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 24
**** Two hours later ****
Riley pulls into the hospital parking lot "Buffy" he says reaching over he lightly shakes the sleeping Slayer
"Riley" she mutters
"We're here" he announces
Buffy opens her eyes alert she looks around "Thanks Riley" she says unbuckling her seatbelt she starts to open the passenger door.
"I'm coming with you" Riley announces
"What?" Buffy says turning to look at her boyfriend surprised "You don't need to come up"
"I want to." Riley says unbuckling his seatbelt "Unless you don't want me to"
"Um its not that. Its just I thought that you had class tomorrow."
"I do but I can miss it"
Buffy nods reluctantly "Look before we go in there's something I should warn you about"
"What?" Riley asks
Buffy looks at the sandyhaired college student "Angel might seem to be cold and rude but he's not. He's just a little reserved around people he doesn't know. He's also very protective of Briena and his friends."
Riley nods "All right. Anything else?"
"Riley I need you to promise me that you will respect Angel's privacy towards Briena and himself."
Riley nods "I promise. What's the big deal about his privacy?"
"Like I said he's reserved." she shrugs getting out of the car.
Riley takes her hand "I promise I will be on my best behavior" he grins
"Riley that's all I ask" Buffy smiles greatfully as they enter the hospital they stop at the nurses desk "Hi" Buffy greets the nurse
"Can I help you?" the nurse asks
"I'm looking for a patient named Briena Kelin?" Buffy requests
The nurse types in the name "Oh yes. She's on the pediatric floor"
Buffy nods "Thank you" she says heading towards the elevator. She stands there rocking on her heels
"What's got you so nervous?" Riley asks placing his arm around her shoulders
Buffy looks up at her boyfriend "Lets see the ex meeting the present."
"Why does that make you nervous?"
"Riley you've got to understand Angel is and always will be one of my best friends. He's as important to me as Willow, Xander and Giles. He's a big part of my life"
"I understand. I'm not standing in the way of your friendship" Riley says as the elevator doors open.
"Cordy" Buffy calls seeing the brunette sitting in the waiting room.
"Buffy" she says standing
Buffy goes to Cordelia hugging her. "Where is he?"
"He's with Brie." Cordelia answers looking at Riley "Hi I'm Cordelia"
"Riley" nods the soldier
"Riley why don't you stay out here" Buffy suggests
Riley nods "Sure"
"They're in room 107" Cordelia tells her
Buffy nods heading down the hallway she finds room 107. She stands in the doorway watching Angel as he reads to the little girl. "Angel" she says softly
Angel looks up "Buffy"
Buffy walks closer to the bed "How is she?"
"Still hasn't woken up" he replies "How'd you get here?"
"Riley brought me" she answers
"What?" Angel demands
"I needed a ride. Spike's disappeared. Mom's out of town. Giles' car wouldn't make it here and Xander's is in the shop. He was the only one able to bring me" she explains. "What happened?" she asks looking down at the still child
"Brie went to a movie and dinner with Molly and Vincent. They must have been on their way to drop Brie off when the car was broadsided by another. Kate came across the accident and called Cordelia"
"How bad was she hurt?" Buffy asks
"Head injury mostly. Some bruises and cuts. They thought she was injured more severely but I think her injuries healed"
"Then why hasn't she woken up? I mean if she does heal that quick"
Angel shrugs "I'm not sure."
Buffy sits on the edge of the bed stroking Briena's cheek with her fingertips "We could have lost her Angel. We could have lost our baby"
Angel touches her cheek "We didn't"
"We could have" she repeats tilting into his touch. She looks at him her eyes tearing up "what if she doesn't wake up?" she wonders "we could still lose her"
"Buffy" he starts crouching before her "baby Briena will wake up. We have years to spend with her."
Buffy blinks back her tears "You will. I probably have only five years with her. I won't be around to see her grow up."
"You'll be around to see her grow up" he assures "I promise"
"You always make big promises. Face it Angel I won't be alive when she starts high school."
"Yes you will" Angel insists
Buffy stands moving away from him "Will you stop making promises that you know you can't keep." she says angrily
Angel looks at his hands "I'm serious Buff. This is a promise I won't break"
Buffy glares at him "You said that before. And gee look where we are!"
"Buffy I did what was for the best" he argues
"Did you?" she demands "Or did you do what was best for you?"
"What is that supposed to mean?"
"You left me after promising that you wouldn't" she reminds
Angel stands his fists clenching "You think I wanted to?" he growls "I want nothing more to spend my life with you and Briena... our daughter. The child no one ever thought we could have. But that won't happen not right now. Maybe not ever. I did what was for the best not only for us but for everyone." he pauses pacing the room "I wanted you happy and right now the only way that'll happen is if we aren't together."
"But I'm not" she says her voice raised angrily
In the hallway Riley and Cordelia hear Buffy speak her voice raised. "Oh great now their fighting" Cordelia sighs
"Don't you think we should do something?" Riley asks nervously
Doyle looks up from his reading "No. I'd stay out of it"
"Why?"
Cordelia changes the page of her magazine "We learned in high school to stay away from those two when their like this."
"Does this happen often?"
"Only when Angel is bothered by something. Buffy usually gets him to change his mind. After all she got him to show up at Prom" Cordelia shrugs
Angel stares at her "Why not?" he asks "You have a normal life along with a normal boyfriend." he says bitterly "What's not to be happy about"
"What's not to be happy about?!" she cries "Want me to list them?" she looks at him then at Briena "I miss having you around. Having someone to talk to"
"You have Riley" Angel reminds bitterly
"Its not the same." she looks at the wall "He tries to understand the fact that this is who I am but he doesn't. He can't understand that this is never going away. I don't love him Angel... I can't" she whispers
"Yet your with him" Angel points out
Buffy looks at him slowly moving closer she stops a foot away "He's a nice guy but he's not the one I love. Everyone thinks that me having a normal boyfriend automatically equals happiness. It doesn't. It sometimes equals fear. Other times guilt."
"Why?"
Buffy sighs looking at Angel "He's not you Angel." she whispers "he's not you"
"No matter how much we want to be together we can't. Its too tempting." he looks at Briena "What if we did get back together? Do we want to risk putting her in the line of fire?" he sits on the edge of the bed resting his hand on Briena's chest feeling the heart beat steadily "I miss you too Buffy. More everyday." he looks up at her as she moves closer then looks at Briena "Sometimes Briena gives me look that reminds me of you. Sometimes when she's drawing or coloring she'll get the same thoughtful you used to get when I watched you study."
"Angel" she whispers "Brie deserves the chance to have a somewhat normal family."
"How are we supposed to do that Buffy?" he demands
"I don't know." she admits "We need to give it a chance Angel... for her maybe in a way for us"
"Buffy"
"She deserves it Angel."
"She does I know that." Angel agrees "But what about the risks Buffy?"
he stands "do we want to risk her life and countless others?" Angel demands "I don't want either of you to get hurt." he walks out of the room
Cordelia, Doyle and Riley look up as they hear footsteps coming towards them "Damn it Angel you always do this" Buffy says angrily grabbing his arm forcing him to look at her. "You always walk away"
"I can't Buffy" he replies reaching out he touches the scar on her neck. "No matter how much I want to I can't put her in danger" he says dropping his hand "I can't put you in danger" he whispers
"You know that no matter what we are in danger. From what we are"
"Uh guys what is going on?" Cordelia interrupts
"Angel" Buffy pleads
In Briena's room the little girl slowly opens her eyes. Rubbing her eyes tiredly she winces from the pain in her side. Carefully she sits up looking around the room she grabs her stuffed dog getting out of the bed she slowly walks to the door curious about the familiar voices. Rubbing her eyes tiredly she sees Angel and Buffy talking. "Daddy. Mommy" she calls sleepily
Angel and Buffy turn around to see the little girl tiredly rubbing her eyes. They go over to Briena crouching before her "Sweetie what are you doing out of bed?" Buffy asks smoothing a strand of hair out of Briena's face.
Briena sticks her thumb in her mouth "Uh dunno" she shrugs.
Angel stands holding his hand to Briena "Come on baby girl back to bed."
Briena slips her hand into his then smiles sleepily at Buffy over her shoulder.
"I'll be in to see you in a little bit" Buffy says
" 'kay Mommy" she yawns following Angel into the room
"Buffy what the hell is going on?" Riley demands his voice raising
Buffy turns to look at her boyfriend "Riley calm down. Lets go talk in the stairwell" Buffy suggests
"Fine" Riley agrees following her into the stairwell. He looks at Buffy his face a mixture of anger, hurt, and confusion. "What's going on Buffy? Why did she call you Mommy?"
"Riley sit down" Buffy suggests
Riley does "Buffy I'm confused."
"Riley I didn't tell you everything about my relationship with Angel"
"Oh really" he says drily
She glares at him "I guess I should have told you the truth but I thought it was for the best if I didn't tell you."
"What?"
Buffy rubs her hands on her pants nervously "Angel and I were lovers and Briena is my daughter"
"What?!" Riley exclaims
"I'm Briena's mother"
"How is that possible? She's 4 years old"
"Its a long story" Buffy sighs
"You told me you met Angel when you were 16. She can't be your daughter she's too old."
