Angel

Discoveries

 

I calmly stare through the hotel, I can’t shake the feeling something will definitely be heading our way soon. Cordelia is busy trying to sort files, I find this highly entertaining to say the least due to the fact Wesley can’t get her to sort to his liking. The two are at it again drawing my attention quickly to the nearest empathic demon, Lorne looks ready to run for his life and glowers at the pair in defeat.

 

Lindsay walks quietly into the hotel raising a brow immediately at the familiar fight and I grin. “What’s up?” I see Gun and Winifred come through both halting each with their own disgusted look. “Hi Fred, Gun.” I quietly take the nearest paper back novel on the desk beside me; Cordelia has become fascinated with them as of late. “Just one minute Angel…” I pause taking aim. “…Have it under control.” I add watching the book smack between Wesley’s shoulder blades and stifle my amused giggle.

 

Wesley glances at the offending weapon before his dark gaze levels onto me. “Neela, was that absolutely necessary?” I scowl at his tone, it was the same British snob tone that made us hate him in the first place back in Sunnydale. “You could have just asked us to stop.” I can see it there, the smile slowly slipping in the corner of his mouth.

 

Wesley knows my look and knows exactly why I’m annoyed. “First of all that tone is what got you disliked before…secondly, when did asking you two to stop ever do any of us any good? You’re always to into your battles to notice how it affects us.” I smile at the dirty look I get from both of them and turn to see Angel curiously watching us.

 

Taking a quick survey of everyone in the room Angel nods as if satisfied. “I’ve heard some news about a demon gang in the area; I need you all on this. The client is an old friend and needs this sorted before her business dies out.” I find it odd that Angel seems so concerned over this ‘friend’ it isn’t like him to be so distant. “Neela, Wesley I need you in my office.” I sigh slipping from the counter and land on my feet with a thud.

 

I always dislike when he broads like this, especially when he calls in the brains in the room to help him. I pause exchanging a curious look with Wesley, neither of us apparently wants to do this and both seem to wonder what is going on. Wesley is the first to enter and I follow, wincing when the door closes with finality behind us.

 

Angel is already engrossed in a file on his desk which catches both our interest in the matter at hand. “The old friend is more like a friend of Jared’s…” he pauses noting my sudden silence and Wesley’s attempt to say something. “…She’s been placed in the area by Jared and is hiding from the center. Jared said he would explain things later.” I find myself sitting across from Angel’s desk but don’t remember how I came to be there.

 

“Angel…who is this friend?” I note my voice is weak, for some reason I can’t shake the feeling Jared has pulled us into the middle of this for a reason.

 

Wesley glances at Angel and shakes his head. “He doesn’t know.” I glance up watching Wesley adjust his glasses before focusing on the list of business issues that have apparently been plaguing our ‘unknown’ friend. “This is a sub group under…” he sighs glancing skyward.

 

“Wolferman and Hart, typical.” I snort eyeing the documents before jumping when something lands gently in my lap. “A picture of…” I stop, for some reason the picture is far too familiar and I am not sure it wise to divulge information without Jared’s consent.

 

“The friend.” Angel almost stares through me and I can’t help but wonder if he knows who the person is. “I want you to take Lindsay with you…the law firm and Lila won’t be far behind. I need to know why they’re so interested in this particular part of town.” I nod deciding that silence is my only option at the moment.

 

I step out of the office allowing Wesley to deal with his concerns with Angel, I don’t want to be dragged into this with the knowledge I do have. “I can’t believe he found her.” I glance at the picture still cupped in my hands and study the image closely. The woman is older, but she still has that carefree spirit in her expression, I remember those eyes and soft smile from Jared’s only picture of her. Not only is it important to help her, but it is wise not to get to much attention in this situation. The Center gets involved and I am sure Jared will loose his chance; Lindsay pauses in his tracks watching me wave him out the door with me. Steering himself back around he follows without question; he can see I’m distracted.

 

Once outside the hotel we both climb into my jeep and are off to the address Angel has given me. I wonder how this woman will react when I tell her who is trying to help her. Will she throw me out? Will she panic and leave for her own safety? Will she want to know Jared and how he’s looked so long? Will she scoff and call the authorities? The questions just seemed to keep coming; it was so overwhelming I nearly forgot that I would be seeing the love of my life again. I hadn’t seen Jared in six months since his last stop of in L.A. I found myself missing him and the occasional visit with Sydney, the only person other than Brutes that actually cared for him to remain free. “Sidney.” I smile slightly at the thought, I talked with him frequently as well as Jared, and he had become a sort of fatherly figure that looked out for both of us.

 

Lindsay finally clears his throat getting my attention. “I’ve never seen you this distracted…what’s going on Neela?” I tuck the photo carefully in my shirt pocket and try to ignore the lack of traffic for such a busy weekend.

