Fanfiction Frenzy
© Sara
Cordelia looked furtively around the office, making sure she was alone. Angel was out prowling the streets, looking for souls to save and Wesley had gone out of town on an antique book hunt. He was determined to find the ancient books he needed to decipher the scroll and the prophecy. She hoped he was successful. The sooner that scroll was deciphered, the sooner they could figure out where to go and what to do to move toward Angel's becoming human. And maybe then she could explore a relationship with her enigmatic boss.
But for now, she had the office to herself, along with the computer.
Smiling eagerly, she clicked on the Internet icon and smiled as she connected to her site. A smile broke out across her face as she noticed the email icon flashing.
She had mail!
She clicked on the blinking figure and the screen changed to show she had 8 messages. She felt herself smile stupidly as she clicked on the first one.
Hi Angel's Lover,
I just had to tell you how much I enjoyed the latest story in your "Dark Night" series. The power and passion behind it were incredible. And your hero… I've told you from story one that I wish he existed. I also like the way you characterized the growing relationship between the characters in this one. Talk about unresolved sexual tension, you've built it up for three stories, and boy did you deliver with the fourth. I can't begin to tell you how much I enjoyed reading it. I even printed it out to read to my husband… and let me tell you, it lit a fire between us all right. Adam and Christina are truly soul mates and I'm so glad you finally made them realize this, everyone else already had. Although I'm one to talk. It took my husband and me five years of working together before we actually admitted how we felt. Even then it wasn't easy… but despite some shakeups… I've never been happier. But you really wanted to know this didn't you? Anyhow, thanks for the great writing, and I can't wait for the next one!
RitaLee
Cordelia felt a stupid grin cross her face. RitaLee was one of her favorite email pals, and she always gave the nicest feedback on her fanfiction. She was extremely glad RitaLee liked her latest effort, she hadn't been sure what people would think about her finally consummating the relationship between her two main characters.
Sad fact was, it wasn't going to be consummated in real life.
Of course, no one knew that "Dark Night" was a twisted version of her and Angel's lives at Angel Investigations. But once she'd started writing, she couldn't stop. She'd poured everything she was feeling, hoping and dreaming into her story. And by doing so, found an outlet to express her frustration and her almost unbearable love for Angel.
She'd discovered her first fanfiction site almost four months ago. She'd been searching for "Etros Demon" on the web… and the search had directed her to a page simply labeled "Demons." Of course, when she'd opened the page, she'd discovered a list of what looked like story titles. Wondering if they contained the information she needed, she'd opened one entitled "Demon Knight." To her surprise, she'd found it was a story… written by someone… about one of her favorite TV shows.
So she'd started reading… and gotten hooked.
Several hours later she'd found herself sitting bleary eyed and tired before the computer, but had read every single story on the "Demon" site. She'd been amazed by how much the writing moved her.
From that moment on, she'd scoured the net in her free time, looking for similar sites and finding fanfiction for almost every show out there. As she'd gotten used to reading the stories, and frantically searching for updated archives, she found herself replying to the authors, unable to resist pointing out what she'd liked and found appealing about the stories. She'd actually found she enjoyed chatting with other authors about their stories.
Besides, aside from acting, she'd always liked writing… even though she'd never done much of it. It had always been something she'd thought she could do, if she ever found the time.
So one day, several months after she'd joined what seemed like hundreds of mailing lists and e-groups, she'd suddenly felt the urge to try writing a story herself.
She'd had a horrid day dealing with Angel and his possessiveness, made all the more annoying by the fact she wanted to throw herself into his arms and ravish him. But, he'd been too worried she'd try and follow him on his latest soul saving mission. She'd been angry and frustrated as she'd stormed into the outer office and slammed the door.
After he'd gone, she'd flipped on the computer, deciding to lose herself in fanfiction. But her anger wouldn't go away. So, she figured she might as well put her feelings down on paper, besides, who knew what someone else would make of them.
So Adam and Christina had been born. The rest, as they said, was history.
From then on, she'd spent most of her time at the office writing in spurts and fits, whenever Angel and Wesley weren't around. Luckily, since they seemed determined to keep her home and 'safe,' she was going to do something to keep busy, and try and ignore the hurt of them not thinking she could handle slaying. She supposed she knew they were right, but it still annoyed her.
