Disclaimer: Of course they do not belong to me - although I wish they would. Things would be happier especially for Buffy and Angel..., however they belong to Joss, Mutant Enemy and other companies. I am only borrowing them for some time. So please don't sue.
Rating: like the show, it's angsty and fluffy
Summary: Set in the third season, withing the episode "Amends". What if Buffy and Angel actually had made love...

Part 1

Buffy did not know what was pushing her to the old mansion. She hadn't seen Angel for some weeks. When Spike showed them their true feelings she been so afraid, so confused, she just broke up with Angel. She would never forget his pleading eyes that there had to be a possibility they could see each other, but she couldn't. She did not trust herself. Seeing him, feeling him but not touching him was a torture she could not stand any longer. Every part of her body cried for him, her lips were seeking for his, her body was longing for the touch of his hands. Spike had read her mind, she was betraying herself for a long time but Spike wiped everything away. She loved Angel, she longed for him.

It was the Christmas evening and she had been out shopping the day before when she bumped right into him. Obviously he had not seen her. Buffy had never seen him so confused before, he was barely looking at her, speaking only some words and obviously frightened by something or someone she could not see.

Buffy had hardly slept the following night, Angel was everywhere in her thoughts. When she woke up in the morning she could only think of him, she was so concerned.

After inviting Faith to the Christmas dinner, her mother had insisted on that, she just went to the mansion. Carefully she opened the door:

"Angel?"

No answer. She looked at her watch, it was around noon, so he might sleep, she thought. Buffy went round the corner and into his bedroom. Angel lay on his bed only wearing pants, the cover was removed, the bed looked as if he had been tossing and turning in his sleep. His body was wet, his hands were gripping into the sheds and the same moment he cried: "No, no, I didn't."

Buffy was at his bed at once, shaking his shoulders: "Angel, please wake up. What is the matter?"

His eyes shot open, he looked even more confused than he had looked the day before. Finally his eyes seemed to focus her and he whispered: "Buffy?"

"Yes, Angel. What is the matter with you?"

His answer was another question: "Why are you here?"

"I was... I thought. Angel what happened?"

He turned his head away and stood up: "Buffy, this is not your business. Please leave."

Buffy was hurt by his harsh words but she could not blame him for them. She had been very rude too, she remembered. So she simply pleaded: "Angel, please do not push me away."

He laughed painfully: "Do you not miss something here? You said, you would not want to see me again."

"Angel, I know I hurt you, but please let me help you."

"You cannot help me."

He turned away. She went around him to look him in the eye:

"Angel, please tell me. Trust me."

He looked at her and Buffy could see the barriers breaking. He went back to the bed, sat down and said: "I had dreams," his voice only a whisper.

"Dreams?"

"Yes, about the past. The ... people ... the ones I ... killed."

"Oh, Angel." Buffy reached out to touch his cheek but he flinched away.

"They were showing me..."

"Showing you. Who?"

"Miss Calender. She showed me ... what I am."

"And what are you?"

"Yes...," he stood up again and his voice became louder: "I am a monster, Buffy. I have always been a monster, even when I was human, and I will stay one. I have killed people just for fun. I have tortured people and enjoyed it, people I care for."

Buffy could see his whole body was shaking and tears were running down his cheeks. She stood up and slung her arms around his waist:

"Angel, that is not true and you know that."

He removed her arms, turned round and she could see the sudden anger in his eyes when he shouted: "Not true? Buffy, I did all these things. You of all the people should remember what I did to you, to your mother, what I tried to do to Willow..." his voice broke.

Buffy shook her head: "No, Angel. I did a lot of thinking the last weeks. You are not responsible for this. The demon was in control of your body. Your soul and that means you was not present to prevent him from doing what he did. You would never do such things, I that now."

"This is far too easy, Buffy. The demon is a part of me, a part of my so called life. And Miss Calender was showing me that. And she also tried to convince me to take you, to kill the pain and to hurt you again. That I would feel better afterwards..."

"Angel..."

"No, Buffy. Wait. The point is there is a part of me that wants to follow this. I want you so much..." he turned round and Buffy could see the passion in his eyes:" I want you although it would cost my soul. And the worst part is there is some part of me that does not care."

Buffy looked at him, she was no more able to listen to his words, she was simply lost in his eyes, the dark brown eyes deep like the sea. Angel did not speak anymore, their eyes locked. Buffy went one step forward, Angel did the same and without thinking anything they lay in each others arms, kissing.

Both of them were so hungry for each other they were not able to stop what was not allowed. Their heads were not able to control their bodies anymore. Both removed their clothes the same time and passion took over. When Buffy felt him moving, felt their bodies clung together she felt as if all the stars would explode the same time and both reached the climax together.

It needed some minutes before Buffy was able to breathe again. She turned to look in his eyes. Angel lay beside her, his eyes full of concern:

"Oh my god, Buffy, what have I done?"

She smiled: "Nothing, Angel, nothing I did not want too."

He took her arms in his hands: "You know what that means, right?"

That was the moment when reality hit her, tears sprung in her eyes. Angel said: "Buffy, promise me something."

"Everything."

"Promise you will kill me."

"What?!" Buffy looked at him in complete shock: "What did you say?"

His hand touched her cheek: "I will lose my soul. Not now, but in some hours. I love you so much and I could not have been happier I was just right now. I cannot become a monster again. Promise you will kill me when it happens."

Her lower lip was quivering and the tears were running down her cheeks, she whispered: "I cannot, Angel, I love you, I love you so much."

He smiled: "I know. And for this love you have to swear to me, you will do it."

"But Angel. We don't know that. I mean, we don't know if you will lose your soul."

"We do," he said very soft: "but I am not asking you to kill me right now, only if..."

"You can't make me do this. Not now, not after..."

He shook her shoulders: "Buffy, you are the slayer. You are strong. But I cannot become ... him again."

"But Angel, we could curse you again."

"No," he shouted: "there will be always the danger. No. Promise me, Buffy."

Buffy felt as if someone was ripping her heart out of her chest. Her guts felt like a big knot. But she also saw his pleading eyes, the eyes that showed all the love for her. Slowly she nodded:

"For the love. I promise."

He sighed and turned round obviously searching for something: "Where are the chains?"

"The chains?"

"The ones you used for me when I came back from hell."

"They are over there." She pointed to a box in the far corner. Angel put his pants on, went over and chained himself to the wall. Buffy looked at him:

"And what happens now?"

"We wait."

*******

Buffy simply sat on the bed and looked at him. Both of them had lost control and Angel should now be the one to pay. It was not fair. She had come to him, he hadn't forced her in anything. She looked at him again, he sat with his back to the wall, eyes closed and waiting for the inevitable. Then he opened his eyes again:

"Buffy, whatever happens, please never forget I love you very much, I love you more than anything in the world and wherever I will be I'll always love you. And never forget what you promised me."

Then he closed his eyes and went quiet again.

Buffy could not put her eyes from him. He looked so beautiful, all her mind saw were his loving eyes, he had such a precious soul, such a wonderful soul. She had never loved him as much as she did now. All she wanted was run to him and hold him to make the pain go away. But she also knew he would not want that at the moment. She was so concentrated on him that she did not even realise she was falling asleep

Part 2

Angel sensed that Buffy had fallen asleep and so he dared to open his eyesagain. The breath taking tableau she made sleeping in his bed was so beautiful, so peaceful. It seemed as if nothing on earth could ever harm her. He'd never thought it was possible that he could love her more than he already did, but today he felt infinitely more close to her. The petite blonde was able to see into his soul, past all the horror and blood in his unlife and still, she loved him without any reservations. He blamed himself for being so weak, had they been right? Had it always been his destiny to hurt her? He shook his head unable to believe this to be true. The thought was too much to bear. His only wish had always been to protect her, but he had failed in this, no matter how good his intentions had been. Because of his weakness he had not been able to stay away from her, because of his weakness he had made love to her and hurt her more than anyone else in her young life. She had had to grow up so quickly because of him. Angel closed his eyes against the guilt. It nearly tore him apart thinking what he had demanded from her only an hour ago. He knew she loved him and he knew what he had asked her for, was a great sacrifice, especially after theevents with Acathla. He also understood that the moment the Slayer realised that her killing him would mean sending him to Hell - AGAIN - that this knowledge would shatter her soul. Possibly forever.

But it was better this way than risk the chance of him tormenting her as he had done only about a year ago. He only prayed that his demon wouldn't have an opportunity to taunt his love again with his cruel words. Angel rested his head back against the wall... and waited.

*********

Buffy awoke with a start and the first thing she realised was that it was already dark outside. She wondered how many hours had passed. Involuntarily her hand reached out for her neck and she sighed when her touch couldn't detect anything difference there. Her heart was beating in her throat when she slowly twisted back around to face Angel or... HIM.

She inhaled sharply, the chains were hanging from the wall, but Angel was gone. Oh god, she thought, where is he? Maybe the demon is already across town, killing and tormenting my friends. She cursed herself for falling asleep, for letting her lover down. She had promised him she'd kill him, vowed that she would never again allow that monster free reign over Sunnydale - and she had failed. Suddenly she heard a noise outside the mansion. The Chosen One sprung out of bed, stake firmly in hand and waited anxiously, her form hidden behind a thick drape.

Only seconds later Angel appeared in the hall carrying two bags. Buffy frantically searching her lover's eyes, the fear rising steadily inside of her that instead she would peer into the fiendish, steely-eyed gaze of the demon she wished she had never known.

Her voice only the barest of whispers she tentatively spoke her lover's name: "Angel?"

The startled vampire jolted and the bags nearly fell from his grasp, however his preternatural reflexes kicked in, preventing any mishap from occurring. He immediately set them down on the low table and walked over to the window where his true love had revealed herself.

"Buffy", he answered in a low voice.

She stepped nearer to him, her eyes continuing to probe his. When he reached out a hand for her she stepped back. His voice was very soft when he shyly spoke "It didn't happen, Buffy."

When he saw her questioning eyes he repeated, "It didn't happen, Buffy. I didn't lose my soul, I'm still here. I don't know why, but ..." was all he was able to say as Buffy launched herself into his embrace, sprinkling kisses all over his face.

"Why did you leave?" she inquired in between kisses.

He smiled at her, "You were sleeping so peacefully and I thought my girlfriend might be hungry when she woke up."

She reluctantly tore her gaze from his face and peeked over his shoulder, "So you went ... shopping?", her almost unbelieving eyes attempting to ascertain his purchases.

Angel chucked warmly, "I did. My refrigerator is sort of empty, well not exactly empty, but ... you know."

She nodded and laughed herself "I understand. But, Angel it's evening and I'm supposed to have Christmas dinner in ... Oh god - mom! Angel, my mother is preparing Christmas dinner. I only went to talk to Faith," she rolled her eyes. "My mom insisted on inviting her to our house, to make friends. I don't know why, but she seems to like her. Which is strange because Faith is anything but a normal girl and mom always blamed me for not being normal enough..."

"Buffy, does this ramble come to a point sometime?"

"Sorry, babbling. Point is I have to go home or at least phone her, to tell her I'll be late."

The ensouled vampire nodded "Good idea, you don't want her to worry about you."

"Would you come with me?"

"What?"

"To Christmas dinner."

"Ummm... Buffy, it's not that I wouldn't love to, but I get the feeling your mother wouldn't appreciate having me as a guest at Christmas."

"Hush. She made me invite Faith so I should have the right to bring someone I choose."

Angel laughed again, her logic was just confounding. He sighed, "If you insist..."

"I do."

He became serious again, "Buffy, there's something we have to do first. I need answers."

"Answers?"

He nodded, "Yes. The curse didn't break. Why? You said Willow re-cursed me, right?"

"She did, while I was fighting ... HIM ... she re-cursed you from her hospital bed."

"Then we need to see Willow. As soon as possible"

"Right. We can stop by her house on the way to mine. It's not as if she'd be celebrating a holiday today anyhow. I'll just call my mom first, so she knows I'm on my way."

********

They reached Willow's house after half an hour. Buffy could feel the tension in Angel's hand as he held hers, but she was so happy she didn't pay attention to it. They had made love and nothing had happened, maybe that would give then a chance - at last.

Buffy rang the doorbell and Willow answered "Buffy... Angel. What's the matter?"

Buffy wanted to answer but Angel did it instead "Willow, we have to talk to you, can we come in?"

"Sure, come on in. I'm her by myself. My parents are out of town for a couple of days."

Angel nodded and spoke again "It's about the curse."

"The curse?" she queried.

"Can you remember the words, Willow, the precise words you used when you re-cursed me?"

Willow didn't understand what he was getting at. "The words?"

Buffy laid a hand on Angel's arm and said "Willow. Angel and I have been ... together. It kinda happened."

Willow stepped back, her face paled "Together? As in in-one-bed together? Oh... and I invited him in again. And now he's gonna become evil and..."

Buffy took Willow's hand "Willow, calm down. Breathe slowly, come on. Better now?"

When her friend nodded, Buffy continued "The point is, Willow, the soul-lossage thing didn't happen."

Willow was still wary, "Are you sure?"

The look on her face made Buffy laugh. "Yeah, we're sure. We ... it ... er... the incident... occurred earlier this afternoon and according to the last time... Angel's soul should've been gone hours ago."

Angel had become uncharacteristically impatient, "So, Willow, do you definitely remember the words you used?"

"The words ... sure. You know I still have the disk, but I'm not sure that will be of any help here."

"Why?"

"It was weird, you know? When I was re-cursing you I began the spell in English but then something... some force.. took over. Afterward Oz told me I was speaking in a foreign language and in a strange voice. So I have no way of duplicating what I said... without actually performing the spell."

"I see. Where do you keep the disk, Willow?"

"Oh, the disk. Just wait here, I'm going to load it and get a print-out," she turned and left the room, calling over her shoulder, "This'll only take a few minutes."

Buffy sidled up to Angel, "Are you sure this is really important, Angel? I mean we already know that the happiness clause seems to have been left out."

"We know that, but what I want to know is if there is something else we don't know about, like a new loophole in it."

Buffy nodded in understanding:

"Oh... gotcha. You're right, we need to know if anything else was added to Ms. Calendar's version."

"This is the text. I printed the original version and the one Ms. Calender translated." Willow had returned to the room and handed the sheets to Angel.

When he started to read the Romanian version she gasped, "You can understand that?"

He shrugged "I *have* been around for a while."

Willow whispered to Buffy, "How many languages does he speak?"

"I don't know, but I'd be willing to bet more than Giles."

Willow giggled. Buffy observed Angel carefully, he had finished reading the pages and his eyes were closed. When he re-opened them again, he regarded Buffy seriously.

The Slayer asked him fearfully, "Angel, what did you find?"

He shook his head, tears in his eyes, "Nothing."

"What do you mean nothing?"

"This is a spell to curse a demon with it's soul. Period."

"Wow," Willow was the first to speak. "That's great and ...wow."

Angel bobbed his head, "It is. But I still don't understand it."

Buffy's arms creeped around his waist as she glanced up to him "Why?"

"Well, we know that there was a clause in the initial curse. Someone must have taken it out."

"Someone - that could be Ms Calender." Willow looked back and forth between her friends.

Buffy assented, "I bet she did. She was miserable, having to spy on us, and for not telling us ... and Giles... the truth about her real reasons for coming to Sunnydale."

"So now you two can have all the moments of true happiness, that is ... wow. You guys could do it all the time, I mean, if you want. I'm not saying you will. But you could ...and this is great. It is great, isn't it?" Willow's face turned deep red when she finally realised what she had blurted out.

Angel smiled "It is." He looked down into Buffy's eyes, locked onto his in a look so full of love and trust it would have taken his breath away, if he had needed to breathe. He brushed his lips gently against hers and Willow had the feeling she was intruding on a most private situation, so she cleared her throat to remind them that she was still there.

Both lovers faced her and Buffy grinned "Sorry Will, it's just..."

"I understand. I really do. And ... congratulations. I'm so happy for the both of you. Isn't that just the perfect Christmas present?"

Buffy nodded, her smile was so bright, Willow thought she was gazing directly into the noonday sun.

"Angel, we've gotta get to my house now. You remember, Christmas dinner?"

He relaxed his embrace, but didn't release her.

"What about you, Wills? I know you're not celebrating Christmas, but how about a nice goose for dinner?", Buffy invited her friend.

Willow smiled broadly, closing the door behind Buffy and Angel as the threesome headed out into the night.

Part 3

Joyce Summers and Faith couldn't have been more astonished when Buffy entered the house with both Angel and Willow in tow. Taking note of the defiant look on her daughter's face, Joyce didn't dare say a word about the two unanticipated dinner guests.

Oblivious to Buffy's demeanor, Faith remarked "Nice company, B.

Buffy only smiled.

The dinner was quiet and peaceful. Joyce tried to ignore Angel's presence and even Faith realised the evening's atmosphere was not conducive for telling her adventurous stories. Accordingly, the brunette Slayer remained uncharacteristically quiet.

After dinner the small gathering adjourned to the Summers' living room. Since the group was all together, they had decided to exchange their presents that night.

Angel contentedly watched Buffy's eyes while she opened all the small packages with her name on the tags. That task completed, the blonde Slayer dived under the tree, with a wrapped package as her prize. "Angel, this is for you," Buffy held the bundle out to her lover.

The tall vampire's eyes widened in disbelief as Buffy nodded her head in affirmation. Carefully Angel unwrapped the present to discover a small booklet of poetry and prose.

Buffy had found the treasure some weeks ago in a tiny bookshop in Sunnydale.

When he looked up at his love, he had the beginnings of tears in his eyes. "Buffy, this is ... beautiful."

He opened the booklet and his unbeating heart was warmed to the core by Buffy's loopy handwriting, which decorated the first page, 'With all my love, Buffy', the petite blonde had penned.

Angel reached out, took Buffy's hand and kissed it tenderly.

This action didn't escape Joyce's fastidious gaze, the Slayer's mother cleared her throat, peered over at her daughter and inquired "Buffy, may I ask if I'm missing something here?"

Buffy risked a glimpse at Angel, then turned back to her mother and spoke quietly "I guess you did, Mom. You should know that ... Angel and I...we're back together."

Joyce was trying her hardest to swallow without choking.

Faith kept looking between Buffy and Angel, an incredulous expression on her face, "B. That's really ... unexpected." Then the brunette Slayer gave a slight shrug, "But it *is* your life. And Angel's really hot, so I don't blame you."

Buffy shot Faith a disparaging look and turned to her mother again "Mom?"

"Just proceessing, honey. Wait, so you two were dating behind my back, he took your virginity, turned evil and you sent him to Hell. Then somehow he came back, you forgave him for everything he did and now you both plan tolive the 'happily ever after' dream?"

Buffy bobbed her head happily "In a nutshell - yes."

"But darling..."

Buffy took her mother's hand "Mom, listen. I know you're not thrilled with the idea of Angel and me being together, but ....", her gaze ticked over to Angel, who gave her a small smile of encouragement, "Mom, I can't fight it... I love him," and when her mother's head shot up she quickly continued "Nothing you can say or do is gonna change the way I feel."

Mrs. Summers regarded her shoes carefully with a sigh. Then she glanced up to meet her daughter's glare and steeled herself to respond with a last-ditch argument, "You are still underage..."

"Don't mom. And besides my birthday is in a few weeks."

Joyce sighed again in defeat, "That's true and I guess I know how stubborn you can be. I see I have no other alternative than to accept your decision, whether I like it or not. So all right, if he makes you happy."

"Mrs. Summers," Angel began, "I know you and I didn't exactly start off on the best footing together, but maybe if we both make an effort to get to know each other, we could be friends instead of adversaries. For Buffy's sake."

Joyce nodded, "It's just that it's not every mother's dream that her daughter dates a vampire. But.. I promise I'll try and we could start with you calling me Joyce."

"Well I say this calls for champagne. I mean this sort of reunion. Sorry Mrs. S., but it just came out. Do you have any champagne in the house?"

Buffy shot Faith another look, turned back to her mother and hugged her tightly, "Thanks, mom. Thank you so much. You don't know how much this means to me and I promise you won't regret it."

"I'm so happy for you both," came Willow's voice from behind Faith. "You know Angel, you are the best medicine for her."

Angel half-smiled and nodded, "Thank you Willow, I want you to know that I appreciate this and everything you have done for me ... us."

He held his hand out to Buffy and she plopped down comfortably in his lap. Angel wrapped his arms around her waist and softly kissed the back of her neck. Everyone in the room could instantly feel the special bond between them."

Willow shifted in her chair, "Sorry to interrupt guys, but it's pretty late and this has been a big night. I'm a bit tired." The redhead got up from her seat and approached the Slayer's mother "Mrs. Summers, thank you for dinner, it was great. And for having me here."

Joyce smiled warmly at her daughter's best friend. "It was a pleasure, Willow."

Buffy arose from her perch on Angel's lap as well. "Willow wait, me and Angel will walk you home. I don't want you going home in the dark on your own."

"It's covered, B., Willow's house is on the way to Restfield. I'm just itchin' to patrol ... and get in some prime slayage before the night's over." With that, Faith stood up, took her jacket and she and Willow left together.

Angel got to his feet, "I think I'll be leaving now too, Buffy."

But Buffy took his arm and veered around toward her mother, "I know you're probably not gonna like this, mom, but I'm gonna leave with Angel."

"You'll be staying the night... with him?"

At Buffy's nod, Joyce took looked closely first at her daughter and then at the tall vampire Buffy loved. Suddenly she realized that she'd have to let her daughter go, up to a certain point, if she wanted to remain a part of Buffy's life, so she simply said "Okay, Buffy. I love you honey and please be careful." She kissed her daughter and squeezed Angel's arm. The dazzling smile she got in return from him took her breath away. He was really quite handsome, Joyce observed.

********

After Joyce had closed and locked the front door behind them, Angel looked at his love, "I can't believe you did this, Buffy. Are you sure?"

"Why wouldn't I be? Angel, you're the man I love. You are the one I want to spend my life with, so why not start today? That doesn't mean I'll never sleep at home again or that I'm moving in with you... although I like the thought, you know. Our home or something like that. Sounds nice, 'Buffy and Angel's home', you could give me a drawer and we would need some mirrors, not that you needed them but I would..."

He silenced her ramble with a tender kiss, "It's alright, Buffy, I got it."

"Sorry, babbling again."

Amid an easy silence, the soulmates resumed their stroll, once they arrived at the mansion, Angel opened the door for her. He left her in the entrance hall for just a moment while he went to his bedroom, returning with two small packages. Both were meticulously wrapped in silk paper. Taking Buffy's hand, he led her to the leather sofa. Once they were seated cozily, Angel handed the packages to her. She looked at him, astonished, "For me?"