 

“Jared’s past is part of this case. Lila and company will bring too much attention and get his friend in trouble with the center.” I decide that is enough of the truth and it won’t betray any of Jared’s trust in me.

 

Lindsay nods arms crossing in a familiar considering fashion. “How did you meet Jared?” I can’t help but turn my attention to him, he never inquired on my relationship before and it brings other thoughts to mind.

 

“He tried to infiltrate the watchers council…I found a kink in his pretend and it sort of went from there. Giles tends to respect my, well what he determines as ‘empath’ skills…it is complicated.” I pull off to the side of the road and get a good look at the crafting supply store, I notice the flowers that seem to flow like a river around the place and smile slightly. “Why?”

 

“I’m not quite sure…I’m trying to get used to being the good guy and you seem too accepting sometimes. I appreciate it.” He adds as an after thought before seeing a woman carefully approach us from the store.

 

I can see some of Jared within her, she’s fearful of the strange vibe we clearly give off. I step from the car and offer her my most encouraging smile. “Lindsay…check around make sure no unwanted company has followed or spotted us. I have to talk with our client.” A very small smile sparks across her lips; she apparently was called about our arrival. “Neela Alston.” Her hand is soft and gently grasps mine tugging me to the shop.

 

“Nice to meet you.” I can see the sadness that lingers in her eyes, I hope that being reunited with Jared might help bring back that glimmer in the picture he has on him at all times. “I’m Noel Forrest.” I like the name, I’m not sure if it’s her real one or not, but it’s a relaxing sort of name.

 

 Following her into the store the first thing I notice is it has been ripped apart, things are strewn about, flowers in ruins, material and craft items scattered in pieces. I see her wince at the imagery before leading me past shattered glass counters and into an office. It’s small with a security door; it appears to be the only untouched room in the entire place. I watch her wearily seat herself among a light wood desk and shuffle papers, finally her resolve cracks and she allows some tears down her face.

 

“I’m sorry Neela…it’s been so hard with…” she stops covering her face and taking a deep breath. “…it’s just been a rough life and this isn’t something I want to deal with right now, authorities are useless according to your boss.” I seat myself carefully on the edge of her desk and watch her eyes meet mine.

 

I force a smile but she appears to see straight through it. “I understand.” I can’t stop my hands from fidgeting and promptly place them between my knees hoping to calm myself. “Did you contact Angel Investigations?” she nods apparently my actions bring about some old unforgotten suspicions. “I know more than I probably should…” I pause hoping this is a good idea and pray Jared doesn’t get upset with me. “I…” I sigh seeing her expression soften, a motherly fashion I remember well from my own. “…I know your…son. I also know about the Center and what you’ve been through. No I don’t work for them, I’m in love with your son and have been with him for at least four years now, maybe more. It’s hard to keep track with all the hell he goes through from that place…

 

“You know Jared?” I stop in my rambling seeing her eyes have brightened, apparently she completely missed the dating her son part. “Please, how is he?” I wonder if she’s still missing important details but decide that the shock probably filtered things.

 

I smile slightly. “Giving the center a run for their money and helping save the world one life at a time. He’s been looking for you for a long time, found his father, Ethan and Kyle. He is supposed to come here and…

 

“No.” Noel stands sharply at this news her gestures frantic. “They will take him again…” she freezes watching me carefully. “You and your friends protect him…you said you love him?” I feel my cheeks flush but try to ignore the embarrassment; apparently she didn’t miss my comments like I considered.

 

“Very much.” My voice is lower than usual. “We’ve been protecting him since I met him. He has friends all over the place, including feds and so on. He’s got lots of help to avoid any recapture attempts. He needs to meet you Noel, he has a place that has yet to be filled in his heart and as corny as I sound…you have to give him the chance to know you.” I hope I sound convincing but her doubt is clear in her expression.

 

“I can’t let the center find me…I do wish to see him.” I can’t help but reach out and catch her hand.

 

“I know. We have ways of allowing this without you being found out.” I nearly jump out of my skin when Lindsay appears at the office doorway holding the cell phone. “Shit, you scared me Lindsay.” I take the cell and swallow my past rush of fear.

 

“Where are you?” I recognize his voice immediately and exit the room.

 

I pause leaning against the wall hearing Lindsay discussing what we have planned to protect her and save her store. “At…” I pause taking a breath. “…At the store and it’s a disaster. You’re mother is alright though and she wants to meet you.” I hope he isn’t too angry with me.

 

“My mother…she’s there?” I note the unsure tone in his voice. “What did you say to convince her not to run?” I’m relieved he isn’t annoyed with me and nearly slide down the wall with relief.

