By
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Disclaimer in index of story
* * * *
Chapter 9
A week later Chance finds herself back in the doctor's office
with Angel. "We almost done?" she asks the doctor impatiently
"Chance" Angel says in warning
She shrugs "I'm hungry"
Angel smiles amused by the tone
"Well that's good. You need to put on some weight"
the doctor informs her "Now we're done." he announces
"How is everything?" Angel asks helping Chance get
off the exam table
"Chance is doing good. Now I made some inquires and here
are a few doctors in Los Angeles who might be of some help." he hands
Angel a piece of paper "Let me know who you decide to go with and I'll
give them a call and send them the paperwork."
"Do you trust them?" Angel asks
"You know doctors are confidential."
"Yes but with this matter I want someone I can trust with
their lives"
The doctor nods "The first five are human doctors who have
some experience with patients of the demon variety. The next are doctors who
are human with no demon patients. They all are good doctors. Just pick someone
you feel like you can trust"
Angel nods "Thank you for all your help" he shakes
the doctor's hand
"Your welcome" Dr Roberts replies "Good luck
Chance"
Chance grins "Thanks."
Angel takes her hand leading her to the door he pauses "If
you need anything let Spike know."
Doctor Roberts nods "Goodbye" he watches as the
vampire and his mate leave the office 'And good luck' he thinks.
* ~ * ~ * ~
An hour later the two are in the car heading towards LA. Angel
looks at Chance and smiles "Where are you putting all that food?" he
asks amused as he watches her eat a double cheeseburger, large fry, large
chocolate milkshake, and chicken nuggets.
Chance shrugs "Babies. Not like its going to be there for
long" she grumbles "everytime I eat I throw up."
Angel tugs on a strand of her hair "Sorry"
She smiles brightly "Don't be." she rubs her abdomen
"Their worth it"
"That they are."
Chance finishes off her food and leans against Angel. She lifts
her shirt looking at her abdomen thoughtfully "I wonder what they'll
be"
"We have a while before we know"
"Yeah I know"
"Why don't you get some sleep." he suggests
"I'm not tired. Tell me a story"
"About what?"
Chance shrugs "Anything" she listens as Angel tells
her about things he had seen over the years.
* ~ * ~ * ~
Just before dawn Angel pulls the car into the parking lot of a
motel. "Chance" he says stroking her hair
"Mmm"
"I'll be back in a minute" he says kissing her cheek
" 'kay." she yawns sitting up she watches sleepily as
Angel enters the building. She feels her stomach clench 'Its OK Daddy will be
back in a sec' she strokes her abdomen waiting patiently for Angel to return. A
few moments later she sees Angel walk out the door to the car
Angel gets into the car "Are you OK?" he asks worried
Chance smiles "The babies missed you." she explains
Angel starts the car pulling into another parking place.
"Lets get in. The sun will be up in fifteen minutes." he grabs their
bags from the back seat locking the car. He leads Chance towards their ground
level room. He unlocks the door allowing Chance to enter. Dropping the bags by
the bed he closes the blinds "Do you need anything?"
Chance shakes her head removing her shoes and pants she crawls
under the covers. She watches as Angel checks the room making sure the shades
are drawn. She yawns stretching under the covers
"You OK?" Angel asks stripping down to his boxers he
sits on the edge of the bed smoothing Chance's hair out of her face
Chance nods "I'm fine" she assures with a smile
Angel kisses her forehead "Alright" he lays down
pulling Chance into his arms "get some sleep."
Feeling secure in her lover's arms Chance closes her eyes
drifting off to a peaceful sleep.
* ~ * ~ * ~
Chance blinks sleepily rubbing her cheek against Angel's chest.
She grimaces feeling her stomach roll. 'OK not now' she rolls onto her back
resting her hands over her belly 'I'm tired. I don't want to get up.' Carefully
she sits up feeling her stomach clench and bile rise she groans "Oh
god" she scrambles out of bed rushing into the bathroom
Angel opens his eyes after hearing Chance scramble out of bed.
"Chance?" he calls sitting up he hears Chance wretching. Not getting
an answer he throws off the covers going into the bathroom he finds his mate
kneeling before the toilet heaving. Kneeling beside her he rubs her back
talking to her softly.
Chance trembles as she coughs.
"Feeling better?" Angel asks handing her a cup of
water
Chance rinses out her mouth and nods "Better"
"Done?"
She shrugs "For now"
Angel kisses her forehead "Lets go back to bed." he
helps her stand
"I gotta brush my teeth" she says
"Where's your toothbrush?"
"Top of my clothes" she answers
Angel opens the bag finding her toothbrush and toothpaste.
"Here you go" he hands them to her.
"Thanks" she smiles putting paste on her brush.
Quickly she brushes her teeth rinses her mouth out she sighs happily
"Better" she tells Angel
He strokes her cheek with his thumb "Good. Now lets go back
to bed"
Chance moves closer running her nails down his neck smiling as
he growls. She tilts her head looking at him hopefully "Angel?"