"She is Riley" Buffy insists "I can't explain it to you."
"Why not?" he demands "Don't you trust me Buffy? How could you not trust me with this?!"
"I can't explain its too complicated."
"What's so complicated?"
"Who we are" she replies "Riley she's my daughter. I am not going to let the Initiative test her"
"Why do you think they would?"
"She's special Riley. That's all I can tell you" Buffy says going to the door "If the Initiative goes after her Riley I won't let them take her. Neither will Angel." Buffy walks away leaving Riley standing in the stairwell.
Cordelia watches as Buffy exits the stairwell without Riley "Something tells me those two are over" she mutters to the half demon
Buffy stops in the doorway watching Angel and Briena as they talk.
"Daddy Molly and Vincent are dead aren't they?"
"Yes little one they died"
Briena nods laying her head on his shoulder "Jack's taking care of them just like he took care of me"
Angel kisses her head "Yes he is"
Briena notices Buffy standing in the doorway watching them "Hi Mommy" she smiles
Buffy smiles back "Hi baby girl" she joins them
"Mr Kelin" the doctor greets entering the room
Angel looks up "Doctor Richardson" he nods "Buffy this is Doctor Richardson. Doctor Richardson this is Briena's mother Buffy Summers"
"Miss Summers" he nods
Briena looks up at the newcomer tiredly "I wanna go home" she yawns
The Doctor chuckles "Don't like hospitals I take it"
Angel looks at Buffy "She takes after her mother on that one"
Buffy rolls her eyes "She takes after me on the one thing I hate most"
"Most kids are scared of hospitals" the doctor says to Briena
"Not scared" she insists "I want to go home."
"How do you feel Briena?"
"Fine."
"Does your head hurt?"
Briena shakes her head "No"
"Do you hurt anywhere?"
Briena shakes her head again moving closer to Angel
"Miss Summers Mr Kelin may I speak to you outside?" the doctor requests
Angel nods trying to lift Briena off his lap sighing as the little girl protests "Brie baby we'll be right outside."
"How about we send Cordy and Doyle in to keep you company" Buffy suggests
Briena shrugs "OK"
"We'll be right back" Angel promises moving the little girl to the bed
Buffy and Angel follow the doctor out of the room "Cordy Doyle Brie wants to see you" Angel tells them. Cordelia and Doyle head into the room.
"Is something wrong with Briena?" Buffy demands
"No she's fine. I want to keep her here for a day so I can keep an eye on her. Just to be on the safe side."
"All right" Angel agrees
"You can stay with her if you'd like" the doctor tells them
"Thanks" Buffy nods
"I'll check on her in a few hours. If you need me the nurses can reach me."
Angel his eyes on Buffy nods "Sure"
The Doctor nods leaving Buffy and Angel alone. Buffy moves to the chairs sitting down leaning her head against the wall. Angel sits beside her. Buffy reaches over slipping her hand into his. "I miss you Angel"
"I want to give it a try Buffy." he whispers
"What?!" she says startled looking at him
He touches her cheek "I love you Buffy. I never stopped."
"I love you Angel." she leans into his touch "How are we going to do this? We live two hours apart. I can't move here and its too dangerous for you and Brie to move to Sunnydale right now"
"I don't know baby. We'll figure it out" he leans closer kissing her gently "It'll be hard baby"
"I know but she's worth it" she smiles "she's our baby Angel giving her this chance no matter how hard it is is worth it."
Angel kisses her forehead "Come on we better go save our baby from those two" he stands holding Buffy's hand they enter the hospital room. "Doyle Cordy why don't you two head home" Angel suggests
"See you later Monkey" Doyle says
"Bye Doyle. Bye Cordy" Briena yawns
"Bye you" Cordelia grins "Don't forget that if you see any cute doctors let me know"
"Cordy you are not using Briena to find a boyfriend" Angel groans
"Hey she's cute and funny no one can resist her why not?" Cordelia shrugs heading out the door
"Princess you can't use her to hit on guys" Doyle says
"Oh come on when you take her to the park your telling me you never use her cuteness to pick up babysitters?"
"No" Doyle retorts
Angel and Buffy roll their eyes at each other "See what I deal with" Angel chuckles
"Hey I deal with Xander, Anya and Spike" Buffy reminds
"Daddy" Briena demands
"What baby girl?" Angel answers
"Tell me a story" she demands holding out her arms
Angel picks her up "What kind of story?" he asks sitting down on the recliner he pulls Buffy onto his lap
Briena sighs laying her head on his shoulder she yawns "Tell me about when you and Mommy met" she requests
Angel looks at Buffy and smiles "How about I tell you about the first time I ever saw your Mommy?"
" 'kay"
"Well it begin when I was still in New York almost six years ago" he begins
**** Fifteen minutes later ****
"And at that time I promised myself that I'd protect her at all costs" he finishes his eyes on Buffy
"She's asleep" Buffy whispers leaning her head against his
"I know" he replies hugging Buffy close. "Sometimes I just feel like holding her after she falls asleep." he admits shyly
"She's looks so much like you" Buffy states awed reaching out she traces Briena's features. "She has your nose. Sometimes when I look in her eyes its kinda like looking into yours."
"She has quirks that remind me of you. When she wants something she'll give me this pouting look like you give me."
"So she looks like you and has little things that are like me"
"She's part of both of us. The best parts"
"Yes she is the best of us. She's our miracle"
"That she is" he agrees
Buffy leans forward kissing him tenderly
"Not that I'm complaining but what was that for?"
"For everything." she smiles "I always knew you'd be a great Dad."
"Your a great Mom" Angel says
Buffy yawns "Thanks"
"Get some sleep baby" Angel whispers
Buffy moves her head to his shoulder "I love you my Angel"
"I love you Buffy"
Part 25
**** Sunnydale- Riley's Dorm: Next Morning ****
"Hey Iowa" Forrest calls knocking on the door
"What" Riley calls
Forrest opens the door to find his friend sitting at his desk staring at the wall "Hey man what's the deal?"
Riley looks at his friend "Nothing. What do you want?"
"Walsh wants to see you" Forrest answers
"Not now" Riley snaps
Forrest sits down "What's wrong man? I thought that Summers would be here."
Riley leans forward looking at his hands "She's in LA. A friend was in an accident"
"The ex?" Forrest questions
"The daughter" Riley answers
"And she went to comfort the ex" Forrest states
Riley shrugs "I don't know."
"She left you man" Forrest remarks "I knew she'd do something like that" he shakes his head
Riley looks at Forrest "Its just there's something off about the guy. Buffy never spoke about him. All I knew was that he left her and it hurt her."
"So she left you for him"
"I don't really know. We didn't really talk about it."
"What's this guy like?"
"He's the tall, dark and mysterious type. Like I said there's something off about him"
"What does he do?"
"He's a private investigator of some sort" Riley answers with a shrug
"So are you going to check this guy out?" Forrest asks
"No" Riley shakes his head "I made Buffy a promise that I wouldn't invade Angel's privacy."
"Why'd you do that?" Forrest demands
"She asked me to. She said that Angel is very protective of his daughter" 'their daughter' he thinks bitterly
"Come on man aren't you curious?" Forrest inquires
"I am but I made a promise"
"Whatever man" Forrest sighs standing "Check ya later man"
"Tell Walsh I'll be there in a while"
"Sure Ri later" Forrest says leaving the room. Once outside the room Forrest stares at the door thoughtfully 'I'm curious about this ex boyfriend. Let's see what he's hiding' Forrest heads down to the underground Initiative.
**** LA: The hospital ****
"Buffy" Angel whispers stroking her hair
"Huh?" she yawns
"I need to get home" he whispers
Buffy opens her eyes smiling as she looks into the familiar brown eyes "Morning"
"Morning beloved" he smiles kissing her
"What did you say about going home?" she yawns
"Its almost light out" he nods at the window
"Oh" she sighs standing she stretches her arms over her head. She smiles at the sight of the sleeping little girl "Here" she carefully starts to move Briena from Angel's arms
"No" Briena whimpers in protest clutching Angel's shirt
"Its OK sweetie" Buffy assures
"Mommy" Briena sighs relaxing at the sound of the familiar voice.
Buffy cradles the little girl close watching as Angel stands "so see you tonight?"
Angel nods pulling on his jacket "I'll be back at nightfall" he promises
"Hey your forgetting something"
"What?" He asks
Buffy pouts "You can't walk out without giving us a goodbye kiss"
Angel smiles kissing Briena's head. "One down" he whispers against Buffy's lips kissing her gently
"I love you" Buffy sighs before deepening the kiss
"I love you too" he says breaking the kiss. "I'll see you later" he pulls away. "Oh here" he reaches into his pocket pulling out his keys "You might need these. I'm going in through the sewer so I won't need these" he kisses her again
"All right" she says as she watches Angel walk out of the room. Carefully she lays Briena on the bed slipping off her own shoes she lays beside the little girl.
**** Three hours later ****
"Wake up" Briena says shaking Buffy gently
"What's wrong baby girl?" Buffy asks opening her eyes
Briena grins "Nothing"
Buffy shakes her head "Then why did you wake me up?"