 

“My usual…you know very well how I work…

 

“You turn psychology against someone, Sidney’s taught you well my dear.” I smirk; his amused tone is rather comforting considering what I originally expected. “I’ll be there in ten minutes, Lila appears to be heading out to make a deal.” I hear a click and stare at the dead phone.

 

I turn into the office and snatch Lindsay’s collar hauling him out and offering an apologetic smile toward Noel. “He’s spying on Lila!” I hiss seeing his eyes widen at my suddenly confrontational attitude. “Lindsay…get Angel and get out side to watch for trouble.” He nods taking the phone and hustling from the ruined store.

 

Noel appears at my side her expression concerned. “Is Jared doing something dangerous?” I meet her soft green gaze and wonder if telling her ‘yes’ will change her mind about meeting up with him. “I want to meet him; I won’t leave if that is what you fear.” I internally wince, I’m not so sure that mothers don’t have sixth senses around the world now.

 

“Yes and no. He’s doing something stupid, but it doesn’t mean he’s in any danger. He’s dealt with Lila before as well as the rest of us. This particular group isn’t new to any of us, especially Angel.” I push her back into the office and slam the door behind us. “Damn.” I grab the coat rack beside the door and wait; I’m not in the mood to deal with any of the firm’s surprises.

 

I hear familiar sounds of fighting outside, which includes to my relief a very pissed off sounding Angel and Gun. I hold my weapon watching the door being flung open and halt nearly taking off the head of Cordelia; she promptly shuts the door behind her with a curse at the bang that followed.

 

“Rude much…I like my head.” I give her a dirty look for her sarcasm and wince at the crash that follows soon after the previous. “That had to be Lindsay and his partner in crime.” I raise a brow at her amused tone and am out the door before she can protest.

 

I halt among the fighting chaos and watch both Jared and Lindsay haul a demon sharply across the room. (BANG) I watch the demon climb back to his feet from the door and whap him hard with the coat rack. (SNAP) I sigh tossing aside my former weapon and kick the demon over top of a crouched Lindsay, Angel follows through with a sword and quick decapitation.

 

I feel myself pulled to the side and roll with my rescuer. “Miss me?” I smile up at Jared’s amused expression before pulling him with me to avoid another demon.

 

“Always, but reunions have to wait. WESLEY!” at my shout the former watcher ducks watching Gun easily take out another demon. “How many of these things are there?” Jared holds up seven fingers and then adds ten more to that. “Ew.”

 

We’re both on our feet attacking two demons that have decided to attempt to break in the office, I can hear Cordelia on the other side ordering Noel around and grab up a former material rack. The metal pole makes a grating sound against the wall when Jared and I both ram it through the demon, I groan at the black blood that oozes out of the tube and down my shirt. It never fails, somehow we always wear part of our attackers, I can swear I hear a familiar voice calling off the demons and watch them retreat.

 

“Lila’s got more.” Lindsay notes Angel, Gun, Wesley, Lorne, and Winifred join us all looking thoroughly maimed and beaten. “She’s calling a retreat for a bigger attack; we need to get Noel out of here…

 

Cordelia opens the door gently tugging a very timid looking Noel into the room; she offers me the softest of smiles before taking in the demons and the others. “Hotel now…we’ll deal later?” Cordelia hopes that her wish is considered but is distracted by the strange look exchanged between Jared and their current client.

 

I pull Cordelia over to the others and gently wrap my hand with Jared’s, this must be the confirmation that Noel was waiting for. “Jared?” I release his hand walking casually over to the others, we have to leave but I can’t rush this just yet.

 

“Who’s the woman and how does she…” I silence Wesley’s questions by planting my hand over his mouth; I don’t need this to all happen just yet.

 

Angel carefully slips my keys from my hand. “Lindsay, Gun, Lorne, Winifred, and Cordy…take Neela’s car and meet us back at the hotel, get one of the upper level rooms ready. We don’t need the center finding either of them if Ms. Parker again decides to come looking. Neela, Jared, Wesley, Ms. Forrest and I will meet you there.” Without another argument from any of the others, they leave quickly and I watch Noel practically squish Jared in a hug.

 

I ignore the sting of tears at my eyes; instead I smile glad to see that maybe Jared can at least get his family together one day again. Now that we know how to find his mother, it won’t be hard to unite Kyle, Ethan and his father again with her. For the first time since I met Jared I wonder if what we have will end, now that he has his family again he really doesn’t need a girlfriend to linger around his reunion party. “Maybe it’s time to move on?” I don’t like this feeling, but then again I feel that Jared needs this time to heal. A saying once long ago said let it go and if it comes back it was meant to be yours, I wasn’t ready to let go to my growing anxiety and I didn’t know what would happen after this demon solving mystery case was over with. “He has his family again, that is all that has ever mattered and I won’t let him give it up for me. I love him too much to do something so selfish.” I force a smile for his benefit watching him arm and arm with his mother approach us.

