Author's Note: It was the phone call that rocked the world. Ok maybe not the world, but it made Wesley's nervous as heckers. His mother needs his help, and he, being the good boy he is, offers to help his beloved mother. Sophia is in lover's heaven, but is it to last? And who will come to her and haunt her in ways she thought she long forgot? But remember not all is as it seems, maybe this man is actually delivering her a message. Of what? You'll have to stay tuned. Plus, a fun plane ride back to Solstice, but this time Wesley is not empty handed. He's come to keep the promise of bringing a family, complete with loving wife, to his mother's house. And WAIT! What does Bianca know about Sophia that we don't? Read and You'll see. Here you go! A brand new chapter 12! Enjoy and I'll talk to you after the show.
To My Reviewers:
Imzadi: I never saw the movie either. I heard it was so-so. Oh they will get their acts together, It's just you know how love is unpredictable. It just all takes time. Oh, you'll love who he is…Thanks for the Review!
Miss American Pie : I "la la don't think about it" when it comes to Bianca and Roger together. That sweet woman never deserved someone as dreadful as Roger, but then we wouldn't have our Wesley. And then what kind of world would that be? Oh and trust me you think you hate Roger now? HA! Nothing compared to what's to come! Keep up with the great writing on all the stories. Thanks for reviewing!
Chasing the stars: This phone tag game is fun on occasion. I'll call you later for plans this weekend. I have to show you my yearbook and pics of the lovely Lex. They are so worth the loading time! Thanks for reviewing!
Luna : Ok just because I'm such a nice girl, next week I'll give you not one but count TWO NEW CHAPTERS! Yes all worth the wait. Thanks for the news about James. I love that man! I saw some USA movie about him as a criminal just for him. It was the first time I heard his American accent. Yummy accent, actually both are. Thanks for the review!
"Mum, what happened?"
Wesley had just left his perfect opportunity for a phone call from his mother, but this phone call was more important than a romantic rendezvous. His mother was in need of her only child.
"It's about your father. He committed some grievous acts before his death, darling" Bianca had just found documents containing incrementing evidence against her ex-husband.
"Oh mum, have father's dealings put you in danger? Because--" He would do anything to protect her.
"No, oh my dear son, you never rest. No, I'm not in danger but I do need your help" She desperately needed his aid.
"Anything." he answered quickly
"Could you come to England?"
"I will come to visit--"
"No. Wesley, on work. I need you to go undercover" She corrected him.
"Undercover?" He was a tad confused
"Yes, I need you to find out some secrets your father was hiding before he died. I don't want to put you in danger at all, so I have to tell you something is you come. My own secret"
His stomach jumped and twisted. In the matter of two minutes he discovered he was needed and being lied to by both his parents.
"What's you secret?" It was driving him crazy
"I'd rather tell you in person. Please, I don't deserve it, buy may you grant me that?'
"Of course" He respected her wishes.
"Thank you"
"What do I need?" He needed to be prepared
"If you could leave Monday morning and pack for a few days. You'll need a suit."
"Anything else?'
"A woman"
"What?" His thoughts jumped to one person
"Yes, I'll need you to bring one of your female associates. Preferably someone your close to, you'll need to be extremely--. Just, please bring a colleague of yours. How about Sophia?"
Bianca had heard about this enchanting Sophia Avila, the daughter of her old friends Rupert Giles and Isabella Avila. She had loved her from the first moment Wesley had gushed about her on the phone. She thought if anyone made her son feel alive and loved like this, she must be something special.
"Sophia? Well, mum, will she be in any danger?" He didn't want anything to happen to his future wife.
"My dear son, aren't you worried about yourself, no you wouldn't be. Your worried for the woman you love"
"Mum!" Although it was the truth, he didn't feel comfortable talking about it to his mother.
"But I am right. Wesley, if I know you, you haven't told her" Bianca always knew Wesley was apprehensive about falling in love and getting his heart broken.
"Now is not the time. Please, what else do you need" He tried to get off the subject
"Grandchildren" She laughed
"Mother" He sighed
"Just that and I love you" She told him sincerely
"I love you too. Please be careful." He warned her
"Always, you be careful." She replied
"Bye Mum"
"Bye darling"
He hung up the phone and decided to sleep on it.
That Monday morning, Sophia dressed in the nicest "I look like this everyday, even though I'm drop dead gorgeous" outfit. This was the day she was preparing for since she first fell in love with Wesley Wyndam-Pryce. She had planned it perfectly in her mind. She would walk in and the path would be lined in roses, and there he would stand with a smile and flowers. He would tell her that he had feelings for her and that every moment they shared was one of happiness and longing. It was, in fact, the way she felt about him.