"I dunno" the child shrugs looking around "Where's Daddy?"
"He had to get home"
"Why?"
Buffy props her head up on her hand "Because he didn't want to risk getting caught in the sunlight"
"Oh"
The door opens "Buffy"
Buffy looks over to see her mother entering the room "Mom what are you doing here?"
"Willow called me and told me what happened" Joyce answers putting her purse down "Briena honey are you OK?" Joyce asks the little girl
Briena nods looking at Buffy "Can I watch TV?"
"Sure baby girl" Buffy hands the little girl the remote control once the little girl's attention is on the TV Buffy turns to her mother "Mom you didn't need to cut your trip short"
"Buffy I wanted to. How's she doing?"
"She had a few bruises and cuts. She was unconcious for a few hours." Buffy answers looking at the little girl
"She was lucky then"
"Yes she was." Buffy looks at her mother "The doctor thought that she was more severely injured when she came in. Angel thinks that her healing ability helped."
"How'd you get here?" Joyce questions
Buffy looks at Briena and then her hands "I talked Riley into driving me here. Spike was out of town and no one else was able to bring me."
"What happened?"
"He heard Briena call me Mommy. After that I had to explain"
"So he knows?" Joyce asks
"Not all of it."
"What does he know?"
"That I'm Brie's mother. I didn't explain the whole Angel is a vampire with a soul thing. Or how Briena is four years old when Angel and I've only known each other for 3 years. Or the whole fact that she wasn't technically born."
"Are you going to tell him all that?"
"No" Buffy says firmly "When he found out about Spike he flipped out. If he found out about Briena and Angel I have no idea how he'd react or what he'd do"
"I take it you two broke up" Joyce states
"We didn't say it but yes I guess we did. Its for the best"
Joyce nods hugging her daughter "Honey I'm sorry I know you liked him"
"Mom I liked him as a friend. I never loved him" Buffy says "I've only loved Angel."
"I know honey."
Buffy looks at Briena "Mom Angel and I have talked and" she pauses
"Your getting back together" Joyce finishes
Buffy looks at her mother and nods "We thought we'd give it a chance. Not just for Brie's sake but ours."
"Honey are you sure?"
Buffy smiles faintly "We're sure. Its going to be hard but she's worth it. I've missed him Mom."
"Honey I know I haven't been very supportive of your relationship with Angel in the past but I'm going to be now. I know how important he is to you."
"He is." Buffy smiles "But she's more important"
Joyce and Buffy look over at the little girl "What are you planning to do? Are they moving to Sunnydale? Or are you moving to LA?"
Buffy shakes her head "We haven't decided. We know I can't move here and they can't move to Sunnydale"
"Buffy what about the whole clause thing?" Joyce asks
"Mom I know your worried about the whole sex thing. We can control ourselves" she insists "we have too"
"I want you to be happy sweetie"
"I am Mom. He makes me happy"
"I know honey"
"Everything will be fine Mom." she looks at Briena "I'm where I belong"
**** That Afternoon ****
"Miss Summers" the Doctor greets entering the room
"Hi Doctor Richardson" Buffy greets looking up from her drawing with Briena "Mom this is Doctor Richardson. Doctor Richardson this is my mother Joyce Summers" she introduces
"Hello" Joyce nods
"Mrs Summers." acknowledges the doctor
"Can I go home now?" Briena demands
"Actually thats why I'm here" the doctor grins at the little girl "You really want to go home huh?"
"Yes" Briena nods happily "I want my toys and my room."
"Is she in good enough condition to go home?" Joyce questions
"She's healthy enough" the doctor assures
"I want to go home" Briena demands
"All right then. I'll have the nurse bring in the discharge papers and some clothes and you can take her home"
"Yeah" Briena says happily
Buffy laughs "How about we call Daddy and let him know?"
Briena frowns looking at the clock "Daddy's sleeping"
"Somehow I doubt he's getting much sleep" Buffy sighs
"OK lets call Daddy"
Buffy smiles picking up the phone she dials the familiar number
"Hello" Angel greets
"How did I know you wouldn't be asleep?" Buffy muses
"Hey what's going on?"
"Brie has something to tell you" Buffy informs him
"All right" he says
Buffy hands Briena the phone "Hi Daddy" she greets
"Hey baby girl what did you want to tell me?"
"I get to come home" she says happily
"That's great. Can I talk to Mommy?"
"Sure" Briena hands Buffy the phone "Wants to talk to you" she jumps off the bed
Buffy watches as Briena explores the room "Hey"
"What did the doctor say?" he asks
"Said she's fine." Buffy watches as the nurse enters the room with a clipboard and some clothes. Buffy takes the clipboard
"Come on Brie time to get dressed" Joyce calls
"Uh I take it your Mom's there" Angel sighs
"Yeah Willow got a hold of her somehow. She's been here for a while"
"I don't want to" Briena replies
"Briena the faster you get dressed the sooner you get to go home" Joyce reminds
"Oh OK" she grumbles
"I take it Brie's being difficult" Angel groans
"Of course. She takes after you on that" Buffy laughs
"Hey that's you not me"
"OK we'll be there in an hour or so. We're going to stop off and do some quick shopping. I need something to wear. Need us to pick up anything?"
"Uh just a sec"
Buffy listens as he moves around the room
"damn it Cordy what did I tell you about leaving towels on my chair?!"
"Sorry" she apologizes
"What?" Buffy questions
"She left a wet towel on my chair" Angel complains
"Poor baby"
Angel opens the refridgerator scanning it "Can you pick up some milk"
"Sure" Buffy agrees
"I don't want to wear shoes" Briena complains
"Brie come on just put on your shoes" Joyce requests
"No" she pouts "Don't want to"
"I better go. Go back to bed." Buffy orders
"All right I'll see you later" Angel says hanging up
"Briena" Buffy calls
"Uh oh" Briena says her eyes wide "I'm sorry" she apologizes
Buffy goes over to the little girl picking her up she puts her on the bed. "Come on baby girl you need to put on your shoes."
"I don't want to" Briena complains
"You have to." Buffy insists
"NO" Briena shakes her head
Buffy watches as the little girl's eyes flash gold "Briena calm down."
"I don't want to wear those shoes" Briena pouts
Knowing the little girl won't put the shoes on with out a fight Buffy puts the shoes down "All right you don't have to"
"Buffy you can't just give in to her demands." Joyce admonishes
Buffy picks up the shoeless child "Mom there is no way I'd get her into those shoes without a fight. This isn't the place for her to get mad."
Buffy shifts the little girl in her arms
"Momma I need Mr Doggie" Briena demands
Buffy picks up the stuffed dog handing it to her daughter "Here baby"
"Thank you Momma" Briena smiles laying her head on Buffy's shoulder
"So where too?" Joyce asks following Buffy out of the door
Buffy hands the clipboard to the nurse "I thought we'd go shopping 'cuz I need some clothes and pick up some milk first but I think she is too tired to last"
"Mommy can we go home?" Briena yawns
"Sure sweetie"
"Why don't we take her back to the apartment and then do some quick shopping" Joyce suggests leading the two out of the hospital to the parking lot.
"I think that's a good idea" Buffy agrees
**** Fifteen minutes later ****
Buffy opens the door to the apartment and Briena races past her. "Brie where are you going?"
"See Daddy" she calls racing into Angel's room. As she is about to jump on the bed Buffy grabs her. Briena wiggles in protest "Down"
"Shh Daddy's sleeping."
Angel listens as the two women in his life talk. He opens his eyes watching as the two talk. "Not anymore" Angel says
Buffy turns around trying to hide a smile "Your supposed to be sleeping" she admonishes
Angel shrugs sitting up "I thought you were going shopping"
Buffy smiles looking over her bare chested lover "We are. She's getting grumpy" she looks at the tired child
"Oh really?" Angel smiles
Briena holds out her arms to Angel "Hi Daddy"
Angel takes the little girl from Buffy's arms "Hey baby girl"
Briena curls close to Angel her thumb in her mouth she sighs happily content to be in her father's arms
"Mom and I will be back in a while."
Angel nods "There's some money in the drawer of desk in the living room" he tells
"OK" she sits beside Angel kissing Briena's head "I'll see you later baby girl"
Briena nods sleepily " 'kay"
Buffy smiles at Angel "Get some sleep" she tells him. At his nod she kisses him lightly. Standing she heads out the bedroom door to find her mother waiting in the kitchen "Just a sec Mom" she goes to the desk opening the drawer she finds an envelope and counting out enough money for groceries she closes the drawer and joins her mother in the kitchen.
"Ready honey?" Joyce asks
Buffy nods grabbing the keys off the counter she follows her mother out the door locking it behind her. Once in the car she turns to her mother "I just realized that if I'm going to have to tell Dad about Briena"
"That might be a good idea" Joyce agrees starting the car
Buffy groans "He's not going to take this very well"
"Honey your father doesn't take anything very well" Joyce says drily
"How well do you think he's going to take the whole age difference thing?"
Joyce shakes her head "Not well"
"Great. How do you think he'll take to the whole having a granddaughter part?"