 

I feel arms wrap me close to a very feminine body and am surprised by Noel’s sudden affection. “Thank you so much, you’ve brought my family back to me again.” Her soft words force my previous fears at bay for the moment and I hug her in turn.

 

“Hate to interrupt…Lila’s got more friends on the way.” Wesley gives Angel a strange look before following him out toward the car.

 

I follow behind Jared and Noel; I can’t help but continue to feel those concerns that I may loose him. It’s frustrating to feel so confused and upset and yet I’m happy for him. I find myself climbing into the back of Angel’s car, I get a pleasant surprise when Jared joins me and wraps an arm around my shoulders. I give Noel a quick glance out of the corner of my eye and see to my surprise a very happy almost glow in her eyes. “Does she want him to keep me?” it sends my anxieties to a sudden calm; I glance up briefly into dark eyes and settle comfortable at his side.

 

Once back at the hotel I watch Jared take off talking with Noel, I can’t help but smile knowing that a lot of his questions will finally be answered. I groan finding about ten books piled in front of me giving Wesley the most evil look I can manage. I start to make a protest to go check on Jared and Noel, but he’s already one step ahead of me.

 

“They’re going to be a while, you need to help so we can keep this reunion going…” he pauses ignoring my scowl and adjusts the book in hand. “…he isn’t going to abandon you to sort his life, if anything Neela…he will be taking you with him.” I attempt to smack him with a rather thick book; instead I focus on the books at hand.

 

“Wesley always did have a way with words.” Scanning over the various volumes before me I try to focus on which species of demons or monsters Lila has hired. I feel like I’ve gone through twenty books before Cordelia plants one right under my nose. I give her a look but she grins waving me off and wanders off for more research. “They’re fighting again.” I see Winifred pause beside me and shake her head, Lorne looks ready to have a brain blast or worse and it’s too quiet for this kind of research.

 

I drop the book under Wesley’s nose watching him jump. “You two argue like an old married couple. I’m going to see how Jared and Noel are doing.” I leave on that note; I can hear stifled laughter and know I’m receiving two very evil looks.

 

I don’t care about this and continue my way up the stairs and hope I don’t find any weak spots in the wing that Angel carefully instructed them to take refuge in. I carefully step around obvious weak spots and cringe hearing a creak, thankfully it isn’t followed by me plummeting to some unknown crash landing. I can hear voices and find myself pausing outside a door, after stepping around a very clear deep hole and some part of a wall that has collapsed partially.

 

I listen carefully to the soft voices and halt in my attempt to enter the room. “You’re lucky Jared…most women would give up the minute they learned of what comes from the center. You turned out wonderfully and I like Neela. She respects you and seems like she loves you very much.” I hear an almost uncomfortable sound before a nervous chuckle escapes Jared.

 

I smirk; mothers never cease to amaze me in skill to embarrass their offspring. “I know that…mom, it’s just strange that she hasn’t run for the hills. No matter what happens she’s always there. Is that normal?” I’m surprised to hear this and wonder if I should continue to be the rodent I was or sneak off and return.

 

“Yes.” Noel sounds amused bringing my attention to focus on opening the door or retreating again. “She loves you; love makes you do crazy things and is why the world goes round. You’re father would love her…does Ethan and Kyle like her?” I hear the hesitance in her voice, I can tell that they’ve discussed a lot of serious issues and now they’re focusing on a lighter topic.

 

“She hasn’t met them; I’m not even sure where they are at present time. Dad hasn’t called me in a while and Ethan is still within Center protection. Kyle is seen as a criminal, which gets him in a lot of serious trouble. I have spoken to Kyle, he seems fond of her just by what I’ve told him…actually would like me to allow her to turn her temper on the center and see what happens.” I hear the dry tone in his voice, I know my tempers bad but him sounding so not thrilled bothers me a bit. “I worry about her, she lets her emotions control everything and I’m sure she’s going to get hurt. How do I protect her?”

 

“By letting her be herself, that’s why you clearly love her and…” I hear Noel hesitate and wonder what is going on within the room. “…if she was in any real danger or threat…she wouldn’t be here protecting you. What does Ms. Parker think of her?”

 

“Probably would like to wring her neck.” I hear the laughter in his tone and decide being a busy body is over; I’ve been enough of a sneak for one day. “Those two have faced off before and in all honesty…I think Neela would win.” I start to open the door making a pretend show of not eavesdropping.

 

(CRUNCH, CRACK) “SHIT!” the floor gives just as I enter and I cling tightly to the hole.

 

I hear two pairs of feet rush to my aid and am aware of Jared hauling me to safety into his arms. “Why do you always find the weak spots the hard way?” I peek out of one eye and stick out my tongue at Jared’s amusement.

