New Beginnings

[Sassy]

Title by: Cordelia Chase


Well I have an idea. What if Buffy and Angel had still broken up but he still stayed in Sunnydale? It would have the characters of season four but we would come up with our own plot.

Characters:

Buffy: Me
Angel: scarybunny
Riley: Cordelia Chase
Willow: scarybunny
Xander: Me
Giles: scarybunny
Prof. Walsh
Oz: scarybunny
Doyle: me (if anyone wants him, you can have him)
Wes: scarybunny
Cordy: Cordelia Chase
Faith: Cordelia Chase
Joyce: Me

Later:

Anya:TrueVengence
Spike: TrueVengence
Harmony
Tara: scarybunny

[Sassy]

Buffy walked in Restfield cemetary, on patrol. Buffy looked around, "Here vampires, come out come out whereever you are."

Doyle had arrived in Sunnydale, about a week before. He was supposed to find a vampire, Angel.

[scarybunny]

Willow held her wooden cross tightly in her hand. She walked alongside Buffy in the cemetery. It wasn't a school night, so there was no reason she should feel guilty. Ever since she had started at UC Sunnydale her mind had been in a whirl of excitement. Yes!! Finally in college!! She looked at Buffy and wondered if she felt the same way..."Don't ya think that would kind of... I don't know, scare them off.. You know, knowing that you're ready to fight and all?" She grinned at Buffy.

Giles sat down in his armchair in his apartment. He sighed. Another night, another unproductive day... He hoped Buffy and everyone were feeling better then he did. He sipped the hot tea and it scorched his tongue. He set down the teacup and switched on the television.

[Sassy]

Buffy smiled at her freind, "I guess. Its just it has been a little too quiet around here lately. Well you know, as quiet as it gets here. So is Oz playing at the Bronze tonight?"

[scarybunny]

At the thought of Oz Willow smiled more. "Not tonight. He's just rehearsing. But, but they're playing tomorrow night if you feel up to it, or if there isn't any apocalyptic activity." She said brightly. "Hmm, why'd you think the vamps are being all hide-y? Do you think somethings scaring them. Or-or maybe its me!! They're probably not used to-to people other than the Slayer to come and get them, or, you know, it could be coz there's something else thats scaring them." Willow grinned.

[Sassy]

"Okay. So the Bronze it is." Buffy says with a smile, "You have been coming on patrol with me all summer though. Maybe I'll talk to Giles and Angel and see if they know anything?"

[scarybunny]

Willow instinctively went into sympathy mode. "How is Angel, anyway? You guys all right with the whole here but no see thing? 'Cause I would think it would be kind of... well, painful. You two being here, but not... you know."

[Sassy]

Buffy frowned, "It's weird but I'm glad he desided to stay. I mean sure, things are a little complicated now but I'll live. Plus he's been able to give us info." Buffy pauses, "Thats really the only time we see each other, you know unless its the end of the world."

[scarybunny]

Willow tried to lighten the mood. "Hmm, that always works." She smiled a little. She sighed, this were way complicated. In Buffy world, but in Willow world? She was actually doing okay. She was doing well in school, she hung out with her friends and she was doing great with Oz. Nothing to spoil the moment. She just felt sorry for Buffy. Buffy world was morbid.

[Sassy]

Buffy shrugged, "I just wonder if maybe it would have been best if I had let him leave like was going to." Buffy states looking around for some vampires.

[scarybunny]

"Oh, Buffy, that would've just been-been weird if he had left. Sunnydale without Angel. Not Sunnydale." She scanned the area for vamps.

Angel hit the punching bag again. And again and again. He was sweaty and tired but he was used to it. There hadn't been a lot of vampire activity so he had just been working out mostly. He then looked around at his mansion. He tried to think about fighting but all he could think of, was her. Buffy.

[Sassy]

Buffy smiled, "I know. But it's just hard. The whole we can see each other but not really thing." Buffy states, "So no vamps. You wanna call Xand and see if he'll meet us at the Bronze?"

[scarybunny]

"Not now, I'm seeing him tomorrow,and anyway, "Willow smiled. "He's probably already fallen asleep watching bad movies." She giggled. "Hey, you know, I think I'm gonna bail tonight, sleepy. So I'll see you tomorrow for the weekly Scooby Meeting at Giles' aka 'The give Giles something to do and not let him feel left out meeting'." Willow said.

[Sassy]

Buffy frowned, "Okay. I'll go see if Angel knows anything I guess. Maybe if he does I can get it taken care of tonight." Buffy states, "I'll walk you back though, in case some vamps deside to give you trouble."

[scarybunny]

Willow walked to her front door with Buffy. "Okay. Well, hope you get some vamp action." Willow thought about it. "Oh! N-Not the action meaning..." She sighed. "Goodnight. See ya." She opened the door and closed it behind her.

[Sassy]

Buffy walked to the mansion. Then she knocked on the door, waiting for Angel to answer. She knew that it was going to be weird, like it had been.

[scarybunny]

Angel heard a knock and put on his shirt. He walked over to the door and opened it. He was surprised. "Buffy. Hi. Uh, come in." He walked away from the door and waited for her to come in.

[Sassy]

"Angel, hi." Buffy says walkng in, "Um I was wondering if you knew of anything going down anytime soon?" Buffy says, desiding that it was best to get to the point.

[scarybunny]

"Going down?" Angel shook his head lightly. "I'm at a loss at this whole thing. Vampire activity down." He sat down on a couch. "Uh, is that really why you're here?" He asked softly and simply.

[Sassy]

"So nothing happening that you are aware of?" Buffy then hears his question and frowned, "Yeah, did we agree that it was pretty much only slaying is the only time we should even be near each other?" she asks softly.

[scarybunny]

Angel looked down. "We agreed." He looked back up at Buffy but quickly turned away. "If that's all..Maybe you should head home, get some rest."

[Sassy]

Buffy sighed, "Actually I'll probably go back on patrol. It's too early to go home yet."

[scarybunny]

"Fair enough." Angel stood up. "Don't let me get in your way." He tried to say it softly but it came out a tad rough. He turned away from her.

[Sassy]

Buffy frowned, confused as to what she'd said, "Angel?"

[scarybunny]

"It's nothing. Just having second th- You know, it doesn't matter. You should go." Angel dodged.

[Sassy]

"Having second thoughts?" Buffy finished for him, "About what, staying in Sunnydale?"

[scarybunny]

"Look, Buffy, this wasn't exactly the plan." Angel said. "I-It's nothing, okay?" Angel exhaled (lol). "I just, go home."

[Sassy]

"What wasn't the plan? You mean there was a plan?!" Buffy asks angrily,m "Angel what are you talking about?"

[scarybunny]

"No, just forget it Buffy, not now." Angel made his voice a little harder and louder, trying to end the subject. He turned away from her. "Please, just go."

[Sassy]

Buffy frowned, unsure what was going on, "No. There was a plan? A plan that involves me but I'm never let in on?"

[scarybunny]

"No, it never involved you and that is the problem!" Angel frowned. "I'm sorry,Buffy..." He walked closer to her. "Buffy... I didn't mean, I thought... Buffy."

[Sassy]

Buffy frowned, "Angel what is going on?" she asks softly, finally giving up on the anger.

[scarybunny]

Angel felt the tears form in his eyes. He wanted to hug her and make it all better, but he knew that he couldn't. "Buffy..." He moved closer. "I'm sorry,it's not like that at all. Look, I think you should leave, go home, forget about all this, I shouldn't have said that. I'm sorry."

[Sassy]

Buffy shook her head, "No, Angel, it's fine. But what is going on?"

[scarybunny]

"Nothing is going on, Buffy." Angel said softly and nearly as a whisper. "You just need to rest." Angel smiled a tiny tiny smile.

[Sassy]

Buffy nodded, "Okay. I'll go home, get some rest then. It's not like anything is happening."

