SUMMARY: Cordelia loves Angel, but is reluctant to reveal anything since
she thinks he could never feel the same way. Angel loves her too, but is
much too dense to recognize these feelings. After his seer suffers a
tragic accident that leaves her severely traumatized, the champion blames
himself for not being there for her. The two then receive supernatural
therapy care of Lorne and in the process reveal their true feelings for
each other. Subsequently, Angel decides to take radical steps in securing
a happy, normal future life with Cordelia.
AUTHOR's NOTE: This is an extremely long tale and you may have to wait awhile for new chapters to come out, but I beg of you to be patient. It will be all worth it to a true A/C fan, I PROMISE! Just stick with me till the end, because I do intend to finish this wonderful love story. If you'd like to help me write faster, please REVIEW so I may be inspired to work. Thanks very much!
* * *
Forever Yours
CHAPTER ONE - SPARKS
Angel opened the door to his bedroom and stepped out into the dimly lit hall of the Hyperion Hotel. He paused for a moment to listen to the sounds of the peaceful Los Angeles night-the cars driving down the busy freeways, the rush of the cool evening breeze, the soft prattle of pedestrians walking the streets.
"If he finds out, there'll be hell to pay, I'm telling you that!"
"Well, he doesn't have to find out, does he? I mean, considering he's already under enough stress as he is, maybe it would be better for us to just leave it out of the conversation."
"Are you crazy?! If he finds out we helped her to keep this from him, we're the ones who are gonna be in big trouble. I dunno about you guys, but I'm rather fond of the idea of keeping my life, thank you very much!"
.the eternally present arguing of his teammates .
Angel sighed and shook his head, continuing to walk down the hall towards the staircase.
"Besides, it could be boorish of us to just stick our butts in where they're not wanted."
"Right. Right! It's not like we're supposed to get involved. This is their business. We're just the spectators."
The voices grew louder and clearer as Angel quietly descended the steps leading to the main lobby of the hotel. He frowned. What were these guys squabbling about now?
"And she has a right to her privacy. I don't think it's appropriate for us to break it for her."
"Sure, tell that to Angel when."
Angel jumped down the last step. "Tell me what?"
Wesley, Gunn, Fred, and Lorne all gasped simultaneously and jumped up from their huddled position at the front desk. Angel felt an amused smile creep to his lips as four pairs of wide eyes watched him approach.
"Angel." Wesley gulped. "Didn't realize you were already up."
"Did you have a good sleep?" Fred piped up, smiling nervously.
Angel shrugged as he walked past them and headed for the refrigerator where his pig's blood was stored. "Sure, I guess. It took me a while to finally get Connor down, but after he stopped screaming in my ear and drifted off to Lala-land I was able to catch a few winks." He glanced at his watch. "About four hours of them."
"Not enough!" Gunn blurted out.
Angel threw his teammate a strange look as he poured himself a glass of his thick red beverage.
Gunn tried again. " I mean, four hours? You gotta get more rest than that! After the busy morning we've had." "I was bored stiff the whole day doing nothing but change diapers." Angel retorted.
"I think what Gunn here is trying to say ." Lorne interrupted, shooting a sharp glare at the man as he spoke. "Is that we think you're been working too hard lately. Perhaps it would be a good idea for you to start.uhm. taking better care of your health."
"Yes." Wesley added, nodding his head vigorously. "You could even begin by marching right back to your room and taking a nice long nap. Like.now." he said in a rush, using what was obviously the most forceful tone he could muster.
Angel stared at them. "Okay, now you're all starting to creep me out." he said, suspicion seeping into his voice. "What's up?"
"Nothing!" Gunn replied all too quickly.
"Nothing at all." Wesley croaked in agreement.
"Even less than nothing!" Fred finished. "Negative to zero."
Angel frowned and placed the glass in his hand down on the table. "Now I know something's going on." he told them, crossing his arms over his chest. "Spill."
"Spill?" Fred squeaked. "There's nothing to spill."
Angel's scowl deepened. "Now."
Wesley sighed. He shot an uneasy glance at the others before he spoke. "Well, it's about Cordelia."
"Cordy?" Every nerve in Angel's body fired up at the mention of the name. "Why? What's wrong? Is she all right?"
"Yes, of course. As well as can be expected." Wesley hesitated.
"Then what is it?' Angel demanded impatiently. His gaze drifted around the room. "Where is she anyway?"
"She's.she went." Gunn wavered.
There was a moment of silence. Angel's eyes fired up, sending chills down the spines of his teammates.
"She went on a date." Fred managed to peep.
Another pause. Angel looked at them blankly for a few seconds before a grin spread slowly across his face.
"Very funny."
Wesley shook his head. "It's not a joke Angel."
"Cordelia?" Angel said, shaking his head. "C'mon guys. Cordy doesn't date."
"Are you kidding me?!" Gunn scoffed. "Most girls as fine as her list dating as their favorite past time."
"But not Cordelia." Angel said firmly, the smile fading from his lips. "She's not just any girl."
"Precisely." Wesley put in. "She's dateless not because she doesn't get any offers, but because she chooses not to. She sacrifices her social life for us." He paused and looked at the vampire meaningfully. "For you."
Angel's brow furrowed. "But it's different. We need her. We have job to do."
"Angel," Lorne said. "There's more to Cordy than just Vision Girl. She's a woman-she has needs." He shrugged. "I dunno know about you guys, but I think she deserves to have a night out every now and then."
"Lorne's right Angel." Fred agreed softly. "The visions Cordy's been having lately have been pretty rough on her. It might be good for her to start dating again, even if just to get her mind off things."