"Yes, for you", he grinned. "You should open the larger one first."

Buffy quickly complied with his request. What she unwrapped took her breath away. It was a framed sketch of Willow, Giles, Cordelia, Xander, Oz and herself. The rendering was exquisitely done. Close to being overcome with emotion she softly murmured, "It's beautiful, but I didn't ... you ... I thought you said ... after Angelus ...you wouldn't draw anymore?"

"I just thought you'd like it. But you're right, I wasn't sure if this was ... appropriate, after all the presents HE left you. So if you don't want it, you don't have to keep it, I'll understand."

"No, no, it's wonderful, Angel, thank you."

The ensouled vampire gave her a small smile.

Buffy had gingerly placed the picture on the coffee table in front of her and begun to unwrap the second present, when Angel stopped her by taking her hand. "Buffy, I ... this wasn't meant to be a Christmas present - actually. I... Well... To be honest, I didn't know if I'd have the chance to give it to you ... ever again."

Her eyes sparkled, "Can I open it now?"

When he nodded, Buffy continued in her task. Nestled within the silken wrapping she found a small velvet box and when the petite blonde opened the hinge she gasped at what lay inside, "But where...?"

"Following my return from... Hell, after I got better I was cleaning house and I found it. I kept it ... hoping..."

In answer Buffy clasped her arms around his neck, "You are so sweet. Why don't you put it back where it belongs?"

She pulled back and held out her finger for Angel to place the Claddagh ring on it. She gave him a loving kiss, and whispered, "I truly belong to you, Angel. I love you - so very much. I was so convinced that fate was against us and we'd never have the possibility to be so close again."

Her true love drew her close with a passionate kiss, when he broke off so she could catch her breath, he spoke softly in reply, "I'm glad you came today and that we didn't act ... rationally."

Buffy grinned mischievously, "Speaking of rational ... I was just thinking this evening has been extremely rational so far."

Angel quirked one eyebrow, his mouth wide with a good-natured leer, and before she could say a word, he carried lifted her into his arms and carried her to the bedroom for a very irrational night.

******

When Buffy woke the next morning the first thing she felt was Angel's strong arms, one cradling her neck, and the other was slung across her waist. She snuggled closer to his comforting coolness and peered up at his face to discover him already awake.

"Good morning," she greeted lovingly.

"Good morning, Beloved."

"That sounds very old fashioned, but I love it."

Angel leaned down to place a kiss on her forehead, "And I love you."

"Hmmmm. Angel, could we just stay like this, let's say for a year or so? We could lock all the doors and windows and when someone knocks, we can pretend we're not home."

He chuckled at the idea, "It's not an unpleasant thought, my love, but I doubt they'd fall for it."

"Yeah, you're right, as always, Mr. Wisdom. But you know I'm gonna have to see Giles and Xander sometime today and I don't know how they'll react to us.... to there being an 'us' again."

Angel deliberated for a moment if he should tell her about his visit to Giles' but decided against it, instead he merely responded, "You have to tell Giles, Buffy."

"I know, he's my Watcher and ... a friend. And on the other hand I can give him the good news that Angelus is history, so that makes it all good news."

"Are you hungry yet?"

"Hmmm..." she raised her head and kissed him sweetly, but he pulled away before the kiss could deepen, with a grin. "I was thinking more of the empty stomach kind of hunger, you know, for food?"

"Now that you mention it - yes, actually I'm starving."

"Right, so let me take a quick shower and afterward I'll make you breakfast. Just relax until then."

He gave her a quick hiss on the cheek and disappeared in the direction of the bathroom.

Buffy laughed, she felt like she was in a dream. An amazingly pleasant dream. Finally it seemed she had been granted her heart's fondest desire, waking up in Angel's arms after a night of rapturous passion and tender loving.

The blonde Slayer had never felt happier in her entire life. Abruptly Giles' face appeared in her mind's eye and her brow furrowed at the picture. With a concentrated effort she shook her pretty head and decided that nothing would ruin her perfect morning. As her watcher's imagined countenance disappeared, she followed her lover into the shower, grinning from ear to ear with satisfaction.

..

. Part 4

After an overly long shower and a hearty breakfast, Buffy made her way to the library. She just knew Giles would be there, no matter what.

As per usual, the Watcher was sitting at his desk, his nose deeply buried within a dusty tome. The librarian started when he noticed Buffy standing in the doorframe to his office, surprised to see her before sundown during school vacation. "Buffy! Is something wrong? I thought you would be spending your vacation days with your mother."

"Everything is fine, Giles. I just have to talk to you. A... about Angel."

Buffy could feel the tension growing in her Watcher and she was momentarily shocked by the expression of anger and disgust in his eyes when he said tightly "Angel? Why? Has something happened to him?"

Buffy took a deep breath and plunged on, "I know you hate him, Giles. Because of Jenny. But ... that wasn't his fault. Angelus was the one in control of his body. You yourself told me that once, remember? The demon looks just like the person, speaks just like the person, shares the person's memories, but the actual person is gone."

"I remember, Buffy. Why are you bringing this up now?" The Brit's face was marked by barely concealed anger. And pain.

Buffy could feel the tears in her eyes, "Giles, I'm sorry for what happened to Jenny. I'm sorry I wasn't able to prevent Angelus from killing her. But those Gypsies are just as responsible for Jenny's death as Angelus. Do you place any blame on them? God, what a stupid curse!"

Her mentor shook his head in anger and arose from his chair. "Buffy, do you have a reason for dredging all of this up again? And why on earth are we talking about Angel, you said you would stay away from him." Giles' voice had steadily become louder.

Buffy could feel that anger was threatening to overtake her as well. She struggled to keep a natural speaking tone when she admitted, "Alright, I went to see him yesterday, okay? It all began when I ran into him downtown two days, literally. And he was acting so ... strangely, I can't explain it. He wasn't behaving normally - no, don't look at me like that. It wasn't the demon I saw, it was Angel, but ... he seemed so... yeah I guess that's it, almost scared. Giles, I've never seen him like that before. So I went to the mansion, not to *see him* see him, just to check on him and make find out if he was alright. I did.... and ....things got out of control..."

The petite blonde intended to continue, but was interrupted as Giles spun around, his face contorted in rage, "WHAT?", he spat. "I don't want to misunderstand your previous statement. Let me clarify, 'out of control', does that mean you slept with him?"

"Yes...", Buffy cast her eyes down to the floor.

When she raised her head to explain further, again the librarian cut her off, his voice discordant, "And you waited until today to tell me? Have you completely lost your head, Buffy? How could you let him do this to you? You promised to be careful - and to think that I rebuked Xander when he said you two couldn't keep your hands off of each other. I was such a bloody fool." He quickly turned to his private weapons cabinet, the key in his hand.

Now Buffy had just about *had* it. Why couldn't he remain calm and allow her to finish. It occurred to her that she'd never seen him so distraught. In order to get the librarian's attention she shouted, "WOULD YOU JUST LISTEN TO ME -- JUST FOR A MINUTE?"

Taken aback by the young girl's outburst, he whirled around and could do nothing but stare at her.

Buffy slogged on, her voice quieter, "It's not what you think. Please just listen to me. Okay... we *did* sleep together and, for the record - it was NOT Angel's idea, it was ... mine." She searched her Watcher's eyes for the disgust she was sure she'd find there, but his countenance remained impassive. The blonde continued, "I went to him, he told me to leave and I wouldn't, then he told me about the nightmares he'd had and ....things just happened. Afterwards Angel felt miserable, he forced me to promise I would stake him if he lost his soul. Did you hear that, he *made* me swear to kill him? Is that the kind of monster *you* believe he is? We waited ...and nothing happened. He didn't lose his soul and we didn't know why. So we went to see Willow to ask her to check out the curse that she used on him the second time. We found out there was no loophole in it. No true-happiness-clause. He can't ever lose his soul again. Ms. Calendar left the clause out of the translation she saved on the disk."

Her voice was nearly broken now, and tears streamed unchecked down her cheeks, "Why do you have to treat him like that? I know why Xander wants nothing to do with him, but I can ignore him 'cos he's just a jealous boy. But you?! You've always acted fairly and tried to understand me - even when I didn't deserve it.You, of all people, should recognize that it wasn't Angel's fault when the demon took over."

Giles' facial expression had changed during Buffy's speech from fury, to perplexed, then aloof and finally, to guilty. "I know, Buffy," he whispered, "Yet every time I see him, I can't seem to forget her face when I found her on my bed, neck broken ..."

Buffy went to him, taking his large hand into her own small one she said, "I'm sorry, I truly am. And Angel -- he'll blame himself for her death until the end of time. He doesn't show it to other people but I can see it, I see it in his eyes when we are close and he lets his guard down. Giles, he has such a beautiful soul. You know these Gypsies really did a good job, they wanted to punish the demon but they punished the soul instead. He always says that he's weak, but that's not true. Angel is the strongest person I have ever met. If I was in his shoes I would've gone nuts a century ago. Why is it that you can only remember the demon and the damage he caused? Did you forget that he once risked himself to save Jenny's life? From Eyghon who was - by the way - a demon summoned by you and your college buds."

Giles' head shot up, misery clearly visible in his eyes but Buffy didn't care at that point. Her only concern was in defending her lover from these horrible accusations. She forged on,

"You know, Giles, besides Willow and probably Oz, all of you were so wrapped up in your hatred against him. Hasn't he been punished enough? He spent hundreds of years in Hell - when I found him in the park after he came back he was like a wild animal. I've never, ever seen so much confusion and fear in a creature's eyes. He never talks about his time in Hell, but I'm sure what they did to him there is beyond our worst imagination. And even after having suffered all of that, his only concern was for me. He didn't want to be comforted, he offered his help to me," she turned on her heel to leave, but she wasn't entirely finished. "You are all determined to remain blind to his good qualities. Angel is a wonderful man, and none of you are able -- or willing to see it. Do you remember when we sat in your car after we destroyed The Judge? You said he had proven more than once that he really loved me. I can't believe you've forgotten all the times he put himself on the line to save our lifes."

The Chosen One was halfway out of the library doors when Giles suddenly found his voice, "Buffy, wait! Don't leave yet, please come back in, I've something to say to you."

She closed her eyes and halted momentarily. Then she took a deep breath and turned back to her mentor again. "So, what is it? More accusations? No thanks, I don't want to hear them. I've felt like a walking dead person these months. I stayed away from him, God only knows how much I hurt him and I did it for you. For you, Xander, Cordelia, and my Mom, because you all mistrusted him so much. None of you ever even realised that being away from him nearly drove me crazy. I love him so much, Giles, so much and he loves me. Waking up next to him this morning was the best experience I've ever had, it was everything I've ever dreamed of. I love him and no matter what you say now, nothing will change that and I won't give him up again."

He stepped closer to her and put his hand on her arm in a comforting gesture, "I'm quite ashamed of my behavior, Buffy. And I am sorry, you're right. We all forgot about Angel because of his demon." Giles looked down at her hand and slowly smiled, "You're wearing his ring again."

"Yeah, I am. Angel found it at the mansion a while ago and he gave it back to me yesterday. I'm proud to wear it, because it means I belong to the *best* person I have ever met."

The Watcher nodded his approval, "I feel as if you held a mirror up in front of me and the reflection was something I found quite distasteful. I've always thought of myself as your friend but in this instance, I didn't conduct myself like a friend. Buffy... I am truly sorry. So, if being with him makes you happy, then far be it from me to deny you your heart's fondest wish."

She looked at him, incredulously, "Do you really mean that?"

"I do. Did Angel mention that he came to my house two nights ago?"

The petite blonde's head shot up in alarm. "He did? No, he didn't tell me."

Giles let out a forced laugh, "It appears he wanted my help, although he seemed very confused at the time. I'm embarrassed to relate that I invited him in with a crossbow aimed at his heart. He told me about his dreams..."

"You did what?", Buffy's voice sounded shocked as she interjected.

"I was armed with a loaded crossbow, but he trusted me, he entered my home nevertheless. He said he desperately needed my help, then suddenly he seemed to see something that made him quite afraid. He just ...ran out of the open door without an explanation. But what I really wanted to say is that I was so wrapped up in my anger that I didn't see the tortured soul standing in front of me. Thinking back on it now, I'm shamefaced that I treated him so shabbily."

Buffy smiled through the tears she felt in her eyes. "Maybe you should tell him that sometime."

"I will. And again. I am really sorry."

"Giles, I believe you... and I accept your apology. I'm just glad Angel wasn't around to hear this entire discussion. He thinks so highly of you and he respects your opinion so much."

Giles wagged his head, he truly felt ashamed. His wrath had gotten the best of him, kept him from thinking rationally and he was a human being with a soul. He also comprehended for the first time how deeply his Slayer's love ran for the ensouled vampire. And it was so much stronger than he had originally thought possible. As her Watcher, he had borne witness to the hurt Angelus' deeds inflicted upon her, but he had never imagined such a profound love. After all, she wasn't even eighteen yet.

Buffy's voice wrenched him back from his musings.

"Giles! Earth to Giles, are you in there?"

He shook his head to clear it, "I beg your pardon, Buffy. What did you say?"

"I said, I'm gonna go now."

"Oh yes, of course. I want you to know ...I'm glad you came and that we ... talked."

She beamed at him, "Me too. See you." With this, she headed out the doors once again.

********

In Buffy's rush to exit the building, she nearly collided with Willow and Oz. Buffy grinned at her best friend and her best friend's boyfriend. "Hey, what are you guys doing here?"

"Hey Buffy, did you talk to Giles." Concern was written all over Willow's face.

"I did. It was ... hard. But we have an understanding now."

"Ooh," Willow said, "I'm so glad. As a matter of fact Oz and I were just coming to give you some moral support, just in case. I thought you might need it after your phone call this morning."

"Wills, that's so sweet of you, and thanks Oz."

The guitarist gave her his trademark half-smile. "No problem. Willow says you and Angel are back together, that's cool."

Buffy smiled at him happily, "You don't have a problem with this?"

"Me? Buffy, three days out of the month I'm a werewolf. People who live in glass houses, right? I'm not worried about it. Besides I like Angel."

"You do?"

He nodded, "Yeah, he's one of us good guys."

Willow regarded Buffy, "Hey, what are you and Angel doing tonight?"

"No idea, why?"

"What about the Bronze?"

"Is it open? Remember Willow, for the rest of us, it's Christmas."

"No, it's open," Oz informed her, "Actually, there's an after Christmas-party tonight and the Dingoes are playing."

"So you see, I'm going anyway but it would be nice to have the whole gang together," Willow added.

Buffy thought about it for a minute and then a wicked grin broke out over her face, "You know Wills, I just had a great idea. Have you told Xander about me and Angel?"

Willow shook her head in the negative, "No, I haven't spoken to either him or Cordy, why?"

"Because I think he deserves some payback for all the crap he's always throwing at Angel, what do you think?"

Oz grinned knowingly as Willow smiled mischievously. "Umm... well, yeah. He really does deserve it. I'll call him and Cordy to meet us at the Bronze, though I don't know if Cordy will want to come. Since their breakup she kinda prefers to stay away from him. How about I tell them to meet us at eight?"

The Chosen One agreed. With that, Oz and Willow walked off together. The Slayer made her way home to see her mom and was surprised when Joyce didn't mention Angel at all. Buffy silently hugged her for this. Then she called Faith to invite her to the Bronze as well. She wasn't fond of the brunette Slayer but somehow she felt that the other girl needed to be part of the group. Faith seemed pleased by the invitation and promised to come. Her sister Slayer also promised to patrol later on with her and Angel.

At seven Buffy left her home for the mansion. Upon her arrival she found Angel sitting in front of the fireplace, reading.

He looked up as she entered, "I've missed you, Beloved."

Buffy walked over to the couch, leaned down and kissed her love soundly, "I've missed you too. Have you had any more of those dreams? And why didn't you tell me you went to see Giles?"

He shook his head. "No, no more dreams. Seems they gave up," he grinned at her, "Maybe I'm too happy now to be haunted."

Buffy grinned back at him, "I like the sound of that."She crawled into his lap and leaned her head back onto his broad chest as she reported, "Giles told me about your visit the other night."

"What did he tell you?"

"Everything, I think. Including the part about the crossbow."

Angel peered down at her, "I didn't want to upset you, so I decided not to say anything about it."

"I love you, Angel," she sighed happily.

"I love you, Buffy," he echoed, his voice low and sexy.

The lovers kissed, tenderly at first, then more insistently.

When Angel began undoing the first button of her shirt, Buffy pulled back, panting "As much as I hate to say it, we can't....we're supposed to meet the gang tonight. I promised Willow we'd be at the Bronze at eight."

Angel gave her a hungry look and Buffy saw he was more than a bit disappointed. "It's okay, Buffy. A promise is a promise. When we get back later we could finish what we started," the vampire said with a good-natured leer.

Buffy grinned and got to her feet. Angel went to the bedroom to change his clothes. While he was changing Buffy explained about her intended surprise for Xander. Angel couldn't help but grin broadly, the boy was really going to get what he deserved.

...

Part 5

In keeping with their plan, Buffy entered the Bronze alone, her eyes swept the dimly lit interior and found the Scooby Gang sitting at a large table off to the side from the dancefloor. She smiled to herself as she made her way over to her friends.

When she got to the table, the blonde Slayer noticed that Faith was fidgeting in her seat, which wasn't uncommon - what *was* strange though, was the fact that the brunette Slayer's eyes never strayed from Xander, but remained closely trained on the dark haired boy. Peculiar, Buffy thought to herself. Cordelia sat in the back, avoiding Xander like the plague. The former May Queen was chattering to a distracted Willow, whose attention was focused on the Dingoes playing onstage.

Xander jumped up at Buffy's arrival. He gave her a firm hug, "Hey, Buff. Happy Christmas."

Buffy hugged him back, while exchanging a look with Willow. Knowing what Xander was in for tonight, the redhead was finding it difficult not to laugh out loud. Cordelia caught the exchange between the two, but she didn't understand it, she mentally shrugged and smiled at Buffy. Faith acknowledged her sister Slayer with a nod.

"Hey Buffy, how was your date last night?", Willow greeted.

Buffy was determined to pull her scheme off, so she willed herself to remain calm, took a deep breath and smiled at her best friend. "Great. And Willow, it was just soooo romantic."

At this, Willow nearly choked on her lemonade. Faith turned her head away, Willow hadn't filled her in, only told the brunette that she shouldn't spoil the fun.

Faith began to understand the plan when Xander asked in a voice two notches too loud, "Romantic? How? What?" Then he looked at Buffy, "Hey, Buffster, my bestest bud, is there something you want to tell us? A new man in your life, maybe?"

"What do you mean, Xand?", Buffy gave him a saccharine smile.

"Come on. Don't play coy with us. We're your friends, your amigos, you know you can trust us with your secret."

"Can I? Well, yes there is someone."

"Come on, do tell," Xander invited in an excited tone, "What's he look like?"

"He's tall, an extreme hottie..."

Xander frowned at this, "Older?"

"Yes, also older." She sighed happily, "But you know the older ones just have more experience, especially when it comes to ...", the petite blonde couldn't resist exchanging another a look with Willow, who was holding a hand over her mouth to keep her laughter from escaping. "Well, you know Xand, when it comes to..." The Chosen One's voice trailed off.

Xander blushed and stammered in surprised embarrassment, "Oh... Oh! I get it. I mean, I understand."

Buffy patted his arm, "Good for you."

Then she turned her head around, scoping out the room for someone. Xander followed her gaze, hoping to see the guy she was talking about. When she didn't seem to locate the one she was looking for, the blonde returned her gaze to her friends and Cordelia asked,"Do we know him? I mean, does he go to Sunnydale High? No, of course not, you said he was older. But do we know him anyhow?"

Buffy nodded in the affirmative, "Yeah. You've met him."

Xander's head spun around, "We know him? Who? Buffy, you're not dating that loser Scott again!?"

Buffy laughed and replied, "No Xander, I'm not seeing Scott."

He sighed in relief, Scott Hope had dumped his friend and Xander couldn't comprehend why any guy would break up with Buffy. Suddenly he realised a pair of arms were wrapping themselves around Buffy's waist and he looked up. The look of astonishment on the teenager's face was priceless. His eyes widened, his mouth hung open and his breath came in short gasps. Xander Harris was momentarily speechless.

Angel bowed his head and gave Buffy a soft kiss on the back of her neck. "Hello Beloved, I'm sorry I kept you waiting." The ensouled vampire glanced over at Xander, then back to his lover, "I saw you talking to him. Do I have any reason to be jealous?"

Buffy turned in her soulmate's embrace, "Of him? No way.". The Slayer added, "No one can compare to you."To prove her point, she stood on her toes and kissed him passionately.

Willow and Faith traded knowing looks. Cordelia simply nodded and said, "Somehow, I was expecting this."

Xander turned to his ex-girlfriend. "What do you mean, Cordy? Expecting this? Did you know?"

Willow and Faith bobbed their heads and Cordelia retorted, "No, but unlike you, Xander Harris, *I* can use my brain."

"Thanks Cordy, nice to know you're still the 'Queen of Charm'.", Xander rebutted.

The former May Queen grinned wickedly, "You're welcome."

Xander turned his gaze back to Buffy, who still looked as if she and Angel were connected at the lips. The dark haired boy coughed loudly, and when that failed to attract her attention, he tapped her shoulder lightly.

Angel broke the kiss and glowered down at him, "Is there something we can do for you?", then the vampire once again found Buffy's lips.

Xander, meanwhile was ready to burst. "Buffy, uhmmm..."

The Chosen One gave her lover a final kiss and faced Xander with a sugary smile, "You wanted to say something?"

"Have you lost your mind? I thought things were over and done with between you two?", Xander berated the Slayer.

"Like Cordelia stated before, Xander, as usual, your mind is working just a more slowly than the rest of ours.", Buffy responded, nodding in the cheerleader's direction. Cordelia couldn't help but let out a small giggle.

Xander looked around at his friends, hurt that they weren't as upset about the situation as he was. "Maybe all this seems very funny to the rest of you, but I'm not feeling too happy thinking of them both back together and getting pelvic. Next thing we know, his soul's gone and he's running aroung, trying to destroy the world again."

Buffy touched his arm gently, "Maybe it would make you feel better if I told you not to worry. It won't ... no, it can't *ever* happen again."

"How can you be sure?"

"Well, we checked the curse and Angel can't lose his soul again."

"WHAT?", Xander shouted.