[scarybunny]

Angel leaned in to kiss her goodnight but remembered, no. That would never happen, it couldn't happen. He leaned back. "Goodnight Buffy."

[Sassy]

Buffy frowned, why couldn't it be simple? Why couldn't she save the world and have Angel? "Night Angel." Buffy says heading to the door.

[scarybunny]

Oz heard the alarm go off the next morning but didn't want to get up. He liked the warmth of his bed, although he liked it a lot better when Willow was with him. He finally decided to get up. He got up got dressed and then he walked out of his room.

[Sassy]

Buffy woke up, and got ready. The Scoobie meeting was in almost half an hour.

Xander woke up hearing his alarm. God, he hated it, why couldn't he just go back to sleep. He wouldn't miss anything at the meeting anyhow.

[scarybunny]

Willow got up straight away and met up with Oz in the café. They both walked to Giles' apartment.

Giles prepared tea and biscuits even though he knew they wouldn't be drinking or eating them. Giles heard a knock at the door. he hurried over and found Willow and Oz standing there. "Uh, hello, come in, come in."

[Sassy]

Buffy ran into Xander as they both headed to Giles', "Sorry Xand."

"No problem. So anything new?" Xander asks as they walked up the stairs and knocked on the door.

[scarybunny]

Giles let Buffy and Xander inside. "Vampire and demon activity is at a record low. I say, we panic. Something-"

"Oh, it's always something, you can never just accept that maybe nothing is going on can you?" Willow said jokingly.

[Sassy]

Buffy sighed, sitting down next to Xander, "I actually agree with Giles. I talked to Angel, he didn't know anything."

"So Deadboy strikes out again." Xander quips.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordelia checked her relfection in the mirror of her car one last time. She pursed her lips together, and ran a hand throug her long dark hair. Once happy she got out of the car and headed to Giles. She knew she was late, but this was cordy after all and appreance was everything. She wasnt sure what the scoobie meeting was about anyway...but it was a chance to see Xander again. theyd been gettin on well latley, but still she wished her parents handt screwed things up and she could have headed to LA...but no, she was stuck in Sunnydale...She sighed as she knocked on the door, waitng for Giles to open it.


Riley, moved to sit next to Buffy. He planted a soft kiss on top of her head. "you saw Angel last night?" He asked, not sure if he sould feel hurt or jealous. ((I assume they are together at this point...if not ignore this post..lol)) "you should have called i would have come over" He told her. "We could have done something together last night"

Faith blikned once, twice...She moaned a little and then struggled to sit up....and that when all the memories hit her....she knew where she was...and why....She sat up eventually, and pulled all the wires out of her, which set off an array of machines. She ignored them, and let her bare feet slip out of her bed and onto the cold hospital floor...with in minutes she was out of her room and down the hallway, slipping past the nurses. Once out side, she found some clothes and dressed. She wasnt sure how much time had passed, or what she would do now...but she had to find out.

[scarybunny]

Giles heard another knock at the door and counted everyone in the room. Everyone was here. Who could it be? He opened the door and low and behold it was Cordelia. "Cordelia?"

[Sassy]

Buffy smiled at Riley, "Just to talk, see if he knows anything." she states, wishing things weren't so complicated.

[Cordelia_Chase]

"What?" Cordy asked as she brushed past giles and Brezzed in. "I take a summer vacation and when i come back im suddnly not part of the group..." She asked as she walked in and saw everyone. "I mean this is sunnydale right...still all hellmouthy...so here i am ready to help...and oh...theres accutally tea and biscutes at these meetings....how come we didnt get this in the library?" She asked taking a seat.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley wasnt sure if he believe Buffy. He wanted too. But he knew about her and Angels deep and complicated past. "Ok" He said as she slipped his hand into hers and then looked as Cordelia came in. he didnt really know the girl. "Is she always like this?" He whispered to Buffy.

[Sassy]

Buffy could tell that Riley didn't believe her, "Yes, she usually is." she answer then whispers, "You don't have to worry about Angel, he is in the past. You are now."

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley squeezed her hand as she spoke the words he wanted to hear. He then looked at Giles. "So whats up?" He asked, "Now everyone is here, we can start" He aimed that last retort at Cordy.

Cordelia ignored him and took a seat next to Xander. She then looked over at everyone. "Ok im here, start already, beofre Solider boy here has to go shine his boots or soemthing" She flippantly replied.

[Sassy]

Buffy smiled at Riley then turned to Cordy, "Cordelia do you think you could be on time every once in a while?"

"Buff, calm down. We had only been waiting a few minutes anyhow." Xander states.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordelia glaired at Buffy "well some of us acctually have pride and take care in our appreacne...seem you....well...lets just say not all of us roll out of bed and..." She stopped as she heard Xander sticking u for her.She looked at him and sent him a smile "Thanks"

[Sassy]

Buffy was about to say soething when Xander stopped her.

"Buff you look fine. Both of you do. Now can you guys stop arguing?" Xander asks, "What do we know? Anything on your side Riley?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley was watching the interaction between Buffy and Cordelia and it took him a few seconds to answer Xander. "No, like Giles said be for, its quite on all fronts..which ok from my point of view is good...but for some reason you guys dont seem to like it when the hellmouth has no activity" He said and looked over to Giles.

Cordelia sat back in a huff. She flciked her long dark hair over her shoulder, and let the demon talk begin.

[Sassy]

"Well it would be a good thing. But usually it gets really bad right before something big happens, usually really bad too." Buffy explains to her boyfriend.

Xander looked at Cordy, "You okay?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley nodded. "well i can send out extra patrol teams, if anythig is lurking out there, we'll find it"

Cordy looked at Xander. "Im fine" She told him. She really had no idea why no one didnt take her seriously. She did after all play her part in the gang. She helped out..she saved the world.

Faith went to the only place she knew....She wasnt sure if shed be thrwon back out...but she needed to try...so she headed to Angels mansion. Once there...she knocked on the door, beofre letting herself in.

[Sassy]

"Won't that get you in trouble though?" Buffy asks concerened.

"Whats up?" Xander asks, knowing soething was wrong with Cordy.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley shook his head. "Nah, the boys are getting itchy feet anyway...we've had filed guys out, guys out in civies for days, but nothing...to night i'll extend the peramiter and make sure everything is checked out. Professor Walsh will agree to it....we cant risk any suprises Buffy" He told her.

Cordelia shifted so she was closer to Xander, and she could talk to him with out everyone over hearing. "I just feel under apreicated, i mean Xander i help out!" She exclaimed. "And i go away for a few weeks, and its like everythings changed"

[Sassy]

Buffy nodded, "Okay, if you're sure."

Xander frowned, "It's not only you Cordy. Buffy has been doing the same to all of us." He whispers so the others don't hear.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley nodded. "I am" He lent forward and kissed her lightly. "And if your a good girl, i might let you come out and patrol with me" He teased.


Cordelia looked suprised at Xanders comment. "really?" She asked. "I mean i know Buffy can be a bit self obessed, but doing the same to you guys" She shook her head and sighed. She really didnt get it.

[scarybunny]

Angel opened his eyes lazily. He had heard a knock on the door. He slowly got up out of bed and then threw himself into a corner since sunlight was streaming through the front door. He saw the brunette walk in without invitation. "Faith."

[Sassy]

Buffy smiled, "But I'm always goood."

"Yeah, with the whole thing with Riley we have pretty much been ignored." Xander answers.

[scarybunny]

Willow turned Xander. "So are you free tonight? Oz is playing at the Bronze." She said as she held Oz's hand.

[Sassy]

Xander looked at Willow, "I'll be there." then he turned Cordelia, "Are you coming with?"

[scarybunny]

"Great!" Willow said brightly. "So Giles. Anything goin' on?"

Giles looked up at Willow. "Uh..."

"No? Great!" Willow interrupted. She got up and so did Oz. "Study jam."