A low growl escaped Angel's throat, making the three jump back an inch.
"Uh, oh." Gunn muttered inaudibly.
"This is Cordelia we're talking about!" Angel rumbled. "My-our-seer." He glowered at them. "And you're telling me you just let her go gadding about with some dickhead?!"
"His name is Nick Anderson." Fred said quickly. "He's this guy she's been chatting with over the internet for a while now."
"Ha!" Angel yelled. "See? She's never even really met the guy before! How do we know he's not a demon? Or just some sick online psycho?"
Wesley rolled his eyes. "Angel, come on."
"No, I will not come on Wesley!" Angel snapped back. "I'm her Champion, goddammit! It's my job to make sure she's safe."
"It's just a date, Angel." Fred said meekly. "A nice normal dinner with a nice normal guy. What could possibly go wrong in one night?"
"Her visions!" Angel retorted. "What if she gets hit by one and we're not there for her? I don't think Mr. Oh-So-Nice-Guy-Date will understand if she just tumbled to the floor screaming her lungs out."
"She was willing to take that risk." Gunn pointed out. "Maybe you should too."
"Besides," Lorne pointed out. "Princess has always been really good at fending for herself. She doesn't need for you to be there all the time for her."
"Like hell she doesn't." Angel muttered.
"Where are you going?" Wesley asked, as the vampire grabbed his duster off the coat rack and began to make his way towards the entrance of the hotel.
Ignoring the question, Angel turned to Fred. "Where are they now?" he asked quietly, his tone and face dark.
The young girl cracked immediately under his frightening glare. "Uhm.some new place called Lorenzo's, I think. It's along Sunset."
"Right." Angel pulled the main door open. "Wesley, get your coat."
The British man's eyes widened. "Er, I don't think it would a great idea for me to."
"NOW."
"Yes, right away."
As soon as the door slammed shut, the four friends let their breaths out freely.
"God, his aura's flaring like anything." Lorne remarked with a shake of his head. "It's worse than a boy band concert."
"Wesley, are you sure we should let him do this?" Fred asked anxiously. "He seems very unstable right now. And we did promise Cordelia we wouldn't tell. Now he's going to go ruin the night for her."
"Well, it's what we expected, isn't it?" Wesley answered grimly as he pulled on his jacket. "Besides, you know Angel. Nothing's going to stop him now."
"Jeez, why can't he just come out and tell her how he feels?" Gunn said in exasperation. "This whole I'm-her-Champion-and-I-have-to-protect- her excuse is getting really lame. It's becoming all too obvious that he's just jealous."
"Well, give them time, kids." Lorne told them with a knowing smile. "It'll come around."
"In the meantime, I suggest you just go with him." Gunn told Wesley. "And try to make sure he doesn't rip the guy's head off or anything that drastic.
"At least not in front of Cordy."
* * *
Cordelia smiled faintly at the handsome man seated across the table from her. He was thankfully much better looking than she had expected. She had prepared herself for the worst to come out of this semi-blind date, but as it turned out her online friend was a genuine hottie, at least as far as chat room pals went.
He was sweet too-as he had been during their many hours of online communication and flirting in the chat room. His designer brand clothes, the orchid corsage on her wrist, and the opulence of the restaurant they were dining in also proved that he was rich. Nicholas Anderson was an up- and-coming computer programmer, as well as heir to a thriving infotech business empire. Up until now Cordelia had a hard time getting over the fact that she was able to snag this too-good-to-be-true winner over the internet.
The maître d' approached their table, carrying a bottle. "Would you care for more champagne, Signore Anderson?" he asked respectfully.
"None for me, thanks." Nick replied.
The silver-haired man nodded with a smile and turned to Cordelia. "And what about the Signora?"
Cordelia blinked, her train of thought interrupted. "Uhm, no.no thank you."
After the waiter left, Nick leaned forward, his blue gaze keen on Cordelia. "How's the salad?"
"It's delicious." Cordelia answered with a bright smile, though it took her some effort.
"Can I get you anything else?"
Cordelia shook her head. "No, I'm fine. Thank you."
Nick smiled, his eyes crinkling at the sides. "Amazing." he murmured.
"What? What is?"
"You." Nick answered easily. He gestured around them. "This."
Cordelia's brow creased. "I'm not sure I'm following."
"For years I've been looking for the perfect girl I could finally have a perfect date with." Nick explained. "I never thought I would find her using online chat." He paused and looked at her adoringly. "God, you're so beautiful."
Cordelia blushed and ducked her head, not exactly sure of what to say. "Thanks."
She really liked this guy, but his unceasing compliments were starting to make her a little uncomfortable. Which was strange, really. Cordelia used to enjoy basking in the glow incessant flattery from male admirers. She was never the prissy-sweet type who got embarrassed by it.
Have I really changed that much? Cordelia wondered. Maybe her transition from the bitchy Sunnydale Queen C to humble Los Angeles Vision Girl had totally stripped away the vicious dating prowess she had always possessed and was darn proud of.
Or maybe it was just because she had been spoiled by Angel.
Angel. Her Angel.
A muted sigh escaped Cordelia's lips. Now Angel was the real sweetie. He was different from all the other men she knew and dated who had showered her with praises, gifts, and promises. When Angel complimented her, she could always be sure that he meant it with his whole unbeating heart and cursed soul-she could tell by just looking into those deep searching eyes of his.. He was far from rich, but he was thoughtful enough to surprise her with simple presents every now and then-the spontaneous little gifts that could make any girl's heart turn into mush. And all the vows he made her, though simple and few, were always fulfilled. He kept her safe, was there for her whenever she needed him, and always made her feel like the most special person in the world. He would do anything for her.
