She found Angel shadowed in the darkness outside of the hotel. She grinned as she saw him standing there, trench coat on, hands in his pockets looking every bit the creature of the night, despite his now beating heart.

"Old habits die hard," he explained at her raised eyebrow. "Still getting used to being allowed in the sunlight. Don't know if I'll ever fit into this world."

"I'll help you." She promised him, taking his hands. "We'll do it together."

"I'm scared," he admitted. "It was easier when Connor hated me. It was easier knowing that I would always love you, but could never have you."

"Easier, but not better." She agreed. "It's gonna be hard Angel, but we'll make it work."

"We will." He vowed. Leaning in, he kissed her tenderly. "I can do anything as long as you're with me."

"Flattery will get you everywhere." She teased. Looking back, she saw Dawn waiting at the door. She knew she didn't have long. "Angel do me a favour and reconcile with Wesley. Get passed his pride. He needs you guys, and you need him. You're family."

"I know." Angel said with a sigh. "I will do my best."

"Looks like the Dawnster's ready to leave," she said heavily. She allowed herself one more moment to look into Angel's no longer haunted gaze. "I'm really gonna miss you."

"You'll be back," he said lightly, but she could see the emotional effort in his eyes as well. "We're gonna get our happily ever after someday."

"Do me a favour Angel?" She looked up at him worriedly. "Don't do anything too heroic OK? I don't want anything to happen to you. You're only human now and..."

"Don't worry Buffy I'm not going to throw myself into situations I can't handle." She looked down, feeling ashamed for bringing it up. His finger lightly caressed her cheek, bringing her gaze back to his. "I'm not him. You do the same though OK? You may be the slayer, but you're not invulnerable."

"I know," she whispered. "I've got help. You know that."

"I do." Leaning in, he kissed her once more. "I love you."

"I love you too." Sighing, she stepped back and motioned for Dawn to come out.

"Done with the smoochies?" Dawn said brightly. Buffy smiled, her gaze still locked on Angel's and nodded. Dawn gave an exasperated sigh. "Can we go now?"

"Yea," Buffy replied with a new light in her heart. "Let's go."

-THE END