"Calm down, Xand. Just believe me, when I tell you, both you and the world are safe." Her voice became a whisper as she leaned down and spoke into his ear, "You know, we *already* put it to the test. It really works."

Angel grinned behind her, tightening his grip around her waist and placing another tender kiss on her neck.

Xander contemplated the happy couple, and when the meaning of Buffy's words finally sunk in, he turned beet red.

At that moment Faith got up from her seat and took the brunette boy's hand in hers,"Xander, let's dance before this gets any *more* embarrassing for you." The brunette Slayer strode onto the dance floor with Xander in tow. He followed the shapely girl as in trance.

Buffy faced Willow and Cordelia and the three girls exploded into peals of laughter. Angel grinned widely and seated himself on the sofa opposite to Willow. Buffy curled into his lap like a contented kitten.

Cordelia was the first to find her voice again, "Oops, Buffy, your bad. No camera. The look on Xander's face was classic. I really enjoyed it, though I should be angry with you for not clueing me in ahead of time."

"Sorry Cordy," she gazed into Angel's eyes, "I was kinda distracted."

Cordelia rolled her eyes, "Don't *tell* me. I have enough imagination."

Buffy grinned and faced Angel, "Oh, I don't know 'bout that."

"Someone, please save me," Cordelia begged the group jokingly.

After that, the evening ran its course without incident. Each member of the Scooby Gang made his or her way to the dance floor at some point during the night. Even the ensouled vampire was persuaded by Buffy to dance one slow song with her. Swaying with him on the dance floor she complimented him, "Hey Fred Astaire, you're quite the good dancer, how come you never told me?"

He smiled down at his love, "I can dance, but dancing always seemed so..."

"Lighthearted?", she finished for him.

Angel stared at her. It never ceased to amaze him how Buffy seemed able to look directly into his soul. He smiled again and lowered his lips to softly brush hers. He was interrupted from his task by a hand on his shoulder, "Hey DeadBoy, no smoochies allowed, there are underaged kids here." Xander grinned broadly and danced away with Faith nestled in his arms.

Buffy gaped at Angel, "Is it just me or do you get a weird feeling watching the two of them together?"

Gazing at Faith Angel aswered, "They do make an unlikely pair. I don't think Xander's her usual type."

"Me neither. But then he dated "Queen C" herself - and who could've seen that one coming?"

"Your point, Buffy." Then the handsome vampire's tone became low and smooth as he inquired "How much longer do you want to stay here?"

The Chosen One caught the mischievous gleam in her lover's eyes, "Oh I don't know, what else did you have in mind?"

"Well...(kiss)... I'd rather ... (kiss) ... show you."

"Hmmmm, yeah. We could leave right now. Mom knows I'm staying with you again tonight, she won't worry."

"I can't believe she allowed you to stay two nights in a row."

Buffy beamed, "Me either, but I'm not gonna look a pony present in the mouth."

Angel chuckled, "That's 'gift horse', Buffy." He reached for her hand and led them toward the front exit of the Bronze. Buffy waved good-bye to her friends as she passed them on her way out.

The lovers strolled hand in hand back to Crawford Street. So caught up were they in their joy at finally being together, without concern for Angel's soul, the happy couple failed to observe the shadow following closely on their heels. When they closed the door of the mansion behind them, a sinister voice whispered, "Enjoy your happiness, Slayer, it won't last for long."

...

Part 6

When Faith and Xander returned from the dance floor, they instantly realised that Buffy and Angel were missing from the table.

Willow noticed the direction of their gazes and smiled. "Looking for the lovebirds? They left a few minutes ago", she sighed happily.

"They were *supposed* to patrol with me," Faith shrugged, "I guess that means I'll be making the cemetery rounds by my lonesome."

"I could go with you," Xander hastily offered.

"No offense, but a Slayer's job is easier without people to take care of." With this the slim brunette turned and left the club.

Xander looked over where Willow and Cordelia stood. He moaned, "Well, tonight doesn't seem to be my night. I'm better off going home, diving under my sheets and pretending I'm dead."

With the laughter of the girls behind him, he headed home.

********

Faith had already checked three graveyards. She enjoyed slaying, the feeling of killing a vampire made her body sing. It made her feel invincible, powerful. She loved the expression in the vampires' eyes when she plunged her stakes into their hearts, an expression of both fear and horror. She often asked herself what was wrong with her, why she was enjoying this so much. Buffy liked slaying too, but the blonde girl was different. She didn't seem to enjoy it with the same thrill that her sister Slayer did. Although Faith knew that Buffy could never live without it. It was part of their lives, maybe part of their personality. "I am the Slayer", Buffy had once told to her - as if somehow she was defining herself through her calling. She and Buffy had never talked about the moment they were Called. Faith had been scared, all the way down into her marrow. At the time, all she had wanted to do was to run away, but then she had learned about the power Slaying gave to her. Suddenly, she wasn't the victim anymore, she was the hunter. It felt good, she had been the victim for far too long. The brunette envied Buffy her normal life, though she would never admit it to anyone.

Buffy, the 'Chosen One', she thought. Not alone, like her. Buffy had a loving mother, friends, Giles, and last but not least, Angel. 'Angel' she thought. Faith had been disgusted to hear that her sister Slayer loved a vampire. It was just beyond her imagination. But then she had seen him, he was so hot, so sexy and *so* not at all interested in her. It seemed that nobody existed to him besides Buffy. Faith felt that the ensouled vampire had never even really looked at her, although she'd never had problems attracting guys before. Xander had fallen for her, she could tell, she'd had her fair quota of men. But Angel seemed uninterested. Her thoughts were interrupted when a vampire suddenly jumped out from behind a bush. Faith looked him over with a big smile, "Oh, tonight's my lucky night."

He approached her, growling, "You will die, girl."

"Well, maybe but I don't think so. Have you ever heard of a Slayer?" With this she punched him in the stomach and with her next movement she staked him.

She grinned, "Too easy."

"Maybe not this time around, Slayer."

The brunette whirled around to find a very beautiful female vampire. Something felt different about her, but Faith couldn't put her finger on it. She briefly wished Buffy were here with her 'spider senses' - the blonde Slayer would probably know what the difference was. The vampire came near. Faith kicked and landed a hard punch at her chin, but the vampire only laughed and kicked her back. This went on for a while. Both females trading blows. Faith was nearly out of breath and felt her strength fading. This vampire was strong, she had never come up against any vamp this powerful. Faith felt fear in her heart, and for the first time in her life as a Slayer, Faith ran away from a fight.

********

Angel woke up the next morning to the sound of someone knocking on the mansion door. He opened one eye and saw Buffy was still asleep next to him. Carefully rolling himself out of the bed, trying not to wake Buffy, he pulled his sweatpants on and padded barefoot to answer the door. Prudently standing a few feet back from the door, in the safety of the shadows, he called out, "The door is unlocked."

Slowly the door opened and the redheaded witch peeked around the corner. Noticing Angel she greeted him quickly in a soft voice, "Oh... Angel. Good morning. I'm really very sorry to disturb you, but..."

He gave her an encouraging smile, "It's okay, Willow. What's the problem?"

She shyly returned his smile and answered, "Well, actually Giles phoned me early this morning because Faith was attacked last night by a very powerful vampire."

"Vampires are usually very powerful."

"I know, I know, but this one seems to have been different. Giles has been going through his books all night. When he found nothing, he called me to check the 'net. Since I couldn't find any information either, I thought of asking you."

He nodded understandingly and motioned her to take a seat on the sofa. "Just give me a minute, Willow. I'm going to put a shirt on. I'll be right back."

Stepping back into his bedroom, he saw Buffy rubbing her eyes. "Hey, did I hear voices? Did someone come to visit us?"

'Us', she said, and Angel smiled, that sounded so right. "Yes, Willow's here. It seems, Faith was attacked last night. Willow's hoping I can help her with some information on the vampire."

Buffy nodded. "Alright. Vampire. Business. Okay, I'd better get up, too."

*******

Willow's eyes followed Angel as he disappeared into the bedroom. He appeared different in some way. The wicca had already noticed this yesterday. There was still that well-known look of guilt that always surrounded his features, but there was something else, was it peace? She looked around the mansion, all the windows were hung with heavy drapes to keep the sun outside, but the artificial lights made the interior bright and friendly. Willow had been always afraid of the mansion, when she was a child, she used to come up here with her friends, they would tell stories about ghosts and haunted souls. Later she had laughed about these childish ideas - until - yes, until Buffy came to town and showed them everything they had ever feared was real. A noise brought her back to the present as Buffy and Angel walked around the corner. "'Morning, Wills. Now, what was it about this vampire that spooked Faith?"

"And a 'Good Morning' to you too. Like I told Angel, some very powerful vampire attacked Faith last night. She's fine, but only 'cause she ran away from it as fast as she could. Giles told me she was really freaked, and she stayed at his apartment all night, that should tell you how wigged she was."

Buffy nodded. Angel settled himself down opposite Willow and Buffy curled into his lap, the Slayer's eyes still sleepy, she rested her blonde head on his chest and yawned.

Willow smiled, it just looked so right, seeing them together like that. Then she forced herself back to the reason for her social call. "Neither Giles nor I found anything in any record or web site. So I decided to try Angel. Faith said the vampire was female, she was very beautiful in her human form, long red hair, very pale complexion, well obviously - oh, and she had a tattoo of a full moon on her right wrist."

Buffy nearly fell from the sofa when Angel stood up with a start, walked over to the fireplace and whispered, "It's just not possible."

Buffy and Willow stared at him, both could feel the tension in his body when he finally turned around, his face an expressionless mask when he asked, "Willow, are you absolutely sure about that tattoo?"

"Of course, why?"

He took two unnecessary breaths and Buffy observed that his hands were shaking, "Because the vampire you're talking about should be dead."

"Dead... nope. According to Faith, definitely not dead." Willow still didn't understand what Angel meant.

He came back to the sofa, sat beside Buffy, took her hand and squeezed it tightly. "Her name was ... is Alanna. She was a girl living in Dublin, many years ago. I..." he glanced away from Buffy, to the floor, his hand wavering even more. "She was another obsession of mine... of HIS ... after Drusilla. I made her a vampire. After I was cursed with my soul, I killed her, well ...I thought I did." The vampire only looked at Willow, avoiding Buffy's gaze, too afraid of the disgust he might find in her eyes.

Willow coughed slightly and inquired, "How did... what did you do to her?"

"She ... I burned down the building where she and some of her minions were staying."

"Why?"

"Because she killed a Slayer."

*******

Willow had gone to report the information Angel had given her to Giles.

Buffy sat, motionless, on the sofa. Angel was taking a shower. He had shown Willow out and then walked away without saying a word. Buffy remembered he had avoided looking her in the eyes the entire time he was explaining about Alanna. 'Alanna, another one of Angelus' obsessions', she thought. It must be horrible to live with the crimes of a demon who used your body to commit them. She turned when she heard Angel coming into the room again. His hair was still wet.

When he realised Buffy was looking at him, he again glanced down to the floor, and was turning back toward the kitchen when he felt her hand on his arm.

"Hey," she said softly. He didn't move, so Buffy just walked around him, searching for his eyes. It nearly broke her heart to see the deep rooted pain and guilt in his dark orbs. "Angel. Please don't. It wasn't you. It was HIM."

He stared at his lover, "What?"

"Don't blame yourself. I don't. It wasn't your fault."

"I know. I just thought ... I thought..."

She knew instantly, "You're not going to lose me, Angel. I love you, you know that. I love you and I can tell the difference between you and HIM."

His trademark half smile lit his face. "I don't know what I've done to earn your love."

Buffy smiled back and stood on her toes to kiss him. Then she looked deeply into his chocolate-brown eyes, "I love you. And you will never know how greatful I am that we met. You're my other half, without you I feel incomplete. Do you know how rare it is to find what we have, this sort of real love?"

"You sound very wise."

"Hmm...I wonder if some of Giles is rubbing off on me. It's his job to be wise. I'm the Slayer, I absorb of the wise, then fight the baddies with my newfound knowledge."

Angel kissed her on her forehead but became serious again. "Buffy, we have to find out why Alanna is here. She was a very powerful vampire from the beginning. When I made her she was madly passionate about me, almost to the point of obsessive. It was only a month after I turned her that I was cursed, and I distanced myself from all of them. She was furious at first, but subsequently lost interest in tracking me down."

Buffy took Angel's hand and walked him back to the sofa to sit down, again she placed herself comfortably on his lap and looked straight into his eyes. "You remember when I told you that I loved you, but I didn't know if I could trust you? I love you with all my heart, Angel, and I trust you with my life." She smiled at the surprised look on his face.

Angel kissed her lips gently, "Even after..."

"Yes, even after all that. I've seen how painful it is for you to be faced with the memories of the acts the demon did, you still feel responsible, although you're not. And I am completely aware that you think Alanna might have come to Sunnydale for revenge on you and I also know you're afraid I might have to face her, because she could be jealous."

"You seem to be a lot wiser than I thought," Angel smiled but again spoke seriously, "We really have to find out her reason for coming to the Hellmouth. She may well have come for me but, since she's a vampire, I really doubt I'm her only reason. Alanna is very strong, Buffy. She previously killed a Slayer and then drank her blood - this means she has even more power now than she had before."

Buffy shivered just a little bit, "More power than usual. How *much* more do you think she is?"

"Well. When I met her again, ten years ago, I wasn't able to fight her. I mean I could've fought her, but I wouldn't have stood a chance of winning. That's why I burnt down the building. Buffy, I really thought she was dead."

"No worries. We'll talk to Giles tonight. He didn't find anything about her before, but now he has a name."

Angel nodded and asked her, "Hungry?"

"Yes."

"Would you like bacon, eggs and pancakes for breakfast?"

"You're spoiling me."

He grinned, "I know. But I like to do that."

"You're so sweet."

"I'll take that as a 'yes'. Stay here, I'll be back in 15 minutes."

While Angel was cooking her breakfast in the kitchen, the phone rang. Buffy answered it and was astonished to hear her mother's voice. "Mom?"

"Hi honey. How are you?"

"I'm fine Mom, never better. Why are you calling?"

"I just wanted to tell you that I'm going away again for a few days and I won't be back until January."

"So you won't be here for 'New Year's'?"

"No honey, I'm sorry."

"It's okay. I already planned to spend that night with Angel. Where are you going?"

"A friend - he owns an art gallery in Los Angeles - invited me to Hawaii. Me and some other friends," she added quickly.

"Hawaii?"

"Yes. I'm really looking forward to it."

"I'll bet. Have a wonderful time. And 'Happy New Year', Mom. Bye."

"Bye, sweetie."

Buffy was quiet when Angel returned with a large plate and a cup of coffee.

He couldn't help but see her happy expression, "What's that huge smile for?"

She beamed at him, "Well, it means your girlfriend is stuck with you." When she saw his questioning look, she clarified, "Mom's leaving for Hawaii today, she'll be staying there over 'New Years' and you know how much I hate staying home on my own..."

He grinned back, "Maybe I should get you that drawer and a mirror soon?"

As Buffy took her fork and tried the bacon, she smiled."Hmmmm... yes, maybe you should."

...

Part 7

Buffy could feel the tension that had built up in Angel the nearer they came to the library. She took his hand and squeezed it gently to assure him of her support. He attempted a half smile, but wasn't successful. Giles had every right to hate him, he himself wouldn't forgive anyone for killing Buffy. In front of the school Angel stopped in his tracks.

Buffy looked at him, smiling understandigly, "Hey, I know this is hard for you, Angel. But believe me, Giles has changed his opinion of you, I swear." She embraced him tightly and held him for what seemed like hours to comfort him. "I'm right by your side. I promise you it will be alright."

He nodded and they both walked to the library. As they came around the last corner, they found Willow standing there.

"Angel. Buffy. Good to see you."

Angel smiled at her, Willow then looked at Buffy: "Giles is in full research mode now. When I told him the name of the vampire, he nearly jumped into his books. So, let's go in, they must be waiting for us." She turned and the lovers followed her into the library.

Oz nodded at the couple while Cordelia gave them a little smile as she busied herself filing her nails.

Xander's head came up as he heard them enter. "Hey look, DeadBoy's here. Hi Buff."

Angel glared at him but remained silent. He could feel Buffy clasping his hand again when Giles came out of his office. "Ah Buffy, Angel, you're here. We need all the help we can get. Angel, Willow related that you know the vampire who attacked Faith."

Angel nodded, "I ... I ..."

Buffy could feel his muscles tightening with tension again and continued for him, "Angel is her sire."

Giles nodded. "Yes, Willow's already apprised us of that fact. She also told me you believed her dead."

"That's right. She killed a Slayer. I... had turned her only a few weeks before I was cursed by the gypsies. After I regained my soul, I separated myself from my kind. She was furious in the beginning, but seemed to calm down later. Then she sired a vampire who had been an attractive English Dandy called James Cameron - he was her paramour for quite some time. He wasn't with her when ... well, when I *thought* I killed her, though."

"Man, you've got a colourful past, DeadBoy."

"Xander, would you please just shut up." Everyone looked at Giles, no one had expected such an outburst from him. He nodded at Buffy and Angel in apology then turned back to Xander. "We are here because we're going to face an extremely dangerous vampire, as such, we need to concentrate and Angel could be very helpful with our research."

Angel glanced over at Buffy and then back to Giles. "It... could ... be. She could maybe..."

"Want to come for you." It was more a statement than a question from Giles. "Hmm... that very well could be the case, but with my experience in vampires, I seriously doubt that would be the only reason. Possibly a side effect."

Buffy smiled at her mentor, "Angel said that before." Tugging lightly on Angel's hand, she brought him to a chair, gently forced him to sit down, then curled herself into his lap. She quietly laughed when she saw Xander shaking his head in disgust.

Giles continued, "Since you tried to kill her, I shouldn't think she'd intend to meet you for amorous reasons."

Angel nodded in agreeance, "If anything at all, she'd be out looking for revenge."

At the same moment, the library doors swung open to reveal the brunette Slayer. "Hey, a meeting. I suppose my invitation got lost in the mail." Faith looked around and when she saw Angel she said, "Well, well, one Christmas evening and the prodigal son is back in the arms of the family."

Xander whispered to Buffy, "Is she drunk?"

Giles looked wearily at the younger Slayer, "I tried to telephone you this afternoon, Faith, but you were not in and it appears you don't have an answering machine."

"Sure, whatever you say."

Buffy rose from the comfort of Angel's lap and strode over to her sister Slayer. She tried to grab her arm, but Faith stepped back. "Faith, don't be like that. If Giles says he tried to give you a call it's the truth. You know he would never lie."

"It's okay, B. I'm fine with it. Besides, I was never part of that loser club you call the 'Scooby Gang'."

"Why are you acting like this, Faith? I thought we really made some progress at Christmas."

Faith laughed bitterly, "Yeah, sure. You invite the poor, lonely girl for one nice evening at your humble little abode. I bet it wasn't even your idea."

Buffy sighed. "I'm sorry you feel that way, Faith."

Faith's voice rose, "You wanna know what I think? I think that a murderous vampire is given more trust by you people than a Slayer who risks her life every night. Don't worry, I got the message. Loud and clear."

She spun around and stormed out of the library. Buffy wanted to follow her, but felt a hand holding her back.

It was Angel's. "No, Buffy. Let her go. She's too upset to reason with right now."

Giles joined in, "He's right, Buffy. She needs to calm down before anyone can get through to her. Although, for the life of me, I'm quite perplexed by her actions."

"She feels like she can't trust anyone, Giles. I know exactly what's going on in her mind," Angel spoke in a calm tone.

Giles looked at him in astonishment and Buffy grasped his hand in hers, then beseeched him, "Don't you trust me?"

"I do. That's not what I meant, Buffy. I know how she feels because I was in the same situation once. I didn't trust anyone and certainly not myself. Faith misses being loved, she's missed it for far too long a time, so she's closed herself off." He smiled down at his love, "If it wasn't for you, I might behave similarly to her."

"That is so sweet," Buffy stood on her toes and kissed him.

"Uuuuummm ... isn't there some research that needs to be done here?" Willow looked at Buffy and the blonde Slayer grinned.

"Sorry, I was ... ummm, research. Right." The Chosen One blushed.

The previous occupants of the library returned to their books.

Buffy and Angel settled into adjacent chairs at the table, each selected a tome and began to read.

Giles smiled slightly seeing Angel and Buffy secretly holding hands under the table. They seemed to need some sort of physical contact all the time. He also noticed that Angel looked up from time to time and rested his eyes lovingly on Buffy. No, that was not the monster that had viciously murdered Jenny and tortured him. He only prayed that Angel would be able to keep his demon in control, the demon that was still a part of him. He had the feeling that Buffy would shatter if she ever had to face Angelus again.

Suddenly Xander jumped up, "Hey guys, I think I found something."

Everyone looked at him expectantly and he announced, "This book gives a date. The Night of Hecomb."

Giles closed his eyes and then exclaimed, "Of course, it must have slipped my mind. Dammit- the Night of Hecomb!"

Buffy gently touched his arm, "Giles?"

"I'm sorry, Buffy. This is a sacred day for vampires. Hecomb was a powerful master vampire about over 1,000 years ago. If I remember correctly, he was killed on New Year's Eve exactly 1,000 years ago."

"So this is an anniversary? I mean... it is, isn't it?"

"That is correct, Willow." Giles took his glasses off, removed a cloth from his trouser pocket and wiped them in his trademark way.

"Now, G-man, exactly what do you think is going to happen on New Year's Eve?"

"My first guess would be that Alanna is here mainly for the anniversary date. I would venture to guess further that there will be a great many vampires all over town as well. Only God knows what is going to happen then."

"But...", Willow looked concerned.

Angel inquired, "But what?"

"I just. What about the Hellmouth. Don't you think they would try..."

"To open it? Quite possibly," Giles continued Willow's sentence.

"Thanks, this is great news. But then - I've stopped the Hellmouth from opening before and I can do it again. Right?" Buffy tried to smile, although the prospect of the Hellmouth reopening made her feel physically ill.

"Buffy, it's not that simple..."

"I know, Angel. But thinking negatively isn't going to help either, right?"

He only nodded then he looked at Giles. "I have a really bad feeling about this."

Giles head shot up, "Whatever do you mean?"

"Well, the last time the Hellmouth was about to be opened the master rose. What if Alanna has ambitions to become the new master?"

Giles got up from his seat and paced around the library obviously deep in thought, then his gaze returned to Angel. "That's it, Angel. Alanna's goal is to be the new master, of course. Why didn't I see this earlier? That makes perfect sense. That would also explain why she tried to challenge Faith, she was curious as to the strength of the Slayer."