She was in love with him. Cordelia loved her Champion more than anything-so much in fact that it actually hurt to think about.
It really was just too bad that he couldn't love her back. Why should he when there were more important things he had to think of?
Take Buffy, for instance. Why should Angel think about plain, boring old Cordelia who can never compete with what the Slayer was able to give him?
"Cordelia? Something the matter?"
"Huh?" Cordelia jerked her head slightly, brought back to earth by the concern in Nick's voice. "Oh! Uhm, nothing. I was just thinking about some stuff. work related."
"Still?" Nick said with a shake of his head. "What's the matter? Having problems with your associate again?"
"Sort of." Cordelia murmured.
"If you ask me, this Angel guy must be some jerk to have you constantly worrying this way." Nick remarked, a frown crossing his mouth. "Ever consider quitting? I'm sure I can help you find another job somewhere else."
Cordelia shook her head. "It's the sort of work I can't help but be completely tied down to. But thanks for the concern and offer anyway."
Nick smiled. "Beautiful and committed." he mused. He reached over and laid his hand over hers on the table. "You don't usually find that combination in girls these days."
"Uh, huh." Cordelia murmured, her gaze becoming distant once more.
In way, Nick was right. Why was she allowing Angel to affect her this way? She was Cordelia Chase, dammit! She was young, gorgeous, fun, and by all means had no reason to stay single and miserable. Why was she insisting on pining for Angel when she can in fact snag any eligible male in Los Angeles?
Well, that's exactly why you went on this date, she reminded herself. To prove to yourself there are other men out there aside from the Vampire with Soul.
Then why wasn't it working? Why wasn't she happy with this date? Why was she still thinking about Angel?
Suddenly she became aware of the feeling of warm breath near her face. She looked up in time to see Nick's face coming dangerously close to hers. Her eyes widening, Cordelia turned her face in time for the man's lips to brush her ear instead of pressing smack on her mouth.
She pushed her chair back, grabbing her purse. "Could you excuse me for a minute Nick?" she said quickly, getting to her feet. " I just have to go to the ladies' room for a while."
Before her date could protest or do anything else, she hurried away.
"Damn you, Angel!" Cordelia muttered under her breath as she walked.
Guys who moved fast during the first date never bothered her before. But after getting spoiled by Angel's ways-his old fashioned, respectful, gentlemanly ways-she began to see forwardness as a turn off. Nick was close to perfect, but he wasn't good enough. He wasn't what she wanted.
He wasn't Angel.
Even without being physically present, the vampire was already able to ruin her date. She let him.
Cordelia groaned to herself. She was hopeless, and there was nothing she could do to fix it.
* * *
Wesley slowly lowed the menu he was using to cover his face. His gaze followed Cordelia's retreating back as she went inside the ladies room. He breathed a sigh of relief.
"Okay, coast's clear." he said, turning to the vampire seated at the table next to him.
"He-he tried to kiss her!" Angel snarled, his voice so low and menacing it made the hairs at the back of Wesley's neck rise. "Did you see that?!"
Angel's face was livid beyond description. The ex-Watcher could practically see red smoke seeping out of his ears. He could sense that Angel was ready to slip into his vamp face any second now. "Get a hold of yourself." Wesley said as firmly as he could. "The last thing we need is to create a scene and let Cordelia find out we followed her here."
"Wesley, that guy's up to no good!" Angel snapped, his voice rising. "I can sense his hormones going nuts from here, for god's sake!"
"Angel."
"And the way he was looking at her! Touched her hand! His body language! That man has nothing but sex in his mind, Wesley!" Angel growled.
"Angel."
"Why the hell Cordy could even think of going out with a loser like that is beyond me."
"Angel!"
"What?!"
Wesley gestured to Angel's clenched fist. "You might want to let go of that."
Angel stared at the silver dinner fork in his hand. In his colossal anger he had twisted it and bent it in half without even realizing what he was doing. He carelessly dropped it back beside his plate.
"Angel, I know you're upset." Wesley said gently. "But we have to respect Cordelia's wishes. If she came here to be with this man tonight, then that's her choice. We can't just barge in and."
"I'm going to go and have a talk with Mr. Testosterone." Angel interrupted, pushing back his chair.
Wesley caught his arm. "Are you crazy?!" he hissed. "You can't just march up there and."
It didn't take the vampire much effort to yank himself out of Wesley's hold. The former Watcher could only watch helplessly as Angel stormed towards the table where Cordelia's date sat alone.
"God help that man." Wesley muttered, shuddering.
* * *
Nick blinked in surprise as Angel slid into the seat across the table from him.
"Excuse me. Do I know you?' the young man asked, raising his eyebrows.
Angel forced a smile that looked more like a wolf baring his teeth.
"No," the vampire answered, struggling to keep his voice steady. "But I do know that woman who was just sitting here with you a moment ago."
"Really." Nick's eyebrows met. "And who are you supposed to be? Ex- boyfriend?"
The sneering tone in this punk's voice made it all too clear that he didn't give a damn whether Cordelia already had a boyfriend or not. Already Angel could feel the violent urge to just slam his pretty boy face to the floor.
"No." Angel managed to growl back. "A friend from work."
A look or realization dawned on Nick's face. He smirked. "Is your name Angel by any chance?"
Angel was taken aback for a moment. "How did you know that?"
Nick shrugged. "Cordelia talked about you all the time." he said simply. "We're chat room buddies, you know. The name's Nick."
