Part 16

It was already dark when they arrived at the "Red Dawn"-Club. Angel stopped his car and switched off the ignition. He turned and looked at the three people on the back-seat, Spike, Dru and Doyle: "I think we better wait a moment until Dan Lansky and his partner will arrive."

The three nodded and he turned back to the girl on his side. Buffy was biting on her lower lip. Angel reached out and took her hand: "You'll see, everything will be alright," he tried to assure her, although the fear was knotting his guts. He was surprised his hand didn't shiver.

She looked at him and tried to smile: "I know. I just hope he'll buy it and I can make him talk."

"You will," he replied, squeezing her hand. "I believe in you, Buffy. You've been so strong the whole time. You can do it. As Spike said it's the last chapter to close that book so you can move on."

"Move on," she laughed, but it didn't sound happy. "For six years I was only running away. I don't know if I still know what moving on is." She looked at their entwined hands: "Will you be still there? I mean when this is all over, will you stay with me?"

"If you want me to," he said. "It's up to you."

She nodded but didn't look at him. Then Angel saw a car coming up behind them and turned to his friends: "That's Dan I believe." He took a deep breath and again looked at Buffy: "It's time." She nodded again and they climbed out of the car.

Dan and his partner, a guy Spike introduced as Sam Lowell, came towards them and everybody shook hands. Dan gazed at the blonde girl: "Okay Buffy, I think Angel and Spike have explained everything to you. We just make a test with your microphone, okay. You go a little bit over there and say something."

Buffy did so and when the equipment worked she came back. "Alright," Sam pointed towards the club. "Dan and I will be inside. There is a backside door. Angel, Dru and Spike will go with you and be right around the corner. Buffy, you have to go on your own." He smiled: "You can do that. You're tough girl, Spike says."

She gave a half-smile: "Tough girl, uh? Sounds good, I hope I can live up to your expectations."

The two police officers looked at the group, nodded and then disappeared in the club, while the others made their way to the backside of the building. Angel glanced at his watch: "He'll be there any minute. Buffy," he turned to the girl: "I believe in you, you can do this." He paused for a moment and then leaned towards her: "I love you, never forget that," he whispered near her ear.

She smiled and mouthed: 'I love you too.' Then she squeezed his hand again and stepped into the dimly lightened back-yard. Many thoughts were racing through her head, would Lex believe her, would she make him talk, would she be able to end the nightmare today, leave Dermot and all her past behind her. And then, what would happen to Angel and her? She loved him, but they'd never talked about the future. Deep inside she knew they had avoided the subject, both of them, because of the danger that was still hanging over them. She was still in her thoughts when suddenly a tall scar-faced man stepped into the light. Lex.

Angel drew a sharp breath when he saw the figure coming towards Buffy. His mind was running wild too, but the dominant feeling was fear. He'd never been so afraid in his whole life. He knew it was maybe her best shot to prove her innocence, but suddenly it didn't look as intriguing as it had. All he wanted now was to keep her safe. He felt Spike's hand on his shoulder and turned. His friend smiled and nodded to show him he understood.

"Hi Buffy," Lex began, while he was stepping closer. "I'd say it's nice to see you, but we both know that'd be a lie."

"Lex," Buffy nodded.

"I didn't think you'd remember me," he tilted his head a little bit. "I never thought you'd be so clever to take the stuff yourself. I thought you were a little scared lamb."

"Looks can be disguising," the blonde said and was surprised how cool her voice sounded.

*

Dru turned to Spike and grinned: "She's doing it like a pro."

"Sounds good," her blond boyfriend replied. Angel couldn't say anything, his mouth was dry and his heartbeat fast.

*

"Obviously," Lex grinned. "Frankly I never understood why Dermot was so obsessed with you, but now I think there might be more in you than we all have guessed. You seemed like pure innocence, little girl. Anna," he smiled, but his eyes were cold," yeah, Anna, that was another thing. She was really hot. And she would do it with everyone. Little, cheap whore. It was a pleasure to erase her unworthy life from this planet."

He killed Anna, Buffy thought. Oh god, he really did it. She took a deep breath: "So you killed her," she tried to sound casual. "Well, after killing Dermot this wasn't really something new, was it?" How can I be so cool, she thought. Must be the shock.

He raised his eyebrows: "You think so?" He leaned his right side at the wall of the building. "But we didn't come to talk about Dermot, did we? Where is my stuff, little girl?"

"I want to talk about Dermot though," she replied. "I would like to know who killed him. To say thank you, you know. I hated him."

"Did you?," Lex let out a short laugh. "Well, I think most of us did. He was a greedy bastard. You really don't remember, do you. Yes, many people hated him, but only one hated him enough." He laughed again seeing her questioning gaze: "You're really a little innocent girl. Anna killed him, sweet Buffy. She killed him and took the stuff. I didn't plan to kill her that night in her apartment. But she attacked me," he shrugged. "Nevermind. It doesn't matter. And now my drugs please."

The same moment Sam and Dan crashed through the back-door of the club while Angel, Dru and Spike came around the corner. Lex looked around, wildly: "Mike, Phil," he shouted to call his partners for help. When they didn't show he cried: "Damn cowards." Then his eyes fell on Buffy: "You little betraying whore," his voice was dangerous and before anyone could react he produced a knife and stabbed the girl right in her stomach.

Angel's eyes widened in shock when he realised he was too late: "Buffy," he cried and catched her in his arms before she hit the ground.

She looked at him with wide, almost surprised eyes: "Angel," she breathed. Then she was unconscious.

*******

He had been in waiting rooms of hospitals before but he couldn't remember that he'd ever felt like this. Angel sat in the corner on the ground, his knees pulled to his chest, his forehead resting on them. He had failed her. He should have never allowed her to do this, to try to prove her innocence this way. Oh god, what had he done. This was all his fault. If she would die it would be his fault.

He had been with her in the ambulance and now she was in surgery for almost an hour. Doyle had called her parents, Angel wasn't sure if his voice would work properly. All he felt was fear and guilt. He would never forgive himself for endangering her life.

Spike and Dru were gone with the police and Lex to complete the paperwork there, while Doyle had picked up Cordelia and they were now sitting next to Angel in the waiting - room.

"Angel," a voice sounded from the doorway.

He looked up and saw Joyce Giles standing there, her face wet with tears.

"Mrs. Giles," he gazed at her. "She's still in surgery," he answered her unspoken question.

She stepped closer and sat herself on the chair beside him: "What happened?"

"She was stabbed in the stomach. It was my fault," he said without looking at her. "I should have never allowed her to do this. I should've known how dangerous it was."

She laid a hand on his shoulder: "Buffy can be very stubborn."

"Angel, man, it was the only way, and you know it. Don't blame yourself," Doyle said. "Mrs. Giles it's nobody's fault. It just happened, we weren't fast enough. The swine stabbed her with his knife before anyone could react."

Joyce nodded and squeezed Angel's shoulder: "Don't blame yourself. I know you love my daughter, you would never endanger her intentionally."

For the first time he looked up: "But it was my fault. I was responsible for her. I should've never gotten emotionally involved. That's the first thing you learn. Never attach yourself to your clients, it clouds your judgement."

"Oh Angel, we cannot always control our feelings and emotions, sometimes they are stronger than we are," Joyce smiled at him. "And it is wonderful."

He shook his head stubbornly and put his forehead back on his knees, when Giles stepped into the room and looked at his wife: "I talked to a nurse. They're through with the surgery and they'll bring her to the IU now. The doctor will talk to us soon." He shot the man on the floor a deadly glare. For him, Angel was the one responsible for this. He hadn't trusted the guy with his daughter and this was the proof he'd been right.

Only five minutes later the doctor came: "Mr. and Mrs. Giles?"

Joyce and Giles stood up and the doctor smiled: "I think she'll make it. The stab wound was pretty deep and it went right into the liver, but we could sew the damage and with a little luck, she'll be okay."

"Thank you so much," Joyce was relieved. "Can we see her?"

"But only for a minute or two. She'll sleep until tomorrow morning. You should all go and have some sleep too."

"Alright," Giles smiled at him. "Thank you."

"You're welcome," the doctor said and left.

Giles looked at his wife: "You go first." Joyce nodded and left the room.

"Angel," Cordelia looked at her friend who hadn't lifted his head during the whole conversation. "Doyle and I go now. I hope that's alright."

He nodded and she asked: "Will you be alright?"

He raised his head, tears were running down his face: "I'm okay. Thanks for being here."

She went over to him and took his hand: "She'll be okay. That's all that matters, Angel. Don't blame yourself."

He nodded again and the couple left.

Giles took a seat and looked at the man on the other side of the room: "That's the way you're protecting my daughter," his voice sounded angry. "You should've stayed away from her."

"I'm sorry," Angel replied in a whisper. "I'm so sorry."

"It's a little late for this," the older man went on. "I think it would be the best you stay away from her now. She has to recover from this and all she needs is rest and peace."

Angel rose to his feet, but his body still leaned against the wall. He didn't say anything, he only stared at Giles. Buffy had trusted him and now she was laying in a hospital bed with a stab wound. He had failed her like he had failed Sarah. He pushed himself from the wall and without a word he left the room.

In the corridor he almost bumped into Joyce who was coming back from Buffy's room. When she saw him she smiled: "I have a good feeling, Angel. She'll make it."

He nodded and wanted to turn towards the exit when she held him back: "Don't you want to see her?," she asked.

"I don't know." He took a deep breath: "Yes, I'll go and see her," a sad smile played on his lips. "One last time," he whispered, so that Joyce wouldn't hear it. He smiled at her and she smiled back. Then she turned to join her husband in the waiting-room.

*

Angel entered Buffy's room and walked over to her bed. She looked pale and was hooked to several tubes, but the constant beeping of the monitor told him that she was alright. As alright as she could be with a stab wound.

He moved closer, sat on the chair and took her hand: "I'm so sorry, Buffy," he said and a tear run over his cheek. "You trusted me and I failed you. You'll never know how sorry I am. Your father is right. I'll stay away from you, you're not safe with me." He pressed a kiss on the back of her hand: "I love you. I'll always love you, but I'm not good for you. Be safe, my love." He stood up and kissed gently her forehead: "Good-bye, my love."

Then he turned and left the room.

Part 17

Buffy lay on her bed in her old room and was staring at the ceiling. Three weeks since Lex had stabbed her with his knife, ten days since she had been allowed to go home. And still no sign of him. He hadn't shown up in the hospital, he hadn't phoned - nothing. All Cordelia had found on his desk had been a note that he would be out of town for a while and contact her and Doyle in a few weeks.

Why had he left her? How could he just walk out of her life like this - without a single word. Had their love meant so little to him? Or had all been just a way for him to make her feel safe during the time he was responsible for her? No, that couldn't be true she tried to assure herself. It wasn't like that. He had been so loving and it had been in his eyes. People couldn't lie with their eyes, not people like Angel. But what had happened? What could have caused him to leave her - alone and empty?

She felt lonely and numb during the days, but she was crying through the nights, when the darkness took everything away that was connected to light and life. Did her parents hear her, she wondered.

An knock on her door interrupted her thoughts and Joyce entered her room: "Hi honey, how do you feel?"

"Alright," Buffy replied, but her voice sounded lifeless.

"Does it still hurt?," her mother wanted to know.

"No," her daughter answered, touching her wound. It had healed nicely. But it hurts, oh god it hurts so much more somewhere else, she thought. "Mom," she began. "Is it possible to stop loving someone?"

"Would that someone be a handsome, dark-haired guy named Angel?"

Buffy nodded and she could feel tears welling up in her eyes. "I miss him so, mom. Why did he leave me? How could he just walk out of my life like this?"

Joyce took her daughter's hand and looked into her hazel eyes: "I don't know honey. I had such a good feeling, I told him it wasn't his fault and he seemed to believe me. I don't know what happened." She shook her head to show how helpless she felt.

"Giles says I shouldn't dwell on it, but I can't. I love him, oh god, I love him so much." She threw her arms around her mother's neck and cried on her shoulder. Joyce hugged her tightly. Her heart went out for Buffy, there had been so much pain in her life and all that she wished was for her to be happy.

After a while the crying stopped and the blonde girl pulled back: "I'm sorry, but it seems I feel like crying all the time these days."

"I understand," her mother replied softly. "It hurts. Oh, I want to kill him for hurting you like this!"

Buffy couldn't help but smile: "You're a great mom, do you know that?"

"It was time you would realise that," Joyce joked. "Now, my darling. You should take a nap and later I'll bring you some soup. How does this sound?"

"Great," her daughter said. "And thanks."

Joyce stood up and smiled at her. And she made a vow that she would find out what had happened.

******

It appeared that she didn't have to, because only half an hour later while she was standing in the kitchen making some soup for Buffy the door bell rang.

Joyce was surprised to see Cordelia standing there and more so when she saw the angry face of the young woman.

"Mrs Summers. Can I talk to you? It is quite important, I think," she said with an urgent voice.

"Of course." The older woman stepped back to let her in and pointed towards her living-room. "Please take a seat. Do you want coffee?"

Cordelia raised her hand: "No thanks. I just have to talk to you. It won't take long." She sat down and when Joyce did the same she began: "This morning I had a call from Georgie, she's Angel's sister. She's living in New York and it appears that Angel is with her." She looked at her lap for a moment and then back into Joyce's eyes: "It seems he's miserable and refused to talk about it. But yesterday night he and Gavin, that's Georgie's husband, had a long night and drank a little bit too much. It loosened Angel's tongue." She paused again and Joyce looked at her expectantly.

"Go on. What did he say? Buffy's miserable too."

The brunette smiled: "I know. Willow told me. It seems that a certain step-father of a certain client confirmed his feeling of being guilty. And that he even convinced him that staying away from said client would be the best for all parts."

"You mean, that..." No, this can't be, Joyce thought, he wouldn't do this. He would never go so far, would he?

Cordelia nodded: "Yes, when he and Angel were alone in the waiting room he accused him that he wasn't able to look out for Buffy and that he was the last person she would need right now. I don't know if you know that, Mrs. Summers, but some years ago, Angel's girlfriend. Well, it wasn't something serious. Nevermind, Sarah, that was her name, was killed by an assassin. He shot her while they were kissing. Angel had a hard time to get over this and ..."

"... for that he was an easy victim for Rupert," Joyce finished her sentence in a voice that held barely hidden anger. "I cannot believe it," she stood up and paced the room. "How could he do it? I know he didn't approve of their relationship, but his," she waved her hands, "it's unforgivable. She's been so miserable." Suddenly she stopped pacing and faced her visitor again: "Let's forget Rupert for a moment, he's mine to deal with. The more important question is, how can we get Angel back here? I strongly believe they have just to talk with each other and everything will be fine."

Cordelia grinned: "Now, I've already taken care of this. I just wanted to know if you're game."

"I'm in," Joyce confirmed her enthusiastically.

The brunette looked at her watch: "Angel's plane should land in LA right now. Doyle went to the airport to get him there. He confirmed him this morning that we had a complicated case where we need his help. And he'll bring him right here to your house."

Mrs. Summers grinned too: "Sounds great."

"All I have to do is call Doyle to tell him, you're okay with this," she looked at Joyce.

"Sure, take the phone. I'm going to tell Buffy. She has to know this at once, although it'll hurt her that her *step-father* was behind all her misery." She sighed. "I'll be back in five minutes."

Cordelia had already dialed: "Doyle," she said into the phone. "Get him here. Now."

*********

Angel watched the LA traffic passing by when he drove with Doyle towards the agency or that was what his partner had told him. New York had been hell or close to it. He'd never thought he'd miss her so much. He missed her every second of every day. If he hadn't been so sure before he would be now, he loved her. Truly, madly, deeply. He laughed inwardly, his sister had played that song all the time and it had cut right into his heart.

And now he was back. In LA, where she was only minutes away from him, but it could've been the moon as well. He wasn't sure anymore if he'd been right leaving her, but he couldn't go back now. She'd hate him and she had every right to do so. He'd left her, wounded, in the hospital. He'd listened to the words of her father, step-father, he corrected himself quickly. All of a sudden it seemed terribly important, that they weren't natural relatives. But he had felt so guilty that night and Giles's words hat hit home. He just couldn't deal with it.

Angel suddenly realised that they weren't going anywhere near the agency: "Doyle, where are we going?"

"Not to the office," his friend replied dryly.

He sighed: "I've already noticed. But I wanted to know *where* we're going and not where not."

"There is this urgent case. A girl, blonde, nice, but terribly miserable, because her boyfriend just left her in the hospital without a word." Doyle didn't look at his friend, but grinned.

"No," Angel sat straight up in his seat. "Doyle," he said warningly. "Don't do that."

"You've no choice. We're going there and you talk to her. I promised. And you know Delia, you wouldn't want me to sleep on the sofa for a week, would you?"

"Alright. I'm coming with you. But just for the record. I think this isn't your best idea ever. She'll hate me. And as a result it'll only hurt her more."

But Doyle didn't seem to listen, so Angel just leaned back in his seat. He should've known it. They tricked him. Christ, I only hope she can forgive me that.

********

Half an hour later Joyce came back into the living-room, followed by a pale Buffy, whoes face showed that she'd been crying, but whose eyes showed new found hope. "Hi Cordy," she greeted the brunette.

"Hi Buffy," she greeted back.

"I'm going to get us some coffee," Joyce announced and disppeared in the kitchen.

"Mom told me," the blonde began. "I cannot believe Giles did this."

"Where is he?," Cordelia wanted to know.

"Gone to the zoo, with Steven," Buffy replied and sat down. "He's seen every day how much I missed him and he didn't say a word. God I'm so angry with him, but also sad. How could he do that to me ... us? I can only imagine how much Angel's hurting. I know how much he still suffered because of Sarah."

"Yeah," the brunette said. "Angel's a good friend. And he had a hart time when the thing with Sarah happened. They weren't really close you know," she explained. "Well, they were sleeping with each other, but it wasn't," she paused for a moment, "it wasn't the same. When he looked at you, you could see he loved you. He never looked at her like that. They liked each other, they had fun together, but it wasn't the same."

Buffy smiled: "You don't have to assure me, Cordy. I'm not jealous and I already knew that. He told me. God, I thought he wouldn't love me and now I hear that my own father did this."

"Now here you go," Joyce smiled when came back with a tray loaded with coffee-mugs and some crackers. "Take yourself a mug. Buffy just one thing. When your father comes back, let me deal with him. I don't want to have any quarrels in front of Steven, okay?"

"Alright mom, I'll try, but I can't promise anything. Right now I'm so angry."

Mrs. Summers planted a hand on her daughter's arm: "I understand honey, but please try."

Buffy nodded and the same moment the door-bell rang.

Part 18

"No, mom, let me go," Buffy touched the arm of her mother and held her back.

Joyce looked at her daughter for a moment, then she smiled, nodded and settled down beside Cordelia.

Buffy took a deep breath and opened the door. Doyle stood there and smiled sheepishly while Angel only stared at her, not knowing what to say.

"Hi Doyle," the blonde said and smiled. "Why don't you just go in. Your wife is already there." Then she looked at Angel: "It's like a big family reunion."

He still couldn't say a word. She was pale and fragile and you could see she still suffered from the stab wound but she was taking his breath away. He tore his gaze away from her face and wanted to enter the house when he felt her hand on his chest: "No, mister. You're not coming in."

"Sorry," he whispered. "I told Doyle it wasn't a good idea." He tried desperately not to show how much he was hurt by her behaviour although he felt she'd every right to treat him this way. "I ... I'll better go." He turned and wanted to go to the car, when he felt her hand on his arm.

"You're not going anywhere. I just don't want to talk to you in front of a bunch of spectators," she smiled, stepped out of the house and closed the door behind her. She nodded over to the bench: "Why don't we sit down for a moment?"