"Very possible. But then Faith is not as well trained or as strong as Buffy." Angel looked proudly at the blonde Slayer, who reached over and planted a sweet kiss on his lips.

"Thank you, honey." Buffy beamed at her love.

"You're welcome. But back to the subject. If this is true, we have to get hold of Faith. Alanna is very strong and we're going to need all the help we can get. I can't even imagine how she will attempt to reopen the Hellmouth. But I'm certain that magic is also part of her plan."

Once the vampire voiced the word 'magic', Willow came to full attention. "Magic? Giles, I could do a spell ... well, maybe."

Giles nodded apologetically at the redheaded witch."Thank you Willow, but I fear that this is quite out of your league. If this Alanna is using magic, she no doubt will have a very powerful witch or wizard to assist her."

"I agree," Angel began, then he seemed to think on it and continued, "She... hold on, Giles. I remember her traveling with a wizard for a short while. He was close to her ... well as close as one can get to a vampire. Damn, I don't ... Hillard ... that's the name, the name of the wizard was Hillard."

"Hillard. I'm familiar with the name. He is not only very powerful, but extremely evil as well." Giles seemed seriously perturbed.

"Yeah, I know. But I would hazard a guess that she hired him for just that reason. Giles, he is dangerous and truly evil, because besides being a wizard he's also a vampire."

"Are you sure, Angel?"

"Oh absolutely. Spike is his sire. I was present ... when, well when it happened, when he rose."

"This is bad, damnit, this is very bad," Giles muttered with his chin pointed to his chest. He entered his office and pulled the Codex down from one of the bookshelves.

********

"Adrian, come to me."

The summoned vampire stood up from his chair and glided over to the beautiful woman laying prone on a large bed. "What is your wish, master?"

"You are not to call me 'master', I am your mistress." She corrected him while indicating the place next to her side of the bed where a young black haired man yawned. The woman smiled viciously, "*This* is your master."

"Very well, mistress," Adrian answered.

"Go out, take some of the minions and bring me the Slayer."

"Very well."

"And Adrian, find out anything you can about Angelus."

Fear flickered in the eyes of the vampire. "Angelus?"

"Are you deaf? Yes, Angelus. He is in Sunnydale, my spies told me that. I want to know where he lives and what he is up to at the moment. This is important. It is imperative that we have this information tonight."

Adrian nodded and left, feeling uncomfortable with the idea of facing Angelus. The 'Scourge of Europe' was one of the most dangerous vampires he had ever heard of.

Alanna turned to face the young man who laid beside her in the bed, he was fully awake now. "Now, Hillard, tell me again what you will do on the Night of Hecomb."

********

The gang was still inside the library when they heard a loud noise from outside the doors. They were opened swiftly and about 10 vampires entered. Everyone jumped up, Angel and Buffy positioned themselves in front, the others reaching for crosses, holy water and stakes.

A young vampire who seemed to be the leader of the group approached Angel and Buffy. "Where is the Slayer?"

Buffy peered at Angel. He gave her a short glance and addressed the young vampire, "What do you want?"

"We are looking for the Slayer. If you tell us her whereabouts, we will not harm you - tonight."

"Would you be insulted if I didn't believe you?" Angel's eyes pierced the young vampire's.

The young vampire stared at Angel. The vamp sensed something strange about this tall, dark-haired man he faced. His aura was not that of a human, yet he could sense no evil in him. Since the younger vamp couldn't figure out what he was, he simply inquired, "Who are you?"

"Who I am is certainly none of your business," Angel shot back.

The vampire stepped forward. "Our task is to find the Slayer, now where is she?"

Buffy was about to speak but was silenced by a nearly imperceptible shake of Angel's head. The ensouled vampire spoke again, "Why are you looking for her?"

"That is none of *your* business now. Just tell us and we will leave."

"I don't know where she is. She left about an hour ago.", Angel answered semi-truthfully.

To everyone's surprise, the young vampire only nodded and his group left the library quietly.

Buffy looked at Angel, "Now *that* was weird."

He nodded, "Yes. They were obviously looking for Faith and didn't seem to know anything about you."

"They didn't know about you, either."

"Yeah, they must be very new. And they must also be very young vampires."

Giles nodded in agreement. "Certainly. I cannot imagine an older vampire not recognizing Angelus."

"Well aren't you the famous one, Deadboy?"

Angel only glared at Xander then he spoke, "I would bet they were Alanna's minions. She only met up with Faith yesterday, so she would probably assume Faith is *the* Slayer. Although, I'm amazed she hasn't done her research or been informed that there are *two* Slayers living on the Hellmouth."

Buffy took Angel's hand, "There's only one problem, now Angel. We have to find Faith. Fast."

...

Part 8

When Faith reached her apartment, she just threw her stakes into a corner, she was so angry. No to clarify, she was *extremely* pissed off. Once again, the Scooby Gang had held a meeting without her. They stll didn't trust her, not at all. They hadn't trusted her with the news about Angel's return some time ago either. She had tried her best, she had been as good as she knew how to be, but she knew they didn't like her. The brunette Slayer realized that there was no place for her within their tightly-knit little group.

Willow's eyes were full of mistrust, Cordelia treated her as if she was shit, well that might not count as anything special because she treated almost everyone that way. Xander didn't count, he behaved like an overgrown child on hormonal overload and Giles always made her feel like she was second best.

And Buffy ... the almighty Buffy. Faith thought that their Calling would create an immediate connection between them, but Buffy couldn't seem to trust her either. Everyone loved Buffy, everyone thought Buffy was great, Buffy was special, Buffy was loving. Buffy. Buffy. Buffy. She could harbor a murderous vampire and her friends and Watcher would forgive her. Sure, they were shouting at her but even Xander had forgiven her and now they all had forgiven Angel as well.

Angel, god she had the hots for him. And now that he was able to have sex again - this turn of events was promising. Of course, right now he only had eyes for his wonderful Buffy... but maybe she could change that, somehow. Buffy. Faith had the urgent need to pummel someone. Instead she grabbed a glass from the table and hurled it into the wall. As she idly gazed at the shards on the floor, there was a knock at her door. Faith couldn't believe her eyes when she opened the it. "What do *you* want? I thought I made myself clear," her voice dripped with ire.

On the other side of the door stood Buffy and Angel. Buffy said urgently, "There is something we have to talk about, Faith. It can't wait until tomorrow."

Faith looked at them then she shrugged her shoulders, "Sure, come in."

The couple entered her room and without hesitation Angel began, "Faith, we had a surprise visit tonight. Ten vampires came to the library. They were obviously searching for you."

Her eyes went wide, "For me? Why would vampires be looking for me?"

Angel sighed and told her the whole story. When he had finished Faith frowned, "So they think *I'm* the Slayer, hm? No problem. I'll just go and kick some ass."

"Faith, it's not that simple. Alanna is very strong. We need to work together - all of us." Buffy tried to make the situation clear to her.

Faith pointed in Angel's direction, "I guess that means him, too?"

"Of course it means him, too. Why?"

"Well, we *are* going against his 'kind'. How can you be sure he won't join the other side at a certain point?"

Buffy glanced over at Angel, his eyes were direct toward the window in a fixed stare and his face showed no emotion. She turned back to Faith. "I'm sure," she replied matter-of-factly. "What I want to know, is if you are willing to work with us as part of a team. That means taking orders, Faith."

"I'm a Slayer, that's means I'm in. But I'll only take orders from Giles, not from you and certainly not from ... HIM."

Buffy nodded her acceptance. "I don't have a problem with that. Here are the rules: Don't go outside at night on your own. We'll meet at the library every day at five in the afternoon. And we only patrol together."

"Sure, fine by me. Is that all, because I am kinda tired now."

"Good night, Faith," said Buffy. Angel had already left the room, so she joined her lover outside.

Faith stood at the window and watched them leave. When they were out of sight she shrugged and threw herself on the bed.

********

Buffy took Angel's hand gently as they walked away from Faith's room. "I'm sorry."

He looked at her wonderingly, "Sorry? Why?"

"Faith. I'm sorry for what she said."

He halted and looked directly into her eyes. "She has no reason to trust me, Buffy. She only knows me through stories, most of them - I'm sure - were told by Xander, and there's certainly no love lost between us."

She shook her head, "No, she saw you protecting the Glove of Mhynegon, and you nearly died there when you saved Willow's life."

Angel kissed her softly on her forehead. "It's not important if she trusts me. It's not that I care whether she does or not."

Buffy smiled at him, "I'm glad you're not going on that whole guilt-trip ride again, just because of what she said."

He shook his head slowly. "No. Faith is hurting, Buffy. And so she lashes out at everyone. And she envies you."

"Me?"

"She does. Be careful around her. She's very jealous. It's not only love that makes people do the whacky."

Buffy stepped on her toes to kiss him, then she grinned, "Now, the night is still young. Can we forget about Faith? I mean we warned her and all. Can we just try to forget about her until tomorrow afternoon?"

Angel returned her sweet kiss. "That's fine with me. But if we're not going to be talking about Faith, what could we possibly do to pass the time...." He trailed off, his eyes becoming incredibly dark.

Buffy chuckled at his implication, "We should get back to the mansion... and I might be able to come up with a few ideas."

Angel couldn't resist the promise in her voice. He kissed her again, and they both made their way to Crawford Street as quickly as they could.

.....

Part 9

Angel was stretched out on the bed, head turned to his left where Buffy was fast asleep beside him. He hadn't been able to sleep after they had made love. His mind wouldn't let him, he was worried about Faith.

Not unsurprisingly, the first time he met the brunette Slayer she had tried to stake him. In his weakened condition, she very nearly succeeded, thankfully Buffy arrived on the scene in time to save his unlife.

Faith was still a young girl in age, but her eyes held the numerous scars from the life she had led to date. It certainly must've been a hard life, if it had convinced her that the only one she could trust was herself. Angel also felt that the girl deeply believed she was owed a better life. He couldn't blame her for this, because nobody deserved the suffering she had most likely endured in her short life. She seemed to envy people who had had a better life and, in Faith's mind that must be nearly everyone alive.

But what really scared Angel was how much the secondary Slayer envied Buffy - even though Buffy had certainly borne her fair share of pain, far more than Angel ever wanted her to sustain. He could see it in her eyes, although now there was more peace in her hazel orbs and he was pleased that he might be the reason for it. What made him happiest was glimpsing the pure joy in her eyes when they made love. God, he couldn't fathom the depths of the love he had for his blonde Slayer and the hatred and jealousy in Faith's eyes when she looked at his soulmate chilled him through his undead bones. He knew they needed her to fight Alanna, but there was no way he would trust the newcomer. There was something else in her eyes as well.

Angel was too old and far too experienced to miss the desire and passion which blazed whenever she laid eyes on him. He wasn't sure if she really wanted *him* or if she just wanted something that belonged to Buffy. Maybe it was both. The combination of all the brunette Slayer's feelings could be dangerous for each of them, but especially for Buffy. As she stirred beside him, Angel smiled at her and made a mental note to watch Faith closely in the upcoming days, then he lowered his head to kiss Buffy softly on the lips.

She gave him a sleepy smile in return, and blinked as she yawned, "Hmmm... 'morning love, what time is it?"

"It's still early, no need to get up yet. You don't have to get ready for school, you're on Christmas break, right?"

She nodded happily, closed her eyes again and snuggled closer to his chest. Angel tightened his arms around her waist and dropped another kiss on her forehead.

She couldn't help the smile that lit her features again, "Angel, this is too good to be true. I'm lying here in the arms of the man I love and I feel so unbelievably safe. You have no idea how good it feels to be with you like this. I don't want this feeling to ever end."

He teased his lover gently, "You just want to stay in bed."

She looked up and grinned, "You got me." She reluctantly pulled away and streched her arms and legs, yawning once more. "Now what time is it?"

"Around nine."

"Nine. So, lots of time until five," then she remembered something important. "Angel, when we meet at the library it will still be early, I mean it will still be daylight. You'll have to wait here until dusk."

"And that is a problem because?"

"You'll be on your own, alone. She could come here and try to attack you."

He gave a half-smile, "Don't worry, I doubt she'd try anything. Not before the 'Night of Hecomb'."

His lover wasn't immediately convinced, "Are you sure?"

"Pretty much."

Suddenly she grinned mischieviously, "Well then, since I don't have school today and the afternoon is literally hours away...", she reached out to wrap her arms around his head, tugging him down. When his lips were only an inch away from hers she whispered, "What do you do to me that I can't get enough of you?"

Angel groaned and lost himself in her kiss.

******

Giles closed his book with a sigh, then took off his glasses, wiping them with his handkerchief. All the while he was shaking his head, mumbling something undefinable.

Willow looked up from her perch in front of the computer screen, they had gathered in the library to research since the early morning hours and now it was almost five p.m.

Oz was seated opposite to his girlfriend. His uncanny werewolf senses felt her movement and he smiled his patented 'Willow-smile' at her. The redheaded wicca's eyes lit up as she returned the smile.

Cordelia was idly flipping through a book, yawning from time to time and staring boredly at her fingernails.

Xander leaned back in his chair, his long legs extended, heels on the table and a chocolate bar in his right hand. The boy's left hand held an old book that Giles had given him to that morning, which he perused diligently.

Willow's gaze turned back to Giles. She could clearly see the concern on his face. They'd been researching Alanna and the more they found out about her and Hillard, the deeper Giles seemed to be in thought. She also knew he was worried about Faith and whether or not the secondary Slayer would be reliable in a fight. She didn't trust Faith at all, and that was something new to her.

Willow hadn't liked Cordelia or Harmony, but that's because they were just snobs. Faith gave her a *major* wiggins, as Buffy would say. If it had been up to Willow, Faith could've just left Sunnydale and never come back. The redheaded Scoob didn't particularly care for the way the brunette Slayer looked at Xander, as if he were a snack cake and she was especially disgusted with the way the girl's eyes always rested hungrily on Angel, although she knew he was with Buffy. Willow could see that Xander was attracted to her 'bad girl' personality and that hurt more than it should have. She loved Oz now, there wasn't a doubt in her mind on that subject.

Even though she and Xander had kissed, it still cut her to the quick that he was so easily attracted to a pretty (albeit skankily dressed) girl and didn't think twice about her character. Sure, Cordelia's attitude toward her fellow Scoobies was much improved now, but when she and Xander had started to date, (or was it make out in broomclosets?) Cordelia was a *total* bitca and he had been attracted to her nevertheless. However, there was more about Faith that scared Willow than the other girl's radical fashion sense and questionable integrity, although she couldn't readily identify just what. She got the feeling that Angel didn't trust her either and decided she had to talk to the vampire about Faith. Soon.

Giles returned from his office and saw Willow's eyes resting on him, "Willow, did you find anything?"

"Oh. No, sorry. Um, I did find some mention about the 'Night of Hecomb' but nothing we haven't already found."

"Xander, Cordelia, Oz? Have any of you found anything?"

They all shook their heads back and forth. Giles sighed, "This is not good.We need to have more information about the rituals that can be done specifically on that day."

In the same moment, the library doors swung open and Buffy entered smiling broadly, "Hey guys."

Xander glanced up at her arrival. "Hey Buff. There ought to be a law against that humongous grin on your face. We've been here since the buttcrack of dawn to research this vamp, drinking horrible coffee and scarfing down chocolate bars for energy. And you dare to appear, seeming surprisingly rested, relaxed and happy. What's up with that, Miss Slayer?"

She grinned, "What can I say, Xand? Affirmative to all of the above."

Xander just shook his head and returned his weary eyes to his book.

Buffy turned to her Watcher, "Giles. Any news?"

"No, I am afraid not. Buffy, I am not criticizing you, but perhaps you could have arrived a bit earlier? We have a great challeng to face and you need to train."

Buffy smiled confidently, "No worries, Giles. Angel already gave me a two hour workout."

"Oh... oh... I see. That's good. Actually that's a splendid idea, it saves my mortal body from the aches, pains and resultant bruises."

Buffy grinned as she looked around the room. "Faith isn't here yet?"

"No, and we haven't heard from her either." Willow answered her friend with a smile, she had also noticed the comfortable expression on Buffy's face. And knew Angel had no small part in putting it there.

Buffy stepped over to Willow and took the chair next to her. "Well it's still early, we can wait for her."

*******

Angel awoke suddenly, surprised to hear a noise in the hall. Realizing that it was still daylight outside, he doubted it would be an unexpected visit from a vampire. He stood up, pulling a shirt over his head. When he headed toward the hall to investigate, he froze. Poised in the doorway of his bedroom was Faith ...clad only in her panties and a bra.

...

- Part 10

Angel's eyebrows rose as he looked at Faith without any emotion. "Faith. What a surprise."

She preened at him seductively. "Now, you big bad vampire. Finally I got you on your own."

Angel closed his eyes for a moment, then he faced her again, "What do you want?"

She casually leaned against the doorframe and licked her lips. "I thought that was pretty obvious."

He sighed. "No offense Faith, but I'm not interested. Thank you."

She smiled naughtily, stretched her arms behind her back and unhooked her bra, unashamedly exposing her full breasts.

Angel only rolled his eyes. "Faith, I'm too old to be impressed by your antics. And to repeat myself, I'm *not* interested."

He approached her and moved past through the doorway, pushing her away in the process. In the hall, he picked up her shirt, holding it in her direction. "So be a nice girl and put your top back on."

She snorted in derision, "Oh come on, don't tell me you aren't interested. There's no way that goody-two-shoes B. can satisfy your darkest cravings."

Angel sighed again, this was absolutely annoying. "Faith, what Buffy and I do is none of your business and I'm certainly not discussing our relationship with you. Just put your shirt on and leave. What the hell did you expect from me? Why don't you go on home and get a good night's sleep?"

With her hips swinging suggestively, she slowly approached the ensouled vampire again, her lips pulled into a sexy pout. "Come on, Angel. It could just be a 'quickie', I promise you won't regret it. I've got more experience when it comes to this field than Buffy does, and I've heard that you had your share of women too, so we could celebrate our own little carnival of pleasure together. Don't play the shy vamp act with me."

She took another step until she was standing right in front of him and faster than Angel could react, her hand shot forward, gripping him right between his legs.

Angel's eyes widened in surprise and the next moment he pushed her hand away and slammed her backward onto the sofa. He threw her shirt on top of her and fought against the urge to vamp out. His eyes were full of rage when he finally bellowed, "Put your shirt on. Now! And then get out!"

Faith grinned, "You can shout at me, but I can feel it, big guy. You want me. I can read it in your eyes."

Angel shook his head in amazement, calming down a little bit, "Faith, I really pity you. You must be hard up to come on to me like that. What part of 'NO' don't you understand? I'm with Buffy. I love her, though I don't imagine you know what that is. I would never cheat on her and even if I wanted to, I sincerely doubt it would be with you." The brunette Slayer donned her shirt, while glaring maliciously up at him. The hatred in her eyes was enough to take a mortal man's breath away.

"Buffy! It's *always* Buffy! I can't stand to hear that name anymore!. What is it about her that you're all so devoted? You go on fucking your little prissy blonde girl. You'll never know what you just passed up." With this remark, she stuffed her bra into the front pocket of her skintight jeans, and, shooting Angel another contemptuous glare, she turned and left.

Angel shook his head in disgust, put his shoes on quickly and left for the library.

When he entered through the swinging doors, the Scooby Gang was already ensconced around the table. He didn't see Faith, but hadn't really expected to find her there.

Buffy jumped up at once, ran over to him and hugged him tightly. Angel kissed her softly on the forehead and nodded a greeting towards the others.

Giles looked over at him, "Angel. It's good that you are here. We're still waiting for Faith."

Angel glanced down at Buffy. His lovers' questioning eyes indicated she felt something was on his mind. He smiled at her reassuringly and took both of her tiny hands into his large ones. Then he turned to face Giles again, "I doubt she'll come, Giles."

All heads whirled in his direction, he took a deep, unnecessary breath and explained, "She came to the mansion shortly after Buffy left."

"What?" Buffy's eyebrows quirked up and she gazed deeply into his eyes. He gave her a comforting smile and continued, "Buffy. She... she came to offer herself to me."

He saw the amazed looks on the faces of Xander, Giles and Oz. Surprisingly, Willow only nodded. Then he looked deeply into Buffy's hazel orbs, almost afraid at what he might find there, and was nearly taken aback by the amount of love and trust shining in their depths. He embraced her tightly and she could feel the relief that washed through his body. Then he turned to Giles again: "She stood half-naked in my bedroom doorway and tried to seduce me. You've got to believe that it was a shock, even for me. I had to forcibly push her out of the mansion. So I don't think she'll be helping us further on. Giles, I'm sorry, but ..."

"God, Angel. There's no need for you to be sorry. I can fully understand what you did."

Willow stood up and moved in front of the Watcher. "Giles, this just proves that she's crazy. I mean, everyone can see how much in love Buffy and Angel are, what the hell was she thinking? I'm afraid she's more dangerous than I thought."

Giles sighed, "Angel, are you absolutely sure about that?"

Angel nodded, "Believe me Giles, I've had enough experience with women like her. She made herself pretty clear. Willow's right. Faith is dangerous. She's so full of hate and jealousy toward Buffy that she's not thinking straight. We can't trust her in battle."

"Hey all! Once again, I seem to be the topic of discussion."

Everyone spun around to find Faith standing in the doorway.

Willow stepped close to her, "You! You've got some nerve to come here after what you tried with Angel!"

Faith chortled, "What did he tell you? That he was the poor little victim? Now Angel, why don't you tell them the truth?"

Angel didn't reply, but one eyebrow rose as he studied her face.

Faith continued, "He loved it, you know. Gotta tell ya, B., your boy fucked me like a champ, told me I was the first one in a long time to satisfy him."

Angel's eyes searched Buffy's, and he sighed in relief when he saw that she was smiling at him with confidence.

Then the blonde Slayer turned to face Faith. "In your dreams, Faith. You know, usually I'd be angry, but all I feel is pity for you. You're pathetic."

The secondary Slayer's laughter was full of bitterness: "Whatever. I came here to help, but I think I can find better things to do with my time. Oh, don't worry 'bout me, I can hold my own." With this she turned on her heel and exited.

"Bitch," Cordelia simply said and everyone agreed with her, only Willow added, "See, Giles. She is insane, I mean, have you listened to her? I think she's in need of some serious mental health care."

Giles looked at Buffy and Angel, "Oh dear. This situation is just *bloody* perfect! As if there weren't enough to worry about. It appears you two are on your own against Alanna, now."

