Hello! This is the longest chapter so far and I am sort of proud of it because it actually looks like a real episode :) Anyway, due to work and other things going on I might be a little late with the next upload but at least you have this very long chapter to keep you company!

Feedback is always welcome!

PS: Some of the scene breaks (the usual long line) won't work on some parts...don't know why. So very sorry about that!

8. Original Episode for Angel Series between 2x18 Dead End & 2x19 Belonging

Title: "In Arms"

"Are you sure you don't need my help with all this?" asked Cordelia as they all crowded Wesley's office. No visions as of yet and they were facing quiet times…well most of them were. Wesley was fixing everything they needed to be an official investigation agency. Angel hadn't minded getting permits and licenses for everyone during the first time around but when he had fired all of them, the three humans needed to get licensed and be accredited for their business to work.

During that time, Wesley had Virginia's help with wiggling through a lot of the different offices who handles these things and Wesley managed to get a license for being a private investigator and a permit to carry a gun.

Now that he was back on the Council's payroll, Wesley had a lot of push and pull with the Council's many contacts. He wanted Angel Investigations to be a true and proper private investigation agency and pay his friends the proper amount.

Which one main reason why Cordelia was insisting she helped.

"I'm the real person who runs the office," offered Cordelia. "So shouldn't preparing office expenses be my job."

"Not when it's my money you're going to be using," said Wesley as he wrote something down. With what the Council was paying him, plus the retroactive pay he had received…they were going to be alright for the next few months. But Wesley needed to budget it properly.

"I'm not going to put all the money of my pay check you know," said Cordelia, as though offended.

"Yeah just most of it," said Gunn crossing his arms in front of him. "Do you think you could get me a license as well?"

"I'll try," said Wesley, as he noted another thing to do. "I'm pretty sure carrying a gun is something not on your list."

"I'm more of an ax wielder guy, Wes," said Gunn. "How about you?" He looked at Angel who was standing back and letting the humans talk.

"He already has one," said Wesley. "A license for private investigation that is, which still shocks me on how he got it."

"I could have gotten you one you know," said Angel.

"Yes well during that time you were still being a jerk," said Cordelia, as she turned back to Wesley. "Do we really need to pay Angel? He doesn't really have a life. I mean he's dead. He doesn't eat, he lives here…he has no use for money."

Angel glared at Cordelia and was shocked to see Gunn nodding his head. "Hey! I eat. I just don't need it that much as you."

"He needs to buy his stock of blood," said Wesley. "Plus for our contacts who need it to jog their memory, plus maintenance for the hotel and his car." Cordelia looked at Wesley surprised. He was truly acting like a real and proper head of an agency. "Is there anything we haven't done for the hotel? Is it truly ours already?"

"Everything's alright," said Angel. "Nobody really cares about this place from the beginning."

"Alright," said Wesley, scratching that from the list he needed to do. "In that case, finalize permits for the agency, Gunn's license, and agency budget. What about you Cordelia do you want a license as well?"

"No, but I can really help you with the budget, Wes," said Cordelia, her voice changing.

"Yeah, maybe we could all help with that," added Gunn and Angel noted their change of demeanor. With that list of things to do, Angel knew Wesley was going to stay in his office until morning, not going home and not sleeping. Gunn and Cordelia were still shadowing him, especially since he was just recently cleared a-ok from his gunshot wound.

"With you here it's going to be a debate and will take much longer," said Wesley, not looking up from the stack of papers he had on his desk. "I'll be fine by myself. You should all head home. We might not this peace and quiet for long."

At this he looked at each and every one of them, "I won't work myself throughout the night, I promise. Go."

The trio looked at each other reluctantly then back at their boss then nodded. Cordelia and Gunn bid their goodbyes as Angel stayed behind.

"Get some sleep Angel."

Angel shook his head as Wesley did not raise his head from his desk. "Just call me if you need anything."

"Of course," which Angel understood as not a chance. He made his way upstairs as Wesley prepared himself for a long night.


Angel was laying across the lobby sofa when Gunn and Cordelia arrived the following morning.

"Morning," greeted Gunn. "Has Wes arrived yet?"

Angel motioned with his head to the office door which was closed.

"He didn't leave," said Cordelia, stomping to the office and opening it hard only to stop dead in her tracks at the image in front of her.

"Yeah, that stopped me too," said Angel from the lobby as Gunn peaked from Cordelia's shoulder.

Wesley had fallen asleep over his table. His head resting on one arm and the other, holding his glasses. Cordelia and Gunn quietly backed out of the office and closed the door without a sound.

"Shouldn't you have, oh I don't know, forced him to go home?" turned Cordelia to Angel. "He's just recovered!"

"I went down every two hours, Cordy," said Angel. "Wesley finally got annoyed and threatened to put a curse on my room to not let me out if I annoyed him any further."

"Shouldn't we at least lay him down on a bed or something?" asked Gunn. "Sleeping like that isn't exactly comfortable."

"Light sleeper," both Cordelia and Angel replied.

"One move and he's going to wake up," added Cordelia. "Hell, even us talking here might already wake him up."

"Which is why we should keep quiet," said Angel.

"No," said Cordelia, rather strongly. "Which is why we should wake him and force him to go home."

"That's not going to work and you know it," replied Angel finally sitting up on the sofa.

"Yeah well with one look you always cave when Wesley is concerned," argued Cordelia. "He can't do anything when it's me."

Angel looked offended and turned to Gunn to back him up. "No way, man. I'm more scared of her than of you. She rules."

"Damn right," said Cordelia, marching back to the office and opening the door just as the door to the Hyperion opened and admitted a tall well-built man who looked to be in his late-thirties. He had piercing grey-eyes and unruly short black hair that stick out all over the place. Another thing was, he had an overnight bag on him.

"I'm sorry," he began, his British accent more evident than that of Giles or Wesley as far as Cordelia was concerned. "But I'm looking for Wesley Wyndam-Pryce."

A commotion was heard inside Wesley's office as the man had woken up and immediately stood up, knocking a few books from his desk as he hurried out of his office and looked at the man. "Rick! I'm so sorry. I've lost track of time."

The man, Rick, shook his head as he came up to Wesley and swallowed him in a hug. "You weren't at the airport and at your apartment. One could only guess where else you could be." They broke apart. "Please tell me you haven't been keeping late nights when you've just recovered."