He studied her face and then said: "Alright."

After both sat down Buffy took his hand: "I missed you. No, don't say anything. I know why you left and you're wrong."

"Buffy, I..."

She raised her free hand: "Let me talk. Cordelia told me what Giles said to you. I'm so sorry. I wish I could take that away, he must have hurt you terribly."

Angel only stared at her. She wasn't angry with him: "I'm sorry too," he said. "For leaving like this. It's just ... I couldn't deal with it. I felt responsible for what happened. I know it's stupid, but that night everything came rushing back and... I was a fool and all I can offer you is to say I'm sorry for hurting you." Suddenly it wasn't important anymore if he was the right man for her, the only thing that counted was that he loved her more than anything. The three weeks without her had been hell and all he wanted was to be with her for the rest of his life. So he took a deep breath and looked into her eye: "Would you," he swallowed, "would you take me back?"

"Oh Angel," she breathed and threw her arms around his neck. "I'll take you any way I can get you. I love you. But you have to promise never to leave me like this again. And for the record, you're not responsible for this." She looked at her stomach and touched the spot where she'd been wounded. Caressing his cheek she smiled: "You're responsible for helping me, for finding the real killer, for giving me my life back, for believing in me. You're the best thing that ever happened to me."

He rolled his eyes and smiled too: "Don't flatter me. I only did my job."

"No," she said firmly. "It was much more and you know it. You believed in me when nobody else did and you did it although you barely knew me."

He laughed: "I'm usually not that gullible. Actually Doyle always says I'm too critical with our clients. But with you. I just knew it. Maybe because I loved you. I certainly never planned to fall in love with you, it just happened and it happened so fast and was so deep there was not way I could fight it."

She smiled: "I'm glad. That you didn't fight it, I mean. Because I've never felt that way before and I doubt I'm going to feel like this for any other man." She grinned: "So you see, you're stuck with me. I'm your private responsibility now."

He grinned back: "Are you? Hmm. Sounds good." He leaned forward an began to nuzzle at her earlobe.

Buffy felt showers running all over her body and moaned: "God, Angel. We're sitting on a bench for everyone to see us. I think we'd better stop."

He pulled back from her: "Maybe we should go in, don't you think?"

She nodded, stood up and pulled him with her into the house where the others were sitting and grinning broadly when the couple entered the living room.

"Why are you grinning like idiots," Buffy asked playfully.

"Oh nothing," Cordelia tried to make a straight face. "So everything's alright with you two, I guess."

"Yes," Angel answered, putting an arm around Buffy's waist and pulling her to him. He looked at Doyle and Cordelia: "Thank you. For being not as stupid as I was."

Joyce smiled and stood up: "I'm glad," she said. She gazed at Angel: "She was miserable you know. But now her eyes are shining." She laid a hand on his arm: "Angel, none of us blames you for what happened. And I'm sure you know that."

"What about your husband?," he asked.

"Leave Rupert to me. Now, why don't you just take Buffy and you spend the day together or as much time as you want."

"Mom," Buffy exclaimed in mocked indignity. "Are you pushing me in the arms of a man? Ts.ts.ts. Shame on you!"

Joyce laughed: "Hush. Just go and have a nice day. Angel I know you'll take care of her. She's still not back to her full health, so make it easy."

He kissed Buffy on the top of her head: "I'll treat her like gold," he promised and smiled at her.

"I'm not an invalid," she protested. "But I'm not saying anything against the rest. So we go?"

"Fine." Cordelia got up and looked at Angel: "You have to drop us off at the agency so we can get our car."

He nodded: "Then let's go. Thank you Mrs. Summers."

"Why don't you call me Joyce?"

"Thanks then, Joyce," he smiled at her and she surprised him by leaning forward and kissing him on the cheek. Then she hugged her daughter and whispered:

"Have a great time."

Buffy smiled: "I'm sure we will. See you later."

Laughing they got into the car and drove away.

*******

When Rupert Giles entered the house with his son about an hour later he was surprised to find his wife sitting in the living-room, drinking coffee and reading a book.

"Mommy," Steven cried and jumped onto his mother's lap. "We were at the zoo," he exclaimed.

Joyce laughed: "I know, my darling."

"It was sooo cool!"

His mother rolled her eyes. Steven was definitely spending too much time with Willow's boyfriend. "What did you see?"

"Oh," his eyes were wide and excited: "Lions and tigers and rhibos."

"Rhibos?," she asked.

"Yeah," he answered quickly. "They have a horn on their nose. And sometimes two."

"You mean rhinos, darling."

"Whatever," he said with a motion of his hand. "And then we saw penguins. Daddy said they live where it's always cold, but I don't believe him." He looked at his father who smiled.

Joyce didn't look at her husband: "And why won't you believe this, Steven?"

"Because they don't even have clothes. They would be freezing," his face was very serious and it was obvious he'd thought about that very thoroughly. "You need a coat to live where it's cold and they hadn't anything."

"I see," Joyce smiled at him when he yawned. "You are tired my love," she said and touched his cheek. "Why don't you take a little nap and afterwards you can have a piece of cake."

"Yeah," he grinned.

"Then let's go upstairs." For the first time she looked at her husband: "Could you please wait for me, Rupert. I want to talk to you."

Her voice was harsh and he looked at her quizzically. When she wouldn't elaborate anything he only shrugged and nodded.

******

After dropping Doyle and Cordelia at the agency Angel looked at Buffy: "How do you feel?"

She rolled her eyes: "I'm fine. My mother always exaggerates. I'm just not up for a long distance run, but I'm fine. Really," she assured him.

"Alright," he smiled. "What do you think about going to the beach. Just for a walk. I know a nice spot where almost nobody goes to."

"I'd like that." She leaned over and kissed him on his cheek. "I would like to talk to you some more."

"Yeah," he took her hand. "We never talked about us, right? To much ... action?"

She grinned: "Yeah. Now, let's go. I've been too much inside the last weeks. I'm *so* looking forward to the beach."

********

Giles looked up when his wife returned to the living-room and smiled: "I bet he fell asleep at once. He must have been exhausted." He stretched his hands over his head: "And I'm too."

She didn't smile at him, only sat down and studied his face. After a while she said: "You're still looking like the man I've married, you know, but I'm not sure if you're he anymore."

He stared at her: "What do you mean? By the way how's Buffy? Is she asleep?"

"She's fine," she said without taking her eyes from his face. Then she shook his head: "How can you even dare to ask how she feels after what you've done? How could you do this and then look into the mirror each morning?"

"What are you talking about?," he asked confused. He tried to think about what he'd done but couldn't find anything.

"God, this is the worst. You don't even know it! I don't believe it." She closed her eyes for a moment and then looked at him again: "You told him to stay away from our daughter, do you remember that?"

His eyes lit up with understanding: "Yes, I do. I strongly believe it's the best for her. Joyce, he's an unsteady job. A private investigator, his life is dangerous and he couldn't even keep her safe."

"But she loves him," his wife stood up and paced. "Love, Rupert. Do you remember that feeling?"

"That's low," he replied with a hurt look.

"Is it? I'm not so sure. They love each other so much. How could you do this? But to inform you, they're back together. Fortunately women are smarter than men and so we rightened the wrong. And Buffy is with him now and by god I hope they'll making it work. And don't you dare to interfere again."

He stared at his wife. He couldn't believe this: "So you went behind my back although you knew I didn't approve of this," his voice was filled with anger now. "How could you do this?"

"I think you should really shut up now, Rupert, before you say things you can't take back again. Better you go and think about everything. You're already familiar with our guest-room, as I recall. I think you'll better get used to it because you won't sleep in our room until you've come to your senses. What is the matter with you. Are you afraid she's going to leave us? Newsflash, honey, she's grown up. She'll leave us sooner or later, that's only natural. Get used to it, get your senses straight or," she paused and glared at him. "Get lost." With this she stormed out of the room.

Giles jumped on his feet and ran after her: "Joyce, you can't mean that," he pleaded.

She was half-way up the stairs. Her eyes were like ice: "Watch me, Rupert." Then she turned back and disappeared in Steven's room.

Part 19

It was very peaceful at the beach although it was weekend and one should've expected more people around, but obviously Angel knew this special place. So the only people they saw was another couple walking somewhere in the distance.

Angel and Buffy walked in silence for a while just holding hands and enjoyed being together after these lonely weeks. After a while he leaned over and pressed a kiss on the top of her head. She looked up and smiled at him, then they continued their silent march. There was light breeze, they could hear some seagulls and noises of the water.

Buffy stopped and took a deep breath: "It's wonderful out here. How do you know this special spot."

He looked to the ground for a moment as if to struggle with the answer, then he raised his head again: "Sarah and I used to come here." He watched her waiting for her reaction.

She smiled: "So you're ready to finally let go?"

He smiled back happy she understood him so well: "Yeah. I thought it was appropriate coming here. You know to start fresh with you. Leaving the guilt behind me, so it won't haunt us anymore - well somehow at least." He stroked her cheek: "I know it'll ever be with me, but I am not allowing it to run my life anymore."

They began to walk again.

"I thought you'd realised it was a fault. Us, I mean. When you didn't come to the hospital and nobody knew where you were. Then Doyle came with your note." Her voice was even and quiet but he could hear the sadness in it.

He kissed the back of her hand: "You'll never know how sorry I am. But it just came rushing back and then your ..." he took a deep breath. "However. I know it was wrong, but I couldn't deal. I'm usually not the run-away type."

"I don't know if I can forgive him," she said. "How could he do this to me? I always thought he loved me." Tears were threatening in her eyes.

Angel stopped her and put a finger under her chin to make her look at him: "He loves you."

She let out a short unhappy laugh, but he insisted:

"He does. Buffy, he loves you very much. Everyone can see that. But he's afraid to loose you. Again. He thinks if you're falling in love with a man and then you'll disappear like you did some years ago. It's a very irrational fear and maybe he isn't even aware of it. He thinks he's angry with me, but actually he's only scared." He leaned down and kissed her forehead.

"You think?," there was hope in her voice. And she truly hoped, hoped nothing more this might be true. Because she could, would, forgive him for this - eventually.

"I'm sure. You have to talk. Assure him, that you still love him and that nothing will change that feeling."

"I love you," she whispered. "I cannot believe I could ever live without you. It's as if I only started living when you came into my life."

"The feeling's mutual," he replied, closing his arms around her and pulling her to him. "I want this to work," he said suddenly. "I love you so much. I never thought something like this was possible. It's almost unreal."

"It's very real," she protested with a smile. "I'm very real."

"Yeah," he whispered and caught her lips in a kiss that told her about his deep love and devotion.

Buffy felt like flying, nobody had ever kissed her like this. It wasn't a very passionate kiss, but it held so much love it literally took her breath away and she tried everything to show him her feelings as well. When they came up for air again she smiled: "Wow."

"One kiss," he agreed.

They laughed, their foreheads still touching.

"I want this to work too," she said. "I cannot think ever living without you again. It's so strong it scares me."

"Scares you?" he asked worried.

"Not scares me *scares me* you know. But it's so strong. It fills me completely, without you I feel empty and lost. How am I ever going to be without you again?"

"There's no need to be scared. I'll always be with you, as long as you want me to, that is, and if it helps I feel the same. That was the reason I was so scared at the beginning. Scared, that my feelings would interfere with my job. I thought when they already clouded my judgment with Sarah then what would happen with you. But obviously it was stronger than me. I couldn't fight it."

"So we stay together?" she asked with a shaky voice. The answer would decide her whole life.

"That's all I want", he replied honestly. *She* was all he wanted. "Maybe we could have a real date, have dinner, drink coffee or what normal couples do." He smiled.

"Coffee, huh?," she grinned. "I think normal couples don't meet each other in a case of murder."

He tilted his head: "What are you trying to say?"

"That we're over the stage of coffee. But I'd like to have a dinner with you. What about tonight?"

"Are you sure?" his voice sounded concerned. "You're out of hospital for only ten days."

"And?"

"I don't want you to over-exert yourself, that's all." But he didn't want anything more than spend time together with her and he already knew the perfect place.

"I won't," she assured him. "I feel fine. Actually," she grinned, "I feel great, better than I have for a very, very long time."

"Alright," he kissed her again. "Then you're invited for dinner at Angel's place. I'm quite a good cook, if I may say so and you can lay down whenever you feel it's too much for you."

She beamed: "I'd like that very much, but I want to go home first. Dress up, you know," she grinned.

He raised an eyebrow: "Does that mean I have to wear a suit or a tux?"

She laughed: "No, although I'd like to see you in a tux someday, but not tonight. Whatever you choose to wear is perfect. I just think when you cook dinner the least I can do is surprise you with a nice outfit. And I'll ask Xander to drive me, so I can meet you at your doorstep.""Alright," he kissed her again and looked at his watch: "It's almost five now. I'll bring you back home and then we meet at eight. Is that okay with you?"

"Perfect," she beamed. "I love you."

"Love you too," he replied and they sunk into another kiss.

********

"Honey you look perfect," Joyce told her daughter two hours later. "Angel's going to lose it."

"Mom, what language," Buffy exclaimed but grinned. "I don't hope this is going to happen. Because I want him to be very aware of me tonight."

"Oh he will," her mother assured her. "You're so beautiful, honey."

"And I have to thank you for that. This dress is great." Her daughter turned back and forth in front of the mirror.

"I wanted to give it to you for Christmas but I think now it's just the right time." Joyce stood up from her place on Buffy's bed and walked over to her. She reached in her pocket and held out something for her.

"Oh mom! These are your pearls!" Buffy could hardly believe it.

"Yes. And I think they fit perfectly for tonight." She put them around her daughter's neck. "When do you expect Xander?"

Buffy was about to answer when the door bell rang: "Now," she said laughing.

"I'll go and let him in," Joyce headed down the stairs and towards the door but Giles had already let Xander in. Mrs. Giles stopped on the stairs and listened.

"Xander," her husband said in a friendly voice. "Did you came to see Buffy?"

The young man smiled: "Good evening Mr. Giles, I just came to bring her to her date. She called me some hours ago." His voice was tight and held anger.

"I see," he replied and Joyce choose this moment to join them: "Xander, how good of you to drive Buffy," she extended her hand to greet him.

"Mrs. Giles," he greeted back. "Is she... all mighty goodness," he said suddenly and stared to the stairs. Buffy came down, a smile on her face. She wore a burgundy red dress of knee-length with thin straps that accentuated the important parts. With it she wore high heels of the same colour and the beautiful pearls her mother had given to her. Her hair was curled up on her head and some loose strands fell at the sides of her face over her neck. She looked breathtaking.

Giles saw her as well: "You look wonderful, Buffy," he complimented her.

"Thank you," she said, but the smile on her face disappeared. "I'm going to meet Angel," she informed him. Then she looked at Xander and the smile was back on her face: "Thanks Xand, I owe you one."

He grinned: "Not really. I had to honour to look at you."

She laughed: "You're never going to be a millionaire. You're to easy to please."

Joyce kissed her daughter on the cheek: "Have a wonderful evening," then she leaned to her ear: "And don't feel forced to come back."

"Mom," Buffy blushed a little bit. But Joyce only shrugged and grinned.

With a short glance at Giles she left the house, Xander in tow and Giles could hear him laugh while he was saying: "God, Buff, whoever that guy is he must be pretty special to earn you."

"He is," she said laughing as well. "I assure you, Xand, he is."

Part 20

Angel was nervous and almost burned a part of their dinner and he felt butterflies in his stomach when the doorbell finally rang. Taking a deep breath he headed for the door to open it. What he saw took his breath away. Buffy had never looked so beautiful, in fact he couldn't remember ever having seen something like her tonight.

She smiled at him, he looked gorgeous in his black pants and the dark green shirt. "Hi," she greeted him.

"Hi," he breathed, still not fully master of his voice.

"Hi, I'm Xander," a young man beside Buffy said. Angel hadn't noticed him so far.

"Angel," he introduced himself. When he saw the other man rise an eybrow he held his hand up: "Keep your comment to yourself. There's none I haven't heard already."

Xander grinned: "I just wanted to see that Buffy's safe with you." He leaned over to her: "Have a nice evening. But I really can't see what's so special about him."

"Xand!," she exclaimed. "Thanks for bringing me."

"You're welcome. Have a nice time." With this he turned and disappeared in the elevator.

Angel cleared his throat: "Uh, why don't you just come in?," he invited her.

She smiled and entered his apartment: "It smells wonderful. What are you cooking?"

"It's a surprise," he replied smiling as well. "You're so beautiful," he complimented her.

"Thank you, mom had planned to give me the dress for Christmas, but she thought this evening would be more appropriate."

He stepped closer and encircled her waist with his arms: "Remind me to thank her."

"I will," she rose on her toes and met his lips in a sweet kiss. "I missed you," she whispered in his ear.

He smiled: "It was only three hours."

"Too long." She pulled back a little. "It looks wonderful," she pointed towards the table where Angel had everything ready for them. He'd lit up two candles as well.

"Are you hungry?", he asked.

"Hmmm, very and the more so when this smell is tickling my nose."

"Sit down, Mylady," he bowed like a servant. She nodded as ladylike as possible and he helped her in her chair. "First course is coming soon."

With this he disappeared in the kitchen but was back only a minute later with two plates. They held avocado-salad with crevettes and joghurt-dressing. Her eyes widened: "Where did you learn to cook? The Riz?"

He laughed and took his seat opposite to her: "My mother loved to cook and as she had no hopes I'd ever marry she thought it would be a good thing to teach me how to prepare a proper meal."

"Why?," she asked while she tasted the salad: "Oh my god, that tastes delicious."

He beamed: "Thanks. Why what?"

"Why didn't she think you'd ever marry?"

He rolled his eyes: "I was ... well pretty wild. Had a new girlfriend every week. It wasn't anything serious, actually I was very shy and we never did more than kissing, but they all ran after me in highschool."

She grinned: "I cannot imagine why."

"Me neither," he replied honestly. "In highschool I was certainly nothing a girl could find attractive, but I had a brother who was the quarterback of our highschool football-team."

"You have a brother?"

"Yeah. Graham. He's two years older than I. He and his wife live in Sidney. He works for a computer company," he sighed. "They have two children, Sam and Sheila. That's my mother's name."

"Where are your parents?," Buffy wanted to know everything about his family now.

"They live in New York too. That's where I was born. I saw them while I was there," he told her. Then he looked at her empty plate. "Ready for the second course?," he asked. When she nodded he stood up and went into the kitchen again.

So he had two siblings and his parents were still alive, she thought. There was so much she didn't know about him, and yet she felt so comfortable around him as if she'd known him forever. It would be interesting to learn about every detail in his life. When she saw him coming back she smiled.

He smiled back: "Now this is catfish in creme-sauce. I love it and I hope you'll do too." He placed the plate in front of her and waited for her to taste it.

She closed her eyes: "That's wonderful, hmmm. God, you're not a cook, you're a genius."

He laughed: "Thanks. I'm glad you like it."

"Definitely," she nodded. Waving her fork through the air she said: "If I wouldn't be in love with you already I'd fall in love with you instantly."

He laughed even harder. "My mother would be very proud of you. And after all, you cannot cook as you said, so one should be able to prevent us from starving."

It was said in a teasing voice but Buffy felt a little pang of joy in her heart. It definitely sounded as if he was planning for a longer time. A future, she was almost afraid to think about that word. Sure, they had decided to try to make it work, but his words sounded different, as if ... no, not now. Don't think about it, she told herself. Don't jinx it.

"So you have two siblings and your parents," she said instead.

He nodded: "Yeah, and my niece and nephew and hopefully another one very soon."

"Oh yes, the one you'll be godfather of, I remember."

"Yes," he nodded again and took another bite of his food.

"So you'll be in New York in February."