"What?" he groans seeing the pout he knows he won't
be able to say no
"I wanna play" she says her voice seductive
"Oh really?" he smiles
"Please?" she pleads her eyes wide with hope she
moves closer rubbing her lower body against his "I know you want to play
too"
Angel growls picking Chance up he carries her over to the bed
* ~ * ~ * ~
"Angel" Chance nuzzles his neck
"What?" he yawns
"I'm going to go get some food."
"Don't go too far. There's some money in my wallet."
Chance kisses him "I'll be back in a few minutes. Love
you" she says going to the door
"Love you too" Angel smiles watching Chance walk out
the door
* ~ * ~ * ~
Angel opens his eyes frowning when he realizes Chance hadn't
yet returned. He looks at the clock 'Where the hell is she? She's been gone for
over an hour.' he thinks worried. After a few moments worry gives way to anger.
'If anyone touches my mate I'll kill 'em.' As he thinks that he senses Chance
nearby. He looks up to see the door open "Chance" he says relieved to
see his mate safe
Chance enters carrying some bags "Hi" she smiles
setting the bags down on the table. "How was your sleep?"
"Where the hell were you?"
Chance starts hearing the tone "I told you I was going out
for food Angelus. After I ate I got distracted when I passed a baby store. So I
went in. I bought some books to read." she goes to the refrigerator
putting her leftovers in. "I lost track of time."
Angelus goes over grabbing Chance "Don't ever do
that."
"Angelus" she protests "nothing happened."
Angelus growls his demon face flickering "And if it had?
What if someone figured out who you are? I can't protect you during the
day"
"Relax." she says rolling her eyes
Angelus growls forcing her to look at him. His eyes flash
golden "Never do that" he hisses "you and the babes could have
been hurt. What if they found you? They could have taken you away from
us." he reminds forcing her against the wall "We will not lose our
mate... or our children. We are your Master." he kisses her fiercely
"Do you understand me?" he demands
Chance glares at him "Don't ever tell me what to do"
she snaps shoving the angered vampire away. "I love you but I don't let
any one order me around" she goes to the bed sitting down. "So
don't"
Angelus stalks over to her touching her cheek tenderly
"You and the babes are our life. We don't want you to be in any
danger."
"We're fine." she assures touching his cheek
"Nothing happened."
Angelus kisses her sweetly then passionately. His hands quickly
undressing her. His eyes raking over her naked body his eyes and hands showing
his possessive nature. "Our mate."
Chance nods "Always" she smiles touching his face
with her fingertips
* ~ * ~ * ~
Chance yawns feeling the bed shift as the vampire moves
"Where are you going?" she asks still sensing Angelus's presence
"To take a shower lover. Sunset is in a few hours"
" 'kay" she mumbles rubbing her eyes sleepily. After
a few moments she groans feeling her body shiver with need. She throws off the
covers standing she rubs her stomach 'I miss your Daddy too. Even though he's
only in the next room.' she sighs going into the bathroom.
Angelus smiles feeling the familiar arms wrapping around his
waist "Wondering when you'd get here lover" he chuckles
Chance rubs her cheek against his back brushing her lips against
his tattoo. "We missed you"
Angelus turns around his arms around her waist "Mmm"
he smiles kissing her softly "How are you feeling?"
She smiles rubbing her abdomen "Good. I'm getting hungry
again"
Angelus kisses her forehead "Lets finish getting cleaned
up first"
* ~ * ~ * ~
Chance kisses the underside of the newly resurfaced Angel's
chin as she sits on his lap eating and watching TV "Are you still
upset?"
"Angelus has always been a hothead. I think its because
he's not out much. Sorry if he scared you" he rests his hand against her
belly
"Its OK I know he was just worried."
"I was too. Chance if you're going to be late you need to
let me know"
"Sorry I lost track of time."
"When we get to LA you're going to have to be even more
careful."
"I know."
"Chance not only do we have to worry about the police but
demons and other humans."
"Why?" she looks at him concerned
"Chance Los Angeles is even more dangerous than San
Diego."
"Then why are we going there?" she questions
"Its away from San Diego. Los Angeles is the closest area
around where there are people... and demons we can trust. It would take too
long to get to New York or England or even Asia."
"Why there?" she asks
"New York has a demon population similiar to Los Angeles.
London has the Council. They might be able to help, but I doubt they
would."
"So LA it is." she sighs
"LA is also dangerous because it is close to the
Hellmouth"
"Hellmouth?"
"Hellmouth is a very powerful place. Its also called
Sunnydale."
Chance looks at him seeing pain flash in his eyes "Where
you used to live when Buffy was alive?"
Angel nods "Yeah"
"Have you been back?" she questions
Angel winces shaking his head "Not since the funeral. I
get emails from Willow at Christmas. Xander hated me then and still does."
he sighs "He has good reason to"
"Why?"
"He always wanted Buffy. She never saw him as anything
more than a friend. He blamed me for everything that ever happened to them. He
blames me for Buffy and Cordelia's deaths."
"But it wasn't your fault."