[Sassy]

Buffy looked over as Willow and Oz got up, "The meetings over?" she asks, confused.

[scarybunny]

"Giles?" Willow looked over at Giles.

Giles sighed. "Go on. Away with you. Unless Buffy, how was your patrol last night. Anything out of the ordinary besides no vampires?"

[Sassy]

Buffy sighed, "Nothing. And Giles are you sure that nothing is coming up. I mean I didn't even see any demons. Or anyone besides Willow."

[scarybunny]

"Buffy, yes i wish something evil was happening as well, maybe something that will lead to an apocalypse but it looks like thats not going to happen right now." Giles said smiling at his sarcasm.

[Sassy]

Buffy rolled her eyes at her watcher, "No, Giles I think something is going to happen. I mean it does everyother time it gets this quiet."

[scarybunny]

"Well-well I think until we know for sure something is happening we should just go about our business." Giles said.

"Agreed." Oz said.

"Also with Oz." Said Willow

[Sassy]

Buffy sighed, "Okay. But you'll look into it?"

Xander stood up, "I'll meet you guys at the Bronze later. I have a job interveiw to go to."

[scarybunny]

"Of course." Giles said as he nodded.

Willow took Oz's hand and pulled him out the door. "See you all tonight!"

[Sassy]

Buffy followed the rest of the Scoobies out of Giles' appartment, "Giles call if you have any news."

Doyle headed to the mansion he knew Angel was staying at.

[scarybunny]

"Faith... You're... Back?" Angel squinted. Was he dreaming? He stayed carefully out of the sunlight. She didn't say anything. I must be hallucinating.

[Sassy]

Doyle knocked on the vampire's door, "Come on answer the door already." he says impaiently, wondering what was taking Angel so long.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Faith walked in. "the one and only" She told Angel with a smirk. Which soon faded. "I woke up....and you know what...all that sleeping beauty stuff...all a bunch of crap...no pricne charming woke me up" She said as she walked furth in and idly ran her finger over the fire place....then she heard some one knock on the door. "Geez some ones Mr popular"

Cordy looked at everyone. "What its over already? Gezz seriously, what was the point" She huffed, then looked at Xander. "Sure Bronze later i'll be there...and im guessing you want me to pick you up?" She teased. "And good luck...with the job interview"

Riley walked out of Giles place with Buffy. "So now what Buff? We have no classes and well, the rest of the day looms ahead,what you wanna do?"

[Sassy]

Buffy sighed, "Well mom has been wanting us to come over. Are you up for it?"

"Thanks Cordy. I've still got some time to kill before the interveiw though." Xander says, hopeing that they could talk.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley slipped his arm around and Buffy and pulled her in. "An afternoon with the Summers Women, i can think of nothing id rather be doing" He said and kissed her gently on her nose before taking her hand and leading her to his jeep.

Cordy nooded as she walked out to her car. "Ok, sure...expresso pump?" she asked. "I could use some decent american coffee, i mean i know Giles is all british and with the tea and all, but ew..." She said as she dug in her purse for her keys.

[Sassy]

Buffy smiled as she got in the jeep, "She still isn't exactly used to me never being home thing yet. I think she wants us to come over for dinner at least once a week."

Xander nodded, "Expresso Pump sounds good."

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley got into his car, and glacned over at his girlfeind. "I think i can mange that" He said and drove her home.

Cordy drove them to the expresso pump...once parked up she and xander headed inside and ordered. "So..." She said looking at him once the waitress had taken their order and they were left alone.

[Sassy]

"So what was I saying before plans for the Bronze was made?" Xander asks Cordelia.

Buffy hoped out of the jeep, "So do you have to go in for a meeting or whatever today or do I get you to myself?" she asks Reily.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley smiled at her. He loved it when they had alone time. "Nope, im all you're today" He told her, as he smoothed back a stray strand of her blonde hair.

Cordy looked at him, "We were talking about how unapriceated we were. How Buffys gone all....." she bit down on her lip trying to think of a word. "well like you said since Riley...." Cordy trailed off as there coffees were brought over. "So Xand...did you miss me while i was gone?" She teased, Cordy had spent her summer once more skiing in Aspen...and now she was back and like the others, apart from Xander enrolled at UC Sunnydale.

[Sassy]

Buffy smiled happily, "Yay!" she says going to the door.

"Since Reily and the Inisitve thing." Xander says, "Actually I did, it's been too queit without you."

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley walked with Buffy to her front door. "Something smells good..Joyce must be expecting us" He told her.


Cordy smirked at him. "well i'll take that as a compliment." She said as she reached for her muffin. "So tell me about this job interview."

[Sassy]

"She must be." Buffy says as the door opens.

"Hello Buffy and Riely." Joyce says as she lets them inside.

"It was meant to be a compliment. The interview is for a desk job. I'll be typing and talking most of the day." Xander says.

[Cordelia_Chase]

"Joyce, always nice to see you" Riley said with a smile as Buffys mom greeted them and let them in. He walked into the living area, and let the two women hug etc. He then sat on the couch and stretched out his long legs, and waited them to join him.

Cordelia rasied a eyebrow. "So you mean you can actually type?" She teased.Then she looked at him. "But seriously Xander, a desk Job..." She shook her head. "Its just......not you" She told him.

[scarybunny]

Angel didn't understand. Faith was back. "Faith." He blinked a couple of times... He thought she was in a coma that she wouldn't be coming out of any time soon.. he didn't know what to say. He had heard the knock. But honestly he didn't know whether it was Buffy or anyone and he didn't want anyone to be in harm's way. With faith here, she could do anything to anyone. He did not answer it.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Faith raised a eyebrow at Angel. "What not in the mood for visitors?" She smikred. "I dont blame you" She said as she shivered and moved closer to the fire.

[Sassy]

Doyle knocked on the door again, growing impaitant.

Buffy went and sat down next to Reily.

"I'll go in and finish up lunch." Joyce says heading into the kitchen.

"Well it's just temperary until I can find a better one." Xander states.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley smiled as Buffy came and sat next to him, and Joyce went to finish lunch. He then let into her and kissed her. "So you and i gonna get some alone time before we head out on patrol?" He whispered into her ear, as he tucked a stand of her blonde hair behind her ear.

Faith heard the knock again. "want me to asnwer that? MAke up some excuise and get rid of them?" She asked.

Cordelia took a bite of her muffin, and looked at him. "Well rather you than me." She told him. "So where is your interview, want me to drop you there?" She asked as she ran a hand through her long hair which she wore down. "I mean, thats the only reason you're still friends with me right...im like your personal cab" She teased.

[Sassy]

Buffy smiles, "I definently see that happening." Buffy whispers back.

"No, Cordy I'm your friend because I need somone to annoy no that Deadboy is out of the gang." Xander teased.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordelia lent forward and playfully hit him. "hey...." She said, but she had to admit, it was fun to be around Xander. he made her smile. She missed him in away.

Rilay smiled at his girlfriend. "good" He told her.

[Sassy]

"Hey! You aren't supposed to hit people Cordy." Xander says with a smile.

Buffy thinks for a minute, "I'm supposed to meet Willow and Xander at the Bronze tonight. You wanna come with?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

"Im not...im hitting you, theres a difference Xander" Cordy playfully teased.

Riley nodded. "I might pop by after ive patroled. I'll have to check in with professor Walsh for a bit"

[Sassy]

"So I'm not a person?" Xander asks, mock hurt.

"Okay. It's just I've already told Wil I'd be there." Buffy says.

[scarybunny]

Angel glanced at the door. He walked over slowly but he didn't let his gaze leave Faith. He opened the door and let in the sunlight. He sidestepped out of the stream. He peaked from the shadows and saw a man. A short, dark haired pale man. "Who are you?" He asked in a monotone.

[Sassy]

"My name is Doyle. I work for the Powers That Be. Their messenger, I guess." Doyle says stepping inside.