 

“I don’t know…sometimes I think this building is out to get me.” I smile slightly at Noel’s amusement, he blushes slightly at her clear motherly look and allows me to step to his side out of harms way. “Settling in alright?”

 

Noel nods walking carefully over to the bed and room set up for her; he seems a little nervous about something and offers me a small smile. “I need to talk with Angel.” I nod watching him avoid the hole and glance back. “Please don’t find anymore holes while I’m gone.” I give him a glare watching him hustle off with laughter following in his wake.

 

I hear laughter behind me and turn to face his mother. “He loves you very much Neela…you’re pretty good at eavesdropping, not very graceful on the pretend entry though.” I swear mothers have a sixth sense or something for mischief. “One day I hope that we can all be a normal family again…I would like to see him happily married to you. It’s nice to know someone can care even among this mess. I hate what has happened; it wasn’t fair to any of us, mostly Jared. He deserves a family, normalcy and to have peace.” I tilt my head to the sound of anger in her voice; it is rather strange to hear it from someone so gentle.

 

“Married? Jared and I haven’t…

 

“I know. That doesn’t mean it won’t be a possibility. I may not have seen him in a while but a mother knows…we have a sixth sense about that sort of thing.” I know I’m red, I can feel the heat in my face before I turn to a sharp call from Gun.

 

“Um ok…excuse me Noel.” I carefully maneuver around the hole and run quickly to meet Gun at the stairs. “What is it?”

 

I watch Jared give me a sidelong glance before disappearing quickly down to his mother; I cringe already getting a very, very good idea that Ms. Parker and resident annoying brother Lyle are present downstairs. I wonder why it can’t be just Sidney and Brutes; it would be so much more of a pleasant visit. Reluctantly I make my way down the stairs and watch Cordelia glare at Lye who apparently has gotten under her skin. She looks livid and is furiously filing things, ignoring Wesley’s various depressed expressions.

 

“Where is Jared?” I stop at Lyle’s cold tone, one of these days I may just take his cheap tie and pull it until he’s blue in the face.

 

Angel glances at my almost dark expression and watches the others move swiftly out of my path, Lorne listens to my soft attempt at calming myself, somehow humming the “Jaws” theme doesn’t seem to encourage him and he nearly dives for the spot closest to Angel. I’m not a fan of Lyle’s tone or his ordering nature, Ms. Parker appears to be amused and waiting for something.

 

Sidney and Brutes watch, both note my unhappy expression. “I don’t know Lyle. Thanks to you and your pain in the neck sister, I haven’t seen him in weeks. I was actually worried you finally caught up with him. Now leave L.A. there is nothing here for you to take to your sleazy place of work.” I note the offended look Ms. Parker has, her sneer turns almost vicious.

 

“Don’t you dare use that tone…I know he’s hear. We have a tip from a lawyer…she belongs to a very well known firm.” I see Lindsay tense and sigh giving her a look.

 

“Lila isn’t the best of sources Ms. Parker…she’s currently demon central around here, a lawyer for hell to put it to the point. Do you really think she’s a great source of information?” her sneer falters, focusing quickly on her brother who looks miserable. “Sort of like your run in’s with Spike and Dru.” I smile watching Lyle flinch at the mentioned names and turn a pale shade. “Now can we get back to…

 

“Yes.” All eyes focus on Sidney for a minute, he looks almost curious and I know that questioning look. He can tell I’m protecting more than just Jared; his dark eyes scan each of us carefully before focusing on his companions. “I think we should leave before getting involved in another demon issue.” Reluctantly Ms. Parker and Lyle agree with him and turn to leave, Brutes looks just plain relieved.

 

“Sidney?” Carefully his eyes turn to Lyle; his dark smirk makes me wonder what is so amusing to him. “Stay here…we will check in with you periodically for information on Jared. We can’t just leave this source untapped…she did indicate it’s been a while, he will need to come find his lovely lady toy eventually. I’m sure he’s missing the action she can provide.” Angel had me around the waist and pinned, I wanted to rip Lyle Parker apart.

 

“Very well.” Sidney looked considerably agitated but resisted the urge to come to anyone’s defense; he couldn’t afford a scene at this point. “Mr. Brutes…I will contact you?” Brute’s nods knowing very well Sidney is trying to get him out of demon central.

 

“Come along Brutes…Ms. Parker” Lyle adds the last bit with enough sarcasm to tick her off, she quickly stomps after him ready to pulverize him.

 

We go back to work as usual, Sidney helping in research until Angel is very sure all is clear. Lorne also offers the ok and wanders back to researching the current problem. I am hesitant about filling Sidney in on everything, Jared trusts him and I do, but Noel may not have any faith or trust in anyone.