"I'm fine," said Wesley, rolling his eyes but a smile playing on his face. Then his eyes went wide. "We should probably be off…I can't believe that is the time." He rushed back inside his office and grabbed his coat.

"Uh, Wes?"

Wesley ran back to the lobby with coat in one hand and an embarrassed look on his face. "Sorry." He turned to the man. "Introductions. Everyone, this is my older brother, Richard Wyndam-Pryce II."

"Rick, please," said the man extending a hand to Cordelia. "You must be Cordelia Chase. Wesley has told me a lot about you. Well of everyone for that matter." He turned to Gunn. "Gunn, I believe?" Gunn nodded and shook the man's hand. He then turned to Angel. "And the vampire with a soul."

Angel got up and shook the man's hand. "Watcher?"

"Oh heaven's no!" said Rick, disgust showing on his face. "I never wanted that life and how I wished that Wesley didn't. I'm glad he's finally found his senses."

"Rick's an army doctor," said Wesley. "Well, he's retired now and is just a medical doctor." He looked at his watch once again. "We should probably head out." He turned to Angel. "May I borrow your car for a short time? I can't really ask my brother to ride my motorbike…"

Angel tossed him the keys. "Just don't thrash it or let someone steal it."

"Thanks," said Wesley with a smile. He turned to the rest. "I'll be back, just have to take care of a few things."

"Take all the time you need," said Angel as the two left.

"Wow," began Cordelia. "Ok, where has that man been all my life?"

Angel couldn't help but roll his eyes. "You had a crush on Wesley when you first saw him and now his brother."

"Wesley is a dweeb, lack of a better term," said Cordelia. "His brother is a whole different story."

"Looked a lot older than English," said Gunn. "Give or take a decade older, Cordy. I'm pretty sure not you're type."

"Yeah, imagine, Giles," said Angel and which made Cordelia put on a disgusted look. "Maybe we could clean up shop and do some inventory." He walked up to Wesley's office and picked up a few books. "Pull on some of the weight around here."

Cordelia rolled her eyes as Gunn took some of the books. "Gunn and I can. You are the most unorganized creature that has ever lived…considering your job requires so much research."

"Hey, I'm good at research," said Angel. "Wesley always assigns me a book or a prophecy which he doesn't assign to anyone."

"That's because he knows it'll occupy you long enough for us to find out what we're looking for," said Gunn as he placed the books on the counter and began looking through them. "It's either you mess up the research by being impatient and start disrupting all the things he's cross-referenced."

Angel glared at them as he went to the weapon's cabinet. "Alright then you do the inventory for the books and I'll do the weapons."

"I think you hurt his feelings," said Cordelia with a smile as she placed her bag on her desk.

"Maybe I should buy him a bottle of blood and put a ribbon on top to make up for it," said Gunn, holding back his laughter.

"I can hear you!"


"I'm really sorry," said Wesley as they drove to his apartment. "Maybe you should call her and tell her we're going to be a little late."

"I'm sure she would have an inkling about these sort of things," said Rick. "After all she does understand your job more than you give her credit for."

"I know, I know…" began Wesley, as they arrived back at his apartment. "I just…well I ruined the day she had planned for you."

"For the three of us, Wes," began Rick as they got out of the car and went upstairs to Wesley's apartment. "I'm guessing Cordelia had a vision?"

"No, actually. It's more organizing the office paper work," replied Wesley as they walked. "Who knew that being the one in-charge entailed more paperwork than I can ever imagine."

"Yeah," replied Rick. "Try being a doctor and your paperwork makes mountains."

"Here we are," said Wesley opening his door. "It's not much…"

Rick couldn't help but be awed. "Not much? Wes, this is grand. It's like being back home."

Wesley's apartment really felt like home to Rick who had been in America for quite some time now. Luckily, a friend from the army was thinking of putting up a practice in London and wanted to have another doctor on the roster. Rick welcomed the idea of heading home. He had been in America for quite some time now, ever since he graduated and had earned his MD.

"Glad you feel that way," said Wesley as he tossed his keys on the nearby stand. "I'll just clean myself up and we'll be on our way. Please call her, Rick and of course make yourself at home.

Rick nodded as his younger brother disappeared into his room. Rick studied the numerous books scattered throughout the apartment. His brother had not changed one bit. Sure he was more independent and Rick couldn't help but smile at that

Rick was the one that welcomed Wesley from the airport as he had arrived in America. He wished he had driven Wesley to Sunnydale so he could have had a better life in Sunnydale. But when Wesley told him he got fired, Rick had to breathe a sigh of relief. Rick never wanted the life of a Watcher and he wished the same for his younger brother. But Wesley wanted to be one so badly…he loved the idea of spells and good vs evil.

When Rick ran away at the age of 15, he wished he could bring Wesley along but Rick knew he couldn't give Wesley the life he wanted. He wanted to be out there, using magic, helping young girls stop vampires and apocalypses. Rick just wanted to spite his father.

Being the eldest, Roger Wyndam-Pryce had a lot of things planned for Rick which Rick had immediately accepted but then he grew up. When Rick found out that he was going to have a younger brother, he had seen it as an escape from his destiny…of being just like his father. But when Rick first saw Wesley, the brotherly overprotectiveness was too much not to ignore. Rick loved Wesley and wanted to protect him from everything the world had to offer.

But as much as he wanted to protect Wesley, Rick wanted Wesley to have the life he knew his brother wanted. A life filled with magic. So when he decided to leave…he decided that it was better for him to do it alone and leave Wesley behind. Something he regretted. Rick knew what their father did to Wesley and wished he could have spared his brother from such suffering. But Wesley was too kind and too good to even be angry at his older brother. Wesley was just glad to see Rick and the fact that their father was on the other side of the ocean was another bonus.

Wesley and Rick corresponded rather frequently for the past two years. Letters, phone calls, occasional visits from Wesley to San Diego where Rick stayed. Rick had never went to Los Angeles and this was his first time. It was all mainly Wesley's fault and of course her fault…Rick had to fight back a smile. Trust Wesley to be the one to introduce him to the love of his life.

"You didn't call her did you?" asked Wesley as he stepped back to the living room, his hair a bit damp and wearing a fresh set of clothes. "She will kill us."