"Your insane" But was she really? She was receiving visions of a future with the man, the children they would share and the times they would have.
"Hey, if the powers that be want it this way. I have no objections" She thought as she was getting ready. Her black dress pants and white laced cami top with a flowy bohemian long sleeved shirt on top made her look romantic and sophisticated at once. She remembered that Wesley loved that rose/violet fragrance she wore when she first came to LA. Her shoes were the black stiletto heals with the pearls that Cordelia suggested she buy at the sale they were at when Sophia was depressed about Wesley.
"My feet can take it for today"
She topped it all off with a beautiful pearl necklace that belonged to Isabella and was given to Sophia after her death.
"Thanks Mama"
Today was all about her new life. A life that included everything she wanted since she was a child. A happy family. She was going to live the life her mother disserved. A wonderful life with her husband and children.
She walked out of her apartment with a skip in her step as she headed for her car. She drove to the gate of the hotel and parked in her little designated area. She was met by Gunn who was outside cleaning a demon gut filled weapon.
"Oh, look who's all dressed up today. What's going on girl?"
"Well, Charles. It's a wonderful day and we're all alive and happy. I love you!" She hugged Gunn and kissed him on the cheek. He was surprised that she called him Charles
"She only does that when I beat her in Sorry, or she's scarred"
"Not that I mind some Sophia lovin', but are you ok?" he was confused
"Peachy Keen" she smiled her smile
"Ok. If your looking for Wesley he's in his office. He's pacing around" He knew what all the smileyness was about.
"Who said I was looking for Wesley?" She raised her eyebrow and put her hands on her hips
"Oops launched the tiny missile"
"Well, senorita. Can I tell you a secret?" He asked her playfully
"What I'm here for" She was eager to hear it
"Wesley's got something very important to tell you" He noticed Wesley's stutter and worried brow all morning. He had never been this nervous over a woman.
"Very interesting" She nodded know what it was. It was then she caught Wesley coming out of his office with a file in his hand.
"Speak of the angel" She said softly. Gunn turned around.
"My cue to leave. Good luck Soph" He patted her arm. She smiled at him as he walked in the hotel leaving her in the garden. She walked around looking at the fake flowers Cordy put in and feeling the winter breeze.
Gunn passed Wesley and whispered to him
"No better time than now" The sly man that Gunn was, he didn't break a stride. Wesley was caught off guard and gave Gunn a look.
"What the devil are you talking about?" He said still looking at the file.
Gunn kept walking forward and pointed to Sophia in the garden. Wesley stopped Gunn in his tracks.
"Oh, yes" Wesley looked at her with love in his eyes.
"Oh yeah. Wesley serious now. You want to Shakespeare it up? Juliet's in the garden"
"They both committed suicide" He reminded his friend
"Do you really have time for another reference?" Gunn was growing impatient.
"Your right" Wesley looked at the floor
"Can never hear that enough. Go!" He pushed his friend.
Wesley was on his way outside and had no idea what he was going to do.
"Either I tell her my feelings and then we go uncomfortably to England or I don't tell her and she drops her expectations about me. How is she going to feel that the day I tell her my feeling, she has to meet my mother? It's best I don't tell her"
He walked out to see Sophia sitting on the bench with her eyes closed.
"She looks amazing" For some reason, her top seemed bridal and the pearls looked familiar. He thought she looked like a snow angel his mother had back at Solstice that he adored. The way she was sitting with her eyes closed, as if she was waiting for something, reminded him of the position of the angel.
"Sophia?" He asked quietly. Her eyes fluttered open while his heart thumped in his chest.
"Hi Wesley" She told him with a smile. She got up and was awed at how handsome he looked. He had his black pea coat over a charcoal turtleneck sweater with his dark blue jeans and some black Doc Martins. He looked quite sharp as he was fresh-shaven and had put on the cologne Sophia loved.
"It's now. Please let it be now" She prayed. She was now face to face with him. His blue eyes shimmered as her brown eyes glowed.
They were both extremely nervous. Sophia had a David Gray song in her head as Wesley was trying to find his words.
"Sophia, I need to talk to you"
"Of course, is everything ok?"
"What are you about to tell me?"
"May we sit down?'
"Sure" He led her to the bench where they first impressed each other. They sat down close yet far away from each other.
"Trying very hard to speak" He thought as he gulped.
"You know about Solstice?"
"You speak about it often. Did something happen to Bianca? Oh God is she ok?" It was odd how her focus jumped from her love life to the welfare of Wesley's mother.