"That is a very good question"
**** An hour later: the apartment ****
Angel leaves the bathroom wearing pants and an undershirt as he dries his hair with a towel. He smiles at the sight of Briena sprawled out in his bed asleep. He heads into the kitchen where he takes out the container of blood pouring some into a mug.
"Daddy" Briena says tugging lightly on Angel's pant leg
Angel looks down to see Briena looking up at him "Yes Briena?"
Briena hugs his leg "Love you Daddy"
"Love you too baby girl" he picks Briena up. "Did you have a good sleep baby?" he asks as he puts his mug in the microwave
"Uh huh" she nods laying her head on his shoulder as she plays with the small golden cross around his neck "Where's Mommy?"
Angel takes the mug out of the microwave "She and Joyce went shopping." he answers taking a drink
"Daddy can I have a cookie?"
Angel puts the mug down on the counter "I don't know if there are any left. But lets see" he opens the cabinet where he finds some cookies. "You're in luck my girl Cordy didn't eat them all" he hands her a cookie
"I resent that" Cordelia says entering the kitchen
"Did you finish the filing?" Angel asks
"Yep" she nods
"Thanks."
"Hi Cordy" Briena smiles
"Hey you" Cordelia smiles back "I'm outta here. Do you need me to babysit tonight?"
"No" Angel shakes his head "If I need anyone too I'll call Doyle."
"All right. I'm outta here"
"Bye Cordy" Briena waves
"Bye Briena" she calls heading out of the apartment
A few moments after Cordelia leaves the phone rings "Hello?" Angel answers
"Hey Angel its Willow is Buffy there?"
"Hey Will. No Buffy's out shopping with her mother." Angel answers shifting Briena in his arms
"Oh. How's Briena?" Willow inquires
"She's fine. They let her come home a while ago"
"That's great."
Angel looks towards the door "Buffy's back"
The door opens and in walk Buffy and Joyce "Hey you two" Buffy greets
"Its Willow" Angel tells her
"Oooh" Buffy says happily putting the bags down she takes the phone from Angel kissing his cheek "Hey Will" she greets
Seeing the department store bags Angel chuckles "Brie it looks like your mother bought out the store again"
"You know Buffy she can't go to the mall without buying things she needs and things she wants." Joyce laughs
"I know. That's why I avoid shopping with her" Angel laughs
Briena wiggles in Angel's arms "Daddy I want to go draw"
"Later sweetie you need a bath first"
"No" she shakes her head
"Yes" Angel insists
"NO"
"YES"
Buffy returns to the kitchen to hear Angel and Briena arguing. "Angel phone... its Kate"
"Can you two deal with her?" he asks standing he hands Briena to Buffy taking the phone "Your taking the bath" he tells Briena firmly
Joyce and Buffy take the little girl out of the kitchen. "Come on Brie the faster you take it the faster its over with" Buffy reminds
"Hi Kate" he greets
"Sounds like someone's not happy" Kate says
"Yeah Brie hates taking a bath"
"Glad to hear she's out of the hospital"
"So are we"
"Um I thought I'd let you know I got a strange phone call asking about you."
Hearing that Angel is startled "What was it about?"
"He just asked about you. I didn't tell him anything."
"Thanks. Did you get a name?"
"Uh" Angel hears Kate shift through some papers. "Jonathon Frighman"
"Doesn't sound familiar" Angel states "thanks Kate"
"Sure. I'll see what I can find out about this guy and I'll let you know"
"Thanks but something tells me that name is an alias. You won't find anything on him. If you do it'll be the wrong guy"
"I agree but I'll see what I can find anyway."
Angel turns around to see Buffy standing in the doorway "All right then I'll talk to you later. Thanks Kate" he says hanging up
"What's going on Angel?" Buffy asks
"Nothing" he lies sitting down
Buffy looks at him "You never were very good at lying" she states moving closer she sits on his lap "What's going on?" she demands
Angel looks at her then takes her hand in his "Nothing you need to worry about"
"Spill" she orders
"Kate said someone called about me. Asking questions"
"Who?"
"Some guy named Jonathon Frighman"
"Possible client?" she asks hopefully
"I don't think so."
"Why not?" Buffy asks
"Few people know what I do. Those that do are usually part of the demon community or something. Very few know to talk with Kate. Something about this is off"
Buffy sees the thoughtful look on his face "You don't think its Riley do you?"
"Buffy" he sighs "the fact that he knows your the Slayer and that you are Briena's mother."
"So he doesn't know that your a vampire. I never told him much about you or our relationship."
"Buffy what did you tell him?"
"Not much. Why?" Buffy asks
"Daddy Mommy" Briena calls racing into the kitchen
"We'll finish this later" Angel promises
"No now" Buffy says she gets off his lap picking up Briena she carries the little girl into the livingroom "Mom"
Joyce walks out of the bathroom drying off her hands "Yes?"
"Brie why don't you go play in your room" Buffy puts Briena down
" 'kay" she agrees heading into her bedroom
"We're going upstairs to talk"
"OK I'll see what I can do about dinner" Joyce replies
Buffy nods heading into the kitchen she finds Angel staring at the wall absently "earth to Angel" she calls
Angel looks up smiling faintly "All right" he stands heading into the elevator with Buffy. Once upstairs they sit on the couch. Angel looks at Buffy then lifting his hand to her face he moves her hair out of her face. "Buffy are you sure that you can trust him?"
Buffy nods "He gave me his word. He's a farmboy and soldier that combination is reliable"
"I trust you Buffy but I can't trust him."
"I know"
"How'd your mother take the news?"
Buffy shrugs "Pretty good. She took it better than everyonce else will. Xander and Giles are going to flip. Willow will take it better than them. Oz and Tara will be neutral. Overall the one who will take it worse will be my father"
"We're gonna have to tell him won't we" he groans
"Yes we will." she insists
Angel swears under his breath.
Buffy rolls her eyes "My father isn't that bad."
"All father's are bad when it comes to their daughters" Angel sighs "I doubt they've changed in 220 odd years. Are we going to tell him everything?"
Buffy shrugs "I don't know. What do you think? Should we?"
"I don't know. We have time to decide"
"We should do it soon"
"Next weekend"
"Sure"
After about an hour Buffy and Angel head back downstairs to find Joyce and Briena in the kitchen. "Briena can you put away your papers" Joyce requests
" 'kay" she nods picking up her papers and pens she takes them into the livingroom.
"In your room" Angel calls
"OK"
The door opens "Angel my man is there any aspirin?" Doyle demands
Angel looks up to see the half-demon "Check the bathroom"
"I had a major head splitting vision" Doyle complains heading into the bathroom
"What was it?" Angel asks
"There's no aspirin" Doyle complains
"You must have finished it off" Angel replies
Joyce looks up from her stirring "Buffy why don't you get the aspirin out of my purse for Doyle"
"Sure" Buffy grabs her mother's purse finding the aspirin bottle she calls "heads up" she tosses it to Doyle
"Thanks" Doyle says opening the bottle
"What was the vision?" Angel asks
"Some guy on the southside near the warehouse district is going to be attacked by a group of demons"
"When?"
"I don't know. Sometime tonight"
Within minutes Angel is out of the apartment through the sewers.
**** Five hours later ****
Angel enters the apartment through the sewers. He finds Buffy and Briena asleep on the couch. Smiling he removes his jacket hanging it up
"Hey" Buffy greets sleepily "What time is it?"
"Midnight" he answers sitting beside Buffy "Where's your Mom?"
"Went back to Sunnydale" she yawns leaning against Angel "She left around 9"
Angel kisses the top of her head. "Why don't you go to bed" he suggests "You must be exhausted"
"I am" she admits "so was she" she looks at Briena
"I'll put her down" Angel offers
"No I got it" Buffy replies standing she carries Briena into her bedroom. "Night sweetie" she sais kissing the little girl's forehead. She leaves the room pulling the door partially shut behind her. She finds Angel browsing the bookcase. "What are you doing?" she asks
Angel looks at her "I've got some work to do" he answers
"Need some help?" Buffy asks
"No thanks. Get some sleep"
Buffy looks at Angel "I'll see you in the morning"
Angel nods absently
Shaking her head Buffy heads into the bedroom removing her shoes and jeans she crawls into the bed. Sighing happily at the familiar scent of Angel 'I'm where I belong' she thinks closing her eyes
A few hours later Buffy wakes up to the sound of crying. "Briena" she realizes sitting up she scrambles out of bed. Going to Angel's closet she grabs one of his shirts buttoning it up. She heads out of the bedroom to find Angel holding the little girl. "What happened?" she asks worried
Angel looks up to see Buffy "She had a bad dream" he answers rubbing Briena's back soothingly
Buffy sits beside Angel "Oh Briena"
Briena's sobs calm down to hiccups cuddling close to Angel calmed by the rumbling purr coming from Angel.
Buffy smiles at the comforting sound laying her head against his shoulder. "She likes when you do that"
"It calms her"
"Mmm" Buffy sighs sleepily "I like it too" she yawns
Angel leans his head against Buffy's closing his eyes he follows them into sleep.