 

“Jacob?” I glance up seeing Jared guiding his mother down the main stairs; I feel my mouth open in surprise before promptly closing it and hopping from my seat on the counter.

 

Sidney meets her eyes and offers a painful smile. “I’m afraid not Noel.” I gather at least her first name is legitimate. “I’m glad you finally found her Jared…she won’t be…

 

“Sidney.” Her tone is almost bitter and forces both Jared and I to raise a brow in surprise. “Why is he here and why did you bring me down Jared?” She turns sharply fear clearly in each move she makes, I realize the problem and see Jared too come to his own conclusions.

 

“Please let him explain.” I plead with Noel; I hope she trusts me at least a little bit.

 

Noel turns sharply an accusing look about her, her eyes soften though and she sighs waving Jared into his explanation. I have never seen Jared look like such a child in my life, he looks almost terrified he had done something very wrong and was about to learn what punishment was ‘mother’ style.

 

Sidney clears his throat; he’s ready to go to Jared’s aid. “I’ve been trying to help Jared elude the center and recapture since he did escape. I got close to him and he was one of my dearest students…it’s been years, but he’s all I really have that is even close to family. Jacob died not long ago; he never got to share that part of his life with me.” He pauses trying to further explain himself but Jared cuts in.

 

“Sidney’s been protecting me like a second father for a very long time. He convinced me to trust Neela and sort of helped us along our way. He’s a guardian within the center, trying to keep us free.” Noel looks confused, worried and hurt all at once; I wonder what has her so mixed up.

 

“Jacob’s gone?” Sidney nods watching her expression soften further. “I’m sorry Sidney.” She finally seems to allow her guard down and makes her way over to my side and extends her hand to Sidney. “Thank you.”

 

His dark eyes focus briefly on her hand before he accepts it and smiles. “Always happy to help. What are you fighting against now?” at this Cordelia goes crashing to the floor in a great deal of pain, another vision takes over at this point.

 

Lorne has the medicine handy and Wesley even if he’s annoyed with her has the water ready for her in minutes. “Lila….more demons…coming…

 

“Here.” Gun starts grabbing weapons; we can hear them now, on the roofs, sidewalks and any other way they can get into the building.

 

We’re under attack, there’s no way around this and now we have to face Lila on her terms. I turn watching the she-devil make her way in from the main entrance, her dark suit only reminding me of death; I wanted to beat her to a pulp.

 

“Now…let’s negotiate.” Noel is pulled behind Sidney while the rest of us gather weapons; I smile slightly at her edgy look and know she remembers my temper. “Cover that woman.” A vampire in full vamp mode comes carefully toward me, I’m not that easily pinned and lift a stake from my pocket.

 

I wonder what the vampire thinks now that I have a weapon he won’t live from. I inch my fingers around a hidden throwing dagger and wait before aiming the blade just past her shoulder. (Thunk!) She yelps in surprise turning to the wall beside her, the blade just missed her throat.

 

“I didn’t want to bloody the carpet…yet.” My smile fades showing her I’m in no mood for her crap. “What do you want Lila?”

 

I note several brows rise at the attention she puts to the dagger again, before she turns to face all of us several shades paler. “I said cover her.” She snarls at the vampire who again focuses on the stake in my hand, her eyes flare but yet again he ignores the order.

 

“Get to the point?” Angel steps forward watching her closely along with any threat to the others, dark eyes are scanning me intently before attention is back on Lila.

 

Lila hesitates noting my dark look but despite my temper she allows that all knowing smirk of hers to cross her lips. “We have learned quite a bit about her boyfriend and the woman you’re protecting…I’m very sure that we can come to an arrangement that will keep you all out of our affairs?” I feel a hand lock on my wrist and glance down, slowly I follow the appendage to meet Jared’s warning look.

 

“Don’t.” His warning is soft but I can see the anger there.

 

“One reason why not?” I remark softly noting an almost hesitant smile quirk his lips.

 

“Because I love you.” He notes my sigh but instead of arguing I watch things unfold before me.

 

Sighing in defeat I feel his hand remove from my wrist and feel both his arms wrap around my waist, he has come to know me far too well now. “What kind of affairs?”

 

Instead of Angel getting into the obvious battle between Lila and myself he watches the safety of all of us carefully, alert for any trouble. “What would make you think I would explain this to…

 

“Because she won’t miss a second time.” Angel offers darkly watching Gun and Wesley easing their way into a fighting position while Lindsay guides Noel and Sidney to Lorne’s side for safety. “Are you going to explain?”

 

Pursing her lips in a sour pout Lila makes a slight movement with her hand, which I notice Angel giving a signal in turn for the action. “We have business in that part of town, her shop was in the way and we hoped that a slight scare may do the trick…unfortunately she’s more stubborn than those she’s hiding from.”

