
Angel looks at the doctor about ready to vamp when Doyle puts his hand on his shoulder "I'm her father"
The doctor nods "Her injuries aren't quiet as severe as we thought. Three of her ribs are fractured. She has a head injury and some cuts."
"How bad is her head injury?" Angel asks
"We aren't really sure but its possible she has some bleeding" the doctor tells them as they wheel Briena to the elevator. "We'll have to do some tests. If there is any bleeding in her brain we'll need to relieve it."
The doctor finishes "You can wait in the waiting room on the fifth floor I'll let you know as soon as I know anything"
Angel watches the elevator close as Cordelia joins them "How is she?" Cordy asks seeing the pained look on Angel's face
"They took her up for some tests" Doyle answers
"Angel?" Kate asks tentatively noticing the vampires clenched fists
Angel sighs unclenching his fists he runs his hands through his hair "I need to call Buffy"
"Lets go up to the waiting room first" Cordelia suggests tugging on his jacket sleeve she leads the distraught vampire into the elevator. Once in the waiting room Cordelia looks at Angel staring at the wall absently "Do you want me to call Buffy?" she asks
"No" Angel shakes his head "I need to tell her" he stands "Let me know when the doctor comes out"
Cordelia watches as the vampire heads to the stairwell once the door closes behind him she sighs
"What's wrong Princess?" Doyle asks
"I'm worried about him"
"Cordy he's worried about his daughter" Doyle reminds
"I know that's what I'm worried about."
Angel stares at the cell phone in his hand then sighing he dials the number to Buffy and Willow's dorm room.
"Hello?"
"Willow its Angel is Buffy there?"
"Nope. Sorry Angel she's out" Willow replies
"Willow I need to find her. Do you know where she is?" Angel says
"Is something wrong?" Willow asks
"Brie's in the hospital." Angel answers
"Oh my God. Is she OK?" Willow asks
"She's being checked out right now"
"Oh no" Willow gasps looking around the room she finds Buffy's phone book. "She might be at Riley's. Do you want me to call her?"
"No. I'll do it what's his number?" he listens as Willow gives him a number.
"Thanks Willow." He says hanging up the phone
**** Sunnydale: Riley's dorm ****
"You know I've got to go patrol" Buffy starts to move
Riley groans "Stay awhile longer" he says pulling her back into his arms "We've got time to patrol" he says kissing her shoulder
"Riley" she starts to say but pauses tensing up
"Something wrong?" Riley asks
"Uh no" she whispers shaking her head sighing she pulls away sitting up "I really should get going" she says reaching for her clothes
"Somethings bothering you" Riley states
Buffy is about to reply when the phone rings
"This is Riley" he greets "Uh yes she is just a sec" he says covering the phone with his hand "Buffy its for you."
Buffy frowns knowing that someone would only call her at Riley's if it was important. She takes the phone from her boyfriend "Yes?"
At the other end Angel waits anxiously to hear his love's voice. "Its me"
"Is something wrong?" Buffy demands hearing Angel's voice on the other end.
Angel sighs "Its Brie"
"Oh my God what happened?" Buffy asks worried
"Buffy she's in the hospital" Angel says softly
"Is she OK?"
"No" he replies "she was in a car accident"
"What?" she gasps pulling on her clothes "How did that happen? Is everyone else OK?" she asks
"She was out with Molly and Vincent when another car hit them. Molly and her son are dead."
"Oh no. I'll be there as soon as I can" she promises
"Buff?"
"Yea"
"I love you" Angel says hanging up
Buffy looks at the phone in her hand "I've got to go" she mutters
"Who was that?" Riley asks suspiciously as he pulls on his jeans
Buffy ignores him "There's been an accident. I'm going to LA. Wait I have to get there" she mutters dialing Giles' number "Giles its me" she listens "Great so he's gone? Where? When will he be back? Damn it." she covers the receiver "Riley I need a favor"
"Sure what?" Riley asks
"I need to go to LA I hate to ask you but could you take me?"
Riley frowns "What for?"
"Briena's been in a car accident. Please?" she begs "All you need to do is drop me off"
Riley nods "All right. I'll take you"
"Thank you" Buffy says greatfully
**** The Hospital ****
Angel leaves the stairwell finding the others sitting around
Cordelia looks up seeing the somber faced Angel "So did you get a hold of Buffy?"
Angel nods sitting down "She's on her way."
**** Sunnydale: Riley's Car ****
"Thank you Riley" Buffy says again
"Buffy" he begins looking at her from the corner of his eye "Why are you doing this? I mean he's your ex and its not like the kid's yours"
Buffy looks at him startled then angry "Angel maybe my ex but he's still important to me." she says "And Briena is his child and she is a very sweet girl."
"All right. Sorry"
"And she is my baby" Buffy thinks looking out her window
**** The hospital ****
Angel looks up to see the doctor walking towards them.
"How is she doctor?" Cordelia asks
Angel stands "How's Briena?"
"She's doing OK. She hasn't regained conciousness yet. She was very lucky little girl." he tells Angel "her head injury wasn't as severe as we thought."
"How long 'til she regains consciousness?" Angel asks
"I'm not really sure. Its hard to tell with head injuries. It could be at anytime"
Angel nods
"They took her to the pediatric floor in room 107 if you'd like to see her." the doctor tells them
"Thanks" Angel says relieved as they head towards the elevator. "Cordy can you call Kate and let her know what's going on?" Angel requests
"Uh sure" Cordelia agrees as the elevator stops on the pediatric floor
she heads towards the payphones
Angel looks at Doyle "Can you go and get Brie's stuffed dog? I think she left it in my office. If its not there then check downstairs in my room." he suggests handing the half demon his car keys.
"Anything else?" Doyle asks
Angel looks thoughtful "Grab the book on my nightstand we're in the middle of reading it" he says softly
"I'll be back as soon as I can" Doyle promises "Give Monkey a kiss for me" he requests at Angel's nod he goes back towards the elevator
Angel heads into room 107 where he finds Briena in the sparsely lit room. Going to the bedside he leans down brushing a kiss across her forehead. "Hey baby girl" he says softly as he sits in the chair "I'm glad your OK." he whispers leaning on his forearms "You scared us sweetie. I was scared that I'd lose you" he takes the small hand in his large one "Now all you need to do is wake up and give your Mommy and me a big hug."