Title: The Guardian

Author: AngelicBrat

E-mail: ddauntb@hotmail.com

Summary: Alternate Universe. Eight years ago Buffy and Angel were the typical married couple. While Angel worked with the police, he got injured and was told that he would never walk again. Angel in turn asks Buffy for a divorce not wanting to burden her. Buffy leaving LA with a broken heart and a little surprise.

Part I

January 19, 2003

“Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Buffy. Happy birthday to you!” Everyone sang to Buffy on her 20th birthday. “Thanks guys you’re the greatest!” Buffy replied hugging everyone including her husband of one year.

“We were happy to do it. Besides it’s been a little over a year since we got married.” Angel said lovingly. “Your so sweet.” Buffy said kissing Angel letting it become passionate.

“Get a room!” Xander teased. “Why so you and Anya can do the same thing?” Angel asked. “He’s got a point, Xander.” Willow said. “Xander, I don’t feel so good. I think I caught that virus that’s going around.” Anya said. “I think you did to, you’ve got a fever. Okay. Let’s go. Bye guys, I’ll talk to you later.” Xander said helping Anya up.

A Few Hours Later

“Thanks guys. I’ve never had a birthday this much fun.” Buffy said. “We enjoyed it. Congratulations on your Harvard acceptance by the way.” Willow said smiling. “Thanks. I can’t believe I actually got in with my grades.” Buffy said. “You must have written a heck of an essay.” Willow reminded. “Guess so.” Buffy replied, “Thanks again for the party. I’ll talk to you guys later.”

As soon as everyone left Angel and Buffy were alone in their apartment together where Buffy lounged on the couch. “There’s one more present for the birthday girl.” Angel said smiling.

“Really? Where is it?” Buffy asked grinning like a child on Christmas morning. “In the bedroom.” Angel said. “I know what you’re up to Mr. McKellan.” Buffy said suspiciously. “Whatever do you mean Mrs. McKellan?” Angel teased.

As Buffy walked into their bedroom and gasped at the sight of the candles lit all around the room, “Oh Angel, it’s so beautiful. I love it.” Angel grinned, “I’m glad,” leaning down and kissing letting it become passionate in a matter of seconds.

“I love you, Angel.” Buffy said with lust filled eyes. “I love you too, beloved.” Angel replied kissing her again and no more words were spoken all night except the occasional moaning.

Part 2

One Month Later

Buffy raced to the bathroom praying she’d make it and lost her lunch. “Buffy are you ok?” Angel asked worriedly. “Yeah. I think so. I must have caught that stomach virus that’s going around.” Buffy said. “Are you sure? Maybe you should see a doctor.” Angel suggested.

“I’ve got an appointment today for a check-up.” Buffy said. “Do you promise you’ll go?” Angel asked. “I promise. Let’s meet for lunch at the Espresso Pump.” Buffy said. “Deal.” Angel promised kissing Buffy bye.

10:15

“Well Buffy, I’ve got some good news and more good news.” Dr. Anderson said walking in the door and smiling. “Well? What is it?” Buffy asked. “You don’t have the stomach virus, you’re healthy as a horse.” He said.

“Why have I been throwing up every morning and almost every afternoon?” Buffy asked. “Your pregnant.” He replied grinning. “What? I’m what?” Buffy asked. “Pregnant. Congratulations! Here’s the number of a good OB-GYN.” Dr. Anderson said. “Thanks.” Buffy replied taking the card and promising to make an appointment soon.

12:30

Buffy sat at their table waiting for Angel to arrive, wondering what was keeping him. As Buffy started reaching for her glass of water, her cell phone rang, “Hello? What? Is…is he okay? Please tell me he’s ok. LA Memorial? I’ll be there in 10 minutes.” Buffy hurriedly paid the bill and ran out the restaurant.

LA Memorial

As soon as Buffy entered the hospital she saw Doyle and ran to him, “What happened? Is he okay?” Doyle turned to her grim-faced, “We got a call about a domestic disturbance, but it was a setup. As soon as we pulled up they opened fire. Angel tried to draw the fire, but caught a bullet in the back. I don’t know if he’s ok. They haven’t told me anything.”