 

“If you knew as much as you claim about the Center…” Sidney pauses feeling Lindsay’s hand lift stopping him from stepping into the room. “…You would know that there are employee’s close by to them and they are already under observation.” He adds softly noting Lila quirk a brow at the smug tone in his voice.

 

Under normal circumstances all of us would be on alert with a threat like this, but Sidney was a friend and it was an empty threat, he was testing how much Wolferman and Hart actually had on the Center. His attempt was to further out knowledge and be subtle at the same time. Wesley and the others were in an attack formation, but Noel and Sidney weren’t in the safest of places for a fight to happen, we would have to all move fast if I got Angel’s faint movements right.

 

The tension is thick within the room and I’m sure I am not the only one to notice this; quickly I turn from Jared’s grasp and haul it over to his mother and Sidney. He has a sword at the ready the minute Lila calls out the ‘attack’ order. I skid to a halt catching a vampire with a stake inches from pouncing on Noel from behind. Sidney ducks when a crossbow is fired watching the bolt land within another’s.

 

I can’t help the smile I offer when Lorne makes a disgusted look and drops the weapon harshly on the counter. “I do not fight and weapons are so…LOOK OUT!” I turn sharply a dagger reflexively against my attacker’s throat and note a very shocked wide-eyed Lila staring me straight in the eyes.

 

I watch her swallow hard a nick of red slowly produces against her neck for the reaction. “You threatened the one I love and things he cares about. What’s stopping me?” I see her skin grow ashen at the evil tone in my voice; the attempt to protest from the others is cut off by Lorne who is immediately waving them off.

 

“The fact you have a conscience.” A hand lowers mine from Lila’s neck and Lindsay stands there with a sword aimed where my dagger had once been. “Doesn’t mean I do…I worked for the same firm.” I lower my weapon back to my side; I feel my body shaking but refuse to falter from my attack position.

 

“I’m weak.” I frown when the thought slips into my consideration, that is one thing I am not but in this case it takes great strength to control my emotion. Lila is evil and loves her job despite going straight to hell for her progress in the firm. I sense someone come up to my left and halt in raising my weapon, a flash of red brown hair makes me recognize Noel immediately.

 

“Relax.” A motherly tone in her voice makes me comply for some reason and soon I watch the fight ending, Lindsay still holding Lila hostage. “Jared?”

 

Glancing up at her voice he turns watching Noel trying to calm Neela, he recognizing the anger and can see she is fighting the shaking within herself. She is furious and can’t control her body anymore. Quickly escaping the last vampire he has dusted he walks hastily over to both women’s sides. The others are taking care of the issues and Angel is left to deal with Lila, Lindsay reluctantly letting her free of his sword.

 

The knife falls from my hand the minute a familiar grasp encircles my wrist, dodging the weapon Lorne raises a brow before lifting it like it has every germ ever placed in the world upon it. Jared shakes his head at the familiar demon friend, before scooping me into his arms and exiting from the room toward the room I live in while in L.A. I hear the door shut but refuse to do anything but cling to him, shaking horribly and closing my eyes against the fury that is claiming my very being.

 

It was about an hour before I un-clung from him, I realized he had been cradling me on my bed in his lap for all that time, waiting. “You’re still trembling Neela.” I focus on his soft voice before allowing my eyes to meet his gaze.

 

“I’m still very pissed off too.” I add still miffed at how Lila would probably be dumped off at Wolferman and Hart with a warning from Angel, again.

 

“I know.” I wish he would stop using that so soft, ‘I love you’ tone of his. “Would you like to rant or should I just kiss you now?”

 

I glance up at that and wrinkle my nose in annoyance. “I bite and ranting will be heard around the world and…

 

Before I can finish he kisses me softly fingers slowly lifting into my hair, reluctant to surrender to this I try to pull back, he ignores my attempt and continues to kiss me and finally I cave. The kiss ends and again I meet those amused dark eyes and huffed.

 

“I won.” I would disagree to that personally, but again I had given in so it seems he did win. “Are you calmed down yet?”

 

“No, let me guess…you need to head out again so you can get your mom to safety and we both know Lila will hold to her threat.” Studying my expression I can see he’s torn between something and I feel sort of bad for being so sarcastic, even if it wasn’t my intention to do so.

 

Instead of answering he kisses me again and climbs to his feet allowing me the freedom to move about the room. I start to say something but hear the door close behind me very lightly and turn seeing he has gone. “Stupid, stupid, STUPID!” I stand walking to the door and stop; I don’t know what to really do or whether I should go after him. I had just made life complicated.

 

I carefully allow my door open a crack and see Jared talking with Noel, a small smile on his lips and then a slight almost sad turn to his expression. “Would you like to talk about it Neela, future psychiatrist that is arrested for beating someone, for hurting someone?” Sidney’s amused tone startles me and I nearly fall forward shutting my door.