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 24
**** Two hours later ****
Riley pulls into the hospital parking lot "Buffy" he says reaching over he lightly shakes the sleeping Slayer
"Riley" she mutters
"We're here" he announces
Buffy opens her eyes alert she looks around "Thanks Riley" she says unbuckling her seatbelt she starts to open the passenger door.
"I'm coming with you" Riley announces
"What?" Buffy says turning to look at her boyfriend surprised "You don't need to come up"
"I want to." Riley says unbuckling his seatbelt "Unless you don't want me to"
"Um its not that. Its just I thought that you had class tomorrow."
"I do but I can miss it"
Buffy nods reluctantly "Look before we go in there's something I should warn you about"
"What?" Riley asks
Buffy looks at the sandyhaired college student "Angel might seem to be cold and rude but he's not. He's just a little reserved around people he doesn't know. He's also very protective of Briena and his friends."
Riley nods "All right. Anything else?"
"Riley I need you to promise me that you will respect Angel's privacy towards Briena and himself."
Riley nods "I promise. What's the big deal about his privacy?"
"Like I said he's reserved." she shrugs getting out of the car.
Riley takes her hand "I promise I will be on my best behavior" he grins
"Riley that's all I ask" Buffy smiles greatfully as they enter the hospital they stop at the nurses desk "Hi" Buffy greets the nurse
"Can I help you?" the nurse asks
"I'm looking for a patient named Briena Kelin?" Buffy requests
The nurse types in the name "Oh yes. She's on the pediatric floor"
Buffy nods "Thank you" she says heading towards the elevator. She stands there rocking on her heels
"What's got you so nervous?" Riley asks placing his arm around her shoulders
Buffy looks up at her boyfriend "Lets see the ex meeting the present."
"Why does that make you nervous?"
"Riley you've got to understand Angel is and always will be one of my best friends. He's as important to me as Willow, Xander and Giles. He's a big part of my life"
"I understand. I'm not standing in the way of your friendship" Riley says as the elevator doors open.
"Cordy" Buffy calls seeing the brunette sitting in the waiting room.
"Buffy" she says standing
Buffy goes to Cordelia hugging her. "Where is he?"
"He's with Brie." Cordelia answers looking at Riley "Hi I'm Cordelia"
"Riley" nods the soldier
"Riley why don't you stay out here" Buffy suggests
Riley nods "Sure"
"They're in room 107" Cordelia tells her
Buffy nods heading down the hallway she finds room 107. She stands in the doorway watching Angel as he reads to the little girl. "Angel" she says softly
Angel looks up "Buffy"
Buffy walks closer to the bed "How is she?"
"Still hasn't woken up" he replies "How'd you get here?"
"Riley brought me" she answers
"What?" Angel demands
"I needed a ride. Spike's disappeared. Mom's out of town. Giles' car wouldn't make it here and Xander's is in the shop. He was the only one able to bring me" she explains. "What happened?" she asks looking down at the still child
"Brie went to a movie and dinner with Molly and Vincent. They must have been on their way to drop Brie off when the car was broadsided by another. Kate came across the accident and called Cordelia"
"How bad was she hurt?" Buffy asks
"Head injury mostly. Some bruises and cuts. They thought she was injured more severely but I think her injuries healed"
"Then why hasn't she woken up? I mean if she does heal that quick"
Angel shrugs "I'm not sure."
Buffy sits on the edge of the bed stroking Briena's cheek with her fingertips "We could have lost her Angel. We could have lost our baby"
Angel touches her cheek "We didn't"
"We could have" she repeats tilting into his touch. She looks at him her eyes tearing up "what if she doesn't wake up?" she wonders "we could still lose her"
"Buffy" he starts crouching before her "baby Briena will wake up. We have years to spend with her."
Buffy blinks back her tears "You will. I probably have only five years with her. I won't be around to see her grow up."
"You'll be around to see her grow up" he assures "I promise"
"You always make big promises. Face it Angel I won't be alive when she starts high school."
"Yes you will" Angel insists
Buffy stands moving away from him "Will you stop making promises that you know you can't keep." she says angrily
Angel looks at his hands "I'm serious Buff. This is a promise I won't break"
Buffy glares at him "You said that before. And gee look where we are!"
"Buffy I did what was for the best" he argues
"Did you?" she demands "Or did you do what was best for you?"
"What is that supposed to mean?"
"You left me after promising that you wouldn't" she reminds
Angel stands his fists clenching "You think I wanted to?" he growls "I want nothing more to spend my life with you and Briena... our daughter. The child no one ever thought we could have. But that won't happen not right now. Maybe not ever. I did what was for the best not only for us but for everyone." he pauses pacing the room "I wanted you happy and right now the only way that'll happen is if we aren't together."
"But I'm not" she says her voice raised angrily
In the hallway Riley and Cordelia hear Buffy speak her voice raised. "Oh great now their fighting" Cordelia sighs
"Don't you think we should do something?" Riley asks nervously
Doyle looks up from his reading "No. I'd stay out of it"
"Why?"
Cordelia changes the page of her magazine "We learned in high school to stay away from those two when their like this."
"Does this happen often?"
"Only when Angel is bothered by something. Buffy usually gets him to change his mind. After all she got him to show up at Prom" Cordelia shrugs
Angel stares at her "Why not?" he asks "You have a normal life along with a normal boyfriend." he says bitterly "What's not to be happy about"
"What's not to be happy about?!" she cries "Want me to list them?" she looks at him then at Briena "I miss having you around. Having someone to talk to"
"You have Riley" Angel reminds bitterly
"Its not the same." she looks at the wall "He tries to understand the fact that this is who I am but he doesn't. He can't understand that this is never going away. I don't love him Angel... I can't" she whispers
"Yet your with him" Angel points out
Buffy looks at him slowly moving closer she stops a foot away "He's a nice guy but he's not the one I love. Everyone thinks that me having a normal boyfriend automatically equals happiness. It doesn't. It sometimes equals fear. Other times guilt."
"Why?"
Buffy sighs looking at Angel "He's not you Angel." she whispers "he's not you"
"No matter how much we want to be together we can't. Its too tempting." he looks at Briena "What if we did get back together? Do we want to risk putting her in the line of fire?" he sits on the edge of the bed resting his hand on Briena's chest feeling the heart beat steadily "I miss you too Buffy. More everyday." he looks up at her as she moves closer then looks at Briena "Sometimes Briena gives me look that reminds me of you. Sometimes when she's drawing or coloring she'll get the same thoughtful you used to get when I watched you study."
"Angel" she whispers "Brie deserves the chance to have a somewhat normal family."
"How are we supposed to do that Buffy?" he demands
"I don't know." she admits "We need to give it a chance Angel... for her maybe in a way for us"
"Buffy"
"She deserves it Angel."
"She does I know that." Angel agrees "But what about the risks Buffy?"
he stands "do we want to risk her life and countless others?" Angel demands "I don't want either of you to get hurt." he walks out of the room
Cordelia, Doyle and Riley look up as they hear footsteps coming towards them "Damn it Angel you always do this" Buffy says angrily grabbing his arm forcing him to look at her. "You always walk away"
"I can't Buffy" he replies reaching out he touches the scar on her neck. "No matter how much I want to I can't put her in danger" he says dropping his hand "I can't put you in danger" he whispers
"You know that no matter what we are in danger. From what we are"
"Uh guys what is going on?" Cordelia interrupts
"Angel" Buffy pleads
In Briena's room the little girl slowly opens her eyes. Rubbing her eyes tiredly she winces from the pain in her side. Carefully she sits up looking around the room she grabs her stuffed dog getting out of the bed she slowly walks to the door curious about the familiar voices. Rubbing her eyes tiredly she sees Angel and Buffy talking. "Daddy. Mommy" she calls sleepily
Angel and Buffy turn around to see the little girl tiredly rubbing her eyes. They go over to Briena crouching before her "Sweetie what are you doing out of bed?" Buffy asks smoothing a strand of hair out of Briena's face.
Briena sticks her thumb in her mouth "Uh dunno" she shrugs.
Angel stands holding his hand to Briena "Come on baby girl back to bed."
Briena slips her hand into his then smiles sleepily at Buffy over her shoulder.
"I'll be in to see you in a little bit" Buffy says
" 'kay Mommy" she yawns following Angel into the room
"Buffy what the hell is going on?" Riley demands his voice raising
Buffy turns to look at her boyfriend "Riley calm down. Lets go talk in the stairwell" Buffy suggests
"Fine" Riley agrees following her into the stairwell. He looks at Buffy his face a mixture of anger, hurt, and confusion. "What's going on Buffy? Why did she call you Mommy?"
"Riley sit down" Buffy suggests
Riley does "Buffy I'm confused."
"Riley I didn't tell you everything about my relationship with Angel"
"Oh really" he says drily
She glares at him "I guess I should have told you the truth but I thought it was for the best if I didn't tell you."
"What?"
Buffy rubs her hands on her pants nervously "Angel and I were lovers and Briena is my daughter"
"What?!" Riley exclaims
"I'm Briena's mother"
"How is that possible? She's 4 years old"
"Its a long story" Buffy sighs
"You told me you met Angel when you were 16. She can't be your daughter she's too old."