"Hmm, and for Christmas. My parents want us there and my brother and sister-in-law are coming with their children from Australia." He sighed: "It's a great big family reunion."

She felt disappointment in her chest. Their first Christmas and they would be separated. But he obviously loved his family and she didn't want him to feel bad about her, so she tried to sound relaxed when she said: "You're certainly looking forward to spend these days with your family."

"I am," he looked at his plate and didn't dare to raise his head when he said: "but only if you're coming with me."

Her fork fell down with a loud noise and she stared at him: "What?" she whispered.

He looked up: "Would you come with me? It's only one week ahead and ... well, I don't want to spend Christmas without you. It would be only for three days and I promise you'll like my family."

"Yes," she answered without hesitation. Happiness flooded her whole body. "Of course I want to come with you."

"Really," his eyes were full of hope. "What about your family? Won't they be very disappointed?"

She gestured with her hand: "Mom will understand. And at the moment I don't really care about Giles." When she saw his look she sighed: "I will talk to him, I swear, but there's nothing I want more than to spend Christmas with you."

"I'm very happy," he said with a smile. "Very happy," he said again. "Are you finished with your fish?"

She nodded: "Yes, I feel stuffed. And it was delicious."

"I made some mousse, but we can have that later," he told her while he was carrying the plates into the kitchen.

"Yeah," she said and sighed happily. Christmas with Angel in New York. Yes!

**********

Joyce looked over to her husband who was staring at the television. They had spent the whole evening with looking at a stupid film and avoided to talk with each other. She grinned inwardly, she could almost see him fuming. Buffy had treated him cooly and Joyce knew he was angry because Buffy met with Angel without telling him a word in advance. He was behaving ridiculous and deep inside he knew it already, she was sure of it. But true to himself he couldn't admit his fault, he first had to shout and brood.

She yawned: "I'm going to bed now," she announced. "You know the way to the guest-room." He groaned and she almost couldn't hide her smile.

"Don't you wait for Buffy," he asked her trying to hide his annoyance with her behaviour.

"Oh no and I wouldn't wait either if I was you," she said casually and began to walk towards the door.

"Why?," he asked sharply.

"Because," she turned round, "I doubt she'll come home tonight." She yawned again. "I'm really tired. Sleep tight."

"Joyce!"

"Yes, my beloved husband," she replied with amusement in her voice.

"This isn't funny," he said loudly.

"It isn't? Well, alright, then serious. I'm very sure she'll stay with Angel for the night. And please don't shout. Steven is asleep." She leaned at the doorframe and studied his face. God, she loved him, but he could be so stubborn.

"So you're telling me that our daughter is going to have sex with ... him."

"Yes. Rupert, she's 22, don't behave like a moralist. You'd sex when you were 18, you told me yourself and Buffy was born when I was only 21." Not waiting for his reply she disappeared on the stairs.

He only shook his head. This was running out of his hands. Women, he thought, why do they always have to win.

*******

When Angel came back from the kitchen he found Buffy sitting on his sofa and he had to steady himself at her view. He felt himself responding immediately, but he thought about her experiences with men and knew there was no way he could just go and take her right away. He had to be patient, and he wanted to be patient. He loved her so much, he would do nothing to scare her or to make her feel uncomfortable.

"Do you want anything to drink?," he asked glad his voice was working properly.

She shook his head: "No, all I want is for you to come over here," she patted beside her on the sofa.

When he sat beside her she looked deeply in his eyes: "I love you," she whispered and leaned forward to kiss him, soon the kiss spiraled out of control and panting they pulled away from each other. "I," he began, but she laid a finger on his lips and kissed him again.

Soon his hands were roaming all over her body and she pulled him closer with her arms that were lying firmly around his neck. Suddenly she realised what they were doing and pulled back. They were both looking at each other, both breathless.

Angel looked to the ground and then back into her eyes: "I'm sorry," he said, his voice hoarse with desire. "I didn't mean..." His eyes were like deep dark poolsand she'd the feeling to drown in them.

"Shhh," she kissed his cheek. "It's okay. I want it too," she said and smiled when she saw the look in his eyes. "I really do, but I'm scared." She bit her lower lip: "I trust you, but after..."

"I know," he cut her off. "We do not have to, I mean, I understand."

"But I want it. I just want you to be gentle."

He kissed her deeply: "What about that? Whenever you feel uncomfortable you just say it and we'll stop."

"Oh Angel," she breathed and tears welled in her eyes. "I love you, oh god, I love you so much." She threw her arms around his neck again and as if she was only a feather he gathered her in his arms and carried her to his bedroom.

Part 21

Buffy woke up in the morning by a loud noise coming from the kitchen and she heard Angel swearing something. She laughed softly, while she stretched her legs and arms. This was heaven she decided although the deprivation of her lover was a serious disturbance.

"Angel?," she called him.

"Coming," he replied and soon she heard him approaching the bed-room. He smiled when he came through the door, dressed in sweat-pants and a T-shirt, carrying a tray that held coffee and breakfast. Settling himself with the tray beside her on the bed he leaned over and kissed her gently. "Good Morning," he smiled.

"Morning," she said nodding towards the food. "What's that?"

"Breakfast in bed," he grinned. "I thought that'd be appropriate."

Clutching the sheet over her breast she bit her lower lip: "Uhm, Angel, I'm a bit under-dressed."

A wicked grin spread over his face: "I don't know. I like you that way." When he saw her rolling her eyes he quickly kissed her cheek and then walked over to his dresser. He pulled out one of his own shirts and tossed it to her. Grinning she pulled it over her head: "That's better," she sighed and took one of the coffee mugs. "I need caffeine in the morning."

"Hmm," he replied, reclaiming his place beside her. Taking a mug himself he looked at her: "How do you feel?"

"Great," she said with a dreamy look on her face. "You're definitely a keeper."

"You too," he replied quickly. He bowed his head and blew a kiss on her right shoulder where his shirt had slipped down.

She giggled: "I could get used to it. You know, having dinner with you, some night-time activities and then breakfast in bed." She sighed again and took a buttered toast.

"You should," he said, but then quickly changed the subject. "So no regrets," he asked, anxiously waiting for her reply. This was his greatest fear, that she wouldn't have enjoyed it the way he had.

"None," she looked at him. "On the contrary. I never felt this way, Angel. So ... loved." Both forgot their coffee for a moment and their lips met in a loving kiss.

"I'm glad and I'm very happy," he smiled. "You make me happy."

She felt tears welling in her eyes. He was so sweet: "Stop that," she said, wiping one away that was rolling town her cheek: "Or this will become a crying-feast."

He laughed: "Alright. But I feel like flying," he admitted. "I didn't know that someone could feel that way. So perfect."

"Yeah, perfect," she confirmed.

*******

After food in bed and an overly long shower Angel drove Buffy back home. They were both sitting in his car in front of the Giles' house. "I don't want to part from you," she said, stroking his cheek.

"Me neither," he replied. "But I fear Cordy and Doyle will unemploy me if I don't show up. I've been gone for over three weeks."

She grinned: "They can't dismiss you, it's your agency."

He grinned back: "Very funny. No, but I cannot abandon them again. And we'll see each other tonight, right?"

"Yes," she whispered, her eyes clouding with passion and desire.

"No, don't do that," he scolded gently. "Or I'll never get something done today."

She giggled: "I wouldn't mind."

"I bet," he laughed. "And then we'll go to New York."

"Yeah," she confirmed. "I can't wait to spend Christmas there. Do you think they'll have snow? I always wanted to spend Christmas in snow."

"Hopefully," he said and then leaned over to kiss her again. He took a deep breath: "See you tonight."

She opened the door: "Love you," she said blowing him another kiss.

Angel sat in his car and watched her disappear in the house. Sighing loudly he started the ignition wondering if that goofy grin would ever vanish from his face.

********

Shutting the door behind her Buffy removed her shoes and started a little when she saw Giles standing in the doorway of the living-room.

"Morning," she greeted him.

"Where have you been?" he asked his voice holding barely hidden anger.

She sighed. This day had been so wonderful so far: "With Angel, not that it's any of your business."

"And you didn't think you should inform us? I was worried."

"Mom knew it, actually she encouraged me to stay," she grinned thinking about her mother. "And besides I'm 22, I do not need to inform you about every step I take."

"Honey," her mother greeted her the same moment, while she was coming down the stairs. "Did you have a nice evening?"

"Hmmm," Buffy sighed. "Great." The dreamy look was back in her eyes and Joyce smiled.

"I'm very happy for you. You love him very much," she asked with a short side-glance at her husband, who listened attentively.

"Oh yes," her daughter replied with a huge grin on her face. "He's so caring and loving. Is it possible to be too happy, mom?"

Joyce laughed: "No, certainly not. Are you hungry?"

Buffy shook her head: "No, we had breakfast," glancing at her step-father she added: "In bed. Oh god, mom, he's a great cook too. Dinner was fantastic. If he's ever bored with sniffling after people he can open a restaurant."

Her mother laughed again, ignoring Giles completely: "So I daresay he's a keeper?"

"Definitely," her daughter said with a nod. Then she looked over to her step-father: "I love him, Giles and I want you to be okay with this. But please don't make me choose, because I couldn't live without him anymore."

He took a deep breath: "You look radiant, Buffy," he began. "Even I can see that."

"So?," she asked, desperately trying not to set her hopes too high.

"Your mother said, I was afraid to loose you and after thinking about it I have to admit she's right."

"Oh Giles," Buffy said. "You're never going to loose me. I love you, all of you. It's different from what I feel for Angel, but then it's something so different from all I've felt before."

"What about your feelings for Dermot?," he asked.

"Dermot," she let out a short laugh. "God, that was ... I can't even really remember what it was. I was young, stupid and blinded by his attentions. Every girl in school wanted him and he wanted me ... I was flattered. And then you both were so much against him, it made him only more attractive. But I never loved him, certainly not. If I was ever sure of something, then this. After I fell in love with Angel I know what love is. It's something that makes you whole and complete and you can never get enough of it. Look at me, I've parted from him ten minutes ago and miss him already."

"Maybe I should try to know him better," Giles said hesitantly.

"You should," Buffy nodded. "He's such a wonderful man. Actually I think you both have a lot in common." She grinned and then became serious again: "Dermot left my soul damaged and hurt and Angel healed it. Last night was incredible, he's incredible," she sighed again. Then she bit her lower lip and looked at her parents: "There's just," she took a deep breath, "he's invited me to go with him to New York over Christmas." When she saw the look on her step-father's face she quickly added: "His family lives there. He wants me to meet his parents and siblings."

"Oh honey, that's a wonderful idea. I bet it'll snow there, that's so romantic," Joyce clasped her hands together. "Finnegan? I bet he's Irish, that'll be a traditional catholic Christmas."

"I think so," her daughter replied with a shrug. "But I don't care. All I want is to be with him."

"But then I insist you spend the New Year with us," Giles gazed at his daughter and knew there was nothing he could do against this man. He suddenly realised that he would probably lose her if he'd keep up his hostility. This thought scared him to the bones. "You and Angel, I mean."

Buffy had tears in her eyes: "Thank you," she whispered and hugged him tightly. "I love you Giles."

Locking eyes with his wife over her head he could see her smile while she mouthed 'I love you too'.

******

Cordelia's head snapped up from the computer-screen when she saw Angel entering the office whistling cheerfully.

"Oh look, who's back from the dead," she grinned. "Doyle, come join us for a moment," she called for her husband who appeared in the doorway of his office only a second later. She looked at him and then at Angel who was still wearing said goofy-grin: "Can you tell me who this is? I mean, I knew I had a boss, always looking seriously, brooding a lot, but who is this grinning guy?"

"Morning to you too, Cordelia," Angel said and quickly glanced at Doyle who was grinning knowingly.

"I'd say a certain blonde girl gave him a happy," he said looking at his wife.

She rolled her eyes: "I should get a raise."

"Why?," both men asked unison.

"Well, it's a real challenge. On one hand I have my husband who tries to silence each of my complaints by distracting me sexually and now I also have a boss who can't stop grinning. That should be forbidden."

Angel laughed while Doyle gave his wife a look: "I'll keep my hands off you," he said with a serious voice.

"No," she replied quickly and then blushed furiously. "I mean ... well ... I...", she rolled her eyes and waved her hands through the air: "God you two are impossible. Men! I need some coffee, anyone else." When they nodded she took her purse and went for the coffee shop.

When she had closed the door behind her Angel looked at his friend: "She's definitely special," he grinned.

"You can say that," Doyle replied with a certain grin on his face.

"And you love her."

"You bet."

Angel nodded and walked over to his office, opening the door he turned to his friend again and smiled: "I know what you mean, my friend." Then he closed the door behind him.

Doyle grinned and began to whistle.

Part 22

"Do you have the tickets?," Buffy asked for third time while they were waiting in the line at the check-in desk at the airport.

Angel smiled at her: "Sure, calm down."

"I'm just so excited."

"Who would've guessed," he grinned.

"Oh you," she punched his arm playfully. "I've never been to New York before and I want to see the snow. Your mother said there was snow?"

"Yes," he chuckled and looked at Joyce who was standing behind them to wish them a good journey. She'd driven them to the airport and Steven had come with them. He held his mother's hand tightly and watched everything with huge eyes. The airport was crowded with all the people who wanted to spend their holidays away from home.

The young woman at the check-in desk smiled at the young couple before her: "Can I have your tickets please," she asked and gestured Angel to put the suitcases on the band beside her. "Two parts?," she asked again and he nodded. "Mr. Angel Finnegan and Miss Buffy Summers, right?" He nodded again. Buffy smiled at him nervously playing with a button on her coat. "Alright Mr. Finnegan, you have 5A and B, here are your boarding-cards," she handed them to him together with the tickets. "Please go to exit C 30. The plane will board in 15 minutes."

"Thank you," Angel said and took Buffy's hand to pull her away so the next people could be served.

"Mom, do you want to come with us or should we say good-bye now," Buffy asked and looked at her mother.

"I think we'll say good-bye now." She reached out with her free hand and pulled her daughter close: "Have a wonderful time. And call."

"I will," her daughter assured her. Then she pulled back and bowed down to look at her brother: "See you soon Stevie."

"I'll miss you," he said with watery eyes. "You promise to come back soon."

"Of course," she smiled at him. "Come on, don't cry, you're a big boy."

"I don't cry," he replied quickly while he was angrily wiping his eyes.

Buffy looked at her mother again: "See you in a few days."

She nodded: "Angel, have a happy Christmas and take good care of her."

He smiled: "Of course," and then grinned when he saw Buffy roll her eyes. With a last wave both turned and walked towards the boarding-gate.

*******

"I wonder what she'll look like," Sheila Finnegan said while looking at the knitting in her lap. She wanted to get it ready for Christmas. It was a little pullover for her soon-to-be expected grand-child.

"Who?," her husband looked up from his newspaper he'd been reading.

She sighed: "Daniel, you're not listening. I'm talking about the girl Angel's bringing with him for Christmas."

He removed his reading-glasses from his nose and studied her face for a moment, then he put them on again and looked back at his reading: "We'll see soon enough."

"Oh god," she threw her hands in the air and the knitting fell to the floor. "You're such a man."

"Thank you, darling," he teased her.

"That wasn't a compliment," she grumbled. "Daniel, he's bringing a girl home. He's never done that before. She comes all the way from Los Angeles with him, that means it's serious."

The word 'serious' caught his attention and he looked up again: "You think he's thinking about marrying her?"

"I don't know, but it's possible. And we don't know anything about her. He only said, 'by the way mom, we're coming together. I'm bringing my girlfriend, her name is Buffy.' And Georgie isn't very communicative either. I mean he spent almost three weeks with her recently and I bet it had to do with the girl, remember when he came to see us. He was so depressed."

"Maybe you should just wait until they're here." He looked at his watch: "They should land any minute and Gorgie will bring them directly."

"I only want to make sure she's good enough for him," Sheila Finnegan raised her chin. A typical attitude Daniel knew only too well.

"Oh god, woman. Angel's a grown up man. He's 28 years old, has his own agency and lives far away from us. I think he's able to find a girl on his own." Women, he thought, but wouldn't dare to say it aloud.

She gave him a deadly glare and began to knit again. He sighed inwardly and shaking his head he continued his reading.

*******

With Angel pushing the trolley that held their bags they walked towards the exit. The flight had been quiet and they'd landed in time. Through the glass doors Buffy could see a dark haired girl who was waving enthusiastically, her belly clearly showing that she would have a baby soon. She looked at Angel who was smiling at her. This had to be his sister. Buffy took a deep breath. She would meet his family, she hadn't been nervous about this before but now she felt butterflies in her stomach. As soon as they emerged from the doors she heard:

"Angel!"

They walked over to where his sister was standing and they both hugged. He smiled down at her: "You've grown again," he joked.

She rolled her eyes: "Don't say that. I'm feeling like a stuffed cow. And Gavin has the guts to tell me I'm beautiful." Then she turned her attention towards the blonde. Extending her hand she smiled: "Hi, I'm Georgie, Angel's sister."

Buffy took the offered hand and shook it: "And I'm Buffy."

"I know," the dark haired girl replied. "He's told me about you. And only the best." She grinned. "It's so good to finally meet you." She looked at her brother and seeing the way he was watching his girlfriend she smiled broadly. He was definitely very much in love and from the look in Buffy's eyes the feeling was mutual. "Come on, you two. My car's outside."

*

"Mom's very excited to meet your girlfriend," Georgie said, while she was driving towards her parents' house.

"I bet," he grinned and looked at Buffy who was biting her lower lip nervously. He took her hand and planted a kiss on it's back. "Don't worry. She'll like you."

"Yes, definitely," his sister confirmed him. The blonde gave her a grateful glance.

"Are Graham and Loretta already there?"

"No," Gorgie replied. "Gavin's getting them tonight after work. Their plane is due sometime around eight. These are my brother and his wife, they bring their two little kids." She explained while looking at Buffy through the rear-mirror. "They are little demons and I'm sure after spending Christmas with them I'm going to hate Gavin for doing this to me," she pointed at her protruding belly in mocked annyoance, but her eyes sparkled with laughter.

Buffy laughed: "I'm sure they aren't that bad. I have a little brother. He's five and I love him dearly."

"Maybe he's an angel, but Sam and Sheila are not. Sam is four and Sheila two. Nothing is safe from them, they would take everything out of drawers or bookshelves and threw it around. When Gavin and I visited my brother last year in Australia, Sam took all my lipsticks and coloured, as he called it, two of my favourite T-shirts with it." She groaned and looked to the traffic-lights: "Another red," she said. "Traffic in New York is something I really don't need."

"LA is pretty bad too," Angel said with a grin.

"I know," she replied. "I've been there, remember."

He rolled his eyes: "How could I ever forget that." He looked at Buffy: "She was a very annoying little sister, always wanted to stay with me."

"Hey", she protested grinning. "It was a good way to escape my overprotecting father."

Buffy rolled her eyes now: "Oh, I feel with you. I have one of them too. He almost freaked out when he heard about Angel and I."

Georgie laughed: "Nobody is good enough for their little girls. You should've heard the third degree mine gave Gavin when he asked for my hand. He's the old fashioned kind who does that. And my dad, although born and raised in New York, is very, very Irish catholic. He even had the guts to ask Gavin if he'd dishonoured me," she shook her head. "It was so awful, I wanted to disappear into a hole."

The blonde laughed again: "That could be right from Giles mouth," she said, looking at Angel. "Giles is my step-father," she told Georgie. "My mother and he married two years after my dad died. We love each other very much, but he can be annoying too."

Georgie nodded: "But we wouldn't trade them for the world, would we," she said with a sigh.

*

Angel's sister pulled the car into the driveway of a huge white house. It had big windows and a white door that was decorated with Christmas-ornaments. There were lights in every window and with the snow lying on the ground it was for Buffy as if she was looking at a winter-wonderland.