30 Minutes Later

As soon as Buffy had finished getting the details she had called everyone and they had made it to the hospital in 15 minutes. “Don’t worry, Buffy. I’m sure Angel’s going to be ok.” Cordy assured with everyone agreeing.

“Is there a Mrs. McKellan here?” The ER doctor asked. “That’s me. Is my husband ok?” Buffy asked. “He came through the surgery perfectly, but there’s very little chance that he’s ever gonna walk again. I’m very sorry.” He said. “Where is he?” Buffy asked. “Room 234.” He told her.

Buffy practically ran to his room and stayed by his bedside until he woke up, “Hey beloved.”

“Oh, Angel. I didn’t think you were gonna make it. I don’t’ know what I’d if anything ever happened to you.” Buffy sobbed. “Don’t worry you’re never gonna have to find out.” Angel promised pulling Buffy down and kissing her passionately.

“I’m glad to see you’re awake Mr. McKellan.” The ER doctor said. “I’m glad to be awake.” Angel replied. “Well since I already told your wife what’s going on with you, I guess I’ll tell it again.” He said.

After the doctor finished explaining Angel’s condition he left leaving Buffy and Angel alone. “Don’t worry. Your young and strong you’ll beat this thing I know it.” Buffy promised. “I think you need to get something to eat.” Angel said.

“Are you sure you don’t want me to stay with you?” Buffy asked. “I need some time to think about what I’m going to do.” Angel said. “Okay, but I’ll be back.” Buffy promised.

“I am so relieved that’s over. I don’t have to worry about that. All we have to focus on is Angel getting better.” Buffy insisted. “That’s great. What’d your doctor say?” Willow asked. “Oh man. I forgot to tell Angel.” Buffy groaned.

“Is something wrong? Are you ok?” Cordy asked. “I’m fine. I don’t have the stomach virus.” Buffy said. “Then what’s the problem?” Anya asked. “You have to promise not to tell anyone until I tell Angel.” Buffy said.

“Promise.” All three agreed. “I’m pregnant.” Buffy said. “Congratulations! That’s so great. When are you gonna tell Angel?” Willow asked. “Tomorrow. When I visit him at the hospital.” Buffy said.

Part 3

The Next Morning

Buffy walked into Angel’s room while he was sleeping and just stood there. Angel slowly woke up and saw Buffy watching him, “Hey. When did you get here?”

“A few minutes ago. I have something to tell you.” Buffy said. “Can I talk to you first?” Angel asked. “Sure.” Buffy agreed. “Well I was thinking that maybe we should get a divorce.” Angel replied hesitantly.

“What? Please tell me you’re joking.” Buffy begged. “I’m serious. You don’t need this in your life. You deserve to be with someone who can take you out into the sunlight and make love to you without him being paralyzed.” Angel said.

“Angel, I love you. I don’t want to be with anyone else. You’re the only one I’ll ever love. I don’t understand why you’re saying this. I don’t care if you’re paralyzed or sick or whatever. I’ll always stand by you no matter what. I love you.” Buffy said.

“I don’t.” Angel said hating the look of betrayal in Buffy’s eyes and hating himself for breaking her heart. This is for the best. When I’m out of her life, she’ll be able to find someone else who can give her children and a long beautiful life.

“You don’t love me? I can’t believe your doing this. You promised that you’d always love me.” Buffy said getting up in tears and running out the room into the elevator not noticing Doyle stare at Buffy confused.

Angel felt his heart break into a million pieces knowing how much he had hurt Buffy and wanting to die. “Hey Angel man. What’s wrong with Buffy?” Doyle asked. “I told her I want a divorce.” Angel said. “What!?! Are you out your mind?!? I thought you loved her.” Doyle shouted in shock.

“I do.” Angel said. “Then why did you do that?” Doyle asked. “She deserves someone who can walk. Not watch life pass by while she sits next to me.” Angel said. “Is that what this is about? You being in a wheelchair? Angel I have never Buffy as happy as she has been since she met you. I’ve known her for years and she’s the happiest when she’s with you.” Doyle protested. “I don’t care what you say. I’m sticking by my decision and that’s final.” Angel said.

“Fine. Don’t came crying to me when you realize what you’ve lost. If you do I’ll make you suffer worse than you can possible imagine.” Doyle warned.