"No, Sophia my mother is fine, but she needs us"
"Us?" She liked the sound of that word,
"Yes, I don't know all the details, but my mother needs us to go undercover in London. I was wondering if you would be willing to stay at Solstice for a few days"
"That was the big news" Her heart sank. She felt idiotic that she dressed up for a letdown.
His mind was riddled with gilt as he felt his own heart fall when he saw her face. He desperately wanted to declare his love for her, but scheduling conflicts interrupted them.
"It's best this way. I'll tell her in England, when the opportunity presents itself" Oh yeah, he was in deep denial that yet again, his love for Sophia Evangeline Avila remained unknown because of circumstances beyond his control.
"I'll go" She didn't look at him
"Thank you" He could look at her, it just broke his heart.
"What'll I need?" Her tone was low
"An evening gown, some clothes for the week, and that's it" He knew she was wasn't mad, just greatly disappointed.
"All right. When does the flight leave?" Her consonants her sharp and hasty.
"12:00 today. We should be ready by 10:00 to leave. I have your ticket." He told her caringly
"You were that sure that I would come. My how quick of you" She was in pain. Her words came out the way she was thinking of them. She knew she would regret it later, but for now they were comforting.
"Well, I just thought…" He tried to put his hand on hers. She immediately rushed her hand to her side and stared emotionlessly at him
"Bianca needs me. I should go pack my bags. Call if you--need to add something to the list. If something slipped you mind" Her voiced changed from anger to hurt and sadness. She got up from the bench and tried her hardest not to burst into tears. She had no time for a breakdown or a Cordelia/Buffy cheering. She had to deal with this one on her own. She walked to her car and got inside. On her way to her apartment she called Fred.
"Hey Sophie"
"Hey Freddy, I'm going to be leaving the country on assignment, so could you tell the others. I'm not going back to the hotel" She'd rather be shaved by blind nuns.
"Oh sure. I'll send your love. What's the assignment?"
"Bianca Wyndam-Pryce needs…me" She couldn't say us or Wesley.
"And Wesley"
"Yeah, I'll be gone for a week at most"
"Water the plants?"
"Could you? Thanks honey"
"No problem. I'll tell everyone. Bye Sophia. Have a fun time!" Fred's giddiness drove her to tears, but she concealed them
"Thanks. Bye Fred" It was an odd sight. Sophia was smiling and crying. She closed her phone. She held it all in. To an outsider, It may have looked like she had allergies. The tears were streaming down, but there were no sobs. She was shattered in every meaning of the word.
"There's no time" She thought robotically. She went through the motions of packing. A shirt out of the closet, folded and put in the suitcase. She was headed for the closet when she saw a picture of she and Wesley at Caritas. They were at a table talking when Faith had snuck up on them and took a candid picture of them smiling and looking at each other. They looked so happy and captivated by the other. She was frozen for a moment as she thought about Wesley. Her eyes watered as she picked up the picture.
"You remember that day?" She turned around suddenly. The whole room became dark as night.
"I thought--" She shook her head in disbelief
"That's a great picture" He walked over to her
"Your not real" She whispered
"I'm right in front of you" He stood closer to her
"No your not. It's my bad coping skills" She turned away
"Oh Sophia. Your wrong. Feel" He grabbed her arms and brought her into him.
"Christian! Your not real!" She screamed trying to get away.
Christian Langdon was holding her. His green eyes burned her skin as she couldn't look away at the man who hurt her the most out of anyone in her life.
"You want him the same way you wanted me." He whispered into her ear. His breath landed on her and felt as warm as ever.
"Oh God" She stared to sob
"Not God. It wasn't God who took me away from you. My beautiful fiancée. You are love of my life. But I'm not yours, I'm not you love. I wanted to be yours only, but it wasn't meant to be was it?" He told her softly
"Say it's not as it seems" she pleaded.
"But it is Sophia. You wanted to be Sophia Langdon. You tasted everyday of the engagement, as did I. I wanted it too. All those walks, all the memories, the house we were going to buy. All gone in a flash."
"You left me! Why are you doing this to me?" She was still in his arms. She didn't struggle as she remembered the man that held her.
"You need to know what happened. Wesley will bring you the truth, you just need to let him" He was still whispering.
"How? What happened to you?"
"You were never supposed to be with me. Had you been... I can tell you one thing. Which would you rather know? A future for you or Wesley?'
"What would have happened to Wesley?' She didn't hesitate
"He would be dead." She fell to the floor and began to sob again.
"Dead?" She laid down.
"I can't tell you everything, but just know that this was the way it was destined to be" Suddenly, Christian was on top of her and kissed her passionately. She tried to stop it but felt too weak.