[scarybunny]

"Powers that Be. They sent you here." Angel glanced at Faith. "Now." Angel didn't know what to say. This strange man comes says these things. "Uhh... Could you maybe come back another time?"

[Sassy]

Doyle shook his head, "No. They sent me here, now. And I'm not leaving until you get on the right path."

[scarybunny]

"That's... I have company." Angel said in a soft whisper to Doyle. "She's... not...good."

[Sassy]

Doyle shrugged, "Well I'm not going to suffer another mind numbing headach. So you can listen, get on the right path and I'll leave."

[scarybunny]

Angel raised his eyebrows. "If you have to. Come on in." Angel didn't forget that Faith was still there. He was cautious with every step. She was unpredictable.

[Sassy]

Doyle walked in, "You've gotten off track. You don't care about those you save anymore. You need to interact with humans more."

[scarybunny]

"Well, I guess I have been a little... sidetracked. But..." He looked over at faith again. He didn't feel comfortable talking about himself when she was here. "Doyle, can you wait a moment?" Without waiting for an answer he walked over to Faith. "What are you doing here Faith?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

FAith eyed the new arrivale up and down. He was a funny looking thing, and not american she thought as he spoke in his thick Irish accent. "Powers that be?" She asked as he mentioned them, she then snorted back a laugh. "since when did they care who was on the right or wrong path" She asked, but got no reply. Infact, Angel came over to her and demanded to know why she was here. Her eyes darted away from his and down to her feet...she shifted uncomortably, before taking in a deep breath and looked at the vampire who she had once tried to double cross. "Sleeping beauty finally woke up" She smirked. "And guess what, no prince charming to help me on my way...so here i am big guy" She saw him tense "Ok relax Angel...im over the 'us' phase...you'll never get over Buffy...,but hey i get it, brooding is your thang..." She said and moved away from him. Here she was about to tel lhim why she was here. "I had no where else to go" She said, knowing she shouldnt expect anything from anyone, espically Buffy and her friends...not after what she had done...."I mean everyone deserves a secodn chance right? And who knows more about second chances than you?"


"Buff its ok, go be with you're firends, i can catch up with you later" Riley told her as he squeezed her hand. "I should catch up with Forrest and the others anyway"

cordelia smiled at Xander. Being here with him reminded her of old times, when they were together, as a couple. She missed that...she missed him. But he was the one who ruined it all. Like always he chose Willow and or Buffy over her, and Cordy knew she coulsnt compeat with them. But part of her wondered what would happen if she and Xander tried again....She had loved him. She never told him, and part of her wondered if she had told him those 3 special words if things would have ended differently. "well some people may call you something else...but i....ah, i know you Xand...ur all human" She said and then at the same time as him she lent forward to grab some suger for he drink...their hands touched and she felt that all too familar spark go through her. "Sorry..." She said, but did nothing to move her hand from his.

[Sassy]

Buffy frowned, "Are you sure?"

Xander smiled, "I am gonna take that all human thing as a compliment." he says, not moving away.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley cupped her face and kissed her. "you worry too mcuh Buffy. Its fine...go do that girly thing you and willow do, and i'll meet up with you later" He reassured her.


Cordelia flashed him a smile he knew all to well. "yeah i guess you can" She said as she looked down at his hand which was ontop of hers, and then she lifted her eyes up to meet his. Her heart was racing and she felt like some stupid school girl with a crush. She wasnt sure why....it was Xander....but even still after all this time...he still made her feel, like she still wanted to be with him...and Cordy wasnt sure what to do about or with these feelings that kept bubbling to the for front of her mind.

[Sassy]

"I probably do." Buffy states, "And Xander will be there so it won't be too girly.....I think."

"So did you have fun without us this summer?" Xander asks.

[scarybunny]

Angel looked her in the eyes. "Faith, you've already ruined your second chance. More than once. I tried to help you, so did Buffy, but you screwed it up." He said this with a hardness in his voice that even he was frightened of.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley nodded. "Buffy i'll be fine...Xanders cool....i think." He said, he did like all of Buffys friends, but at times found it hard to fit in.

"I was skiing, and shopping, and there were no demons, no vampires, which meant i didnt break any nails and none of my clothes got ruined..so yeah...i had fun..." Cordy teased.

FAith heard the new harshness in his voice, and she didnt even flinch. Angel didnt scare her....not much scared FAith. "Ok...well havent you just gone all soft...i mean i expected more Angel...after all you did...how many chances were you given, i mean you messed up big style...hell you scrwed Buffy...killed Giles bit of stuff...and yet now your all goody goody again they welcome you with open arms...so ok i messed up...i did really bad things...i get that....but no cuz i dont dress in black and brood..." She looked down at her black out fit..."Ok cuz i dont brood about it, means i dont get chance after chance...well fine..." She said and turned to leave. But stopped. "I expeacted more from you Angel...but even now...you're still under the thimb..." She shook her head.

[scarybunny]

Angel saw Faith turn to leave and he sighed. Everything she had said was true. He shouldn't have been so harsh on her. He was just shocked by seeing her, he immediately thought she was... bad. But hey, that had happened to him on more then one occasion. "Wait, Faith!"

[Sassy]

Buffy smiled slightly, "Don't tell me you are jealous of Xander." she teased.

"So you got to stay all perfect. No wonder the world didn't end." Xander teased.

[Cordelia_Chase]

FAith stopped by the door and turned to look at Angel. "Look i got it..im bad evil faith..its ok im going....u can carry on with ur happily ever afters.." She said to him.

Riley pulled a face. "Me, jealous of Xander....Ur kidding right?" He wasnt. He just wanted to be the main man in her life...but he knew that would never happen.

Cordelia laughed at xander. "well what can i say..." She said then finished her drink.

[Sassy]

Buffy nodded, "Yes, Riely I am. You being jealous of Xand would be too wierd. Besides from what I saw at the meeting it looks like him and Cordy wanna get back together."

Xander finished his drink, "Now that you are back though does that mean that the world will almost end?"

[scarybunny]

"Where are you going to go? What are you going to do? I've taken the liberty to not kill you. What do you think Buffy or Willow will do to you?" Angel said. It would turn out bad if faith went to Buffy.

[Cordelia_Chase]

"Cordelia and Xander? Well either Xanders a saint, or he mad...i mean Cordy is high maintance...and from what you said things didnt end well the first time...ok i get it Xanders plane crazy right?" Riley asked with a smirk.

Cordelia looked at him. "Well we do live on a hellmouth Xander...im sure were due another apocolypes at any time..." She teased.

Faith looked at Angel. "What do you care?" She asked, not caring that he let her live. If he wanted to kill her, hed have one hell of a fight on his hands. And she wasnt stupid..shes wasnt going to Buffy. "I'll fiugre it out, im a big girl..i can deal"

[scarybunny]

Angel closed his eyes then opened them again. "Faith... I care..."

[Sassy]

Buffy shruged, "It ended the last time because of Xander. Cordy is okay, she just gets on my nerves sometimes. Kinda reminds me of what I used to be like."

"And here I thought it was just you that made Sunnydale so weird." Xander teased with a smile.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Faith sighed. "well thanks for caring...but i'll be ok....besides you got Irish there to deal with...you lost ur path remember, and im pretty sure im not the turning you need to take on that rocky road to redemtion"

"Well good luck to them both" Riley said. "Im just happy that ive got my girl" She said and squeezed her hand.

"me!" cordy exclaimed and pouted as if he had hurt her feelings, but she coulsnt help but giggle.

[Sassy]

Buffy smiled, "You say that now."

Xander laughed, "Hey I state things as I see them.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley raised a eyebrow at her. "Meaning?" He questioned.

cordelia shook her head and smiled at him, her long dark hair falling across her shoulders. "Ok...so i guess we should get you to this interview" She said, althought shed love to stay talking with him.