Angel sighs "That's what Buffy used to say." he
chuckles drily
"Do you want to go back?" she asks
"I don't know. Someday I'd like to go back check on Willow
and visit Buffy and Cordelia's graves." he says thoughtfully
Chance squeezes his hand "When you go can I come?"
she asks
"I don't know" he shrugs "I don't think that's
wise. I don't know what the reaction the Hellmouth could have on you or the
babies."
"Why would it?"
"Its powerful. Once we know more we'll talk about this
again." he promises "Deal?"
"Deal" she agrees reluctantly
Angel kisses her cheek "Come on suns down. We should get
going. I need to stop off at the butchers before we leave town." Half an
hour later they walk out of the room. "Wait in the car. I'll be back in a
minute"
Chance shakes her head "I wanna come too" she says
Hearing the stubborn tone Angel shakes his head
"Alright." After putting their bags in the car they head to the
office to check out.
Chance stays beside Angel her hand clutching his as she notices
a news report. She frowns realizing the report is on a body of a man found in
the woods by a group of teens. 'Oh my god' she thinks startled at the picture
shown of Roger.
Angel senses her surprise he notices her attention is on the
TV. When he sees Roger's picture. 'She's not going to be too happy' he muses
"Thanks" he returns the key leading Chance out of the building
Chance remains silent until their in the car "You said you
wouldn't" she says "you lied Angel" she accuses her voice angry
"No I didn't" he argues "I didn't kill him. I
told you I wouldn't."
"So you sent Spike instead didn't you?!"
"No" he denies "Spike hasn't killed anyone in
over 20 years. Why would he now?" he asks
"You know who did don't you?"
"Not really." he admits
"I can't believe you lied to me."
Angel growls in response "I told you I wouldn't allow
anyone to hurt you. He did. I wasn't going to let him get away with hurting
you."
"What about Betty? Did they kill her too?"
"NO" he snarls "I told Spike to make sure
nothing happens to her. I know how important she is to you." he touches
her cheek "She'll be under Spike and Drusilla's protection. They'll make
sure nothing happens to her"
Chance nods " 'kay"
"It'll be OK" he promises
Chance rests her head against his shoulder "I know."
* ~ * ~ * ~
The next afternoon Angel frowns seeing Chance pale.
"Chance are you OK?" he asks setting aside his book
"Just a little dizzy" she replies laying beside him
"That all?"
"Mmm" she sighs resting her head on his shoulder
"I'm feeling better already" she assures
* ~ * ~ * ~
Angel looks at Chance concerned to see her leaning her head
against the car window "Honey you OK?" he asks
Chance nods tiredly "I'm just tired." she lays her
head on his leg
"Alright" he rests his hand on her shoulder
"just get some rest."
___________
Chapter 10
A week after leaving San Diego Angel pulls into the underground
parking lot of the apartment building. "Chance honey" he shakes her
awake "We're here."
Chance yawns sitting up " 'kay"
Angel smiles at the sleepy expression "Lets get you inside
and in bed" he helps her out of the car. He leads her into the stairwell
heading up one flight. He leads her down a dimly lit hallway. "Few
windows." he states with relief knowing that if he needs to leave the
apartment he won't burst into flames in the hallway. He unlocks the door
"You have to invite me in Chance"
"Why? I thought you said if you own the place you can
enter without being invited" she says yawning
"I haven't signed the final papers yet." he explains
"So you have to invite me in"
Chance smirks crossing her arms over her chest "Oh the fun
I can have"
At the tone Angel groans "Chance come on"
Chance laughs toeing off her shoes she slowly buttons her shirt
"Chance don't do this to me." Angel pleads watching
as his lover slowly strips "Chance I'm stuck here the doors open anyone
can walk by and see this little performance."
"Hmm" she purrs slowly sliding her jeans down her
legs "Now that would be interesting" she muses kicking off her jeans
and pulling off her socks.
Angel looks at his mate aroused by the sight of her barely
covered body "You know what would happen to any prick who sees you like
this. I don't take too well to anyone looking at what's mine." he reminds
Chance smiles her hands going to the clasp of her bra unhooking
it "You want me don't you."
Angel growls "You know I do. Now invite me in"
"You're mad aren't you?"
"Chance let me in" he orders watching as she turns
her back to him he watches her drop her bra on the floor. "Chance"
Chance grins at him over her shoulder "If I invite you to
come in can we play?"
"We can play as long as you want... just invite me
in" he says desperately
"Can Angelus come out and play?" she asks hopefully
"You know how he is. If he wants to come out he
will."
"I want to play with you both." she pouts
"OK OK" he agrees "I'll try and talk him into
it."
"Works for me. Come on in" she invites
Angel enter slamming the door shut behind him. He growls seeing
Chance standing before him wearing only her panties. "You know I hate it
when you tease me."
Chance shrugs "I couldn't resist." they meet in the
middle of the room their lips meeting forcefully.