"She is Riley" Buffy insists "I can't explain it to you."
"Why not?" he demands "Don't you trust me Buffy? How could you not trust me with this?!"
"I can't explain its too complicated."
"What's so complicated?"
"Who we are" she replies "Riley she's my daughter. I am not going to let the Initiative test her"
"Why do you think they would?"
"She's special Riley. That's all I can tell you" Buffy says going to the door "If the Initiative goes after her Riley I won't let them take her. Neither will Angel." Buffy walks away leaving Riley standing in the stairwell.
Cordelia watches as Buffy exits the stairwell without Riley "Something tells me those two are over" she mutters to the half demon
Buffy stops in the doorway watching Angel and Briena as they talk.
"Daddy Molly and Vincent are dead aren't they?"
"Yes little one they died"
Briena nods laying her head on his shoulder "Jack's taking care of them just like he took care of me"
Angel kisses her head "Yes he is"
Briena notices Buffy standing in the doorway watching them "Hi Mommy" she smiles
Buffy smiles back "Hi baby girl" she joins them
"Mr Kelin" the doctor greets entering the room
Angel looks up "Doctor Richardson" he nods "Buffy this is Doctor Richardson. Doctor Richardson this is Briena's mother Buffy Summers"
"Miss Summers" he nods
Briena looks up at the newcomer tiredly "I wanna go home" she yawns
The Doctor chuckles "Don't like hospitals I take it"
Angel looks at Buffy "She takes after her mother on that one"
Buffy rolls her eyes "She takes after me on the one thing I hate most"
"Most kids are scared of hospitals" the doctor says to Briena
"Not scared" she insists "I want to go home."
"How do you feel Briena?"
"Fine."
"Does your head hurt?"
Briena shakes her head "No"
"Do you hurt anywhere?"
Briena shakes her head again moving closer to Angel
"Miss Summers Mr Kelin may I speak to you outside?" the doctor requests
Angel nods trying to lift Briena off his lap sighing as the little girl protests "Brie baby we'll be right outside."
"How about we send Cordy and Doyle in to keep you company" Buffy suggests
Briena shrugs "OK"
"We'll be right back" Angel promises moving the little girl to the bed
Buffy and Angel follow the doctor out of the room "Cordy Doyle Brie wants to see you" Angel tells them. Cordelia and Doyle head into the room.
"Is something wrong with Briena?" Buffy demands
"No she's fine. I want to keep her here for a day so I can keep an eye on her. Just to be on the safe side."
"All right" Angel agrees
"You can stay with her if you'd like" the doctor tells them
"Thanks" Buffy nods
"I'll check on her in a few hours. If you need me the nurses can reach me."
Angel his eyes on Buffy nods "Sure"
The Doctor nods leaving Buffy and Angel alone. Buffy moves to the chairs sitting down leaning her head against the wall. Angel sits beside her. Buffy reaches over slipping her hand into his. "I miss you Angel"
"I want to give it a try Buffy." he whispers
"What?!" she says startled looking at him
He touches her cheek "I love you Buffy. I never stopped."
"I love you Angel." she leans into his touch "How are we going to do this? We live two hours apart. I can't move here and its too dangerous for you and Brie to move to Sunnydale right now"
"I don't know baby. We'll figure it out" he leans closer kissing her gently "It'll be hard baby"
"I know but she's worth it" she smiles "she's our baby Angel giving her this chance no matter how hard it is is worth it."
Angel kisses her forehead "Come on we better go save our baby from those two" he stands holding Buffy's hand they enter the hospital room. "Doyle Cordy why don't you two head home" Angel suggests
"See you later Monkey" Doyle says
"Bye Doyle. Bye Cordy" Briena yawns
"Bye you" Cordelia grins "Don't forget that if you see any cute doctors let me know"
"Cordy you are not using Briena to find a boyfriend" Angel groans
"Hey she's cute and funny no one can resist her why not?" Cordelia shrugs heading out the door
"Princess you can't use her to hit on guys" Doyle says
"Oh come on when you take her to the park your telling me you never use her cuteness to pick up babysitters?"
"No" Doyle retorts
Angel and Buffy roll their eyes at each other "See what I deal with" Angel chuckles
"Hey I deal with Xander, Anya and Spike" Buffy reminds
"Daddy" Briena demands
"What baby girl?" Angel answers
"Tell me a story" she demands holding out her arms
Angel picks her up "What kind of story?" he asks sitting down on the recliner he pulls Buffy onto his lap
Briena sighs laying her head on his shoulder she yawns "Tell me about when you and Mommy met" she requests
Angel looks at Buffy and smiles "How about I tell you about the first time I ever saw your Mommy?"
" 'kay"
"Well it begin when I was still in New York almost six years ago" he begins
**** Fifteen minutes later ****
"And at that time I promised myself that I'd protect her at all costs" he finishes his eyes on Buffy
"She's asleep" Buffy whispers leaning her head against his
"I know" he replies hugging Buffy close. "Sometimes I just feel like holding her after she falls asleep." he admits shyly
"She's looks so much like you" Buffy states awed reaching out she traces Briena's features. "She has your nose. Sometimes when I look in her eyes its kinda like looking into yours."
"She has quirks that remind me of you. When she wants something she'll give me this pouting look like you give me."
"So she looks like you and has little things that are like me"
"She's part of both of us. The best parts"
"Yes she is the best of us. She's our miracle"
"That she is" he agrees
Buffy leans forward kissing him tenderly
"Not that I'm complaining but what was that for?"
"For everything." she smiles "I always knew you'd be a great Dad."
"Your a great Mom" Angel says
Buffy yawns "Thanks"
"Get some sleep baby" Angel whispers
Buffy moves her head to his shoulder "I love you my Angel"
"I love you Buffy"
Part 25
**** Sunnydale- Riley's Dorm: Next Morning ****
"Hey Iowa" Forrest calls knocking on the door
"What" Riley calls
Forrest opens the door to find his friend sitting at his desk staring at the wall "Hey man what's the deal?"
Riley looks at his friend "Nothing. What do you want?"
"Walsh wants to see you" Forrest answers
"Not now" Riley snaps
Forrest sits down "What's wrong man? I thought that Summers would be here."
Riley leans forward looking at his hands "She's in LA. A friend was in an accident"
"The ex?" Forrest questions
"The daughter" Riley answers
"And she went to comfort the ex" Forrest states
Riley shrugs "I don't know."
"She left you man" Forrest remarks "I knew she'd do something like that" he shakes his head
Riley looks at Forrest "Its just there's something off about the guy. Buffy never spoke about him. All I knew was that he left her and it hurt her."
"So she left you for him"
"I don't really know. We didn't really talk about it."
"What's this guy like?"
"He's the tall, dark and mysterious type. Like I said there's something off about him"
"What does he do?"
"He's a private investigator of some sort" Riley answers with a shrug
"So are you going to check this guy out?" Forrest asks
"No" Riley shakes his head "I made Buffy a promise that I wouldn't invade Angel's privacy."
"Why'd you do that?" Forrest demands
"She asked me to. She said that Angel is very protective of his daughter" 'their daughter' he thinks bitterly
"Come on man aren't you curious?" Forrest inquires
"I am but I made a promise"
"Whatever man" Forrest sighs standing "Check ya later man"
"Tell Walsh I'll be there in a while"
"Sure Ri later" Forrest says leaving the room. Once outside the room Forrest stares at the door thoughtfully 'I'm curious about this ex boyfriend. Let's see what he's hiding' Forrest heads down to the underground Initiative.
**** LA: The hospital ****
"Buffy" Angel whispers stroking her hair
"Huh?" she yawns
"I need to get home" he whispers
Buffy opens her eyes smiling as she looks into the familiar brown eyes "Morning"
"Morning beloved" he smiles kissing her
"What did you say about going home?" she yawns
"Its almost light out" he nods at the window
"Oh" she sighs standing she stretches her arms over her head. She smiles at the sight of the sleeping little girl "Here" she carefully starts to move Briena from Angel's arms
"No" Briena whimpers in protest clutching Angel's shirt
"Its OK sweetie" Buffy assures
"Mommy" Briena sighs relaxing at the sound of the familiar voice.
Buffy cradles the little girl close watching as Angel stands "so see you tonight?"
Angel nods pulling on his jacket "I'll be back at nightfall" he promises
"Hey your forgetting something"
"What?" He asks
Buffy pouts "You can't walk out without giving us a goodbye kiss"
Angel smiles kissing Briena's head. "One down" he whispers against Buffy's lips kissing her gently
"I love you" Buffy sighs before deepening the kiss
"I love you too" he says breaking the kiss. "I'll see you later" he pulls away. "Oh here" he reaches into his pocket pulling out his keys "You might need these. I'm going in through the sewer so I won't need these" he kisses her again
"All right" she says as she watches Angel walk out of the room. Carefully she lays Briena on the bed slipping off her own shoes she lays beside the little girl.
**** Three hours later ****
"Wake up" Briena says shaking Buffy gently
"What's wrong baby girl?" Buffy asks opening her eyes
Briena grins "Nothing"
Buffy shakes her head "Then why did you wake me up?"