"No, stop! Please!" She was paralyzed
"I'm not going to force you. I'm not going to hurt you. Just know that means something. That will always mean something. Good-bye Sophia" He picked her off the floor and embraced her again. She was drained of any energy as she closed her eyes.
"Just let me lead you" Sophia's eyes jolted open.
"Wesley?"
"We'll figure it all out. Everything. Just trust me as I trust you" He laid her on the bed and brushed her straight hair from her brow. He touched her chin and tilted it towards his lips.
"Veritias" She screamed as she woke up. She was in the complete dark with the shadows as her only companions. She got up quickly.
"Christian? Wesley?" She yelled though the apartment. She received no answer and felt semi-relived. She wanted to cry out of confusion and sadness that she never got closer from Christian.
She knew why she dreamt that. It was just another loss in her life. Wesley's rejection had opened the Langdon door Sophia thought she had demolished long ago.
"I thought I was over him"
She was. She just didn't know it.
She decided to let go of the depression over Wesley and focus all her attention on the case.
"I'll finally let go of him"
With that thought, she fell to the floor and found herself in a huge apartment. It wasn't really her, it was Sophia Wyndam-Pryce aged five years. She looked around at the homey place that screamed "American family".
"Oh sh--"
"Sure, mom. We got your wonderful gift. She absolutely adores it." Sophia Avila was stunned to see her other self on the phone.
"Mom!" Was it Bianca she was talking to?
"Mommy! Can daddy and I go get ice cream?" The same little girl Sophia saw in her musical dream cam running to her mother. Her black hair was wavy this time, but the color of her eyes were still that blinding blue. She seemed older, about 3 years of age.
"Mommy?" Sophia Avila thought
"Hold on a sec. Did your father ask you to ask me?" She raised an eyebrow
"He didn't want you mad" She told her in defense
"Well, darling. Tell your father to come in here"
"Mad at daddy?'
"Nope, just discussing plans with your grandma"
"Daddy! Mommy wants you! Can I talk to Gram?"
"Sure, just remind me to teach you how to properly call for someone" she laughed
"Hi Gram!" The little girl yelled even though she had handed her the phone.
Sophia Avila couldn't tell who was on the other line, but that was just other secret she wasn't supposed to understand. She stopped analyzing it when Wesley cam into the room. He looked older, yet the same. He had his glasses on. His style hadn't changed. The same dark sweaters and kaki pants. And oh yeah, he had a baby in his arms. He walked towards his wife and kissed her on the mouth.
"I have two children!"
"Hello sunbeam" He said
"Nice nickname"
"Sweet. Ice cream for Isabella?" As she took the baby from him. He walked over to his daughter and kissed her on the head.
"He's so proud of her"
"I thought it best to ask you" He told her while he tickled the child
"Wesley you know I won't get mad" She looked at him lovingly
"Not like I am now"
"Just thought you might want some. Coffee fudge swirl" He told her in compassion
"He knows me too well"
"I knew I married you for a reason" She smiled as he held her from behind. The baby in her arms cooed as it smiled at them.
Sophia Avila walked towards the couple. She was invisible in this dimension. She saw the beautiful baby boy in 'her' arms.
"Blue eyes, black hair"
"Hey Gideon! How are you honey? Did you and daddy have a fun time at the park?... You know I heard this new formula is better for 6 month olds" She moved her head to underneath her husband's chin.
"Really? Give me the name, and I'll pick it up at the store" He kissed the top of her head
"Thank you" She sighed
"Oh yes, you father called my cell phone"
"Dad called him!"
"Why did dad call you?" She was stunned
"Something about he wanted Gideon to have his old books he had as a child. He left a message on my voicemail "
"Yep, that's Rupert Giles" Both Sophia Avila and Sophia Wyndam-Pryce smiled at the fact.
"I love my father, he's still thanking me that we named the baby after him. Isn't that right baby?"
"Yes, your name is Gideon Rupert Wyndam-Pryce" Wesley said proudly
"Good long name. Dad's gonna love it"
"The first" She added
"The first" He laughed
"I should think all the books I'm giving Gideon would be enough"
"What do you have against my father's books?" She said rocking the baby.
"Nothing, it's just the council--"
"Don't start in on the council, you know I hate them" She tried to avoid those feelings and focus on her son.
"I hate the council?"
"I know darling" He looked at her with sympathy
"She's still on the phone" Sophia smiled seeing her daughter was chatting away her grandmother.
"She got that from me"
"I should--" He rested his chin on her head
"Yeah. I'll go feed this little bundle of joy." Then she whispered something in his ear while he smiled intrigued.