[Sassy]

"Just that as bad as Cordy is or was I was ten times worse before I became the slayer." Buffy answers.

Xander sighed, "But do I have to?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley chuckled. "that i can beleive" He said planting a soft kissinto her hair. "But look at you now, all grown up and perfect in everyway"

Cordy looked at him. "well i cant make you...but you need a job Xander....its either go to the interview or spend all afternoon shopping and hanging out with me" She smirked.

[Sassy]

Buffy pretended to be offended, "You can belive I was a total brat?" Then she hears the rest, "I'm not so sure about perfect but thanks."

"Is it sad that I'd rather skip the interveiw and put up with you?" Xander teased.

[Cordelia_Chase]

"to mee you are" Riley told her.

Cordy looked at him. "no, its not sad at all, and i really dont blame you, i mean it is me after all. " She teased back.

[Sassy]

Buffy blushed slightly, "Then Riley Finn you are delutional. Not that I'm gonna complain."

Xander laughed, "No, you wouldn't mind. Because then you'd have someone to carry your bags."

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley chuckled at her. "i think i'll be the judge of that" He told her.

Cordy smiled. "Ahh...good point...i do need a PA...and i think you'll do" She teased him.

[Sassy]

Buffy sighed, "I'm gonna go see if mom needs any help, okay?"

Xander shakes his head, "So now I'm your personal assistant?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley nodded. And let buffy head off to help Joyce.

Cordy nodded. "well what else do you wanna be?" She playfully asked.

[Sassy]

Buffy walked into the kitchen and helped her mother cook while the two got caught up.

"Superman." Xander says.

[scarybunny]

Angel paused. "Maybe you are." He said to Faith. He didn't like to admit it, but he had always had a semi-soft spot for Faith. He didn't know why, But he just did. He actually wanted to help her.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Faith looked at him, suprise filled her features. "what?" She asked as she took a few steps back towards him. "you....mean that?" She asked one eybrow rasied, not sure if he was for real.

Cordy laughed at him. "you never change...so come on Clark Kent, lets get you to that interview"

[scarybunny]

Angel tried not to show how much he really wanted to help this girl,but it just sort of leaked out. "I mean that."

[Sassy]

Xander laughed as they went out to the car. Xander opened Cordy's door with a flurish, "There you go madem." he says with a goofy grin.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Faith was suprised by this. She had never in her life let anyone in, or let anyone help her. She was a lone horse. The less people in her life the better. She walked towards him. "So tell me champ...why the change of heart?"

Cordelia smiled as Xander being Xander mucked about and opend her door. "thanks" She told him as she started the car and waited for him to get in the otherside, and then drove him off to his interview.

[scarybunny]

"Does it help to know I don't have one?" Angel said with a slight, very slight smile. "I know you can change." His kept his face neutral but steady and firm on Faiths.

[Sassy]

Buffy walked into the living room, "Mom is finishing up lunch. It should be ready in a few." she says as she sits down next to her boyfriend.

Xander sighed, he didn't really want to go to the interveiw. "I'll see you later at the Bronze?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley looked up and put down a copy of some mag he was glcking through. "ok, is there anything i can do to help?" He asked.

Cordy nodded. "Yeah i'll see you later" She said and went to lean into kiss him, i mean its what she use to do, and being with him today had remeinded her of the old days....but she stopped herself. "Good luck" She told him.

Faith studied Angel for a second. She wasnt sure to believe him or not.She wanted to be able to change. "And what will B think for you helping me uot...cuz you know, shes not exactly presidant of the 'i love Faith fan club'.

[Sassy]

Buffy shrugged, "Mom kicked me out of the kitchen, said she'd get the rest."

Xander smiled, "Thanks. See you later." he says before giving her a quick kiss and heading in to the interveiw.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley nodded. "So i get you tomyself for a few minutes then" He said as he lent into kiss her.

Cordy watched Xander go and after a moment she drove off.

[Sassy]

Buffy smiled, "I could get used to that." she states, before kissing him.

[Sassy]

After they had left her mothers house Buffy and Riley had spent the day together. Buffy started to get ready to go to the Bronze.

Xander thought he had done pretty well at the interview and had now stoped at the Expresso Pump.

Doyle had told Angel he'd be by the next day before heading home.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley was in his doom room on campus. He had spent the rest of the day with Buffy. He got up off his bed, wearing nothing but his boxers. He glanced over at Buffy who was dressed in on of his shrits and he loved how good it looked on her. A smile corssed his face as he lent over and kissed her gently, beofre mvoing away and heading for the shower.


Faith watched as Doyle left. She had no clue who he was or what he wanted. Once he left she looked at Angel. "So what happens next champ?" She asked.

Cordelia had recieved Xanders call,asking her to meet him back at the expresso pump. So she sat at a table, and waited for him, ancious to hear his news.

[Sassy]

Buffy smiled before getting up, "So you'll meet us there later?"

Xander walked up to Cordy, "I think I did okay at the interveiw." he says sitting down.

[Cordelia_Chase]

"I'll be there after ive patroled" Riley reasued her.

Cordy looked up as Xander came and sat by her. "you did...Xander thats great" she said smiling and she lent into hug him.

[Sassy]

Buffy smiled happily, "I'll see you then."

Xander hugged her back, "So what did you do today?"

[scarybunny]

Angel kept staring at Faith, still amazed at how she had woken up and actually, kind of agreed to let him help her. "It's not gonna be easy, Faith." He said softly. "You've done a lot of... things. Things that can't be forgiven. But you can make up for that, not be forgiven, that can never happen, but to at least show you care."

[Cordelia_Chase]

Faith moved over to the couch and sat down. He rubbed her temles them moved her hand through her hair beofre leaning back and looking at Angel. "Dont you think i know that" She told him as she corssed her long legs. "Ive got a lot to make up for, and forgivness is something i dont expect from anyone. Espically B after everything i did to her." She said. "So dont sweat it hot stuff...i can deal" She told Angel.

[scarybunny]

Angel sighed and sat down next to her. "So what is it you want to do?" For a moment he stared at the empty fireplace thinking about how things went about last time he had tried to help her. No. Focus on the present. He turned and looked at her.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Faith didnt look at Angel for a long while. She felt his gaze apon her, and soon she shifted her eyes from her feet to his eyes. "i dont know" she said her voice a husky whisper. "Im new to all this remember"

[scarybunny]

"I remember." He said softly. "Well, let's start off with how much you remember of what happened before your...hiatus."

[Cordelia_Chase]

Faith took in a long breath. "everything" She told him. "I remember working for the mayor...using you, tricking you and B....the assensition,well talk of it...then the fight with Buffy. She got me good i gues..." Faith said as her hand automatically went to her stomach and the patched up wound on it."And im not proud of any of what i did Angel"

[scarybunny]

"I'm glad you know that, Faith." He looked down at her stomach when she touched it. His mind went reeling back to that night when Buffy had told him that she had "killed" Faith but that he had to drink from her. The woman which he loved. The only thing he loved in this world.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Faith let her mind wonder back to that night. She too know If she handt had jumped of the roof of her appartment building, Buffy would have fed her to Angel...Faith would have died that night. But she handt, she had gone into the coma...and here she was....months later...awake and here, trying to trun her life around, to be good. And she knew if anyone could help her it would be Angel. She looked over at him "So Dr Phil, you really think you can fix me?"

[scarybunny]

The pun wasn't lost on him and he was glad he didn't blush easy. He ignored the Dr. Phil fun. "Do you want my help?" He was seriously serious about this question. It was pivotal that he get a straight and honest answer. It was the only way he could know that she really wanted to change.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Faith could tell by the tone of Angels voice he was serious. She shifted in her seat, feeling a little uncomfratbale. She wasnt use to getting second chances. People tended to give u on her after the first hurdel...but here was Angel, willing to give her that helping hand, to let her have that second chance so many others hand shunned her with. So she looked at him, her eyes intently set on his. "Yes...i want your help" She told him, meaning it.