Georgie got out of the car and held the door open for her brother's girlfriend while Angel took care of the suitcases. Putting them down in front of the door he rang the bell. They heard footsteps and then an elderly woman opened the door. Mrs. Finnegan was a middle sized woman with grey hair and a warm smile. The most attracting part were her deep blue eyes, the same eyes Buffy had seen in Georgie's face.

"Angel," Sheila Finnegan exclaimed. She stepped forward and hugged him tightly. She was almost fragile compared to the tall, broad figure of her son. Angel was the first to pull back: "Mom, so good to see you. May I introduce, this is Buffy Summers, my girlfriend."

Buffy smiled nervously, she could see Angel's mother studying her closely. Then her lips turned up in the same warm smile she'd given her son and Buffy found herself surprisingly in a hug. "Welcome, Buffy. We're very happy to finally meet you."

Pulling back the blonde smiled at her: "Thank you for having me, Mrs. Finnegan."

The elder woman made a gesture with her hand: "Please call me Sheila." Then she turned a little bit: "And this is Daniel, my husband," she said towards the elder man who had appeared in the hall behind her. Buffy's eyes widened for a moment. Mr. Finnegan was the older edition of his son. They had the same statue, the same eyes, only his hair was gray now. And his lips twitched in the same half-smile she loved so much. "Welcome my son," he greeted Angel and then looked at Buffy: "Why didn't you tell us she was a beauty?" he joked. He patted his son on the shoulder and then extended a hand for the blonde.

"Mr. Finnegan," Buffy greeted him, shaking his hand.

"I thought, my wife already told you to call me Daniel. I may be old and have grown up children, but every time someone calls me Mr. Finnegan I think my father's standing behind me."

Everyone laughed and Sheila gestured them in. Kissing her daughter on the cheek she asked: "How do you feel, my love? Any more problems?"

"Problems?," Angel looked at his sister in alarm.

She made a gesture with her hand: "Nothing. Mom's exaggerating. I had some early waves of labour, but the doctor affirmed us it was nothing serious. Quite common actually in my state of pregnancy. I'm completely healthy and nothing will ruin our family Christmas."

"Now," Sheila looked at Buffy and her son. "Why don't I show you your room so you can unpack your things and fresh you up?" She gazed at Angel: "I've given you the large guest-room, with the king-size bed," she twinkled and he rolled his eyes.

Buffy blushed slightly and looked at Georgie who only grinned. "That's mom, you'll get used to it," she whispered in her ear."

Angel and his girlfriend followed Mrs. Finnegan up the stairs and she opened the door to a large room with a huge bed. "This is your room, Buffy. I hope you'll feel at home here too. Make yourself comfortable. I'm going to prepare some coffee and a snack. We'll have dinner a little bit later tonight as we're expecting our other son and his family from Australia."

Buffy nodded: "Yes, Georgie told us already."

"Fine," Sheila smiled. "I'll leave you to your own now. Come down whenever you're ready. We're very happy to have you here, both of you." Then she closed the door behind her.

Angel sighed and fell back on the bed. Buffy sat down beside him: "Tired?," she asked.

He shook his head and sat up again: "No, not really. Only a bit stiff. All this sitting."

"Yeah. Maybe we can go out later, for a while. You know walking through the snow."

He tipped her nose with his index-finger: "I get the feeling you're obsessed with snow," he grinned.

"It's not something I ever experienced. Well I did once," she admitted. "But I was only four and can barely remember. My father took me and my mom to Colorado that winter."

"I see. And I'd like to get out later." He studied her face for a while: "How are you feeling? Are you okay?"

"Of course," she replied without hesitation. "Why?"

He smiled: "My mother can be very, well, let's say overwhelming."

"No, I like her. And your father is very charming," she grinned mischieveously. "I certainly know now where you got your way with women."

"I beg your pardon," he reached out and pulled her to him. Laying back himself she came to lay on his chest, lips only inches apart. "What way with women?, he asked with a sparkle in his eyes.

"You know what I mean," she said and caught his lips in a kiss. "Is he a good kisser too?" she asked, grinning broadly.

"How would I know?" he replied. "And dare you try to find that out," he warned her with a smile on his face.

"Afraid of the competition?"

"You," he threatened playfully. "You've earned some punishment," he said.

"Punishment?" she asked innocently, "Oh, Angel ... no ... stop," she laughed when he began to tickle her. Both were laughing loudly.

Their laughter sounding downstairs and in the living-room father and daughter exchanged a knowing glance while Sheila began to hum over the boiling water in the kitchen.

Part 23

When Angel and Buffy came down again they found Georgie and her parents in the living-room. Mr. Finnegan rose from his chair when he saw the couple entering: "Ah, Buffy," he smiled. "The whole room lights up when you bless us with your appearance."

Buffy giggled, while Angel rolled his eyes and exchanged a glance with his sister. "Thank you," the blonde smiled back. Angel took her arm and led her to a sofa held in English Victorian style as was the whole room.

As soon as everyone had tea and a plate Sheila looked at Buffy: "Have you ever been in New York before?," she wanted to know.

The blonde shook her head: "No, never. And as I told Angel I've only seen snow once before."

"Oh, my dear," Sheila clasped her hands. "Then we should have a stroll in the park the next days. It's so wonderful. All the children and the ice-skaters. I'm sure Sam and Sheila, these are my grand-children, would love it too."

"I love ice-skating," Buffy exclaimed. "I used to do it when I was little. We were living near by a rink in LA. That was when my real father was still alive."

"I see," Daniel took another sandwich. "When did he die?"

"When I was ten," the blonde replied. "My mother married again two years after that and I love my step-father very much."

"So the little boy you talked about before is you half-brother?," Gorgie asked sipping at her tea.

"Yes. I didn't know about him until some weeks ago." She said but wanted to bite her tongue afterwards. Glancing nervously at Angel she found him smiling and relaxed instantly. There was nothing she had to hide after all.

"Really?," Sheila raised an eyebrow. "Why?"

"I ... I run away from home when I was sixteen," Buffy began looking at Angel again. When he took her hand tightly in his she continued: "It was a pretty bad time. I had a boyfriend then. When I was eighteen I ran away from him, he'd become rather ... brutal." She took a deep breath and entwined her fingers with his. "Anyway. He found me some weeks ago, kidnapped me and then I was found next to his dead body. I was accused for murder and that was how Angel and I have met."

Georgie nodded only and smiled understandingly and Buffy realised that Angel had probably told her about their relationship, while Mr. and Mrs. Finnegan were listening attentively.

"Her step-father came to me," Angel continued smiling at his girlfriend. "He hired me to investigate in her case and then things happened. Fortunately we could find the real killer and clear her from any accusations." He led her hand to his lips and kissed it gently.

His parents exchanged a quick glance. "That must have been dreadful," Sheila's voice showed honest concern. "How do you feel now?"

"Better," Buffy replied.

"She was stabbed by the killer with a knife," Angel told his parents. "In her stomach. It was pretty bad. And I freaked. After the things that happened with Sarah I felt guilty for this. That's why I came to New York. But fortunately we found a way to deal with it." He again smiled at Buffy.

"He was pathetic," Georgie informed her brother's girlfriend.

"Thanks so much," Angel gave her a certain look. "We all really needed to hear this."

"You're very welcome," she shot back grinning, then she gazed back at Buffy: "But he really was. Only sitting around and looking all depressed. The last night before he went back to LA Gavin and I had a misunderstanding and so my husband and my brother got drunk." She laughed: "You should've seen them. Pathetic doesn't even begin to describe it."

"Don't listen to her. She enjoys making fun of me," her brother said, smiling at Buffy.

She shrugged: "Oh, I don't know, I have a feeling it sounds pretty authentic." She grinned at Georgie who patted her brother's knee.

"I like her Angel. She's got the right sort of humor for this family."

Sheila and Daniel exchanged another glance. "She's right," Mr. Finnegan said. "We're a special kind of family. You will see the whole amount when my other son and his family will be there and Gavin of course. You certainly won't forget these family days."

His wife hit him playfully on the arm: "Daniel. Stop that. You frighten her. Buffy, don't listen to him. We're not that bad. Only chaotic sometimes."

"Don't worry, Sheila," Buffy smiled. "I'm not so easily frightened. Actually I think your husband is very charming."

"You see," Daniel gave his wife a look.

"Never tell him that again," Mrs. Finnegan gazed at Buffy. "He already thinks he's irresistible. Fortunately I've managed to hold my sons with their feet on the ground."

Her husband grinned and looked at his son: "You better treat her good or I'll try to charm her away from you."

Angel grinned too: "Dad, you're devoted to mom. I know there could never be anyone else."

His father sighed: "You know me too well." He shrugged, looking at Buffy: "What can I say, Sheila is my life. She's always been." He took his wife's hand and kissed it.

*

"I like your family," Buffy said an hour later to Angel. After tea they had excused themselves for a while and went out for a walk. Their gloved hands entwined they walked through the snow-covered streets, their breath visible in the air while the day was slowly fading. With the growing darkness the lights that were at each house were more visible and the mood was definitely christmassy.

Angel wrapped an arm around her shoulders and pulled her to him: "It's like a dream coming true. You're here with me and we spend Christmas together."

"I know how you feel," she replied, leaning her head against his shoulder. "I'm afraid I'm going to wake up and nothing of this has happened."

He leaned down and kissed her on the top of her head. "It feels very real to me. You smell real too. God, I love you," he said suddenly. "I'm so happy I want everyone to hear it." He let go of her and threw his hands in the air: "I LOVE BUFFY," he shouted and then laughed out loud. Buffy joined him in his laughter. Some other people who were near by turned and looked at them, but Buffy didn't care. Her heart almost burst with joy, seeing him like that. He was so relaxed and happy and she was too.

Wrapping her arms around his waist, she pressed herself tightly to him: "I love you too. So very much. I want to repeat it again and again, but I know even if I'd say it a thousand times it can never describe what I feel here," she pulled slightly back and laid one hand over her heart. When she looked up at Angel she could see he had tears in his eyes. She reached out to touch his cheek and he caught it to kiss it's palm.

"This will be the best Christmas ever," he whispered. "Because we're together."

"Yes," she breathed and then their lips met in a deep kiss. Afterwards they still held each other for a while, savouring the feeling of their warm bodies against each other surrounded by the cold of the winter night.

*****

"She's lovely," Sheila sighed, looking at her husband and daughter. "And they're so in love. I've never seen Angel like that. He looks as if he's going to burst from happiness."

"I like her too," Georgie smiled. "They're so cute together. And she loves him very much. She's exactly what he needs. I really hope it'll work between the two." She looked at her father who had been quiet for a while and was staring into space. "Dad?," she slightly touched his arm.

He snapped back into reality: "Oh sorry, my love. But I think you're right. They share something very special. Besides she is very beautiful."

"Men," Sheila snorted. "She's a very nice girl, that's the most important thing. And she's devoted to him, she'll do all to make him happy."

"Uhh," Georgie suddenly made and put a hand on her belly.

Her parents gave her concerned glances but she shook her head: "No, everything alright. Williams-junior only kicked quite hard," she laughed. "I bet he's going to be a soccer-player."

Dan grinned: "I remember you've given your mother a hard time."

"Did I?," his daughter looked at her mother.

"You were a kicker too," Sheila confirmed. "But we were so glad to get you after two boys." She sighed.

"I wonder when they'll come back." her husband gazing towards the door.

*******

"Maybe we should go back," Buffy looked at her boyfriend. "What time is it?"

"A little bit after six. I think Graham and company will be there around nine, so you can take a bath." Kissing her cheek he added: "Personally I'd prefer a shower with you, but as we are in my parents home.." he trailed off sighing dramatically.

She laughed: "No, we can't do that. We're not exactly quiet and it'd be too embarrassing, but I'd love to take a bath."

"Okay, then let's go back." He gave her another kiss and then entwined his hand with hers. In silence they made their way back to his parents' home.

Part 24

After a long bath Buffy joined Angel and his family in the living room. Sheila was moving back and forth between there and the kitchen, preparing dinner for all, when the door bell rang. Before anyone could get up Mrs. Finnegan ran for the door and her happy voice sounded into the living-room

"Graham, Loretta," she exclaimed.

"Mom," Buffy heard a deep male voice. And then after a while they all appeared in the doorway of the living-room. Graham was completely different from his brother and father, he was not as tall, he was blonde and had his mother's blue eyes. On his arm he held a little boy who seemed sound asleep. His wife was a tall red-head, whose curls fell almost to her waist and she was holding a little girl.

Graham greeted everyone with a wave: "Hi everyone. We'll see you soon, just tucking the little ones into the bed." With this he and his wife accompanied by Sheila disappeared again, while another head came through the door.

"Gavin," Angel greeted his brother-in-law with a smile.

"Hi," the other man greeted back. He walked over to Georgie and gave her a sweet kiss on the lips. She smiled at him: "Tired, love?"

He shook his head and gently touched her swollen stomach: "You're alright?." The concern was apparent in his voice.

She rolled her eyes: "Of course. I had only some spasms recently. Stop hovering over me."

Gavin sat himself beside his wife and then looked at Buffy: "Hi, I'm Gavin," he greeted her, reaching out his hand. "I've already heard a lot about you."

"I see," she smiled with a short glance at Angel. "I'm usually not that bad," she joked.

He laughed, a free, careless sort of laughter, Buffy liked immediately: "He never said something like that," he replied, looking at his brother-in-law as well. "I'm glad everything worked out okay. We had a really bad night, before he left. I had a headache for two days," he winced thinking about it. Gavin was about the same age as Angel, Buffy guessed, he was very tall, but not as athletic and had black hair. In contrast he had pale green eyes, a very interesting combination.

Georgie looked at her husband: "Did you bring the bags," she asked.

He nodded: "I did."

His wife glanced at Buffy: "We're all staying here for two nights," she explained. "Mom likes to get the whole family together over Christmas." Then she grinned at her father, who was reading in his newspaper: "And Dad too although he'd never admit it."

He looked up: "Sorry, what did you say?" he asked innocently.

Georgie made a face at him, then gazed back to her brother and his girlfriend: "See what I mean." She patted her father's knee: "We love you nevertheless Dad."

He cleared his throat: "Hope they get the little ones soon into their beds. I'm starving and this smell coming from the kitchen gets my stomach into overdrive."

Everyone laughed when the others appeared again. Daniel stood up to hug his son and daughter-in-law. Georgie and Gavin did the same. Then Graham and Loretta embraced Angel and looked at Buffy.

Angel wrapped an arm around her shoulder: "Graham, Loretta, that's Buffy, my girlfriend."

His brother extended an arm and shook the blonde's hand while the women only nodded at each other. Buffy liked Loretta, who seemed a little bit shy. "The children were completely exhausted," Graham told the others. They were so excited on the plane and little-Sheila was admired by everyone. All the people around us saved their chocolates for her and Sam." He rolled his eyes: "We had to put it away after a while and then we had to get them changed. They looked as if they'd fallen right into it."

"Come on children," Sheila appeared in the door. "Dinner is ready and I know my husband is starving."

Everyone laughed and followed her to the table.

*

The dinner was a new experience for Buffy. It was new to see such a big family assembled together, everyone was joking and laughing and it was interesting to see Angel between them all. He was completely relaxed and his eyes were shining.

After dinner they stayed in the living-room for a while and Buffy felt very comfortable. Everyone treated her as if she'd been a part of the family forever. But they didn't last long as they were all tired and so they went to bed long before midnight.

*******

Buffy woke up the next morning and when she opened her eyes she blinked. She looked at Angel who was still sound asleep beside her and turned her head back.

Then she blinked again.

She was looking into two pairs of children's eyes.

"Hi," she smiled at them.

"Hi," Sam greeted her and bit his lower lip. His eyes were huge, while his sister was a little bit behind him and smiled. He turned to her: "That's Sheila. She's only two. I'm Sam." He raised his chin: "I'm four," his voice was full of pride.

Buffy bit his cheek not to laugh out loud. They were adorable. Sam would look exactly like his father someday, he had these wonderful blue eyes and blonde hair, while his sister had short red curls. She looked like a real angel, no wonder that everyone on the plane had instantly fallen in love with her.

"I see," Buffy replied, trying desperately to keep a straight face. "What are you doing here," she asked, her voice low not to wake Angel, but he already stirred beside her.

Sam tilted his head: "I checked the other rooms too, but I already knew the people there," he answered grinning. "You're new though."

"Am I?," the blonde grinned too. "And do you approve?"

While the little boy still seemed to think about it his sister jumped onto the bed and right into Buffy's arms. "Hi," she said, leaning her head against the blonde's chest.

"Hi," Buffy smiled at her and run an hand over the little girl's head. Inwardly she was glad that she and Angel had been too tired to make love the previous night and that, as a result, she was wearing her pyjamas. She wouldn't have liked to meet those two naked. She looked to her side and saw that Angel was awake by now and grinning. He reached out and touched Sheila's cheek: "Hi, little one. Last time I saw you, you were a baby." The girl grinned in response.

"Today is Christmas," Sam said from his spot. He hadn't moved so far and he certainly wouldn't crawl into the adult's arms. He was a big boy after all.

"That's right," Angel confirmed while he was sitting up.

The same moment there was a soft knock at the door and a red head was peeping in: "Sorry," Loretta appologized. When she saw everything was fine, she stepped in and put her hands at her hips. Sam had turned as soon as he had heard his mother's voice and grinned triumphantly at her, while Sheila didn't move from Buffy's lap. On the contrary, she snuggled even deeper into the blonde's arms.

"Sam," Loretta sighed. "What did I tell you about sneaking into other people's bedrooms?"

"Sorry," her son said, but looked anything but. "She's new," he said pointing at Buffy.

His mother glanced at the blonde and gave her an appologetic smile. "It's just this age," she said. "Sam, you cannot just go into other's bedrooms."

"It's okay," Buffy smiled at her. "I think I've made a new friend," she told the red-head and looked at Sheila, who had fallen asleep.

Loretta grinned: "Yeah. She seems to like you. Is it okay if I leave her with you for another while?"

When Buffy and Angel both nodded she turned to her son: "Alright, young man. Then let's go to the bathroom. Brush your teeth."

"Oh, mom," he rolled his eyes. "I'm not a baby. I can brush my teeth myself."

"Of course," she grinned and held out her hand for him. "But I have to go there anyhow."

He took the offered hand, but turned for a moment, looked again at Buffy and then at his uncle: "Maybe you could keep her for a while," he said with a nod at Sheila. "She's driving me crazy all the time."

The adults burst out laughing and Loretta pulled her son out of the room, closing the door behind her.

"What a morning," Angel smiled at his love. "I didn't even get a chance to kiss you." He leaned forward and their lips met. Sheila didn't move at all. He nodded towards the little girl: "It is a lovely picture. You with a child."

Buffy blushed slightly: "You think? I could never picture myself with a baby. I think my life was just too chaotic to even consider children." She kissed Angel again. "And I didn't have the right partner either."

He grinned and she blushed again: "Not that I'm trying to imply anything," she added quickly.

"I know," he gazed at her with a very strange look in his eyes. He thought about a certain something he'd brought with him to New York. Now he was sure it had been the right decision.

"Are you okay?," she asked concerned. She'd never seen him like that before.

He slightly shook his head to come out of his daze: "Sorry. Yes, I'm fine."

"You seemed far away," she told him.

"I was thinking about something," he replied mysteriously

"Do you want to tell me?" she asked.

He shook his head: "No, it's a surprise." He kissed her on the tip of her nose. "You have to wait until tonight. Now," he swung his legs of the edge of the bed. "I'm going to take a shower while you can baby-sit Sheila for another while. I'm sure Loretta will soon come and get her or my mother," he grinned. "She's crazy for the kids. She misses them all the time and always tries to persuade Graham to get a job in the states, preferably in New York."