"Can't wait then!" he told her.
"Careful, another child. Ready for diaper duty for the third time?" They smiled.
"Yes" They both said happily with a kiss to seal the deal.
She put the baby down in his rocker/feeder. She felt herself twist and be kissed like only Wesley could. And this Wesley was no different.
"Just hold on" He told her. Then, she saw another figure in the same position she was in. His eyes were also confused and in disbelief. She heard him speak
"Sophia?" It was the Wesley she left at the hotel.
Sophia's vision blurred as she felt herself be pulled back into her world.
She woke up on the bed.
"Dream within a dream?"
"I guess that It's not over. I can't give up"
She sat up to see everything was packed and ready to go, including her.
Wesley woke up with a jolt to see all his luggage was packed to leave for his homeland of England.
"What was that?"
He had rushed home after his horrible letdown and started to pack to try and avoid the pain he felt. He felt fatigued suddenly and laid down for a moment that lasted a dream.
"A marriage and two children. A brilliant marriage and two beautiful children" He was amazed by the realness of it. It was too perfect considering that he had just ruined the chance with Sophia.
"There's still a chance. A big one" This heightened his spirits as he finalized his plans and got the tickets. He didn't know whether to call her or not. He really wanted to tell her everything over the phone, but she beat him to it.
His cell phone rang and he ran to pick it up. As before, he didn't check the called ID.
"Wyndam-Pryce" he said with grief
"It's Sophia. I'm sorry about earlier, it's just, I had a really rough morning. I'm really happy you chose me to accompany you home. I've always wanted to go to London ever since you mentioned Solstice."
"I'm sorry for springing the trip on you. It's all right about earlier. All forgotten. Do you want me to pick you up now?"
"Uh" She looked at the time it was five to nine and she hadn't the time to change.
"Well, this'll be a first. Hey my feet can take it" She was still in her outfit. At least she was dressed to impress Bianca.
"Are you not ready? I can wait" He didn't want to push her
"No, you can call the cab now. Where are you?" She thought he was at the hotel.
"At home. I'll run over to you"
"Ok, I'll call the cab"
"See you soon"
"Bye Wes"
The hung up the phones as Sophia called the cab company and Wesley left his apartment. Sophia cleaned up a bit and carried all her luggage to the outside by elevator. She was loading her last piece when Wesley came down the street in the same clothes he was wearing at the hotel.
"Didn't have time to change either?"
"No. Are you sure you can travel in those shoes?"
"We're about to find out. By the way…" She hugged him tightly as he bent down and rested his cheek on her head.
"Thanks for caring and being there for me everyday" She told him still in the hug
"Thank you for understanding and being so compassionate towards me Sophia"
"All right you two love birds." The cabbie was growing irritated
They blushed and got in the cab. It was smooth air plane riding for there on out. They were together for 6 hours. Those six blissful hours were filled with stories of Wesley's London and Sophia's Chicago.
"Oh please! The Cubs will win the World Series! It's the blasted goat. Only reason"
"Sophia, don't blame it on an animal"
"I'll take you to a game, and then British boy you'll get your ass handed to you" She warned
"When?" He chuckled
"When we're not busy saving the world. I'll buy you some Chicago pizza and we'll go to Buckingham Fountain and Navy Pier. Take a walk in Millennium Park while the sun is setting. If you'd like"
"See the Windy City as only a true Chicagoan could show me?"
"Precisely. My father loved it"
"Well, then. I'm sure I will too"
The plane ride felt like just another Thursday night, especially when the movie was the sob fest known as "A Walk to Remember "
"You love this movie?'
"Trust me. Every woman from the age of 14-34 has this in their collection"
"You don't"
"It's under my bed, so Angel and Gunn wouldn't find it. Anyway, it's priceless. No matter how cheesy it gets or how dramatic it seems. It still makes me weep."
They watched it together while Wesley inserted his comments
"What's his name?"
"Shane West"
"That's his real name?"
"No, I don't think it is"
"He reminds me of Angel a long time ago"
"Before the human traits?"
"Yes, when he first came to LA"
At the end Sophia teared up as she turned to Wesley.
"Huh, what's your reaction?" She said wiping the tears from her face
"Er--" It was
"Is that a tear Mr. Wyndam-Pryce?" She whispered.
"No" He got defensive
"It is. Oh it's ok Wes." She touched his cheek and laid her head on his shoulder.
"I'm ok. Are you tired?" Wesley moved on and saw her eyes glaze a bit
"If there were more men like you" She grew sleepy. She made her seat turn down to rest.
"I'm just gonna doze--" She whimpered and fell asleep on him. He saw her and rested his head on hers. He moved his seat the same way and fell into slumber.