"I don't give a damn if you two are sewing circle buddies." Angel snapped, his arms just about ready to seize the guys' shirt collar. "What I want to know is."
He stopped, Nick's first sentence sinking in. "She talked about me?"
Nick nodded. "Quite a lot, for a guy she obviously doesn't like very much."
A twinge of hurt mixed with the anger burbling in Angel's chest. Cordelia said she didn't like him? But.but why? Did he do something wrong? Has he done anything to.
Wait. Why was he so ready to believe what this loser was telling him?!
"In fact, I've been trying to get her to stop worrying about you all night." Nick went on. "You must be some bad friend, to bother her so much the poor girl can't even enjoy a date in peace."
Angel's face softened, confusion replacing his fury almost completely.
Did he really have that effect on Cordy? Did he really make her worry? Was he a bad friend? A bother?
Or maybe she was just worried that he was going to crash in on her date and pound him to a pulp-- which was exactly what he had intended. Was that something a real friend would do? A good friend?
Now, he wasn't so sure of what he wanted anymore.
"Anyway, what is it that I can help you with, Angel?" Nick was saying, as Angel's attention as brought back to reality. "Please be quick about it. Cordelia should be back any minute now, and you're in her seat. She may not appreciate seeing you here."
Angel slowly got to his feet, lowering his gaze. "It's nothing." he mumbled. "Just.forget it."
At that same moment, Wesley chose to come up behind Angel and whisper urgently to him.
"Angel, I seriously suggest that you get your butt out of here now , before."
"I know, Wesley. I know." Angel said softly. "We can leave."
Nick had one last thing to say as Angel and Wesley turned to go.
"Don't worry, Angel. I'll take good care of her, I promise."
The attitude Angel heard in the man's voice lit the fire back up in his chest. He gritted his teeth. This guy obviously had plans for Cordelia-and he didn't like them.
He turned back around, plastering another painful smile on his face. He held out his hand.
"It was nice meeting you, Dick."
The younger man took the vampire's hand wittingly and smirked. "It's Nick. And likewise, An..Owww!!!"
Angel smiled with satisfaction. He could feel the guy's hand crack in his effortless but powerful grip. After he let go, Nick clutched his broken hand in agony, whimpering.
"I'll see you around, maybe." Angel called over his shoulder, as he and Wesley walked away.
The two friends were almost at the door of the restaurant when suddenly they heard someone call their names. They froze in their tracks and turned around slowly.
Cordelia marched over and stopped in front of them, her hands on her hips.
"What are you two doing here?" she demanded with her eyebrow raised.
"Cordy!" Angel exclaimed, feigning a look of surprise. "Fancy running into you! Wesley and I were just."
Cordelia rolled her eyes. "Oh, please." she muttered. "The jig is up, Angel. Wesley knew I was going to be here tonight, so don't even try making up a lame story."
She turned her glare at the ex-Watcher. "I told you not to tell!" she fumed. "You are such a weeny!"
"It was Fred who cracked, not me!" Wesley protested. "And I'm not a weeny!"
"Anyway, why did you want to keep it a secret from me, Cordelia?" Angel asked, unable to mask the hurt in his voice. "Don't you trust me?"
Cordelia threw up her hands in exasperation. "Because I wanted to avoid this! I knew you would try to barge in here all heroic and ruin my date!"
"I didn't." Angel began, but was interrupted by the sudden appearance of Nick, who was still groaning and holding his injured hand, his eyes dewy with pain.
"Nick!" Cordelia gasped, rushing to the blonde man. "What happened?"
"A little accident." Nick grunted, avoiding her gaze as well as Angel's. "I'm sorry Cordelia, but I have to go. I'll call you, okay?"
"But."Cordelia began, but Nick walked out the door before she could get another word in.
Angel gulped nervously as Cordelia turned around slowly to face him, pure venom in her glare.
"Angel," she said in a dangerously quiet, low voice. "Don't you ever dare speak to me a-ahhh!!!"
Her last word ended in a shout as she jerked backward, clutching her head in agony.
Angel caught her before she could fall very far. Pulling her against him, he cradled her gently as her delicate body shuddered and writhed uncontrollably under the torture of the vision. He stroked her back comfortingly, whispering gently to her as she cried out.
"Hang on, Cordy. I'm here. Just hang on."
The vampire gathered the girl up in his arms and carried her out of the restaurant where she could get fresh air. Distantly, he could hear Wesley reassuring the curious bystanders.
"She's all right. Just a very, very bad headache, that's all."
Angel didn't care if people were staring at the scene they were making. Cordelia was all that mattered. He gritted his teeth, cursing under his breath. He hated feeling so helpless at times like this, when his seer was going through so much pain and he had no means of making it go away or even easing it. Tears stung the corners of his eyes. It was as if he could feel every exact thing she was going through.
After what seemed like eternity, Cordelia went limp in Angel's arms as the vision ended.
Angel caressed her cheek gently. "Cordy?"
Her striking eyes fluttered open, though dull with weariness and fear. She blinked once, and suddenly all Angel could see was her courage and determination.
"A gang of vamps. Attacking a group of teenage girls in an alleyway. Near a disco called Ozone." she mumbled, struggling to make her voice clear.
Angel nodded. "I know where that is-just a couple of blocks away."
Cordelia forced herself erect, though with much difficulty. Angel passed her over to Wesley as gently as he could, but with much reluctance.
"I can run from here. Take the car and bring her home." he said seriously. "I won't be long."
He gave Cordelia's head one last affectionate stroke. "I'll see you later." he whispered.
