0 comments/ 14420 views/ 1 favorites Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 01 By: angel13 Author's Note: I'm taking a break from "What Happens Behind Closed Doors." I'll write new parts as soon as I get the inspiration. 1 Angel McKeon was the last child of the McKeon family to finally settle down. His family felt that at his age, which was, thirty was reasonable enough to start a family of his own. The woman that is his wife, his confidant and lover was the one and only Darla Morgan. Darla Morgan and Angel met in such interesting circumstances, which was their family. Angel's family was the prominent business company of McKeon Industries. McKeon Industries was knows throughout the world, but its primary headquarters was in Los Angeles. Though from time to time Angel would have to travel to Sunnydale or other parts of the US to represent McKeon Industries. Though let's get back to Angel and Darla and how they first met. You'd think that when parents would set up a meeting for their son that he'd be somewhat thrilled. Well that wasn't the case. You'll see what I mean. Angel was sitting in his office looking at the files on his desk when his parents entered the room. The interior of his office was carpeted, leather seating and a metal nameplate that was on his desk. There was a window behind Angel that overviewed the city of Los Angeles. "Hello son," said the older male. Angel lifted his brown eyes to recognize his parents. "Dad, Mom, why are you here?" he asked as he dropped his Mont Blanc pen on his desk. "Can't a mother come and see her son?" Mrs. McKeon asked. "Of course not, Mom," Angel said getting up from his seat and walked over to greet his parents. Angel leaned on his desk with his arms crossed on his chest. He knew that his parents were up to something because they rarely interrupted him at work unless it was important. "Angel, we were thinking that maybe it was time that you settle down and leave your bachelor life." "Really? Why is that? I'd really like to know," Angel said angered. His eyebrows turned into a frown. "Well you're twenty eight and we both feel that you'd be suited with Darla Morgan." "You're kidding right?! She's a bitch, stuck up and spoiled! There's no way I'm getting married to her," Angel said seriously looking straight at his father. "Don't you dare say that about Darla Morgan! You have no right to say that about her. Her family has been great friends with ours for years." "I don't care father. I'm not marrying her. She and I have nothing in common." "Angel, listen to your father. He only wants what's best for you." "Mom, I can't believe you're taking Dad's side on this." "Angel, listen to me. When I first met your father, he and I never really knew each other and look at us now," she said caressing his cheek. He turned his face and leaned into his mother's hand. His mother would always caress his cheek whenever he would get upset. "Mom, I can't marry. I don't love her," he said softly. "Angel, I know that, but there's no other way. You have to. In due time you'll love Darla Morgan and build a family with her. "I just can't." "You're going to marry Darla. End of discussion," said Mr. McKeon. "Fine. You want me to marry Darla Morgan? I'll do it." 'Though that doesn't mean that I have to love the bitch.' "Good. That settles it." That was two years ago. Since then Angel has been married to Darla. Though his marriage to her wasn't what he wanted. She wanted him by her side at all times and wasn't too thrilled about the female employees talking to him. She was getting suspicious and was wondering if Angel was having an affair behind her back. Then again if he did and she would get a bundle in the divorce settlement and her stocks at McKeon Industries would remain hers. Even if she weren't married to Angel anymore, she would remain one of the shareholders of McKeon Industries. ~*~*~*~*~* Buffy Summers a young woman at the age of twenty-five and decided to start her own lingerie business. She figured with the money that she invested would earn her enough money to start a business. It did. Though starting a business wasn't the problem. It was men. Buffy just couldn't find the right guy to satisfy her. Of course when it comes to satisfaction most people would automatically assume that it meant sex. Well it wasn't. The sex was great with the men that she had been with, but that's all it was. Though all the men that she had been with from Parker, Owen to Riley, Riley was the nicest of all. Riley Finn had made her feel special and loved. Though their relationship lasted two years, she couldn't see herself married to him. There was something missing and she couldn't put her finger on it. Faith Evans was a brunette with long hair that reached her shoulders and happened to be Buffy's roommate and best friend. These two girls have known each other since they were three. They have always been inseparable. Faith was the wild one between them, but that doesn't mean if Buffy wanted something that she wouldn't go after it. Buffy liked a challenge and was willing to win her prize. "So B, what are we gonna do tonight? Are we staying in or going out?" "I guess we can head out if you want? "Gee, don't let me force you to go out. I was just trying to cheer you up. You seem a bit down after your break up with Riley." "I am. Though that doesn't matter now. I'm gonna get dressed and we'll head downstairs to the bar. If nothing happens which is likely, then we'll head out to The Bronze." ~*~*~*~*~* It was Friday night and Angel didn't want to spend it cooped up in his hotel room. His best friend Spike insisted that they'd get a couple of drinks. Spike also wanted to find a lady to spend the night with him. "You ready in their Angel?" "Yeah, I'm coming. Let's head downstairs." ~*~*~*~*~* The bar at the Sunnydale Hotel had elegance. As you enter the room the lights were lit, the floor had hard wood paneling of mahogany with a clear polish to protect the surface. The bar had long table with the bartender, alcohol and mirror. There were also little tables with chairs and a still stemmed rose in a vase. Faith and Buffy made their way inside the bar and settled into one of the tables and sat down. "So what do wanna drink?" "I think I'll have a Shirley Temple. Oh, and Faith don't start flirting with any guy up at the bar and keep me hanging." "Me. Never," Faith said laughing. ~*~*~*~*~* Angel was at the bar having his scotch on the rocks with Spike when Faith appeared to order her drink and Buffy's. Spike was looking right at her and noticed how the curves on her body just clung perfectly in all the right spots. Angel glared at him. "Would you quit looking at her as if she's a piece of meat?" "What are you talking about?" "It's okay. I'm use to it. Thanks anyway." "Your welcome." ~*~*~*~*~* Buffy was just staring at her surroundings and wondered what took Faith so long. She then looked up and noticed what was distracting her. She apparently caught the attention of two men. 'It figured. She goes off and finds two guys after her.' Then Buffy noticed the dark haired gentleman turned to look at Faith and noticed his profile. He had a nice smile and could tell that he was tall. She loved tall men. Faith made her way back to Buffy with their drinks. "I can see that you made two new friends." "Oh, those guys over there. The blond is more to my liking. Though the other guy looked like someone you'd hook up with." "I guess." Though while Buffy said those words she was staring at the dark haired man. "You know what, I'll leave you alone so you can catch Mr. Good Looking." "Yeah, sure." ~*~*~*~*~* Angel was still drinking his scotch when Faith approached him and Spike. She made her way straight to Spike. "Hey. I was wondering if you'd like some company?" "Sure thing. Let's go love." "Oh, by the way I think my friend over there likes you," Faith told Angel pointing towards a blonde dressed in a red dress. Angel just smiled. He then looked at the blonde beauty from a far and was transfixed by her already. 'I can't be starring at her. I'm married. Married to a bitch. But still I'm attracted to her.' 'I can't believe he's looking at me. Oh, he's too good to be true. It'll be my luck that he'll be married.' Buffy decided to lift her glass and saluted Angel. Angel did the same In return with a smile. He then made his way over to her table. Buffy couldn't believe it. 'He's coming over here. Wait! Check his hand. Damnit, he's married. My luck.' 'What am I doing? She'll know I'm married and probably think I'm some twisted man.' "Hi. Can I sit here with you?" he asked with a smile. "Sure," she answered with a silly smile on her face. 'Are you out of your mind?! He's married! But he looks so good looking. Oh, just shut up and enjoy the moment. It ain't going to last anyway.' "So what's your name?" Angel asked for the third time. "Oh, I'm sorry. Buffy. Buffy Summers. And you?" "Angel. Angel McKeon. So what's a beautiful lady like yourself doing here all lone?" "I wasn't alone. My friend left with yours. Besides what's a married man like you doing here with me?" Buffy then took the cherry out of her drink, sticking out her pink tongue licking the cherry and placing it in her mouth eating it leaving the stem on the table. All the while Angel's brown eyes just couldn't remove itself from Buffy's lips or rather her tongue. All different kinds of thoughts went rummaging into his mind. As his brown eyes moved up to meet her green ones. Buffy just smiled and knew that she got him. "I'm here on business actually. I just decided to have a drink so I came down." "Oh." Buffy just couldn't stop staring at Angel. He looked so handsome in his tailored suit. Black was definitely his color. Black suit, matching tie lightly loosened with the top button undone with a nice shirt. Though his voice which was deep enough, spiked hair and brown eyes just made her more attracted to him. Angel just didn't want to mention Darla while he was in the presence of a beautiful woman. Even if he knew that nothing could ever come of this, but at least he's sleep well tonight. 'Those eyes. Those gorgeous green eyes and that beautiful smile. It's just too bad.' The both of them continued talking for the rest of the night until Buffy spoke up. "I better get going. It was nice meeting you Angel." She then held out her hand and he took it in his and kissed it. "The pleasure was all mine," he said with a smirk. As he released her hand Buffy had felt a shiver run down her spine just by the simple gesture. As she stood up she passed by Angel and whispered into his ear. "Your wife is lucky to have you," she said huskily. Her hot breath saying those words into his ear just brought a chill down his spine. Buffy walked away slowly letting Angel 's eyes following her legs and the sway of her hips. She hypnotized him. She turned around and caught him staring at her and smiled. "What am I doing? I must be crazy." Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 01 Special thanks go to Kanga40 and Writingdragon for their editing efforts on this one. "All settled in?" Luke blinked himself out of the daze he was in and placed the framed wedding photo back on the table in the hallway. He turned toward his beautiful wife and forced a smile as he shrugged and answered, "As settled in as I'm gonna get, probably." Her happy smile dimmed, and he realized that probably hadn't been the most diplomatic thing to say in the circumstances, at least not with the tone he'd used saying it. Damn, but this was odd. Shifting uncomfortably, he added, "I'm sorry. It's just a little strange." He glanced around and told her, "You have a lovely home. Very warm and welcoming." "I'm glad you like it," his wife said, obviously now forcing a smile of her own. She awkwardly slid her hands into the back pocket of her jeans, which only caused her full breasts to press against the fabric of her t-shirt and give his attention a new focus. Luke swallowed and tried to meet her eyes instead of her chest. He didn't know what it was about this woman, but ever since he'd met her, he'd been almost constantly hard, imagining all sorts of dirty and wicked things about that body of hers. Then again, he was human, and she was...well, stacked. He backtracked and almost laughed at that thought, "ever since he'd met her." By his way of thinking, he'd only met her a month or so ago. Luke remembered that much all too well, unfortunately. Waking up in the hospital. Not knowing where the hell he was, or why. Then realizing he couldn't even remember who he was, or that the woman, this woman, sitting vigil at his bedside was his wife of ten years. The doctors had said he had traumatic amnesia, a result of an accident on the construction site where he had worked the past two months. Even though he could remember basic knowledge, like how to walk and talk, he couldn't remember the specifics about who he was. His driver's license had said he was Luke Johnston, 35, of Atlanta, Georgia, and since the picture matched his face, he had to believe it was true. He'd spent long enough in the hospital talking to psychotherapists and being given one test after another. It hadn't helped him remember a damn thing. They'd stuck him in a convalescent home after that, long enough for his body to heal while he came to terms with the idea his mind might never do the same. He'd been glad to get out of there, even if he still had no memory of the woman who'd been holding his hand when he first woke up, the same woman who had visited him everyday without fail, the same woman who always smiled at him as if he were the only man in her universe. Sarah. His wife's name was Sarah. He had to keep reminding himself of that. Now, he cleared his throat and tried to make polite conversation. No reason for them both to be uncomfortable. "How long have you, er, have we lived here?" "About three years," Sarah said. "We bought the house when I found out I—" she stopped herself short, then explained, "Well, when I accepted a job at a nearby school, and it was more convenient." "I'm surprised. Everything in the guest room looks brand new," he observed. Sarah smiled wryly and brushed some of her long, dark hair out of her face as she admitted, "I went out last night and bought new sheets and towels. I bought you all new shampoo, toothpaste and deodorant too. All the essentials. I thought it would make you feel more comfortable, rather than use your old stuff." "You're right, it does," he smiled. "Thank you for being so thoughtful." She actually turned a little red under the praise, and he suddenly had so many questions he wanted to ask Sarah. How did they meet? How did he propose? Why didn't they have kids? She hadn't offered many details about their marriage, he supposed at the urging of his doctor, who had said he shouldn't try to force his memory to return. And he hadn't had the guts to ask her yet. "Um, I think I'll go get dinner ready. Feel free to explore the house," Sarah told him as she slowly moved down the hall toward the kitchen she'd shown him when she'd first brought him home, what?, two hours ago now. "If you need anything, just yell." She didn't take her eyes off him until she had to round the corner, and he sensed that she didn't want to let him out of her sight even then. As if she were amazed he was even here. Still, he watched her too, wondering if he should offer to help or do as she said and explore. He wouldn't mind spending more time with Sarah; hell, he wouldn't mind the opportunity just to stare at her for a while. Even if his head didn't recognize her, his body seemed to know her pretty damn well, or want to know her, at least. Even his doctor had commented on the chemistry between them. "You two can't keep your eyes off each other," the good doc had told Luke with a twinkle in his elderly eyes. "Sarah obviously adores you, and if I had a woman like that to go home to ... well, it can't be all that bad, surely?" They'd obviously been very happy together. This house and the various photo albums she'd brought to his hospital room testified to that. The photos showed a very affectionate couple, always hugging and touching and smiling. So many times at the hospital or the home, Sarah would be talking to him and lay her hand on his leg as if it were habit, only to pull back when he seemed uncomfortable with the gesture. Then she would gaze at one of the old pictures of him with such longing it nearly broke his heart. Other times, the times he felt most comfortable around her, Luke had to admit, she seemed to be keeping herself at a distance from him, acting very formal and aloof. He supposed she must be as wary of him in his current state as he was of her. Poor woman. They'd both gotten a raw deal. Running a hand over the stubble at his chin, he turned and decided to get familiar with his surroundings. The doctor had actually been pretty vague on when his memory would come back. The old geezer had just evasively kept repeating, "Time will tell." Luke figured anything could jog his memory at any time if the movies were to be believed, and he did seem to remember small, insignificant things everyday. However, he was aware there was a possibility he might not ever remember the important details that told him who he was. It was such a strange thing, really. He couldn't remember his childhood, any of his friends or family, or any of those experiences that taught people how to be who they eventually became. He could walk and talk, read and write, and although he hadn't yet driven, he was pretty sure he knew how to do that too. He'd watched enough television these past couple of weeks in the hospital to realize he knew the answers to half the questions on Jeopardy and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. But no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't remember going to school to learn those things. He didn't know if he was more scared or frustrated by that fact. As he entered the main bedroom, he passed a mirror and paused to study his reflection. He'd studied it a lot in the past week or so, trying to come to terms with the fact that he couldn't really recognize his own face either. The face staring back at him could be considered handsome, he supposed. Not movie-star handsome, but not bad. He figured a babe like Sarah could have done much better for a match, but he wasn't going to start analyzing her taste now. His sandy-colored hair was much longer than it was in all of the pictures he'd seen of himself, which was funny because they'd told him they'd had to cut it at the hospital. Maybe they had just meant the part they'd shaved so he could get stitches because, for the most part, it was so long now it almost brushed the collar of his shirt. All of the pictures he'd seen of himself showed a short, close-cropped cut, very business-like and professional. Personally he liked this length better, but he would have to see about getting it cut so the shaved part didn't stand out