Angel nodded, "It's okay. Maybe it's for the better. Giles, I really don't trust Faith and it doesn't help in a fight when you have to keep watching your back for someone who's supposed to be on your side."

*******

Alanna's head shot up rapidly when she heard a noise at the door of the old factory she'd chosen for her residence on the Hellmouth. "Look who's here. The Slayer."

Faith grinned widely, "You must be Alanna. I'm sure you remember, we've already met."

The vampire stood up, her game face apparent as she walked over to the brunette Slayer. "You must either have a death wish or you're crazy."

Anger flashed from Faith's eyes, "Don't you *ever* call me crazy. I just came to offer my help in your fight against Buffy and Angelus."

"Buffy?" Alanna queried.

Faith laughed at the vampire's ignorance. "Yes Buffy, you know, the *Slayer*."

"The Slayer?"

"Don't you vamps have some sort of Slayer grapevine? Buffy's the resident Slayer here in Sunnydale, I'm only a replacement. She died you know, but only for a minute. She was revived, but when her successor died, I was Called. Actually, it was a bit more complicated than that, but I won't bore you with the details."

Alanna peered at her, probing Faith's eyes, "Why should I trust you?"

"You don't have to trust me. I'm simply offering my help, take it or leave it."

Alanna smiled viciously, "What makes you think that I won't kill you ...or even better, turn you?"

"Because you're a smart vampire, and I'm more useful to you as a human. With super strength. There is one condition, though."

"A condition?"

"Yes."

"I don't care for the sound of that. You're quite impertinent, Slayer."

"Come on you're a smart vamp-chick, I can give you Angelus. I heard you're sorta interested in him. You know I don't blame you, he *is* a hottie."

Alanna frowned in anger, "I don't want Angelus. I didn't come here for him, but if we should meet, I'll be satisfied with taking my revenge for the time he tried to kill me."

"Whatever. He's yours, but I want to be the one who kills the Slayer. Deal?"

Alanna's gaze ticked back over Faith. The redheaded vampire seemed to silently debate something in her head, then she smiled evilly. "Deal."

...

Part 11

When Cordelia's eyes flew to the clock it was already midnight. Each Scooby Gang member then called his or her parents to free themselves for a research party. Buffy was already available as her mom was still in Hawaii.

Cordelia couldn't help but smile as she watched Buffy sitting on Angel's lap, trying to keep her eyes open. 'Queen C' surmised that their active lovelife had to be really tiring. Angel, on the other hand didn't seem to be fatigued at all, but then he *was* a vampire and maybe vampires didn't need much sleep, not that they slept during the night anyhow. He seemed very concentrated on the book he was perusing when Buffy's head fell back onto his shoulder. He smiled, kissed her forehead and shifted in his chair to make her more comfortable.

Cordelia sighed inwardly, maybe one day she would find a man who treated her like she was gold. And if he was a millionaire with his own film company, that would be a bonus. She smiled again to herself. Yes, her future could definitely be bright, just as long as she survived New Year's Eve. No negativity, be positive Chase!

"Hey guys! I think I found something," Willow exclaimed.

Everyone looked over at her and Buffy blinked.

Giles asked, "What is it?"

"Well, actually Oz found it," Willow's smiling face shone at her boyfriend, who sat beside her at the monitor.

"Willow!" Giles became impatient.

"Oh, sorry. This passage says that there is some sort of magic required to open the Hellmouth on the 'Night of Hecomb'. A specific spell is involved, but unfortunately the spell itself isn't in here. But it goes on to explain everything about the magic ingredients needed, like herbs, eye of rat and some other stuff."

"Can I just say, eeeew! The eye of a rat? Gross." Cordelia's face was scrunched in disgust.

"It may not sound like a recipe out of a gourmet cookbook, but it's very interesting."

"It is, Giles. And if it gives you the power to open a Hellmouth than it has to be very strong." Willow yawned.

Giles looked around, "What about a bit of sleep for everyone? You're all free to use my office."

Each of them nodded in agreement. Only Giles and Angel remained awake to continue reading while the others plopped down wherever they could find space.

Buffy, however, didn't move, she was too comfortable where she was.

Giles glanced at her and smiled, "She looks quite happy."

Angel gazed down at the sleeping Slayer, "I truly hope so."

"She does. *You* make her happy. I am sorry - I was too blind to see it before now," the Watcher confessed.

Angel's smile became serious again, "Giles, you have nothing to appologize for. I could never forgive anyone who hurt Buffy."

"I have not forgiven Jenny's killer, Angel. Although Buffy made me realize it was not you."

Angel nodded. "Yeah. Buffy can have that effect on you. She made me understand that, too. At least sometimes. This morning she told me I'd be able to smile more, once I separated myself from my demon's actions. Maybe that's true, but if it is, it's only her doing."

Giles gaze wandered again to Buffy's slumbering form: "She is like a daughter to me, you know."

"I know."

"I trust you with her Angel. I know how much you love her."

A sad smile played around Angel's mouth. "I do, I only hope it's enough. She's so young, Giles. There is so much life has to offer her. Sometimes I think I'm being selfish. Keeping her with me means she's staying away from whatever else could be out there for her."

Giles shook his head negatively. "No Angel, never believe that. She is young, that is true, but she is also extremely mature for her age. She had to face death on a nightly basis since she was Called at the age of fifteen. She had to face the demon, Angelus, who stalked her wearing her lover's face, and then she was forced to send you to hell. That is so much more than most people suffer their entire lives. No, you should leave it up to her to decide what she wants."

Angel looked down at Buffy and gave her another gentle kiss.

Giles stood up and laid one hand on Angel's shoulder. "I am glad you are back," he said simply, turned and disappeared between the stacks.

A moment later Buffy stirred and then opened her eyes. "Angel?"

"Yes, Love."

"How long was I asleep?"

"Not very long, close your eyes again."

"What about you? You must be tired too. It's not as if you got any more sleep than I did."

He grinned, "I'm fine. I don't need as much sleep as a human and ... anyway, sleeping during the night is sort of unfamiliar for me."

"Oh, of course." She shifted on his lap to sit up, "Did you talk to Giles? I thought I heard voices."

"I did." When he saw her inquiring look he added, "It was a good talk. He said ...he trusts me with you. That was something I never expected to hear. It's almost unbelievable."

Buffy reached out to gently caress his cheek, "You shouldn't always think so badly of yourself. You're an honorable man, you have a precious soul. And you're very special to me."

"If you say so. But you make me sound like a gem."

She giggled, "Angel-gem. Sounds nice."

He couldn't help but laugh as well and Buffy kissed him tenderly. "I love to hear you laugh. You should laugh more often."

Angel returned her kiss gently. "I love you. Now, why don't you go into Giles' office and lay down. You need to sleep."

"Okay, I'll obey you. But just this once. See you later."

She kissed him on the cheek and then disappeared through the doorway to Giles' office.

*******

When Buffy woke up again, the daylight had been streaming through the library windows for quite awhile. She rolled over and there was something wrong. Instantly she knew. Angel's arms were missing. She sat up and remembered where she was. In the library, in Giles' office.

Beside her Willow had just opened her eyes. She laid curled up in Oz' embrace.

Xander's figure was sprawled across the room, while Cordelia had claimed Giles' sofa.

Willow smiled over at Buffy and mouthed "Morning".

The blonde Slayer smiled and mouthed "Morning, Will" in answer. Then she stretched the kinks out of her arms and got to her feet quietly, so as not to disturb the others.

When she came into the library she found Giles asleep, his head laying in one of his books.

Angel was nowhere to be seen, which was only logical. He must have left before dawn.

Buffy walked over to Giles and gently tapped on his shoulder. "Giles."

The Watcher's head shot up, and when his eyes were able to focus, he greeted her. "Yes. Good morning, Buffy."

"Good Morning to you. When did Angel leave?"

"Oh... I'd say about three hours ago. He didn't want to wake you."

She nodded, "Is it okay if I leave for an hour or two to check on him?"

"Of course."

"See you later."

*******

Buffy entered the mansion only twenty minutes later and froze. The front hall had been trashed. The sofas were turned upside down, the cushions torn asunder and the desk was broken. The heavy drapes that usually covered the windows had been yanked to the floor. Buffy felt panic creeping inside of her. She checked in his bedroom, then went upstairs, Angel was nowhere to be found. Where was he? Had something happened to him? She couldn't seem to process just one thought at a time, multiple horrific scenarios were running through her mind. Angel staked, turned to dust, Angel chained and tortured, Angel...

"No!" She cried out and fell to the stone floor sobbing. As she lifted her head, her eyes were drawn to a terrible sight and she nearly fainted. It was blood. Not just a few drops, but a large amount of blood. She put her hand to her mouth to prevent herself from screaming out loud.

Then she got to her feet, bolted out of the mansion and ran to the library at lightning speed. She burst through the doors and shouted, "Giles! It's Angel. Something's happened to Angel."

"Good god, Buffy, please compose yourself. Sit down and tell me what happened." Giles took her arm and led her to a chair at the table while he tried to comfort her.

Between sobs she croaked, "A... Angel. I .. I went t-to the m-m-mansion. Everything w-w-was broken and there was b-blood. Oh god, Giles. Maybe he's hurt or maybe..." her voice broke.

"Shhh. Buffy, try to calm down. I feel quite certain that Angel can take care of himself."

"We thought that the last time, and that's when he lost his soul. Giles, I can't lose him again. I just can't!"

"Buffy, maybe there was a fight and he's hiding somewhere underground now." Willow came out of the office, knelt beside her friend and took her hand.

"Oh, Willow! What if..."

"No, *don't* even think that. He'll contact you as soon as he can. I'm sure."

Giles returned with a glass of water, "Drink this, Buffy."

She looked tearfully up at him, accepted the glass and took a long gulp.

The others soon came out of the office as well. They'd all heard what Buffy had said. Xander wanted to say something, but was silenced by the look Cordelia swiftly shot at him. She covered quickly, "We're just going back to do some more research." And off they went.

******

By nightfall Buffy was nearly insane with worry. She'd tried to focus her mind on the books she was supposed to be researching, but all she could think about was Angel. When she realized that she wasn't getting anywhere with the books, she sat herself down in a corner of the library, pulling her knees to her chin and staring off into space. The others sometimes looked over at her, but no one said a word - mostly because they didn't know what to say to comfort her.

Only ten minutes after the darkness had fallen over Sunnydale, a noise was heard from outside.

Buffy's head immediately shot up and the others' gazes flew to the library entrance. Then the doors swung open and he was there. Buffy felt her legs move of their own accord and she ran to him, headlong into his arms, clunging to him as if he was her lifeline.

He held her close, after what seemed hours her head lifted from the safety of his broad chest and she inquired, "What happened?"

His face serious, he told her, "I had some company when I got back to the mansion. Faith and three vampires paid me a little visit. Obviously she's changed sides, because the three are... were Alanna's men. I recognized them from yesterday night."

Buffy's voice was hoarse with unshed tears, "But where have you been? I was so worried."

"I had to hide... in the sewers. After I dusted the three vampires, another five had been waiting outside and they surrounded me in the hallway. At that point I decided I'd better make a run for it. Buffy, Faith tried to kill me."

"What?," she gasped, then she searched his body for wounds. "Where are you hurt? Angel, there was so much blood."

"Buffy, I'm fine. I had a cut, but it's already healed. The puddle of blood in the hall wasn't mine, it's Faith's. I had no choice but to fight her."

"Oh God, Angel. I thought..." She broke down in his arms and cried. Angel held her close to him, whispering words of consolation in her ears.

Giles came over to them, "I'm glad to hear you weren't seriously wounded." His eyes wandered to Buffy and Angel instantly knew what he meant. Buffy must have been worried to death, especially after her experiences with Angelus.

When Buffy calmed down, Angel led her over to a chair, where he sat down and drew her onto his lap. She curled into him like a kitten, and gazed up at him lovingly, one hand continuously stroking his cheek as if to reassure herself that he was truly there. She kissed him gently on his cool lips and then embraced him tightly. The intensity of her hug would've caused a mortal man to wince.

Angel peered around the room. The others had returned to their research.

Only Willow looked up at him and smiled. She was relieved that nothing dangerous had happened to him. She didn't even want to think about what a permanent injury ... or (heaven forbid) Angel's death - would have meant to her best friend.

Buffy's hazel orbs regarded him solemnly. "You're not leaving here without me tomorrow morning," she warned matter-of-factly. Angel could only nod in agreeance.

...

Part 12

Alanna was furious when Faith finally came back to the factory. "What the Hell do you think you're doing, Slayer? Taking some of MY minions and just disappearing, that was not the deal. I am the mistress here!"

"You may be THEIR mistress," Faith pointed to the vampires sitting in a corner playing cards, "But I'm a Slayer, I'm *not* the type to take orders."

"Be careful, Slayer. I could kill you in a second. Have you already forgotten our little exchange the other night?"

Faith shrugged, "I was upset that night and I wasn't paying attention. I won't make it so easy for you next time."

"Perhaps, young Slayer. But remember, there is Hillard too. Together we are invincible."

"Yeah, whatever."

Alanna growled deep in her throat and asked, "Where have you been? By my count three of my minions are missing."

"I paid our friend a little visit."

"Our friend?"

"Angelus."

"WHAT? HE IS NO BUSINESS OF YOURS AT THE MOMENT! DO NOT INTERFERE WITH MY PLANS!" Alanna's human face showed her fury.

Faith only grinned, "No harm, no foul. I didn't kill him. I just wanted to scare him."

The vampiress' answer was a chuckle, "You really have a deathwish, Slayer. You're no challenge for Angelus. He has power, not as potent as mine, but he is quite strong. I am aware that he has a soul now. Just because he looks like a guilt-stricken, pathetic human, you would do well not to underestimate him."

"You seem to know him very well."

"I do. He is my Sire."

Faith gasped, "Your Sire? You're kidding, right? Wow, that's just too rich. You two were... I mean - how long were you two involved?"

Alanna bowed her head and when her gaze returned to Faith, a sparkle of delight was visible in her eyes. "We were together for more than a human lifetime. He was obsessed with me, but then those foolish gypsies cursed him. Afterward he didn't want anything to do with me. He is a traitor to his own kind."

"Yeah, I know how it feels. I wanted Angel too, but he had the nerve to turn me down. That was the reason for my visit," her voice became angry. "He preferred that little goody-two-shoes blonde Slayer over me. Nobody rejects me without paying a price." She looked over to see the redheaded vampire with a strange look on her face.

Suddenly Alanna focused on Faith again. "Repeat that," she demanded.

"What?"

"Did you just say he and the Slayer are together? A Slayer and a vampire?"

Faith laughed evilly, "Oh yeah, they're together. In a big way. That's what really pisses me off. Having to watch their sickening displays of love every hour of every day."

A vicious smile played around the corners of Alanna's mouth, "Then my dear, I believe we have just found the perfect vehicle for our revenge."

With this, she turned on her heel and left the room. Faith stared uncomprehendingly in her wake. After a moment, it hit her and a sadistic smile crawled up her face. Buffy would get just what was coming to her!

*******

Part 13

The driver felt extremely uncomfortable when his ebony car passed the 'Welcome to Sunnydale' sign. Nothing in this godforsaken town was really worth coming back for. Well, that's not exactly true, he amended.

Some of his most loved hours were spent here with his one true eternal love, his dark princess, who no longer existed to him. He felt blindly beside him on the bench seat, finding the half-empty whiskey bottle and taking a long gulp. Its fiery warmth couldn't make him feel any better, though. An incident which occurred three months ago had changed his entire unlife.

It was not he who had killed his eternal love. Just the remembrances of her filled his platinum head with sad thoughts. Even though he hadn't really loved her anymore...

A foolish gypsy apparently thought she had done him a favor. Those gypsies could all go to bloody hell... Unfortunately, the truth was that now he felt pain, guilt and grief along with nearly feeling human. Human after almost 200 years of cruelty toward humans!

He was having a difficult time handling his new life, so he'd decided to journey half-way across the world to the one person that would understand him, the *only* person who could help.

He slammed his boot-clad foot down hard on the brake and parked the vehicle in front of Sunnydale's high school. He was slightly cheered to see that the library was still brightly lit, he only hoped the people inside wouldn't stake him at first sight. He took a deep unnecessary breath and got out of the car.

*******

Angel and Buffy both felt the presence of a vampire at the same time. The blonde Slayer glanced at her ensouled vampire love and the pair rose simultaneously from their chairs, heading toward the swinging doors.

The others in the room noticed their movement, and they looked at one another realizing that something was up.

Oz squeezed Willow's hand tightly under the table and she gave him a nervous grimace that was meant to be a smile.

******

He hesitated in the hall for only the briefest of moments. Then he summoned up his courage, pushed the doors of the library open and entered.

*******

A short gasp escaped from Buffy's throat when the intruder came into view. Her body automatically assumed a fighter's stance.

Angel's eyes ticked over to her, full of confusion, then he again focused on the interloper. "What are you doing back here? Wasn't your goal to 'find and torture Drusilla to make her see that she still loved you'? And as I recall, you were never going to return to the Hellmouth."

Spike looked his Grandsire straight in the eye, "She's dead, Peaches."

Angel quirked an eyebrow, something was wrong with his grandchilde. There was something about his eyes, he told himself, yes, they're different, almost as if...

Before he could finish the thought, Buffy approached Spike with a stake in her hand. "I think you'd better just leave quickly, Blondie. Otherwise you'll leave in dust particles."

"STOP!" Angel shouted behind her. Buffy was completely surprised by his outburst and turned to face her lover. He shook his head at her, then he stepped toward Spike as well.

The Scooby Gang and Giles exchanged glances, they had no clue as to what was going on.

Angel was only a foot away from Spike when he finally asked, "When did it happen?"

Spike sighed, at that point he knew he wasn't going to die, well at least not tonight. "Three months ago. A gypsy."

Angel only nodded and turned to face Buffy, "You can put the stake down. He's not going to harm anyone."

Buffy couldn't believe what she'd just heard, "WHAT? May I remind you that he's tried to kill you, me, Willow, Xander - almost every one of us at one time?"

"He won't try to kill any of us anymore, Buffy. He has a soul."

The eyes of each and every human in the room went wide in wonder.

Xander was the first to speak, "That's just great. Now we've got not one, but two Dead Boys with souls. Is there some kind of soul-restoring epidemic going on that we weren't told about?"

Giles shot him a silencing glare and walked over to Angel. "Are you sure?"

The dark haired vampire nodded in the affirmative. "I am. I can see it in his eyes. Trust me, I'm very familiar with that sort of expression."

Spike peered back at him, "I can understand you now, mate. Although I'm not the brooding type, being a vampire with a soul is no bloody picnic."

"It's not easy," Angel assented.

Spike looked at all the people gathered in the library and nodded at them as a greeting. Then he glanced back to his Grandsire, "I came ... to ask for ... help," his eyes fell to the floor. "I need someone to help me to ... deal with it ... the memories. Oh, bloody hell, I hate this!"

Angel smiled and put a hand on his shoulder, "You never were the type to ask for help. Not even as a human, this must be a new experience for you, Spike."

"Yeah, well. You were never the brooding type either, mate. So, it seems having a soul does change a person."

"Yes, it really does. Whenever you want to talk..."

"Thanks. I'm staying at the Sunnydale Motel in town. I'll see you around." With this he turned and exited almost soundlessly through the swinging doors.

Buffy frowned, "I can't believe it. Spike with a soul. He is so ... different."

Angel smiled at her, "It happens."

Knowing exactly what he meant, Buffy smiled back at him and nodded.

"Are you really quite certain he's not just playacting?" Giles was still skeptical.

"Yes. I'm sure. It's not only his words, it's his behavior, his aura. I could sense him when he entered the school but there was something different, the evil aura usually emanating from a vampire wasn't present. Giles, I'm positive."

Buffy agreed, "I felt the same way, Giles. He's ensouled, no doubt about it."

Giles sighed, "Nevertheless, we must return our focus on Alanna and her wizard accomplice. We have only a few days left until the 'Night of Hecomb'."

Then the Watcher looked around, taking in all the children. "However, as it is now almost midnight and we are all in need of some sleep, I suggest that you all go home and we'll meet again tomorrow at nine - sharp."

Everyone nodded, the last couple of days had been exhausting and they soon left the library. Only Giles, Buffy and Angel remained.

The handsome vampire eyed his lover, "I say we do a quick patrol and head home too. Giles?"

"I'm leaving as well. I'm expecting a phone call from England in an hour that will hopefully give us some more details."

The three of them left the school, Giles got into his battered Citroen and drove away, slowly.

"He really should get another car," Buffy grinned. "So, Spike has a soul. Weird."

"It is. I have to admit that I'm happy about it. He won't be able to kill anymore, which makes things safer."

The Slayer took his hand in hers, "Okay, so now he's not such a bad person. I kinda get the feeling he wasn't a bad guy before he was turned, either."

Angel shrugged, "I wouldn't know. I didn't really know him as a human. Actually Drusilla found him and persuaded me to allow her to make him a vampire. She wanted a playmate. Alright ... HE gave his permission for Dru to make him a vampire." He corrected himself and Buffy smiled, "That's my boyfriend. Just never forget, it wasn't. Your. Fault." She pointedly emphasized the last three words.

Angel smiled down at her, "However, as a vampire he was definitely *not* a nice person, as evidenced by his past behavior."

Suddenly a mischievous grin appeared on Buffy's face. "Actually, I'm looking forward to getting to know him. He can tell me all those little secrets from your past that you don't like to talk about."

Angel grinned back, "I'll bet. But if Spike knows what's good for him, he won't say a word. He's still a vampire with respect for his Grandsire."

Buffy giggled, "Hmm... I don't know about that. As I recall, he sided with me against Angelus and Drusilla. And I got the impression he really wasn't fond of HIM."

"You like the idea of him spilling secrets far too much," Angel frowned. Then he took his lover's hand, "Come on let's get this patrol finished quickly. You need your sleep."

She smiled at him seductively, "I can think of one or two other things I need *before* that."

Angel shook his head laughing, "Since when did you turn into a nymphomaniac?"

Buffy grinned back at him and pulled him toward the nearest cemetery.

...

Part 14

Driving his car through the streets of Sunnydale, everything looked different through Spike's eyes. He was trying to acutally see things, not just looking for "Happy Meals on legs". The town was quiet and the blond vampire drove on, heading for a well-known motel.

Suddenly he saw two shadows turning around a corner. He could sense the other vampires at once, then he recognized the female one and he forgot to breathe.