Cordelia smiled weakly up at him. "Be careful."
"Don't even worry about it."
At that, Angel spun on his heel and raced down the busy street, melting into the shadows seconds later.
* * *
COMING UP.. Chapter Two -Dreams
AUTHOR's NOTE: This is an extremely long tale and you may have to wait awhile for new chapters to come out, but I beg of you to be patient. It will be all worth it to a true A/C fan, I PROMISE! Just stick with me till the end, because I do intend to finish this wonderful love story. If you'd like to help me write faster, please REVIEW so I may be inspired to work. Thanks very much!
* * *
Forever Yours
CHAPTER ONE - SPARKS
Angel opened the door to his bedroom and stepped out into the dimly lit hall of the Hyperion Hotel. He paused for a moment to listen to the sounds of the peaceful Los Angeles night-the cars driving down the busy freeways, the rush of the cool evening breeze, the soft prattle of pedestrians walking the streets.
"If he finds out, there'll be hell to pay, I'm telling you that!"
"Well, he doesn't have to find out, does he? I mean, considering he's already under enough stress as he is, maybe it would be better for us to just leave it out of the conversation."
"Are you crazy?! If he finds out we helped her to keep this from him, we're the ones who are gonna be in big trouble. I dunno about you guys, but I'm rather fond of the idea of keeping my life, thank you very much!"
.the eternally present arguing of his teammates .
Angel sighed and shook his head, continuing to walk down the hall towards the staircase.
"Besides, it could be boorish of us to just stick our butts in where they're not wanted."
"Right. Right! It's not like we're supposed to get involved. This is their business. We're just the spectators."
The voices grew louder and clearer as Angel quietly descended the steps leading to the main lobby of the hotel. He frowned. What were these guys squabbling about now?
"And she has a right to her privacy. I don't think it's appropriate for us to break it for her."
"Sure, tell that to Angel when."
Angel jumped down the last step. "Tell me what?"
Wesley, Gunn, Fred, and Lorne all gasped simultaneously and jumped up from their huddled position at the front desk. Angel felt an amused smile creep to his lips as four pairs of wide eyes watched him approach.
"Angel." Wesley gulped. "Didn't realize you were already up."
"Did you have a good sleep?" Fred piped up, smiling nervously.
Angel shrugged as he walked past them and headed for the refrigerator where his pig's blood was stored. "Sure, I guess. It took me a while to finally get Connor down, but after he stopped screaming in my ear and drifted off to Lala-land I was able to catch a few winks." He glanced at his watch. "About four hours of them."
"Not enough!" Gunn blurted out.
Angel threw his teammate a strange look as he poured himself a glass of his thick red beverage.
Gunn tried again. " I mean, four hours? You gotta get more rest than that! After the busy morning we've had." "I was bored stiff the whole day doing nothing but change diapers." Angel retorted.
"I think what Gunn here is trying to say ." Lorne interrupted, shooting a sharp glare at the man as he spoke. "Is that we think you're been working too hard lately. Perhaps it would be a good idea for you to start.uhm. taking better care of your health."
"Yes." Wesley added, nodding his head vigorously. "You could even begin by marching right back to your room and taking a nice long nap. Like.now." he said in a rush, using what was obviously the most forceful tone he could muster.
Angel stared at them. "Okay, now you're all starting to creep me out." he said, suspicion seeping into his voice. "What's up?"
"Nothing!" Gunn replied all too quickly.
"Nothing at all." Wesley croaked in agreement.
"Even less than nothing!" Fred finished. "Negative to zero."
Angel frowned and placed the glass in his hand down on the table. "Now I know something's going on." he told them, crossing his arms over his chest. "Spill."
"Spill?" Fred squeaked. "There's nothing to spill."
Angel's scowl deepened. "Now."
Wesley sighed. He shot an uneasy glance at the others before he spoke. "Well, it's about Cordelia."
"Cordy?" Every nerve in Angel's body fired up at the mention of the name. "Why? What's wrong? Is she all right?"
"Yes, of course. As well as can be expected." Wesley hesitated.
"Then what is it?' Angel demanded impatiently. His gaze drifted around the room. "Where is she anyway?"
"She's.she went." Gunn wavered.
There was a moment of silence. Angel's eyes fired up, sending chills down the spines of his teammates.
"She went on a date." Fred managed to peep.
Another pause. Angel looked at them blankly for a few seconds before a grin spread slowly across his face.
"Very funny."
Wesley shook his head. "It's not a joke Angel."
"Cordelia?" Angel said, shaking his head. "C'mon guys. Cordy doesn't date."
"Are you kidding me?!" Gunn scoffed. "Most girls as fine as her list dating as their favorite past time."
"But not Cordelia." Angel said firmly, the smile fading from his lips. "She's not just any girl."
"Precisely." Wesley put in. "She's dateless not because she doesn't get any offers, but because she chooses not to. She sacrifices her social life for us." He paused and looked at the vampire meaningfully. "For you."
Angel's brow furrowed. "But it's different. We need her. We have job to do."
"Angel," Lorne said. "There's more to Cordy than just Vision Girl. She's a woman-she has needs." He shrugged. "I dunno know about you guys, but I think she deserves to have a night out every now and then."
"Lorne's right Angel." Fred agreed softly. "The visions Cordy's been having lately have been pretty rough on her. It might be good for her to start dating again, even if just to get her mind off things."
A low growl escaped Angel's throat, making the three jump back an inch.
"Uh, oh." Gunn muttered inaudibly.