so much. He also noticed that his face was a lot tanner now than in any of the pictures, and suited him better than the pale, office-confined look. That made sense since he apparently had worked in construction. They'd told him he'd been in an accident at work. They'd been digging a tunnel beneath a road when the area around him and another man had collapsed. He had pushed his co-worker to safety but had been trapped beneath the rubble. It had taken hours to safely remove him from the debris, and they hadn't expected him to be alive when they had finally gotten to him. He didn't remember a thing about it, but he was comforted to know he had been a decent enough man to save his co-worker, even if it had cost him dearly. He glanced around the room, taking in all of the smallest details. Pictures, books, clothes all neatly put in there place. He wondered if Sarah was a neat freak, or if she had just tidied up for his homecoming. She must have moved all of his stuff into the spare room last night, because he only saw her stuff in here. He opened a few drawers just as a test, and because he was curious at what he'd find. There were some men's clothes in his size, but oddly enough, it all looked brand new, and what didn't smelt sort of funny...musty. He sighed, a little disappointed still not to recognize anything. The adjoining bathroom was the same. He didn't see much of anything at all that belonged to a man in there. Hell, he didn't even see any condoms or proof of birth control pills in the medicine cabinet. What did they do? Practice the rhythm method? Maybe they didn't have to worry about it. Maybe they couldn't have kids. Maybe they kept those things in a drawer beside the bed. "Um, Luke? I forgot to ask..." He jumped at the sudden sound of Sarah's voice. He pushed the cabinet closed and turned to find her watching him from the doorway. "I was going to make steaks because it's always been your favorite, but maybe you'd prefer something else?" she continued. "Steaks sound fine," he told her, feeling awkward, as if he'd been caught invading a stranger's personal space. "I like mine well done, please." Too late he realized she must know that already, and then marveled at another trivial detail that had come easily to his mind. She smiled – one of those formal smiles again – and left, and he breathed a sigh of relief that she hadn't taken offense that he'd been snooping. Then again, why should she? He was her husband. He laughed a little at the thought and fingered the unfamiliar gold band on his finger. To be someone's husband, he sure felt awfully...unattached. When the doctor had first explained that Sarah was his wife, he'd denied it, told them they must have him confused with someone else. He hadn't felt a damn thing when he looked at her outside of what any red-blooded, healthy young male would feel. To him, she was nothing more than a beautiful stranger he'd met several weeks ago. Yet even when Sarah was acting wary of him, he could see that she had strong feelings for him. That made this situation all the more awkward for him. What did she expect or want from him? What if he never regained his memory? Troubled by his thoughts, he explored the rest of the house and found several areas in need of repair. There was some faulty wiring in the basement where the washer and dryer were, part of the porch was all but rotted through, and the ceiling of the living room had stains as if the roof had leaked recently. Funny how he easily spotted the flaws and knew instantly what it would take to fix them. He couldn't help but wondering why, if he had worked in construction, the problems hadn't been fixed already. He found one room that was locked, and although that piqued his curiosity, he figured it wasn't any of his business to ask Sarah for a key so he could see inside. It was probably just an old storage closet anyway – that part of the house wasn't shaped to include another room of any size. When he made his way back to the kitchen, Sarah was cutting vegetables to go with their meal. As he got closer he could hear that she was actually crying softly. Oh hell. "Are you OK?" he asked automatically, startling her. Lifting her sad face, she stared at him pitifully for a second before trying to regain her composure. He felt terrible. Sarah had been nothing but kind to him. But this had to be hard for her, maybe even harder than it was for him if she really loved him as much as she seemed to. "I just—" she wiped away a few tears and tried to smile. "I almost lost you forever. I wasn't sure I'd ever have you this close to me again." Then the tears began again, and he reacted on instinct, gathering her in his arms for comfort. She grabbed hold of him as if she were afraid to let go as she sobbed quietly against his shoulder. "I love you, Luke. Please don't ever leave me. I know you can't remember me now, but please give me a chance. I can make you love me again, I know I can. We can start fresh. That's better anyway, right?" "Hey, I'm not going anywhere," he assured her, although he wasn't sure it was a promise he could keep. If he couldn't regain his memories, he feared there wouldn't be much hope for their marriage. Maybe he would come to love her as much as his former self had, but then again, maybe he wouldn't. The future was as uncertain to him as his past was. After a few minutes, she calmed down and pulled away. "I'm sorry. This can't be easy for you. Just forget what I said. No pressure." He smiled a little at that and allowed her to pull herself together without comment. He was almost sorry to let her go. Sarah had felt good in his arms, as if some of the void had been filled by her presence. He shook himself of the odd thought. Somehow they managed to get dinner ready, and Luke was careful not to ask any sensitive questions as he probed for details about her. She was acting wary again, answering his questions as if she were doing a proper interview. In any case, he learned that she had been a brand new kindergarten teacher when they'd first met, but she now taught fifth grade at a local elementary school, which explained why she hadn't had to call in to work anymore – it was now the beginning of June. He learned that they'd met when she had rear-ended him one day while rushing to a doctor's appointment, and she had been near-to-tears, expecting the worst when he got out of his car to confront her. "But you always said you took one look at me and that was it -- love at first sight," Sarah explained shyly, smiling to herself at the memory. "You leaned down into my window, and I was expecting you to start yelling. Instead you just smiled real big and asked if I had dinner plans." "And you agreed to go out with me, just like that?" "Of course!" she feigned disbelief that he would imagine otherwise. "I was terrified if I didn't, you would fake whiplash and my insurance rates would go sky high!" At his disbelieving look, Sarah smiled and admitted, "OK, I said 'no' and we traded insurance information. But then you sent all these beautiful flowers to me a few days later with this sweet note saying you hoped I was OK and that my nerves had recovered. The next day, you called and asked me out again, and you were so charming how could I resist?" He laughed, felt himself flattered by the comment none-the-less, and asked, "So was I working in construction when we met?" Luke thought he saw her stiffen as if he'd said something wrong, but then again he didn't know her well enough to be able to judge her reaction for certain. He figured he must have been wrong when she sent him a direct look and shook her head. "No, back then, you were a lawyer. Even more reason for me to go out with you," she tried to joke. A lawyer! "How—I mean, why was I working in construction if I was a lawyer? Did I get disbarred or something? What kind of lawyer was I?" Sarah hesitated, then explained, "You started as a corporate lawyer in your father's firm. You worked with a lot of big businesses and made a lot of money, but you always said you wished you were doing something that really helped people. A friend invited you to join his firm, and from that point on, you handled mostly civil cases." A lawyer. He didn't feel like a lawyer. He even felt a sort of strange, instinctive hatred of them. And his dad...his dad had been a lawyer too. Wow. Sarah must have seen the look that passed across his face because she added, "A few years ago you got fed up with the lifestyle and bitterness of it all. We—" Again, she hesitated. "Well, you and I were having some problems too. You decided it best to make some changes in your life, and that included your career. Honestly, I'm not sure why you chose to go into construction. You always had lots of interests and could do anything you set your mind to. ... Would you like some dessert or coffee?" Luke had a million questions he wanted to ask about this exciting revelation, but it was obvious she was uncomfortable with the direction this conversation had taken, so he pretended he would love some dessert and coffee and sat quietly while she retrieved it. They sat and talked about simple things, such as his family history and hobbies, for another hour. His parents were both dead; he had no brothers or sisters, only a couple of aunts, uncles and cousins he barely kept in touch with. Apparently he had grown up pretty well off, not super rich, but living in a large house and never wanting for anything. He'd also played baseball with a group of friends every Saturday until a few years ago when he had to have to knee surgery. How odd it was to hear such things about himself. Out of politeness more than anything, Luke also asked a few questions about Sarah's past. He wondered about her own family, and she explained that her parents were still living, but she had been an only and unexpected child late in their years. "We were never really all that close — maybe too much of a generation gap. Even then, I don't think they really wanted a child, and certainly not a girl," she said, sipping her coffee. "Now they live in Arizona. I get a card from them every now and then — birthdays, Christmas — but that's about the extent of their interest in me. Well, I suppose these past few years, we have grown a bit closer, but it's hard for me to trust it, you know?" He heard the hurt in her voice, although she tried to sound nonchalant about it. He figured her childhood must have been pretty lonely, and thought out loud, "So basically we just had each other." Sarah nodded, a bit somberly Luke thought, and added, "I hope we still do. No matter what, I'll always be there for you, Luke. Even if you can't remember...anything. I would like to still be your friend." Finally he admitted, "I appreciate all you've done for me, Sarah, but I really am exhausted. I think I'm going to call it a night, if you don't mind." But he wasn't as tired as he'd thought. Luke tossed and turned for a while before getting out of bed, feeling edgy and restless. He took a quick shower and watched a little television but quickly became bored with it. Even though his body was still tired and a bit bruised, his mind couldn't stop puzzling over his predicament. He just felt so lost, so alone. Turning the television off, he decided to see if Sarah would like to talk some more, if she hadn't gone to bed yet. This time he wanted to know more about her, her life and her hobbies. He quietly opened his door in case she had gone to sleep already and crept down the hallway to her bedroom. As he grew closer, he could tell that she was talking to someone on the phone. "....I know, baby, but it's only for the summer. I promise we'll be together again soon, can you understand that?" Sarah paused, and Luke imagined she was listening to the person on the other end. Then, she said emotionally, "Of course I love you. I love you so much, baby. Just trust me, OK?" Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 01 What the--?! If Luke had been confused before, he was even more so now. Was Sarah cheating on him? Who was she talking to? What--? He willed himself to relax. Maybe she was talking to her mother? Hell. Not likely. Then he heard her laugh sexily and say, "Don't be silly, Jack." Another man? Granted, Luke didn't feel any strong emotional ties to the woman yet. But Sarah was still his wife, and by all accounts, she seemed to love him. He felt an unfamiliar pang of betrayal as he tried to listen to more of the conversation to be certain of his suspicion. Her voice faded as if she had walked into the bathroom, and he couldn't make out anything else. She padded back into the room, and judging by the silence followed by the light turning off under the door, the phone call had been ended. He considered confronting her with what he'd heard but reminded himself he didn't know all the facts. If only he could remember what their marriage had been like... Troubled Luke retreated to his room and spent much of the night tossing and turning, and thinking. Around 3 a.m., he glanced at the clock beside his bed and groaned. He doubted he'd get any rest at all with the ideas troubling his mind. Maybe he should insist on going to a hotel tomorrow. Maybe he should ask her straight out who Jack was. Maybe it was none of his business, he decided. Maybe he should just leave now. He'd avoided taking any of the painkillers the doctor had prescribed but reached for them now. They'd put him straight to sleep, with any luck. He was thinking of turning the TV on for company when he heard soft footsteps in the hallway. He held his breath, wondering if Sarah would hear him if he got out of bed to investigate what she was doing. He didn't have to. His eyes were well adjusted to the darkness of the room, and he saw the door slowly open to frame his gorgeous wife in the doorway. Sarah stood there in a diaphanous gown, her feet bare, and her caramel hair hanging loose around her shoulders. Every male cell in his body instantly snapped to happy attention. She just stood there for a few seconds, seemingly staring at him before she finally whispered, "Luke?" He propped himself up on his elbows. "Everything OK?" "Oh yes. Sorry. I—" she glanced back down the hallway toward her bedroom and said quietly, "I couldn't sleep." Sarah stepped further into the room, and Luke saw that she was wearing a nightgown that glowed in the moonlight and outlined her gentle curves beneath. She really was a beautiful woman, he thought as she stepped closer to the bed, giving him a better view. She hesitated, glancing down at him and then glancing toward the chair sitting next to the bed. With a half smile, she moved to the chair, curling her bare legs beneath her as she got comfortable. "Do you mind if I sleep here the rest of the night?" she asked, sounding vulnerable all of a sudden. "I promise not to disturb you." "What, in the chair?" "Yes," she whispered, settling in, using the arm of the chair as a pillow. Her lips curved in a slight smile and he couldn't tell for sure, but it seemed as if her eyes were exploring the parts of his body bared from the covers. "Good night," she whispered. "You need your rest." Raking back the unruly hair in his eyes, Luke sighed and said, a bit frustrated, "You can't sleep there. It looks damned uncomfortable." "I'm OK." Without thinking, he offered, "This bed is big enough for two." Sarah perked up. "You wouldn't mind? Just for tonight?" Seeing he'd backed himself into a corner, Luke simply lifted the covers and shifted more to one side, giving her room to slide in if she chose to. With only a little hesitation, Sarah accepted the offer, slipping in beside him. Cautiously, she curled up next to him, and when he didn't protest, she slid one arm across his chest and pillowed her head in the curve of his shoulder. Weren't these the actions of a loving wife? Would she be acting this way if she were cheating on him? He didn't think so, but ... god, he didn't know much of anything right now. He couldn't trust his memories. Could he trust his instincts, or had they been damaged as badly as his mind? Luke wasn't sure what the protocol was for a situation like this but willed his body to relax instead of reacting. He felt the soft, smooth and unfamiliar slide of Sarah's leg pressed against his, and the feel of the material of her nightgown as it slid between them was almost unbearably erotic. She lay perfectly still, and he wondered if she had actually managed to fall asleep so fast. How long he lay there, stiff like a board, he couldn't say. He could already feel his body relaxing, thanks to the effects of the drugs he'd taken. But the arm she was using as a pillow began to fall asleep, so he stretched it and found himself curving it around her shoulder to get the blood flow going again. As if she'd only been waiting for some hint of an invitation, Sarah's lips began moving against his skin, and then she maneuvered the arm she'd thrown across his chest so that her fingers could caress the area around his nipple. Slowly, those fingers started on a leisurely trail down toward his stomach, touching him, exploring his body. Luke laid there, not certain if she was dreaming and acting it out or actually making a play for him. Had talking to the other man made her horny or what? Should he take advantage? Swallowing, he shifted beneath her. He just didn't think he was the type to take advantage, unfortunately. "Sarah?" he whispered, trying to wake her if she was asleep. Her hand stopped just an inch above his cock, which was already aroused and standing at attention beneath his boxers thanks to her mere proximity. He felt her sigh, and then she repositioned herself so that one of her legs was thrown over his, almost high enough to brush his cock, and she snuggled into him contentedly. "G'night, Luke," she said sleepily, and he felt her body relax again. A few seconds later, she was snoring softly. Not long after, Luke was doing the same. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 02 2 Angel was restless throughout the night. He just couldn't sleep because every time he shut his eyes a pair of green ones would appear. Those beautiful green eyes and her blonde silky hair and those lips that he just wanted to kiss so badly. 'I have to stop thinking about her. I just have to.' The phone rang and brought him out his reverie. "Hello." "Hello my Angel. Did you miss me?" "Darla, why am I not surprised? Why the phone calls? You think I'm cheating on you?" "I called my husband to see if he missed me. Oh, and you would never cheat on me. I'm the best thing that happened to you." "You're so sure of yourself. Look I have to get going. I'll see you tomorrow." Angel hung up the phone before Darla answered him. ~*~*~*~*~* Buffy just had a smile on her face. She wasn't really a morning person. Though this morning things were different. It all started with last night when she talked with Angel McKeon. For some reason Angel's last name ringed a bell in her head. "Faith! Faith! I have a question to ask you," Buffy said opening the door and quickly noticed that she wasn't alone. "Okay. I'm so sorry. I'll leave." 