Spike carefully stopped the car to watch them. Alanna was very familiar known to him, he remembered Angelus creating her, being obsessed with her and deserting her after he was cursed by the gypsies. Spike would never forget how furious she had been at the time, she'd killed 20 humans and sucked them dry in the same night. She was vicious to the bone and even the soulless Spike had been afraid of her - well, up to a certain point. Alanna and Angelus had been a pair to remember, for four weeks. For the sake of the world the Romany gypsies had put an end to it.

Spike could see Alanna talking to the other person who was - to his surprise- a human. A young girl with dark hair and a supremely aggressive body language. The power was coming off in waves from her body, Spike quirked an eybrow in surprise. Who *was* that?

When they diappeared into the dark he quickly changed his mind. Instead of going directly to the motel, he turned the black behemouth around and drove without hesitation toward the mansion.

*******

Buffy and Angel's lips were locked in a passionate kiss, they were enjoying a heated make out session on his couch in the hall when there was a knock at the front door of the mansion.

Both heads shot up and Buffy disentangled herself from Angel's embrace to open the door. When she saw Spike standing there she frowned, "We just saw you at the library, what're you doing here?"

He took a cigarette from his pocket and lit it. Blowing the smoke into the air he said, "How about you invite me in first and I'll tell you, Slayer?"

"Come in," came Angel's voice from behind and Spike entered, passing Buffy with a slight grin on his face. Angel put his hand up to stop him from going any further, "No smoking in my house, Spike."

The blond vampire gave Angel an astonished look. "Bloody hell, you've become health-conscious, Peaches?"

Angel grinned, "What can I say, secondary smoke causes lung cancer. Not that it would be dangerous for me," he glanced over to Buffy, "But my girlfriend is supposed to live as long as possible."

Buffy grinned back at her lover.

Spike shot his Grandsire another look, "As you wish, it's your home." He stepped back through the doorway, dropped the cigarette to the stone step and ground it out beneath his bootheel. Then he re-entered the mansion.

Angel asked, "So, why *did* you come here?" He showed Spike to the sofa and chose a seat beside his Slayer.

"I saw Alanna," Spike simply answered.

Buffy and Angel nodded and the dark haired vampire replied, "I know she's here. It seems she came for the 'Night of Hecomb'."

"Hmm. And there was someone with her. A human girl."

Buffy frowned, "Tall, brunette, slutty outfit?"

Spike looked surprised, "Yeah. You know her?"

"We do. She's a Slayer."

"A Slayer? Oh, I see. The replacement for... the one Dru killed."

Angel saw the shadow that flickered over the gaze of his childe but it was quickly gone. He told him, "Her name is Faith. She's ... she's had a difficult childhood and ..."

"A quick temper, an evil personality, to make a long story short, she's dangerous, plain and simple." Buffy finished her lover's sentence.

Spike released a deep breath, "I get it. And she's joined the dark side. What is Alanna up to? Was she searching for you?"

Angel shrugged, "Possibly. But I think the 'Night of Hecomb' is her first target."

Spike leaned back, "You need any help?"

Angel grinned at him in disbelief. "You're offering to help US? Will miracles never cease tonight?"

"Yeah, I'm offering to help. I have changed you know, and Alanna was never a friend of mine. And maybe, after it's all over, we could persuade her to help me find someone she used to travel with."

"And that would be?" Buffy still could not believe that the person sitting in front of her, offering assistance, was Spike.

"Hillard, he's a wizard."

"He's here, too. With her. Well, that's our best guess."

"Hillard's here? Well then, I'll play for your team, just as long as you leave *him* to me." Spike's expression changed from relaxed to tensed.

Angel scrutinized the face of his childe, "What happened between you two?"

Spike's eyes became slits and he bit his lower lip, then he answered, "He killed Drusilla."

*******

Part 15

When Buffy came to the library the next morning she informed her friends (minus Oz because he had to practice with his other "Dingoes Ate My Baby" bandmates) and Giles about the things Spike had told her and Angel the night before.

Spike, Angel and she had talked a bit further on. He had explained to them that Hillard had fallen for Drusilla and when she had refused him, he had put a curse on her which compelled her to walk into the sunshine.

Spike had watched her burn. There was nothing he could do to either stop or save his "Dark Princess" from the wizard's vengeance.

Two days later he had been cursed by the Romany gypsy. It happened because he was still grieving over Dru's death and wasn't paying attention to *what* he was attacking that night. After Angelus was cursed, Spike had sworn to himself that he'd keep a safe distance from any and all gypsies. So now, he too was cursed with a soul.

Due to the enormous pain and guilt he felt in the first months after the cursing, he did forget about Dru for a while. He also realised what vicious animals they had been when hunting together. But still, a part of him loved her and had sworn to take revenge on the wizard who had caused her death. The way Spike saw it, this man was twice as evil as they had been. After all, she hadn't chosen to be either insane or a vampire, Angelus had done this to her. Although Spike was well aware that his Grandsire was also a victim when he met Darla in the alley on that fateful night in Ireland.

It was nearly three a.m. when the trio decided they were too tired to talk anymore. Buffy and Angel chose to invite Spike to stay at the mansion, seeing as it had rooms to spare.

Spike gladly agreed and Buffy felt a bit of relief that Angel wouldn't be alone when she left for the library.

"So, Spike has offered his help?" Giles rubbed the bridge of his nose in his charcteristic 'Giles' way.

Buffy nodded affirmatively. "Yeah, he did. I think now that Faith's joined Alanna's side, we're gonna need him."

"I agree. After all, he is quite strong and does have inside knowledge of both Alanna and Hillard, which could be of some assistance in battling them. Also, although it was a long time ago, he is accustomed to fighting on Angel's side."

"That means Spike is on the home-team now. Man, in no time the dead boys will outnumber the living ones in this town." Xander shook his head and Buffy gave him a look.

"I think he's cute," Willow chimed in from behind her laptop. Everyone looked at her in disbelief. She shrugged her shoulders diffidently, "What? He's just so sweet now that he's not evil anymore."

Xander shook his head again and rolled his eyes, then turned to search for a book.

Cordelia looked up from the page she was reading, "You know, actually I think Willow's right. He does look kinda cute, and you can't help noticing that he has a nice smile. Without the fangs, of course."

"Can we just skip the subject of whether Spike's cute or not, guys?" Buffy sat down next to Willow, "Do we have anything else about this 'Night of Hec'?"

"'Night of Hecomb'," Giles corrected, "And yes. Willow was here early this morning and she found something. It seems there is some sort of spell we can utilize to weaken Hillard's powers, which would aid our cause immensely. Willow's quite certain that she'll be able to cast it." He smiled affectionately at the redhead and she nodded positively.

"That sounds good. Now what about Alanna?"

"She's undoubtably strong, but with Spike, Angel and yourself combined I think we could beat her in combat. What really bothers me is Faith."

"Why?" Willow asked.

"Because she is a human being, and not a demon. Fighting her will be different. And I daresay, difficult at best."

Buffy looked at her Watcher with wide eyes. Up until this moment, she hadn't actually realized that she would be forced to face the brunette Slayer in a life and death battle. The blonde Slayer didn't like Faith, but that didn't mean she'd ever planned to kill her.

"Maybe you'll all think I'm talking crazy, but she deserves to die. Faith joined a bunch of vampires that want to kill all mankind. In my book, that makes her our enemy," Willow was clearly distraught.

"You know, I have to go with 'G-man' here. She is still a human."

"Don't you dare take her side, Xander Harris," Willow shouted, "Did you forget what kind of person she is, what she tried with Angel?"

Xander gaped at his best friend since childhood, but didn't dare to contradict her.

Giles was completely taken aback by Willow's outburst. It was hard to believe that the normally kind-hearted, understanding, intelligent redhead should feel so vehemently toward another. The librarian took his glasses off and wiped at them with his handkerchief.

Buffy took the wiccan's hand, "You know there's no love lost between her and I, but they're right. She's human - and a Slayer."

Willow took a deep breath and continued in a quieter tone, "I know. It's just ... I still ... she's evil, Buffy. I know she's a human being but that doesn't change anything. I don't have any humanitarian feelings toward her. She allies herself with vampires, that's a big 'no-no'. And trying to seduce Angel was just the last straw."

"We could capture her," Cordelia proferred. Everyone turned around to face the cheerleader.

Buffy's gaze wandered from Giles to Willow and back to Cordelia, noticing Xander standing right behind his ex.

"Capture her," she echoed, "That sounds ... that sounds like a pretty good idea, Cordelia!"

"WHAT?!," Giles exclaimed.

"Giles, listen. Maybe Cordelia has found the solution to our problem. We could take Faith prisoner and keep her tucked away safely until the battle is over. Afterwards, we can all put our heads together and decide what to do with her. Angel still thinks she's not completely lost, we had a fight over this subject tonight when he and I were lying ... you know ... but I've been thinking about it and maybe he's right."

"I cannot believe you said that," Willow muttered.

"I heard that, Will. Yeah, I said it. Faith had a pretty hard life, before she got to Sunnydale. Angel believes that her uber-aggression is her only way of shielding herself against more pain."

Giles nodded, "I have given that some thought myself and my conclusions were similar to Angel's. We should postpone further discussion on this matter until tonight when Angel and ... Spike will be joining us."

Everyone nodded in agreement and went back to work.

********

When Angel came into the hall Spike was already awake, sitting on the couch and flipping through a book he had found on the table. When he heard his Grandsire's footfalls, he turned his head, "These are poems, you great bloody Poof. Don't you have anything more entertaining to read around here?"

"Good morning to you, too. Entertaining - like what?"

"I don't know. A thriller, or a true crime story, something along those lines."

Angel frowned, "There are bookstores all over Sunnydale. You're free to buy whatever you want to read."

Spike only shook his head in disgust.

Angel sat down opposite the blond, looking at the other vampire with serious eyes, "How do you feel?"

"You know mate, I always thought you were pathetic. When I woke up ... after I was cursed ... I tried to kill myself. It was just too hard, this punishment is too cruel."

Angel nodded in understanding, "I know."

"The Hell you know. As a human I was nothing special, as a vampire I was a despicable bastard... And now I discover a part of me that has a heart. This is scary."

"Tell me. I was a drunken lout and Angelus, well ... you were there. Don't ever think I don't know exactly how you feel right now."

"I'm much better now. I often remembered your words of wisdom. You know what you once said to me, that you had to live because you had to make amends? I never forgot that."

Angel gazed at him in astonishment, "I said that over eighty years ago."

"Yeah, but I still remember it. It was when I saw you, living on the streets, feeding from rats and being all pitiful-like, when I asked you why you wouldn't end that sorrowful little un-life of yours."

"I wasn't really aware how I could make amends then, but I just knew if I killed myself that would be the greatest sin I could ever commit. There had to be some reason for me being the way I was. It only took me nearly eighty years and the love of the most amazing woman I've ever met to see it."

Spike leaned back on the couch. "I always thought she was hot."

"Spike," his Grandsire growled a warning.

The blond vampire raised his hand in apology. "Sorry, mate. It was meant as a compliment."

Angel only nodded and sighed, Spike would always be Spike, no matter what.

"Do you have a 'telly'?" Spike asked and Angel only rolled his eyes.

*******

"Well THAT was boring." Faith was laying on a sofa in the basement of the factory. A young blond vampire was by her side, grinning satisfactorily. She pushed him off the sofa and stood. "I always thought sex with a vampire would be something .. I dunno ...extraordinary. You were a very big disappointment."

She gave him a last glare and walked to where Hillard was sitting on a table looking into a glass orb. "Anything new happening in the world?", she asked mockingly.

He peered up at her as if he'd been woken from a trance and struggled to focus his attention on her, "You have broken my concentration. Never disturb me again," he hissed at her.

"Okay, fine. So *is* there any news?"

He shook his head, "I am not looking for news, Slayer. I was talking to the ghosts."

Faith frowned, "Whatever. Sounds ... interesting." She turned back the way she had come, the bored expression hadn't left her features. As she approached an elder, black haired vampire, she invited, "Now, what do you think about good old-fashioned sex?"

*******

Spike and Angel joined the gang after sundown and were informed of Cordelia's idea that they capture Faith before the 'Night of Hecomb'.

Angel agreed, "I think it's a good idea."

Spike said nothing.

They decided Spike would look for Faith, since she didn't know him and wouldn't anticipate any threat from him. As soon as he had found her he would report back and Buffy and Angel would meet him to retrieve her.

"This sounds so easy, almost too easy." Buffy knew from experience that often the simple plans were the ones with the possibility of the most complications.

"No worries, Blondie, I'll find her," Spike gave her a cheeky smile and left.

Buffy shivered, and when everyone looked at her she explained. "I haven't gotten used to this 'new and improved' Spike."

...

Part 16

After her little interlude with the elderly vampire, Faith was still unsatisfied, so she decided to leave the factory and take a stroll through the streets of the town on the Hellmouth.

Spike found her near one of the many graveyards in Sunnydale. She was sitting on a bench, just staring at her feet.

He thought about reporting that to the people in the library but then decided against it. Slowly he approached her and her head shot up. He stood and held her intense gaze which ran up and then down his body. By the look in her eyes Spike could see she knew he was a vampire.

Thinking quickly for a strategy he smiled at her, "I was looking for you."

The brunette frowned, "So?"

"I've heard about you, a Slayer turning evil doesn't happen everyday, you know. Word on the street is you've joined up with Alanna."

She smiled back, "Evil Slayer, hmmm? You're not one of Alanna's minions, so what do you want from me?"

Spike stepped closer, "I was just curious, pet."

She studied him, "You're different from other vampires."

"Bloody right! I used to rule this town, you might have heard about me."

When he saw her questioning look she simply said, "Spike."

Faith grinned widely. "Yeah. Your name came up from time to time. I was told you'd left town."

"What can I say, I just like it here in good old Sunnyhell. And I miss my fellow Grandsire and his girlfriend."

"Care to explain?"

"Angel. He's my Grandsire." He saw her eyes widen but she said nothing. He gave her a cocky grin, "I presume you've met. He was quite a devil once but today he's only blondie's pathetic lapdog."

A short laugh escaped Faith's mouth and she brazenly allowed her eyes to wander over Spike's form, "Would you prefer her over me?"

"Are you kidding? Wanna give it a go?"

She grinned again and leaned forward to kiss him. Spike responded. Then suddenly his hand shot forward and with one blow she was rendered senseless.

Spike looked at her unconscious figure now lying on the bench. He sighed, then picked her up and threw her over his shoulder as he headed for the library.

********

"That should keep her safe for a while," Buffy said shutting the door of thelibrary cage behind her.

Faith was still out and now safely chained up inside the thick iron cage. The blonde Slayer's gaze ticked over to the blond vampire, "I can't believe you just knocked her out. She usually doesn't trust strangers."

Spike arched one eyebrow, "What can I say, Slayer - that I'm the trustworthy type? Let's just say her attention was... occupied elsewhere - she never realized what hit her."

Buffy laughed and glanced over to Angel where she noticed a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. The darker vampire shrugged, "I don't know, Buffy. He always *did* have a way with the women."

Spike chuckled. "Well that's all very amusing, but we'll have to set up a schedule to watch over her."

"She seems tightly bound but for safety's sake I'd like someone here with her all the time," Giles cut in.

Angel nodded, "You're right. I'll take first watch. I can stay here until sunrise."

"And I'll join him." Buffy went over and settled herself in Angel's lap.

"Why doesn't that surprise me," Spike remarked from his seat at the table.

Giles rubbed his forehead, "Now that we have that taken care of, I will return before sunrise. I daresay I'm in need of some sleep. I'm pleased to see that the others have gone home, they are all very tired. What about you, Spike?"

"I'd be willing to do a bit of reconnaissance, if it's alright with you."

Angel shook his head, he didn't like this idea. "I don't agree, Spike. Hillard knows about you."

"No mate, he doesn't. He killed Dru, but he hasn't got a clue about the curse. So I say I pay them a little visit. I could get us some valuable information."

Angel sighed in defeat, "Okay, but be careful."

Spike grinned, "That's one to remember - Angel telling *me* to be careful."

His laughter echoed through the library for a few moments after he'd made his exit.

Giles looked at the cozy couple. "I'll be heading home then. See you in the morning."

********

Buffy had been sound asleep in his arms for some time when Angel's preternatural hearing pricked at a noise coming from the cage.

He rose with his Slayer in his arms, walked over to Giles' office and laid her down gently onto the little sofa. Kissing her softly, he left her to check on Faith.

When he reached the cage, the brunette Slayer's eyes had just opened.

Angel saw the shock on her face as she felt the chains. Then her eyes fell on him, "You!" she yelled. "So this was *your* little sadistic plan. Oh I get it, chains must be a big turn-on for you."

Angel gazed at her seriously. "I'm sorry for the chains, Faith, but there was no other way."

"Yeah, of course. Do I get an explanation?"

"Do I owe you one?"

"Angel?" came Buffy's voice from the office.

The vampire turned and was by her side in a second. He smiled down at her, "Hey, I thought you were asleep."

"I woke up, she's got a loud voice", she explained.

Angel shrugged, "She's not very happy."

"I'll bet." She stood up and slowly approached the cage.

Faith still lay on the floor of the cage and watched the blonde Slayer with hatefilled eyes, "How does it make you feel to see me all chained up?"

"The truth? Safe." Buffy felt Angel's hand on her shoulder and relaxed a bit, "I'm sorry we had to do this, Faith. But the way you acted gave us no other choice. I don't want to have to fight you."

"Come on, B. The truth is you're *afraid* to fight me."

Buffy only shook her head, "No, I'm not afraid of you, but I don't want to fight a human, especially one I might be forced to kill. How could you do this, Faith, you're a slayer? We're supposed to protect humanity, not fight against it."

Faith chortled bitterly, "I could have gone against Angel, and followed my Slayer instincts."

"Do you know that he still thinks there's a part of you worth saving? Actually he's the *only* one who still somehow believes in you."

"Yeah, well I'm not interested in his help. He can go to Hell!" When Faith saw Buffy flinch, she laughed again, "Oh, that's right. He's already been there, thanks to you."

Angel quickly embraced Buffy from behind, her body was shivering in remembered pain and guilt. He pulled her back from in front of the cage, into Giles' office and shut the door. He cupped her face in his hands, seeing the tears shining in her eyes. "Hey, don't let her hurt you."

"But she's right, Angel. I sent you to Hell." The tears were now running freely down her cheeks.

"Shhh. It's okay, Buffy. You only did what you had to do. You did your job," Angel comforted her with words while he softly wiped the blonde Slayer's tears away with his thumbs.

She peered at him in disbelief, "We haven't ever talked about this... you don't blame me?"

"Of course not. Buffy, I'm proud of you. You had to be so strong and I...HE... didn't give you a choice."

Buffy searched his eyes but saw only truth and love in them. She took a deep breath and asked the question she'd wanted to ask him so badly for such a long time, "What was Hell like?"

She felt his body tense but didn't break eye contact with him. He thought about it for a while, then answered, "It's difficult to explain. It's a place where time and space are lost. You see faces, you hear voices but you can't put them together. They torture you physically which is painful, although somehow bearable, but they also torture you mentally. They read your thoughts and use them against you. They find your every weakness and exploit it."

Angel pointed to the sofa and Buffy sat down. He kneeled in front of her, "They used your image to torment me. They showed me what could happen to you, and after a certain amount of time I believed it to be real. It drives you insane. When ... when you found me that night in the park, after I'd returned from Hell ... well, you know. I wasn't able to think like a human anymore. I was only sourrounded by agony and pain. The only thing that kept me from complete insanity was the image of your face in my mind telling me that you loved me." He reached out with his hand and stroked her cheek ever so gently, "I love you Buffy. I would never blame you for sending me to Hell. It was my fault, or the demon's - if you like that version. In the end we were both victims of the demon. But it couldn't destroy us, could never destroy our love, we've lived through it, and that's all the thought we should give to it."

"God, I love you, Angel." Buffy had never felt so blessed with his love than on this night. And she had to admit that he was right. Their love had lived through Hell. Forgetting all about Faith, she pulled him to her for a deep and passionate kiss.

******

Giles found them shortly before daybreak both sleeping on his sofa, curled together.

Faith had also fallen asleep and Giles sighed silently, he wasn't ready to hear her comments at that early hour of the day.

Carefully, he touched Angel's shoulder and when the vampire slowly opened his eyes he apologized, "Sorry to disturb you, but it will be dawn in about half an hour. You two should probably be on your way home now."

"Giles," said Buffy sleepily.

"Good Morning, Buffy," he smiled at her.

The blonde Slayer looked at Angel, "We really better get going now."

He nodded.

"I'll see you here tonight, Giles."

The Watcher smiled and glanced at his Slayer. "I don't think we'll need you today, Buffy. But be here after sundown. I think we'd do well to create a battle-plan."

Buffy only nodded muzzily, her head resting on Angel's shoulder, "Okay," she yawned and looked over at Angel.

"Can we go to bed now?" The vampire smiled and with a last glance to Giles, they both left the library.

***

Part 17

The entire Scooby Gang, (minus Oz, who was again practicing with his band) was already assembled in the library when Angel and Buffy joined them that evening.

Giles was pleased to see that Buffy looked refreshed, at least they do actually *sleep* sometimes, he thought.

The first thing Buffy noticed was that someone had put a piece of duct tape over Faith's mouth.

Catching the blonde Slayer's questioning look, Cordelia explained, "I did it. I'm okay with helping, doing research and killing demons and things, but I draw the line at listening to "Ms. Bitch" over there."

Buffy shrugged, "I don't see a problem here." She glanced over at Faith, and felt her body shiver slightly at the unadulterated hate in the other Slayer's eyes. Angel gave her a concerned look, but she only shook her head and smiled at him reassuringly. "So, Giles. What's the plan?"

He sighed, "I had hoped that Spike would be here by now, I rather thought he could be of considerable help."

"You rang?," a voice came from the library door.

When they all turned around, they saw Spike grinning from ear to ear. "And I have some very interesting news. Our kitten here," he pointed at Faith, "She's a real cutie. She offered her help to Alanna and had the stones to ask for Blondie's head as her reward."

Angel quirked his eyebrows at the other vampire, "So, you actually talked to Alanna?."

Spike nodded, "Yeah, I did. She remembered me as not being particularly fond of you, so she had no reason to mistrust me. And, surprisingly Hillard didn't either. Obviously he has no clue that I know he killed Drusilla. They both still think I'm the 'Big Bad' vampire I used to be. Well, I am still a vampire...", he trailed of.

"So, Faith's little scheme was to kill Buffy all along... why doesn't someone explain to me again why killing *her* wasn't a good idea?" Willow's voice dripped with anger and disgust as her head tipped toward the cage where the captive Slayer laid.