"This is Cordelia we're talking about!" Angel rumbled. "My-our-seer." He glowered at them. "And you're telling me you just let her go gadding about with some dickhead?!"
"His name is Nick Anderson." Fred said quickly. "He's this guy she's been chatting with over the internet for a while now."
"Ha!" Angel yelled. "See? She's never even really met the guy before! How do we know he's not a demon? Or just some sick online psycho?"
Wesley rolled his eyes. "Angel, come on."
"No, I will not come on Wesley!" Angel snapped back. "I'm her Champion, goddammit! It's my job to make sure she's safe."
"It's just a date, Angel." Fred said meekly. "A nice normal dinner with a nice normal guy. What could possibly go wrong in one night?"
"Her visions!" Angel retorted. "What if she gets hit by one and we're not there for her? I don't think Mr. Oh-So-Nice-Guy-Date will understand if she just tumbled to the floor screaming her lungs out."
"She was willing to take that risk." Gunn pointed out. "Maybe you should too."
"Besides," Lorne pointed out. "Princess has always been really good at fending for herself. She doesn't need for you to be there all the time for her."
"Like hell she doesn't." Angel muttered.
"Where are you going?" Wesley asked, as the vampire grabbed his duster off the coat rack and began to make his way towards the entrance of the hotel.
Ignoring the question, Angel turned to Fred. "Where are they now?" he asked quietly, his tone and face dark.
The young girl cracked immediately under his frightening glare. "Uhm.some new place called Lorenzo's, I think. It's along Sunset."
"Right." Angel pulled the main door open. "Wesley, get your coat."
The British man's eyes widened. "Er, I don't think it would a great idea for me to."
"NOW."
"Yes, right away."
As soon as the door slammed shut, the four friends let their breaths out freely.
"God, his aura's flaring like anything." Lorne remarked with a shake of his head. "It's worse than a boy band concert."
"Wesley, are you sure we should let him do this?" Fred asked anxiously. "He seems very unstable right now. And we did promise Cordelia we wouldn't tell. Now he's going to go ruin the night for her."
"Well, it's what we expected, isn't it?" Wesley answered grimly as he pulled on his jacket. "Besides, you know Angel. Nothing's going to stop him now."
"Jeez, why can't he just come out and tell her how he feels?" Gunn said in exasperation. "This whole I'm-her-Champion-and-I-have-to-protect- her excuse is getting really lame. It's becoming all too obvious that he's just jealous."
"Well, give them time, kids." Lorne told them with a knowing smile. "It'll come around."
"In the meantime, I suggest you just go with him." Gunn told Wesley. "And try to make sure he doesn't rip the guy's head off or anything that drastic.
"At least not in front of Cordy."
* * *
Cordelia smiled faintly at the handsome man seated across the table from her. He was thankfully much better looking than she had expected. She had prepared herself for the worst to come out of this semi-blind date, but as it turned out her online friend was a genuine hottie, at least as far as chat room pals went.
He was sweet too-as he had been during their many hours of online communication and flirting in the chat room. His designer brand clothes, the orchid corsage on her wrist, and the opulence of the restaurant they were dining in also proved that he was rich. Nicholas Anderson was an up- and-coming computer programmer, as well as heir to a thriving infotech business empire. Up until now Cordelia had a hard time getting over the fact that she was able to snag this too-good-to-be-true winner over the internet.
The maître d' approached their table, carrying a bottle. "Would you care for more champagne, Signore Anderson?" he asked respectfully.
"None for me, thanks." Nick replied.
The silver-haired man nodded with a smile and turned to Cordelia. "And what about the Signora?"
Cordelia blinked, her train of thought interrupted. "Uhm, no.no thank you."
After the waiter left, Nick leaned forward, his blue gaze keen on Cordelia. "How's the salad?"
"It's delicious." Cordelia answered with a bright smile, though it took her some effort.
"Can I get you anything else?"
Cordelia shook her head. "No, I'm fine. Thank you."
Nick smiled, his eyes crinkling at the sides. "Amazing." he murmured.
"What? What is?"
"You." Nick answered easily. He gestured around them. "This."
Cordelia's brow creased. "I'm not sure I'm following."
"For years I've been looking for the perfect girl I could finally have a perfect date with." Nick explained. "I never thought I would find her using online chat." He paused and looked at her adoringly. "God, you're so beautiful."
Cordelia blushed and ducked her head, not exactly sure of what to say. "Thanks."
She really liked this guy, but his unceasing compliments were starting to make her a little uncomfortable. Which was strange, really. Cordelia used to enjoy basking in the glow incessant flattery from male admirers. She was never the prissy-sweet type who got embarrassed by it.
Have I really changed that much? Cordelia wondered. Maybe her transition from the bitchy Sunnydale Queen C to humble Los Angeles Vision Girl had totally stripped away the vicious dating prowess she had always possessed and was darn proud of.
Or maybe it was just because she had been spoiled by Angel.
Angel. Her Angel.
A muted sigh escaped Cordelia's lips. Now Angel was the real sweetie. He was different from all the other men she knew and dated who had showered her with praises, gifts, and promises. When Angel complimented her, she could always be sure that he meant it with his whole unbeating heart and cursed soul-she could tell by just looking into those deep searching eyes of his.. He was far from rich, but he was thoughtful enough to surprise her with simple presents every now and then-the spontaneous little gifts that could make any girl's heart turn into mush. And all the vows he made her, though simple and few, were always fulfilled. He kept her safe, was there for her whenever she needed him, and always made her feel like the most special person in the world. He would do anything for her.
She was in love with him. Cordelia loved her Champion more than anything-so much in fact that it actually hurt to think about.
