DISCLAIMER: none of these characters belong to me
RATING: PG
SPOILERS: none really, well Riley
A/N: plotless fluff, kinda wrote it in like 20 minutes, was feeling a bit depressed that Buffy is over and that she and Angel still haven't reunited
A/N2: thanks a bundle to all these people who sent me such wonderful feedback: Christine, Rain, Court, Isis, Angelbabs, Carmelia, Doc, and Rashell...meant a lot =)
FEEDBACK: please! it would make this rainy day mch better, stdragon88@aol.com

Buffy sat among the hydrangeas, patiently waiting for Riley. She had called him with an important message. Her hands fiddled with her pleated skirt, anxious to get it over with. The park was beautiful with vibrant flowers and willow trees scattered about. But it did nothing to soothe her nerves.

Presently, she saw the tall blonde approach.

He greeted her with a kiss on the cheek. "Buffy, what's so important?"

Taking a deep breath, Buffy responded. "I don't think we should see each other anymore."

There was a pause before Riley managed to say anything at all. "But, Buffy," he choked out, "why?" He went on before she could answer. "I love you."

"I don't." Sadly she smiled and took his hand in hers. "I care for you, but it's not love."

His voice became desperate. "Please, give me another chance. I'll make you love me."

"I couldn't, not even if I tried." Buffy felt horrible for ending it like this but it had to be done. "My heart belongs to another."

Pained Riley quietly said, "I see."

Buffy let go of his hand and nervously smoothed her hair. "I'm sorry."

Riley stood and began to walk away.

He hesitated for a moment before turning around again. "Couldn't you?"

"You're not the one." Buffy simply stated. He nodded slowly and left. She felt…free, like a great weight had been lifted off her shoulders.

To a stranger it looked as though the blonde was alone. With a slight smile on her face Buffy responded to the familiar tingle down her spine.

"You heard it all didn't you?" She asked quietly.

A voice from the nearby willow replied, "I did." Angel stepped into the warmth of the sun, both hands deep in the pockets of his black duster. He joined her on the bench. They both stared straight ahead for a moment before he spoke again, "Am I the one?"

She didn't say a word. Just took his hand and interlaced his fingers with her own. Angel withdrew his other hand from his pocket.

Buffy felt something cool slip onto the fourth finger of her left hand. It was her Claddagh ring, with the heart pointing in. Angel stood and gently drew his wife to her feet. The kiss was a gentle, a lover's brush.

Angel took her hand and together they walked down the sun flecked path.

Send feedback to Lana

Back to the Fanfiction Archive