So, she'd rebelled by writing. About her life. About the agency. About Angel.
Angel had become Adam, and she had become Christina. Adam was a private investigator who liked working late hours, had a tortured soul because of a bad childhood, was determined to save the world, and always wore a flowing black coat, which swirled around him as he walked.
Christina was his partner. His full-fledged partner, as in she went out on cases as well and defended herself against whatever evil they might face. She bravely fought by Adam's side and they'd become quite a team. Of course, she'd also made sure to play up the sexual tension between them. She figured if she couldn't get any satisfaction from Angel in real life, she might as well put her fantasies into her stories.
So, filled with trepidation, she'd posted her first story.
Several hours later when she'd logged back on, the email had started coming and it hadn't stopped.
So far, the "Dark Night" Series consisted of four stories, and the feedback had been phenomenal. She got at least 10 responses a day to each piece, and most of them were favorable. She couldn't deny the sense of pride and the thrill she felt knowing someone was enjoying her writing. She figured she'd have to take enjoyment from that, since Angel was probably never going to fulfill them in real life.
She sighed, smiling slightly as she turned back to the computer and clicked on the next message.
Angel's Lover,
Just had to tell you how much I enjoyed the latest "Dark Night" story. I'm so glad you finally made Adam face his past and put it behind him. And the sex… well, I certainly hope your romantic life is as good as the one you write. My partner caught me reading it… and let's just say I didn't get to finish the story until the next morning. That should tell you something right there, especially because almost nothing stirs my partner… and your writing did what I've been trying to do for six years. If I'd only known it would take one NC-17 fanfic… and a rough week at the office. So thank you for helping my personal life, as well as giving Adam and Christina a romantic life. I don't care what people say about not getting involved with someone you work with. Thanks to you, my partner and I just did… and I can't say I ever want to go back to being just friends. Seems like Adam and Christina had the right idea. So thank you… and I can't wait to read the next part… how soon will it be out? Great job girl!
Dana M. Luder
Cordelia felt her smile grow as she basked in Dana's words. She was another fellow author who enjoyed the stories. And always sent feedback, something Cordelia had come to crave. It was funny too how her main readers seemed to identify with her situation… or at least with Adam and Christina's. You just never knew about people.
She had to smile as well at the line about Dana and her partner 'getting it on' from her writing. Well, that was something to be proud of, she supposed. Her imagination surely did justice to her fantasies, and in her stories, it was anything goes. She knew getting Adam and Christina together would be tricky unless it was written right, and she'd agonized for days over how to do it.
Inspiration had struck after yet another argument with Angel. He'd been annoyed she was going out with her friends one night… and was wearing one of her normal short little dresses. He'd tried to get her change, but all he'd ended up doing was making her angry. She wasn't good enough for him, but she couldn't go try and find someone to take his place. Well, after their heated words, she'd stormed out. They'd made up the next day, but it was just another log on the fire of their growing attraction.
Because it was growing. Daily. And it wasn't all one sided.
She smiled to herself as she remembered how Angel jumped every time they brushed against each other, or of the way she'd catch him looking at her when he didn't think she'd noticed. The tension and undercurrents had been growing, sparks flying whenever they were in the same room as they both struggled to control themselves and their rising desires.
Well, at least Cordelia struggled. She had a feeling Angel was way to good at denying his emotions. It was frustrating.
So, all these feelings and frustrations had come out in the passionate office encounter that had marked Adam and Christina's transition to lovers. And there was definitely more romance on the way. She wasn't sure how to write it, but she knew, deep in her heart, that there was a way for partners and best friends to make a romantic relationship work.
If she needed proof… she could just go as RitaLee and Dana. They seemed to be doing just fine with their partners.
She smiled again, already planning the next "Dark Night" story in her head as she clicked the next email.
*****
Hey Angel's Lover,
Wow! That's all I have to say about the latest "Dark Night" story. Thank GOD you finally got them together. One more story of UST and I'd be climbing the walls. And the way they released that sexual tension… well, let's just say it brought some heated images to mind of the man I'd like to be involved with. I suppose that's half of why I like your series so much, Adam reminds me of the man I'm in love with. But for reasons beyond my control, we can't be together. Despite what I want, he's always against it. I guess I'm taking hope that if Adam can finally get it together with Christina… maybe I can get it together with my guy. He's also a cop by the way, imagine the irony of that. Anyhow, I can't wait for more… maybe I'll print part 4 and show it to him. He might be inspired. Again, great job!