It really was just too bad that he couldn't love her back. Why should he when there were more important things he had to think of?
Take Buffy, for instance. Why should Angel think about plain, boring old Cordelia who can never compete with what the Slayer was able to give him?
"Cordelia? Something the matter?"
"Huh?" Cordelia jerked her head slightly, brought back to earth by the concern in Nick's voice. "Oh! Uhm, nothing. I was just thinking about some stuff. work related."
"Still?" Nick said with a shake of his head. "What's the matter? Having problems with your associate again?"
"Sort of." Cordelia murmured.
"If you ask me, this Angel guy must be some jerk to have you constantly worrying this way." Nick remarked, a frown crossing his mouth. "Ever consider quitting? I'm sure I can help you find another job somewhere else."
Cordelia shook her head. "It's the sort of work I can't help but be completely tied down to. But thanks for the concern and offer anyway."
Nick smiled. "Beautiful and committed." he mused. He reached over and laid his hand over hers on the table. "You don't usually find that combination in girls these days."
"Uh, huh." Cordelia murmured, her gaze becoming distant once more.
In way, Nick was right. Why was she allowing Angel to affect her this way? She was Cordelia Chase, dammit! She was young, gorgeous, fun, and by all means had no reason to stay single and miserable. Why was she insisting on pining for Angel when she can in fact snag any eligible male in Los Angeles?
Well, that's exactly why you went on this date, she reminded herself. To prove to yourself there are other men out there aside from the Vampire with Soul.
Then why wasn't it working? Why wasn't she happy with this date? Why was she still thinking about Angel?
Suddenly she became aware of the feeling of warm breath near her face. She looked up in time to see Nick's face coming dangerously close to hers. Her eyes widening, Cordelia turned her face in time for the man's lips to brush her ear instead of pressing smack on her mouth.
She pushed her chair back, grabbing her purse. "Could you excuse me for a minute Nick?" she said quickly, getting to her feet. " I just have to go to the ladies' room for a while."
Before her date could protest or do anything else, she hurried away.
"Damn you, Angel!" Cordelia muttered under her breath as she walked.
Guys who moved fast during the first date never bothered her before. But after getting spoiled by Angel's ways-his old fashioned, respectful, gentlemanly ways-she began to see forwardness as a turn off. Nick was close to perfect, but he wasn't good enough. He wasn't what she wanted.
He wasn't Angel.
Even without being physically present, the vampire was already able to ruin her date. She let him.
Cordelia groaned to herself. She was hopeless, and there was nothing she could do to fix it.
* * *
Wesley slowly lowed the menu he was using to cover his face. His gaze followed Cordelia's retreating back as she went inside the ladies room. He breathed a sigh of relief.
"Okay, coast's clear." he said, turning to the vampire seated at the table next to him.
"He-he tried to kiss her!" Angel snarled, his voice so low and menacing it made the hairs at the back of Wesley's neck rise. "Did you see that?!"
Angel's face was livid beyond description. The ex-Watcher could practically see red smoke seeping out of his ears. He could sense that Angel was ready to slip into his vamp face any second now. "Get a hold of yourself." Wesley said as firmly as he could. "The last thing we need is to create a scene and let Cordelia find out we followed her here."
"Wesley, that guy's up to no good!" Angel snapped, his voice rising. "I can sense his hormones going nuts from here, for god's sake!"
"Angel."
"And the way he was looking at her! Touched her hand! His body language! That man has nothing but sex in his mind, Wesley!" Angel growled.
"Angel."
"Why the hell Cordy could even think of going out with a loser like that is beyond me."
"Angel!"
"What?!"
Wesley gestured to Angel's clenched fist. "You might want to let go of that."
Angel stared at the silver dinner fork in his hand. In his colossal anger he had twisted it and bent it in half without even realizing what he was doing. He carelessly dropped it back beside his plate.
"Angel, I know you're upset." Wesley said gently. "But we have to respect Cordelia's wishes. If she came here to be with this man tonight, then that's her choice. We can't just barge in and."
"I'm going to go and have a talk with Mr. Testosterone." Angel interrupted, pushing back his chair.
Wesley caught his arm. "Are you crazy?!" he hissed. "You can't just march up there and."
It didn't take the vampire much effort to yank himself out of Wesley's hold. The former Watcher could only watch helplessly as Angel stormed towards the table where Cordelia's date sat alone.
"God help that man." Wesley muttered, shuddering.
* * *
Nick blinked in surprise as Angel slid into the seat across the table from him.
"Excuse me. Do I know you?' the young man asked, raising his eyebrows.
Angel forced a smile that looked more like a wolf baring his teeth.
"No," the vampire answered, struggling to keep his voice steady. "But I do know that woman who was just sitting here with you a moment ago."
"Really." Nick's eyebrows met. "And who are you supposed to be? Ex- boyfriend?"
The sneering tone in this punk's voice made it all too clear that he didn't give a damn whether Cordelia already had a boyfriend or not. Already Angel could feel the violent urge to just slam his pretty boy face to the floor.
"No." Angel managed to growl back. "A friend from work."
A look or realization dawned on Nick's face. He smirked. "Is your name Angel by any chance?"
Angel was taken aback for a moment. "How did you know that?"
Nick shrugged. "Cordelia talked about you all the time." he said simply. "We're chat room buddies, you know. The name's Nick."
"I don't give a damn if you two are sewing circle buddies." Angel snapped, his arms just about ready to seize the guys' shirt collar. "What I want to know is."
He stopped, Nick's first sentence sinking in. "She talked about me?"