'Wait a minute! That's Angel's friend. She met the guy the same night and already slept with him.' ~*~*~*~*~* Faith was up even if she didn't want to thanks to Buffy. Spike got into his clothes as Faith quickly found a robe and wore it. They both stepped out with Buffy sitting on the couch. "Hello." "Hi! I'm sorry about that." "It's okay B. I'm gonna let Spike go and I'll be with you." Faith walked Spike to the door. "I guess I'll see you around." "Sure." Spike then kissed her. Faith closed the door and walked towards Buffy. "Well you sure had a good time. It seemed like Spike spent the night." "Yeah. We had fun. Though you and his friend must have hit it off." "Angel and I only talked for the rest of the night. Besides even if I waned him, I couldn't get him." "Why not? He's tall, dark and handsome. He's your type." "True. Though the big factor is that he's married." "So what! I can tell you're attracted to him. Just go for it. Make it a night that he won't forget." Buffy laughed. ~*~*~*~*~* Then evening was approaching and the ladies were getting ready for dinner. Faith made plans with Spike, which left Buffy all alone again. Though Buffy being alone might have an advantage. She might bump into Angel and have dinner with him. Buffy slipped in her underwear, which consisted have a black bra and matching panties. She then added her vanilla scented lotion on her legs and gently rubbing the cream and massaging her legs. Then she slipped in her high thigh black nylon stockings and slipped her dress, which landed, right on her knee. Buffy fixed her hair and let it flow onto her shoulders and slipped on her black heels. Then finally she quickly added some natural lipstick and lightly dabbed some vanilla perfume on her pulse points, the sides of her neck. Buffy looked at herself once more and headed out the door. ~*~*~*~*~* Angel was downstairs and was about to enter the restaurant when his blonde beauty from last night appeared before his very eyes. He was gazing at her from head to toe. Her blonde hair was flowing from her petite frame in that black dress that just accentuated every curve on her body and finally her legs, which ere hidden underneath those black nylon stockings. He just couldn't get his eyes off her body. His brown eyes looked right into her green ones and she smiled. Buffy just couldn't believe that Angel was there and checking her out. She had done the same as his eyes inspected her body. She made her way towards him. "Hi there. It's nice seeing you again," she said flashing him a smile. "I was about to have dinner. Would you care to join me?" "I'd love to." ~*~*~*~*~* Both Buffy and Angel were sitting across one another. They had ordered their meal and the wine. He had a sirloin steak, while she had sautéed shrimp. As they both ate from time to time their eyes would meet and they smiled. "So do you have a boyfriend?" Buffy laughed at his question. "Well that isn't any of your business. Besides I don't think that your wife would be thrilled you asking me a question like that," she said smiling. "Well she isn't here is she," he answered back smiling. He just couldn't believe the way he was acting. He would never proposition a woman like that, but then again Buffy wasn't like any woman he ever met. Buffy loved his response. She had him right where she wanted him. She picked up the shrimp and did the same act with the cherry last night. Angel just looked at every single step that she made. She slipped off her right shoe and made her way to his pant leg letting her foot hiking it up. Angel looked at her and started feeling her foot causing a shiver in him. "I just can't believe that she's coming on to me and I'm not stopping her.' Buffy continued her task, but removed her foot and started to find another spot. "So what do you want?" Buffy asked with her foot lightly touching his crotch. Angel just couldn't find the strength to remove her foot. He felt himself getting harder at her touch. "You," he said huskily. He couldn't believe himself. 'I'm a married man. Oh, stop being ridiculous. I haven't felt this excited and turned on in quite a while. Just look at her. She wants you. It's just one night.' ~*~*~*~*~* They both quickly made it to his room in no time. By the time that Angel closed the door he pulled Buffy up to him and kissed her fiercely. It definitely wasn't one of those passionate kisses you heard about when reading a romance novel. These were the kind of kisses that were made from pure lust, desire and need. He needed her. He craved her. His tongue parted her lips feeling her tongue with is own as he slammed her against the door. "Ow." "I'm sorry," Angel said apologetically." "It's okay." He went back to kissing her as his right hand traveled up her left leg caressing it until he reached her firm behind and cupped it in his hand. His lips made its way to her neck as his to her hand leaned on the door for support. Buffy's fingers threaded through his hair as her moaning increased even more. As for Buffy's other hand found it's want to Angel's belt unbuckling in one swift movement, then went for the button and finally the zipper which then caused his pants to fall on his ankles. Angel's hand left it's place on her thigh and found it's place in her panties and parted then towards the side. At the same moment Buffy snaked her fingers inside the opening of his boxers and retrieved his throbbing erection. Angel groaned at the contact of Buffy touching him. She wrapped both legs around his waist and slid herself inside of him. As she made the initial contact with him her green eyes looked right into his brown ones and just felt every cell in her body reacting. "More," she moaned. "Faster," she moaned breathlessly. He sped up even faster because he just knew that he had to keep on going because feeling her heat wrapped up inside of him was driving him to the brink. He went back to kissing her again and kept on thrusting. Their moans, groping increased rapidly until they finally reached their climax. "Oh," Buffy moaned out loud. Her breathing went down and she looked right at Angel and smiled. ~*~*~*~*~* The two new lovers slept on the carpet floor of the Sunnydale Hotel because they never had a chance to make it to the bed. Angel had his arms around Buffy as her head laid on his bare chest and her arm wrapped around his waist. Her blonde hair was messed up and had dried remain of sweat from a night of amazing sex. Angel just woken up and couldn't believe what he done last night. He had incredible sex with Buffy. The best part was not that they did it once, but twice for the night. The second time was even better because he got to see Buffy completely naked. His hands touching the curves on her hips, her breasts and kissing those lips just made him feel. He looked down at her and noticed how innocent she looked. Though her actions made her a vixen. "Buffy." "Hmm?" Buffy then opened her eyes and looked straight into the brown ones that were with her last night. She loved the comfort of his arms holding her closely. She didn't want to leave the closeness of this man. Though it's too bad they nothing more could come out of this. "It's morning," he said removing a strand of her blonde hair. "Already? I thought it was still night." "Nope. Buffy about last night." "Yeah?" "It was amazing. You were amazing," he said grinning. "You weren't half bad yourself," he said and then kissed his chest. She then slid her body on top of his so her breasts were touching his chest and lightly kissing his neck. His hands went to her back roaming all over feeling how smooth and delicate her skin felt underneath his fingertips. "Buffy, we should head to the bed," she said breathlessly. "Why you're not enjoying yourself right here," she said as she rubbed her body against his. "Hmm. You shouldn't have done that," he said with a smirk. "Oh yeah. Why is that?" " 'Cause I'll do this." He rolled over so that he was on top, then stood up, picked her up in arms and laid her on the bed. He straddled her between her hips and looked right into those green eyes and couldn't care less about Darla or their marriage. "So what do you plan to do to me Mr. McKeon?" Angel made believe that he had no clue of what to say to her. "Well Miss Summer it'll come to me," he said grinning wickedly. He then proceeded to kiss her. ~*~*~*~*~* They both woke up later not wanting to leave each other's arms like earlier, but all good things had to come to an ed. Angel and Buffy both got dressed, but before Buffy left to her room Angel had to say something to her. "Buffy?" "Yes." 'Am I doing the right thing about asking her out again? Or is this just a case of sex driven hormones? There's only one way to know.' "I want to see you again." 'There I said it.' "You do huh? I doubt that could be possible." 'Are you out of your mind, girl? He wants you just as much as you want him.' Angel walked towards her and wrapped his arms around her waist. He knew what he was putting himself into, but didn't care about the consequences. "I mean after all you're married and this is a one time thing," she said softly. She couldn't believe the rational part of her mind was taking over. "I know that. But I don't care. I still want you. Unless you…" Buffy's lips on top of his cut off his last words that were asking her if she still wanted him as well. "I want you too," she said smiling. He was thrilled that she felt that way. "So I'll see you this weekend?" "I guess." He walked her to the door and gave her a lingering kiss before she headed out the door. As Angel closed the door behind him they both said. "What am I getting myself into?!" Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 02 The next few days would have been heaven for Sarah if she didn't sense that Luke was distracted and holding himself back from trusting her. Had he remembered something? Had she slipped up and revealed too much, made him suspicious? No, she didn't think so. God, she hoped not, anyway. She stood a chance with her husband as long as he didn't remember what they'd gone through those last eight months together. All she needed was a little bit of time to prove to him that she loved him more than anything, or anyone, and that she was committed to being the kind of wife he deserved. She had prayed for a miracle, for God to give her a second chance with Luke, so many times that she was almost able to convince herself she wasn't being manipulative with the situation now. But she had finally given up hope, was actually trying to move on with her life, when the Atlanta hospital had called and told her that Luke had been brought in, that he was in serious condition in the ER. Sarah had almost died of heartbreak fearing he could die from his injuries before she got there. She hadn't seen nor heard from him in so long, even though she'd tried to find Luke after he had walked on her. God, how she'd tried. She hadn't questioned how they'd gotten her number, she'd simply grabbed her coat and keys and raced the nearly fifty miles to Atlanta to be with him. She'd expected Luke to wake up and demand that she be thrown out, and she had been prepared to leave without a fight as long as she knew he was OK. Instead, when he'd woken up and looked at her, then asked who she was, she had been too shocked to even react. As Sarah had waited for the doctor to confirm his memory loss, she had considered every option from explaining the truth to Luke right away to staying quiet and seeing where things led. Initially she'd decided to tell him the truth. She'd had to accept long ago that Luke didn't want to be found by her and she owed it to him to set him free. She'd been getting along just fine, rebuilding her life, starting over… Then the doctor had told her that Luke's body was so badly damaged, it would take a strong mind to endure the coming weeks of treatment and physical therapy. There was some swelling on his brain, he had some bruised ribs, a punctured lung, a fractured arm; his body needed to focus on healing right now. The gentle older man had stressed to Sarah how important it would be for her to support Luke and not to bring up memories that could cause her husband any great stress. It was as if she were suddenly being given permission to do what she secretly wanted the most – not to have to remind Luke of their past together. Besides, how could she pass up any chance to again spend time with the man she had loved and lost, even if it were for only a few short days? Sarah had fully expected Luke to regain his memories before she'd brought him home, but he hadn't. She'd been on pins and needles every day since, waiting for that moment to arrive. It hadn't. And now … if he never regained his memory – would it be so awful? At least they could start over without any emotional baggage to drag them down. It could work, she'd reasoned in desperation. Being a teacher, she had the summer off, although she usually worked part-time at a retail store to help make ends meet. Sarah had figured her budget so she would be able to not work at all, giving her the time she would need to learn if Luke was still the same man she had loved and time to make him fall in love with her again if he was. Plus, Luke didn't have any close family remaining, no one who knew the details to spill the beans about the breakup of their marriage. When Luke had left her, Sarah had moved from their home in Atlanta to a small town near the South Carolina-Georgia border to get away from their so-called friends, those people who had taken such devilish delight in the breakup of "the golden couple" and whom she suspected had a hand in the events leading up to that breakup. She took full responsibility for her own actions as she was sure Luke would, but she also knew they would have worked things out on their own if it hadn't been for the interference of others. The point was, no one really knew them here. Sarah still wore her ring and told anyone who asked that yes, she was married but she was going through a bit of a trial separation. If the divorce papers had ever arrived, she would have signed them, but they hadn't. Neither had she been motivated to have the papers served on Luke. She herself didn't have any close friends, no one who would question Luke's sudden re-appearance in her life. The only person who knew even part of the truth was her 80-year-old neighbor, Edna Nash, a sort of surrogate mother to Sarah, and she had agreed to go along with whatever Sarah chose, although she had advised solemnly, "It was lies and dishonesty that drove your husband away before. You told me once that if Luke were to come back to you, you'd be nothing but honest with him in the future…" Then there was Jack, of course, but he had seemed to understand and had been easily taken care of for now. Jack was the only possible hiccup in her whole plan. Sarah had vowed to be totally honest and tell Luke all about Jack – after all, how could she not? But she needed to gain Luke's love and trust again before she introduced him to the other man in her life. Oh yes, Jack could prove to be a problem. She would have to stay away from anyone who would wonder why Jack wasn't with her anymore and who might question Luke about him. Then Sarah would have to pray for Luke to forgive her when he did find out about Jack. Surely he would understand, she reasoned. She had been so lonely. Jack had helped her survive without Luke. She could never regret him. Thinking of Jack made her question whether Luke had moved on and found someone else to love. Sarah knew she and Luke were still legally married, but three years was a long time. He could be living with another woman, maybe even have a child by now. She hoped not. If Luke's memory never returned, any other woman would be lost to him anyway, she reasoned. Besides, he was still her husband. She also couldn't imagine the Luke she had known living with another woman while he was still married. He just hadn't been the type. Sarah suddenly wondered about what the doctors had warned her of when she'd brought Luke home. They'd said his personality would probably be vastly different from the man she had known. She supposed it was true in some ways. The Luke she had fallen in love with had been a prankster, always cracking witty jokes about everything, always the life of the party. The Luke living with her now was much more quiet and serious and …she supposed brooding was as good a word as any. The Luke she remembered had been borderline anal retentive – very neat and orderly, liking everything just so. The Luke of now didn't seem to care that the DVDs in their collection weren't alphabetized anymore. In many ways, however, he was the same. Maybe if he wasn't, she would have finally, finally been able to put him past her and move on, knowing the Luke she had loved no longer existed. No, this Luke might be a little more mature and serious-minded, but he was still a good, decent person who cared, perhaps too much. The other day, for instance, he had gone next door to Sarah's neighbor because he had noticed the elderly Mrs. Nash struggling with some weeds in her front yard. He had spent the whole day over there making sure the job got done, all the while engaging Edna in easy conversation. Afterward, he had told Sarah, a bit concerned, "Maybe we should invite her over for dinner every now and then. She seems awfully lonely." Every day since, he'd made an effort to visit the woman, who had thankfully kept all of Sarah's secrets although it was obvious Edna now adored Luke herself. Sarah knew she was falling in love with her husband all over again, and there didn't seem to be a damn thing she could do about it. She stared at her reflection and thought, I have to tell him the truth, and I will. But first I have to show him that I have changed, that I love him and want to be the best wife to him that I can be. She even thought of telling him the truth today because the guilt was eating her up. But, no, she couldn't. Call her desperate, call her pathetic. If fighting for the man you loved using whatever hand fate dealt you was a sin, then so be it. No matter how guilty she felt for being so manipulative, she couldn't let herself cave in just yet. She just couldn't. Pulling her hair back into a ponytail, Sarah considered her appearance in the mirror and then headed toward the kitchen to make breakfast for her husband. On the way, she couldn't help but stop at the guest room door and peek inside. Luke was sprawled out, one arm above his head, in a comfortable sleep. Sarah's eyes took in the beauty of his bare, muscled chest above the sheet. The bruises from his accident were almost gone. The cast on his arm had been removed days ago. He'd lost a lot of weight since he'd been in the hospital, she realized, but he was still bigger than she remembered. He'd always been in good