"And Welcome to London--"
They woke up in a cuddle. Wesley had his arms around her as she was close in his chest.
"Oh no no"
"We're home" He told her. She got up slowly as she looked out the window.
"I guess we are"
They both let go of each other and rearranged themselves and their seats. Wesley got their carry-ons as Sophia grabbed hers. They walked off the plane and on to snow-covered London.
"I'm home" Wesley thought. The last time he went to Solstice, he felt determined that the next time he came he would bring the love of his life. And he did. They were greeted at the airport by a taxi sent by Bianca. Sophia couldn't help but be in awe by London. It was everything she dreamed of as a child, and everything her father told her it was.
"First time in London?"
"Hers. I was raised here"
"Oh of course Sir. You will adore it Miss"
"I all ready do" she looked at Wesley who smiled at her. He enjoyed just watching her eyes glitter as she saw the sights he was accustomed to. They arrived at Solstice where Sophia had to catch her breath. Wesley paid the cabbie as he unloaded the luggage.
"Thank you"
"Hope you young ones have a wonderful time" He said getting back in the taxi.
"It's exquisite, Wesley" She breathed. It was like every palace she read about. The garden blew her dreams about Versailles out of the water. The fountain seemed to be out of a Roman play. Everything was ten times more magnificent than she imagined.
"My mother will love that you said that" He remembered the pact he made with himself.
"You grew up here?" Her house in Spain was nothing compared to this Chambord
"My little corner of the world" Wesley thought sarcastically
"It was less warm as a child. Let's go inside"
They headed inside the entrance. Wesley put his hand on her lower back as he glided her toward the front door.
"Home?" She looked at him for his approval
"Now it is" He smiled at her.
Arriving at the front gate, Wesley pushed the intercom system.
"Hello?" It was the sweetest voice Sophia had heard since her mother.
"That has to be Bianca"
"Mother? It's Wesley"
"Your home! I'll get the door" Her excitement couldn't be contained.
"Mum will love her" He thought as he squeezed her hand
"I hope she likes me, and then loves me" Sophia wasn't one to go half way on anything.
The footsteps got closer as Sophia became more nervous. Finally, the door opened swiftly and showed a beautiful older woman.
"She looks familiar. Probably a photo Wesley showed me once" She knew that wasn't it, but she didn't have the time to go over her thoughts.
Bianca's bright blue eyes were pleased to see a lovely young woman with her son.
"Please, come in! Oh my dear son! How are you?" She embraced him fully as he laughed and kissed her head.
"I'm quite fine mum" She let go of him and focused on a smiling yet shy Sophia standing in the threshold with her purse in her hand. By Bianca's motion, Sophia stepped inside the house and joined Wesley.
"And this must be Sophia Avila. I'm so delighted to meet you." Bianca also pulled her into a hug, which surprised Sophia. Although it was unexpected, it felt right as if it was the way it would always be.
"I've wanted to meet you too for the longest time, Mrs. Wyndam-Pryce. Wesley, always tells me of how your love made him who he is" Sophia felt she could be candid with this woman.
"Call me Bianca. Well, I can see that you are your father's daughter. You remind me of him already"
"And your beautiful mother. The perfect image of her. Wesley told me you have her brains too, which doesn't surprise me. She doesn't know I knew her too. My poor Izzy. What happened to you, my friend? Now. My son and your daughter are together, just as we wanted. I just wish you were here to share it with me" There were many secrets Bianca had to tell both of them.
"That's a great compliment. Thank you" Bianca held Sophia's hands in sweetness.
Wesley was overjoyed that his mother and Sophia were getting along famously. His mother never really cared for Ginny because of her treatment of Wesley during his detachment from Angel when Darla came back. But Sophia sparked a sense of familiarity and acceptance in Bianca. He could tell his mother and Sophia would have a wonderful friendship and hopefully, if all went as seen, a wonderful mother/daughter relationship.
Bianca sighed and turned to Wesley.
"Well, lets go get settled and I'll let you in on the cases"
"Mother, do you want to tell us what happened first? I'm sure our luggage can wait" Wesley was now consumed with discovering the secret held by both his parents. It wasn't everyday you hear that something's been kept from you and you were about to uncover it.
"Wesley--" Sophia was about to tell him to calm down but saw the look of worry in his eyes and relented.
"All right. May we at least have tea first?" Bianca agreed
"Of course" Wesley said understandingly
"Chamomile for Wesley. Sophia what would you like?" Bianca turned to her and smiled
"Anything's fine" She said graciously
"Mint?" For a reason only she knew, Bianca already new her favorite flavor.