Two Days Later

Buffy sat in the apartment that she and Angel lived in and where they had made their baby. Buffy couldn’t believe that Angel had treated her like she was nothing. Just tossed her away like yesterdays garbage. She had refused to answer the calls everyone made including from Doyle one of her long time best friends.

“Buffy, open up! I know you’re in there! Open up or I’ll break the door down!” Xander warned. “Fine. I’m coming.” Buffy got up and walked to answer the door knowing that if Xander was there so was everyone else, except Angel.

“What do you guys want?” Buffy asked snippily. “Whoa Buffy, what’s with the tude?” Cordy asked. “Like you don’t know.” Buffy said sarcastically. “Know what?” Willow asked.

Buffy realized that they had no idea what she was talking about and said, “Angel dumped me.” Well, that certainly shocked everyone for about two seconds, “What? Is it because of the baby?”

“What baby?” Xander asked confused. “No. He doesn’t even know about that. I never got a chance to tell him.” Buffy said. “What baby?” Xander repeated. “Buffy’s pregnant.” Anya said. “Wow. I don’t know what to say except ‘Congratulations.’” Xander said.

“What did he say exactly?” Cordy asked. “He said that he thought we should get a divorce, because he’s gonna be in a wheelchair. He thinks I deserve more.” Buffy said. “That’s why he’s dumping you?!? Because of his male pride!” Cordy shouted, “Well he’s not getting away with it. I’m gonna march down there and give him a piece of my mind.”

“No Cordy. Don’t do anything. Please. I don’t know what to do, except give him what he wants. I can’t fight.” Buffy said in defeat. “Buffy what about the baby? Aren’t you gonna tell Angel?” Xander asked. “No. And neither are any of you. Do you understand me?!? I don’t care what you think, but he has no right to this baby anymore. Got it?” Buffy warned.

“Agreed.” Everyone said.

A Few Months Later

Buffy had finally gotten the final divorce papers and signed them as quick as possible. She had to be at the airport in two hours to catch her flight to get to study Harvard Law. As Buffy signed the papers she thought back to their first meeting when her car had been stolen.

Two Years Earlier

“Look miss I’m sorry, but there’s nothing we can do about your car at the moment.” The cop apologized. “I don’t care what you say. I need that car. I have to be at school in 15 minutes. If you don’t find my car then I’ll talk to someone who will.” Buffy stood up to leave until she felt a hand on her shoulder. “Miss. I’m Det. McKellan maybe I can help you.”

“Can you find my car and give me a lift to the college?” Buffy asked. “I’ll try and yes I can. Follow me.” Angel said. “So I guess you already filed a report on your car, right?”

“Yeah a lot of good it’ll do me.” Buffy said sarcastically. “Well we’re short-handed at the moment and don’t have enough manpower to go after car thefts right now.” Angel said sadly. “So even though that is the only way I can around this town you don’t have the manpower to track it down!” Buffy shouted. “Miss please calm down.” Angel begged. “Don’t tell me to calm down. Stop here, I can walk the rest of the way.” Buffy said opening the door and walking toward the campus.

After Buffy came out the doors to go home she found Angel standing in front of the driveway waiting. They went out to dinner that night and nothing was ever the same again.

“I can’t believe this is happening. I’m getting a divorce from the only man I’ll ever love. Well, little one looks like it’s just you and me.” Buffy replied putting her hand on her stomach before picking up her bags and leaving for the cab waiting downstairs.

Angel sat in a car across the street watching Buffy get in the cab and just wanted to go over there and beg her to forgive him. But, he knew that if he did she’d forgive him, but would always regret not going to Harvard. As the cab drove away he could tell she was trying not to cry.

Part 4

Five Years Later

“Riley Hannah McKellan! Get down here right now!” Buffy shouted upstairs to her 4-½ year old daughter. “What is it momma?” Riley asked poking her head out pf her bedroom. “You know what this is about. Now come here now.” Buffy ordered watching her daughter noticing the resemblance between Riley and her father. She had her father’s chocolate brown hair and her mother’s bright green eyes.