shape, but he'd never been quite so…was buff the best word? If he tried wearing any of the shirts or pants she'd pulled out of storage, they might not fit him anymore. She'd have to be careful of that telling evidence. A memory sprang to mind, seeing him like this, so sexily mussed in sleep. He'd looked so similar the morning after their wedding night. They'd had a short engagement simply because Sarah had expressed a desire to wait until they were married to sleep together, and well, they were only human. Not that she'd been a virgin, but neither had she been all that experienced. She'd lost it to her first serious boyfriend in high school, more out of curiosity than love, and had had a fumbling one night stand the first and only time she'd gotten wasted as a sophomore in college. In fact, she had never slept with a man she truly loved before Luke and had wanted their wedding night to be special. She had been scared to death she'd disappoint him, or that they wouldn't be as compatible in bed as they were everywhere else. Instead, he'd been patient, even tender. "I've thought about you like this," he'd whispered as he softly stroked his fingers along her naked body. Sarah had half expected their first time to be quick and hard, to relieve their frustration, but Luke had been in no hurry after he'd undressed them both and had her spread out beside him on the bed. "So beautiful," Luke had murmured, his tongue circling the tip of her breast. "Hot." His teeth had caught her nipple and tugged, drawing a needy moan from her. "And best of all, mine." This he'd said with a sweet kiss as his fingers had slid between the folds of her pussy, bringing her to her first orgasm ever. Sighing, Sarah shook herself of the memory, closed the door and went about her morning routine. She was horny as hell, it seemed, not having made love to her husband in so long. As she was putting the food on the table, Luke appeared, looking very handsome in a pair of tight jeans and one of the black t-shirts she'd bought him the night before she'd brought him home. Yesterday they'd gone to the mall, and he had had his hair cut. It was still longer than she was used to, but cut more fashionably than it had been in the hospital. He looked very rugged and manly, and it was all she could do to keep from throwing herself at him. "Good morning," she said with a smile. "Sleep well?" Luke nodded then considered the meal she'd prepared for him. He seemed uncertain about what to do next, so Sarah motioned him to take a seat. "I was trying to think of something fun we could do today. How about a movie? You used to love going to the movies, but we never seemed to have time to go together." "Sounds like fun," Luke agreed, waiting until she took the seat across from him to dig into his food. There was a lot of tension between them, Sarah knew, but she figured it was normal given the circumstances. Please, God, please don't let it mean he knows I'm hiding things from him. Then he said, "I've been wondering something." "Oh?" "Was I away a lot? I mean," he shrugged, "Working in construction I must have traveled around and left you alone sometimes." An odd question. Sarah almost held her breath as she answered, "You were away a lot, actually. Why? Have you remembered something?" "Not really." But the look he sent her hinted that he knew something he wasn't telling her. He quickly looked away and said, "I just noticed that this house could use a lot of repairs. I wondered why I never worked on them, if I had the time and skill to do it." Sarah swallowed, chewing extra hard on the eggs she'd just pushed into her mouth. The truth was, this house was falling down around her, but she had barely been able to afford the mortgage, let alone pay for the repairs it needed. She'd got a great deal when she bought the place, plus she had needed a place in a hurry, or so she had believed until she'd realized she should have had the house appraised first. Too late Sarah had been locked into the investment with few options. "Um, well. You always meant to get around to them, but when you were home you always had other things to do." "Such as?" She felt her face turn hot as she remembered Luke once saying what his favorite thing to do at home was when he wasn't working. Make love to her. They had always been very affectionate with each other, especially early in their marriage, and it was not uncommon for them to spend the day in bed together, if they could manage it. Luke might not be able to remember those times, but Sarah did. His hot, slick skin sliding against her bare, heated skin. That special way he had of caressing her inner thigh with only his fingertips. The way he felt inside her. Luke must have guessed what she was remembering because he shifted uncomfortably and said, "Yeah, stupid question, I guess." "Sorry. I, um…" God, she could feel her face flaming, partly in embarrassment, partly because she was horny as hell! Sarah brushed a stray strand of hair behind her ear and asked again, "Have you remembered anything? Anything at all? How we met, or…anything?" He shook his head. "I was thinking though. If you wouldn't mind, that is, I would like to work on the house. Do some repairs; maybe throw on some new paint. Maybe if I don't think so hard and get back to work, things will just start coming back to me." Sarah almost said, "I can't ask you to do that," because it felt too much like taking advantage, but she caught herself. In normal circumstances, a husband wouldn't even have to ask his wife such a thing, nor would she protest. So instead, she just smiled and said, "I don't want you to overdo it. If the doctor says it's OK, yeah, that would be great." Sarah cleared her throat and then summoned the courage to say what she'd wanted to say since he came home. "It would be great if you moved back into our bedroom too." At his startled, wary look, she rushed to add, "I am your wife, and I miss you, Luke. We don't have to have sex, but it would be nice just to sleep together again, wouldn't it? It might help us feel closer. After all, we are married…" Luke just shifted uncomfortably and admitted, "I don't know." He must have seen the hurt that passed across her eyes because he added, "You married another man, Sarah. I don't even know you, not really. In my mind, we've never been married until now. It's just a little…awkward. No pressure, remember?" Blushing furiously and trying not to, Sarah lifted her coffee to her lips. "Of course. Um…" Change the subject! "So, what color do you think we should paint the house?" "What's your favorite color?" "Blue." "Then I think we should paint it blue." She felt her eyes well up with emotion, thinking it was just like him to say something so nice. He truly did deserve a better wife, but dammit, she loved him and she could be that woman. She would prove it if it killed her. "Only if the doctor says it's OK," she said with a sigh and looked at her gorgeous husband. Even if it killed her…. *** Luke had an appointment with his doctor the next day and brought up the issue after being examined. "Just don't strain yourself and use common sense. Your body is still healing and you don't want to do worse damage," the doc said. "Speaking of healing … have any memories come back to you since you've been home?" "No," Luke said, a bit frustrated. "I'm starting to think they never will." The doctor made some notes, frowning a bit, then looked at Luke point-blank and said, "Do you want the honest truth?" "Of course I do," he answered with a nervous laugh. "Amnesia isn't like you see in the movies. It's actually more common than you would think, but very few patients recover their lost memories. The brain being the mysterious organ that it is, I won't say that such things never happen, but they don't happen a whole hell of a lot." "Great," Luke mumbled in frustration, rubbing the back of his suddenly tense neck with a trembling hand. He needed to regain his memories. The thought that he might not made him feel sick inside. "I've done some studying and I found a couple of cases that might offer some hope," the doc said, pulling up a chair for himself. "One man was in a car accident and lost all of his memories, all knowledge of his family, his co-workers, everything but the faces of famous politicians. Then, about five years later, he was back on an operating table for heart surgery. When he woke up, he had regained all of his lost memories and knew everything and everyone he had previously forgotten. Who knows why?" "So you're saying I shouldn't hold my breath?" "I'm saying you shouldn't count on getting them back anytime soon. Better to concentrate on rebuilding relationships than remembering them," Dr. Olsen had advised. "Perhaps you and Sarah should consider counseling together, as we suggested before. Think about it." Luke thought about it, a lot. There were a lot questions he had that he didn't think Sarah would answer without an intermediary. She acted so damn secretive sometimes. Late night phone calls he couldn't make out. The other day she'd gotten a package in the mail, turned a strange shade of white, and then tossed it without opening it into the garbage, not realizing Luke was watching from the other room. He'd planned to fish it out and have a look later, but she'd beaten him to it. It had been gone when he'd gotten around to digging it out. It was obvious she was hiding something from him – maybe even several things – but what? *** In the reception room, Sarah once again sat on pins and needles waiting for Luke to come out of his checkup with the doctor. She realized she was biting her nails and frowned as she pulled her hand away from her mouth and saw that most of her nails were now gone. She'd never been a biter before, not even when she and Luke had been having trouble way back when, but she'd obviously been munching away without thought for some time now. If she didn't tell Luke the truth soon, she would probably have a nervous break down, she thought and almost laughed as she imagined herself in a straight jacket, tossed in a padded room. She sighed nervously as she glanced at the door she expected Luke to walk out of any minute now. When he did, the relief she felt was enormous, especially when he sent her a reassuring smile and Dr. Olsen stepped out behind him. "Is everything OK?" she demanded, still a bit worried despite Luke's smile. "He's healing fine," the doctor told her. "Sarah, do you have a second? I think Luke can check himself out just fine." "Uh, sure. Luke?" She turned to him to make sure he didn't mind. Her husband just shrugged, sending the doctor a curious look over her shoulder. "I'll be fine," Luke said. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 02 The doctor held the door open for Sarah and gestured for her to step into the small office just inside the doorway. Following her, he said, "I just wanted to make sure you were doing OK, Sarah. Luke seems to be coming along as well as expected, but he did mention neither of you has seen a counselor since he left the clinic." "That's right," she admitted. She'd been meaning to schedule appointments for them, but just hadn't gotten around to it. She supposed an armchair shrink would say she was afraid of setting Luke up with someone who might help him remember. "We've been so busy." "I think it would help," he advised gently, but sternly. "Do you have any questions while you're here?" What did it say about her that the first question that sprang to mind had to do with sex? She felt her face turn red even as she said, "I, uh, can't really think of any." "You sure?" "Well, what if we wanted to, um, resume marital relations," she began. "Would it be OK? Does Luke need more time to heal?" His wizened old eyes danced with merriment as he answered, "Don't worry. I think its safe for you and Luke to have sex again. That is, unless you're into S&M and practice some pretty strange stuff?" "Uh, no." The older man's laugh caused her to smile. The next few days were busy as Luke detailed his plans for repair while Sarah chauffeured him to the places he needed to buy supplies. One awkward moment came when they were at the hardware store and she ran into the parents of one of her students, who seemed surprised when Sarah introduced Luke as her husband. Afterward, as he loaded buckets of paint and wood into the car, he asked, "Do we have any close friends? Since I left the clinic, we haven't done anything with anyone else. Is that normal?" "Normal for us?" She stalled, helping him place items in the car, until Sarah had to answer, "We used to have a lot of close friends, but we sort of lost touch after we moved here and plus with you being away so much … There just isn't anyone we've been particularly close to." Since moving here, Sarah had been so busy with the school and her own life, she hadn't built any close friendships, she thought as she helped Luke load the car. She was friendly with the other faculty at her school and went to the movies or out for a drink with some of them whenever circumstances allowed it. That was as comfortable as she was with anyone these days. If Luke didn't buy her answer, he didn't say anything. He even suggested they stop at the mall and catch a movie while they were out, and he insisted on buying everything. His playfulness as they waited in line reminded Sarah of the early days when they had first begun dating, and she smiled, wondering if they could simply start all over again. Would it be that easy? Taking a chance, she reached for his hand, and when he didn't pull away, she allowed herself to relax and enjoy the movie. Maybe it could be that easy after all. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 03 3 Buffy spent the rest of the day with a smile across her face all because of Angel McKeon. He made her feel like a real woman. The way he held her afterwards and not leaving her was the sweetest thing ever. Though she just couldn't believe that she was getting involved with a married man. 'Faith's gonna flip when she finds out that Angel's married.' Faith just stepped pout of her room when she noticed her best friend still had the same outfit from the night before. She figured that maybe things went well with Mr. Good Looking. She noticed that Buffy was beaming with happiness. 'Oh, she definitely got some and it must have been great.' "So Buffy how was your night?" "It was nice. I can see that you had a great time as well. So you and Spike huh? Is it getting serious?" "Yeah, I was with Spike. I don't know about us. We'll see. So getting back to you and Angel. What happened?" "We slept with each other. Then of course the biggest thing was that he's married." "You're shitting me. Angel's married. So I guess things between you and him are over right?" "Not really. We decided to see each other secretly. So it's not over," Buffy said smiling. "B, you know that you're playing with fire and you might get burned? H's not going to leave you for his wife." "I like playing with fire. Besides I'll persuade him with my charm and he'll be mine." "I just want you to be careful okay." "Gee, since when did you become a mother hen?" "Never. It's just that I know you B. Your gonna fall for this guy and he's gonna break your heart." "He won't." 'If he does I'll definitely try to be a step ahead of the game.' ~*~*~*~*~* Angel met up with Spike in the lobby of the Sunnydale Hotel. They were leaving and heading back to Los Angeles to their normal lives. Spike was looking at Angel and could tell that something was different about his long time best friend. "Angel." "Yeah. What is it Spike?" "How were things with you and blondie last night?" "Her name's Buffy. We got to know each other better," he said grinning. "So you got horizontal with her didn't you?" "Yes. I slept with Buffy." Thanks to Spike he just couldn't stop thinking about her. "So it's over between you two?" Spike asked. He was curious of his best friend would actually pursue this relationship. "Yeah, it is. We both decided to spend one night. I mean after all I'm married to Darla." 'Who are you kidding? You knew perfectly well that you couldn't just end things like that wither. Though there's no way you're telling Spike because one day he might just let it slip in front of Darla. No this one secret is going to remain to myself for now.' "Good. You sure don't want Darla knowing anything. Oh, and I won't mention about your tryst with Buffy," he said smiling. "Thanks Spike." 'Cause if you did, you'll regret it.' ~*~*~*~*~* Angel made it home and he was tired from the limo drive and he just wanted to take a shower, eat something and then head to bed. Though that was in a fantasy world. He knew perfectly well that Darla would annoy him with some shit that wasn't worth worrying about. "I'm home. Even though I'd rather be somewhere else," he muttered the last line under his breath. He didn't hear Darla respond, but heard the barking of his dog Bertha Blue coming his way. "Hey there girl. I missed you," he said kneeling before the dog. Bertha licked his face as he scratched behind her neck. "You like that don't you girl? Yeah, you do." He was glad that he bought his dog two years ago. He knew that when he bought his house that he needed a companion when he came home from work. "Angel, you're home. I was waiting to eat dinner with you," she said smiling. "Oh, you really didn't have to. I'm going to take a shower, have something to eat and then sleep." He said walking towards the steps. "Can I join you?" "No. I'm not in the mood tonight." 'If you were another blonde, I'd love to have you then.' ~*~*~*~*~* Both Buffy and Angel were in their bathrooms inside the shower washing their bodies when they both started thinking about the other. Angel couldn't get her smile and those green eyes that had adventure and intrigue. He knew for sure that she's a wild one, but had a nice heart as well. "I miss you Buffy and it hasn't even been a day," he said smiling. He applied the Lever 2000 soap all over his arms, chest and legs. He then laid his hands on the tiles of the bathroom as the showerhead's water went cascading down his hair leading to his naked body. He knew for sure that this coming up week would be difficult, but would be rewarded by seeing Buffy. Buffy on the other hand was washing her hair massaging her scalp letting her fingers doing the job. Though she had a thought about Angel at the moment since when she saw him and they met up the following night for their first sexual encounter which led to two others that occurred that night made her want Angel even more. It just wasn't the sex that was amazing, but the aftermath of having someone there. She could tell how nice of a man that he is. "I can't wait to see Angel this weekend. This week is going to be long and boring. Hopefully I'll be distracted with work that when the weekend comes around it'll be me and Angel." She went off to rinse her hair, then stepped out with a towel wrapped around her body and on her hair. She found her T-shirt and underwear and slipped then one and then sat in her bed drying her hair. When she was cone she slipped under the covers and went to sleep to be dreaming about Angel. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 03 It was hot, damn hot, and as Luke wiped the sweat off his brow, he glanced at his wife and realized it was getting even hotter. Damn. Sarah was driving him crazy, wearing those skimpy shorts and that itty-bitty shirt that barely fit her as she bent over what was shaping up to be a really pretty flower garden. Every inch of her exposed newly tanned skin was tempting him to go over there and get dirty with her, in more ways than one. He returned his attention to the brand new coat of paint he'd spent the past day and a half putting on the house and tried not to think about Sarah. When he did, he only got more and more confused about his feelings. He often wavered between an awkward feeling of "it's none of my business" and "I'll never know if I don't ask." Luke still hadn't asked Sarah about the phone call he'd overheard his first night at home – he'd convinced himself it didn't mean anything to him since he had no feelings for her anyway. Even so, he'd decided to stick around and see if any of his memories returned. Then, if it mattered, he'd ask her who the hell she'd been talking to and why. Well, none of his memories had returned yet, but Luke found the more time he spent with this woman, the more he liked Sarah and wanted to get to know her. She was smart, caring, funny. The problem was, even without his memories, it was starting to matter to him that she might be in love with someone else. There was definitely an attraction between them, some type of bond Luke couldn't explain even if he tried, but he didn't know what the hell to do about it. He was pretty sure Sarah felt it too. Was it proper to make a move on a woman you were married to when you couldn't remember your history with her? Especially if you thought she might have been cheating on you behind your back? Plus, he was now having other doubts as well. It had hit him one afternoon while bringing in the mail that the address on his driver's license didn't match this one, and Sarah had said they'd lived here a few years. What the hell did that mean? He'd asked Sarah about it, hoping she could offer a reasonable explanation. She had seemed surprised, maybe a little shocked, but then had brushed it off as unimportant, something he'd just forgotten to have done. He thought, but didn't argue, that he was pretty sure it was illegal to forget such things after a certain amount of time. Why didn't he believe she was being completely honest with him? Why didn't it make sense, the idea of Sarah, such a quiet, devoted lady, cheating on him? Did she lead a secret life, whoring around behind his back for kicks? Or worse, had she done it with his approval, for both of their kicks? Either scenario scared the hell out of Luke, quite frankly. The man he was now absolutely could not tolerate sharing his wife with any other lover. He'd definitely leave her first, but… maybe he was just jumping to conclusions. Maybe he should just accept what she had said was plausible and forget about his doubts. So many doubts… There was also the money he'd discovered in his bank account. His single bank account, which had a hell of a lot of money in it for someone whose wife and home gave Luke the impression they were struggling along financially. He had begun to wonder if he'd discovered Sarah's infidelity and had been planning to make a break by opening an account she couldn't access. If Sarah were cheating or in love with someone else, was she just staying with Luke now because he'd lost his memories and she felt sorry for him? He hated the idea of that more than the idea of her cheating. Of course, Luke also had to wonder about his own fidelity, being away from her so much. What kind of man had he really been? What kind of marriage had they really had? Maybe he'd been the guilty party and she was trying to protect him from that knowledge now… Aw, hell. There were those doubts again, creeping in no matter how hard he tried not to think about them. He and Sarah had agreed to counseling together, and their first appointment was tomorrow afternoon. Maybe he'd get some answers then. He sighed and then lowered the paint roller to its pan. Sarah must have caught on to the fact that he was finished with his task because her sweet voice called out, "So what do you think?" He turned and figured she was asking his opinion about her flowers, but he couldn't help himself. His eyes caught and lingered on her, kneeling in the grass, using the back of her wrist to wipe her brow, leaving a smudge of dirt there and still looking so damn sexy he once again couldn't believe he'd won this creature for his wife. "So?" Sarah prompted again, a little uncertainly. "Beautiful," was all he said. She smiled happily and her own gaze slid to the work he'd just finished. "That looks so much better. Do you want me to help you finish up?" Together they worked to get the job done, but the sweltering heat of the Georgia sun about did both of them in. Luke had long ago discarded his t-shirt, and Sarah's was wet and sticking to her chest by the time they called it quits and headed inside to the kitchen for something to drink. "Are you feeling OK? You haven't overdone it, have you?" she asked him for about the hundredth time since he'd started tinkering around the house. "I'm fine. Just thirsty." She poured him some sweet iced tea and then leaned back against the refrigerator to gulp down her own fair share. Luke watched her, wondering if there was anything sexier than a scantily-clad woman like her covered in sweat, in that pose. Too late he realized Sarah was doing some watching of her own, her eyes lingering on his bare chest. Suddenly their eyes met. He saw her swallow and turn away, then say, "What would you like for dinner? I was thinking of making pot roast, but—oh!" She had knocked something to the floor and bent to pick it up. Since it was closer to him, he bent down to pick it up at the same time. "Oh, sorry," she said when they awkwardly bumped into each other coming up. Luke couldn't say for sure how it happened or who made the first move, but the next thing he knew, his lips were on hers and her arms were around his neck, hanging on for dear life. It started out slow and tentative and quickly exploded into one hell of a kiss. He slid one hand around Sarah's waist, hauling her smaller body against his much harder one. The impact made her gasp, and he took full advantage, sliding his tongue inside her lips for a taste. It was hot and hungry and fierce, the way they tasted each other. She bit and sucked at his lower lip, her hands tangling in his hair to keep him from pulling away from her. He found himself backing her up until she was pressed firm against the refrigerator door, no room for escape herself. Finally, they had to breathe, so Luke pulled away but didn't stop, moving his head down to the side of her neck. She tasted damp and salty, but he didn't care, not when Sarah gasped, "Oh, Luke, yes!" He slid one hand over her smooth midriff, pushing her tank top up as he sought out the feel of her breast. Finding it, he slid his fingers beneath the elastic of her bra, teasing her until she begged, "Please Luke!" "What do you want, Sarah? Tell me and I'll do it," he whispered heavily in her ear. "I don't know what you like." She kissed him hard, then said, "You. I like you. Please …" He realized her hands were no longer holding him against her. They were between their bodies, reaching for the zipper of his jeans as her eyes begged him not to stop. "Make love to me, Luke. It's all either of us wants." Reason vanished. Once again his mouth was on hers, his hands were on her body, lifting her until her arms clung to his neck so she didn't fall. He carried her down the hall until he had to make a choice – his room or hers? Luke supposed he should take her into her room, their room, but he still felt most comfortable in the space he'd been given. He veered to the left and pushed open the door to the guest room. He lowered her to the bed, and when he made to pull away, she arched against him, her lips clung to his in a wild, urgent display of need. Sarah pushed at his jeans, shoving them past his hips as she tore her mouth away from his, only to lave hot, tiny kisses across his chest. His hands sought her heated skin, skimming under her shirt, pushing the offending garment up and over her head and tossing it aside. She strained against him, offering more. Against his lips, he felt her mouth form his name, pleading for more. It didn't take him long to get rid of the rest of her clothes and his. He pushed Sarah back onto the bed, wanting to make this good for her but knowing he probably wouldn't be able to. Not this time. His lips found and suckled her breasts while one of his hands explored the sensitive area between her thighs. Oh yeah, she was wet, more than ready for him, he discovered. Pushing her legs apart, he settled himself between them, then lifted his mouth from hers so he could see her eyes when he first entered her. He tried to make it slow, his entry; slow so they would both feel as much sensation as possible from the experience. Her mouth opened wide and her breathing became even more labored, as if she too were as affected by their joining as he was. Luke pushed until all of him rested inside her tight heat, and then he stilled, leaning down to taste her mouth again. "Luke, please," she begged and wiggled beneath him. He felt one of her legs wrap around his, and she arched her hips up and against his, burying him even deeper. They both moaned, and Luke couldn't hold back anymore. He didn't know how long it had been since they'd had sex, but for his damaged mind, it felt like this was the first time ever. He could hardly control his thrusts as he tried not to pound away at her like some rutting animal. It didn't help that she was moaning like a bitch in heat, matching his every thrust with one of her own. He felt his control slip and knew he was about to lose it. With a mighty groan and one last, hard thrust he came, then managed a few more thrusts as his cock emptied its seed inside her. Since Sarah was trembling beneath him, he assumed she had managed an orgasm too, and he was grateful he hadn't embarrassed himself too much. He rolled off her and felt totally drained. Luke knew he could go right to sleep, but hell, he was too sticky and hot. He needed a shower bad. He glanced at her, and Sarah curled up against him, sliding one arm across his chest, looking suddenly shy and uncertain and yet totally uncaring that they were both sweaty and filthy as hell. "Thank you," she whispered. "I don't know if that meant anything to you, but it meant more to me than I can say right now." He didn't want her to doubt that he'd wanted what had happened, so he lifted her face so he could see her eyes. "It meant something," he assured her. Then, as if they both realized what had happened and how ridiculous they must sound, their faces slowly burst into big ridiculous smiles. "I think we're ruining the sheets. Care for a shower?" Luke suggested. "Together?" "Unless you prefer to shower alone," he answered diplomatically, hoping she wanted to continue this intimacy with him. "Together," Sarah said emphatically, leaning over to kiss him. Luke was pretty sure that shower was the most erotic thing he'd ever experienced in his life as they each used their hands to rediscover the other. He was amazed that Sarah let his hands glide over her naked curves so freely and so patiently. He found himself particularly fascinated with her breasts, which were not as large as he'd imagined, but filled the shape of his hands just perfect. As for her, Sarah couldn't keep her mouth off him, and even seemed a little amazed about something as her soapy hands wandered over his muscled arms and chest. He finally commented on her rapt attention to his pectorals, and she blushed and leaned into him shyly beneath the spray, then admitted, "I-I haven't really noticed what good shape you're in lately." "What? Did I used to be soft or something?" he teased. "No!" She licked at his nipple, murmured a brief, sexy, "Mmm," then explained, "You've always been lean, but never like this." "And you like this better?" he asked, already knowing the answer was yes because of the way she touched him. "Mmmm," was her answer as she slowly sank to her knees and discovered another part of him she obviously liked. At first, she used her soapy hands to caress his length, but as he quickly grew in arousal, she began to press tiny kisses to the head of his cock. For Luke, it was a totally new sensation, and he felt his knees almost buckle beneath him, especially when Sarah took him into the heat of her mouth. "Oh god," he groaned and helplessly pushed his hips into her wanting more. She didn't disappoint. Her lips and tongue worshipped his cock like a pro, bringing him to the edge of orgasm so that he was gritting his teeth trying to maintain control. "Enough," he managed a bit raggedly. "I'm gonna cum," he warned. Sarah pulled her mouth off him long enough to smile up at him and say, "It's OK. You love for me to swallow." "Yeah, but do you like it?" he groaned. "Not always," she admitted, even as she continued to pump his cock with one hand. "But this time I want to. Don't hold back." And then her mouth was on him again, her eyes smiling up at him as she watched him struggle for control. When she actually began licking and sucking his shaft, Luke finally lost it. It felt like he came buckets down her throat, but she greedily swallowed every bit without complaint. Afterward, she stood and resumed her exploration of his body, not looking the least bit disgusted or disappointed with him. In fact, with a happy sigh, Sarah leaned forward and hugged him, resting her slick, wet and naked body against his as if there were nothing else she'd rather be doing. Hell, Luke was no Superman and he doubted he would be able to get it up again for a while, but he was a gentleman and didn't want her to go unsatisfied. He allowed himself the pleasure of hugging her back, pressing her naked front against his as he slid his hands over her backside in his own gentle exploration before pulling away so he could position her just right… She giggled when, after pressing her against the wall, he began kissing his way down her throat, down to her lovely breasts and then positioned her left leg up and at an awkward angle. "Luke?!" she squealed when he got on his knees and began kissing the sensitive mound of her belly just above her pubic area. Pushing her leg over his shoulder for support, he then began kissing the inside of her thighs. "Oh god, Luke…" Sarah moaned when his tongue got involved and discovered her slit. He licked and tasted her until she was trembling above him, begging him to stop. With one last thrust of his tongue against her clit, she came hard, clutching at his hair and pressing his mouth against her mound even as her hips lost control and humped his face. With a satisfied smile, Luke lifted himself and gathered her in his arms, pulling her in close for a sexy open-mouthed kiss. In the heat of the moment, he'd forgotten that she had just swallowed his semen and he had sucked her pussy juices and the taste of it mixed together was a bit strange at first. Her eyes flew open and met his, as if she'd just come to the same realization. Sarah was the first one to make a weird face, but she didn't pull away. Luke broke the kiss with an odd look of his own. "Gross," they both said at the same time before bursting into laughter and washing out their mouths with the spray of the shower. Finally Luke felt his still not-quite-100-percent body begging for rest, and reluctantly reached around the curtain for a towel. "You've wrung me out, woman," he teased. "I feel like I could sleep for at least a week." Not even bothering with clothes or covering, they snuggled together in the bed, Sarah seeming just as tired as Luke was. Perhaps it was because they'd both just released a lot of pent up frustration, both physical and emotional, after all these weeks of tip-toeing around each other. It felt as if everything, and yet nothing, had been resolved in that one torrid fuck. As if she were reading his mind, Sarah sighed against him and murmured, half asleep, "We need to talk. I have things I need to tell you." With a sigh of his own, Luke smiled, almost asleep and agreed, "Tomorrow." Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 04 4 The week was really restless for Angel. He just wanted the meetings to be done and over with so he could head to Sunnydale and see Buffy. 'Just thinking about her brings a smile to my face and makes me feel happy inside.' "Well we've done the preliminaries and it looks like everything is set," Spike said. "What about the Computer Graphics Department? Willow you taking care of that?" "Sure thing Mr. McKeon." Willow Rosenburg had always treated her boss with the utmost respect. "Willow, don't call me Mr. McKeon. It makes me think of my father. So just call me Angel, okay?" Angel said smiling at the redhead. "Okay. Oh, Angel I was wondering if I could leave early today because I have a friend in Sunnydale to visit? "Sure. Actually we'll leave together since I'm heading that way. I'm taking the limo there." "Yeah, that'd be great. I didn't know you had friends in Sunnydale." "Oh, I just have one." 'She ain't no friend. She's one great lover.' "Hey it's not fair that she gets to ride in the limo!" Xander exclaimed. "I'm going to visit Buffy. You can come along too. If it's okay with you Angel?" "Sure." Angel was stunned. Willow's friend in Sunnydale is none other than Buffy. His Buffy. 'Could things get any weirder? Probably.' ~*~*~*~*~* Angel, Willow and Xander were in the limo headed to Sunnydale. It had been quite a while since both Willow and Xander had been Buffy. "I can't believe that we're gonna see Buffy! It's been ages." "Yeah. I haven't seen the Buffster in quite a while." Angel had to smile at Xander's nickname for Buffy. He just couldn't wait to spend some time with her. "So the both of you knew Buffy growing up?" Angel asked curiously. "Actually we've known her since high school. Xander and I grew up together." "Oh. No wonder you can tolerate him." "Hey! That's uncalled for! I'm a great friend." "He's just kidding Xander." The limo then stopped off in front of their destination. "Enjoy your weekend Angel," Willow said smiling. "Thanks you too." ~*~*~*~*~* Buffy was getting dressed and was planning to meet Angel at the hotel when the doorbell rang. 