"Perfect" She smiled. The two followed her into the sunroom where they sat next to each other on the cream colored sofa. She left them to start the tea.
"That's odd, how did she guess?"
"Just like Izzy" Bianca took upon herself to keep the pact that she and Isabella had made long before they had children. It was one that they never spoke of to anyone else and that Bianca had buried with Izzy. She never knew of Isabella's daughter until Rupert had called her with a happiness in his voice only since heard when he was with Isabella. Then she knew of the woman that saved Rupert from his misery within, and that she was his daughter. Bianca was even more thrilled when Wesley had called to tell her Sophia was now working with him. She knew from the first time he said her name, he loved her.
Sophia and Wesley sat in silence as Sophia's wide eyes searched the place in awe. The light the poured into her hair and the way the house seemed to call for her presence. She belonged here in the new shell that Solstice was about to become
"This place is magical. Something about it screams familiar to me"
"She loves it already. That settles it, I have to tell her in London that I have feelings for her" Wesley had put it off long enough. After whatever they had to do, he would tell her everything.
"Sophia"
"Yes?"
"About today. I was going to tell you something else but--"
Just then Bianca came with a sliver platter of tea cups and crumpets.
"All ready. I'm having mint myself. There you are" She handed each cup filled with tea to them. They both thanked her as she sat down.
"Now the reason that I brought you here. It was three weeks ago when your father's final possessions were brought from the Watcher's council. I decided to go through and discard anything that would be considered not useful. That was when I came across an old file that seemed unimportant, but my curiosity got the best of me and I ended up looking through it. Something didn't seem right in this file. I saw that a demon by the name of Haltherian was used in some sort of dealings that your father took part in. I became even more disturbed when I searched his room and saw your father had a hidden compartment under the floor of his bed that held this" She got up and opened the drawer of a table by her. She pulled out a black leather book and handed it to Wesley
"It's an appointment book, but read it"
Wesley obeyed his mother while Sophia looked onward.
"December 14: 7 o'clock : Haltherian ritual. 567,000 pounds.
December 15: 8 o'clock: Sedgerhen ritual. 789,000 pounds. I don't understand"
"I didn't either, until I checked with some of his colleagues. Those two demons are used for--
"Of course, black market trading. But why would he be involved in that?"
"What the bloody hell did you do father?"
"I have no idea, which is why I need your help. I need you two to assume the identities of two deceased watchers. They were killed a week ago, but no one knows due to bad press"
"Why is it always someone who was killed and never announced?" Sophia was apprehensive but knew she had to do it.
"Who are they? Did I know them?" Wesley handed the book to Sophia to examine
"No, darling. They were a special division that young watchers never knew about."
"What division is that?" Sophia looked up from the address book.
"The special operations division. Roger left notes that indicated this division was held secret for work in the field. I have acquired two files with help from friends in the Watcher's council on the couple in question" The friend was Rupert Giles and it was after a long explanation. She handed two manila folders to Wesley and Sophia. Bianca still had her skills from her years as an investigator. That's what she was headed for until she married Roger and had her beautiful son.
"Wesley, you are Ridegford Kane. You have been with the Watcher's secret division since 2002, and are the youngest man in the division at the age of 28. You are well educated in the dark arts and are a trained fighter. Although you are respected, you are reclusive and tend to be an introvert"
"This shall be less difficult than I imagined" He thought
"Sophia dear, you are Idalina Santos Kane. You and Ridegford met in 2002 when you also joined the organization at the age of 27. You were born in America, so no worries about the accent"
"Ha beat ya, Wes" She whispered to him. He smiled at her and they back to business.
"You are trained in cults and are also a trained fighter. I think it's a regulation in the division."
"But how are we going to masquerade as them?"
"The only person that saw they're looks is dead. He was your father Wesley. No one else has seen them before"
"Oh"
"All right. I can do that"
"Now your personal life. Ridgeford and Idalina were put in sessions together and eventually became partners in the field. Idalina kept her feelings for Ridgeford as did he. They finally told each other the truth and married after one year. It was kept secret for fear of their enemies finding out he truth. I guess it caught up with them, because they were kidnapped and found dead. I met them once when they were on the run. Lovely people, Idalina especially, she was so kind and Ridgeford adored her. I housed them at a friend's request, but it was too late." Bianca's eyes showed her inner pain at loosing the couple
"I'm sorry Bianca" Sophia reached over the touched her hand
"Oh, it's all right dear. I just need to know why this is all happening. Will you two go undercover?"
"Of course" Sophia immediately responded
"Yes, anything mum" Wesley got up and kissed his mother on the head. She grabbed his hand and smiled.