NatKnight
Well, she hoped NatKnight's man took some action. At least she sounded hopeful. Cordelia was fast losing hope for Angel.
Guess that meant her fanfiction life would go on with a vengeance. Maybe she should try to get together with NatKnight. They could bond over stubborn men. But, she knew the woman lived in Toronto, and figured she wouldn't be getting up there any time soon. Oh well, that's what email was for.
She sighed, trying to get her mind off Angel as she opened the next message.
"Cordelia:
Hey there, it's me. Just thought I'd drop you a line and see how things are going in LA. Life here in Sunnydale is pretty routine. We're finally getting used to college… and the fact that the demons won't be going anywhere anytime soon.
Buffy's good. She and Riley seem to be getting along well. I think they're good for each other, though don't let Angel read that. I know she misses him sometimes, but I think she'd finally moving on. Hard as it's been, Riley is definitely less of a risk than Angel.
But, I hear you're keeping both Angel and Wesley in line and alive. Giles tells me the visions you get are painful, but they save lives. I admire you for that.
Well, I've got to go, I'm working on a spell to get rid of a rather pesky shape-shifting demon and Buffy and Riley are going to need it fast.
Anyhow, hope all is well and tell the crew hello from the Sunnydale gang.
Talk to you later.
Willow"
Cordelia smiled slightly as she read Willow's message. The two of them had started emailing each other for help on various demon issues and cases and they'd kept in touch over the past year. Willow's messages always made her smile a bit bittersweet as they brought up the past she'd rather forget. But she had to admit, it was nice Willow still included her in the group somewhat. Despite her annoyance at the Buffy references, she had to admit, part of her was glad the slayer was moving on. Even though it seemed Angel never would.
God it was frustrating!
But what else could she do? Doom and gloom boy was about as willing to admit happiness of any kind to his life as he was willing to walk outside in bright daylight. Part of her angrily wanted to confront him with the fact that he'd probably be safe if they made love, after all, it seemed destined only Buffy could bring him true happiness. There were even times she thought sex with Angel would be enough. Her loving him would make up for his lack of a deep love for her. He might love her as a best friend, or want her as a woman, but let's face it, she wasn't the slayer, and there was no risk he'd lose his soul.
The other half of the time that thought depressed her. She wanted his full and total love, wanted to banish Buffy from his mind… or at least place her in a corner at the back of his heart. She knew he was resigned to moving on… and that part of him would always love the slayer, but damn it! Couldn't he see how much his best friend loved him as well?
Cordelia fought back the sudden tears those thoughts brought on, willing herself to get a grip. She sniffed once and then turned back to her email.
Hi Angel's Lover,
Okay, what can I say? "Dark Night" was incredible! And the sex… well, I'm going to try that tomorrow night with my partner… in our office. Late nights can be so fun. Anyhow, I just had to say I've read the entire "Night" series and I'm so into it! Adam and Christina feel like family to me, and the way you've portrayed their relationship, well, it nearly brought me to tears. They've gone through so much, and I'm so glad it was Christina who finally broke through Adam's tough shell. Man, the passion you've ignited… I hope it only gets hotter as the stories continue! And I must thank you as well… Adam and Christina have brought a bit of romance into my life, since my partner, now my lover, enjoys them as well. Just had to say thanks… and write more. Soon!
SarahMacRab
Was everyone in the world destined to get involved with their partners? Were her stories really that powerful?
Cordelia sighed and rubbed her eyes, wondering why other people's lives seemed so great, and hers sucked so badly.
It wasn't like she was that much different from any of them. She worked closely with Angel, he truly was her best friend and partner in all senses of the word. They had unresolved sexual tension in spades… but never did anything about it. Maybe she should make Angel read one of her stories… after all, it seemed to work with her fans.
She shuddered as she thought about what Angel would think if he read one of her Dark Night stories. He'd recognize himself, and her, immediately.
Hell, maybe it would stir something in him.
Right. When hell froze over.
She sighed, feeling depressed, and clicked on the next message.
"WIN 1 MILLION DOLLARS SIMPLY BY REPLYING TO THIS EMAIL!"