'I wonder who that could be? It couldn't be Angel, but that would be a nice surprise.' Buffy quickly made her way down the stairs and opened the door to be surprised by her high school friends. "Oh my God! Willow, Xander, it's so good to see you," she said hugging the redhead and then the dark haired guy. "You to Buffy. We both thought that we'd surprise you." "Surprise!" Xander exclaimed enthusiastically. "Wow! I'm surprised. Come on inside." They made it to the living room to sit on the couch. Willow looked at Buffy and could tell by the way she's dressed that she had already made plans for the night. "Buffy were you planning on going out tonight? You looked all dressed up and I doubt it's for us." "You sure look hot Buffster." Buffy's attire was a beige camisole with a brown skirt and shoes to match. "Thanks Xander. Actually you're right Willow. I was going out, but since you two are here I'll just call my friend and we'll meet up tomorrow." "Oh, Buffy I feel bad really. You don't have to change your mind you know." "It's okay Willow. I'm gonna go up and change, call my friend and be right down to talk about old times." ~*~*~*~*~* Angel had just arrived at the hotel and sat on the couch with his legs up on the table and his shoes next to him on the carpeted floor. His head was leaned back resting on a cushion, the sleeves of his shirt were rolled up and he taken off his tie. Angel looked so relax and rested, but was interrupted by the telephone ringing in his room. 'Who would be calling me here? Please let it not Darla' Angel quickly made his way and answered the phone. "Hello." "Hi Angel." Angel just took a moment to stop and realized that it was Buffy calling him. "Buffy." "The one and only." He already figured out why she called. "Is something wrong?" "Actually yes. You see my two friends from high school came by and I really wanted to stay with them because being rude isn't nice. Then at the same time…" "Buffy. You're babbling. It's okay if you wanna stay with your friends." "Really?" She thought he was being sweet about the whole thing because they were supposed to spend time together. "Yeah. I'm just going to miss you tonight. It's going to be lonely in this bed all alone with no one to talk to." "I doubt talking is what we'd be doing," she said smiling. "Have fun with your friends and I'll see you soon." "I'm coming tomorrow." "There's no rush. I don't want your friends thinking that I'm tying you up." "I didn't know you liked bondage," she said huskily. "That's not what I meant and you know it. See you soon. 'Night Buffy." " 'Night Angel." ~*~*~*~*~* Buffy went back downstairs dressed in jeans and a cute T-shirt that read "LOVE ME" on it. "So how long has it been you guys?" "Quite a while Buffy. The last time we saw each other it was your birthday." "Yeah, now I remember. So Willow how's Oz doing?" "He's fine actually. He has a gig here so I thought that I'd surprise him," Willow said smiling. "How about you Xander?" "Well Cordy is wondering when I'm going to pop the question. I'm not ready yet." "Well you better not keep her waiting any longer. She might find another guy." They chatted for the rest of the night and they all headed to bed around two in the morning. ~*~*~*~*~* Buffy had made plans to go shopping with Willow, while Xander went to visit his parents. They would all meet up later and hopefully Buffy could find away to see Angel. A part of her wished that her friends wouldn't come, but she was thrilled to see them anyway. It was about noon and Willow suggested that they head over to the food court. Willow was rather curious about her longtime friend's whereabouts. She wanted to know if Buffy had a boyfriend. "So Buffy when you were all dressed up yesterday, were you going on a date?" "Maybe." Willow looked at her. "Okay. Yes, I was. But it's no big deal. I told him that maybe I'll see him tonight." "You should see him. I'll be seeing Oz and chances are Xander might convince Cordelia to stop by." "But I feel bad about bailing out you guys." "It's okay. So what's he like? Where is he from? Are you in love with him?" "Gee Willow! Why so many questions? He's sweet. He's from L.A. the last question is a no for now." Buffy really wasn't ready to tell Willow about her and Angel. She just wouldn't understand how her feelings are for Angel. ~*~*~*~*~* A part of Angel hoped that Buffy would come see him tonight because he was getting annoyed with the excessive phone calls that he wife was giving him. She knew that he has to be away, but she was being a bitch about it. 'How stupid could I be to ever marry her? Oh, great the phone is ringing again.' "Hello," he said unenthusiastically. "I guess I shouldn't have called." "Oh, Buffy. I'm so sorry. I thought you were Darla." "Oh, it's okay. I just wanted to tell you that I'm coming over." That last statement just brought a smile to his face. "I'll be waiting," he said smiling ear to ear. ~*~*~*~*~* Buffy made her way to the hotel room and booked the one that was right next to him. She didn't want to be too suspicious about their whereabouts. She had never done this before and it was dangerous, exciting and an adventure that she wouldn't forget. Buffy left her luggage in her room, made her way out and knocked on his door. "Hi," she said smiling. "Buffy, come on in." Buffy brushed past him with her breasts beneath her blouse making a brief contact with his chest. He turned to watch her legs walk right inside and went straight into the bedroom and sat on the edge of the bed. He quickly locked the door and made his way to the bedroom. She was sitting with her legs crossed with her arms behind her back leaning on the bed. He black skirt hiked up a bit exposing her thighs before him. "See anything you like?" She asked with a smile that held something more. "You actually," she said making his way over to her. He then lowered his head and captured her lips into a sweet kiss. Her hands went through the short hairs of his neck grasping him closer to her deepening the kiss. He let go and licked his lips to look into her green eyes. "So are we going to eat? You must be hungry." "Actually, I wanted to have dessert. So why don't you get out of these clothes and we'll have dessert," she said pulling his tie to have his face meet hers and their lips were mere inches apart. "Okay," he swallowed the lump that was apparently in his throat. She moved her lips into his and started kissing him. He placed his hands on the bed for support and Buffy began to undue his tie tossing it aside and started with the buttons of his shirt. Angel all the deepening the kiss by placing his tongue with hers and enjoyed the feeling. Buffy moaned at the contact. Her fingers were beginning to have trouble with the buttons so she tore the shirt open and then went to the waistband of his pants and unbuckled his belt, while Angel's lips left hers and went onto her as his fingers undid her blouse letting it fall off her shoulders. His next task was undoing her bar and threw that onto the floor. He lifted her up in his arms and unzipped her skirt letting it fall. Angel's brown eyes looked at the sight of Buffy with her bare breasts before him and her lacy black underwear. Buffy had already finished with his pants so he was standing before her in his black silk boxers. The sight of his chest all muscular and strong to the nice smile that always shows her how happy he is. She went back on the bed moving further up as Angel quickly she his boxers remaining nude before him. He went on the bed and lay beside her and proceeded to kiss her as his hand wandered down and found the waistband of her panties maneuvering his fingers feeling her all around. He then slid her panties off with Buffy kicking them off. His hand went right back to her stomach going lower and lower until he felt her mound, which was smooth. His fingertips touching her sensitive mound caused little jots of electricity down there. Buffy's hand found it's way to his throbbing erection and began stroking it. She loved feeling his erection in her hand and hearing him moan while they kissed. His lips left hers and started kissing her neck as his hand went back to its place right between her legs parting it open and gently began rubbing her clit with gentle strokes. As his fingers continued on Buffy's moans increased the heat in her body. "More Angel," she said breathlessly. Angel went in with his ministrations by placing a finger inside going in and out of her while his thumb rubbed in her sensitive spot. "Hmm. More Angel," He inserted another finger as her hips began rocking back and forth. Angel went and added another finger. Buffy's body just couldn't handle the sensations anymore. She felt her orgasm approaching. "Angel. Please stop," she said out of breath. He moved his lips to wards her ear and whispered. "Do you really want that?" He then increased the speed of his fingers. "No. I'm just so close that I'm about to come." "Come for me," he said huskily. Buffy heard those words and her hips bucked wildly as her orgasm approached. "Yes!" Buffy breathing went down, as she looked those brown eyes. "I'm getting you for this," she said wickedly. She then continued stroking him faster. "Buffy! No!" "Yes!" She continued on, but Angel placed his hand over hers. "Please. I just need to be inside of you," he said filled with lust. "Okay. But I'm getting you back." "Fine." She then moved her body and had her back facing him. Buffy then took a hold of his erection and slid it right into her opening. They both hissed at the contact. Buffy had an advantage in this situation because she could control his actions. She looked down and watched him going in and out of her entryway. Buffy began clenching her inner muscles to hear Angel moan in satisfaction. Angel's hands found it's way to her breasts and began massaging them between his fingers lightly tweaking her nipples causing Buffy to moan loudly. "Oh!" Buffy felt every part of her body just buzzing reacting with Angel's erection inside of her and his hands just sculpting her as if she was the perfect piece of art. She tilted her head until her lips reached his and leaned in for a kiss. As she let go of the kiss she increased her speed even faster. "Faster!" Angel leaned his hips up and they both in unison began bucking their hips wildly until their orgasm took over. "Ugh!" As Buffy slid over she leaned into Angel and looked up at him. "So are you ready for dinner now?" He asked with a grin and then kissed her wet forehead. "Yeah. Though it's true that the best thing on the menu is dessert." Angel laughed. "What am I going to do with you?" "Anything you want," she said replied and began to drift off to sleep. "I'll keep that in mind." To be continued... Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 04 Luke felt like a teenager in love when he woke up the next morning. Any doubts about his previous feelings seemed so insignificant now. He was in love with his wife. He almost felt jealous that she had loved those parts of himself he couldn't remember – as if he himself had been another man. So what if she'd been involved with someone else for that matter? As long as they saw this as a fresh start for the people they were now, Luke was willing to forget his suspicions as long as she vowed to be faithful to him from this point on. That had been his last thought before falling asleep last night, and it still seemed like a good one, he decided. Despite his feelings of euphoria, Luke had a strange feeling come over him at that thought, as if he didn't want to regain his memories anymore because they might make him feel differently toward Sarah. He shook himself of it and decided to focus on his feelings of happiness as he got out of bed. He grimaced, feeling a bit like he'd been hit by a bus – perhaps he'd overdone it yesterday after all. His arm was hurting like hell, and so was his back, but maybe that was to be expected. He could smell the breakfast Sarah was cooking from the kitchen and smiled, feeling his appetite stir. Sliding on his jeans and a shirt, he walked barefooted down the hall and snuck up on his wife, who was in front of the stove in nothing more than her robe. With a smile, he slid his arms around her from behind and told her, "Something smells good, and I'm not just talking about the food." Sarah laughed softly and turned her head to give him a sweet kiss. "Good morning." "Mmm." He kissed her neck as she tried desperately to focus on getting the eggs onto a plate. Despite lots of kissing and touching, she finally had the table set and begged him to leave her alone long enough for them to eat. He would have really enjoyed bending her over the table for breakfast, but in all honesty, his body probably wasn't up to the task just yet. After chit-chatting about nothing for a few minutes, Sarah reminded him, "We really need to talk about some things, Luke." He almost told her it wasn't that important, that he knew everything he needed to know, but he was realistic enough to realize the doubts would creep in again if he didn't squash them now. "I know," he agreed with a sigh. "I have some questions I'd like to ask." Sarah looked almost apprehensive, but she was a strong woman. He saw her body language change as if she were willing it not to cower. "I'm sure you'll have even more when I'm finished talking. Please," she pleaded when he went to interrupt, "let me go first." Luke wondered where she'd begin. His money, and her lack of it. His license. Her late night phone calls? If she had another man, she would have a choice to make. Tell Luke the truth so they could try to work things out, or just tell him she wanted to be with someone else. He didn't want her to stay with him out of pity. He wanted her to stay out of love, but he would not share her either way. As if Sarah were reading his mind, her first words were, "Since you came home, I've been keeping something from you," she said, adding, "Or more appropriately, someone." "Is his name Jack?" Luke questioned calmly, a little amazed she'd breached this subject so abruptly. "How do you..?" She looked at him as if he'd suddenly grown horns. He watched her swallow hard then take a deep breath and say, "I have to show you something. And if you can forgive me after that…" Grasping his hand, she somberly led him down the hall toward their bedroom, only she stopped long enough to retrieve her keys along the way. Sarah went to the locked door he had wondered about the first day she'd brought him home, the one he felt certain was a storage closet of some sort. She hesitated before unlocking it, but when she opened it and pushed the door wide, he couldn't believe what he saw. It was a room, a small one, but it was definitely a bedroom. A child's room judging by the small bed and scattering of toys all about. Without a word, Sarah walked over to pick up a framed photo sitting on a shelf over the bed. "Luke, I want you to meet Jack," she said and handed him the photo. As he gazed at the photo of Sarah hugging a small little boy who looked so much like the pictures Luke had seen of himself at that age, she leaned against him and whispered, "Meet your son." If she'd punched him, it probably wouldn't have winded Luke harder than this revelation. In shock, he stared at the photograph, pouring over every little detail of the small face, the blue-bright eyes full of laughter, the freckles on his nose, the sandy brown hair combed neatly to the side, the wide, mischievous grin. "I have a son?" he said in disbelief. "Why didn't you tell me? Where is he? I mean—how is this possible?" "He's been on vacation with my parents since you came home," she explained quickly, calmly. "As for why I didn't tell you, Luke, it's because I didn't want him getting hurt. He's so fragile, and I didn't know if you would…" she stopped and swallowed, unable to meet his eyes as he completed the thought for her. She hadn't known if Luke would remember his own son, and if he hadn't, that would have probably hurt the child beyond words. Luke didn't like it, but he understood. "How old is he?" "Almost three," she answered. "I've almost told you a thousand times, but I was afraid to. After a while, it almost seemed easier to forget about him just for a little while, just long enough for us to fall in love again. I thought if you could accept me as your wife, it would make it easier for you to accept Jack as your son. Does that make sense, Luke, or do you hate me for this?" "I don't hate you," he reassured her. He couldn't stop staring at the photo though, wondering what the child's personality was like, hoping some memory of him would come along to ease the shock of it all. It didn't. "Why didn't you at least tell me I had a son when I first woke up in the hospital?" "You didn't remember me," she said, emotionally. "I wasn't thinking right. The doctors told me to be careful what I said, because they didn't want you upset. I wasn't thinking right…god, Luke, there were so many reasons." He acknowledged that. "When will he be here?" Sarah hugged him from the side and confessed, "He can't stay with my parents forever. Right now they're on a cruise in the Bahamas, but they're due back in two weeks. Besides, he wants so badly to come home and see you, he can hardly stand it." He had a son. Luke couldn't believe it. "Are there any other children I should know about?" he asked almost cruelly. Thinking better of it, he said, "I'm sorry, this has just been sort of unexpected." "I'm sorry," she told him, holding him tight. Pulling back, Sarah asked, "Would you like to see more pictures? I've got a ton." With a watery smile, he nodded and followed her into the living room, putting at least part of the puzzle together in his mind. The late night calls. They had been to her parents in another state, checking on her son. Luke flipped through pages of photos detailing his son's life and had to fight back tears of pride. The little guy really was something else. But— "Why aren't I in any of these pictures with the two of you?" He flipped back through some of the pages and said, "I'm not in any of them." "There's the other thing I have to tell you. I had to tell you about Jack first because—" Just then the doorbell rang, and Sarah clutched the front of her robe and wondered out loud, "I wonder who that could be." "You go get dressed," he told her. "I'll get it." It turned out to be yet another insurance investigator wanting to talk to Luke about the accident at the construction site. He'd told everyone he couldn't help them because he couldn't remember anything, but they still kept calling and stopping by. Sarah was usually with him and helped fend them off, citing his health as a concern and that they should come back later. Well, at least this guy was fairly easy to talk to. They chatted about the Braves for a few minutes before the man got down to business. He told Luke the construction company he'd worked for had been cited as negligent in the accident, and it was his job to either prove or disprove that theory before the case went to trial. "The strange thing is," the man said, pulling out some documents, "I went over the site myself right after the