"She's the perfect mother," Buffy sighed, leaning back and shifting Sheila in her arms. She murmured something but didn't wake up.

Angel smiled: "Yeah, I think she really is. I love her dearly."

"I know," she smiled back.

"I'll be back in some minutes," he said reaching for the door-knob. Then he suddenly sighed: "I love being with my family."

She tilted her head: "I'm sensing a but there."

He sighed again: "The shower will be so lonely," he grinned.

She grinned back: "You're impossible."

"Love you too," he said and closed the door behind him, while Buffy planted a kiss on the head of the little girl who was sleeping in her arms and for the first time, she thought about holding her own child like this.

Part 25

After breakfast the children were almost bouncing up the walls and so Sheila Finnegan proposed that the rest of the family should go for a stroll in the park that would be undoubtedly full of children now that the sun was shining brightly. She wanted to stay inside to prepare a family dinner. She was very secretive about it and Buffy wondered what was about to happen, but then Daniel pulled her aside and assured her with a wink it was only his wife's normal Christmas-behaviour.

So the young couples and the two children left the house to leave the parents. Mr. Finnegan said he was too old for this kind of fun and hadn't given in to any protests. All he wanted was to sit down quietly for a while with a good book. Gavin had tried to persuade his pregnant wife to stay as well, but she'd insisted to go out. So he finally had to give in, he couldn't deny anything to Georgie.

The park was - as Sheila Finnegan had foretold - crowded with children. The couples were walking hand in hand while little Sheila and Sam ran back and forth between them.

Graham turned around to look at his brother-in-law: "And you're sure you're really up to this," he asked nodding at his two kids and then at his sister's rounded belly.

"Actually I can hardly wait," he admitted gazing lovingly at his wife.

"Don't listen to him," Loretta elbowed her husband playfully in his ribs. "He adores them. And he spoils them all the time. If I wouldn't be there they would be allowed to do everything they want."

Everyone laughed at the comment. The same moment a snowball hit Angel square in his face. He spat while he was laughing at the same time and turned his head to identify his 'attacker'. Sam was grinning from ear to ear. Exchanging a grin with Buffy Angel let go of her hand and ran after the little boy who had taken off squealing in delight. Angel caught him after some seconds, lifted him in the air and spun him around: "Gotcha," he laughed, while Sam seemed to enjoy the whole situation tremendously.

The other adults laughed. Buffy's heart flew over with joy to watch her boyfriend with Sam in his arms. Ever since Sheila had fallen asleep in her arms this morning she hadn't been able to ban the idea of a child from her mind. But it had not only been the child, Angel had always been there too. But what would he say, she could clearly remember his words that his job was too dangerous to have a family at the same time. Sure they were still young and there was no reason to hurry but all of a sudden she wanted all, a family and children. Had this come over night? Or had it always been there, buried in the depths of her soul, but too far away for her to dare thinking about it. Or was it the fact that Angel had come into her life? She came to the conclusion it was a bit of all. And another thing was clear in her mind, Angel was the only one she wanted to have a child with.

"Are you okay?" his voice interrupted her thoughts.

"Oh sorry," she smiled at him.

Wrapping his arm around her shoulders they followed the others who had started to walk again, Graham was now carrying his daughter. "You seemed far away," Angel said, kissing the top of her head.

"Just thinking," she replied with a sigh.

He frowned slightly: "So bad?"

She quickly shook her head: "No, not bad. Actually it was a happy thought. Something I could see somewhere in my future."

"Will you tell me?" he asked.

"Maybe. Later," she answered. She didn't want to tell him in the park with people surrounding them, hell she didn't want to tell him at all too afraid he'd run away. They'd never talked about children. "It is wonderful out here," she changed the subject.

He looked at her for a moment. Obviously she didn't want to tell him and he let it go. For now. "It is," he replied. "It's very peaceful. I like the Christmas season here with my family, there are many good memories."

"I bet," she said softly. "Your family is wonderful."

He could hear the sad note in her voice and pulled her closer: "Yours is too. Your mother is a wonderful woman and Stephen is a great little boy. And even Giles seems to come to terms now."

She nodded: "Yes. But I didn't have siblings when I was young and I had a hard time when my dad, my real dad, died. We weren't that close," she crossed her fingers, "but I adored him deeply. And I hated my mother for marrying Giles, for a while I didn't talk to her... or him."

"I think it is only normal, Buffy," he kissed her again on her scalp. "Giles at your mother's side meant that there were no hopes your father would ever return. And although you knew he was dead it is hard to finally accept it."

She sighed: "You should be a psychologist, not a PI."

He laughed: "Sometimes it is very close. You have to be able to judge people very quickly in my job."

"Hmm," she leaned her head at his shoulder. "Like you did it with me."

"Exactly."

*

When they returned to the house it was already early afternoon and Buffy's eyes went wide when she saw the enormous tree that was now standing in the living-room.

"Wow," Sam exclaimed. Then he grinned at his father: "There's a lot of room for presents under it."

Graham stroked his son's head: "We'll see. Maybe you haven't been that nice this year." But Sam didn't care for his fathers playful threat. Instead he went over to his grand-father.

"Grandpa," he pulled at Daniel's arm. "Can I help to decorate it," he asked.

"Sure, my lad," Mr. Finnegan nodded.

"My father always takes care for the tree," Angel whispered in Buffy's ear. "It's tradition. Mom looks after the dinner and Dad after the rest."

Soon the whole family, except Sheila who stayed in her kitchen, was engaged in decorating the tree. Georgie and Graham had an argument about the question if there should be any artificial snow on it or not. In the end Georgie won and so the tree stayed as it was. Graham sighed loudly and Buffy could see that this hadn't been the first argument he'd lost.

Buffy enjoyed every minute of the day. They laughed a lot. Later that afternoon Loretta and Graham retreated to their room with their children. They were tired because of the jet-lag and wanted to rest for a while to be fit for the evening.

Angel and Buffy went to their room as well and did what they'd not done the last night, because they'd been too tired. When they fell exhausted in each other's arms she felt that this was the only place she ever wanted to be.

*

Dinner was peaceful that night. Daniel spoke a prayer this time and then he began to carve the goose, Sheila had made especially. It tasted delicious and everyone complimented her which made her eyes shine with pride, although Buffy had a feeling that she knew very well what a great cook she was.

Afterwards they went to the living-room where Daniel had already lit the tree. little-Sheila and Sam stood there with huge eyes, although the boy mainly stared at the wrapped gifts that were draped under it. As soon as they all were settled down, Daniel looked at his son's girlfriend: "It's tradition in our house," he explained, "to open one present tonight. The others will follow tomorrow."

Buffy wanted to answer, but Sam cut in: "I want to open the first present," he exlaimed excited."

Loretta rolled her eyes: "Who would have guessed." She exchanged a glance with her mother and Sheila nodded.

Looking at her grand-son, she pointed at a large one in the corner: "Why don't you open this," she suggested. "It's from your grand-dad and I."

Sam nodded enthusiatically, stormed over and tore the gift-wrap apart. "Oh wow," he said in awe and looked at his parents. "It's an electric railroad."

"Mom," Loretta shook her head. "That's too much. Dad. Thanks a lot."

"Seeing my son's face," Daniel joked, "I see not only Sam playing with it."

Graham blushed slightly, but laughed as well: "You know me too well, Dad. And thanks. This is great. I only hope we'll get to Australia."

One after one every member of the family got a present. Georgie and Gavin gave little-Sheila a stuffed animal and she clutched it tightly, loving it from the first moment. Loretta and Graham got a wonderful blanket Sheila had made herself, while they gave Georgie and Gavin clothes meant for the baby that would soon be born. The present Angel was to open was an old book his father had found. In the end only Buffy was left without a present and Sheila, who was sitting near to it, was searching under the tree for something with her name. But her son held her back.

"No, mom. I think I'll give her a present tonight," Angel said smiling the mysterious smile, Buffy'd seen that morning.

Georgie, Loretta and Sheila gasped, while Buffy watched with wide eyes when he suddenly slipped from the couch he and Buffy were sitting on and kneeled down in front of her, holding her hand tightly: "Buffy," he began. "This might come as a shock to you and maybe you'll think I'm too forward. I know our relationship is still new and I also know that getting enganged might be old-fashioned. But I'm very sure of this. Actually there aren't many things in my life I'm so sure of." He took a deep breath, while Buffy felt tears welling up in her eyes. From the corner of her eye she could see the other adults looking at them in awe. "Buffy, I love you vey much." He pulled a small velvety box from his pocket and held it in front of her. "Will you marry me?"

She opened her mouth to answer, when suddenly a cry disturbed the romantic moment.

"Ooooooh."

The box almost slipped from Angel's hand while everyone turned towards Georgie, who was holding a hand on her stomach, the other at her back. Grimacing she bit her lower lip: "Sorry," she groaned. "But this baby doesn't seem to be romantic at all." She looked at the concerned gaze of her husband: "It does want to come out. Now."

Gavin paled immediately and stared at his wife: "B-But it's too early," he stammered. "It's only due in February."

Georgie's pretty face contorted again in pain: "Maybe, but this isn't a false alarm, I assure youuuuu, oh," she breathed, grabbing Gavin's hand, while Daniel was already dialing for an ambulance.

Part 26

The waiting-room in the hospital was crowded with members of the Finnegan-family and Buffy. Only Loretta had stayed at the house because someone had to stay with the children.

Daniel and Sheila sat on two chairs holding hands and exchanging glances from time to time, while Graham sat on his own, obviously deep in thoughts. He seemed the one less nervous. Well, it wasn't so surprising, he'd been in the same situation twice. Gavin on the other hand was pacing the room.

Buffy didn't look at him anymore, it made her mind spin. She snuggled deeper into Angel's embrace, who held her in his lap. She could feel the little box inside his pocket pressing against her and smiled inwardly. His proposal had been so sweet and wonderful and she hadn't been given the opportunity to answer it yet. And it didn't seem appropriate at the moment to talk about it.

They all looked up when the doctor entered the room, Gavin rushed over to him, his expression tense: "How is she?," he demanded.

"Under the circumstances she's doing alright," the doctor began, but everyone could feel it wasn't all. Something was wrong. "As you already know she's only due in February, but the baby wants to be born. Obviously the labours of your wife aren't strong enough and the baby's heart is weak, so we're preparing her for a cesarean section at the moment." Seeing the questioning gazes he added: "An operation. We're going to deliver the baby by operation. I'm not sure it would stand a normal birth. You're the father?," he asked Gavin who nodded. "Then come with me. You can see her for a minute before the anesthetics will work." With this the doctor took Gavin's arm and pulled him away.

"What an evening," Graham said, running his hands through his hair.

Daniel nodded: "You can say that son. But she's strong, she's always been. It'll be alright." Nobody could say if he wanted to convince the others or himself.

They were all afraid and Buffy could feel Angel's body trembling slightly. She reached out and gently stroked his cheek. His eyes immediately locked with hers and she could see the fear in them. Fear he saw reflected in her eyes. She knew his sister only for a short time, but loved her already. Georgie with her wonderful blue eyes, her humor, her wit, no, Buffy refused to think that something would happen to her or the baby. But the doctor had said that the baby's heartbeat was weak. So everything was possible. She tightened her embrace around her lover's neck and he buried his head in her hair. And beside all the fear for his sister that feeling of closeness that only two lovers could share gave them strength and hope.

"My baby," Sheila whispered suddenly and tears were running down her cheeks. "Daniel," her desperate gaze was on her husband. "What if something happens to her?"

He was about to answer when Gavin came back, his face pale and still tense. "They started the operation now. Georgie wants me to tell you that you shouldn't worry," he smiled sadly. "She's always trying to be strong for me. But she's scared, I could feel it." Tears were also tickling his cheeks: "God, she's so scared, I've never seen her like that. Oh god." He turned towards the wall and leaned his forehead against it. They could see his body was shaking with silent sobs, but nobody went to touch him, all feeling he wouldn't want it.

Angel pulled Buffy closer. What was going on in Gavin's head? He must be sick with worry. Was that really worth it? Was the wish for a family worth the risk of loosing someone beloved. The mere thought of loosing his beloved was so dreadful, he lost his breath for a moment. Angel almost felt relief that Buffy hadn't been given the oportunity to answer his proposal and at the moment he wasn't even sure which answer he wanted to hear. Could he risk it for her to have his baby and endagering her life. A part of him knew it was an irrational fear. Women were giving birth to babies each day and it was nothing to worry about, but tonight his sister and her baby fought for their life. He loved Georgie but this feeling was nothing compared to the deep love he felt for Buffy. The thought she could be the one in there almost drove him over the edge. He could feel his body begin to tremble again and immediately her embrace tightened. He knew, she wanted to give him strength and that made him love her even more.

"Anyone coffee?," Graham stood up and looked around. When everyone shook their heads in the negative, he sunk down again. "Damn," he hissed. "This is even worse than waiting for my own kids. Loretta's deliveries were so quick, I didn't have time to worry."

"Thanks, I really needed to hear that," Gavin shouted and glared at him with angry eyes. Immediately he seemed to regret his outburst and ran one of his shaking hands through his hair: "I'm sorry."

His brother-in-law gave him a smile: "No problem, my friend. I understand perfectly. She's my sister, remember?"

Gavin nodded and then found a chair for himself. "What am I going to do if anything happens to her or the baby. She wants that child so much, I don't know if she could stand it..." his voice broke.

Sheila reached out and touched his knee: "Confidence, my boy," she said. Forgotten were her own doubts, her strength was needed now and that was more important than nursing her own fear. Buffy's respect for her grew beyond imagination. "She's my daughter after all and that baby is my grand-son. We Burns are strong," she glanced at her husband, "and the Finnegans are as well. We're the best that can come from an Irish-Scottish heritage." She looked him deeply in the eye: "I know, they'll be alright. You have to believe it." She looked at the ceiling for a moment and then back to her son-in-law: "God can hear us and he likes his children to be confident."

Gavin nodded at her words and the hope rose in him again. This was an every day surgery, why should it be a problem with Georgie.

They sat in silence for the rest of the time but Sheila's words had eased their worries. Not that all of them believed in God or if they did believed he would really help. But the power in her words was almost palpable and made everyone feel better.

Hearing footsteps in the hall they all jumped up.

The doctor appeared in the door again. And he was smiling. Looking at Gavin he said: "You have a healthy son, Sir. He's tiny but alright. We'll keep him in an incubator for a while, but I don't expect any problems. He's a bit more than four pounds."

"A-And m-my wife," Gavin dared to ask.

"She's asleep, but fine. There's no need to worry. Do you want to see the baby?"

Daniel and Sheila were hugging each other, while Graham patted his brother-in-law's shoulder. Angel pulled Buffy close to him and kissed her tenderly on her forehead. Both had tears in their eyes.

"Yes," Gavin answered the doctor's question, his voice still a bit shaky.

"Then follow me," he looked at the other people in the room: "You can all come."

They followed the doctor to a big glass window, where he stopped and knocked on it. A curtain was pulled aside and gave view to the nursery for the early-born. About ten babies were lying there in incubators, some of them so tiny you couldn't believe they would survive. A friendly nurse looked at them and the doctor said through a microphone: "Could you show us the little boy that was just delivered."

She nodded with a smile and pushed one of the incubators towards the window. Gavin and Georgie's son was red from the exhaustion and he was tiny, but he looked very healthy, in fact he was crying loudly. "He's hungry again," they could hear the nurse's voice from inside. "He's already eaten, but he seems to be hungry all the time." She grinned: "It's a very good sign."

Buffy looked over to Gavin and saw tears running down his face. One of his hands lay on the glass and his fingers were moving as if he was touching his tiny baby with them. "Daniel," he breathed. He and Georgie had obviously already chosen a name. He turned to gaze at his family: "He'll be Daniel," he said and his father-in-law began to smile. "We decided just before she went in for surgery." He didn't say anything else but they could all hear the unspoken words, that they had chosen a name then in case that Georgie wouldn't survive. He turned to the doctor, who was still standing beside them: "Can I see my wife?"

The doctor nodded and Gavin followed him down the hall, while the others stayed in front of the window. The nurse smiled: "I will shut the curtains now," she said. "The little ones need their rest." And with this the baby was withdrawn from their view.

"I'm going to have some coffee now," Graham said looking at his parents. They nodded in agreement and Sheila turned towards her son and his girlfriend: "What about you two?"

They looked at each other and Angel replied: "We're staying here for a moment."

"Alright," Sheila said and followed her husband and son.

"What a night," Buffy whispered, embracing her lover's waist and leaning her head at his chest.

He laid his head on top of hers: "Yeah," he whispered back.

"I still owe you an answer," she said against his chest, not looking up. He tensed immediately and she pulled back to look at him. "What is the matter?"

He shook his head: "I thought a lot while we were waiting in there," he pointed towards the waiting-room. "I was thinking if it's worth the risk of your life. The dreams of having children and a family, I mean."

She nodded in understanding, she could clearly remember him trembling in her arms: "And? Do you regret your proposal?"

"If that had been you, I would have gone mad," he admitted. "I love you so much, the mere thought of something happening to you is more than I can stand. But then I saw little-Daniel there. And the thought of you and I having a baby of our own, someday. It's overwhelming. So the answer is no, I don't regret it. I want to marry you, I want a family with you. Life is taking risks I think, without it we would stop living." He suddenly smiled: "But you're still haven't given me your answer."

She smiled as well: "The answer," she sighed. "Angel you're the most wonderful man I've ever met and I feel so blessed that you want to have me as your wife. Of course the answer is yes. Yes, I want to marry you. Yes, I want your children. I couldn't see me having anyone elses."

He looked deeply into her eyes for a moment and then lowered his head to kiss her gently, lovingly. Raising his head again he smiled: "I love you, my fiancée." With this he reached in his pocket and pulled out the ring. He slipped it on her finger and then kissed it. "I love you very much."

"I love you too," she replied. "Happy Christmas, Angel."

Part 27

Buffy was the first to spot Cordelia who was the one to get them from the airport. It was two days after Christmas and they had been flying back to LA.

The morning after Christmas they had all visited Georgie in the hospital. She looked exhausted but very happy as did Gavin. The doctor even allowed little-Daniel to be brought to his mother for a short while. He seemed quite healthy although he was of course premature. He was to spend two more weeks in the hospital, but there was no danger for him, it was just to be on the safe side.

The whole family had tried to convince Angel and Buffy to stay longer, but Angel thought it wasn't right for him to leave the agency to Cordy and Doyle once more. There was work waiting for them. Doyle had called already and told him that they had a new case. A teenager boy was missing from his home and the parents had hired the agency to find him.

Buffy and Angel had spent the afternoon of their last day in New York with shopping, well actually Buffy had wanted to do that and her fiancée had of course given in. Who was he to deny her a wish. Especially after he had been given his heart's desire with her accepting his proposal. That this was her heart's wish too wasn't really important. Ever since she'd said yes Angel was on cloud no. nine.

"Hi Cordy," Buffy greeted the brunette who smiled at them. The blonde couldn't put her finger on it but there was something different with her friend. There was a certain gloom in her eyes that hadn't been there when they left.

"Buffy, Angel," she greeted back and hugged the couple. "How was New York? Cold I guess," she laughed.

"It was wonderful," Buffy said dreamily. "Unbelievable actually," she added with a glance at her fiancée.

Cordelia looked back and forth between the two of them and tilted her head: "Did something happen in New York?"

"My sister had her baby," Angel replied. "It was earlier than expected. It's a boy and his name is Daniel"

"Oh god," the brunette's eyes were wide. "I have to call her later."