"I'm sure she doesn't mind," said Rick. "Come on," he picked up the car keys. "You tell me when to turn. I'll drive."


"Why does Wesley have so many books?" complained Cordelia as they managed to take a thorough inventory of maybe a quarter of the books they have.

"And we're just only on books," said Gunn. "We still have scrolls and other papers. How the hell does Wesley find whatever reference he wants when he's in here?"

"Personal library," said Angel, who Cordelia and Gunn finally asked for help seeing as they didn't know some of the languages. "Watchers usually have all these in their mind and just need to double-check. They know their own libraries from top to bottom."

"Then why are we doing this again?" asked Gunn, shelving another book.

"We lost some of the books when our previous offices were bombed," said Cordelia. "Wesley has been telling me that he needed to know which books he still has or not but he hasn't really had the time to do it."

"Some of these are also Angel's," continued Cordelia standing up and grabbing some more books. "We'd be really helping Wes out by doing this for him."

"You guys should really give him some space," said Angel, taking a few more books and shelving them. "He's alright."

"Yeah but he's delicate," said Cordelia, going back to her computer and making a virtual database for all their books and resources. Angel walked over to her.

"You're not going to lose him, Cordy."

Cordelia sighed and turned to him. "Angel, an exploding building almost fell on him. Then he gets shot."

She stood to lean on the lobby counter. "Not to mention getting bitten by that demon we decided to take on when you fired us. Now he's a lightning rod of magical powers everywhere…"

"I know how you feel," said Gunn joining them. "I mean I always thought Wes was someone who I needed to protect. He was the guy you needed to do the research and stuff but he wasn't the one you needed to be muscle." He turned to Angel. "But we've fought with him even when he was injured and the man just doesn't know when to give up."

"It's like he's still trying to prove himself," said Cordelia to Angel. "I hate seeing that. Haven't we established already that he's an important part of our team? That we aren't like those jerks in Sunnydale who didn't give a damn about him?"

Angel saw the way Cordelia and Gunn looked at him. Angel knew that they wanted him to talk to Wesley, to get him to realize that there was nothing he needed to prove to them.

"I've tried telling him that Cordy," began Angel. "Wesley's just…Wesley. No matter how many times we've told him that he's done everything he could or he's done the best he can…he still thinks that there were things he could have done better."

"Where did he get that, anyway?" asked Gunn.

Cordelia scoffed and Angel glared at her. "It's not in our place Cordelia."

"Yeah well if daddy Pryce ever sets foot in L.A.," began Cordelia sitting down and murdering the keyboard with her anger. "He better pray he doesn't cross my path."

By the look on Gunn's face, he understood the placed anger. "Sometimes, I wonder…" began Gunn.

"What?" asked Angel, sitting down on one of the chairs in the lobby.

"Which is better, having not so great parents around or having good parents who die to early," said Gunn walking up to Angel. "I mean seeing her react like that…I'd say Wes' old man was someone I might just punch square in the face. But would I tell English that 'hey at least your parents are alive' and would that give him assurance?"

"Wesley won't even think about that," said Angel. "No matter what Roger Wyndam-Pryce ever did to Wesley, Wesley still loved the man. I don't even understand how that's possible…but then again that's Wesley."

"People should be able to put their parents on auctions or somethings," said Gunn. "Or even have permission to give them away or disown them."

"Oh how I wish that's possible," said a familiar female voice and both Angel and Gunn turned around to the lobby doors as Cordelia stood from the table to see Virginia Bryce on the stair landing. "You could have mine."


Wesley and Rick arrived at the restaurant where they were supposed to meet someone. Seeing as though they were very late, both men thought that they would be greeted by one very angry woman. To their surprise she was nowhere in sight.

"I told you, you should have called," said Wesley as the waiter asked around if the woman was here and if how long ago she had left. "I'm pretty sure she's about ready to bite our heads off."

"I don't think so," began Rick, but added as an afterthought. "She'll bite your head off but she loves me too much to do me any physical harm."

"So you won't mourn the loss of your younger brother?" asked Wesley, an eyebrow raised.

"I did say physical harm remember," pointed Rick with a smile. "She'll torture me emotionally."

"For a tall and well-built man, Rick," began Wesley as he saw the waiter come up to them. "You are one whipped gentleman."

Rick glared at him. "When you find someone, you are going to regret those words."

"Gentlemen," began the waiter. "The lady was here but left about half an hour ago. She did not cancel your table though. Would you still be using it?"

The brothers looked at each other. "What do you think?" asked Wesley.

"I'm pretty sure she's looking for us," said Rick. "Might as well cancel it and eat somewhere else."

Both brothers nodded and decided to leave but a thought came to Wesley and he went back to the waiter. "Did she order anything?"

"Actually," began the waiter. "She ordered plenty and took it with her."

Wesley groaned. If she did that, she could only be heading to one place.

"She's back at Hyperion?" asked Rick.

"No other place," said Wesley. "Virginia was always up for feeding us."

They got back to Angel's car, this time Wesley driving at break neck speed.

"So since we are going to be murdered in a few minutes," said Rick turning to Wesley. "How are things?"

Wesley snorted and kept his eyes on the road. "Who told you?"

"Mom," said Rick. "Can't really blame her. She's very worried about you."

"Yes, well I'm very worried about them," voiced Wesley as they drove.

"If you ask me they should just split already," said Rick.

"Rick!" said Wesley in surprise but not turning to his brother. "Your parents are on the brink of separation and you are suggesting that mother take the plunge."

"My opinion, Wes," said Rick, not at all surprised by his brother's stance. "Besides, mum won't do it. She doesn't want that kind of attention on her and on father. If you think about it, her solution is quite good."

"Yes," said Wesley sarcasm lining his voice. "Sure, living under the same roof but barely talking to each other is the best solution there is for a married couple who have been together for about 40 years. Greatest solution anyone can think of."

"They've had their difference even before Wesley and you know that," said Rick. "The only reason why mother put up with him is because she didn't want him to take out his anger on you."

Wesley remembered all those times he was sent to the cupboard under the stairs…and how his mother had tried to sneak him out and back to his room, how his mother would then reassure him that everything will be alright. But then the happy memory would turn south as he also remembered how his parents fought about how to bring him up.