She sighed and deleted the message instantly. She always ended up with at least one junk post a day. It was annoying. That done, she moved on to the next message.
Angel's Lover,
What can I say? I was skimming through fanfiction and came across the "Dark Night" series, and I must say, your writing style is very good. You put such emotion into your stories, and the passion sears clear through. I have a feeling you're writing from outside experience. That's what makes a good writer, and I should know since I'm a journalist. My husband and I are both journalists actually, and we've lived through things I'm sure wouldn't believe. Of course, I haven't written them down, I just don't think they'd translate well onto paper… but I so enjoy reading other's visions! And Adam and Christina seem perfect for each other. What's a good relationship without conflict? In the end, it boils down to trust, and if you don't trust the one you love, you've got problems. Trust me, I learned that the hard way. But thank God for my husband's patience. He's unlike any man I've ever known… anywhere in the universe. Okay, I've rambled enough… but I'll end with one other thing. KEEP WRITING! I'm anxiously awaiting the newest adventures of Adam and Christina!
L Kent
Cordelia sighed, smiling as she read the message. L Kent was new, she'd never written before, and it was always nice to find a new fan. Besides, this L Kent claimed to be a journalist, so she must know something about writing.
She and her husband.
Depression settled back over Cordelia as she again realized that while the responses to Dark Night were wonderful… they only served to depress her in other ways. All her fans seemed involved in relationships, similar to, or a lot like hers and Angels.
But with one major difference.
They all HAD relationships.
Something she and Angel never would… unless he decided to unbend, unwind and stop brooding so much.
But… until then, she had no outlet other than her writing. And by God, if she couldn't have Angel in real life, she was damn well going to have him in her fantasy one!
She felt a new determination come over her as she started planning the next chapter of Dark Night. Maybe while writing it she could come up with a way to act on it, and break Angel out of his self imposed denial. It was about time. Something had to be done before she totally lost it and attacked him.
With a sigh, she turned back and clicked on her final email, determined to start writing once she finished reading it.
Her heart suddenly dropped to her stomach as the words appeared on the screen.
Angel's Lover,
You should be more careful about where you store your files on the computer. Or at least what you title them. You never know what thoughts will go through some people's heads when they see a file titled "Cordelia Stories." You never know who might read them. And you never know the effect your words might have on someone reading them. You might never know the effect your words had on me. But I suspect if you look over at the doorway… you might just get some answers to these burning questions.
Cordelia's Soon To Be Lover
She closed her eyes, unwilling to believe the words she'd just read.
Oh God.
He couldn't have read her stories… could he?
It just wasn't possible… was it?
"I suspect if you look over here, you might just get some answers to those burning questions."
Angel's low voice seemed to reverberate through the small room, sending a chill down her spine. Taking a deep breath, feeling the heat of a blush rise to her cheeks, she mustered up her courage and met his gaze.
She lost her breath as she saw the heavy lidded desire shining in his eyes as he stared at her, and saw the rigid outline of his desire pressing tightly against his black jeans.
She couldn't move as he slowly advanced upon her, frozen to the chair as the blush of embarrassment faded, only to be replaced by a flush of arousal as he neared her. She couldn't speak as he finally reached her… and placed both arms on the chair, surrounding her with his presence, blocking her in, his eyes holding hers in a steady gaze.
Cordelia looked back at him, suddenly wondering if she was dreaming. As she saw his head move towards her, she almost believed she was.
The heat of his mouth devouring hers quickly alerted her to the fact that this wasn't a dream.
Maybe Adam and Christina really did have the right idea.
Who cared at this point in time?
She wrapped her arms tightly around his neck, deepening the kiss as he pulled her up and into his arms, holding her tightly against him as his mouth devoured hers.
She smiled as she felt the last of her inhibitions flee as he set her down on the edge of the desk, pulling back just enough to let her take a much needed breath. His voice sent another chill down her spine as he leaned back in to kiss her again.
"Are you ready to truly become Angel's Lover?" he asked hoarsely, letting the desire he was feeling show in his eyes.
Her only answer was to pull him down to her lips and give herself completely to him.
Adam and Christina had nothing on Angel and Cordelia.
But oh how her writing group was going to love the next inspired story in the Dark Night series.
After all, hadn't someone once said that writing what you know… ended up being the best story of all?
***********
The End