Nick nodded. "Quite a lot, for a guy she obviously doesn't like very much."
A twinge of hurt mixed with the anger burbling in Angel's chest. Cordelia said she didn't like him? But.but why? Did he do something wrong? Has he done anything to.
Wait. Why was he so ready to believe what this loser was telling him?!
"In fact, I've been trying to get her to stop worrying about you all night." Nick went on. "You must be some bad friend, to bother her so much the poor girl can't even enjoy a date in peace."
Angel's face softened, confusion replacing his fury almost completely.
Did he really have that effect on Cordy? Did he really make her worry? Was he a bad friend? A bother?
Or maybe she was just worried that he was going to crash in on her date and pound him to a pulp-- which was exactly what he had intended. Was that something a real friend would do? A good friend?
Now, he wasn't so sure of what he wanted anymore.
"Anyway, what is it that I can help you with, Angel?" Nick was saying, as Angel's attention as brought back to reality. "Please be quick about it. Cordelia should be back any minute now, and you're in her seat. She may not appreciate seeing you here."
Angel slowly got to his feet, lowering his gaze. "It's nothing." he mumbled. "Just.forget it."
At that same moment, Wesley chose to come up behind Angel and whisper urgently to him.
"Angel, I seriously suggest that you get your butt out of here now , before."
"I know, Wesley. I know." Angel said softly. "We can leave."
Nick had one last thing to say as Angel and Wesley turned to go.
"Don't worry, Angel. I'll take good care of her, I promise."
The attitude Angel heard in the man's voice lit the fire back up in his chest. He gritted his teeth. This guy obviously had plans for Cordelia-and he didn't like them.
He turned back around, plastering another painful smile on his face. He held out his hand.
"It was nice meeting you, Dick."
The younger man took the vampire's hand wittingly and smirked. "It's Nick. And likewise, An..Owww!!!"
Angel smiled with satisfaction. He could feel the guy's hand crack in his effortless but powerful grip. After he let go, Nick clutched his broken hand in agony, whimpering.
"I'll see you around, maybe." Angel called over his shoulder, as he and Wesley walked away.
The two friends were almost at the door of the restaurant when suddenly they heard someone call their names. They froze in their tracks and turned around slowly.
Cordelia marched over and stopped in front of them, her hands on her hips.
"What are you two doing here?" she demanded with her eyebrow raised.
"Cordy!" Angel exclaimed, feigning a look of surprise. "Fancy running into you! Wesley and I were just."
Cordelia rolled her eyes. "Oh, please." she muttered. "The jig is up, Angel. Wesley knew I was going to be here tonight, so don't even try making up a lame story."
She turned her glare at the ex-Watcher. "I told you not to tell!" she fumed. "You are such a weeny!"
"It was Fred who cracked, not me!" Wesley protested. "And I'm not a weeny!"
"Anyway, why did you want to keep it a secret from me, Cordelia?" Angel asked, unable to mask the hurt in his voice. "Don't you trust me?"
Cordelia threw up her hands in exasperation. "Because I wanted to avoid this! I knew you would try to barge in here all heroic and ruin my date!"
"I didn't." Angel began, but was interrupted by the sudden appearance of Nick, who was still groaning and holding his injured hand, his eyes dewy with pain.
"Nick!" Cordelia gasped, rushing to the blonde man. "What happened?"
"A little accident." Nick grunted, avoiding her gaze as well as Angel's. "I'm sorry Cordelia, but I have to go. I'll call you, okay?"
"But."Cordelia began, but Nick walked out the door before she could get another word in.
Angel gulped nervously as Cordelia turned around slowly to face him, pure venom in her glare.
"Angel," she said in a dangerously quiet, low voice. "Don't you ever dare speak to me a-ahhh!!!"
Her last word ended in a shout as she jerked backward, clutching her head in agony.
Angel caught her before she could fall very far. Pulling her against him, he cradled her gently as her delicate body shuddered and writhed uncontrollably under the torture of the vision. He stroked her back comfortingly, whispering gently to her as she cried out.
"Hang on, Cordy. I'm here. Just hang on."
The vampire gathered the girl up in his arms and carried her out of the restaurant where she could get fresh air. Distantly, he could hear Wesley reassuring the curious bystanders.
"She's all right. Just a very, very bad headache, that's all."
Angel didn't care if people were staring at the scene they were making. Cordelia was all that mattered. He gritted his teeth, cursing under his breath. He hated feeling so helpless at times like this, when his seer was going through so much pain and he had no means of making it go away or even easing it. Tears stung the corners of his eyes. It was as if he could feel every exact thing she was going through.
After what seemed like eternity, Cordelia went limp in Angel's arms as the vision ended.
Angel caressed her cheek gently. "Cordy?"
Her striking eyes fluttered open, though dull with weariness and fear. She blinked once, and suddenly all Angel could see was her courage and determination.
"A gang of vamps. Attacking a group of teenage girls in an alleyway. Near a disco called Ozone." she mumbled, struggling to make her voice clear.
Angel nodded. "I know where that is-just a couple of blocks away."
Cordelia forced herself erect, though with much difficulty. Angel passed her over to Wesley as gently as he could, but with much reluctance.
"I can run from here. Take the car and bring her home." he said seriously. "I won't be long."
He gave Cordelia's head one last affectionate stroke. "I'll see you later." he whispered.
Cordelia smiled weakly up at him. "Be careful."
"Don't even worry about it."
At that, Angel spun on his heel and raced down the busy street, melting into the shadows seconds later.
* * *
COMING UP.. Chapter Two -Dreams