"Thank you both so much."
"No need to thank. This is what we do. I want to know what happened to them too." Sophia became emotional too. She never did discover what became of Ana and Dimitri after Cordy closed the case, and this was her own way of closing it.
Wesley saw Sophia's response to the case and it's closeness to the Wood/Olivetti.
"Tonight is your debut as The Kanes. Howard Cates is having a formal party for all the organization and you two are invited to come. I want you to go in there and mingle and chat. In that time, try to get information from the people there on special cases. Be extremely careful, these people are always on alert."
"Oh blimy" Wesley thought
"Well, I'll be able to sense that before they do" Sophia said proudly
"Pardon?" Bianca was confused
"Yes, mum. Sophia is an empath"
"A special gift, just like your mum"
"That's perfect! That will aid you in tonight. Also, it's a formal dinner, that's why I asked you to bring dinnerware"
"Planned the whole thing?" Sophia smiled
"I want to ensure your safety tonight. Please you two, be cautious" They all got up after finishing the drinks and treats. Wesley stood behind his mother and Sophia as they walked to the entrance, where the driver left the baggage.
"Mum, we will" He assured her
"Please don't fret Bianca" Sophia was already protective of her.
"I trust you both. Now, why don't you retire to your rooms until 7:00. The dinner is at 8:00. Anything you need, don't hesitate to call." Bianca was always the most humble host.
"Thank you" Sophia tilted her head in acceptance
"Wesley will you help me guide Sophia to her room." It was Bianca's version of a 'this is your future' talk.
"I'll take your luggage, Sophia." Wesley offered
"No, that's not necessary" She bent down to pick it up and was stopped by Wesley's gentle touch.
"Rubbish, a gentleman always carries the luggage" He told her taking her suitcase. Bianca smiled on the couple.
"Here, follow me Sophia"
"Ok"
They all walked up the stairs and arrived at one of the many guest rooms.
"Here we are. The biggest and the loveliest. I stayed here when I was engaged to Roger. I adored this room, as I'm sure you will"
It was magnificent. The walls were a beautiful light blue color. The white curtains were draped aside to revel the terris that was covered in virgin snow and the sun that danced in the room. The whole room had vases of roses and was decorated by a Victorian feel of light blues and deeps reds. It was Sophia's perfect room.
"It's beyond my hopes." She said breathless
"I decorated it." Bianca said softly to Sophia
"It's lovely" Sophia turned around and caught Bianca's warm gaze. Just then Wesley came in with Sophia's bags
"All right, here they are" Wesley caught his breath and leaned on the cases.
"You know, you didn't have to lug it all the way" She crossed her arms
"I insisted" He said with some regret
"And I do know how stubborn you are" She smirked
"Not as much as you" He replied jokingly. She squinted her eyes and laughed. He looked at her and smiled.
"They are in love"
"Oh Wesley do you want to stay in your old room? I fixed another one up just in case you didn't" Bianca didn't want her son to uncomfortable
"I think I'll stay there this time" he was ready to let go of the past.
"Then I shall take you to your room, and this time I'll help. You need anything, my dear" Bianca walked over and hugged her.
"Welcome to Solstice"
"Thank you, both of you" She grabbed Bianca's hand and looked at Wesley.
"See you later tonight" Bianca walked towards the door when he knew her son and Sophia were having a moment.
"7:00 sharp"
"Bye Sophia"
"Bye Wesley" Sophia and Wesley didn't know it at the time, but everything was about to change for them that night.
Bianca left the room and decided to let Sophia and Wesley have one more moment of the loving look.
They finally removed each other's eyes as Wesley felt for his room. Sophia was left to fawn over the elegance of the room. She walked to the window and opened it to feel the cold from outside. She put out her hand to feel the snow and smiled at the sky.
"The beginning"
She thought then that the dream she told Wesley was going to come true.
Wesley stood at his window looking at the trees in the park covered in snow, and felt a breeze come from the north that comforted him. The snow reminded him of her beauty and love.
"This day"
They both stood looking out the windows at their futures.
In the Next Chapter: Dinner and dancing. Take away the whole threat of dying and this could be considered a beautiful first date for Sophia and Wes. But hey, who's better at playing a young married couple in love than these two? Feelin like you're needing a person to hate as much as you hated Leigh Pearson? Oh look it's the despicable Howard Cates. There ya go! Love, demons, and Snow collide as a major revelation becomes revealed. It's been a year in the making. Oh you guys are good guessers! Read and Review ! Oh and as I promised because school is coming up I've decided to give you two chapters next week that will make up for no chapter for a while.