"She's still at the hospital though," Buffy told her. "They had to do an operation to get the baby. But both are well."

"I see. Anything else?," Cordy asked while she opened the trunk of her car.

"Could it be that you're a little bit nosy?," Angel teased while he was loading the bags into the car.

"Me? No way!"

"Yes way," Buffy grinned. "But I don't mind." She looked at Angel with an unspoken question in her eyes. When she saw him nod with a smile she extended her left hand and held it in front of Cordy's face

"What?," the brunette said confused and then her eyes almost popped out of her head: "Almighty god," she breathed. "Is this what I think it is."

"Yes. Angel asked me to marry him," Buffy beamed. "God it was so romantic, but before I could answer his question his sister went into labour. So my answer came with a bit of delay."

Wrapping an arm around her waist Angel looked at Cordelia: "Now, Mrs. Doyle. Won't you say anything?"

"What?," she snapped out of her daze. "Oh sorry. Congratulations," she smiled at them. "It's just ... well, I guess it wasn't really that unexpected. The way you almost eat her up with your eyes. I've got some news as well."

Bingo, Buffy thought. This was the reason for the change she had noticed.

"I'm pregnant," Cordelia blurted out and blushed a little bit. "I just found out. Doyle is almost out of his mind. The last days he called almost everyone he knows to tell them the news," she smiled.

"God, Cordy, that is great," the blonde hugged her friend tightly. "It seems Christmas was full of surprises for all of us."

"Congratulations," Angel said and hugged her as well. "When will the baby come?"

"Seven months exactly," she replied and got behind the wheel. "I can't believe that I'm going to be a mother. I don't even know how to fix a diaper," she sighed. "But I guess I'm going to learn that soon."

"I guess," Buffy grinned.

"Do your parents know about the engagement?" Cordy changed the subject.

"No," Angel replied. "But we're going to tell them now. Could you drive us to Buffy's house, please. My car is still there. I'll join you later at the agency. And now, tell me about the new case."

*******

When Cordelia pulled her car up in front of the Giles' residence she had filled Angel in all the details about the missing boy. He was 12 and after some shouting with his father he'd run away the day before Christmas. The parents were very concerned about him. Doyle had already checked several possibilities but no luck so far.

Angel got the bags from Cordelia's car and put his part into his car. Saying good bye to Cordelia the couple made their way to the house. Before Buffy could knock, the door was opened and Joyce hugged her daughter: "Buffy, welcome back." Pulling back she looked at Angel: "And you too, of course. Come in you both. You have to tell us everything about New York." She led them to the living-room where Giles was sitting and drinking a cup of tea.

When he saw them coming in he got up to hug his step-daughter and then he extended a hand for Angel. The two men looked at each other for a moment before Giles turned his gaze to Buffy: "How was your Christmas?"

"Great," she replied without hesitation. She looked around: "Where's Steven?"

"With his friend Floyd. They wanted to play with their new Christmas presents," Joyce chuckled. "He was up at five in the morning, because he wanted to get there."

"I see," Buffy grinned. "Yeah, well New York was great. Angel got a new nephew," she looked at her fiancée.

"Really," her mother looked surprised. "But I thought you told me the baby was only due in February."

Angel shrugged: "Yeah, well he decided he wanted to be early. It was pretty serious for a while but now my sister and the baby are fine."

"That's wonderful," Joyce smiled. "So you had an exciting Christmas."

"Yeah, you can say that," Buffy said. Looking at Angel she took his hand and turned back to her parents. "There is something else. Mom, Giles. Angel has asked me to marry him and ... I said yes." Biting her lower lip she waited for her parents reaction while Angel squeezed her hand reassuringly. When they didn't say anything she added: "We really love each other and I'm very, very happy about this."

"Oh honey," her mother said with tears in her eyes. "That's wonderful." She stepped to her daughter and embraced her. "I am very happy for you," she whispered in her ear.

Giles watched the whole scene in front of him. He saw his wife hugging her daughter. He saw Angel, who gazed at Buffy with a look that was a mixture of love and devotion, a look every father would wish to see in his future-son-in law and he saw his daughter. The moment she had entered the house he had realized there was something different in her. She was glowing. And now he knew the reason. How could he not approve then? When he saw his wife pull back he took Buffy's hand: "Congratulation," he said.

"You really mean that?" she asked.

"Yes," he turned to her fiancée. "And congratulations to you. I can see you love her and doubtless she loves you. I have never seen her like this. Never so happy. I just hope you'll be successful in keeping that look on her face."

"I'll try my very best," Angel answered and Giles could see he really meant it. How could he ever have been against that, he wondered now.

"Do you have a date already?," Joyce wanted to know.

"No, mom, we thought we ask you first. And then check it with Angel's family. But we want it soon, because Angel's brother, Graham, who lives in Australia is in the States. And they will stay until the tenth of January. And having seen this family I wouldn't want to marry without all of them present. They are all very close you know."

"Oh god," Joyce's eyes went wide. "So early. Buffy do you know how much preparation a wedding needs." She was already planning in her head.

"Mom, I asked Cordy to help too and I'm sure Willow will assist as well. I think we'll manage it," Buffy grinned and exchanged a glance with her fiancée who was winking at her.

"Come on," Joyce grabbed her daughter's hand. "We'll go upstairs. I have several catalogues there. First of all we have to get you a dress and then you have to decide on your bridesmaids and their dresses...." he voice faded while she and Buffy disappeared upstairs.

"Now Angel," Giles turned to his future son-in-law. "Maybe we should talk about how you plan to live with Buffy after you both are married." He sat down again while Angel groaned inwardly. There were certain parts of this getting-married-thing he wasn't looking forward to.

Part 28

"So we are all invited at Buffy's house for the New Year?," Cordelia asked Angel while she was staring at the computer screen in front of her. "Who will be there?"

"Yes to the first question and I'm not sure to the second. Willow I guess and some more of Buffy's friends, she said something about Xander and his girlfriend." Angel came out of his office and put a file on the brunette's desk.

She rolled her eyes: "Xander. Oh great! So the old gang will be there," she sighed which made her husband join them as well.

"Are you okay," he put a concerned hand on her arm.

"Oh god Doyle," she groaned and swatted his arm away. "Stop that! If you'll be like this for the rest of my pregnancy I run away after some weeks. I'm perfectly well, I'm pregnant. Hundreds of women do have babies every day. Get that in your thick skull or get lost."

He shot her another look, then shook his head and gazed at his friend: "And then you'll have the wedding on the sixth. Man, you're really in a hurry." He elbowed Angel playfully in the ribs: "Afraid that she'll realise who her future husband really is and run away."

"Ha.Ha," Angel made. "Very funny. By the way, talking about the date. Don't forget about your tuxedo."

Doyle rolled his eyes: "That's really a punishment. Wearing a tux. You see how much I care for you!"

"If it was for him, he'd come in his usual ... well, call it outfit if you must. One thing is true, love is really blind," Cordelia gave her husband a look.

"You hurt my feelings, 'Delia darlin'," Doyle said in mocked hurt. "My clothes are perfectly alright for me."

"Yes, of course. Taste certainly wasn't on the agenda when your genes were mixed."

"Ah, darlin', but I found you and that proves my taste, doesn't it?"

She studied him for a while: "You've got a point, but that's the only wise choice you ever made regarding taste."

Angel shook his head and rolled his eyes: "I really thought when you two married this would stop. Wishful thinking I guess. Now back to our case. It drives me crazy that we don't even have a trace of the boy..."

******

"God, this is so exciting," Willow exclaimed for the fifth time. She, Anya and Buffy were sitting in Buffy's room and talking about the wedding.

"It is," Buffy nodded. "His proposal was soooo romantic. I had tears in my eyes when he kneeled down in front of his whole family." A happy smile played around her mouth.

"Xander's never going to ask me," Anya sighed. "In the end I'll have to do it."

"Maybe our wedding will get him into the right mood," the blonde tilted her head. "He's such a boy. While Angel on the other side," she sighed loudly.

"Hey, Xander is fine for me. Well, I didn't see Angel so far, but I'm sure I wouldn't exchange them."

"You'd never get my fiancée," Buffy threatened playfully.

"I cannot believe we all fly to New York for the wedding," Willow grinned. "I've never been there before."

"It was the only solution for the problem. Mom and Giles would have liked us to marry here, but Georgie and Gavin cannot travel with their little son and I wouldn't want Angel to marry without parts of his family. They're so sweet." The blonde stuffed another pillow behind her back. "Sheila, Angel's mom, was so excited. And now my mom will fly to New York the day after New York and they're going to plan the wedding together."

"What about Steven?," Anya wanted to know.

"He'll go with mom. Loretta, Angel's sister-in-law has two little kids too and she'll take care of him. But what really makes me nervous is the wedding ceremony. Because I didn't really say what I wanted, Sheila insisted on a traditional Irish catholic weddin, because it would be so important for her husband." She paused for a moment and then continued. "In a big church. I have no idea how many guests are coming, but Sheila and Daniel, Angel's father, seem to have big families and they'll all come."

"Great," Willow said happily. "A dream wedding."

"Yes and everything done in two weeks. Mom was freaking out, but for Sheila this was no problem at all." It seemed as if nothing could freak Angel's mother.

"And then we meet tomorrow to see for the dresses?" Anya asked.

"Yes. At the dressmaker. Cordy will be there too," Buffy sighed happily. "This is like a dream come true." She looked at her watch: "I don't want to push you out, but I've to get ready, Angel will get me in an hour. He takes me out for dinner."

*******

The moment she opened the door, Buffy sensed something was wrong with her fiancée, he was barely looking at her, his mind seemed somewhere else. He didn't even compliment on her dress which she had bought the day before especially and she knew it fitted her perfectly.

She gave him a concerned look when he shook hands with Giles and Joyce and led her to his car. The moment they sat inside, he turned to look at her: "Buffy, would you mind if we skip the dinner and just go to my apartment. I know I've promised you a fancy restaurant, but." He stopped and closed his eyes.

"No of course not, but is something wrong?," she asked alarmed. She'd never seen him like that before. So ... helpless. Had it something to do with their wedding? Did he maybe regret his decision? No, that couldn't be. He'd been so excited about it.

"Not now," he shook his head. With this he started the car and they drove to his apartment in silence. When they were upstairs he gestured her to sit down on the sofa while he got drinks for them. Then he took a spot beside her. He emptied his Whiskey with one gulp and that frightened her even more, because usually he barely drank at all.

She put a hand on his knee and looked at him: "Angel, what is the matter? Please talk to me, you frighten me!"

"I'm sorry," he said after a while, but he still didn't look at her. "I had a rough day at the office." Without a warning he wrapped on arm around her shoulder and pulled her close. Then the other arm encircled her as well and he held her so tight she could hardly breathe. Being so close to him she could feel shivers running through his body. After a moment he released her and leaned back. With closed eyes he began to talk: "I didn't mean to frighten you. You remember that case we're on. The boy that ran away?"

"Yes," she said taking his hand in hers.

"We had no clue where he was. Doyle checked every source, every spot, but nothing." He pressed his lips together for a moment as if he was in pain. Buffy squeezed his hand to assure him of her understanding and support. "His parents were almost going mad with worry. Especially because they had a misunderstanding before he disappeared and they blamed themselves for his actions. This afternoon we found him." He paused as if it was too hard to talk. When he finally continued his voice was hoarse and cracking: "He ... he was dead."

Buffy drew in a sharp breath and moved closer to him, leaning her head at his shoulder.

"But that wasn't all," Angel went on. "We called the police as soon as we found him. The medical examiner said that he has been abused. And from the marks on his hand and feet he'd been a captive for some days." He took a deep breath: "It seems that someone took him from the streets, held him captive and abused him for days ... days, think about it. A little boy, only 12 and he must have been so scared."

Buffy could see he was fighting with the tears that threatened to fall. "And then I had to go and tell his parents. His mother broke down. His father seemed to hold himself, but I could see his eyes. There's nothing left for that man anymore. It was their only child. It's bad enough he's dead, but to know he died like this...." Suddenly he turned around to face her: "What kind of world is this?," he asked searching her eyes with a look in his', she'd never seen there before. "How can we honestly think about getting married and having children, when there are people who do something like this?" He leaned back again and closed his eyes.

Buffy was speechless, while she was trying to digest what she'd just heard. What a horrible experience, it was even beyond her imagination and she'd had it pretty rough and seen a lot of things in her 'wild' years. Stroking his arm she said: "I'm so sorry. It must have been awful."

He nodded: "It was. You always read about stuff like that, but you never really think it'll happen around you." He faced her again: "I'm sorry too. For behaving like this. You were looking forward to a nice evening..."

"Stop it," she said, her voice sharper than she intended. "Sorry," she apologized immediately. "I didn't want to sound angry. But don't do this. We're together. We share things. The good ones and the bad ones too. Whom should you talk to if not me? And I want to hear these things, I mean, I'd prefer not to hear them, but I want you to come and tell me everything. I want to be a part of you."

He wrapped an arm around her shoulders, pulled her to him and kissed the top of her head: "This is just. I've honestly never seen something so horrible in my life. Not personally that is. And then I thought that we're going to marry and if we have children ..."

"No, don't say if," she protested. "We will have children. I know you feel as if there's no hope in this world at the moment, but if we give up, if we give in to our grief and fears then we are defeated." She touched his cheek and forced him to look into her eye: "You teached me that. That we have to face our nightmares and not run away. And you were right. In marrying and having children we show that we have still hope that there's a chance for this world." She leaned forward and kissed him on the mouth. He stayed passive for a moment but then kissed her back and deepened the kiss after a while.

When they came up for air, their foreheads still touching, his lips curved into a slight smile: "Did I ever tell you how much I love you?" he asked.

"Hmm," she made. "But you can tell me as often as you want. I never get tired of hearing this. Angel, there's so much beauty in this world, just think about Georgie and little-Daniel. It's like a miracle. I want that too and I want it with you."

"God, what did I do to earn you?," he said in amazement.

"Well, maybe you always ate your breakfast," she joked to lighten the mood.

"You think so, hmmm?," he smiled now. There was still sadness in his eyes, but the despair was gone.

She gently traced the lines of his lips with her fingers: "I'm hungry," she whispered.

"Are you?," he grinned mischievously.

"Mmmm," she made. "Very," her voice was husky and full of passion now.

"I see, that sort of hunger," he teased. "Well, let's see what we can do about that?." With this he stood up, scooped her in his arms and quickly carried her to his bedroom. It was true, there was always hope in this world.

Part 29

Buffy and Joyce were busy decorating the house and garden for their New Year's party while Giles had taken Steven to the zoo in LA. The little boy couldn't get enough of all the animals and this way he was out of the house for the preparations. Cordelia had joined them at noon and now the three women were having a break to drink a cup of coffee.

"How is Doyle?" Buffy asked over sipping from her cup.

"Better," the brunette answered. "He had a nightmare yesterday. They're both taking it pretty heavy."

"It's pretty heavy stuff," Joyce said. "After Buffy told me about it I didn't let Steven out of my sight again. You always read about things like these but now it's as if it has entered our house."

"Yeah. I was meant to accompany them, but due to a new client I had to stay at the office and now I'm glad. The story is scary enough." Cordelia shuddered. She and Buffy had talked about the abused boy the day after Angel had told his fiancée. Doyle had been in a smilar mood that night. And as both men were pretty much used to see horrible things you could only imagine what had happened to this child to make them behave like this.

"Buffy told me you're expecting a baby," Joyce changed the subject.

"Yeah," Cordelia beamed. "And Doyle's hovering over me all the time."

Mrs. Giles laughed: "That's the way it goes. When I was pregnant first Buffy's father and then Rupert treated me like precious porcelain. But you shouldn't complain, just use it shamelessly. Let him do everything, he'll be cured in no time."

"Good idea," the brunette grinned. "So who's coming tonight?"

"Well you, Doyle, Angel, Willow and Oz, Xander and Anya, yeah, that's pretty much the lot," Buffy poured herself some more coffee.

"Xander," Cordelia groaned. "I mean I do call him from time to time and he calls me, but a whole evening with Xander Harris." She sighed dramatically.

"Come on, he isn't that bad," Joyce said. "He was quite annoying when he was a teenage boy, but he's changed a lot and his relationship with Anya seems to work. They're together for four years now."

"Hmmm," the brunette made. "I just cannot see him as an adult. Whenever we phone our talks are about highschool and we joke a little bit."

"Come on girls, let's do the rest of the work, and then we have some lunch." Joyce got up and went into the kitchen.

"Alright," Buffy looked at Cordelia. "Let's get it done. And tonight we celebrate."

The brunette nodded and followed the blonde into the garden.

*******

Doyle arrived at the Giles' house at seven and when he knocked the door was opened in the split of a second: "A... oh, Doyle," Buffy greeted him.

"Nice welcome," he joked regarding her disappointed gaze.

"Sorry," she smiled sheepishly. "I was just hoping...."

He raised a hand: "No need to explain. Angel's coming later. He's still on a case, somewhere in Hollywood."

"Hollywood?," his wife stepped into the hallway. "Someone famous."

He sighed and then embraced her: "I don't know. Hi darlin', how you're doin'. I mean both of you?"

"Fine," she said with a sigh. "Why did I even ask you. You wouldn't recognise a famous actor when he or her would stand right in front of you."

When he saw Giles come into the hallway Doyle pulled back and extended a hand: "Good evening, Mr. Giles," he said to Buffy's step-father. "Thanks for the invitation."

"No need, we're very happy to have you here," he said with a straight face, although Buffy knew how much he hated parties at his house. He endured it for her sake and she loved him for it.

"So what's this case that keeps Angel away from us," Buffy asked with concern in her voice. She didn't want him to have another horrible experience or worse.

"Oh, some actress," Doyle made a gesture with his hand. "I think she's just a little bit eccentric. She thinks someone's stalking her. She called us yesterday after all the articles in the newspapers about the boy." His face became serious and a sad look was in his eyes. His wife laid a sympathetic hand on his arms. He looked up and gave her a slight smile. "The phone is ringing all the time," he continued. "We're famous now." It was obvious that he wasn't happy about it.

"Oh hello, Mr. Doyle," Joyce smiled at him when she came down the stairs. "Sorry I wasn't there when you came in, but I just put Steven into his bed. He was very good today because I promised him to wake him for the fireworks."

"Mrs. Giles, good to see you." Doyle greeted back.

"Why don't you go in the garden with Cordelia and Doyle," she looked at her husband, while Buffy and take care of the food. "The rest of our guests is out there already," she said to Angel's partner.

Giles nodded and the couple followed him to the back door.

At her mother's questioning gaze, Buffy said: "Angel's still busy with a case. Doyle says he'll join us later," she sighed.

Her mother laid an arm around her shoulder: "Come on, honey. We're taking care of the food and then he'll be there in no time."

********

Angel groaned when he climbed out of his car later that evening. His body was aching everywhere. When he'd gone to the actress' house he thought she was just some eccentric woman who wanted to make the acquaintance of a private investigator who'd been mentioned in a newspaper article. But soon he had to realise that she was really stalked.

The stalker was a middle aged man, who had already sent letters and flowers to the actress. And this night he'd decided to make an appearance. The result was a fight between the two men with bare hands and although he'd won and the stalker was safe behind bars by now Angel didn't feel much like celebrating. Tomorrow his body would be black and blue. The guy had had a pretty hard punch.

Looking at his watch he realised it was almost ten and he had promised to be there at eight. But after the fight he had to go home first to take a shower and change clothes. The shirt he'd been wearing he'd to throw away. The stalker had torn it into pieces.

Sighing he made his way to the door and rang the bell. After a while it opened and Buffy stood there. Smiling Angel reached out for her, but she stepped back.

"Buffy?," he asked. "Is something wrong?"