accident, and I'm almost a hundred percent certain someone had tampered with the support beams." "Really?" "Is there anyone you can think of who might want to hurt you? Anyone you worked with who might have had a grudge against you personally?" "Me?" Luke almost laughed. "Even if there were, I couldn't tell you because I can't remember a damn thing." "Perhaps I could speak to your wife," the man said. "I understand from your co-workers that the two of you were separated at the time of the accident, but you might have told her something…?" Separated. As if he'd had one too many blows delivered to him in one day, Luke felt his head sway and the room go dizzy. What did the man mean by separated? Surely Sarah would have told him. Then again, she hadn't told him he had a son until today. And she'd said there was more… "Luke?" he heard Sarah's voice ask, and he looked up to see her approaching from the hall, fully dressed. "Who's our visitor?" "He was just leaving," Luke said adamantly, shooting the investigator a hard look. The man left his card and a promise to call again in a few days when Luke "was feeling better." "What's wrong, Luke?" Sarah asked. "You're so pale all of a sudden. Do you need some medicine? Should I call the doctor?" "No, I need some answers," he said, probably a bit too harshly. "What were you going to tell me before we were interrupted?" She looked at him carefully for a few minutes before saying, "I'm not sure you're up to hearing what I have to say. Maybe we should wait until later…" "We'll talk now," he told her, making her sit down beside him on the sofa where she couldn't get away. "Tell me." "I…I just wanted to tell you how much I love you," Sarah said, and he could tell by the look in her eyes she was lying. She'd planned to tell him something else. "Really?" He eyed her carefully as he asked, "So you weren't planning on telling me we'd been separated before I had the accident and why?" She gasped and turned pale herself. "You've remembered." "No," Luke admitted. "Apparently it was common knowledge. I'm feeling a little baffled at how you could have kept it a secret from me until now. It explains a lot though." "Please, Luke," she begged, unable to stop the tears from falling. "Let me explain." "I'm listening." He said calmly, trying to give her the benefit of the doubt. He was so tempted to just say to hell with it and walk out. Sarah closed her eyes, wiped away the tears and seemed to be conjuring up all of her courage to face him with this news. Luke felt a strange feeling of dread come over him as he waited, struggling between feelings of his hurt and love for this woman. "Before I begin, can I ask one thing?" He nodded, and she asked, "Do you love me? I know you can't remember, but…Do you have any feelings for me at all, Luke?" He could not lie. "I think I love you, Sarah. And I believe that you love me too. Am I wrong?" "No," she said with a brave little smile. With a sigh, she began to explain. She told him that three and a half years ago, he had walked out on her. "Three years ago!?" ******* Moving to her feet and pacing, Sarah turned her mind back to a time she had spent these past few years trying to forget. Rubbing the back of her neck, she remembered, "We were so happy together for so long. You were making so much money. We had a lovely condo in Atlanta, lots of friends, lots of parties. I was teaching, and you were winning cases left and right. You'd just made full partner at the firm. The only thing we didn't have was the one thing we, or at least I, wanted the most. A baby. Our baby." "Jack?" Luke wondered, questioning how their son could have led to their separation. "No, not Jack," she said, and wiped away a tear. "We were going to name her Amelia, after your mother. We were so happy. You were so excited to have a daughter." Sarah could still remember the day she'd learned she was carrying their first child. She'd raced to Luke's office, unable to wait to share the news. He'd been on the phone, looking stressed when she walked in. He'd motioned for her to have a seat, but she already had her own plans. She'd turned and locked the door, then tossed her overcoat in the chair that he'd suggested she sit in. Now Luke was finally taking an interest, especially when she circled his desk and perched in front of him instead, smiling so big she couldn't help herself. Staring at her, smiling wryly himself then, he ended his call and asked, "What's this all about?" She'd reached for his hand and slid it under the hem of her blouse, placing it flat on her bare tummy. "Feel that?" she'd asked. "Mmm-hmmm," he said, tracing her tummy muscles with fingers that made her tremble. "Feels good." "Well, in a few months, with any luck, you might be able to feel him kick," she'd said, dead-pan. "I am sure I'll be as big as a whale by that point, but it'll be worth it." "Kick?" he'd repeated, confused. Then he got it, and he was so happy about the idea he picked Sarah up and lifted her, whooping in delight. "So it's a boy? You already know?" Luke had asked when he'd calmed down. "No, silly, I don't know for sure, not yet," she'd told him and laughed at his excitement, which was still nothing compared to her own. They'd celebrated by making love, right there on his desk, tenderly and with so much love it still brought tears to Sarah's eyes to remember it. Luke had been so good, rescheduling his workload so he could attend all her doctor's appointments with her. Buying needless gifts once they'd found out they were having a daughter. But then had come the day, that awful day Sarah had tried to block out of her mind ever since. "What happened?" Luke asked now. "What happened to our baby girl?" For days, Sarah had felt some pain in her lower abdomen, but it came and went, never so painful she couldn't stand it. She had made a doctor's appointment because of it. Ironically, that's where they'd been headed when it happened. By then, the pain was so much worse. She had been sitting in the car beside Luke when a sliver of agonizing pain had shot up her belly. The next thing she remembered was waking up in the hospital. Luke had been there, but his eyes had been red as if he'd been crying. She'd had acute appendicitis, which had required an operation to save her life, he'd explained. They'd tried to save the baby too, he'd told her, but their little girl hadn't survived the procedure. There had been a complication. Nothing could have been done. "I almost lost both of you," he'd said, squeezing her hand and getting almost no response. Wiping away a tear at the awful memory, Sarah told Luke now, "I think I hated you a little after that. I thought, if I had been allowed to make my own decisions, they would have never been allowed to operate in the first place. I would have gladly sacrificed myself if our daughter could have lived." "Then you would have both probably died," Luke pointed out rationally, having picked up that much from the story she'd just told. She nodded. "But at the time, I couldn't understand that. And things changed between us after that." She shrugged, remembering, "I sank into a deep depression, and you…you tried to help me through it, but I kept pushing you away. You turned to your work and spent so many hours there. I realized later that you were grieving too, only I was so self-absorbed in my own pain that I couldn't see that at the time." "So that's why we separated?" Luke asked tenderly. "But I don't understand about Jack, and why we would stay apart so long when there's so much love between us." "I'm not finished." Closing her eyes, in shame this time, Sarah recalled how she had tried to climb out of her depression, but still, there had been a rift between her and Luke that had seemed unbridgeable. They made love, but it was rare. They stopped talking, at least to each other. They still socialized with friends, most of whom they knew through the law firm Luke worked at. They'd considered Bree-Anne and Riley to be their closest friends. What a joke, Sarah thought now. Bree-Anne, with her petite, cool blonde looks and British accent, and Riley, who might have been handsome enough on the outside but had the morals of a rat even though he did a good enough job of disguising the fact. With hindsight, she realized Riley had been the one to encourage Luke to take on more cases than he could handle. Then when Luke had grown too busy to spend time with Sarah, it had been both Bree-Anne and Riley who'd volunteered to accompany Luke's wife so she could get away from their suddenly lifeless and cramped condo. "Who were Bree-Anne and Riley?" Luke asked now. Sarah couldn't look at him while she answered. Bree-Anne had been one of Luke's classy assistants, more concerned with climbing up the social ladder than the corporate one. Sarah supposed it must have amused the other woman to play "best friends" with Luke's naïve little wife. It had never occurred to Sarah that Bree-Anne had always had her eye on Luke until afterward, but hindsight was a great thing wasn't it? When Riley, whom Luke had considered to be his best friend, had started subtly hitting on Sarah, telling her how beautiful she was, how fun to be with she was … when he kept reminding her that she was a young, sexy woman fully capable of having other children someday, Bree-Anne had encouraged the flirtation. Sarah had even begun canceling her lunches with Luke that summer and meeting Riley for lunch instead. Riley had been so easy to talk to. So much easier than Luke in those days. Riley would often give her a much-needed hug whenever she broke down and just hold her while she grieved. He'd rub her back and murmur that it was OK to cry. Luke hadn't done that in ages. And Bree-Anne. Bree-Anne had been the one to point out what a terrible husband Luke was becoming, always working and not spending enough time with Sarah. She'd hinted that maybe he was having an affair, but Sarah hadn't believed it. At least, not until Riley had hinted at the same thing on a separate occasion. Oh, how stupid Sarah felt now, to be able to look back and realize the two had been laying an obvious trap for Sarah and Luke. Luke had admitted later that Riley and Bree-Anne had planted the idea that Sarah wanted time away from him so she could heal privately. He hadn't wanted a separation, so he'd given her time to herself, which had been part of his motivation for working longer hours. Longer hours which Bree-Anne, of course, had often volunteered to assist with. Sarah had found out after Luke had walked out on her that most of their "friends" had a bet going as to which one of them could be seduced first. Apparently the odds had been in favor that their marriage wouldn't last six more months. It hadn't. Sarah remembered the night she finally broke her marriage vows all too well. Luke had approached her that afternoon, wanting to talk about possibly having another child. "We'll never forget Amelia, but we can have other children," he'd said gently. "No! I don't want another child. It's too soon, Luke. Don't push me." She had gone back on the pill because she hadn't been able to bear the thought of losing another baby. "What about counseling, Sarah? You promised me you'd think about going back." Sarah had thought about it. She'd had enough of doctors. The lady she'd been seeing after Amelia's death hadn't done a thing to help Sarah with her grief. She'd made Sarah feel even worse, so Sarah had stopped going. She was better off on her own, she'd decided. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 04 "I'm going out tonight with Bree-Anne," had been her only answer, a bit forcefully, as if she were challenging Luke to try and stop her. "We're going to that new club Riley was telling you about. If you can pull yourself away from work, maybe you can join us later?" "Or we could both stay home," Luke had suggested. "We could rent a movie, relax, order takeout. We haven't done that in a while." "You're working on a big case," she reminded him, not wanting to stay at home. She'd grown to need her nights out with Bree-Anne in order to survive. If she was out partying, drinking, she didn't have to remember her pain, the pain she always felt when she was here alone or with her husband. The pain she felt at work, surrounded by little children who left each afternoon with parents who often took them for granted. "Just be careful," had been Luke's reply, sounding weary and defeated. "Call me or someone if you girls get drunk. I don't want you driving home in that condition." "We will. Love you," she'd said automatically with a chaste peck on the cheek as she'd grabbed her keys and purse and left him standing there. When she and Bree-Anne got to the club, Sarah was instantly on the lookout for Riley. He had been a good friend to her these past couple of months, listening patiently when she needed to vent, encouraging her, offering to help in whatever way she needed. She tried talking to Bree-Anne, but the other woman didn't even like kids and often tried to change the subject whenever Sarah brought up her lost child. To Bree-Anne, nothing seemed to matter that didn't include money, sex or a good time. Bree-Anne certainly noticed Sarah's interest in Riley, and, smiling, pointed out his tall form dancing with another woman on the dance floor. Sarah had felt a pang of jealousy before she reminded herself she had no right to feel that way. Riley was Luke's best friend, for god's sake! Even so, she noticed the woman sliding her arms around his neck, running her hands through his silky brown hair, and pressing her hips forward invitingly. "I'm sure he wouldn't mind if you cut in," Bree-Anne had encouraged. "Go on, have a little fun. I'll go get us some drinks." Nervously, Sarah did just that, encouraged even more when Riley spotted her approach and pulled free from the clinging tart, his eyes and smile betraying how happy he was to see her. "Where's Luke?" he bent to ask while bestowing a kiss on the side of her lips. It should have unnerved her, that kiss, but she was used to Riley kissing her on the cheek in greeting and didn't think anything of it. If anything, she'd found it secretly pleasant. "Where do you think he is?" she replied with a little sigh. "The office again?" Riley seemed surprised. "It's Saturday night!" She'd shrugged it off as if she could care less, but she also felt a little guilty for not pushing harder for Luke to come along. Sarah did love him, but she was hurt by so many thoughts…least of all the suspicions she now had about him seeing another woman. Not that she could blame him, really. She had a hard time now responding when he made love to her. She didn't feel very attractive anymore, or loved, and it affected every reaction she had to him. He deserved better than that. She knew it, but couldn't seem to help herself from acting this way. Sarah pushed such thoughts aside and danced the night away with Riley and Bree-Anne and a few other friends who made a late night appearance. She lost count of the number of drinks she'd had, and by the time Bree-Anne came over with some hunk she'd picked up at the bar to say she was leaving, Sarah realized she could not possibly drive home right now. "I should call Luke," she said, reaching for her purse to locate her cell phone. "Hey, don't bother him," Riley said, pulling her close and leaning his head down toward hers so he wouldn't have to shout over the music. "I've only had one drink tonight. I can give you a lift, and Luke can bring you back for your car tomorrow." Oh, how stupid she had been. Sarah closed her eyes and shook her head in self disgust now, remembering how she'd eagerly accepted the offer, not realizing that Riley had probably drank so little on purpose. After all, he needed to have his wits about him in order to pull off the perfect seduction. It had been pouring rain when they left, another nail in Sarah's coffin. She had been the one to suggest to Riley that, rather than get on the freeway just yet in such bad weather, he could stay at their place and sit for a while until it stopped. Luke hadn't made it home yet either, and a quick call to his cell confirmed that he was going to wait out the storm at the office. Riley had turned on the television to monitor the weather while she talked to Luke. "Tell Luke it's a slow-moving storm. It'll be outta here in about an hour," he'd called. She relayed the message and Luke had only responded, "Tell Riley not to leave until it stops. If need be, he can sleep in the guest room tonight." "Be careful, honey," she'd said, slurring a little, and Luke had told her, "Get to bed, sweetheart. Sounds like you've had one too many drinks tonight. Riley can watch TV until I get there." She told Riley what Luke had said, but added, "I'm actually starving. Would you like a snack before I go to bed?" "Yeah, sounds great." Stupid, stupid, stupid! Sarah would never forgive herself for not realizing the compromising position she was getting herself in, especially when she returned from the kitchen with some finger sandwiches and sat close to Riley on the sofa. He was so witty, so charming, he'd easily drawn her into useless chit chat while they munched on the food. She'd even made the comparison when her glance had strayed to a picture of Luke that Riley was a much better looking man than her husband. Luke was handsome in a clean-cut All-American way, sure, but Riley was just plain gorgeous. He had the face of a model and the body to match. She felt a little flattered that he was spending so much time with her when he could easily be spending time with any woman of his choice. Eventually he'd inserted into the conversation such comments as "You know, Luke is such a lucky guy to have a wife like you" and "You're so easy to talk to. I could spend hours just sitting here, staring into your beautiful blue eyes." She'd been flattered, and felt a tug of…something, even though she'd known she shouldn't. Somehow, when Riley had leaned forward to kiss her, she'd let it happen. It had been such a sweet kiss, nothing dirty or elicit about it. It had made her feel alive again, in a way she hadn't in months. When he'd touched her, just a testing kind of touch, Sarah hadn't pulled away. At some point, she did say, "We shouldn't be doing this," but it was half-hearted protest at best. When he'd begun to undress her, she'd hesitated for a few seconds before trying to stop him. Again, it had been a half-hearted attempt, one he'd easily dismissed when he slid his hand between her legs and began to finger her to orgasm. Drunk, lonely, needy, she'd allowed him to seduce her in her own home. She'd barely been aware of what was happening by the time she felt his naked body slide over hers on the couch, and his hard shaft – about the same size as Luke's, if not smaller, she remembered – began pushing inside her. She'd tensed then; she'd had the most horrible sensation sweep over her that she was doing something unforgivable. But then he'd been