“What’d I do?” Riley asked innocently. “Where’s Michelle’s puppy?” Buffy asked. “I don’t know.” Riley said. “Don’t play games with me. If you don’t tell where the dog is right now I am going to punish you and I will find that dog one way or the other.” Buffy threatened.

“Fine. He’s upstairs in my room.” Riley said. “Thank you. Honey, I told you we can’t have a dog right. We’ll never have the time to give it the attention that it needs.” Buffy said. “I know, but I want a dog momma. And I want to know about my dad.” Riley said.

“Honey we’ll get you a dog someday and as for your dad I’ll tell you about him when you’re old enough to understand.” Buffy promised. Although, Buffy wondered if she would ever think her daughter was old enough to hear the truth about her father.

LA

“Hey Angel man. How’s it going?” Doyle asked. “Great. Darla and Drusilla are finally out of my life. I’ve already got a date lined up for this children’s charity tonight.” Angel replied. “The on at City Hall?” Doyle asked fear in his voice. “Yeah. How’d you know?” Angel asked.

“Do you know who the guest of honor is tonight?” Doyle asked. “No. Should I?” Angel asked curious. “Buffy.” Doyle replied. “Buffy. My Buffy?” Angel asked shocked.

“One and the same.” Doyle confirmed. “I thought she was the ADA.” Angel said. “She is, but she’s done quite a lot of charity work for that particular charity.” Doyle explained.

“Do you still talk to her?” Angel asked. “Yeah. She acts happy, but her face doesn’t light up anymore.” Doyle said. “She’s not married is she?” Angel asked. “No. If you’re going you’d better get going. I’ll meet you there.” Doyle said.

Part 5

“You look pretty momma.” Riley said. “Thanks, baby.” Buffy replied. “Can I call you before I go to bed?” Riley asked hopefully. “You better. Be good for Michelle.” Buffy warned. “Okay.” Riley agreed waving bye.

That Night

City Hall

As Buffy entered the room she spotted Doyle and Cordy immediately, walking towards both of them, “Hey guys. This is a great surprise.” Cordy smiled tightly, “It’s great seeing you too, but…” Cordy never got to finish because a man came up behind Buffy, “Hey Buffy.”

Buffy knew immediately who it was and fought the urge to turn around and pound the living daylights out of him, “Hello Angel.”

“How’ve you been?” Angel asked giving his trademark smile making Buffy’s knees weak at the knees, “Good. Its nice to see you walking around. Did they ever catch the guys that injured you?”

“Yeah about two years ago. I was thin…” Buffy interrupted, “You can cut the chitchat Angel. We’re not friends and we’ll never be friends. Not after what you’ve put me through.” Angel’s grin was wiped off his face and he walked off sadly.

“Buffy your cells ringing.” Doyle said. “Hello. Hi baby. Riley, don’t start the puppy thing again. Did Michelle actually offer that or did you ask her to? We’ll definitely talk about it then. Sleep tight. Love you too.”

“How’s Riley doing?” Cordy asked. “Great. She looks more like her father everyday.” Buffy said a little sadly looking towards Angel. “He still doesn’t know?” Doyle asked. “No. I told all of you that he doesn’t have any right to my baby and he still doesn’t.” Buffy insisted bitterly.

“You’re still in love with him aren’t you?” Cordy asked. “What? Where did that come from?” Buffy asked taken aback. “I take that as a yes.” Cordy replied. “No! Of course not! How could anyone love someone after what he did?” Buffy asked. “You’re still in love with him.” Cordy said.

“I guess so. He is never gonna know about Riley.” Buffy insisted.

As Angel looked over at Buffy he could tell she was talking about something that was clearly upsetting her to the point of tears. Angel slowly made his way over to apologize for upsetting her, but stopped when he heard Doyle and Cordy talking. “I know Buffy thinks she’s doing the right thing, but Riley deserves to know her father.” Cordy said.

“I know she does, I just wish that she’d tell him already. I hate having to keep this bottled up inside.” Doyle said. “Buffy has a daughter? Since when?” Angel asked jumping into the conversation. “Angel, I didn’t know you were there.” Cordy said.

“Obviously. Where is Riley’s father?” Angel asked. “I think you need to talk to Buffy about this. This really isn’t any of our business.” Cordy said. “Where is she?” Angel asked taking the piece of paper with Buffy’s address on it.