"Do you realise what time it is?," she asked back. "You were meant to be here at eight. Alright, Doyle said you would be a little bit late, but now it's almost ten. Why didn't you call or something?"

"I'm sorry," he tried to apologize, but her gaze was still unforgiving. Sighing he continued: "Look there was just no time to call you. This case was not developing the way we expected it." Again he reached out with one hand but she stepped out of his reach.

"What, she wasn't as bad as you expected?" She knew she was acting irrational, but she had been so scared and now she was angry with him. And a little bit jealous, after all the woman was an actress, wasn't she. That meant she was supposed to beautiful.

"What are you talking about?," Angel was confused.

"Well, maybe you just thought, hey when will I have the opportunity to meet an actress again. So why calling my normal, boring girlfriend?," she said sarcastically.

"This is nonsense," his voice sounded slightly angry now.

"Oh, now it's nonsense," she felt tears welling up in her eyes. God she was pathetic. There was no reason to behave like this. Why then did she do it? And why couldn't she stop? "I'm just a little foolish girl, right?"

"Buffy," he shook his head. "I don't know what this is all about and I never said you're foolish. I know I'm late and I tried to apologize. Can't we just let it be and enjoy the rest of the evening?"

"You can go to hell," she suddenly shouted. "You didn't have a minute to call me?" now her tears were falling freely. "I was so scared that something happened to you. When you told me about that boy I realised how dangerous your job really is." She wiped her eyes, but the tears didn't stop: "I was so scared," he voice was only a whisper now.

With a strangled noise Angel reached out and pulled her to him, this time she didn't try to escape his touch. Suddenly everything fell into place for him. Stroking her head he tried to comfort her: "Shhh. It's okay. Oh, Buffy, I'm so sorry. I didn't think about it. I'm still not used to this, you know having someone who cares for me, for my well-being. I honestly didn't think about your feelings in this."

"I-I th-thought y-you c-could be hurt," she sobbed against his chest. "O-or worse."

"I understand," he replied. "And I promise it won't happen again. Will you accept my apology?"

"A-alright," she sniffed and looked up to him. "But promise you'll call me in the future."

"I swear," he said and kissed her on the forehead. Suddenly he winced when she pressed herself closer to him.

"What?," she looked up in concern.

"Nothing. Really," he assured her. "Nothing serious. This actress, she was sixty, by the way," he said with a slight grin and watched amused when a sheepish look crossed her face.

"I wasn't really jealous," she tried to convince him. "I was just..."

"I know," he kissed her again. "Anyway. She told us she was stalked and we thought she was just an eccentric woman with lots of fantasy. But then the stalker made an appearance in her house tonight. Just when I was there. So we got into a fight and he wasn't that bad. I'm going to be quite black and blue tomorrow."

"Oh god, Angel," she breathed, her fear rising again.

"Buffy," he put his pointer-finger under her chin to make her look at him: "This happens from time to time. But it isn't serious. Really."

"Okay," she replied with a small voice. "I guess, I have to live with this, when I want to be with you." Suddenly her body straightened and with a much more steady voice she added: "And I will. You will see a completely new Buffy."

"Oh I don't know. I quite like it that you care for me and sink into my arms," he joked.

"Sink into your arms, huh? You've got a lot of imagination, buddy. Maybe you've been born in the wrong century where brave knights were saving damsels in distress. Anyway. I will always care for you. And I will always be scared that something could happen to you, but I will learn to deal with it. Cordelia has learned it and I'm certain I can do it too." She smiled now.

"I love you," he said and kissed her a third time.

"I know," she replied and took his hand. "Now let's go, you must be hungry and we have champagne. Giles has bought some bottles. He said we never properly celebrated the engagement and he prefers to do it before the wedding is over," she grinned and pulled him into the garden.

*******

It was a minute before midnight and there were fireworks everywhere in the sky. The couples stood together in the garden and Giles was holding his son on his arms. Steven stared at the lights with wide, excited eyes, his lips forming a permanent 'O'.

Angel had enjoyed the time with their friends, meeting Willow again and getting known to Xander, Anya and Oz. Willow's boyfriend had played his guitar for a while. In Angel's eyes Xander was a bit strange and the look Anya had given him had been more than obvious, but after checking Angel out she had returned her attentions to her boyfriend. So the evening went peacefully and they were laughing a lot. They toasted to the engagement and even Cordelia managed to sip from her Champagne before Doyle took it away from her, much to her annoyance. She tried to explain him that Champagne wouldn't harm the baby, not one single glass, but he would have none of it. And so they were bickering for a while with Xander using the situation much to his own amusement.

"It's only ten more seconds," Giles announced.

"The next time we celebrate New Year I'll be Mrs. Finnegan," Buffy whispered in her fiancée's ear."

"Hmm," he made and pulled her closer.

"Two, one, Happy New Year everyone," Cordelia exclaimed to everyone.

Looking deeply in each other's eyes, Buffy and Angel stood there, holding themselves close: "Happy New Year my love," he said and lowered his head.

"Happy New Year, Angel," she replied before his lips made talking impossible for a while.

Part 30

"How do you feel Angel?," Xander nudged the dark-haired man in the ribs.

His head spun around, while he was tightening his arm around his love at the same time: "Why are you asking that?"

"Well one more night and you're a married man," Xander joked.

"I can hardly wait," Angel replied, his voice deep. Buffy on his side glanced up and smiled.

It was the fifth of January and the whole LA gang had been flying to New York the day before. And now all the young people were strolling through Central Park. It was still white everywhere.

Even Georgie and Gavin had joined them leaving little-Daniel, who had been released from the hospital just two days ago in the care of his grand-mother and Joyce who were fussing over him all the time. The moment Buffy had seen her mother with Angel's little nephew the look in her eyes was clearly telling that she could hardly wait to be a grand-mother.

Sighing and turning his attention back at his girlfriend, Xander shook his head: "That guy is a hopeless romantic."

"Yeah, obviously," Anya commented. There was tone in her voice her boyfriend had never heard before.

"What's the matter honey?"

"Nothing," she shook her head angrily. "Just. A bit more romance wouldn't harm you."

"Hey, I'm the most romantic boyfriend you can imagine," Xander said a little bit hurt.

"Oh please," Cordelia exclaimed smiling at her husband. "When we were dating the peaks of his romantic feelings were kissing me in closets." Suddenly a wicked grin spread over her face and she added: "But when I think about it, it wasn't really that bad. At least it was easy to switch off the lights and pretend I was kissing someone else."

"Hey," Xander cried, while the others were all laughing. Then he looked at Doyle and back at the former cheerleader: "It's not that your taste has really improved my May-Queen."

Cordelia raised one eyebrow and with a look cool as ice she said: "Coming from the very bottom almost everything would've been an improvement."

That shut her former boyfriend up. He looked at Anya who tried to stifle a grin. At that moment Xander wished a hole would open somewhere and swallow him right now.

"So you guys are all living in LA?", Georgie changed the subject.

"Yep," Willow replied and gave her a smile. "Bred, raised and still living there." She sighed: "Does that give the impression of a bore?"

"If," Angel's sister said, "then I'm a bore too. Bred, raised and still living in New York. Even my husband is from here. And with my Scottish-Irish-catholic background. I better go hide in a hole," she joked.

Buffy laughed: "Oh please stay with us. Because for once little-Daniel wouldn't like his mother underground and then we pretty much like you."

Georgie gave her soon-to-be sister-in-law a warm smile: "Thanks. I'm so curious about your dress for tomorrow."

"She won't give me a hint," Angel complained.

"I didn't see your clothes either," Buffy teased.

"Ha,ha, there isn't much of a secret about a tux. It's plain and simple."

"That's the key word," the blonde grinned. "Secret. You know the meaning of it, Angel, don't you? That means you mustn't know it - yet."

"Well, all I can say is that you're going to lose it," Cordelia commented.

"Better not," Georgie laughed. "Not in front of a huge crowd of people in a church.

"Oh god," Buffy paled slightly. "How many guests are coming."

"Well," Georgie narrowed her eyes and thought for a moment. "I think mom said something about two hundred in the church."

Buffy swallowed. Hard. And paled even more.

"And then about fifty at the reception." Angel's sister added mercilessly.

"Reception?," the blonde felt her voice quiver.

Her fiancée tightened his hold on her: "We're doing this together, remember?," he whispered and she nodded but the tension didn't completely leave her body.

200 people in a church watching her wasn't something Buffy wanted to picture. And then a reception. Had Sheila even mentioned a reception, she tried to remember, but failed. Angel's mother and her own had been so busy around her, telling her so many things, she had stopped listening most of the time. Big fault, she thought now.

"But before you're thrown into the depths of hell," Georgie went on and grinned when she saw her brother grimace. "Well, before that, we're going to have the girls' night!"

"Girls night?," Angel raised and eyebrow.

"Dense much?," Cordelia rolled her eyes. "The last evening before the wedding. Girls on their own and boys the same. Remember? You were at Doyle's bachelor party."

Her boss nodded and grimaced again. That wasn't something he wanted to be reminded of. Most of the men there had been drunk after an hour and it was almost a miracle that Doyle could look straight the next day. Nothing Angel wanted to experience. "I was looking forward to a nice quiet evening with my fiancée," he almost whined.

"No way buddy," Georgie grinned. "That's just tradition. You cannot escape it."

"Maybe we just elope to Vegas," Angel whispered into Buffy's ear. "I'm not sure if this all was a good idea."

She grinned but slightly shook her head. He was so cute when he was nervous.

"I got mom and Joyce to watch for the little ones and we're going to enjoy ourselves. Even Loretta is free," Georgie was full of excitement only to get a concerned glance of her husband.

"Easy, my dear," Gavin said and took her hand. "You've just been operated two weeks ago."

"And?," his wife almost glared at him. "I'm fine. And of course I can sit at a table and enjoy an evening with other women."

Her husband sighed, but didn't reply. There wasn't any sense in trying to hold her back. He had accepted that long ago.

*******

"Shouldn't there be some naked women?" Xander said while he was leaning back in his chair. Gavin and Graham had been organising a bachelor party. But knowing their brother or brother-in-law respectively they knew he wouldn't like something wild.

So the men were sitting in a club Gavin knew quite well and talked.

"Is that all you can think about?" Oz rolled his eyes.

"What's wrong with naked women?" Xander wanted to know.

"Nothing," Gavin looked at the young man from LA. In his eyes Buffy seemed to have some weird friends. "But my brother-in-law isn't particularly fond of this form of entertainment and to be frank I'm neither." He exchanged a look with Angel who gave him a grateful smile.

"Now, Spike," Graham tilted his head at the blonde friend of his brother who had arrived in New York only an hour ago. "It's been a long time since we met. Still liking it wild and dangerous?"

The blond grinned: "You know me. And then what chance do I have with Dru at my side." He sighed loudly: "I'm just addicted to her."

Oz looked at Angel: "You guys know each other for a while," he pointed towards Spike.

"Yes," the soon-to-be husband replied. "Actually we went to school together. Spike used to hit the boys who tried to hit me. Of course I was less strong then." He grinned. "We should've known from the start that you'd end up as a bodyguard."

The blond man shrugged: "What can I say. It still bugs me when people are threatened. And besides, it pays quite well."

"Yeah," Gavin grinned and let his gaze wander over Spike's expensive clothing.

"And still Doyle is your best man," Xander asked.

"You would Spike never get to wear a tux," Angel grinned at his childhood-friend. "Never. Doyle on the other hand," he looked over to his partner who grimaced. "Well, let's just say that he'll do anything to please his wife."

"I know exactly what you mean," Spike sighed. "But on the other hand. Aren't the dominant women exciting! I wouldn't exchange mine for the world."

*********

"I cannot believe you did that," Willow was still beet-red and staring at her clasped hands which laid in her lap.

"Oh, come on, Willow. It was fun," Cordelia grinned and looked at Georgie: "Where did you get him?"

"A friend told me about him. Actually I never saw a male stripper before." Angel's sister grinned as well, while Buffy was still recovering from her shock when she realised that the good looking police officer with the handcuffs didn't really come to arrest her.

"He was very sexy," Anya complimented Georgie. "What a body."

"Yeah," Dru licked her lips. "Although I still prefer Spike. He's even better worked out."

"Really?," Anya's head shot around in interest.

"Of course," the black haired girl replied with a nod. "And you should see Angel. They both work out from time to time."

Xander's girlfriend looked back and forth between Buffy and Dru and couldn't help but feel a little bit jealous. It wasn't that she didn't love Xander, but a good looking male body was something she adored. And Angel was so romantic too. She sighed loudly and all the other girls looked at her.

"Any problems?," Loretta asked. She was happy to have a night off. She loved her children, but she missed spending some quality time with friends. And although the bunch from LA were almost strangers for her she enjoyed the evening tremendously.

"Her boyfriend is a jerk," Cordelia informed her.

"He isn't," Anya tried to defend Xander. "It's just. He is not at all romantic."

"Men," Loretta snorted. "They're all the same." When she saw Buffy's look she gave her an apologetic smile. "Soon-to-be husbands don't count. Angel's a real sweetie. He's always been one. I was a little bit in love with him once," she sighed, "but he never even looked at me. And then I fell in love with Graham. But he isn't very romantic either. Just like his Dad."

"Doyle can be very romantic, but most of the time he's just ... Doyle," Cordelia said grinning. "But I can't help loving him nevertheless."

Georgie grinned: "Gavin is great. He is very sweet and thoughtful. But Loretta is right. Angel's always been top in this. I couldn't believe it when he told us that he would go to LA to work as a PI. Violence is something I'd never connect with him. He's much too soft-hearted."

"Yeah," Buffy said, remembering his problems coping with one of his last cases.

"I love my men dangerous and powerful," Dru said with a wicked smile. "And Spike's perfection. And when it's needed he can be so sweet. And," her grin grew wider. "I can always beat him in a hand-to-hand fight."

"You can?," Willow's eyes went wide thinking about Spike's muscular body.

"Of course," Dru shot her an arrogant look. "I'm much better in Karate and Take-Won-Do. Although part of this might be a result of his devotion towards me. When we spar he's always holding back, I think. The only one I never got on his back was Angel." She sighed again and Buffy shot her a look. It wasn't too clear what she really meant. Realising this, the black-haired girl raised her hands: "No, no. I was, I have to admit, desperately in love with him, once. But that was when I was fourteen. I'm over this for a while now."

The same moment the waitress of the club came and brought two bottles of champagne. Seeing the questioning gazes Georgie grinned: "I've ordered it. We have to drink to you, Buffy." Taking a glass she said: "Gavin would kill me if he'd see this. He would lecture me that our baby has to drink parts of it with the milk." She shrugged and grinned even more. "But he isn't there and this is my first glass of champagne in more than nine moths." Raising the glass she looked at her soon-to-be sister-in-law: "To Buffy. And Angel of course. Eternal happiness and love! I'm glad he found you, you know," she wiped a tear from her eye. "Don't ever hurt him. He has a very soft heart and sometimes takes things harder than others. But he loves you. So let's drink to Buffy and Angel."

"To Buffy and Angel," the others said in unison.

Part 31

"Would you just stand still for a moment," Cordelia shouted angrily at the blonde bride who was beyond nervous. "This is just your wedding, not your execution."

"Just my wedding," Buffy echoed. "Cordy, I don't know what your wedding was about, but I'm going to walk down the aisle with two hundred people staring at me. Most of them complete strangers, as I may add."

"I would have loved to do that," the brunette said dreamily. "All I got from Doyle was a nice little church and Angel and my husband's ex-wife as guests. Oh and Xander and Willow of course. But that pretty much sums it up. Afterwards we had a little lunch. We didn't even have a real honeymoon because my precious husband and your fiancée were knee deep in a case." She let out a snort. "So wanna change?"

"I think I would do everything at the moment to escape that, how did did you call it? Oh yeah, execution."

"Oh come on," Georgie grinned when she entered the bride-room. "You're getting my brother in the end. Isn't he worth it?"

A smile spread across Buffy's face: "Yeah," she breathed. "He's definitely worth it."

"So you see," she laid a hand on the blonde's shoulder. "And besides. There's really nothing to worry about. There's not one girl who is as beautiful as you."

Buffy gave her a warm smile: "Thank you."

Georgie made a dismissingly gesture with her hand and turned to Cordelia: "Where did you learn this? Doing the hair?"

"You should know," Willow, who had been sitting on a chair in a corner and was now coming to stand beside Angel's sister. "Cordelia was the most fashionable girl in high-school."

"I see," Georgie grinned again. "The fashion queen. You never told me that one Cordy."

The brunette shrugged and Buffy looked back and forth between the two of them. She'd almost forgotten that Cordelia and Georgie knew each other quite well. Angel had told her that his sister had been with him in LA quite frequently.

"Now, Buffy, if you would hold very still. I want to do you makeup," the former May-queen kneeled down in front of the bride and tilted her head: "Yes," she said after a while. "There are certainly possibilities. Willow, please hand me my make up bag."

********

"There's still half and hour, no need to be nervous," Doyle rolled his eyes and looked at Gavin who stood with his back against the wall and grinned.

"Enough time for her to find a reason not to marry me," Angel was nervously pulling at this shirt.

Graham, who sat in a corner, his legs crossed, laughed: "Brother, that girl is so in love with you. Don't be so nervous. If someone has a reason to be nervous it's Doyle." He raised and eyebrow and grinned wickedly: "Do you have the rings, best-man?"

"The rings?," Doyle's head shot up. Nervously he patted his chest with his hands. "Where are the damned rings?," he hissed and looked at Angel, whose faced matched his expression: raising panic.

"Doyle," the bridegroom's voice was panic-stricken. "I know I gave them to you. And you two, this isn't funny," he hissed towards Gavin and Graham who were laughing really hard.

"Oh," Doyle breathed in relieve and pulled a little box from the pocket of his trousers. "There they are."

"Don't do this," Angel scowled. "Or I'm going to die before I'm even wed."

Slapping the shoulder of his brother-in-law and still laughing, Gavin said: "Relax my friend. This isn't your execution."

"Ha, ha," Angel shot him a look. "I remember a certain bridegroom, who had to run to the bathroom every five minutes before his wedding."

Gavin blushed and turned around while Doyle began to grin. "Very funny," Gavin muttered.

"I thought so," his brother-in-law exchanged a smile with Graham.

The same minute Oz entered the room: "Hey, Angel. You look good," he grinned. "Nervous?"

"Not at all," Graham answered and grinned as well.

Oz raised an eyebrow: "I thought so. Anyway. I talked to the band, Angel. And they said they can do the song."

"Song?," Doyle looked quizzically.

"I asked Oz and his band to do something special on the reception. For Buffy." Angel nodded at Willow's boyfriend: "Thanks. That means a lot to me."

"Take it as our wedding present. Alright then." He looked at his watch. "I'm going to join the crowd in the church now." With this he opened the door and left while Mrs. Finnegan entered.

Coming to stand in front of her younger son she put her hands on his chest: "I'm so happy for you," she said with a smile. "How do you feel?"

"What do you think?," her son answered with another question.

"Angel, it's good to be nervous. It only shows that this is important for you. That's the way it should be. Your father was a nervous wreck on his wedding day and look. We're still together. I cried for almost an hour," she stroked her son's cheek. "But when you see her coming down the aisle. It's a moment you'll never forget." She turned when she heard the door: "Oh see, there he comes."

Daniel Finnegan smiled at his wife and kissed her softly. "I've come to get you. Only five more minutes my son," he winked at Angel. "Time for your mother and I to take our spots. See you later." With this he took his wife's hand and they left the room. He and Angel had already talked this morning. Daniel didn't want an auditory for the words he had to say to his son.

//Angel found his father sitting in the living-room with his newspaper when he came down at five o'clock in the morning. He couldn't sleep that night.