Giles put a hand on her shoulder, "She won't kill anyone now. For the moment she is tightly bound and harmless. We shouldn't waste valuable time thinking about what she could have done.

"Spike," he turned to the blonde vampire: "What else did you find out?"

"They really intend to re-open the Hellmouth. That's what Hillard came for. Alanna, on the other hand, is quite preoccupied with her vengeance plan towards my Grandsire. As obsessed as his demon was with her once, it was nothing compared to her obsession with him now."

"Are you sure of that?", came Angel's doubtful voice.

"You can bet your undead ass on it. You were thinking she was the one who came for the Hellmouth in the first place, but it's Hillard. He's gone 'round the bend a bit, if you ask me. He stared into a glass orb all day long and said he was talking to ghosts."

Giles took his glasses off and rubbed the bridge of his nose. "Glass orb ... ghosts ... that rings a bell somewhere."

"Then listen to it quickly, Giles. She's going to come after Angel so we better find out soon exactly what this is all about. We've gotta stop the Hellmouth from re-opening and then deal with that demon, Alanna." Buffy's tone was urgent and Angel tried to calm her by placing an arm around her shoulders.

"No, pet," Spike threw in, "I never said she was going after Angel. What said was that she wants to take revenge."

Buffy's brow scrunched in confusion at the blond vampire's meaning, while Angel's eyes widened in fear and he tightened his grip around his lover.

Giles involuntarily took a sharp breath.

The blonde Slayer peered up at her soulmate, "What?"

Her eyes wandered to Giles' and then back to Angel, "What is it?"

Angel's voice was hoarse when he finally said, "She's going after you, Buffy. She found out where I'm the most vulnerable."

Faster than human eyes could follow, he released his love, whirled around and stormed out of the library. All the Scooby Gang saw was a flash of black and then the library doors swung open and closed again.

Buffy gave Giles a concerned glance before she ran after him, "Angel, wait."

She moved with Slayer speed and when she caught up to him, gripped his arm. "Angel, please. What's the matter, tell me?"

He spun around and Buffy was taken aback by the mixture of guilt, pain, fear and absolute panic in his eyes, but he made no response.

She held his arm in a vise-like grip and stared at him pleading, "Please Angel, you have to tell me. It scares me to see you like that." She couldn't help the tears running down her cheeks. Angel's visage became soft and he reached out with the pads of both thumbs to wipe them away. "I'm so sorry, love."

"Why? For what?" Buffy asked, baffled.

"I shouldn't be with you, Buffy. I should be stronger and stay as far away from you as I can." His eyes held immeasurable sorrow.

Buffy put the palm of her other hand gently on his chest and looked deeply into his dark brown orbs. "No," she shook her head, "You can't leave me. Why are you saying this to me?"

He shook his head angrily, "Don't you see it? Again my past is coming back to haunt us. First Darla almost killed you, then Spike and Drusilla, and now Alanna. Just being with me puts you in mortal danger continually."

Buffy drew her lips into a stubborn line, "That's not up to you to decide. I want to be with you. Angel," she lectured him softly, "I love you. I know about the danger. I'm the Slayer, I can handle this."

"That's not the point, Buffy. I know you can handle things, but you wouldn't *have* to handle them if it wasn't for me."

"I'm not gonna deny that, but it's still *my* decision to make. Look at me Angel," she cupped his cheek to force him to turn toward her, "I love you and nothing is going to change that. If you abandon me, if you walk out of my life tomorrow, I won't survive to have a life. You watch my back and you're the reason I keep fighting. You make me happier than I have ever been in my entire life and if this means I have to face danger from time to time, then so be it. I wouldn't exchange one moment of being with you for anything else in the world. So you can just forget about this stupid guilt trip you're laying on yourself. I'm telling you now, you're stuck with me. Period."

He grinned slightly, caressing her face with his palm, "God, I love you. In all your stubbornness."

She grinned back at him, "And never, *ever* forget that again. You've risked your life so often to save mine and now we're going to fight a past ghost - together." She nodded as if to confirm her words.

Angel bowed his head and had just caught her lips in a sweet kiss when they suddenly heard a voice from behind them.

"Now, isn't this a pretty picture? I have to admit you make a stunning couple."

Both the blonde Slayer and her ensouled vampire whirled around to face a beautiful, red-haired vampire.

'Alanna', Buffy thought immediately.

Angel's eyes became slits and Buffy felt the tension in him but he still kept hold of her hand when he said, "Alanna, it's been a long time."

She nodded her head slightly in greeting. "Angelus, so this is your little Slayer girlfriend. At least you haven't lost your taste in women with the regaining of your soul. She is beautiful." Her eyes were glimmering evilly as they came to rest on Buffy.

"What do you want?" Angel's voice was like ice.

"Only to see for myself, I'm sure you understand. By the way, have you seen *my* Slayer?"

"Your Slayer?", Angel asked.

"Come on, don't play games with me. I am not stupid, she's disappeared so I presume she's with you."

"And?"

"I did not come here for her. You can keep her, that annoying, impertinent little slut. I do not miss her presence at all and you *know* I've never liked competition for my prey." Saying this her eyes once again strayed to Buffy.

The Chosen One looked at her coldly and without fear, which caused the female vampire to growl slightly.

When Angel instinctively laid a protective arm around Buffy's shoulders, her growl became louder and Buffy could feel the hate coming off in waves from her body. Spike had been right, Alanna *was* obsessed with Angel.

"We will meet again," she hissed at the couple, turned on her heel and swept out of the school.

"Bitch," Buffy stated, matter-of-factly. When she realized that Angel remained staring at the school door that Alanna had just exited, she moved in front of him.

"Are you okay?"

He snapped back into reality. "Sorry. Yeah, I'm fine. Could you feel her power?"

Buffy nodded, "It gave me the wiggins. But I'm sure we can defeat her, Angel."

"I hope so," his voice was still full of doubt.

"Come on, Peaches, you've got to think positively," came Spike's voice from behind. "Don't forget that you have the advantage because of her feelings toward you. She's still so hung up on you that she's sure to be distracted in the battle."

Angel turned to face his grandchilde, "Since when did you become a strategist?"

Spike shrugged, "It's only rational thinking, mate. And besides, I speak from experience."

His grandsire nodded understandingly, Dru's escapades had clouded Spike's judgement on more than one occasion.

The blond vampire suddenly grinned, "And then, don't forget that I'm on your side and she doesn't have a clue about it."

He smiled at the couple and with new optimism they all went back into the library.

...

Part 18

//Buffy, Angel and the entire Scooby Gang were approaching a large building.

They decided to separate to enter it through different doors. Buffy saw vampires, lots of vampires standing in a circle. In the middle, a tall, black-haired man sat at a table looking into a glass orb. He was talking but when Buffy was able to look closer she realized that he was chanting - a spell. Behind him, with one hand on his shoulder, stood Alanna, her flame-colored hair cascading down her back - she was wickedly beautiful and her eyes were full of vicious delight.

Buffy stepped closer and when Alanna saw her, the vampire's lips twisted cruelly,

"Ah, the Slayer. You are just in time for the ritual."

Buffy gaped at her in total confusion, she didn't understand. Then the vampire circle opened and her eyes were able to discern another person, lying inside the ring, handcuffed. It was Angel! All of a sudden, the glass orb began glowing and a red light appeared. Buffy tried to reach out for Angel but she was unable to move, then Angel turned his head and ... laughed. Buffy's heart skipped a beat and she held her breath, she would never, ever forget the cold look in the demon's eyes. Then the Slayer screamed.//

"Noooooo."

Angel woke with a start, upon hearing this scream of despair beside him. Immediately, he reached out to Buffy. "Buffy, love, wake up. Please, darling, you have to wake up."

She felt strong hands on her shoulders shaking her gently and then cool lips touching her cheeks. She opened her eyes and looked directly into the dark, warm and loving orbs of her soulmate. Concern was written all over his face. "Buffy, are you alright?"

She shook her head, "Oh, god, Angel." The Chosen One wrapped her arms around his neck and pressed her body tightly to his.

Feeling her body quake with shivers, Angel held her close and gently rocked her like a child. Slowly the shivering stopped and Buffy pulled away.

Angel stroked her cheek with the back of his hand, "What was the matter, my love?"

"A... a nightmare. Oh, Angel, it was so real."

"Shhh. It was only a bad dream."

"I know, but as we've seen in the past, my dreams tend to come true."

"Do you want to tell me?", he asked softly.

She closed her eyes and swallowed, then took a deep breath and willed her voice to remain steady while she told him about her dream.

When she had finished, Angel's eyes were full of horror, "I'm so sorry."

"What? No, Angel, no. Don't blame yourself again. I had a dream, right. And HE was in it, NOT YOU. NOT YOU."

He sighed, "I know. However, I think you should tell Giles."

"Of course. I'll tell him as soon as I see him. He's due to take the next shift watching over Faith this morning. I hope Oz is okay."

******

Oz peered at Giles through sleepy eyes when the librarian entered the library that morning. "Hey Giles. Good to see you."

Giles nodded and turned his gaze to the book cage, "How went the night?"

"Talkative for a time. But quiet later on." He pointed to the tranquilizer gun laying beside him on the floor.

Giles eyes widened, "You were forced to shoot her?"

"Yeah. Even a werewolf's patience can run out, you know."

"I can't believe such a thing. You were instructed to watch her, not shoot her." The watcher's voice was angry now.

Oz only shrugged and Giles continued, "The dart contained the usual werewolf dosage, I can only hope it won't damage her system."

"She's a Slayer, don't forget that. I tried to persuade her to be quiet, more than once. I'm sure she'll be alright, but I truly hope she'll be sleeping for quite some time - only for your sake."

He stood up and gave the Watcher a long last look, yawning widely. "I'll see you tonight," with this statement, he left.

Giles looked at Faith's sleeping form and sighed. It was such a shame, she was an intelligent girl and a strong Slayer. She could have been of great assistance. The Watcher fervently prayed that they would find a way to bring her back into the fold.

Startling the Brit out of his thoughts, Willow and Buffy entered the library together, "Giles," they both greeted in unison.

"Willow, Buffy? What are you two doing here this early?"

The redhead blushed slightly, "Uhm .. I wanted to meet Oz."

"You've only just missed him. He left a few minutes ago."

"Oh ... we know, I mean we met him outside," she blushed a bit more and Giles smiled inwardly.

Buffy yawned and Willow glanced over to the cage. "Oz told us he shot her full of sleepy-time medicine." She grinned, "Faith must've been pretty bad, nothing usually gets to Oz."

Giles sighed, "Obviously. So - why are you here?"

Buffy slumped down into a chair and yawned again.

Giles frowned, "Perhaps you should have stayed in bed."

The blonde Slayer agreed, "Yeah, tell me about it. But unfortunately I had a dream and Angel insisted I tell you about it first thing."

"A d-dream?" The Watcher was instantly alarmed.

"I think so," Buffy answered, "And it was a pretty weird one."

Willow took a seat as well and Buffy related what she'd seen. She left nothing out about Alanna, Hillard, the spell and Angelus.

Willow's eyes widened in shock and Giles swallowed hard, "Did it feel prophetic?"

"Well," Buffy said, "I SO don't want it to come true, but I'm afraid that it could. Seems like every time something bad is going down, I'm treated to these wacky psychic dreams. Giles, we have to find a way to protect Angel," her voice became a plea and her gaze ticked over at Willow. "Maybe there's some sort of counter-spell or a ward, a protection or ... but please, I can't lose him again. And I'm not sure that Angel could bear this, I mean reverting back to his demon. He's still suffering from the last time."

"Buffy," Giles began: "We have no way of knowing if the dream is prophetic."

The Slayer leapt up from her seat and snarled at him, "Yeah, we don't know, but it really freaked me out, Giles. The last time I dreamed Angel was gonna die he lost his soul. I don't wanna take any chances this time."

"It'll be okay, Buffy, I'll try to find a spell for Angel." Willow laid a hand on Buffy's arm and smiled at her reassuringly.

Buffy gave her a grateful nod and turned to face Giles once again. "How am I supposed to concentrate on the fight if I'm so wigged about his safety?"

"You can't ever be sure of your demonic boyfriend, huh?" a voice came from behind and the three spun around. Faith sat in the cage grinning maliciously. "I gotta tell ya B., I'm looking forward meeting Angelus. He sounds damn sexy ...from what I've heard."

"Shut up," Willow yelled at her. The wiccan's eyes strayed back to the gun, "Or would you like another shot?"

Faith smirked, "Do what ya gotta do. But I had some wicked sweet dreams of fucking her undead boytoy soul-less. And B., he is really fine, no wonder you were suffering without him."

"That's it!" Willow exclaimed, she stood, grabbed the gun, aimed and shot. Bulls-eye.

"Willow..." Giles tried to reason with her, but to no avail. The deed was done in an instant.

The Slayer's best friend met his gaze with her 'resolve face'. "Don't. Say. One. Word."

Giles could do nothing but sigh. Then he addressed his Slayer, "Buffy. Xander and Cordelia will be here in about an hour and then we'll all try to find some sort of protection for Angel, alright?"

Willow nodded her assent. "Yes, and for Spike, too." When the other two stared at her, she explained, "Hey, he's our ally, we can't afford to lose him either and if we find something to protect Angel, it should protect him as well."

Giles agreed, "Right. We mustn't forget Spike. His soul-less alter-ego could be a real liability at this point."

Part 19

Xander yawned loudly and glanced at the clock, already half past seven, he thought. It was already dark outside and since he and shortly after him Cordelia had arrived they had been researching protection spells that would also work for vampires. Willow had instructed them what she was looking for and they'd gone to work immediately.

Xander had only left for an hour to get dognuts and now they were waiting for pizza to be delivered. "I am hungry," he exclaimed in an annoyed voice. "I cannot believe that I am spending a whole day of my christmas break with searching for a spell for dead-boys."

Cordelia rolled her eyes: "It has to be hard to do something for someone who is not you."

"Hear who's talking," he shot back. "The queen of compassion!"

"Why don't you just leave and save us from your company," she suggested.

"Stop it," Willow shouted. "I know we are all tired, but that is the last thing we all need. Buffy is freaking out, because she's so afraid. Just think you're doing it for her, Xand. She loves Angel and if something should happen to him," she paused and swallowed hard, feeling the fear of a possible scenario. "Let's just hope this is SO not going to happen. Because I am sure none of us could help her then."

Giles looked up from his desk in his office and glanced to the three teenagers in the library. Willow was talking about his deepest fear. What would happen if something should happen to the vampire? Would Buffy be able to go on? Sure she had managed to live without him once, but barely. And it was different now. Now they had experienced a true relationship. Giles had seen her relaxing in her lover's arms, trusting him without limitations. And he'd seen the despair in her eyes the morning he had been missing. No, he was not so sure if she'd manage to go on without him. Besides that, Angel was a powerful ally and a rebirth of Angelus was something he wasn't looking forward to. He looked back at his book more determined than ever to find a protection spell for the vampire.

"We are her friends, Will. We can help her. Don't you think you give Dead-boy too much credit?," he heard Xander ask. Would the boy ever understand?

"I don't think so," the red-head replied. "Sure, we are her friends, but her connection with Angel is different and is much deeper than any of us understands. I can only imagine, what's between the two of them." Suddenly she smiled and gazed to the door where Oz just had entered the library.

He went straight over to his girlfriend and gave her a kiss on the cheek: "I like it when you look all determined," he grinned at her. "Can I help?"Yes, could you look through that book," she pushed a very old one in front of him. "We're looking for protection spells that work on vampires."

"Okay," he nodded, sat down and began to read immediately.

"If he is so important to her?" Xander began again, still slightly annoyed.

"Why isn't she here to help us with research?"

"Because she was working out, Xand," came Buffy's voice from the door. The slayer accompanied by both ensouled vampires entered the library. She looked around: "Where's Giles?" she wanted to know.

"In his office," Willow answered and nodded in his direction.

"I see," Buffy took a seat next to Cordelia and looked expectantly at the witch: "Any success with research?"

"Only feeling tired and hungry," Xander complained again.

"We've already ordered pizza," Cordy said and glared at him with a shut-up-or-I'll-strangle-you look.

"We're still searching for it," Willow assured her. "There are some more books to go through." She looked at Angel: "Maybe you could help too."

"Sure," he replied and took a book she held up for him. He looked at her for a moment: "Thank you," he said simply.

She smiled: "Any time. That's what friends do for each other."

He stared at her, then he nodded and began to read his book. Willow glanced over to Buffy and saw a grateful smile on her face.

"I could help too," Spike offered, feeling a little bit out of place as nobody seemed to notice his presence. Well, he couldn't really blame them. Last time he'd been in Sunnyhell he'd tried to kill Willow and Xander. Suddenly he remembered something: "How's slayer-girl doing," he glanced over to Faith, who was still bound and behind the cage.

"She's still asleep," Giles told him. "Oz shot her tonight with the tranquilizer gun and Willow did the same in the morning. She hasn't come out of it, yet. I just hope they did no damage to her," he shot the werewolf and the red-head a look.

"I don't care," Willow defended herself. "She is crazy and I like her much better that way. Don't expect me to feel guilty if there's any damage."

Buffy grinned slightly. The witch's Faith-issues were obviously stronger than her own. Not that she blamed her for it. The brunette slayer was dangerous and she had tried to kill Angel.

"Well, uhm ..." Giles was slightly taken aback. "Spike, actually there is something you could do. Could you go for the magic shop and bring me these things," he handed a list to him. "I would send Xander, but I don't want any of them out there without protection after dark. Not with Alanna around here."

"Sure," the blonde vampire nodded. "Is there a new owner?" he asked cautiously.

"Why?," the watcher wanted to know.

"Just nosy," Spike shrugged and left.

"He killed the former owner, drank her dry," Buffy explained dryly when she saw the confusion on the Brit's face.

"And again I ask, why do we want to protect him," Xander sighed. The pizza still wasn't there and he'd already eaten all his chocolate bars.

Nobody took notice of him. Suddenly Oz looked up: "Guys, I think that might be something. It talks about ankering the soul to the body to make it untouchable for spells. Maybe that's it."

"Oh Oz," Willow's face lightened up like a christmas tree. "You're so smart. Let me see." She looked into his book, their cheeks touching in the process. Oz smiled slightly.

"This is in Latin," she explained. "It is a ritual to be executed and it makes the soul untouchable for 24 hours. It works for vampires too. So if we do this tomorrow afternoon, Angel and Spike will be safe for the night. Or so I hope. Giles, please would you read it too." She took the book and handed it to the watcher. He scanned the lines and smiled.

"Yes, you're right. Buffy, I am positive, this will keep Angel's soul safe from Hillard's spells." He looked at his slayer reassuringly.

Buffy let out a sigh of relief and grabbed her lover's hand. He took it and planted a soft kiss on it's palm. Their eyes spoke without words and for the first time Xander began to blieve that Willow might have been right about their special connection.

"Thank you," Buffy whispered with tears in her eyes. "That means so much to us." She felt so relieved as if she'd thrown a ton off her shoulders. Angel would be safe and everything would be okay.

The same moment the library door opened and a young man entered carrying pizzas. Xander stood up, took them from him and looked at Giles. The watcher sighed and reached in his pocket to pay for it.

The boy grinned: "Now. Dead-boy's soul is safe. I say we celebrate."

"Xander," Willow groaned. "Eating pizzas is a form of celebration for you?"

"Well, it's better than researching non-stop. Plus I am so hungry."

The others rolled their eyes when he opened the first and grabbed a large piece. Buffy took one herself, stood up and placed herself in Angel's lap, leaning back at his chest: "You know. I suddenly feel quite cheery," she grinned and took a bite.

Angel grinned behind her and planted a kiss on the top of her head. She turned her head and grinned back, chewing the whole time.

"God, I feel sick," came Faith's voice from behind them.

"And there goes our celebration," Xander sighed and took his second piece of pizza.

Giles approached the cage and looked at the brunette slayer: "How are you?" he asked.

"As I'd have a hangover," she replied and groaned. "I never thought my head could hurt so much." She glared over at Oz and Willow. "Thanks to you both," she growled.

"Are you hungry?" the watcher asked.

She nodded: "Starving."

"Xander, would you bring some pizza for Faith?"

The boy's eyes widened: "Why the hell should we feed a psycho?"

"Xander," Giles said sharply.

"Alright, alright," he said, taking two pieces and handing them to Giles.

Buffy stood up and walked over to the cage. "Let me do it, Giles," she said, while opening the cage. "Eat, and hold your tongue," she ordered the other slayer. Faith only smirked at her and took a bite from the piece Buffy held in front of her mouth. Surprisingly she ate in silence. After swallowing the last bit, she asked: "Can I have some drink too?"

Xander handed the blonde slayer a can of coke and she held it to Faith's mouth.

After taking two long gulps, she grinned: "At least you're not going to starve me to death."

Buffy stood up and left the cage, Giles closed the door behind her.

"Are you scared, B?," Faith spoke again. "I bet you are. For you and your sappy vamp. God, how I would love to see him turn to dust." She shrugged: "Well, I think Alanna will take care of this. And she will screw him first, probably she'll let you watch it."

Willow gave Buffy a concerned gaze, but the slayer only shrugged and went back to her place on Angel's lap: "Ignore her," she said to her friend. "Only hot air."

Giles stared a little bit longer at the brunette slayer. The hate radiating from her was almost palpable. What a shame, he thought again. Sighing he turned and joined the others at the table. "Alright. Now that we have the spell, I think we should all go home, have a good night's sleep and meet right after darkness tomorrow evening. Then we will cast the spell for Spike and Angel and then it's show time."

Buffy nodded: "Good idea."

"I've got your stuff, watcher," Spike exclaimed when he returned to the library holding a large bag in his hand.

"Willow, could you please check if you need anything else for that particular spell and get it tomorrow if needed," Giles asked the red-head.

"Sure," the witch nodded and took her boyfriend's hand. "We're off then. See you all tomorrow." When she passed Buffy she laid a hand on her friend's shoulder.

"All will be alright, you'll see."

The slayer nodded gratefully and Angel tightened his hold around her waist.

"What's going on?" Spike wanted to know.

"Buffy, Angel, you can fill in Spike later. I think you all should leave now. Wait, someone has to stay with Faith."

"I will do it," the blonde vampire offered. "You can fill me in tomorrow. It's not that something's going to happen before tomorrow night."

"And we trust him because, " Xander demanded.

"We can trust him," Angel said quietly exchanging a short look with the other vampire.

The others nodded and left.