"I dunno" the child shrugs looking around "Where's Daddy?"
"He had to get home"
"Why?"
Buffy props her head up on her hand "Because he didn't want to risk getting caught in the sunlight"
"Oh"
The door opens "Buffy"
Buffy looks over to see her mother entering the room "Mom what are you doing here?"
"Willow called me and told me what happened" Joyce answers putting her purse down "Briena honey are you OK?" Joyce asks the little girl
Briena nods looking at Buffy "Can I watch TV?"
"Sure baby girl" Buffy hands the little girl the remote control once the little girl's attention is on the TV Buffy turns to her mother "Mom you didn't need to cut your trip short"
"Buffy I wanted to. How's she doing?"
"She had a few bruises and cuts. She was unconcious for a few hours." Buffy answers looking at the little girl
"She was lucky then"
"Yes she was." Buffy looks at her mother "The doctor thought that she was more severely injured when she came in. Angel thinks that her healing ability helped."
"How'd you get here?" Joyce questions
Buffy looks at Briena and then her hands "I talked Riley into driving me here. Spike was out of town and no one else was able to bring me."
"What happened?"
"He heard Briena call me Mommy. After that I had to explain"
"So he knows?" Joyce asks
"Not all of it."
"What does he know?"
"That I'm Brie's mother. I didn't explain the whole Angel is a vampire with a soul thing. Or how Briena is four years old when Angel and I've only known each other for 3 years. Or the whole fact that she wasn't technically born."
"Are you going to tell him all that?"
"No" Buffy says firmly "When he found out about Spike he flipped out. If he found out about Briena and Angel I have no idea how he'd react or what he'd do"
"I take it you two broke up" Joyce states
"We didn't say it but yes I guess we did. Its for the best"
Joyce nods hugging her daughter "Honey I'm sorry I know you liked him"
"Mom I liked him as a friend. I never loved him" Buffy says "I've only loved Angel."
"I know honey."
Buffy looks at Briena "Mom Angel and I have talked and" she pauses
"Your getting back together" Joyce finishes
Buffy looks at her mother and nods "We thought we'd give it a chance. Not just for Brie's sake but ours."
"Honey are you sure?"
Buffy smiles faintly "We're sure. Its going to be hard but she's worth it. I've missed him Mom."
"Honey I know I haven't been very supportive of your relationship with Angel in the past but I'm going to be now. I know how important he is to you."
"He is." Buffy smiles "But she's more important"
Joyce and Buffy look over at the little girl "What are you planning to do? Are they moving to Sunnydale? Or are you moving to LA?"
Buffy shakes her head "We haven't decided. We know I can't move here and they can't move to Sunnydale"
"Buffy what about the whole clause thing?" Joyce asks
"Mom I know your worried about the whole sex thing. We can control ourselves" she insists "we have too"
"I want you to be happy sweetie"
"I am Mom. He makes me happy"
"I know honey"
"Everything will be fine Mom." she looks at Briena "I'm where I belong"
**** That Afternoon ****
"Miss Summers" the Doctor greets entering the room
"Hi Doctor Richardson" Buffy greets looking up from her drawing with Briena "Mom this is Doctor Richardson. Doctor Richardson this is my mother Joyce Summers" she introduces
"Hello" Joyce nods
"Mrs Summers." acknowledges the doctor
"Can I go home now?" Briena demands
"Actually thats why I'm here" the doctor grins at the little girl "You really want to go home huh?"
"Yes" Briena nods happily "I want my toys and my room."
"Is she in good enough condition to go home?" Joyce questions
"She's healthy enough" the doctor assures
"I want to go home" Briena demands
"All right then. I'll have the nurse bring in the discharge papers and some clothes and you can take her home"
"Yeah" Briena says happily
Buffy laughs "How about we call Daddy and let him know?"
Briena frowns looking at the clock "Daddy's sleeping"
"Somehow I doubt he's getting much sleep" Buffy sighs
"OK lets call Daddy"
Buffy smiles picking up the phone she dials the familiar number
"Hello" Angel greets
"How did I know you wouldn't be asleep?" Buffy muses
"Hey what's going on?"
"Brie has something to tell you" Buffy informs him
"All right" he says
Buffy hands Briena the phone "Hi Daddy" she greets
"Hey baby girl what did you want to tell me?"
"I get to come home" she says happily
"That's great. Can I talk to Mommy?"
"Sure" Briena hands Buffy the phone "Wants to talk to you" she jumps off the bed
Buffy watches as Briena explores the room "Hey"
"What did the doctor say?" he asks
"Said she's fine." Buffy watches as the nurse enters the room with a clipboard and some clothes. Buffy takes the clipboard
"Come on Brie time to get dressed" Joyce calls
"Uh I take it your Mom's there" Angel sighs
"Yeah Willow got a hold of her somehow. She's been here for a while"
"I don't want to" Briena replies
"Briena the faster you get dressed the sooner you get to go home" Joyce reminds
"Oh OK" she grumbles
"I take it Brie's being difficult" Angel groans
"Of course. She takes after you on that" Buffy laughs
"Hey that's you not me"
"OK we'll be there in an hour or so. We're going to stop off and do some quick shopping. I need something to wear. Need us to pick up anything?"
"Uh just a sec"
Buffy listens as he moves around the room
"damn it Cordy what did I tell you about leaving towels on my chair?!"
"Sorry" she apologizes
"What?" Buffy questions
"She left a wet towel on my chair" Angel complains
"Poor baby"
Angel opens the refridgerator scanning it "Can you pick up some milk"
"Sure" Buffy agrees
"I don't want to wear shoes" Briena complains
"Brie come on just put on your shoes" Joyce requests
"No" she pouts "Don't want to"
"I better go. Go back to bed." Buffy orders
"All right I'll see you later" Angel says hanging up
"Briena" Buffy calls
"Uh oh" Briena says her eyes wide "I'm sorry" she apologizes
Buffy goes over to the little girl picking her up she puts her on the bed. "Come on baby girl you need to put on your shoes."
"I don't want to" Briena complains
"You have to." Buffy insists
"NO" Briena shakes her head
Buffy watches as the little girl's eyes flash gold "Briena calm down."
"I don't want to wear those shoes" Briena pouts
Knowing the little girl won't put the shoes on with out a fight Buffy puts the shoes down "All right you don't have to"
"Buffy you can't just give in to her demands." Joyce admonishes
Buffy picks up the shoeless child "Mom there is no way I'd get her into those shoes without a fight. This isn't the place for her to get mad."
Buffy shifts the little girl in her arms
"Momma I need Mr Doggie" Briena demands
Buffy picks up the stuffed dog handing it to her daughter "Here baby"
"Thank you Momma" Briena smiles laying her head on Buffy's shoulder
"So where too?" Joyce asks following Buffy out of the door
Buffy hands the clipboard to the nurse "I thought we'd go shopping 'cuz I need some clothes and pick up some milk first but I think she is too tired to last"
"Mommy can we go home?" Briena yawns
"Sure sweetie"
"Why don't we take her back to the apartment and then do some quick shopping" Joyce suggests leading the two out of the hospital to the parking lot.
"I think that's a good idea" Buffy agrees
**** Fifteen minutes later ****
Buffy opens the door to the apartment and Briena races past her. "Brie where are you going?"
"See Daddy" she calls racing into Angel's room. As she is about to jump on the bed Buffy grabs her. Briena wiggles in protest "Down"
"Shh Daddy's sleeping."
Angel listens as the two women in his life talk. He opens his eyes watching as the two talk. "Not anymore" Angel says
Buffy turns around trying to hide a smile "Your supposed to be sleeping" she admonishes
Angel shrugs sitting up "I thought you were going shopping"
Buffy smiles looking over her bare chested lover "We are. She's getting grumpy" she looks at the tired child
"Oh really?" Angel smiles
Briena holds out her arms to Angel "Hi Daddy"
Angel takes the little girl from Buffy's arms "Hey baby girl"
Briena curls close to Angel her thumb in her mouth she sighs happily content to be in her father's arms
"Mom and I will be back in a while."
Angel nods "There's some money in the drawer of desk in the living room" he tells
"OK" she sits beside Angel kissing Briena's head "I'll see you later baby girl"
Briena nods sleepily " 'kay"
Buffy smiles at Angel "Get some sleep" she tells him. At his nod she kisses him lightly. Standing she heads out the bedroom door to find her mother waiting in the kitchen "Just a sec Mom" she goes to the desk opening the drawer she finds an envelope and counting out enough money for groceries she closes the drawer and joins her mother in the kitchen.
"Ready honey?" Joyce asks
Buffy nods grabbing the keys off the counter she follows her mother out the door locking it behind her. Once in the car she turns to her mother "I just realized that if I'm going to have to tell Dad about Briena"
"That might be a good idea" Joyce agrees starting the car
Buffy groans "He's not going to take this very well"
"Honey your father doesn't take anything very well" Joyce says drily
"How well do you think he's going to take the whole age difference thing?"
Joyce shakes her head "Not well"
"Great. How do you think he'll take to the whole having a granddaughter part?"