[scarybunny]

Angel looked into her eyes in return and saw her soul. He was only a little surprised to see it, but he always knew she had it in her. "Do you have some place to stay where the cops can't find you?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

Faith ran her hand though her messed up hair and stood up. "No...but i'll find soemthing, a motel, there planet around" She told him. Truth was she hadnt thought that far a head.

[scarybunny]

Angel sighed. Of course, she had just woken up, it's not like she had anything planned. "Well, I have plenty of space here. If you ever need somewhere to stay. The cops haven't been here, they don't usually visit, and it's very discreet for a mansion. But... you know, only if you can't find anywhere else safe to stay."

[Cordelia_Chase]

Faith nodded. "Thanks" She said. She really appericated it. But she didnt want to be any kind of burden to anyone. She knew she didnt deserve anyones help. "I guess i should go find someplace to live then...." She said and headed towards the door.

[scarybunny]

Angel stood up. "Faith. Feel free to come over any time. I'll be here." He smiled. Well, slightly. She had a long road in front of her and it wasn't ending any time soon. He started thinking of ways she may better herself. Maybe control her desires and her incredible Slayer strength.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Faith turned and nodded,at Angel. Before she walked out of his mansion. Once outside faith took in a dee breath. She for now was undecided if she would take up Angels offer to help her. Part of her thought about just leaving Sunnydale, finding some place new to live, a real fresh start. She lent against Angels door, for now well and truley confused.

[scarybunny]

Angel had turned around but he could still feel and smell her presence. He didn't speak and sat down and picked up his novel 'Les Misérables' since he hadn't yet finished it for the tenth time.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Faith finally moved away from Angels mansion and headed into town. She needed to find a place to stay. And well...a job since money or lack of would now be an issue also.

[scarybunny]

Faith had left. Into the sunlight. He got up and walked over to the door and closed it. He went back to his couch and read. His mind though was on Faith. Could she really do this? His answer was yes. If she tried, she could eventually redeem herself.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordelia had dropped Xander home she was going to meet him later on that night. So she dropped her car off at the shop for some work it needed doing and decided to walk home. She headed the through the ally taking the short cut as she wanted to head home and deep condition her hair and pick out the perfect outfit for her night at the bronze. As she turned in to the ally, she shuddered. "Chill Cor..its day light." She said knowing if she was that uneasy about it she should head the long way home, but she just didnt have the time...so she took in a breath and headed down the ally.

At the other end of the ally was Faith...She had her hands dug into her pocket. She looked up and saw someone coming her way. "Perfect" She muttered, as she looked around. She needed money, and no one else was around. Faith knew she had to becareful. The cops didnt know she was awke, or if they did by now they had no clue to where she was, and she wanted to keep it that way. So she ducked behind a giant trash disposal and waited for her victim. As she ehard the sound of high heels come closer she readied herself and once the time was right she jummeped out at the unspecting victim.

Cordelia got jumped. She was not expexcting it. She cried out as some one reached for her bag. "Get off!" She said trying to keep her bag, but her attacker wasnt having any of it. Cordy got punched, the punch slpit her lip and she fell to the floor.

Faith didnt want to hurt the woman. The punch had been a nessesity. The girl fell to the floor. Faith flinched as she saw the blood on her hands and she knew the girls face would be brused as hell in the morning. "i...." She started to say, but stopped as the brunette lifted her head up, and moved her long dark hair out of the way and Faiths eyes widens as she realsied who it was. "Cordelia" She whispered, "Sorry...." She said then turned in the other direction and ran.

Cordelia saw who her attacker was. Shock filled her. Tears spilled down her cheeks as she was left on her own. She picked herself up, and brushed her skirt off..and headed to the close place to her. Angels mansion. Once there she knocked on his door. She knew she was a mess. Her clothes dirty, her hair a mess, her lip bleeding and her face brused.

[scarybunny]

Angel heard the urgent knock and put down his novel and walked over to the door and carefully opened the door. "Cordelia!" She had surprised him, she looked like she had just got hit by a car. "Oh my god! Come in."

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordelia had never been so glad to see Angel beofre in her life. She sniffled as he invited her in. Then she just fell into his arms and cried. "Its horrible...its always me...why, im not a bad person..." She sniffed. "I dont deserve this..." She cried, letting the tears flwo down her cheeks. She was also shaking and she huddled into Angel more.

[scarybunny]

Angel was slightly taken aback but knew Cordelia wouldn't go any further. He took a hold of shoulders and gently pushed her away. "What happened?" He asked seeing the tears rolling down her face.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordy finally managed to calm down enough to talk. She looked up at Angel, and wipped her tears away. "Faith" She then managed to say. "She back, and she did this too me, she attacked me" She said and moved past him to sit on his couch.

[scarybunny]

Angel stood there for a moment completely aware of what he had just heard. Yes, it was going to be a rocky road to redemption for Faith, but he couldn't tell anyone, they would never understand and they, namely Buffy, would attack. He acted surprised. "Faith. Faith's awake?" He questioned.

[Cordelia_Chase]

"well Duh!" Cordy said. "Of course shes awake, i mean im not making this up Angel!" Cordelia exclaimed. "Shes awke and im guessing her stint as sleeping beauty did nothing to make her wanna play good gril" Cordelia said. Then sighed and looked down. "Ow...my top....its complealty ruined!"

[Sassy]

Buffy had headed home and gotten ready to go to the Bronze. Then she met up with Xander at their normal table, "So how'd the interview go?"

Xander rolled his eyes, "It went fine. So the rest of the gang is supposed to be here in a few right?"

Buffy nodded, "Yeah."

[scarybunny]

Angel thought about raising his eyebrows at Cordelia but decided against it. "What did Faith want?"

Willow stood outside the back entrance to the Bronze with Oz. She smiled. "Okay, well, I'll see you inside."

Oz smiled at Willow. What an amazing smile she had. "I'll see you."

Willow hugged Oz and then kissed him. She then let go and said, "Bye."

"Bye." Oz watched her until she was out of sight. He was holding his guitar case and as he walked inside to the backstage he met up with Devon.

Willow walked into the Bronze and did a quick sweep of the place and then finally saw Buffy and Xander at the table. She walked over to them and sat down. "Hey guys."

[Sassy]

Buffy smiled as Willow walked to the table, "Hey Will."

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordelia moved her attention from hert top to Angel. "ow should i know...she was after my purse...so money i guess" She said and then just looked compleatly deflated. "Im sorry i burst in on you like this...you were the cloests place....." She stood up. "I should go....im meant to be meeting Xander at the bronze, and now i need to go home and changeand clean up, and hope i have some conceler to hide this" She said poinitng to her black eye.

[scarybunny]

Angel really did raise his eyebrow, but only for a micro second. He looked at her black eye. He knew it wouldn't heal for a few days whereas if it were he sporting the bruise it would clear up that night. He still couldn't believe that someone could think that much about their appearance let alone care. But Cordy was Cordy. And nothing would change that trait, even if it was a dangerous, insane, rogue Slayer that had attacked her or a crazy invisible girl threatening her life. Cordy would probably never change if she couldn't be moved by that stuff. But on the matter of Faith... She was new to this... Of course she would find it difficult at the beginning, in fact it was still hard for Angel, and it always would be for him... Redemption was hard and not to be played with. But Angel would make sure that Faith would get through, no matter how difficult it was. Because... he believed in her. "Look, Cordelia, you don't have to worry about this... alot. I'll handle this. But could you do me a favour? Uh, when you see Buffy and the others... it wouldn't be too hard for you to just keep this whole 'Faith' thing... quiet. Would it?" He knew as he asked this that it would be near impossible for Cordelia to not breathe a word about this to Buffy or the gang, besides questions about her eye, she wouldn't be very hard to crack.