Angel rips off her panties lowering her to the carpet he undoes
his pants freeing himself he enters her forcefully swearing at the feeling of
being inside her. "Chance" he groans
"Mmm Angel" she sighs meeting his thrusts
* ~ * ~ * ~
Midmorning Chance yawns then smiles seeing Angel asleep with
his back to her. She moves closer to him kissing his shoulder she rests her
chin on his arm her hand stroking his chest "Angel" she calls
Angel sighs needlessly opening his eyes slightly "I'm
sleeping baby"
"I know"
"What's wrong?"
"Nothing." she smiles
"Honey I need to get some sleep you wore me out."
"Yeah right." she rolls her eyes
"Why'd you wake me?" he asks
"No reason"
Angel shakes his head rolling onto his back pulling Chance
against him. He frowns seeing her pale
"Oh shit" she swears scrambling out of bed she dashes
into the bathroom reaching the toilet seconds before she throws up.
Angel follows her "You OK?" he asks kneeling beside
her
Chance nods
"We need to start finding you a doctor. Make sure
everything's OK"
"Angel I went last week" she argues
"I know. Just to be on the safe side."
" 'kay" she agrees flushing the toilet she stands
going to the sink she turns on the water she leans down rinsing her mouth out.
"Need anything?" Angel asks concerned
Chance shakes her head "Where are your car keys?"
"Why?"
"I want to go get some stuff out of the car" she says
pulling on her clothes.
"In my jacket pocket." Angel answers getting back
into bed "Don't be gone to long"
"I won't. I'm just going to grab my backpack and
dufflebag. Need anything?" she asks
"Bring in the cooler and my dufflebag if possible."
Chance nods kissing him she takes the keys out of the pocket of
his jacket "I'll be back in a few." she promises
"Make sure the car is locked."
"I will"
* ~ * ~ * ~
That afternoon Angel is looking through the papers Doctor
Roberts had given them before leaving as Chance is studying. He notices the
list of doctors before him. A name catches his eye 'Willow Osbourne' he frowns
'Not many women named Willow in the world. It can't be her.'
Chance frowns seeing the faraway look in his eyes
"Angel?" she calls
"Hmm?" he glances up
"What's wrong?"
"I was looking at the list of doctors Roberts had given
us. I thought I recognized a name." he shakes his head "It couldn't
possibly be her"
"Who?"
"Willow... Buffy's best friend."
"Oh." she replies closing the book she goes over to
Angel sitting on his lap "Why can't it be her?"
"It could be." he sighs "There aren't many
Willow Osbourne's in the world." he shakes his head "I still can't
believe she married Oz. Last time I saw her she was still with Tara."
"Oz? The werewolf?"
Angel nods "I don't know if he still is. She never
mentioned it."
"Why don't you call her" Chance suggests
Angel shakes his head "It'll be better if I go see
her."
"I thought that you said they were all in Sunnydale."
"I guess they moved. Her office isn't far from here. I'll
go see if she's there tonight."
"And if she isn't?"
"I'll see if she's in the phone book and get her
address." he shrugs
"Oh" she replies resting her head on his shoulder
"she's not going to be to happy to find out about me is she?"
"Willow always was the more accepting one. Xander was the
one who would have an issue with anything that involves me." he kisses her
forehead "If its her will you be OK with her being your doctor?"
Chance shakes her head "If you trust her I'm fine with
it"
* ~ * ~ * ~
Angel pulls on his jacket "Chance" he calls
Chance walks out of the bedroom "What?"
He smiles at the sight of his pajama clad lover "I'm going
out. I'll be back in 3 or 4 hours."
" 'kay" Chance hugs him tight "love you"
"I love you too." Angel smiles kissing her gently
"I'll be back before you know it." he promises "stay inside.
Don't let anyone in. Call if you need anything. OK?"
Chance nods "OK"
Angel kisses her again "I'll see you in a while."
Chance smiles "Alright." she releases him and as he
walks out the door she locks it. Sighing she goes over to the couch pulling a
blanket around her she lays down grabbing the remote she turns on the TV.
~ * ~ * ~ *
Angel walks into the doctor's office. He goes to the
receptionist "Hi I'm looking for Dr Osbourne"
The woman stares at the man startled by his good looks "Do
you have an appointment?"
"Uh no. Its important that I see her."
"She's with a patient right now. Why don't you give me
your name and I'll go see when she'll be done."
"Tell her Angel's here and its important."
"Alright I'll let her know. Have a seat."
Angel does leaning forward he looks at his hands. 'Willow you
have to see me' he thinks
In the back the receptionist knocks on the exam door "Dr
Osbourne?"
The door opens and a smiling redhaired woman steps out
"What is it Sara?" she asks
"There's this really gorgeous guy here to see you. He said
its important that he speak with you."
"Did you get a name?" Willow asks
"He said his name is Angel."
Willow smiles brightly at the name "Show him into my
office. I'll be there in a few minutes"
"Will do" Sara nods walking away
'Angel what is he doing here?' Willow wonders returning to the
room
Angel looks up as the receptionist returns
Sara smiles at the man "Dr Osbourne is with a patient. She
said you can wait in her office."