"That is a very good question"
**** An hour later: the apartment ****
Angel leaves the bathroom wearing pants and an undershirt as he dries his hair with a towel. He smiles at the sight of Briena sprawled out in his bed asleep. He heads into the kitchen where he takes out the container of blood pouring some into a mug.
"Daddy" Briena says tugging lightly on Angel's pant leg
Angel looks down to see Briena looking up at him "Yes Briena?"
Briena hugs his leg "Love you Daddy"
"Love you too baby girl" he picks Briena up. "Did you have a good sleep baby?" he asks as he puts his mug in the microwave
"Uh huh" she nods laying her head on his shoulder as she plays with the small golden cross around his neck "Where's Mommy?"
Angel takes the mug out of the microwave "She and Joyce went shopping." he answers taking a drink
"Daddy can I have a cookie?"
Angel puts the mug down on the counter "I don't know if there are any left. But lets see" he opens the cabinet where he finds some cookies. "You're in luck my girl Cordy didn't eat them all" he hands her a cookie
"I resent that" Cordelia says entering the kitchen
"Did you finish the filing?" Angel asks
"Yep" she nods
"Thanks."
"Hi Cordy" Briena smiles
"Hey you" Cordelia smiles back "I'm outta here. Do you need me to babysit tonight?"
"No" Angel shakes his head "If I need anyone too I'll call Doyle."
"All right. I'm outta here"
"Bye Cordy" Briena waves
"Bye Briena" she calls heading out of the apartment
A few moments after Cordelia leaves the phone rings "Hello?" Angel answers
"Hey Angel its Willow is Buffy there?"
"Hey Will. No Buffy's out shopping with her mother." Angel answers shifting Briena in his arms
"Oh. How's Briena?" Willow inquires
"She's fine. They let her come home a while ago"
"That's great."
Angel looks towards the door "Buffy's back"
The door opens and in walk Buffy and Joyce "Hey you two" Buffy greets
"Its Willow" Angel tells her
"Oooh" Buffy says happily putting the bags down she takes the phone from Angel kissing his cheek "Hey Will" she greets
Seeing the department store bags Angel chuckles "Brie it looks like your mother bought out the store again"
"You know Buffy she can't go to the mall without buying things she needs and things she wants." Joyce laughs
"I know. That's why I avoid shopping with her" Angel laughs
Briena wiggles in Angel's arms "Daddy I want to go draw"
"Later sweetie you need a bath first"
"No" she shakes her head
"Yes" Angel insists
"NO"
"YES"
Buffy returns to the kitchen to hear Angel and Briena arguing. "Angel phone... its Kate"
"Can you two deal with her?" he asks standing he hands Briena to Buffy taking the phone "Your taking the bath" he tells Briena firmly
Joyce and Buffy take the little girl out of the kitchen. "Come on Brie the faster you take it the faster its over with" Buffy reminds
"Hi Kate" he greets
"Sounds like someone's not happy" Kate says
"Yeah Brie hates taking a bath"
"Glad to hear she's out of the hospital"
"So are we"
"Um I thought I'd let you know I got a strange phone call asking about you."
Hearing that Angel is startled "What was it about?"
"He just asked about you. I didn't tell him anything."
"Thanks. Did you get a name?"
"Uh" Angel hears Kate shift through some papers. "Jonathon Frighman"
"Doesn't sound familiar" Angel states "thanks Kate"
"Sure. I'll see what I can find out about this guy and I'll let you know"
"Thanks but something tells me that name is an alias. You won't find anything on him. If you do it'll be the wrong guy"
"I agree but I'll see what I can find anyway."
Angel turns around to see Buffy standing in the doorway "All right then I'll talk to you later. Thanks Kate" he says hanging up
"What's going on Angel?" Buffy asks
"Nothing" he lies sitting down
Buffy looks at him "You never were very good at lying" she states moving closer she sits on his lap "What's going on?" she demands
Angel looks at her then takes her hand in his "Nothing you need to worry about"
"Spill" she orders
"Kate said someone called about me. Asking questions"
"Who?"
"Some guy named Jonathon Frighman"
"Possible client?" she asks hopefully
"I don't think so."
"Why not?" Buffy asks
"Few people know what I do. Those that do are usually part of the demon community or something. Very few know to talk with Kate. Something about this is off"
Buffy sees the thoughtful look on his face "You don't think its Riley do you?"
"Buffy" he sighs "the fact that he knows your the Slayer and that you are Briena's mother."
"So he doesn't know that your a vampire. I never told him much about you or our relationship."
"Buffy what did you tell him?"
"Not much. Why?" Buffy asks
"Daddy Mommy" Briena calls racing into the kitchen
"We'll finish this later" Angel promises
"No now" Buffy says she gets off his lap picking up Briena she carries the little girl into the livingroom "Mom"
Joyce walks out of the bathroom drying off her hands "Yes?"
"Brie why don't you go play in your room" Buffy puts Briena down
" 'kay" she agrees heading into her bedroom
"We're going upstairs to talk"
"OK I'll see what I can do about dinner" Joyce replies
Buffy nods heading into the kitchen she finds Angel staring at the wall absently "earth to Angel" she calls
Angel looks up smiling faintly "All right" he stands heading into the elevator with Buffy. Once upstairs they sit on the couch. Angel looks at Buffy then lifting his hand to her face he moves her hair out of her face. "Buffy are you sure that you can trust him?"
Buffy nods "He gave me his word. He's a farmboy and soldier that combination is reliable"
"I trust you Buffy but I can't trust him."
"I know"
"How'd your mother take the news?"
Buffy shrugs "Pretty good. She took it better than everyonce else will. Xander and Giles are going to flip. Willow will take it better than them. Oz and Tara will be neutral. Overall the one who will take it worse will be my father"
"We're gonna have to tell him won't we" he groans
"Yes we will." she insists
Angel swears under his breath.
Buffy rolls her eyes "My father isn't that bad."
"All father's are bad when it comes to their daughters" Angel sighs "I doubt they've changed in 220 odd years. Are we going to tell him everything?"
Buffy shrugs "I don't know. What do you think? Should we?"
"I don't know. We have time to decide"
"We should do it soon"
"Next weekend"
"Sure"
After about an hour Buffy and Angel head back downstairs to find Joyce and Briena in the kitchen. "Briena can you put away your papers" Joyce requests
" 'kay" she nods picking up her papers and pens she takes them into the livingroom.
"In your room" Angel calls
"OK"
The door opens "Angel my man is there any aspirin?" Doyle demands
Angel looks up to see the half-demon "Check the bathroom"
"I had a major head splitting vision" Doyle complains heading into the bathroom
"What was it?" Angel asks
"There's no aspirin" Doyle complains
"You must have finished it off" Angel replies
Joyce looks up from her stirring "Buffy why don't you get the aspirin out of my purse for Doyle"
"Sure" Buffy grabs her mother's purse finding the aspirin bottle she calls "heads up" she tosses it to Doyle
"Thanks" Doyle says opening the bottle
"What was the vision?" Angel asks
"Some guy on the southside near the warehouse district is going to be attacked by a group of demons"
"When?"
"I don't know. Sometime tonight"
Within minutes Angel is out of the apartment through the sewers.
**** Five hours later ****
Angel enters the apartment through the sewers. He finds Buffy and Briena asleep on the couch. Smiling he removes his jacket hanging it up
"Hey" Buffy greets sleepily "What time is it?"
"Midnight" he answers sitting beside Buffy "Where's your Mom?"
"Went back to Sunnydale" she yawns leaning against Angel "She left around 9"
Angel kisses the top of her head. "Why don't you go to bed" he suggests "You must be exhausted"
"I am" she admits "so was she" she looks at Briena
"I'll put her down" Angel offers
"No I got it" Buffy replies standing she carries Briena into her bedroom. "Night sweetie" she sais kissing the little girl's forehead. She leaves the room pulling the door partially shut behind her. She finds Angel browsing the bookcase. "What are you doing?" she asks
Angel looks at her "I've got some work to do" he answers
"Need some help?" Buffy asks
"No thanks. Get some sleep"
Buffy looks at Angel "I'll see you in the morning"
Angel nods absently
Shaking her head Buffy heads into the bedroom removing her shoes and jeans she crawls into the bed. Sighing happily at the familiar scent of Angel 'I'm where I belong' she thinks closing her eyes
A few hours later Buffy wakes up to the sound of crying. "Briena" she realizes sitting up she scrambles out of bed. Going to Angel's closet she grabs one of his shirts buttoning it up. She heads out of the bedroom to find Angel holding the little girl. "What happened?" she asks worried
Angel looks up to see Buffy "She had a bad dream" he answers rubbing Briena's back soothingly
Buffy sits beside Angel "Oh Briena"
Briena's sobs calm down to hiccups cuddling close to Angel calmed by the rumbling purr coming from Angel.
Buffy smiles at the comforting sound laying her head against his shoulder. "She likes when you do that"
"It calms her"
"Mmm" Buffy sighs sleepily "I like it too" she yawns
Angel leans his head against Buffy's closing his eyes he follows them into sleep.