"I still think they can fix this," said Wesley. "I mean would you want your children knowing that their grandparents lived in different places?"

"Be difficult since I would only be acknowledging one," said Rick and Wesley sighed. "Don't even try and defend him Wesley. You of all people shouldn't. I still don't understand how you can talk about the man without any kind of resentment."

Wesley remained quiet as they drove.

"Besides he's always at the Council and mother's busy managing her book shop," continued Rick. "They hardly see each other. Mother has so much patience letting him live under her house which is rightfully hers to begin with."

"You really expect me to believe that this is the best solution for them?" asked Wesley.

"Well it is so far," said Rick. "I mean they don't drive each other crazy. They basically ignore one another. The only ones who might be inconvenienced by this arrangement is the staff back home but Mr. and Mrs. Gregerson have told me that everything is basically quiet."

"So basically my parents are living under the same roof, not talking to each other, going about their own business," said Wesley. "That should be good for me isn't it?"

"Wesley…" began Rick. "I know you wish things were different—"

"What I don't get is why do you think this is alright?" demanded Wesley. "I'm sorry to say this Rick but you were gone a long time. I saw that both mother and father loved each other, cared for each other…there were tough times, sure they shouted but I saw the compassion in their eyes…their deep affection for each other. I'm sorry I'm the only one who wants to save that."

Rick looked at Wesley and saw how angry and disappointed his younger brother was. "You're right. I wasn't there and maybe father did love mother…but we can't solve this one for them, Wes."

"I know," began Wesley, defeated. "I just wish I could do something…"

The brothers settled into silence as Wesley continued to drive.

"Anyway," began Rick after a minute or so. "We were talking about you."

Wesley snorted. "Mom's really worried about you Wesley."

"When's the last time you talked to her?" asked Wesley.

"This morning," answered Rick. "She wanted to make sure I see that you were alright before I head to London. Made sure you were ok and weren't so bothered by all this new things in your life."

"Are you implying I'm paranoid?" asked Wesley. "Because I am not worried. I'm perfectly alright. I mean sure there's the threat that demons know but I'm sure we can handle that…the possibility of them attacking when I'm by myself is of course there…I mean…I'm not 100% safe anywhere I would assume…"

"You should really start looking up protection spells for your home and office if you're going to be so paranoid." pointed Rick as his brother rambled.

"This coming from the man who didn't want to have anything to do with the Watcher world," said Wesley with amusement lining his voice. "And I am not paranoid."

"That wasn't what the demon in the hotel told you if I remember correctly," said Rick with a smile.

"Do you really want to fly back to London in one piece or black and bruised," asked Wesley. "I'll have you know I've learned a few good moves."

Rick raised his arm surrender. "I'll shut up now. Just…" began Rick, his voice all serious which made Wesley look at him. "I know you're this great and powerful warlock…just take it easy and be careful. You may be the greatest sorcerer that's ever lived but you're also my younger brother. And your older brother is very protective."

Wesley smiled and turned back to the road. "And paranoid." Which earned him a light punch from his older brother. "I will Rick. Don't worry about me."

"Can't help it."

"Always have to have the last word."

"Of course."


"Are you sure?" asked Cordelia as they ate the food Virginia brought with her.

"Oh of course!" said Virginia, drinking a soda. "It's the least I could do. Besides what are friends for anyway if you don't abuse and use their connections."

Cordelia squealed and hugged Virginia. "Oh I can't believe this. I might just be an actress after all! Thank you Virginia!"

Both Gunn and Angel groaned as Cordelia rummaged through her things for her headshots. Virginia had offered to recommend Cordelia to some of her ad agency friends who were in need of someone for their commercials.

"So besides Cordelia's Hollywood dream, what brings you here Virginia?" asked Angel. He had declined the offer of food but took the bottle of beer she had brought with her. Being an Irishman, Angel could never really decline something like beer, especially a good kind.

"My father is at it again if you can believe," said Virignia. "I was actually supposed to meet Wesley and tell him about it but things sort of escalated so I opted to come here." She studied the surroundings. "And I'm guessing he's not here also."

"He's brother came to visit," explained Gunn. "He might have forgotten. What's your old man doing know?"

"I'm sure he didn't forget," said Virginia, her voice playful. "Anyway, my old man has been ordering vampires and other creatures on my tail."

"Why?" asked Angel.

"Well," began Virginia. "I've decided to move to England and make a life there. Most of the business ties I have here are international. I've decided to pursue the art sides of our businesses so I'm packing. My father wasn't so keen on me doing that of course. He still has the idea that I'm his little girl even after I have him a good punch during his birthday."

"Maybe he's still thinking of a way to use you to get magical powers," said Cordelia.

"Why he won't let you out of his grasps," said Angel. "When do you leave?"

"Actually day after tomorrow," said Virginia. "I'm just waiting for someone and I'm all clear. All my stuff are already there."

"Who are you waiting for?" asked Cordelia but the answer was interrupted by the arrival of the Wyndam-Pryce brothers. Wesley, voicing an apology on repeat.

"I'm so sorry," said Wesley running up to Virginia, panting. "My fault. Didn't notice the time. In my defense, I told him to call you."

"And he didn't," said Virginia, glaring at Rick. "It's alright Wes. I decided to order out. Hungry?"

"Famished," said Rick as they kissed to the shock gasped of Cordelia and surprised looked of Gunn and Angel.

They pulled apart and Virginia turned to Wesley. "You haven't told them, have you?"

"Sorry," offered Wesley.

"Stop apologizing Wes," said Virginia, giving him a look.

"Sorry," began Wesley but caught himself. "I mean we've had a hell of a week." He turned to his friends. "Virginia was staying in San Diego a couple of months ago and she didn't have anyone who could protect her from her father's goons so I called Rick. I always knew they'd be a good match."

"Were you that eager to get rid of me?" asked Virginia, feigning being insulted with a smile.

"Or was that eager for me to have a wife," said Rick. "And him to be an uncle."

"They're flight to London is tomorrow," added Wesley. "I'm pretty sure Bryce knows that and he might just have a master plan for tonight to keep them from going. I've asked them to come here so we could protect them until they leave."

"How sure are you that he's not going to come after you in London?" asked Angel.