Angel stands "Thanks" he follows her into the back
Sara opens the door "Would you like some coffee or
tea?"
Angel shakes his head "No thank you."
"Dr Osbourne will be with you in a while." Sara says
walking away
Angel looks around the office smiling faintly 'This is
definately Willow' he notices a picture of the Scooby Gang at graduation on her
desk. He picks it up staring at the small blond smiling back. 'Buffy' he senses
Willow behind him "I remember that day" he says softly
"How can we forget" Willow remarks entering the office
she closes the door behind her "after all she blew up the school."
she shakes her head
"Yeah she did. I remember that was one of the last times
we were anywhere near each other without getting into a fight." he says
setting the picture down. He looks at Willow "You've done well" he
remarks
Willow smiles going over to him she hugs him "Its good to
see you"
"You too." Angel hugs her back he looks at her
chuckling
"What?" she demands hands on her hips
"I was just thinking about when you guys where in highschool.
I seriously thought none of you would make it." he shakes his head
"Now your grown up."
"I know. Though I kinda miss high school" she sighs
sitting down "not the getting chased part but having everyone alive"
Angel nods "How's your family?"
"Good. Our oldest is 18 her names Alex."
"After Xander of course" Angel shakes his head
"Of course. Jenny's 16. Giles is 13. Our youngest is Andy
he's 8."
"And Oz?"
"Still a werewolf. Luckily the kids only have werewolf
traits." she remarks
"How's Xander?" he asks curiously "I was always
wondering if he'd make it past 20."
"Well he did. He and Anya got married a year after Buffy
died. They have 5 kids. The oldest is Jesse he's 18, he was born six months
after they got married. He and Alex were born a month apart and they're dating.
Then there is Travis he's 16. Amanda is 13. Michael 10. The youngest is Anna
she's six and exactly like Xander was at that age."
"And Joyce?" Angel questions
"She's still in Sunnydale working at the Gallery. She's
the grandmother to all the kids. Giles is also still in Sunnydale. He still has
the magic shop."
"I'm glad everyone is doing well"
"Where have you been?" Willow asks curiously
"Around. After Buffy's funeral I returned to Ireland for a
few years. Finally got Angelus under control."
"Really? How'd you do that?"
"He didn't take too well to Buffy's death." Angel
admits "He just agreed to calm down. I'm in control he's buried only to
come out when he's needed."
"So you still have your soul" Willow remarks
Angel nods "And no clause. I guess after Angelus stopped
fighting for control the clause was nullified."
"What happened to you? You just disappeared."
"Moved around a lot. After I heard what happened to Cordy,
Wes and Gunn I didn't want to return. Over a year ago I finally stepped foot in
California for the first time in 20 years."
"Why?"
"Something told me to come back. That's why I'm here in
LA."
"Oh?"
"Willow I need your help."
"With what?" Willow questions
"Before I tell you I need you to promise you won't mention
anything about what I'm going to tell you. It'll put us in danger."
"'Us'?"
"I'll explain." he says "First promise"
"I won't." she promises
"It began in May" he begins
* ~ * ~ * ~
Willow stares at Angel stunned by his news then grins
"Congratulations" she says "Wow you a Dad" she shakes her
head
"Yeah I know" Angel smiles "I'm still a little
surprised."
"I always thought you'd make a great Dad. After all you've
always been protective of us."
"Chance is getting annoyed with me." he smiles
"I just worry"
"I'm glad you do. I've met potential fathers who don't
worry at all."
"Most people don't have to worry that their mate will be
killed or taken away because of what they are."
"Angel I'd be glad to be her doctor. Are you sure you
don't want to find a doctor who has more experience with the
supernatural?"
"Willow you're the only person I can trust with this
secret."
Willow nods "Angel I might need to get Giles help."
"That's fine. I trust you two."
Willow opens her date book "I work in LA three days a
week. Then I'm in Sunnydale the rest of the week. Why don't you bring Chance in
tomorrow night at 7." she suggests
"Thank you Willow." Angel says appreciatively
"I'll bring her in" he stands "I better get going. I need to
stop off at the butchers before heading back. I told her that I'd be back in a
few hours. I don't like leaving her alone for too long."
"Then I'll see you tomorrow night then" she stands
going over to the vampire "Its good to have you back. Now I don't have to
worry about you" she hugs him "I'm happy for you."
"Thanks. I'm happy for you too." he smiles opening
the door
Willow follows the vampire out to the waiting room
"Bye" she says as Angel walks out the door.
"So who's the hottie?" Sara asks curiously
"An old friend. Don't make any appointments for tomorrow
night at 7. I already scheduled one that's really important."
"Him?"
"His girlfriend." Willow replies
"He's got a girlfriend? Too bad."
"No its good. Angel needs someone."
* ~ * ~ * ~
At the apartment Chance sighs glancing at the clock "He
should be home soon" she muses rubbing her belly. "I know you miss
him. I do too." she turns her attention back to the TV. 'I hope he's OK'
she thinks. 'He's been gone for 3 hours.' she realizes. She looks up hearing a
key in the door she sighs in relief as Angel enters. "Hi" she greets
happily
"Hi baby how you feeling?" Angel asks closing the
door he walks over to the couch leaning down he kisses her head
"Fine" she looks up at him with a smile "How'd
it go?"