Willow grinned. She always loved it when it was just the gang hanging out and her boyfriend was playing on stage. "Hey. How are you guys? Good day? Mine's been great... Oz and I went to this park, and it was amazing, really green and then we had a smallish picnic and then... well, that basically took up the day but we went back to his dorm and... Again I ask, how are you guys?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

((ooc...cool post))

Cordelia looked at Angel in compleat shock "What?" she asked. "you expect me to not tell buffy that her whacko psycho slayer friend attacked me and did this too me?" She said pointing at her black eye. "i dont think so!" She said as she flciked her long hair over her shoulder, but she caught his looked and let out a long heavy sigh. "Ok fine,i'll keep quiet, and if they asked i'll tell them i didnt see who my attacker was...." She said then looked at Angel closley. "Why all the secrecy Angel?" she asked.

[Sassy]

"Well the interveiw went pretty well. Met Cordy at the Expresso Pump afterwards." Xander answered Willow.

Buffy smiled, "I spent the day with Riley. He is supposed to meet us here later." Buffy paused and frowned, "You guys don't mind do you?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordy dun into her pocked and pulled out her cell phone and dialed Xanders number. Angel was off finding her a new top to wear and she had to let Xander know shed be late.

Faith was annoied at her self. Of all the people to attack it had to be Cordelia. And she knew Cordy had a big mouth,so no doubt Buffy would know she was awake. Faith thought about going back to Angel...but she knew even his mansion was no longer safe. She had to run.

Riley finished up and headed to the bronze to meet Buffy.

[Sassy]

Xander answered his phone, going outside so he could hear. "Hello?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordy heard Xander pick up. "Xander its me..." She told him, still sounding shaken "Something has happend....can you come pick me up?" She asked and mouthed Thanks to Angel as he passed her one of his shirts to wear.

[Sassy]

Xander frowned, "Yeah, where are you? What happened?" Xander asked worried. He went in and told Buffy and Willow that he'd be back then got in the car.

Buffy nodded as Xander came in then left, "What's going on?" she asks Willow, having no idea.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordy went and waited down the street from Angels mansion for Xander to pick her up.

Riley walked in. "Ok,Xanders running out...whats going on?" He asked Buffy as he placed a kiss on her lips, then looked to her and Willow.

[Sassy]

Buffy smiled, "Thats what I'm wondering. He got a phone call then left."

Xander drove to where Cordy was then stopped, "Cordelia what happened?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley rasied a eyebrow. "If it was important, then im sure he wud have told us" he told his girlfriend.

Cordy saw Xander, and moved over to him and hugged him. Shaking still and tears spilled down her face. "I was attacked" She managed to tel lhim.

[Sassy]

"By who?" Xander asks looking towards the mansion, he was going to kill Angel.

"But he just rushed out." Buffy says, frowning.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordy pulled away from him. "I..i dont know" She said, hating lying to him. "Some demon....i think...it just all happen so fast." She said with a sigh. And she was telling the truth mostly. It did happen fast. She smoothed her hair away from her face, wich then revealed the massive bruse which was clearly evident on her cheek now.

[Sassy]

"Cordy what did it look like?" Xander then saw the bruise, and frowned worriedly.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordelia saw the worry in his face. It touched her. she thought he was sweet. She reached out and squeezed his hand. "Im alright...and i dont really remember...please i just want to forget it happend"

[Sassy]

Xander nodded, "Okay. Where to next?" he asks her.

[Cordelia_Chase]

"well im not goin to the bronze looking like this" Cordy said flashing Xander a smile, hoping she was covering up how she really felt. "So back to mine so i can change i guess"

[Sassy]

Xander nodded, getting back into the car, "Okay, back to your place then."

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordy let Xander drive her home. And he was kind enough to wait for her to get changed. So she showered re did her hair and make up, and put on a black dress and headed down to meet him. "So....ready..." She said slipping her high heels on.

[Sassy]

Xander smiled, "Okay. Buffy, Willow, and Oz already there." he informed her.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordy nodded. A but hurt he dnt tell her she looked nice. "Ok, lets go then" She said grabbing her house keys and leading him out to his car.

[Sassy]

Xander headed to the car, "You look great by the way."

[Cordelia_Chase]

"I know" Cordy saud sending him a playful smile. "But thanks" She told him. It was just what she needed to hear. So she got into the car and let him drive them to the bronze.

[Sassy]

Xander smiled shaking his head before driving them to the Bronze, "You ready to go in?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordelia nodded, and smoothed down her hair. "Sure" She said and got out the car and walked to the bronze door. Once there she stopped and looked at Xander. She then lent forward and kissed him gently on the cheek. "Thanks you, for coming to get me" She told him.

[Sassy]

Xander smiled, "No problem besides, it'd be kinda boring without Cordelia Chase."

[Cordelia_Chase]

"yeah you got that right" Cordy told him with a smile and they both walked into the bronze.

[Sassy]

Xander laughed and followed her to the table.

"Hey Cordy, Xander." Buffy greets as they walked up to the table.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley looked up and saw Cordy and Xander enter and come over to join them. He then smikred at Xander. "So thats what the call was about...i didnt know you tow were...you know...together....Buffy should really keep me more up to date" He ytold Xander quietly, not having any clue about the real reason cordy had phoned Xander.

Cordy walked over to the group and took a seat. "Hey guys...Nice top Buffy" She said with a smile. She knew they must have been looking at her. She had tired her best to cover up the bruse, but it was still showing. "So....how is everyone?" She asked

[Sassy]

Buffy frowned, "Cordelia what happened?" Buffy asks, a little worried.

Xander was about to answer Riley but then turned as Buffy asked Cordelia what happened.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley looked over to Cordy. "Yeah quite the shiner you got there Cor" He told her. "What happend?" He asked just after Buffy did.

Cordy looked at them all. Normally she loved being center of attention. "I got attacked, but im fine, and no i didnt see who did it, it all happend so fast" She said still keeping her word to Angel and not tellin them Faith was awake and it was her who did this.

[Sassy]

"Demon or human?" Buffy questions, wondering if something was happening after all.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordy looked down, then over to Xander...then to Buffy. "human" She simplt put. And she was telling the truth, for that part anyway.

[Sassy]

Buffy nodded, "Okay."

Xander noticed that Cordy wasn't exactly loving the conversation, "Hey Buff do you think we can change the subject?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordelia flased xander a smile and mouthed 'thanks'. She was glad he spoke up. She really didnt want to talk about the attack.

"Ok, come on Xand, lets go get the ladies some drinks" Riley said and notioned for Xander to join him at the bar.

[Sassy]

Xander nodded, "Okay, we'll go get drinks."

After the guys had left Buffy turned to Cordelia, "So you and Xand seeing each other again?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordelia looked at Buffy. She wasnt sure how to answer that question. "No...i mean he hanst said anything...has he said anyting to you?" She asked. As she liked him alot, and over the last few days, with the more time she spent with him, the more her old feelings for him were re-surfacing again.

Riley stood at the bar. "Hard isnt it...seeing your girl all beat up...i get it pal" He said slapping his shoulder in a friendly gesture. "I get it with Buffy all the time."

[Sassy]

"No, he hasn't said anything to me." Buffy says then looks guilty, "I haven't exactly been around much for him to say anything."

Xander merely nodded, "Yeah, it is."

[Cordelia_Chase]

"She'll be ok. Shes a tought one" Rilely told him then took a sip of his beer. "you ok?" He asked Xander

Cordy nodded. "Well i....i dont know what to do buffy, i like him, but im not sure if its muital, and if he hasnt told you, then im guess not. I mean even if you havent been around as much as you want to, ur still his best friend.

[Sassy]

Xander frowned, "Yeah, why wouldn't I be?"

"I'm sure it is Cordy. As for the whole not being around as much as I want to thing: when I am around it's usually with Riley so not a whole lot of time for talking." Buffy states, why was she telling Cordelia this anyhow?