"Because he'll be up against an entire magical community," said Rick. "I may not be a watcher but I've got contacts in high places."

"There may not be a need for that," said Wesley, as everyone turned to him. "Bryce's influence is because of his wizardry. We take that away and he no longer poses a threat. Just a greedy businessman that can be leashed with a restraining order."

"Oh that's in the works," said Virginia. "I'm not sure of the former, though."

"I have a plan," said Wesley with a smile as he turned to his office and was shocked. "What in heavens happened here?"

"We were trying to organize our database," said Cordelia all of a sudden as the trio exchanged worried glances. "Like what you've wanted to do ever since we moved here."

"Oh," said Wesley, then he smiled. "Thank you. You shouldn't have…I mean I am responsible for all the books and…"

"We wanted to help, Wes," said Gunn. "You should really let us."

"I…" Wesley was at a lost for words but smiled. "Thank you." He got the book he wanted and opened it to show Virginia. "I found something we could bribe your father with Virginia."

"Wesley! Is this for real?" asked Virginia, reading through the book. "I don't think this will even work."

"Yes," said Wesley. "But I'm not saying we perform this spell…just maybe use this knowledge to our advantage."


"Are you sure about this?" asked Wesley as he and Virginia made their way back to Wesley's apartment.

"Shush," said Virginia. "Do you have any other idea?"

Wesley wanted to say yes but Virginia's approach was the best option they had. He just hoped that Bryce wasn't on to their plans. Wesley opened his apartment door and let the door swing open. Nobody inside.

"Your brother's right, you are paranoid," said Virginia with a smile as Wesley glared at her.

"I'm cautious," said Wesley as he rushed to his bookcase. "I'm pretty sure I have it somewhere here…"

"Oh please do take your time," said Virginia, keeping lookout. "It's not like there's anything that'll be coming after us if you don't rush."

Wesley rolled his eyes as he looked over the books in his apartment. Virginia walked over to the windows, keeping an eye out to anything that might pose a danger.

Suddenly they heard a faint clap from the hallway. Wesley immediately went to stand in front of Virginia.

"My, my, my," began Bryce finally showing his face. "And here I thought you were a smart one, Wyndam-Pryce."


"So…" began Angel, trying to ease the awkward silence that had fallen as he was left with Rick. "How long have you been in America?"

Rick ignored him as he continued to read the books on the counter.

"Ok…" said Angel, trying to read his own share of books that Wesley had left. "Have you been in contact with Wesley long?"

Rick turned the page of the book and remained silent and Angel glared at him. "Look, I'm just trying to make conversation."

"We're supposed to be focused on something here," said Rick, his voice devoid of any emotion. "I don't really care if you wish it to be in a one-sided conversation but I prefer to work in silence."

"Listen pal," began Angel as he slammed the book closed. "From the moment you stepped foot into this hotel, I knew you had a problem with me so why don't you just spit it out and let's act civil when in front of Wesley."

"I have no ill-feeling towards you Angel," said Rick, again his voice plain as he focused on the book in front of him. But Angel slammed it shut.

"I don't think that's true," said Angel. "So why don't we just let the cat out of the bag already. What's your problem? Is it because he's working with a vampire? Is it because he's not back in England under daddy's watchful eye? Or is it because he's surpassed his older brother?"

Rick shoved Angel hard and Angel was surprised at the strength the man possessed. "You want to know what I don't like about you Angel. It's not because of what you are. It's not because Wesley is staying here and not back at home. It's not because Wesley regards you like an older brother…"

Angel was surprised by that last statement but stood his ground as Rick walked towards him. "Then what's your problem?"

"My problem is that my brother got hurt because of you," said Rick, anger lining his voice. "He's been working with you for long and he's been in the Intensive Care twice in under a year." He advanced on Angel. "When he told me he was working for you…I thought he would be safe. That Angel would protect the people who worked for him. But that changed when you fired them all."

Angel had to duck down his head to avoid the glare rick was giving him. Wesley had regarded Angel as a brother and then what did he do? Let them down, let him down.

"You're the reason why my brother got hurt," accused Rick. "He trusted you, Angel. He put his whole life in the line for you. And you treat that like it's nothing."

"I do not!" shouted Angel. "I value Wesley. I value all of them."

"One hell of a way to show it," hissed Rick.

"I made a mistake," began Angel, his voice changing. "But I am making up for it. Wesley's in charge now because I want to show him that I value his input. That it's his decision that matters." He paused and looked Rick straight in the eye. "I'm going to protect Wesley with my life, Rick. I'm not going to let anything happen to him."

Rick eyed Angel and nodded. "You better," started Rick as he went back to the books but turned to look at Angel. "Because if something happens to my brother and it's your fault or you're the main cause…watcher or not I will hunt you down and put a stake through your heart."

"Wouldn't have it any other way," said Angel as he walked over to the book he was reading. They remained silent after but it was comfortable silence.

Which was broken when Gunn and Cordelia arrived.

"What happened?" asked Angel, meeting them.

"Bryce has them," said Gunn.

"We need to hurry," added Cordelia.


"Quite a plan," said Wesley as he struggled with the ropes tired around his wrist.

"Would you please stop that," said Virginia whose wrists were also tied with Wesley's. "You're not going to loosen these ropes just as we're not going to be leaving for a while."

Wesley and Virginia were seated back to back in an abandoned warehouse. Bryce and his men were somewhere discussing things and Wesley was trying to find a way to escape.

"What do you suggest then?" asked Wesley, as he did stop trying to escape. "I for one do not have dying a horrible death on my plans for tonight."

"I don't think anybody will be dying tonight Wyndam-Pryce," began Bryce as he along with some of his vampire henchmen walked over to their two prisoners. "I mean if you just cooperate then nothing will happen."

"Oh I'm all for cooperating," said Wesley. "If it's your incarceration, I'll be more than happy too."

Bryce took a step closer to Wesley and glared at him. "My daughter is not leaving with you, Wyndam-Pryce. I'll make sure of that."

"And how will you make sure of that?" asked Virginia, taunting her father by imitating his speech.

"I'm going to take your free will," said Bryce.

"Oh why didn't I think of that," said Wesley. "By all means go ahead. And would you mind teaching me that, would come in handy for my next girlfriend."