 

“Was that necessary Sidney?” I question staring at his amused expression before noting my boyfriend and his mother vanished from sight.

 

Sidney waits my exit from the room before eyeing me critically. “No, what happened to get you so worked up?”

 

“I said something stupid and no I don’t want to talk about it.” I answer waiting for Jared’s reappearance and hoping that I can try and mend whatever I have done.

 

Nodding Sidney quietly returns to assisting the others watching me carefully, he knows more than he’s letting on and it makes me twitchy. I turn nearly jumping out of my skin; Angel is watching me closely a barely noticeable smile crossing his lips. Sighing tiredly I give him a look that clearly states ‘don’t do that!’ shrugging he observes my body language and raises a brow.

 

“Don’t ask.” I state firmly before hearing Jared’s voice and turning sharply, he appears to be amused and talking with both Sidney and his mother. “I think I need to go back into my hovel.” I remark dodging all curious looks my direction and going back into my room.

 

Instead of wondering what was so funny between the others, I pace my room mentally beating myself up over my sarcasm and emotional roller-coaster I carry within myself. I could put a rut in my floor for how often I accomplish this particular event, but continue to strive for a new record. I stop mid-turn and watch my door open almost cautiously; Cordelia is there with a curious expression on her face, a strange spark in her gaze.

 

She walks in quickly followed by Winifred. “Why are you hiding in here?” Winifred is the first to speak.

 

“Because I did something stupid.” Sarcasm evident in my voice I watch Cordelia’s eyes spark again and wonder what the hell is going on.

 

“I don’t think so…something…” Winifred pauses watching Cordelia cover a nearly invisible giggle before leaving the room rapidly. “…something’s up. Excuse Cordy.” She adds softly, her tender nature always eases my anxieties for some reason.

 

“Fred?” tilting her head in a familiar inquiring way she waits for me to continue. “What do you know and why is Cordy acting like an airhead?” before she can reply she giggles at my reference and crosses her arms.

 

“Well…” Pausing I see that same spark appear in Winifred’s gaze and sigh miserably knowing I won’t get an answer until I go find out for myself. “…Come ask yourself.” With that a form of confidence which is rare in her actions appears, and she exits with a wave of her hand.

 

“Ask myself?” I mimic them both sarcastically wondering what is going on that has this odd amused air about everyone; I had thought Jared might be angry with me or something.

 

Knock, knock

 

“What?” I cover my mouth realizing I had snapped.

 

Slowly the door opens and Jared makes his entrance with a risen brow and confused look. I watch the door shut behind him and swear everyone is right outside the door; they all look like their waiting for something to happen.

 

“Not another threat.” I internally cringe feeling the thought slowly grounding within my head and heart. “Sorry about that.” I add referring to my snappish behavior.

 

Dark eyes are intense on me a small smile teasing at the corner of his mouth. “What has you so tense?” I give him a dark look and harrumph. “Oh…” he glances behind him and then at me again. “…Those two, and I didn’t leave because of you. I had something to talk over with the others.” He is purposely catching my interest now; I remember those lurking outside and wonder what I missed.

 

“You mean giggly Fred and airhead Cordy?” His laughter is warm and eases my annoyance. “What did you do?” I give him a playful scolding look, but it fades with his hand which is tucked inside his coat pocket.

 

“Nothing…yet.” He adds making me again raise a brow. “How long have you had to put up with me now and everything else?” I could swear I didn’t like where this was headed, my previous fears coming back to haunt me.

 

“Six years? Maybe more…what are you doing?” I asked worried I was loosing him.

 

“More like ten.” He adds which reminds me I hate being reminded I’m old.

 

“Bleck…I’m old.” He again laughs at my expense, which is not amusing in this sense.

 

“Are not.” Walking over he lifts my hand kissing it softly, at this point I’m aware of something soft in my hand and feel his draw back.

 

Clumsily I clasp the small box and give him a funny look. I eye the box and then study him; he indicates to open it and ignores my suspicious look. “If this is…” I stop opening the box and finding a diamond ring there, not a white diamond but a blue one. Small but my dream engagement ring. “Cordy!” I then realize who told him and what was going on.

 

“Yes Cordy, I can read your expression far too well…” Jared pauses watching me study the ring warily. “Will you eventually consider marrying me after this is all over?” I allow my eyes to focus on his and then lift the ring out like it is just a piece of fine glass.

 

Placing the ring on I meet his gaze and smile. “YES!” I hoped the whole crowd outside the door fell on their asses after that and promptly dove into his arms.

 

I was swung around before our lips met and snuggled close, I finally got his mother’s amused talk upstairs with me and realized it was no longer an if, mothers had a sixth sense no matter who, or where they were.

 

THE END