Angel moves around sitting beside Chance "Good. Made an
appointment for tomorrow night at 7."
" 'kay" she leans against him
"Are you OK? You feel a little off." he states
"Is something bothering you?" he questions concerned
Chance sighs resting her hands against her belly. "I don't
know"
Angel hugs her "Are you sure?"
"I'm hungry again" she says starting to get up
"What do you want?" Angel asks stopping her he stands
"I'll get it for you." he offers
"What is there?"
"Not much." he admits "I'll go to the grocery
store after you go to sleep." he walks into the kitchen he opens the
refrigerator "we have milk, applesauce" he closes the refrigerator
"bread and peanut butter."
"That all?"
"There's blood but I don't think you want that." he
teases
Chance rolls her eyes "I don't. I'll have milk and a
sandwich." she requests leaning back she watches from the couch as Angel
moves around in the kitchen.
Angel pours a glass of milk for Chance and picks up the plate
he carries it into the livingroom "Here you go" he hands her the
plate setting the glass on the coffee table.
"Thank you" she grins taking a bite out of the
sandwich
Angel sits watching Chance as she eats. "So how're the
babies doing?" he asks slipping his hand under her top
Chance sighs in contentment at the feeling of his large hand
resting on her skin. "Good." she smiles taking another bite out of
her sandwich "I think the babies are in a good mood"
"Why do you say that?" Angel asks curiously
Chance shrugs "Haven't made very many runs to the toilet
tonight"
"Good. I know how you hate throwing up."
"I especially hate it when you aren't with me." she
finishes off the sandwich and milk. "Thank you" she smiles
"Your welcome" Angel replies leaning down he kisses
her lips
Chance tangles her fingers in his hair holding his head in
place as they kiss. Chance laughs breaking the kiss "I love you"
"I love you too" Angel grins
* ~ * ~ * ~
"Chance baby" Angel says softly stroking her hair
"Mmm" she sighs sleepily
"Baby I'm going to the grocery store. I'll be back in a
while."
" 'kay" she mumbles "don't be gone too
long"
"I won't" he chuckles kissing her cheek "I'll be
back before you know it." he promises
"You better" she mumbles
Angel chuckles walking out of the bedroom he grabs his duster
pulling it on he walks out of the apartment. Going to the parking garage he
gets into the car.
* ~ * ~ * ~
An hour in a half later Angel enters the apartment. He takes
the grocery bags into the kitchen setting them on the counter. As he's putting
away food he becomes concerned hearing Chance's heart rate accelerate. He takes
off his jacket he tosses it on the table. He enters the bedroom going over to
the bed "Chance" he calls softly "Honey wake up."
Chance starts awake "No" she cries out her body
shaking
"Chance its OK. You were dreaming." Angel soothes
pulling her into his arms "You're awake." he kisses her temple
Chance clings to Angel her body shaking as tears fall
"Angel"
"Shh I'm here" he rubs her back "what were you
dreaming?"
"Pain." she cries
"Whose? Were you dreaming of Buffy's feelings? Or your
own?"
Chance shrugs "I don't know. It just hurt so bad."
she whispers clinging to him "I'm scared" she sobs
"Why?" Angel asks softly
"I don't know whose pain it was I was feeling. What if it
was yours?" she lifts her head staring at Angel fearfully her hands going
to her belly "Or the babies?" she says worried
"Shh it was a dream. Your fine. I'm fine. The babies are
fine. Nothing bad will happen. Just go back to sleep." he kisses her
forehead
Chance grasps his hand tightly in her own "Will you hold
me 'til I fall asleep?" she asks
"Sure" Angel nods "I need to get my shoes
off." After removing his shoes he sits against the headboard with Chance
resting her head on his chest. "Just get some sleep baby" he whispers
his arms holding her tight
_________
Chapter 11
The next night Angel and Chance are sitting in the exam room
waiting on Willow. "Chance are you feeling better?" Angel asks
concerned about earlier in the day when she almost fainted.
"I'm fine" she answers "just a little
tired" she looks towards the door as it opens and a redhaired woman
enters.
"Hi Angel." she smiles brightly at them "Hi
Chance I'm Willow."
"Hi" Chance nods
Willow sits down "How are you feeling?"
Chance shrugs "Fine I guess"
Willow looks at Angel "Do you agree?"
Angel shakes his head "No. Chance seems a little
off."
"How so?" Willow asks
"She sleeps 16 hours a day. She's pale and I can tell her
heart isn't beating the same, its slower than normal"
Willow nods writing some notes "Chance how's your
nausea?"
"On a good day I only make five or six trips. Bad day ten
or eleven."
"Alright. How about pain? Do you have any?"
Chance shakes her head "Nope."
"Are you taking your prenatal vitamins?"
Chance nods "Yes."