256 Rhonda Dr.

10:30pm

Angel stared at Buffy’s house shocked that she had bought the house they had talked about buying for themselves and the family the planned to have together. Angel slowly walked to the door and when he was about to knock the door opened unexpectedly. “Thanks again Michelle. I’ll call you…” Buffy trailed off seeing Angel. “Well I better be going. I’ll call you when I get home.” Michelle said leaving.

“Ok. Angel what are you doing here?” Buffy asked icily. “I know about Riley. And I…” Angel trailed off at the look of terror on Buffy’s face. “How’d you find out?”

“Find out what?” Angel asked. “About Riley.” Buffy said. “I heard Cordy and Doyle talking about Riley. Where’s her father?” Angel asked. “He’s been gone for a long time now.” Buffy admitted. “How could he abandon you and Riley? He left you when you needed him the most.” Angel said.

“Actually her father doesn’t know about her. I never got a chance to tell him. He left me before I could tell him.” Buffy said sadly. “I’m sorry he did that to you. You don’t deserve to be treated that way?” Angel said.

“Really? Then why did you treat me like that?” Buffy asked fighting the tears gathering in her eyes. “What are you talking about?” Angel asked.

Before Buffy could speak a little brunette poked her head in the room, “Momma? Aren’t you gonna come tuck me in? Who are you?” Buffy looked from Riley to Angel then back to Riley and said, “I’m coming honey.”

Buffy and Riley walked upstairs with Angel trailing behind them watching their bedtime ritual. “Give me a kiss.” Buffy said. “Come get it.” Riley said giggling. “Fine.” Buffy replied attacking Riley with kisses all over her face and finally tickling Riley to land a quick kiss on the lips. “I love you, honey.” Buffy said laughing. “I love you too momma.” Riley replied smiling.

Buffy stood up turning out the bedroom light and joining Angel in the hallway. “She’s beautiful. You’ve done a great job raising her by yourself.” Angel commented. “Thanks. I only wish things had turned out differently between her father and me.” Buffy said.

“That’s why I did what I did.” Angel reminded. “Don’t. Please don’t bring that up.” Buffy begged. “I told you that you needed to meet someone else who could give you children and you met someone who did.” Angel said.

“No I didn’t.” Buffy said. “Huh? What do you mean you didn’t?” Angel asked. “I mean that I never found anyone else. There was only you. Always and forever.” Buffy replied quoting the last line from the poem he had written for her. “I don’t understand. If you never met anyone how could you have Riley? Unless…” Angel trailed off as realization hit him.

“Yeah. You idiot. How could you not tell? She looks like you.” Buffy said tears falling. “She’s mine? I have a daughter? How?” Angel asked. “Didn’t your mother ever talk to you about the birds and the bees?” Buffy asked smiling. “Very funny. You know what I mean.” Angel said. “She was conceived January 19, 2003.” Buffy said. “Your twentieth birthday.” Angel said.

“Yeah. I always told her she was my favorite birthday gift from you. She loves hearing that before she does anything new.” Buffy said. “That’s why you were sick that morning. And that’s what you wanted to tell me before I broke your heart.” Angel said.

“I’m glad you finally understand.” Buffy said hoping he would tell her they had to get back together. “I am so sorry that I left you all alone.” Angel said. “You’re here now that’s what counts.” Buffy reminded. “I want you to know to something up front…” Angel started to say before Buffy attacked his lips.

Angel was stunned until Buffy pulled away staring at him. Angel pulled Buffy back to his lips and dragged her towards her bedroom pushing her gently on the bed. “Are you sure about this?” Angel asked. “More than anything. I love you Angel.” Buffy agreed.

That was all Angel needed to hear before he attacked her lips sucking her tongue into his mouth while, they made love all night.

Part 6

Summers’ House

Buffy slowly woke up feeling Angel staring at her. “Hey,” he greeted. “Hey. What time is it?” Buffy asked. “Its after 7. I think we need to talk about what happened last night.” Angel said. “I agree. I wanna start first, but don’t interrupt.” Buffy said. “Ok.” Angel said.