Both Virginia and her father glared at Wesley but this did not stop the man for rambling on.

"No offense, but your daughter sure is a lot to handle," continued Wesley. "No wonder you wanted to sacrifice her. By all means, if you still can. Sorry about messing that part though."

"You should be," said Viriginia. "Who in their right mind would sleep with someone they had just met."

"You did!" accused Wesley.

"And like you haven't done so before?" asked Virginia. "Cordelia told me about that blonde girl who eyed you while you were playing darts. Is that the trick then? Just swoon over you and then you're in bed?"

"No!" answered Wesley, offended. "Besides, you are part of those who swooned over me, I would just like to point out."

"Do they bicker like this often?" whispered Angel to Rick as they watched from the sidelines. Angel counted about six vampires with Bryce and another two who seemed to be sorcerers. I'd be easy to pick them out one by one since the vampires were circling the perimeter. If they could be quiet, Bryce would be left standing by himself.

"No," said Rick. "This is the first time I've seen them act like this."

"It's like how English is with Cordelia," said Gunn which earned him a glare from Cordelia. "Hey, I'm not implying anything."

"Yes you were," hissed Cordelia. "You're going to hear a lot once we get back to the hotel, mister."

"It was brought about by the moment," said Virginia. "I have learned my lesson. Never fall for a guy who saved your life. The hero complex is so passé." She then glared at her father. "But I'm still disowning you."

"You are not leaving this country, Ginny." Said Bryce. "And you are not going to stop me this time, Wyndam-Pryce."

"No intention to," said Wesley. "I'm just going to sit here."

"Way to be the hero, Wesley," hissed Virginia.

"I never pretended to be a hero, Virginia," argued Wesley. "It's not my fault you regarded me with such esteem. Can't really blame you since you fell oh so very hard for me."

"You know you should be thankful that I am tied down," said Virginia. "Because once I have use of my arms you are dead, Wesley Wyndam-Pryce."

"Stop acting like you hate each other," snarled Bryce. "Nothing you will say will stop me. I know what greats lengths you went into saving her."

"Very true," began Wesley.

"Hey I saved your life too," argued Virginia. "Who stood by your bedside when you were at the hospital? Who looked after you? That was me…and a great way to repay me by breaking up with me. Smooth move, English."

"You said that everything was too much remember," fired back Wesley. "Who said she couldn't handle me getting hurt?"

"I just wanted you to take it slow," argued Virginia. "I didn't mean you should break up with me. Why are men idiots?"

"What?" asked Bryce. "You two aren't together?"

"No dad, 'breaking up' is a new term for we have sex on a day to day basis," said Virginia sarcastically. "Of course we are! Again, men…idiots!"

"But my information," began Bryce, glaring at two non-vampire henchmen he had.

"I think they were referring to me," said Rick jumping out of his hiding place as Angel, Gunn and Cordelia dusted the vampires closest to them. "Richard Wyndam-Pryce II, your daughter's current boyfriend and the brother of her ex-boyfriend." Rick dusted the vampire charging against him and the other vampires scrambled towards them.

Bryce lunged forward to Virginia but Wesley, who had managed to free his hands, tackled the man to the ground and gave him one good punch.

"We should get an award for that," said Virginia as she stood up. "No wonder you like acting Cordelia, there was a certain thrill to that."

"Yes that was fun," said Wesley with a smile. "When did Cordelia tell you about that…umm…encounter?"

"When we were at the hospital," said Virginia. "Knew it'd come in handy someday."

"Some plan," said Rick. "But please next time have a better or one that doesn't have me waiting for so long."

"Hey it was her plan not mine," said Wesley. "But we pulled a great bickering couple, Gin."

"You can say that again, Wes," began Virginia. "Well Cordelia did give me a lot of tips earlier."

"Well us girls need to stick together," said Cordelia, giving Virginia a hug.

Wesley knew that Bryce was waiting for a time to strike and wanted both Virginia and him. So Virginia had suggested them getting captured and the Gunn and Cordelia following them since there was still daylight. Once Gunn and Cordelia had their location they would pick up Rick and Angel and they would reverse the situation and capture Bryce.

Now as Bryce regained consciousness, he now was the one tied to the chair looking up at the serious faces of his daughter and the Angel Investigations Team.

"Glad you're up," said Virginia, getting into her father's face. "Listen here, daddy. When I told you, 'you are not my father anymore', it meant you lost the ability to tell me what to do." Virginia stopped. "Like you ever had that ability any way."

Cordelia and Gunn smiled as Wesley shook his head and Rick beamed with pride.

"I am going to London, and you have no say in the matter," began Virginia. "You will not attempt to follow me or have your friends or contacts or whatever sorcery you have under your sleeves follow me or interfere with my life because once you do…" Virginia motioned for Wesley to come closer. "Well I'll let Wesley explain."

"Seeing as Virginia's your daughter," continued Wesley. "I found an interesting little spell that transfers powers through kin…you wouldn't want that to happen to you, now, Bryce?"

Bryce glared at Wesley as he took a side-ward glanced at Virginia whose look challenged him to say anything. Bryce chose the right path and remained silent.

"The spell has been performed." explained Wesley as Bryce's eyes widened. "Except for the last part and I'm sure you know what I mean."

"The part where my daughter says the trigger word that will transfer my powers to her," said Bryce and Wesley smiled.

"I'm knew you would know the particular little spell," said Wesley. "Did your research about everything that might hinder your great powers, have we Bryce?"

"What do you want?" growled Bryce.

"For you to leave me alone," said Virginia, coming up to her father's face. "Make one move, I see one of your goons or feel one of your plans, I will mutter the last part of the spell and you will have nothing. No money, no empire, no powers...gee I wonder what your competitors would think about that?"

Bryce glared at Virginia then at Rick and remained silent.

"I am taking the part of our investments, which you don't even care about to begin with, and going to London to build a new life," said Virginia as Rick came to stand by her side. "You still have the other more profitable parts of the business so go ahead and live the rest of your life. But know this, make any attempt to ruin my life, and I ruin yours. And like I said before, you are not my father anymore. So stop acting like it."

Bryce's glare was still on his face but it had softened a bit and Angel thought that maybe Virginia's words had hurt the man a little. Bryce finally nodded and the team started to leave the warehouse. Wesley stayed and untied the man.