"You're early," Daniel looked up and smiled. "Take a coffee. I just made it."

His son nodded and poured himself a cup.

"You couldn't sleep." It was more a statement than a question. Mr. Finnegan went on: "I was the same when I got married to your mother. Too nervous," he grinned. "We both were."

Sipping from his coffee Angel looked at his father: "Whoever invented that stupid tradition that bride and groom cannot spend the night before the wedding together was a torturer. I would be much better if she'd been by my side." Buffy and her family and friends had spent the night at Angel's aunt who had a house only some blocks away.

"You young people," Daniel shook his head. "I only kissed your mother before we were married."

"You didn't," Angel blushed. "I mean..." It wasn't that he was nervous talking about sex, but to talk with your father about him having sex with your mother was quite strange.

"No. We didn't," his father grinned. "I respected her too much to try anything, although I was tempted," he sighed. "Severely tempted. She was the most beautiful girl I'd ever seen. And we had to wait six months. So talk about torture."

His son nodded. "I just hope, this is going to work. You know, our marriage. I love her so much. But I was thinking if I did the right thing asking her. So soon, I mean."

"That's a good sign," Daniel looked at him. "It means you care for her feelings. But I never doubted that. You were always the most sensitive of our children." He smiled: "I remember that morning when you accidentally stepped on that worm. You were four and cried the whole day because you took a life. That moment I knew we had to be very careful with you."

Angel laughed: "Well, I don't cry for a worm anymore."

"No," his father's face was serious. "But you know what I mean. That was so like you. When your mother told me about your phone-call, you know when you had the case with the abused boy. This was the reaction I expected from you. You feel very deeply. It's a blessing when it comes to love but a curse when you're hurt. For this Buffy is right for you. She's gone through a lot and knows what it means to be hurt. You both love each other and you won't hurt each other intentionally. She knows that a human soul can be damaged easily."

Angel rolled his eyes: "Dad, stop that. You're making me sound like a ...," he waved his hand. "I don't know like what."

Daniel reached out and took his sons hand: "Don't be nervous. Love her. Then everything will be alright. And about the "too-soon-thing". I knew I would marry your mother the first moment I saw her."

"Thanks Dad," Angel squeezed his father's hand. "I love you."

"I love you too, my son." //

Angel looked at Doyle, Gavin and Graham had left the room just a minute ago: "Okay. Let's go. Let's get married." And a smile spread across his face. No he wasn't nervous anymore. This was going to be the best day of his life.

*******

"Buffy," Giles peered into the room. "It's time." Seeing his step-daughter standing there and smiling at him he stared at her in awe: "God, you're so beautiful."

"Thanks," she smiled.

"Nervous?"

"I was, but now I'm excited," she replied and looked at Cordelia, Willow and Anya who were in their pale pink bridesmaid-dresses and all of them looked beautiful as well. "I'm going to marry the man I love more than anything. Why should I be nervous?"

"I'm so proud of you," Giles felt tears in his eyes. "When you disappeared all those years ago I never thought we would stand here like this."

Hearing a sniffling noise from Buffy, Cordelia raised her hand: "No, don't make her cry. We have no time to repair possible damage. She has to look perfect or I'm going to lose my reputation."

Buffy and her step-father chuckled and he held out his arm for her: "Now, may I escort the bride?"

"It's a pleasure," she replied.

Part 32

The music began to play and I turned around. The first I saw was little-Sheila, carrying a basket and throwing rose petals on the floor. She grinned from ear to ear. As she was only two years her brother who was walking behind her was told he should watch out that she wouldn't miss the right way. Sam was annoyed, beyond annoyed, that he had to look out for his little sister and a slight chuckle escaped my lips when I saw his nose wrinkled in disgust when he gazed at her. He and Steven came behind her. Each of them carrying a ring on a little cushion. We had to make each one of them carry one ring because otherwise one would've felt left out. Surprisingly none of the children seemed to mind all the guests in the church. Many of them were distant relatives of my parents but the children didn't know most of them.

Then the first bridesmaid to appear was Anya. I hadn't seen their dresses before today, Buffy had been very secretive about the whole clothing. It was the palest pink, they were full length, with puffy sleeves and looked wonderful. I could see Xander gasp at her sight and had to smile.

Cordelia was the next to come and I heard my best man draw in a sharp breath. The last of the bridesmaids was Willow. She gave Oz a sweet smile before she found her place beside the other two girls. They were all smiling and Cordelia winked. I wasn't sure if it had been for me or for her husband, but I didn't care because that moment I saw her.

*

I was standing in the back of the church, my arm firmly on Giles' and saw them walk down the aisle. First the children and then my friends. It was a beautiful church, with lovely windows and an unbelievable atmosphere. I have never been religious and I know that Angel mainly gave in to his parent's wishes when we decided to have this sort of a ceremony, but now I was glad we did.

I was so scared of all the people, but it's gone now. I just felt excited, I was going to marry Angel and I didn't care how many people were going to watch it, because I wanted the whole world to know how much we loved each other.

Giles looked down at me with an odd expression on his face. I know he felt happy for me but also sad because I would no longer live with them. I was glad though that he had accepted he wouldn't loose me this way. He put his other hand on top of mine that was resting on his arm and smiled at me and when the wedding march started we began to walk.

*

I almost forgot to breathe. She looked so beautiful, like transported from a dream. Her white dress was full length too and it was a dream of silk and lace. The sleeves were full length and made of the finest silk that was shining like silver. The top was tight and went over into a wide skirt. Her hair was curled around her head with white flowers inbetween.

I could only stare at her and I knew that I would never in my life love anyone the way I loved this woman. It was as if I finally found home seeing her slowly walking towards me on the arm of her step-father, who seemed very proud and whose face didn't show the resentments he'd had at first anymore. I was glad, because Buffy loved him so much.

And then our eyes met and she smiled.

*

I couldn't take my eyes from him. First I had to suppress a giggle when I saw him. He had the oddest expression on his face, as if he'd seen a miracle. But then his eyes began to focus on me and a smile spread across his face. God, he looked so handsome in his tux. And the way he looked at me, his eyes so full of love, devotion and admiration, it almost took my breath away.

As we passed the people sitting on each sides I barely saw them. From the corner of my eye I saw my mother with tears in her eyes as had Sheila. Daniel tried to look as if he had something in his eyes, he would never admit how touched he was.

When we came to stand in front of the altar my eyes locked with his. And I knew this was all I ever wanted and I felt deliriously happy. I had to blink, to stop tears from falling.

Then the priest said: "Whose giving this woman to this man." It's an old, almost ancient phrase, but it's so true. I do belong to him. And he belongs to me.

"That's me," Giles said beside me. "Me and her mother." And with this he put my hand in Angel's, who pulled it to his mouth and planted a soft kiss on it, smiling at me assuringly. He still thought I was nervous. I leaned forward and quickly breathed a kiss on his cheek while I whispered: "I'm fine, don't worry."

He smiled and nodded in response. And then the priest began to speak.

*****

I wasn't able to follow the words of the priest most of the time. Too many thoughts were in my head and I glanced over to her ever so often. Most of the times our eyes would meet for a short moment. It was as if we both could hardly believe that so much happiness was possible.

I had to smile from time to time hearing the sniffling behind us. The women of my family were always built near the water. Then I felt Buffy squeezing my hand and turned to look at her again. With a nod she pointed my attention at the priest who was looking at me expectantly. Grinning at me he repeated:

"Do you Angel Rogan Finnegan take this woman, Buffy Anne Summers to your lawfully weeded wife? Will you love and honour her, will you protect her and hold her? Will you be with her for better and for worse, until death do you part, then answer with yes."

"Yes," I said and it felt as if the door to a new life has just opened and bright sunshine was streaming on my face. I knew there was no sun in this church and is was chilling cold out there, but that's how I felt.

"And do you Buffy Anne Summers take this man, Angel Rogan Finnegan to your lawfully wedded husband? Will you love and honour him, will you protect and hold him? Will you be with him for better and for worse until death do you part, then answer with yes."

*

"Yes," I answered and I knew then that it was for real. I had vowed to be Angel's wife and it was the best feeling on earth.

"May we have the rings please?," the priest, who Sheila had told me was Father Matthew, asked and looked at my brother and my new nephew. Sam stepped forward and held his hand with the cushion out to his uncle. He took the ring and touched the boy's head slightly, which made Sam smile in pride.

"Angel," Father Matthew began. "Please repeat my words. With this ring I thee wed."

"With this ring I thee wed," Angel said, his voice loaded with emotion. Then he slipped the golden band on my finger. I can hardly put it into words what I felt that moment. But I knew nothing in my life had ever felt so right.

I took Angel's ring from Steven's cushion and the priest asked me to say the same.

"With this ring I thee wed," I repeated and placed the ring on his finger as well.

Father Matthew entwined our left hands and put a symbolic band over them. Smiling at us he said: "You've vowed to love and protect each other, you exchanged rings as a sign of your devotion. With this I declare you husband and wife." Then his gaze wandered to Angel and he removed the band: "You may kiss the bride now."

*

I turned at her and saw that she smiled. The love beamed in her eyes and I felt truly blessed. Blessed with the love this beautiful, unique woman feels for me. This is the most precious present I've ever recieved in my life and I hope I'll ever prove myself worthy of it.

Our hands still entwined our lips met. The kiss was sweet at first but soon she put her arms around my neck to pull me closer and I encircled her waist.

I was kissing and holding my wife, the person I loved more than anything. I had the feeling I had to burst with happiness. So I pulled back slightly and looked into her eyes and out of a spontaneous emotion I threw my head back and laughed. I didn't know what the people in the church thought about me but honestly I didn't care. Gazing back at my wife I saw the amusement in her eyes because of my behaviour and without thinking I shouted: "I love you," so that the whole church would hear it. I wanted everyone to know how much she meant to me.

Her eyes lit up with happiness and joy and then she laughed as well and shouted repeating my words: "I love you."

We held each other close for a moment, before someone touched my shoulder. I turned and saw my parents smiling at us. A grin spread across my face and letting go of Buffy I hugged both, while she did the same with her parents.

"See you soon at the reception," my mother whispered in my ear and I nodded.

Then I turned back to my bride and we both took each others hands. "Let's go," I whispered in her ear. "There's reception waiting for us, and I want to get you on your own for five minutes before that."

She smiled in agreement and with the cheering of our families and friends behind us we left the church.

*

We were breathless when we were finally sitting in the car that drove us to the hotel where the reception was to be held. As soon as the doors were closed he leaned over and kissed me again. I have never seen him like this before, so carefree and happy and knowing that I was the reason for this filled me with joy and little bit pride.

We both smiled, our foreheads were still touching, when we broke the kiss. "Can't we just skip this reception and start with the wedding night," I asked him with a wicked grin.

Grinning back he shook his head: "No. No way. First there are our families and friends and we don't want to disappoint them. Our mothers have had lots of work to prepare this. Then there is something I've planned for you and thirdly," he paused and kissed me. When he spoke again his voice was hoarse with passion: "Some things are worth waiting for."

And then he kissed me again, a kiss that was a promise of all the things to come later.

Part 33

Angel and Buffy arrived at the reception a little late, but nobody cared. Georgie just winked at them when they entered the ballroom. Oz and his band were busy setting up on the stage. They had agreed to play at the reception, while Sheila was busy introducing Joyce to all the people present who were mostly members of either her's or Daniel's family. Mr. Finnegan and Giles on the other hand were sitting at a table in a corner obviously deep in conversation. Both weren't fond of gatherings like these and glad to have found someone to talk to.

When Sheila saw the newlyweds enter the room her eyes lit up and she waved them to come over: "Angel, Buffy, my dearest," she greeted them with a smile. Pulling a handkerchief from her pocket she wiped it over her son's cheek: "You've got lipstick there," she said with a grin. He blushed a little but smiled too. "Got distracted on the way," Sheila winked at Buffy, who blushed as well. "Now, now," she took the blonde's hand. "You're newlyweds, that's quite understandable. We were waiting for you," she then said and turned to Joyce who was standing next to her.

"Yes," Buffy's mother nodded. "They want to bring champagne and then Rupert and Daniel have prepared a little speech." When she saw her daughter roll her eyes she laughed: "Only short, I promise, and then there's just dancing."

"Alright," Buffy sighed looking at Angel. "Let's get over with." In response he grinned and his mother waved at the waiters to bring the champagne.

When everyone held a glass in their hands Giles and Daniel went for the stage and the microphone. "Test, test," Mr. Finnegan said and then looked at the assembled crowd. "I'm glad you all came today," he began with a smile. "As the father of the groom I've been told I have to say something. Those of you who know me well will also know that I hate to talk in public, so this will be short I assure you." He cleared his throat and some laughter was to be heard. "When my son was born we immediately knew that we had received a very special child. That was the reason we named him Angel. I'm sure for a long time he hated us for it." More laughter came from the people and Daniel smiled at his son. "Anyway. He has always been a wonderful son and always lived up to our expectations and hopefully also to his' and the moment Buffy entered our house I knew he brought us a wonderful daughter-in-law too. I hope I won't hurt anyone when I now say that I've never seen a couple so much in love before. All I hope for them is that they will never lose it. That they will stay that happy for the rest of their lives." He raised his hand which held the glass. "To Buffy and Angel," he said loudly.

"To Buffy and Angel," the guests repeated and drank.

"And now let me introduce you to Buffy's step-father, Rupert Giles, who has to say some words too." With this he stepped aside and Giles took the microphone.

"I met Buffy two years after her father died. She was twelve by then and missed her dad very much. We both went to bad and good times but I always loved her dearly. As some of you might know I didn't approve of her relationship with Angel first, but I soon realised that I was wrong. Their love is so strong, it's almost palpable. So I just want to say that I wish you all happiness and I love you Buffy." He raised his glass now too. "To Buffy and Angel."

"To Buffy and Angel," the guests repeated again.

"And now, let's dance and have fun," Daniel said into the microphone. Both men left the stage and came over to the couple.

"Oh Giles," Buffy said between tears and hugged him tightly. "I love you too."

"I know," he replied and held her close. "Be happy, Buffy."

She nodded: "I will, we will. Don't worry."

Glancing over to Angel who stood talking to his father he smiled: "I will always worry. That's what parents do, but I know you both belong together. If I hadn't realised it before, today would be the proof. You look radiant."

"May I kidnap my wife for a moment?" Angel took Buffy's hand and looked at Giles. "I think we should open the dance now.

"Sure," Giles nodded. "She's your wife after all."

"That she is," Angel replied and his eyes locked with Buffy's again. Then he tore his gaze away and nodded at Oz. Turning back to his wife he said: "This song is for you. I choose it especially because it expresses how I feel. May I have this dance, Mrs. Finnegan?"

"With pleasure, Mr. Finnegan," she smiled and both went to the dancefloor. The music began to play. It was a slow piece and she put her hands around his neck, resting her head at his chest while his head lay on top of hers.

For all I've been blessed in this life
There was an emptiness in me I was imprisoned by the power of gold With one honest touch you set me free

Let the world stop turning
Let the sun stop burning Let them tell me love's not worth going through If it all falls apart I will know deep in my heart The only dream that mattered had come true In this life, I was loved by you

"It's beautiful song," she breathed and looked up into his eyes. "I love it."

"I thought so," he smiled. "Sometimes I think words aren't enough to show you how much I love you."

"I love you too," she smiled back.

"You look so beautiful today," he stroked her cheek.

As an answer she snuggled closer at his chest, completely oblivious to the many eyes that watched them dance.

For every mountain I have climbed
And every raging river crossed You were the treasure that I longed to find Without your love I would be lost

Let the world stop turning
Let the sun stop burning Let them tell me love's not worth going through If it all falls apart I will know deep in my heart The only dream that mattered had come true In this life, I was loved by you

In this life I was loved by you

In this life I was loved by you

When the song ended their lips met in a sweet kiss and they broke apart when Buffy felt a hand on her shoulder: "May I dance with the bride?" Daniel smiled.

"Of course," Angel smiled at his father too and then went to his bride's mother.

"Joyce," he held out his hand.

"It's a pleasure," she replied with a smile of her own.

This went on for a while. They danced with different partners and sometimes together. Then after a while Doyle and Cordelia came to take them to the bunch from LA. They were all smiling: "We have a present for you," Willow said in excitement, clasping her hands.

"Actually we do have some presents, but you'll get them when you're back home. We didn't want to carry them," Cordelia added with a smile. "But that," she held out an envelope, "is for now."

With a raised brow Angel took the envelope from her and opened it. He and Buffy read the card inside and when they both looked up they seemed both truly touched. "That's wonderful," the blonde said while a tear ran from her eye. "Giving us your life-long friendship means everything to us." She looked at Angel who nodded.

"She's right. That's a wonderful present."

"I'm glad you like it," Xander grinned. "We weren't so sure if this wasn't too ridiculous, you know. Some words written on a card.."

"Oh no," Buffy shook her head emphatically. "This is very sweet and thank you so much for this. It's worth more than any present could be. True friendship is very rare and we will never take it for granted."

They were about to hug each other when Sheila interrupted them: "Children," she laid a hand on Angel's and Buffy's shoulder. "You have to cut the cake. Come on."

It was a huge cake, Sheila had made herself of course. She would've been insulted if they'd ordered it. With an enormous knife in their hands they cut right through and Joyce held out a plate for them. Buffy was feeding Angel and he did the same with her while the guests applauded. Then Sheila and Joyce and some waiters of the hotel served the other people in the room with it.

Afterwards the dance went on.

It was already dark outside and Angel was talking to Gavin and Graham when he realised that Buffy wasn't in the ballroom anymore. Excusing himself to his brother and brother-in-law he went to look for her.

He found her standing in the winter garden of the hotel. She was sitting on a bench, leaning back and looking to the stars. She started slightly when he sat down beside her: "Hey," he said softly. "I was looking for you and you were gone."

She sighed: "It's beautiful out here. The stars are so clear, so pure. Maybe it's because of the cold. And I'm sitting here seeing this and feeling warm," she laughed and then faced him. "I just had to think for a while."

"And will you tell me what you were thinking about?"

"Us. The wedding, our short past, our future, everything." She turned her gaze to the sky again. "I'm so happy Angel. I've never been so happy in my life. So I was thinking if it can stay that way or if this perfect happiness has to end sometime, maybe we're going to fall very hard, very soon."

He reached out and stroked her cheek ever so softly with his fingertips: "Heavy thoughts on such a wonderful day? Why?"

"Maybe because of my past, because I've experienced that feelings can change. I think I'm just afraid that this, us, won't last." Now she turned and looked at him again.

Gently he took her face between his hands and placed a sweet kiss on her lips. Gazing deeply into her eyes he said: "I will not promise you heaven on earth, because that'd be a lie and we both know it. There'll be good and bad times, but I promise to be by your side as long as I'm breathing. I love you so much, you're everything to me. And I want nothing more than to spend the rest of my life with you." With his thumbs he wiped the tears away that were falling from her eyes, then he kissed her on her eyelids. "And I hope that I will only cause you happy tears like these in the future."

"I love you," she whispered. "You're the one, Mr. Finnegan," she smiled.

"Mrs. Finnegan," he stood up and took her hand. "May I have this dance?" he asked politely while the music from the ballroom was sounding in their ears.

"Here?," she asked.

"Most certainly." He took her in his arms and they began to sway to the music. "When we're old and wrinkly we will tell our grand-children that we danced on our wedding in a winter garden under the stars and the full moon. I love you Buffy, this is the best day of my life too."

She sighed and leaned her head at his chest. This was where she wanted to be and there she would stay for the rest of her life. By His Side.

Just a note: there might be sequel (if I get enough requests of course), but not right now. I just have another story in my head I want to write first. But then maybe... I've some ideas how to continue the story, so if you want it ... tell me!!!

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