“I love you. I never stopped, not even when you asked me for a divorce, or even when you were stupid enough to let me walk out. I know that you want to be involved in Riley’s life, but I want you to be in my life too.” Buffy said. “You’re right. I do want to be involved in Riley’s life, but I don’t think that it’s a good idea for us to be together.” Angel said.

Buffy stood up and walked to her window overlooking the street fighting the urge to scream and shout, but couldn’t keep quiet, “I see. So that’s the only thing you wanted from me, isn’t it? All you wanted from me is a quick lay.”

“What are you talking about? Is that what you think? How can you think that?” Angel asked shocked. “How can I not think that after you just told me? We just slept together you want to be in Riley’s life, but you don’t want to be in my life.” Buffy said fighting back the tears.

“You have to understand that I’m doing this for you. I don’t want to ruin your life.” Angel said. “I think you should leave. Get out. I don’t want you in my house. I said get out!” Buffy shouted.

Angel started gathering his clothes and left. As soon as the downstairs door closed Buffy broke down in sobs crying out, “What’s wrong with me? Is it so hard to love me? Why can’t I have the only man I’ll ever love?”

“Momma. Momma what’s wrong?” Riley asked poking her head in the door. “Nothing baby. Why don’t’ you go watch some cartoons while I make you breakfast?” Buffy suggested. “Okay.” Riley said going to the downstairs phone and calling Aunt Cordy and Aunt Willow.

Later That Morning

“Riley your breakfast is ready.” Buffy said. “Okay. Aunt Cordy and Aunt Willow are here.” Riley replied. “What are they doing here?” Buffy asked confused. “I called them. You were sad and I called them.” Riley said.

Before Buffy could reply the doorbell rang, “Hey guys. Come on in,” Buffy said opening the door. “Hey Buffy. Are you okay? I mean Riley called us and she said you were sad.” Willow said. “I’m fine. It was just so stupid.” Buffy assured them.

“Was it because of Angel?” Cordy asked. “N-n-n-no. Why would it be about him?” Buffy asked stuttering. “Spill. You never stutter and I know something happened.” Cordy said. “Fine. Let’s go upstairs. Riley stay downstairs.” Buffy called. “Okay, momma.” Riley replied.

As soon as Buffy closed the door behind them Cordy asked, “Well? Are you gonna spill or what?” Buffy turned around with tears gathering in her eyes for the millionth time in one day.

“Oh, Buffy. What happened?” Willow asked soothingly. “When Michelle left last night Angel was on the porch, so I invited him in and we talked a little. Angel watched me tuck Riley in and I told him the truth.” Buffy replied taking a deep breath.

“He doesn’t want anything to do with you or Riley does he? That low down slime bag.” Cordy said icily. “I’m not finished. Afterwards, we talked some more and…I don’t want happened but I kissed him. The next thing I knew we were in my bedroom and well you know.” Buffy said.

“You slept with him?!? I thought you didn’t want him in your life.” Cordy said confused. “I know. When I woke up this morning I was happier than I’ve ever been. I thought all three of us were gonna be a family, but all he wants is to be involved in Riley’s life. He doesn’t want anything to do me.” Buffy said breaking down and crying.

Willow and Cordy knelt on the floor and held Buffy while she cried, “It’s ok. We’ll beat him up for you. Actually let’s get Doyle, Oz, and Xander to do it.” Cordy said. “Yeah!” Willow agreed. “Thanks, but I don’t think that’s a good idea. If Angel decides to sue for custody then he’ll use that against me.” Buffy said.

“Is he suing you for custody of Riley?” Willow asked. “Not that I know of. He could, he is Riley’s father.” Buffy said. “Let’s have a girl’s night out. Riley can spend the night at Michelle’s.” Cordy said.

Part 7

Michelle’s House

“Thanks again Michelle. You have no idea how much this means to me.” Buffy said. “It’s no problem. I completely understand that you need time to yourself every once in a while especially after someone you trust plays you like that.” Michelle said sympathetically.

“I still can’t believe that he would do that to me. I knew he was a major playboy, but I trusted him.” Buffy said. “Well, you better get going.” Michelle urged. “You’re right.” Buffy agreed kissing Riley bye and joining the girls for some fun.