"I'll run some blood tests. Its possible your
anemic." she informs Chance "That's usually the case with those
symptoms. If you are it just means that you'll need to take some iron supplements."
"OK" Chance nods
"I'd also like to do a sonogram."
"Again" Chance sighs
Willow and Angel chuckle "Yes."
"OK" Chance agrees. She pulls herself up on the exam
table watching as Willow prepares the sonogram equipment. She smiles at Angel
slipping her hand into his.
"When we're done here how about going for ice cream?"
he asks
"Works for me" she grins
Willow smiles at the look of love in Angel's eyes. 'I haven't
seen that since he and Buffy were together.' "Lets see how everything
is."
Chance and Angel turn their attention to the monitor waiting to
see their babies. Chance smiles when she sees the small figures on the screen
Willow moves the wand across Chance's belly her eyes on the
monitor. "Hmm" she says thoughtfully her attention drawn to something
suspicious. Suddenly it dawns on her what she's looking at "Oh my."
she says worried
"What?" Angel asks
"Is something wrong?" Chance asks worried about her
babies health
"Angel you said something about Chance's heart not beating
as fast"
Angel nods "I thought it might be because she's
calm."
Willow hands Chance a paper towel "Here you go. Can you
excuse me for a moment" she says walking out of the room
Angel watches concerned as his old friend walks out of the room
"Chance I'll be back in a minute" he kisses her forehead.
Chance nods " 'kay" she says softly her eyes showing
her worry
Angel smiles "I'll be right outside if you need me."
Chance nods watching as her lover walks out of the room 'Hurry
back'
Angel finds Willow looking at her notes "What's wrong
Willow?"
"Angel" Willow looks at the vampire her eyes showing
her worry "it seems that there's a problem"
"What is it?" Angel asks
Willow takes a deep breath then answers "I'll need to
check with some collegues but it seems that Chance's body is barely producing
enough blood for both her and the twins. I might be wrong."
Angel runs his fingers through his hair "And if you
aren't? What will happen?" he asks concerned
"Angel lets just see if its true before we get into this
discussion"
"I've known you since you were 16 Willow. I know you
wouldn't say anything without being sure."
Willow nods "Do you want Chance to hear this also?"
Angel shakes his head "I'll tell her. Willow I need to
know"
Seeing the need in his eyes "Alright. Angel since her body
isn't producing enough blood it puts the twins and Chance in danger."
"Is there anyway to avoid putting them in danger?"
"Angel there are few options for this type of situation.
Since she isn't producing enough blood there is a high possibility that she'll
have a miscarriage." she pauses allowing the vampire time before she
continues "If she manages to carry them to term they might not make it
through the birth. It also means that there is a possibility that Chance won't
survive."
Angel looks at her his eyes pained "I can't lose her
Willow."
"In most situations when a mother's life is in danger like
this the only option is to end the pregnancy. In Chance's case she would only
need to have one aborted."
"If she does abort one would she still be in danger?"
"No she'd have a normal pregnancy."
"And the other baby?"
"Would be fine." she assures
"Is there any way to avoid that? Like blood
transfusion?"
Willow shakes her head "I don't think so. I can make some
calls though." she offers
Angel nods
"Angel the best idea is for you to get second
opinions."
"Willow I can't trust many people with this."
"I have some friends who owe me some favors. I'll see if
one can exam Chance and see if my findings are correct."
"Willow just make sure who you get can keep quiet."
Willow nods "I know. I'll make some calls and when I know
something I'll let you know."
"Thank you Willow"
"I still need to draw some blood from Chance, then we're
done"
Angel nods "Alright." the two enter the exam room to
find Chance quietly reading a magazine
Chance looks at Angel curiously "What's going on?"
"Uh we'll talk about it later." Angel replies "Willow
needs to draw some blood."
Chance nods holding out her arm "Go ahead"
Angel looks at Chance his mind running over what Willow had
told him. 'I can't lose her.'
"All done." Willow announces removing her gloves
"I'll call you when the test results come in." she promises
Chance nods "Angel can we go?" she asks
The vampire snaps out of his thoughts at his love's voice
"Sure." he stands helping Chance into her jacket. "Thank you
Willow" he nods
Chance frowns looking at Angel as they walk out of the office
"Angel?"
Angel looks at Chance and smiles slightly "Lets get
home."
* ~ * ~ * ~
Chance enters the apartment still confused and worried about
Angel's silence. She turns around watching the obviously brooding vampire then
finally she speaks "Angel is something wrong with the babies?"
Angel looks at Chance "Come on lets sit down." he
leads her over to the couch "Do you want something to eat?"
Chance shakes her head "Angel what's going on?"
Angel sits on the edge of the coffee table looking at Chance he
sighs "Chance there is something wrong with the babies"
Chance wraps her arms around herself "Angel?"
"Willow wants to do some more checking. She's going to see
if a doctor friend can give us a second opinion."
"What's wrong with them?"
"Chance" he begins "it seems that the twins
aren't receiving enough blood. I think its possible that the babies have some
vampire traits. If they were normal babies I'm sure your body would have enough
blood."