"That spell is a particularly powerful one," began Bryce as he stood and eyed Wesley.

"You want to wager if I've performed it or not?" asked Wesley, his voice challenging the man. "If I had my way, even my brother, you would have no more or your magical powers. Luckily for you, Virginia's holding the gun to your downfall."

Bryce bowed his head and Wesley couldn't believe the man's actions. Did he truly care for his daughter?

"Your brother will take care of her?" asked Bryce, still looking at the floor.

Wesley eyed the man but stopped himself from judging. Not all fathers were villains, some fathers could still redeem themselves.

"He will," said Wesley. "He will protect her with his life. He will protect her, even from you if it needs be."

"What I did," began Bryce, looking at Wesley. "I didn't just do for power…I needed to protect Virginia. I loved my wife and I lost her…to wizards and sorcerers who used my family against me."

"You wanted to sacrifice her to get more power!" accused Wesley. "I don't think you did a grand job of protecting her."

"I would have found a way to save her and get my opponents out of my way," shouted Bryce. "You don't know what it's like to live day in and out thinking that your only child will die. I didn't want to love her because it would have killed me if she had died before my eyes."

"And you think that justifies what you did?" demanded Wesley. "You had a child, Bryce. That child longed to be loved by you. You, as the adult, should have looked past the possibilities and focused on the present." Wesley stopped to let his words sink in. "And because of your actions, you have truly lost her. I can't say I pity you at all." With that, Wesley started to walk out of the warehouse.

"You shouldn't," said Bryce. "Do me a favor Wyndam-Pryce? When you have a daughter, don't do what I did."

Wesley stopped and stole a glance to Bryce. "I assure you, I won't." And with that, Bryce was all alone.


"So when are you really leaving?" asked Cordelia as they had a dinner celebration at the Hyperion.

"Well," answered Virginia. "Given that we've finished our business with my father, we're leaving tomorrow morning." She smiled at Rick who returned the gesture and leaned down to kiss her.

"My only regret is not being here when Cordelia gets her big break," said Virginia, raising her glass at Cordelia who smiled. As they returned from the business with Bryce, Cordelia had received a call about a part in a commercial that Virginia had recommended her for earlier that day and wanted Cordelia to audition.

"Have I thanked you for that yet?" asked Cordelia, smiling and hugging Virginia.

The four men smiled at the two and Rick turned to Wesley. "You going to be alright?"

Wesley rolled his eyes but a smile was on his face. "I doubt I need my older brother to look after me for my entire life, Rick. I'll be fine."

Rick looked towards Angel and Gunn and nodded. "I can see that you are, Wesley."

The two men hugged and patted each other's back. "Stay safe and take care, Rick."

"I should be telling you that, Wesley," replied Rick as they broke apart. "Don't think this is the last time you're going to see me." He stole a glance at Virginia. "If luck's on my side, you might just have to fly to London and attend a celebration."

Wesley smiled as both Angel and Gunn stared shocked at Rick. "Hey if you're with the one you take the plunge my friend," said Rick as he patted Gunn on the arm.

"Isn't that taking a things bit fast?" asked Gunn, still stunned.

"Like I said, she's the one," said Rick with a smile as he looked back to see Virginia also looking at him and they walked closer together. "Sorry to leave but we do have an early flight tomorrow. Thank you for all your help. And…" as he looked towards his younger brother. "For taking care of Wesley. I know I'm leaving him in capable hands." He addressed the last part to Angel who nodded.

Wesley scoffed, and everyone turned to him to see he had a smile on his face. "You make it sound like I'm a puppy or something."

"Well you do need all the TLC in the world," said Virginia going over to him and giving him hug. "Thank you for everything, Wes. I owe you big time."

"It's no problem, Gin." said Wesley as they broke apart. "What are ex-boyfriends for?"

"Introducing them to the love of their lives?" asked Virginia and Wesley smiled. He could Cupid a run for his money.


Giles couldn't believe he was hearing his own doorbell at that hour of night. His mind immdeaitely snapped into attention as the lateness of the hour could only mean a disaster of who knows and ran towards his door. He was surprised to see someone he hadn't seen for a close to 3 decades ago.

"Hello, Rupert," greeted Rick, his voice plain, devoid of any emotion.

"Rick…" replied Giles. He had last seen the older Wyndam-Pryce when he was 16 years old and Roger was showing his son the academy. He vaguely heard Roger Wyndam-Pryce inform his eldest son not to mingle with the likes of him as he was a Watcher with no future in store. The younger Wyndam-Pryce, to spite his father, immediately went up to the teenaged Giles and shook his hand. That was the last time he had seen Rick in person. He had heard that the man ran away from London and had built a reputation as an army doctor. He had no idea the man was in Los Angeles, let alone Sunnydale. "How did you get here?"

"Teleported," said Rick. "I may not be a Watcher and have no interest in magic and spells but I learned a thing or two for my own sake. When you have a last name of Wyndam-Pryce, you tend to inherit enemies."

It was said like a joke but both men weren't laughing. "I need to speak with you. This has been long overdue. Something I should have done 2 years ago." Giles did the math and Rick meant the time when Wesley first arrived in Sunnydale.

"Of course," said Giles as he stepped aside to let the man walk in. He was relieved that the man didn't bounce off from an unseen barrier and was able to enter his household without an official invite, meaning the man wasn't a vampire. "Tea?"

"No, thank you," said Rick. "I'll be leaving quickly. I just needed to straighten things…I'm heading back to London in a few hours."

"Really?" said Giles, feigning interest as he motioned for Rick to sit down.

"Mother has been going through tough times and I am starting a new life with the woman that I love," said Rick. "I wanted to make up to mother after leaving 23 years ago. Just as much as I am making up to Wesley." At this he glared at Giles. "We both know what I want to say Rupert."

"Might as well say it, then," replied Giles, his voice not betraying his regret and guilt.

"How's the slayer doing?"

"She's a person Rick and she has a name," snapped Giles, his voice changing.

"Yeah well Wesley was a person too and looked what you lot did to him," fired back Rick and Giles felt like someone splashed him with cold water.