Angel watched Buffy get in the car with her friends and followed behind them. Angel saw them go to the movie theatre and buy four tickets for the newest horror film “Valentine.” He paid for the same movie and got a seat in the very back.

As soon as the movie ended Buffy, Cordy, Willow, and Anya got up and left for the local club. Angel followed behind and stayed as far away from the group as possible. He knew that if they spotted him they would attack and kill him. He had already gotten warned by the guys in the group including Doyle to stay away from her.

Later That Night

Buffy and the group piled out of the car and into her house ordering a couple of pizzas. Angel crouched low beneath the window hoping the neighbors wouldn’t see him. As he watched he realized how much he really missed Buffy and would always love her no matter what he told himself.

When they finally all left Buffy seemed a little tipsy from the alcohol they had drank. Buffy had drank more than the rest of them, but Angel got a surprise. As soon as the girls left Buffy recovered quickly and cleaned the house. Angel realized that she had been faking the tipsiness.

She started out the room, but came back with photo albums. Angel recognized that one of them was their wedding album. As he watched Buffy flip through the pages and start crying unlike anyone he had ever seen.

She stopped at the picture of just the two of them in their wedding attire. Buffy traced Angel’s face lightly, then slammed the book shut and threw it across the room at the wall. Buffy then started throwing everything she could hurl and hear the dull thud as it hit the wall and fall the floor.

After Buffy was spent she went upstairs and cried herself to sleep, waking every few hours crying out for Angel and longing to feel his arms around.

Part 8

Angel’s Apartment

Angel finally got home that morning at 2 after seeing Buffy cry out for him. Angel knew he was still in love with her and she was still in love with him. All he had to do now was convince her of that.

A Few Weeks Later

Buffy finally got up at 5:30 and had been awake for the last five hours. She had to drop Riley off at Michelle’s and run some errands before five o’clock. She also had to see the doctor in an hour. She finished her coffee and quickly took a shower, then finished getting ready.

Dr. Anderson’s Office

11:30

“Its nice to see you Buffy. How’ve you been?” Dr. Anderson asked coming into the examining room. “I’ve been better.” Buffy replied. “Well, let’s check and see why that is.” he asked interested. “It’s personal problems.” Buffy explained.

“Oh I see.” He replied, “How’s Riley?” he asked hoping to brighten Buffy’s day by talking about her daughter. “Great. She’s the most wonderful child any parent could possibly want.” Buffy replied proudly.

“I’m glad. Let’s start your check-up.” Anderson suggested. “Ok.” Buffy replied lying down on the examining table. “Mmmm. That’s interesting.” Anderson said. “What? Do you feel something?” Buffy asked fearfully.

“I’m sure it’s nothing to worry about, but I wanna run some tests to be sure.” Anderson said. “Ok. Can I call my daughter and tell her I’m gonna be running later?” Buffy asked. “Sure. Go ahead.” Anderson said pointing to the phone.

“Michelle? Yeah…I’m still at the doctors. I’m gonna running a little late. They wanna run some tests…No, I’m fine. Just tell Riley she gets to stay a little longer. Okay, thanks.” Buffy said.

An Hour Later

Buffy sat in the doctor’s office waiting for the results of the test and imagining the worst possible scenarios, cancer or tumors. “Well, Buffy I’ve got some interesting news.” Dr. Anderson said coming into the office.

“I’m dying aren’t I?” Buffy asked. “What? No, of course not. You’re perfectly healthy.” Dr. Anderson promised. “Then what did you find?” Buffy asked slightly confused. “You’re pregnant.” Anderson said. “What?” Buffy asked shocked. “Pregnant. About four weeks along.” Dr. Anderson replied.

“I don’t know what to say.” Buffy said. “Well, I know what to say. Congratulations.” Anderson said. “Thanks.” Buffy replied getting up and leaving for the park.

Angel found Buffy in the park watching Riley playing other children. Angel sat down next down to Buffy and gently laid on a hand on her shoulder. “What do you want?” Buffy asked. “Are you okay?” Angel asked worriedly. “I’m fine. Just peachy.” Buffy replied sarcastically.