"What'll happen to them? Are they in danger?" she
demands
"Willow said that there is a possibility that you'll
miscarry."
Chance stares at him scared she shakes her head tears forming
"I don't want to lose the babies."
Angel wipes away her tears with his thumbs "Shh. Willow
said that there is a possibility that you could carry them to term... but when
you go into labor they could die... as could you."
"That's a could not a would" she challenges
"I don't want to lose you Chance" he whispers
"Angel" she cries "I don't want to lose our
babies."
"I know. I don't either." he moves over to the couch
pulling the crying teen into his arms. He holds her as she cries
Chance calms down looking at Angel "Maybe she's wrong.
Maybe I won't lose them." she says hopefully
Angel nods "Maybe. I just want you to be prepared for the
possibility"
Chance hugs him tight
Angel sits there holding Chance tight as she drifts off to
sleep. "I don't want to lose them either. I can't lose you."
* ~ * ~ * ~
"Angel" Chance says softly the next afternoon as she
walks out of the bedroom to find Angel sitting in the livingroom with a book
Angel looks up from his reading "You OK?" he asks
worried
"Yes I'm fine" she sits on the couch
"You sure?"
Chance nods
"Willow called wants to see us at 7."
Chance closes her eyes hugging herself. 'God please let me keep
my babies.' she prays. She opens her eyes as she feels Angel sit beside her on
the couch "Angel" she whispers tears falling
"Shh" he soothes pulling her close "I know."
he presses his lips to her hair "Its going to be OK"
* ~ * ~ * ~
Chance clings to Angel's hand as she finds herself back in the
doctor's office laying on the exam table. She barely hears Willow speaking with
the other doctor as her eyes are on the monitor looking at her children 'Hi my
babies' she thinks 'Daddy and I love you so much.'
Angel listens as Willow and the other doctor talk. His eyes on
Chance's face. 'God don't take her from me.'
"Alright we're done Chance" Willow tells the teen
"Well?" Angel demands
Chance sits up waiting for the news she clings to Angel's hand
sensing the approaching bad news.
"Dr Osbourne was correct." the doctor informs them.
He looks at the sad teen clinging to the older man's hand "Miss Greyson
there are a few options here. Since your body isn't producing enough blood your
children won't survive, its possible you won't either. If you want to try to
carry them to term you might be able to but I would give them a 60 to 70
percent chance that they won't survive the birth. You have yourself have about
a 30 percent of dying in labor. There is one option for you and at least one of
your children to survive"
"That one is off the table" Angel snaps
The doctor looks at the man "I think its her choice."
he looks at Chance "Miss Greyson in this type of situation there is only
one thing that can be done" he pauses "the best option is to abort
one of the fetuses."
Chance blinks back tears moving closer to Angel seeking
comfort.
"This is your best chance for you and one of your children
to survive"
Angel glares at the man allowing Angelus to surface
"Leave"
Willow starts hearing that tone she instinctively knows its
Angelus speaking "Uh Brad lets let them have a moment alone" she
suggests meeting Angelus's gaze she sees the look of thanks. She nods leading
her friend out of the room allowing Chance sometime with Angel/Angelus.
Angel resurfaces as the man leaves "Chance?" he says
softly
Chance looks at him her eyes wide with conflict
"Angel" she says
"Come on" he helps her off the table leading her over
to the couch. "Sit" he says
Chance does looking at him tears clouding her vision her arms
wrapped around her waist in comfort. "What are we going to do?"
Angel crouches before her "I'll go along with whatever you
decide"
Chance looks at him "I can't make a decision without
you"
"I want you to be happy Chance. I don't want to lose
you."
"Do you want me to abort one of the babies?"
Angel shakes his head "No. I've seen too many innocent
lives die. I was the cause a lot of the time. I maybe a vampire but part of me
still holds onto my Catholic upbringing. But if you want to I'll support
you."
Chance shakes her head "I want the babies Angel." she
says firmly putting her arms around his neck as she cries. "I want our
babies"
"I know. I do too." he holds her
"Can we go home now" she asks softly
Angel kisses her forehead "Sure baby. Why don't you put on
your shoes and jacket. I'll be out in the hall with Willow."
Chance nods watching as Angel walks out of the room. 'Daddy and
I will try to make sure nothing happens to you.' she thinks pulling on her
shoes
Angel finds Willow and the other doctor talking
"Angel how is she?" Willow asks concerned
"She wants to head home. I think she's getting
tired."
"Have you made a decision?" the other doctor asks
Angel looks at the man "She's not going to get the
abortion." he turns his attention to Willow "Why don't you check with
Giles." he suggests "There is a possibility he might have some
ideas."
Willow nods "I'll check with him. I want to see Chance in
a few weeks"
"I'll make the appointment tomorrow." Angel says as
the door opens and out walks Chance "You ready?" he asks
Chance slips her hand into his "Yes" she answers
softly
Angel smiles "Then lets go"
"Bye" Chance says to the two doctors the walks away
with Angel