Spike was alone with Faith. He approached the cage and looked at her for a moment. She smirked at him and he sighed. This would be a long night.

Part 20

Buffy sank exhausted in the arms of her lover. Their bodies clung to each other and the slayer was breathless for some minutes. She had never felt so intense and she'd never felt so deeply connected to the man she loved. She had almost been able to feel their souls touching the moments their bodies joined. It was as if she was leaving earth and flying to heaven.

She knew a part of that overwhelming experience was created through a deep fear it could be the last time they would love each other that way. Buffy had been feeling almost carefree for a while after she'd heard about the protection spell, but the moment they were alone in their bedroom she could sense Angel's doubts. It wasn't that he didn't trust Willow and Giles, he trusted them. The problem was he didn't trust himself or his demon for that matter. He had experienced the power of his demon first hand and had watched him gaining control over his body - helpless.

Buffy knew that he would never admit it, but ever since she'd told him about her dream he had been quiet and brooding. He had tried to smile at her and behaved normally, but she knew. The slayer had tried to convince him to stay away from the battle, but he would not listen to her. They had yelled at each other actually, so loud that Spike came down asking what the hell was going on. Deep inside she'd known that he would never stay away when she was in danger, especially if he felt responsible for it.

She felt his lips on her face, he was still lying on her. "Are you okay?" he whispered after a while.

"Yeah," she whispered back. "I thought I could touch your soul," she admitted almost shyly.

She could feel him smile in the darkness, his lips were so near to her face. "I know," he replied. "I am really glad, I cannot lose it again, because it would have certainly happened." The moment the words were out of his mouth both became quiet again. Buffy could feel his body tense for a second and she could sense the effort it made for him to relax again. She knew he tried it for her and she loved him for it. But she wouldn't let him bury everything, not anymore, they belonged together and she would make sure they would share their worries.

"You do not have to pretend you are alright," she said quietly. She felt him tense again and then he rolled off of her so that he laid right at her side. He reached out with his hand and entwined his fingers with hers.

"I ... I cannot become him again. I know they think the spell is safe, but what if..." his voice trailed off, he wasn't able to finish the sentence.

"We will curse you again," she said firmly, tightening her hold on his hand.

"Buffy..."

"No. Don't even try to ask me that. I could never do that, not now. Angel, I love you. You are my life. You cannot ask me to do that. And don't even try to ask anybody else, Spike for example."

He was slient for a while, too stunned that she had guessed his thoughts.

"Promise me, you won't do that," her voice came again. "You will not ask Spike or Giles or Xander to stake you if something should happen. It won't by the way, because I trust Willow's spell."

He couldn't help but smile at her words. "I promise," he said finally, rolling over and planting a kiss on her cheek. "I love you, Buffy."

"I know," she replied. "I know you do. I can feel it, every second. And it keeps me going on, it gives me strength. So you just have to be near me. Without you my life force would be drained in no time."

He reached out with his other hand and pulled her to his chest. "You should sleep now," he told her, gently stroking her hair. "You will need your strength tomorrow night."

"You too." She yawned: "Hmmm, I am tired. Love you."

"You too," he replied.

"Mmmm," was her last comment before sleep engulfed her.

******

Giles entered the library in the morning and found Spike sleeping on the sofa in his office where the vampire had draped the windows with some blankets he had obviously found somewhere. Faith was asleep as well and the watcher thanked all gods for it. Morning wasn't his time and adding Faith's biting comments to it wasn't something he wanted to face at the moment.

He slightly touched the vampire's shoulder and his eyes opened at once. "Watcher," he said, his voice sounding slightly annoyed. "I'm stuck here for a while," he explained. "So I thought I make it as comfortable as possible under these," he glanced around "primitive circumstances."

"Thanks for the compliment," Giles replied dryly. Then he nodded towards the cage: "How was the night?"

Spike sat up and grinned slightly: "Well, she can swore in ways that would even make me blush if I had circulation. But she calmed down and later we had an interesting talk."

The watcher raised an eyebrow: "Really? What about?"

"I think Peaches is right," the vampire began, leaning back on the sofa. "She wants to be a good girl. She just doesn't know how to control the rage and jealousy she's got inside of her."

Giles nodded slowly: "I see. What convinced you?"

Spike shrugged: "Just a feeling. Some things she said, she envies the little blonde, but she admires her too. She wants to be like her instead of accepting who she is. Her life was so screwed up that she wants to forget about it, tried to be someone else and it isn't working. Now she's angry."

"How did you become a psychologist?" The watcher looked at the vampire in wonder. There was certainly more to that person he had to admit.

"Nah," he snorted. "Just life experience. I've been around angry people and vampires for quite some time."

"I truly hope you and Angel are right," Giles said thoughtfully. "I don't want to give up on Faith. She's a bright girl and I would hate to loose her. How come she's asleep. You didn't shoot her, did you?"

"No," Spike grinned suddenly. "She just had to make the experience that vampires have stamina and not only when it's about sex."

"What?" the watcher looked slightly shocked.

"Don't worry. We only talked. Well, she began and then I talked." His grin grew even wider. "I've been alive for a while and have some stories to tell. Let's just say, bed time stories do also work for slayers."

Giles stared at him for a moment and then chuckled slightly.

Spike closed his eyes. "I am sleeping again if you don't mind. I need my beauty sleep and we have to be alert tonight."

"Alright," Giles sighed. "I am closing the door and will read some more."

But the vampire didn't hear him anymore.

*****

Spike was standing inside a circle Willow had created before. They had already cast the spell on Angel and now it was the other vampire's turn.

Cordelia wrinkled her nose: "Why on earth does this magic stuff always have to be so smelly," she complained.

The others ignored her while the red-head started to chant again. After she was finished the candle that was standing behind the vampire extinguished. A yellow light went through his body and then he dropped to the ground.

He opened his eyes again and looked at the witch: "That's it?"

She nodded: "Yes. Now your soul should be safe for 24 hours."

Spike stood up, left the circle and shook slightly his shoulders as if he had to get rid of an uneasy feeling.

"Alright," Giles spoke and everyone looked at him. "The fact that they want to open the hellmouth makes it quite certain that they'll come here. So we just stay here and wait. I want all of you, Willow, Oz, Cordelia and Xander to check that you wear a cross, that you have holy water and stakes on you."

"But please don't spill that stuff over me," Spike reminded them. "It kinda burns."

"We will try to avoid that," the watcher replied dryly. "Alright. We have no idea how many of them will be here, but I think it will be realistic to expect 15 or 20 vampires plus Alanna and Hillard." He glanced over to the cage and sighed: "It is a pity we cannot count on her, it would be much easier." Faith was again asleep. The others had convinced him to shoot her one last time - to make sure she wouldn't interfere the worst possible moment.

"Giles have faith," Willow smiled at him reassuringly. "We are prepared. We've been through worse."

The watcher sighed and exchanged a concerned glance with Angel. He could see the same doubts in the vampire's face and prayed that the red-head would be right.

Part 21

Nervous glances from everyone exept maybe the two vampires and the slayer, who seemed uncommonly quiet, almost irritably relaxed, were the main entertainment throughout the night. Giles had told them that he expected the attack sometime before midnight and now each of them was looking at the ticking seconds again and again. They didn't speak at all and it made the atmosphere dark and dangerous.

There was a tension in the air that was only interrupted by Cordelia's nail filing or a chewing noise when Xander stuffed nervously some chocolate or chips in his mouth.

Giles sat on a chair in the library and watched the rest of his little group, he could not help but feel a little bit proud of them, especially the human teenagers. None of them had to be here, they all had offered their help without hesitation, they might act childish and in Xander's fact stupid from time to time but they were more courageous than they would ever know. The watcher knew that part of this was their youth, which led to a denial of death although every one of them had had their experiences with it before. But young people did not think about dying and so deep inside they strongly believed they would survive.

Xander sat opposite to Giles, his eyes resting on Cordelia, his mouth still moving, chewing some disgusting chocolate bar, Giles was sure of it.

The brunette, the watcher had once thought to be superficial and snobby and who he had come to believe to have more hidden depths he'd possibly ever know, was filing her nails again. It seemed a careless gesture but Giles could see that she tried to fight her nervousness by keeping herself somewhat busy.

Willow sat on her boyfriend's lap, her head on his shoulder, her eyes closed. Oz's eyes were closed as well and his face wore the usual neutral expression. Both seemed realxed and content, but the white knuckles of their entwined hands told another story.

Spike, the most amazing new addition to this group, sat on the stairs and was staring into space. Was he thinking about the wizard who had caused the end of his lover's unllife? Had he still loved her after he'd regained his soul? How were the feelings of the soul when the body was still harbouring the demon as well? Giles suddenly felt that he knew nothing about vampires and made a mental note to have a long talk with Angel in the near future. If they should survive the night.

Buffy and Angel were nowhere to be seen. Some time ago they had disappeared between the bookshelves. Giles could understand that they wanted to be alone. He sighed and looked at the clock again, almost eleven.

*******

The slayer and her vampire were standing in a hidden corner of the library in a tight embrace. None of them knew how long they were standing like that. Buffy's head was leaned against Angel's chest, while his head was laying on top of hers. They wanted to be near each other, feel each other and give each other strength.

Suddenly the vampire's eyes shot open. Buffy, who felt the tension in his body, pulled back slightly and looked up at him: "Angel?," she asked in a whisper.

"They're coming," he informed her. "I can sense them. Strong magic sourrounds them," he added.

She took a deep breath: "Alright. Let's go down." She pulled from his embrace and was about to turn, when his hand held her back.

"Buffy, never forget I love you."

She looked at him for a moment: "And I love you." She leaned forward and kissed him gently on the lips. "And now," she looked deep in his eyes, "let's kick their asses."

He nodded and both went down to join their friends.

******

When Buffy and Angel came down to the main part of the library everyone could hear the footsteps approaching them. Willow's eyes were wide: "It sounds like an army," she whispered and her voice was loaded with fear, although she tried to be brave.

"I say there are about 20, what do you think mate," Spike asked and looked at his grand-sire.

Angel nodded: "I'd say so. Can you feel the magic?"

"I can," the blonde vampire replied. "It's quite strong." They exchanged a concerned glance, they both thought the same. Would the spell be safe, would it secure their souls? Soon they would know.

Buffy who had seen the expression on their faces gave her lover's hand a last reassuring squeeze.

The same moment the doors of the library were pushed open. Two younger vampires were the first to enter the room. They held the doors and the rest of them appeared. When all the minions were in, their masters entered.

Like a queen Alanna walked on the arm of her companion. They were a strange pair. Hillard was dark and on the small side, if Angel wouldn't feel the magic around him one would have thought he was not very impressing. Alanna on the other hand had obviously dressed for the night. She wore a pale blue robe that reached to the ground, her red hair was left open and reached almost her hip. She'd used makeup and didn't look as pale as a vampire usually would. If you could forget the evilness in her eyes you had to be impressed.

She smiled almost gracefully at the people and the vampires that had waited for her: "Good evening." She removed her hand from the arm of her lover and looked at Angel: "Angelus. Do you like?" She moved closer to the dark haired vampire and put her hands at her hips. Then she suddenly saw Spike: "William?," her face was showing confusion. Then it hit her: "I should have known. You have the same pityful eyes as your grand-sire." She laughed out loud and looked at Hillard: "Another soul-boy, my darling." She turned back again: "Well, the more fun for us."

Suddenly all the cheerfulness disappeared from her face. It changed almost immediately and she snarled at her minions: "Adrian. Bring the bag to your master and you others. Take them!"

Hearing the commando the vampires jumped forward and soon they were all in a fight. Most of the vampires were younger and not so experienced and so the two vampires and the slayer dusted five or six of them very quickly.

Alanna who was busy at first with watching her lover to set up his magic circle cried out in fury: "You fools!" She turned towards Adrian: "Get one of the humans. Alive!"

They were all to engaged in struggling with the vampires to realise that said Adrian was approaching Willow and before anyone could react he had taken her and was now holding a knife to her throat.

"Everybody stop," Alanna cried.

Her minions stepped back and everyone stared at her. Buffy and Oz saw Willow and made a step in her direction.

"Come closer, slayer and she dies," the red-haired vampiress hissed. The slayer and the werewolf froze dead in tracks. Suddenly Alanna's face changed back and she smiled again, while Hillard seemed to have finished all his preparations for the ritual: "Now, my dears. There is my deal," she looked at Angel and Spike: "Your souls against her life. What do you think?"

"Forget about it, vamp-girl," Buffy spat at her. "Why should we do that, you are here to open the hellmouth, if this happens we are all lost anyway."

"Well, if you think so little slayer," Alanna's smile grew even wider, "then you can watch your little friend here die." She approached Willow, and licked the side of her neck. The red-head closed her eyes and tried to control the panic inside of her, but she failed. If Adrian wouldn't have had her in a tight grip, she would have sank to the floor, her legs shivered so hard.

"Stop," Angel's voice sounded through the library. He looked at Spike and nodded very slightly. "We're doing it." He glanced shortly at Buffy and gave her a reassuring nod. They would soon know about Willow's spell.

The slayer wanted to scream and hold him back, but she could see the determined look in his eyes and knew that nothing she would say would prevent him from doing what in his eyes was his duty.

"Angel, I don't think...," Giles tried to interfere, but was cut off by the vampire.

"Giles, please. I have to do it."

The watcher looked at him for a moment and then nodded. He understood.

"Very well," Alanna nodded and pointed at the circle behind her. "Step in," she commanded. "As soon as the ritual is finished I will let her go."

Angel didn't look at her, he and Spike passed her and stepped into the circle and both closed their eyes. Buffy grabbed the back of a chair and squeezed it so tightly that she heard a slight crack.

And then the little black-haired vampire began to chant. It was a strange language, he was looking at a glass orb, the same Spike had seen before. From time to time he was burning something or throwing some herbs into a bowl. Cordelia wrinkled her nose again, but didn't comment it this time.

A green light appeared above the vampires, it seemed to stay like this when it suddenly changed to red and entered their bodies. Their eyes glowed red and then they dropped to the ground unconscious.

Everything was quiet in the library. Alanna looked at the two vampires still laying in the circle and nodded at Adrian. She felt superior and would take care of the girl later. Immediately he removed the blade from Willow's throat and shoved her into Oz's arms.

Then the red-haired vampiress turned to Spike and Angel who seemed to wake up the same moment. Buffy and the rest of the gang held their breath. The blonde vampire was the first to open his eyes. Alanna smiled at him and greeted: "Welcome home William."

Spike stood up glanced quickly at his grand-sire and then looked at the vampire in front of him: "Sorry to disappoint you my dear, but obviously your little magic friend here has lost his touch." With this he patted Alanna's shoulder and walked over to stand beside the humans, who let out the breath they had been holding. Willow's protection spell had worked. Buffy sent her friend a grateful look and the witch smiled.

That was the moment the slayer heard the laughter and froze.

Too relieved to see Spike's soul still firm in place they hadn't paid attention to Angel for a moment. He stood in the middle of the circle, his back still to the others, but he began to laugh. Alanna's face was immediately lightening up in a smile of pure delight.

This laughter Buffy would never forget. Her hand flew to her mouth, her eyes filled with tears and a look of pure horror was on her face. Willow's gaze was full of confusion as were the ones of the rest of the group. How was this possible?

Then Angel turned. His face had changed and Buffy looked into the yellow vampire eyes. They showed no emotion and she felt her heart break into a million pieces. Tears were now streaming down her face and she gave Giles a look of pure despair, while her mouth almost inaudibly formed the words: "Oh god."

Part 22

Angel had almost immediately seen that they had no chance against the combined forces of Alanna and her powerful wizard, whoes magic was sourrounding him and his lover with an aura of invincibility. But as sure as that he had also seen the looks Hillard was giving his lover and Angel had had enough experience with obsession to recognize it when it was shown.

So he had decided to try to beat them with rage. Hillard's rage. Caused by jealousy.

Angel's soul was still safe, but he knew it was their only chance and he prayed Buffy would forgive him what he was about to do. Everything was depending on the fact that he would be successful in fooling them all. Alanna was far too dangerous and intelligent and Angel couldn't risk to let Buffy know about this little act. The look on her face when he finally faced her tore his heart apart. He wanted nothing more than to take her in his arms and to assure her everything would be alright, but he had to go through with it, all their lives were depending on his success.

Turning away his gaze from the tortured features of the slayer he looked at Alanna and pulled her roughly in his arms. "Now, my dear. It has been a long time," he did his best to sound exactly like his demon and it worked. He was shocked by himself.

"It really has," she grinned at him and almost purred in delight. "Welcome back," she whispered and rubbed herself at his body. Angel had to suppress the sudden need to vomit and turned his attentions to Hillard instead in whoes eyes he saw pure rage.

Angel grabbed Alanna's head and kissed her brutally on the lips, blood was dripping from them when they finally parted, but she still purred and he was sure Hillard would hear it.

And it worked. Angel had been a vampire himself for too long to be mistaken about their emotions. Feeling rage a vampire would soon loose it's focus and only act on instinct.

With a loud noise the glass orb smashed to the ground and Hillard jumped in full game-face at Alanna, to pull her away from the taller vampire. "YOU BETRAYED ME, YOU USED ME," he yelled and grabbed her forcefully, staring at her with pure jealousy in his yellow vampire eyes.

The moment the orb hit the ground Angel felt the magic sourrounding Hillard and Alanna break as well. That was what he had hoped. Seeing that Buffy was still frozen and seemed unable to move or act, he produced a stake which was hidden behind his back and shoved it into Alanna's back, who was so occupied with her lover to pay attention to anything else. The vampire was dust within seconds.

Hillard stared at Angel, his expression a mixture of disbelief and rage. "YOU," he cried and launched himself on the dark haired vampire, who was thrown to the ground by the impact of the attack. Fortunately Spike had recovered from his shock almost immediately and driven by his wish to take revenge for his former lover he sent the stake home.

The library was frozen for a moment, then it came to life. The minion vampires fled in fear. Spike lend his gran-sire a hand and helped him to his feet. His face had changed back to his human features and for a short moment he looked at Giles, whoes face was still tense and concerned but began to relax.

Willow threw her arms around Oz and began to cry in relief, while Cordelia and Xander exchanged glances.

Suddenly they heard a muffled cry and the slayer sank to the ground her body shook with sobs and her face was hidden behind her hands. Angel was at her side in an instant, kneeling down he cautiously reached out with his arm. At the touch of his hand, Buffy threw herself in his arms and cried silently at his chest, clinging to him like her life-line, stroking his head and neck again and again as to make sure he was real. "I-I th-th-thought, I'd l-lost you, oh god, Angel," she said between sobs.

"Shhh," he tried to comfort her. "I am so sorry, I had to do this. But it was the only way. Please my love, don't cry. It will all be okay. Shhh."

Over the head of his love he could see Giles, who had approached the couple and was looking at him: "Why did you do it?" the watcher wanted to know.

"There was magic around them, Giles. Hillard must have used a spell to make them unkillable. I could sense it and I immediately knew that only if he himself would break the orb it would break the spell. I had to get him angry, so he would loose his focus, his aim," Angel explained while he was still holding Buffy as close as possible. She seemed to calm down now, he could feel the trembling wasn't as bad anymore.

"I really thought you had lost your soul," Willow admitted.

"I had to make you believe it. If only one of you would have had doubts Alanna would have known it. I knew her pretty well, she wasn't one to be fooled easily," he replied, planting a soft kiss on the slayer's head. Her body had stopped shivering and she was slightly pulling back to look at him. She watched his face for a long time, then she reached out and stroked his cheek.

"Can you ever forgive me?" he asked hesitantly.

"I love you, I told you that before. And when I thought ... I tried to remember how much you love me." She took a deep breath: "You did what you had to do to keep us all safe. There is nothing to forgive, we all owe you our lives."

"No," he shook his head emphatically. "If it wasn't for me, you wouldn't have been forced to face Alanna at all."

"Maybe, maybe not," Giles said, his face thoughtful. "If Angelus hadn't made her a vampire then maybe someone else and she and Hillard would have tried to open the hellmouth nevertheless and we wouldn't have had you to save us."

Spike stepped over to his grand-sire and laid a hand on his shoulder: "He's right, mate. Didn't you tell me it was no use to dwell on the past. You should try to act that way yourself."

"See," Buffy said, stroking his cheek. "Nobody blames you," she assured him and sent a warning look towards Xander (who was standing behind her lover), that told him he shouldn't dare to say one word. The boy raised a hand in mocked defense and gave her a smile to assure her he had no such intentions.

"Maybe you two should get up now," Cordelia's voice came from behind Willow. "I cannot see how this can be very comfortable. Besides the ground is covered in vampire ash, that's just gross."

Despite the things that just had happened everybody laughed and the lovers stood up, Buffy never loosening her grip on Angel's hand.

"Right," Giles looked at the people, the slayer and the two vamires. "Cordelia has a point. We have to clean up the mess, but I think we can do that later or better tomorrow." He looked at the watch. "It's only five minutes until the new year."

"Yes," Xander exclaimed. "And we are still alive."

"And Alanna and Hillard are history," Willow grinned.

"And it is no full moon," Oz added dryly. "That means I can celebrate with my girl," he took the red-head's hand and smiled at her.

"And I was working for the good guys, a strange feeling," Spike looked at Angel and they both exchanged a knowing look.

Everyone was waiting for Cordelia to make a comment but it never came. They all turned at her and saw that she was staring in a certain direction. They followed her gaze and froze in shock. The book - cage was empty, Faith was gone.

"What the hell," the blonde vampire exclaimed.

"Oh my god," Willow's eyes were wide.

"I never saw it happen," Xander said. "Did anyone of you ...no, obviously not."

"Dammit," Giles kicked his foot against the nearest chair. "Now we have a rogue slayer run free again."

Buffy surprised everyone by saying: "Well, that only prooves that the hellmouth is never boring." When the others stared at her, she shrugged: "What? You didn't really expect that we would live in peace from now on? Come on, it's only one minute until the new year. I have no intention to think about this now. We can take care about Faith tomorrow." With this she raised her head and smiled at her lover. He smiled back and captured her lips in a loving kiss.

The others couldn't help but smile. Certainly it was a bad thing to have Faith on the loose again, maybe together with some vampires, but they all knew Buffy was right. The hellmouth would always mean trouble. All they could do was accept it and live with it as good as possible.

Leave it to a slayer to forget about the coming dangers in the arms of her lover Xander thought and shook his head slightly, but he wore a grin on his face.

And while the the new year greeted them with fireworks Buffy and Angel broke their kiss. Their foreheads still touching they looked deeply into each others eyes and knew their love had survived another challenge.

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