“Wanna talk about it?” Angel asked. “Why do you care?” Buffy asked defensively. “Buffy, I’m your friend. I wanna help if I can.” Angel said. “Why? So you can break my heart again?” Buffy asked angrily.

“I thought you understood why I did that. I did it because I love you.” Angel said. “No, you did it because things got tough and your stupid male pride got in the way.” Buffy said.

“Momma, momma! I can’t wait ‘til my brother or sister is born!” Riley called running toward Buffy. “Her brother or sister?” Angel asked confused, “You’re pregnant! I’m gonna be a father again?” Angel asked shocked.

“Yeah. I’m pregnant. And yes it’s yours. Riley this is your father. I’m going to go home.” Buffy said brokenly. “Buffy, wait! Please. I love you. I’m so sorry. I wanna marry you…again.” Angel said.

“No you don’t. You only want to be in the kid’s lives. You don’t want anything to do with me.” Buffy replied crying. “Buffy, that’s not why. I love you and I wanna spend the rest of my life with you.” Angel said.

“Promise?” Buffy asked hopefully. “Yes. I love you and I want all four of us to be a family.” Angel said. “I do too. I love you and yes of course I’ll marry you.” Buffy said.

Angel pulled Buffy into his arms twirling her around, “Angel, stop! I’m getting nauseous.” Buffy protested. “Oh, I’m sorry.” Angel said. “That’s ok. Come on let’s go home and celebrate.” Buffy suggested wickedly.

“What about Riley?” Angel asked. “I came with Michelle, she can watch Riley. Michelle can you bring Riley home later?” Buffy asked. “Sure. I’d love to.” Michelle said knowing what was gonna happen between the two.

“I love the way you think beloved.” Angel said while they raced towards her car.

Later that Afternoon

Angel rolled off of Buffy and to his side pulling her on top of him, “Wow. That was incredible.” Buffy looked up at Angel and said, “Just incredible? I was thinking wonderful, awesome, and terrific.”

“That it was. I don’t remember it being this wonderful.” Angel said. “Me neither. I wonder if it gets better than that.” Buffy replied starting to kiss Angel passionately again.

“What are you doing?” Angel asked shocked. “Making love to you again. Got a problem with it?” Buffy asked smugly. “No way.” Angel said flipping them over again and proceeded to make love to her into late afternoon.

9 Months Later

“Come on beloved. Push, push.” Angle urged. “I am pushing! If you think it’s so easy why don’t you do it!?!” Buffy shouted. “Come on Buffy push. You can yell at me all you want I won’t take it personally.” Anderson said. “You are never touching me again. You’re sleeping on the couch until you die!” Buffy shouted.

Everyone in the delivery room smirked at them. “Come on Buffy one more push.” Buffy took a deep breath and pushed with all her might, “Argh owwwwww. Get it out! Please get it out!” Buffy begged. “Congratulations it’s a boy.” Anderson said giving the baby to the nurse to be cleaned off. “Ohhhh! Owwwwww!” Buffy cried. “Come on Buffy push one more time.” Anderson said.

Buffy pushed more than once shouting the entire time, “Please get him out!” Angel gently rubbed Buffy’s back and held her hand getting the life squeezed out it, “Buffy that hurts.” Angel protested but was silenced by the look on Buffy’s face.

Buffy gave one final push and heard a baby’s cry. “Congratulations it’s a girl.” Anderson said. Buffy collapsed on the bed in exhaustion holding both of them and kissed Angel, “They look like Riley.” Buffy said.

“I love all of you.” Angel said. “I love you too.” Buffy said.

Part 9

Rm. 432

Buffy slowly woke up and saw Angel holding the babies in his arms. “Hey,” Buffy greeted. “Hey. Well we need to pick out some names.” Angel said. “We already picked the names.” Buffy reminded. “Right. Caleb Michael and Katrina Anne.” Angel said. “Exactly.” Buffy said.

Four Years Later

Caleb grew to be a carbon copy of his father while Katrina resembled her mother. “I love you so much.” Buffy said. “I love you too beloved.” Angel said. “I think I’m pregnant.” Buffy said. “Really? Another baby. Let’s celebrate.” Angel replied grabbing Buffy and running upstairs for a private celebration of their own.

THE END