[Cordelia_Chase]

"Just asking mate" Riley said. Then looked over at Buffy. "Ok, well im gonna get back to my girl.." He said and left Xander at the bar.

Cordy looked at Buffy. They usualy didint talk much. "Im sure they understand" Cordy told her. Then looked up as Riley came back over to join them.

[Sassy]

Buffy didn't agree with Cordy, "I'm not so sure."

Xander got up and took a seat next to Cordelia, "Did we miss anything?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordy sent Buffy a symatheic look. "Now you didnt miss anything" she told Xander as he came and sat next to her. "So whats everyone got planed?"

Riley slipped his arm around Buffy and Pulled her in and kissed her lightly. "Early night" he purred into her ear.

[Sassy]

Xander shrugged, "Not sure."

Buffy smiled at Riley, "I have to patrol later. What about you Cordy?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley smiled at Buffy. "I'll come with"

Cordy shook her head. "Nothing" She told them.

[Sassy]

Buffy frowned, "Riley are you sure you should? What if I run into something big?"

Xander rolled his eyes, "So Cordy wanna dance?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

"Buffy we have had this conversation beofre, i can handel myself...or is it the fact you dont want me coming with you?" Riley asked his girlfriend, a little annoyed.

Cordelia looked at them, then Xander asked her to dace. "Sure" She told him and took his hand as he lead them both to the dance floor. "And just in time, im not in the mood for another Buffy/Riley domestic" She said as they reached the dance floor and Xander pulled her into his arms.

[Sassy]

Buffy sighed, running a hand through her hair, "Riley you know thats not it. Why do you always assume it is?" It seemed like they had this argument everyday.

Xander smiled, "I kinda saw it comeing. Plus I'd rather dance with you."

[Cordelia_Chase]

"Because you always try and stop me from coming with you Buffy." Riley told her looking slightly put out. "look maybe i should just head back to campus" He said really not in the mood for another fight.

Cordelia smiled at him a sshe wrapped her arms around him. "thats the way right answer" she said with a chuckel. And then she was reminded of how good they fitted together back wen they dated in high school, and suddnly she missed that...them...

[Sassy]

Buffy sighed, "Look Riley I'm sorry but you know I don't like putting you or my friends in danger. And as quiet as it's been I'm sure it's gonna be something bad."

Xander smiles, "Well thats good. So what's your plan for tomorrow?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

"you're not putting me in Danger Buffy. I do this too remember" Riley stated.

Cordy danced with him. She shurgged. "Not sure yet...i cant decided between getting my hair done, or my nails" She teased, then looked at him. "What about you?"

[Sassy]

"No, because taking you with me keeps you safe." Buffy says sarcastically. "Riley I get that you want to help, that you do go out and fight. But you usually have a full team for back up. You go with me thats all you have, me. And I can't fight and worry about you too." Buffy sighs, she took Willow with her, yes. But it was during the summer and there was always less trouble in the summer.

Xander rolled her eyes, "Yes, because your hair needs done." he smiles, "I'm not sure what I'm going to do tomorrow." He wouldn't mind meetng up with Cordelia.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordelia playfully hit Xander as he made a comment about her hair. "well if your lucking i might have some free time between appointments so i might be able to let you take me out for lunch"

"Fine" Riley said and then moved away from her. "I guess i'll see you later then" He told her grabbing his jacket and getting ready to head back to his dorm.

[Sassy]

"Cordy, I was being sarcastic about your hair." Xander raises an eyebrow, "So then you are going to let me take you out, huh?"

Buffy frowned, "Riley wait. Look I'm sorry it's just things have been a little weird latly."

[Cordelia_Chase]

"then let me make this normal for you" Riley said still angry and hurt so he walked away.

Cordy looked at him. "you mean like on a date?" She asked

[Sassy]

Buffy sighed before getting up and following Riley, "Do you really think thats what I want? You know it isn't, I just don't want you to get hurt." She really wasn't in the mood to do this right now.

Xander smiled, "Yes, that would be the idea. You saying yes?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordelia bit down on her lip. Trying not to smile while she prelonged giving Xande rher answer. "Yes...its a yes" She told him and then she really did smile at him.

Riley turned to face Buffy. "Buffy i face getting hurt each time i go out. Look you maybe the slayer and all superheroy, but im kinda a action man too remmeber. I can deal with all the evil things that go bump in the night" He told her. "But i get it...you dont want me to patrol with you"

[scarybunny]

Willow frowned at the negative energy coming from Buffy's end of the table. But deep down, and though she never ever wanted to admit it, she knew that Buffy would never have a normal, happy relationship. She hated this thought, but it just kept on crawling back every time and screaming 'I told you so, I told you so!' Willow sighed and then turned and saw Xander and Cordelia dancing. She smiled a little. She looked up on stage and her heart skipped a few. Aw, there was Oz staring and smiling at her whilst playing his guitar. She loved him.

[Sassy]

Xander sighed waiting for Cordy to answer, and smiled when she did, "Okay, any certain place you want to go then?"

Buffy takes a deep breath, calming down, "I'm the slayer, I have to fight. I don't want you to patrol with me, because everytime I take my boyfriend or date with me on patrol they end up getting hurt."

[Cordelia_Chase]

Riley shook his head and reached up to scrathch the back of his head. "Ok i get the point ms independant." He told her. "Look just have a nice night with Willow, im suddnyl not in the mood for the bronze. I'll catch you later" He said and the gave her a rather quick peck on the cheek and left her standing there.


Cordy lent her head on his shoulder as they danced, a slow song had come on indicating the end of the night was soon apone them. "I dont mind...there that new little palce behind the sun cinema we could try" She suggested.

[Sassy]

Buffy sighs, walking back to the table, "Will I think I'm gonna go ahead and go on patrol." Buffy wasn't really in the mood for dancing now.

"Okay, we'll check that place out. What time should I pick you up?" Xander asks Cordelia.

[Cordelia_Chase]

"Not too early" Cordy told him with a smile. "come by mine around 12. Mom and dad will be out so you dont have to worry about meeting or speaking to them" She chuckled.

[Sassy]

Xander laughs, "Okay, you told me to be there at noon. So that means you will be ready at three?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordy moved so she was looking at him now. "Cheeky!" She said with a smile. "I'll be ready at 12....you just wait and see"

[Sassy]

Xander shakes his head, "Uh-huh sure you will. Cordelia Chase ready when she says she will be? Not going to happen." Xander teased.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordy playfull pushed him and as she did the song ended, and the main light went up in the Bronze signaling kicking out time.

[Sassy]

"I'll drive you home." Xander tells Cordy, going to the table, "You need a ride Buff?" Xander knew that Willow would be going with Oz.

Buffy shakes her head, "No, I'm going to go patrol. Bye guys." as Buffy walked away she stopped to talk to Cordy, "So whats going on with you and Xander?"

[Cordelia_Chase]

"Ok let me grab my coat" Cordy told Xander, and as she did Buffy came over to her and asked her about Xander. Cordy slipped on her jacket and looked at Buffy, then over to Xander who was talking to Willow, then back to Buffy. "Hes taking me out for a date tomorrow" She said. "And im looking forward to it, he still give me that good nervous butterfly feeling i use to get when we dated beofre" She honestly told Buffy.

[Sassy]

Buffy smiles, "Good for you guys. I'm happy for you both." Buffy says, honestly.

"You going to wait for Oz?" Xander asks Willow.

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordelia smiled at Buffy. A little suprised. "thanks" She said.

[Sassy]

Buffy noticed Cordy was surpirse, "You're welcome. Just glad most of the gang is happy."

[Cordelia_Chase]

Cordy looked at Buffy. "Most?" She asked. Then she noted Rilety wasnt here. "oh...u ok?" She asked.

[Sassy]

Buffy shrugged, "I'm fine. Riley just doesn't seem to get that I don't want him on patrol with me because he could get hurt."