"I've wanted to come up here and beat some sense into you the minute I first talked to Wesley over the phone," continued Rick, his voice filled with anger. "He didn't say anything but his tone was all I needed to know what was going on." He glared at Giles. "And here I thought that you were different from them all…but you are just like the rest of them. Has a stake so far up your arse…thinking you are all mighty and powerful and people like Wesley don't have a proper place in this world."

"I was filled with my own self-pity at that point, Rick," said Giles, regret lining his voice. "I assure you it's not a good reason at all…but I am glad for this second chance."

Rick scoffed and glared at Wesley. "Yeah well I'm not. If I had my way, you and Angel will not have any part in my brother's life."

"Well it's not your life is it now?" asked Giles, his voice showing his own protectiveness of Wesley. "You don't dictate what he can and can't do."

"Yes, I can't," began Rick. "But I can protect him."

Rick stopped and sighed. "When I first heard he was arriving in America, I saw it as my own second chance. I didn't want him to love the life of a Watcher but Wesley was such an optimistic little squirt that he relished in that idea…of saving the world…of using magic. My fault really…I introduced him to Merlin and King Arthur." Rick smiled at that and Giles found himself smiling as well. Rick stood and walked over to the window.

"For the past two and a half years," continued Rick. "I've been given a chance to be his older brother again, to protect him. But even in that I failed. Wesley was in ICU twice in less than a year and where was I? Living the life I wanted miles away. And now I'm abandoning him again."

"But," continued Rick. "I think I can at least have some assurance that somebody else will protect him."

He turned to Giles. "Like I told Angel, my brother trusts you, cares about you. He would do anything to protect you. Don't mess it up by doing that again."

"Doing what exactly?" asked Giles, he thought he knew the answer but Rick surprised him again.

"Act like our father," said Rick, his glare back on his face. "You hurt him the most, Rupert. You being all English and showing your disappointment at everything he did. You basically telling him that he was a coward and a failure and he had no place in Sunnydale."

Giles opened his mouth to speak but found he had no words. Rick was right. During Wesley's stay in Sunnydale, he had done the man wrong and now he had learned what it must have been like for Wesley to live in a different place only to find the same treatment he had thought wouldn't follow him as he left London.

"Against my better judgement," continued Rick, sitting back down. "The two people who can protect my brother are the two people who've hurt him the most."

"I'm guessing you've talked to Angel as well," said Giles.

"Yes," began Rick. "I'm not a watcher. I don't know much about the magical community but I learned a few useful things to keep myself alive. I know how to cast simple spells, read Latin and stake a vampire. But I don't know how to protect my brother from what is to come." Rick looked at Giles. "But you and Angel do. You most of all seeing as you are the mentor. You know how to protect Wesley."

Giles looked at Rick and saw how much like Wesley he was. Determined, willing to do anything for the people he cared about.

"Believe me," said Rick. "If there were others, I'd go to them and won't give you or Angel a pass to even be a close distance to my brother. If I had my way, he'd go back to England with me. But Wesley is determined to help the helpless and protect the world."

"I know I might not win your trust tonight or any time soon," began Giles. "But believe me Rick. I will give my life to protect Wesley. I have been given a second chance to get to know the man and for the short period we have communicated…I've come to regret how I had treated him back then. I'm glad for this second chance."

"Good because it's the only chance you are getting," said Rick. "Neither you nor Angel will be getting a third." He stood up again and Giles did the same. "Listen here, Rupert. My brother gets hurt, either by your doing, either your intention or your failure to protect him, person with magical abilities or not, I will make you pay. I am a doctor and I know how to do it slowly and painfully."

Giles didn't flinch but nodded. "I'm not afraid of that because I would first give my life before Wesley gets hurt. You're not the only who wants to protect him and I'm sure Angel answered the same way."

Rick narrowed his eyes and turned on his heel. "I'm leaving him in your hands, Rupert." He then walked over to the door and opened it. "I already regret doing this but don't make Wesley regret it too." As Rick had a step out his door, he teleported and Giles was alone.

Despite having been threatened in his own home, Giles couldn't help but feel a little satisfied with what had transpired. Giles had never really thought about Richard Wyndam-Pryce II and have imagined that Wesley had no once who actually gave little affection towards the young man. But seeing how Rick was protective of Wesley told Giles how much the man cared for his younger brother. Just as much as Giles felt for Wesley recently.

Rick didn't trust Giles to protect Wesley but the older Wyndam-Pryce had no choice but to and Giles was just going to have to prove to Rick that he could do so.


Rick teleported to the hotel room he and Virginia had booked for that night. Virginia, upon hearing his arrival, stepped out of the bedroom and looked over at Rick as the man rubbed a tired hand over his face and sat down with a sigh on the sofa.

"How'd it go?" asked Virginia, sitting down next to him.

"Ok," began Rick. "I guess…"

Virginia looked her arm with Rick's as they both leaned back, practically laying down on the sofa. "From what I know, Rupert Giles is a man you can trust, Rick."

"Yeah and how did that go the first time," spat Rick. After a moment he shook his head, "Sorry, Gin. I'm just…Well…"

"Worried about what's going to happen, I know." said Virginia. "I was the same when Wesley got shot. I guess one big thing we have in common…feeling protective over Wesley."

Rick smiled and kissed the top of her head. "He's going to be fine, Rick."

"An older brother can't help but worry," said Rick. "Especially after what I did."

"He doesn't blame you for that," said Virginia, turning to meet his eye.

"He should," said Rick.

"But he doesn't," said Virginia, sitting up and looking Rick directly in the eyes. "Wesley understands why you left. He doesn't harbor any resentment…I don't think he has the ability too. Why Cordelia sometimes wants to smack him at the back of his head. Wesley…well…Wesley is…"

"Wesley." finished Rick. "Wesley is Wesley. No matter what he won't be angry at anyone…he looks at the things from their perspective and understands. Annoying habit of him actually…but something others could learn." Virginia nodded and smiled.

"I'm just…"

"I know," said Virginia, standing up. "I am too. But we can't kidnap him and bring him with us and place him under house arrest now can we."

"Really, we can't?" asked Rick with a smile which earned him a slap on the shoulder. "Just kidding."

"Wesley's going to be fine," said Virginia. "I've seen what his friends would do for me. Yes, even Angel. He's in safe hands, Rick. I promise."

Rick sighed and remembered what both Angel and Giles had told him. "I do believe you're right."