inside her, kissing her softly and murmuring words of encouragement in her ear. For the first time in a long time, Sarah had felt herself begin to respond. Deep down, she'd known it was due to the forbidden thrill of sleeping with a man she wasn't supposed to. Riley had been a slow lover, making sure she had an orgasm before he allowed himself to have his. When it had been over, he'd looked as dazed as she'd felt. "I didn't know," he'd whispered, pushing her damp hair away from her face. "I didn't realize it would be that good." Oh, sure, Sarah had found pleasure…for about five minutes. But then, even drunk, she'd begun to realize what she'd done. A horrified look had come over her face as she'd suddenly tried to push him off her. "This is wrong," she'd told him. "Please…get off me!" "Sarah, what's wrong?" he'd asked like an idiot. "It was good. I know it was good. Why--?" Dragging her clothes back on, she'd been unable to look him in the eyes as she told Riley, "I think you should leave now." "But the weather—" "Please!" she'd begged, and when she'd looked at him so pitifully, with tears ruining the mascara on her eyes and staining her face with her shame, he'd clenched his jaw and began to dress himself. Without waiting for him to leave, she'd cried herself to the bedroom she shared with her husband. She wanted a shower, knew she needed one to hide her betrayal, but instead she found herself curled up in a ball in the middle of their bed. That's how Luke had found her when he'd finally gotten home. *** Swallowing hard against the lump in his throat, Luke was having a hard time taking in the story Sarah was telling him. He'd hoped it would help the memories come back to him, but he didn't think he wanted these memories. "So that's why we separated?" he asked thickly. "Because you slept with my best friend." Sarah shook her head, looking suddenly very angry. "He wasn't your best friend. He was a liar and a snake." Taking a deep breath, she added, "But I take full responsibility for what I did. If I hadn't been so stubborn, so stupid, it would have never happened. I should have listened to you, not them. I should have gotten help after we lost Amelia. God, I was such a fool." Luke shook his head, feeling dazed and confused. Yes, he was angry, but it almost felt as if he were an outsider, watching a movie about someone else. He didn't like knowing that she'd cheated on him at some point, but as long as it hadn't been an on-going affair, he could forgive her for it. He found it hard to believe, if he'd been the type of man Sarah had led him to believe he'd been, that he hadn't been able to do the same back then. He pointed this out to her, along with the fact that they'd had Jack. Then an unpleasant thought occurred to him. Sarah had slept with another man. Was Jack even his? Sarah looked at him, smiling a little for the first time since she'd begun her story. "That's the thing. You had a hard time with it, but you were willing to work things out. You seemed to understand that I hadn't been in my right mind at the time. You insisted that we get counseling together or you were going to leave me, and it really helped. Talking to you again really helped me." She went on to explain. After a period of mistrust and hurt, things began to get back on track. Luke had suggested during their counseling sessions that he wanted out of the firm, if just so he didn't have to see Riley every day. The other man had begun to show his true colors. In the days following their one night stand, Riley had begun calling Sarah, wanting to make it an ongoing affair. He'd claimed he was falling in love with her. When she'd refused, he'd begun taunting Luke with the fact he'd bedded Luke's wife. He'd even told Luke that he would win Sarah over eventually, so Luke might as well give up and divorce her while he still had some pride left. The situation had gotten so bad, Luke had even talked to one of the senior partners about Riley's taunts. He'd found no sympathy there at all, he'd told Sarah, especially since Riley's grandfather had founded the firm and still held a great deal of influence over the remaining partners. Seeing that he had no real friends to turn to, Luke had talked about the possibility of a complete career change, although he hadn't been at all certain what he could land a job at. "I feel like a damn vampire in this profession. Who am I really helping anyway?" he'd vented during one session. Luke and Sarah agreed to get away on vacation as a sort of second honeymoon, hoping to recapture the intimacy she'd shattered with her one-night stand. Luke had been patient and understanding, giving her time to forgive herself while he struggled with his own demons. They'd made love for the first time since her adultery. They'd spent countless hours talking and trying to repair their relationship. "When we came home, I thought things were looking up," she'd said. "We put the condo up for sale and were planning to move to a house. Then one day, you just didn't come home. I thought something had happened to you." Sarah had kept herself together long enough to file a missing persons report when enough time had passed, and not even a day later, she had gotten the call. It was Luke, calling to tell her he wasn't coming back. He'd thought things through and realized they were better off getting a divorce, he'd said. "I'll get another lawyer to draw up some papers. You should call Dan Harvey at Holderman's firm. He's a good guy and will be able to represent you fairly." When he'd wished her well in a calm, unaffected voice, she'd begged to know why. Why was he doing this? Why now? His only answer had been a cryptic, "You know why. I may be a lot of things, but I'm not a fool. Goodbye Sarah." *** It was hard to remember what she'd gone through in the months following that phone call, Sarah thought to herself now. She hadn't blamed Luke for leaving her. A part of her had been expecting it since she'd lost the baby, even before her indiscretion with Riley. A large part of her still felt she had deserved it, even now. Because of that, she hadn't even tried to find Luke at first. She'd called Dan Harvey and asked him to represent her in the divorce, making it clear she didn't want anything from Luke that he didn't want to give. She'd waited a few weeks for the papers to arrive, but nothing had happened. Dan had finally asked Sarah if she wanted to start the divorce proceedings herself, but she'd firmly replied, "No. Let's see what Luke does first, OK?" What Luke had done was close their joint bank account and transfer a nice chunk of the money into one just for her. He'd made sure she still had her own savings and had given her the money they'd earned from the sale of the condo. When she'd found that out, Sarah had tried to call him on his cell phone, only to find it was no longer in service. Since she'd had no idea where to go, she'd packed her stuff and rented a small apartment, making sure she kept their old phone number in case Luke tried to contact her. She'd wondered what to do with his things since he hadn't made an effort to pick them up. She had notified Dan and had those things put in storage for when he did. Instead of hearing from Luke, she'd heard from Riley, who had continued to harass her with phone calls. On one message he'd left, Riley had informed her that Luke had mailed in his resignation and left the firm. "It's just a matter of time until the divorce is complete," he'd feigned sympathy. "Luke doesn't know what he's giving up. Just remember, if you ever need someone to talk to, I'll be here." Bastard. Sarah had finally had to talk to Dan about the possibility of getting a restraining order against the other man when Riley had turned up at her apartment one night and tried to force his way inside. Fortunately, one of her neighbors had come to her aid and threatened to call the police if Riley didn't leave. She remembered Dan's response to that news all too well. "Honestly, Sarah. I've known Riley for years, almost as long as I've known Luke. He's a bit of a playboy, so I have a hard time seeing him fixated on one woman. Are you sure you just aren't misunderstanding the situation?" Dan had said. "He was Luke's friend. He's probably just trying to make sure you're getting along OK." Damn, she had thought, realizing she was getting no sympathy from him and too ashamed to tell him that Riley was the reason Luke had left her. She'd decided then and there to relieve him of his services. When Luke's lawyer finally contacted her, she would just see about getting other representation, she had decided. Someone far removed from the situation and who would be on her side. Almost a month after Luke had left her, Sarah was in real funk. She was losing weight and generally felt like hell. She had a hard time concentrating at school and knew she wasn't helping her students one bit. She considered quitting, moving back in with her parents if they'd have her, and at the worst times, she considered killing herself. She might have done it, too, if it hadn't been for fate stepping in and giving her a reason to live again. She came down with what she thought was a bug she couldn't seem to shake until the doctor had told her, "Congratulations, Sarah. You're going to have a baby in about six months, I'd guess." A baby. She could hardly believe it! She had been on the pill ever since she'd lost Amelia and hadn't given a single thought to the idea that she might have conceived again. At first she had been scared and apprehensive. What if she lost this baby too? A part of her had worried that Riley could have been the father. The dates the doctor had given made it a slight possibility. She'd been on the pill though. The father was Luke. She believed that in her heart – believed it so much she was able to ignore any doubts to the contrary. That's when she had realized that while she no longer had Luke, she at least had a part of him she would always be able to love, something that would bind them forever. She'd felt her first spark of hope in months! Once she told Luke this news, he might be willing to give her another chance! Finding Luke by that point had been like finding a needle in a haystack. It had taken most of her savings to hire a private investigator. All the man had been able to find out was that Luke had withdrawn $20,000 cash out of his bank account and purchased an airline ticket to Austin, Texas a few days after his last phone call to Sarah. Beyond that, there was no trace of him. He hadn't used his credit cards. He hadn't signed up for a new phone number anywhere. His email account wasn't even being checked. It was as if he'd simply vanished from the face of the planet. With Riley's attention becoming more threatening, Sarah now had two people to consider. As much as she hated doing so because Luke wouldn't know how to find her, she had decided to leave Atlanta and go somewhere Riley couldn't find her either. Somewhere she could start fresh and build a secure home for her child. She couldn't afford to move too far, not yet. That's when she had found this house in this small town, near a school she would love teaching at. But Sarah wasn't stupid. She knew all Riley would have to do to find her was to use the resources at his disposal. She worried he could easily find her name on the deed of her new house if he searched public records. She had contacted her parents, told them she was pregnant, that she was being harassed, and had begged her father to put his name on the deed and utility bills instead. "I swear I have the money. All you have to do is loan me your name. Please?" Amazingly, her father had agreed with little fuss. When her mother had found out Sarah was alone and pregnant, a change had come over both her parents. They might have been lousy as parents, but they didn't seem to mind being grandparents, especially once they found out Sarah was expecting a boy. Having them show some interest in her again had eased some of Sarah's loneliness, but not her loneliness without Luke. Sarah had feared Luke wouldn't know how to contact her if he ever came looking, but she couldn't trust anyone, not even Dan apparently, with her new address. Still, she had tried in her own ways to find him…to let him know where she was. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 04 Snapping back to the present, Sarah glanced at Luke to gauge his reaction so far. There was more, so much more she wanted to explain. She'd had to get very resourceful in searching for Luke while hiding from Riley and all of their old friends. Would showing Luke what she'd done convince him how much she'd loved him, even then? Poor Luke. He looked pole-axed. With a heavy sigh, he raked back the hair from his face and Sarah thought to herself What a fool I was to ever think Riley was better looking. "That's quite a story," Luke admitted a bit warily. "Whatever happened to Riley? Did he finally leave you alone?" She shrugged. "I thought he had. But several months ago, I began getting hang-up calls. I don't have caller ID, so I don't know for sure. I just had this feeling it could be him. And then last week—" "The package," he remembered. She hadn't even opened it. "How did you—?" She stared at him in amazement. "Yes, I got a package. I threw it away." "Why? How did you even know it was from him or that it contained something bad?" Pacing now, she admitted, "I don't know for sure that it contained something bad, but before I left Atlanta, he began sending me packages like that. Lingerie I wouldn't even wear for you, let alone him. Sex toys. Dirty things. Accompanied by dirty suggestions about what he wanted to do with me and those things. I never forgot the handwriting or address. That's how I know it was from him the other day." "He's stalking you," Luke decided. "You should have kept it as evidence." "I don't want any trouble," Sarah argued. "I don't know why he started up again, or how he found me. I just want to forget about Riley. Luke?" she asked, sending him a pleading look. "Aren't you going to say anything? Do you hate me now?" He didn't immediately answer. His jaw tightened as if he were clenching it, and his eyes had a faraway look that suggested he was thinking hard, maybe a little angry. He moved to his feet and walked over to the window. Finally, he said in a strange voice, "I'm still taking it all in." He hated her. Sarah had expected it, but that didn't soften the blow of the pain she suddenly felt, especially when he demanded, "And you're sure Jack is mine? No chance that he's Riley's?" "I'm positive," she told him. Her son looked too much like Luke to doubt it now. "I'd like to have tests done to prove it, if you don't mind." He said it so calmly it unnerved her. "You haven't even met Jack yet," she thought aloud. "And that's my fault?" he returned harshly. Oh yes, he was definitely angry. She recognized that tone and the taut way he was holding his shoulders. He'd looked that way, sounded just like that the night he'd discovered that she'd slept with Riley. Luke had so rarely lost his temper that when he did, it was a little bit frightening. What would she do if, God forbid, the tests proved that Riley was the father? She knew it was a long shot, but…what if? What if Luke left her again, for good this time? The very thought plunged ice needles down her back. She had to make him see that she loved him, that Jack already loved him too, that they could be a family. After today's events she didn't have much hope. Worse, she didn't have a clue how to win Luke back after this. She supposed she'd survived before without him, and she could do it again. The point was, she didn't want to. She'd never wanted anything or anyone more than for Luke to be a part of their family. With a shake of his head, Luke looked at his wrist and declared, "We'd better get going. We'll miss our appointment with the counselor." He said it calmly, and the flash of anger he'd displayed seemed to have passed as quickly as it came. "The counselor?" "Our appointment is at 1:30," he reminded her. She was a little surprised he still wanted to go with her, but she wasn't about to question it. She simply breathed a sigh of relief and said, "OK. Let me grab my purse." Sarah just hoped this counselor was a good one. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 05 Buffy woke up the next day and turned to reach out for Angel, but he wasn't there. She wondered where he gone off too. "Angel?" She heard no response. She took the sheet and wrapped it around her body and walked out of the bedroom and spotted Angel tipping the bellboy. Buffy quietly made her way tiptoeing and wrapped her arms around his waist. "Morning," she said kissing his bare back. He pulled from behind and looked at her. "Love the outfit. Is it the latest fashion craze?" "What can I say? I'm a trendsetter. Besides I couldn't find my clothes," she said smiling. "You are something. Well I was thinking that now that you're up we could have breakfast. We didn't quite make it to dinner last night," he said grinning. "I couldn't help it. I wanted dessert before dinner and it was worth it," she said kissing his chest and then pulled his head for a kiss. He smiled at her. "Let's eat." They both sat down and ate. From time to time Buffy would let her foot slide up and down to cause Angel look at her. "Buffy, stop that," he said smiling because he couldn't stand to her mad at her. "Oh you mean this," she said repeating the same action. "Yes." ~*~*~*~*~* Buffy made it to her house that night to wish her friends goodbye. She really wanted to spend more time with them, but she had to see Angel. Angel had become an addiction for her. She just couldn't let a week go by with seeing him. He just made her feel things that no other man had. "Buffy, it was great seeing you again. You come to L.A. and I'll introduce you to my boss," Willow said cheerfully. "Sure thing Willow. I figure that McKeon Industries will help me find out with my business," she after hugging her friend. "Oh and Buffy we'll show you all the hot spots in L.A.," Xander added. "Sure thing Xand. Before I head to L.A. I'll call and then we'll meet up. Oh, and this time we'll hang out like old times." "Nothing beats Sunnydale Cinema or The Bronze. We'll come back party and go to the movies," Xander said dancing. Buffy and Willow looked at each other and laughed. ~*~*~*~*~* Angel finished dropping off both Willow and Xander and decided to head home. He knew for sure that he couldn't avoid Darla as much as he'd like to. She was a part of his life just like she was a part of his. He just didn't know how much longer he could live with a woman that he never loved. Angel entered the house, went straight upstairs to his bedroom and started to change. As he was taking off his clothes, Darla was watching the display before her. The sight of his body always brought chills down to her spine. 'No matter how many time I see him with is clothes on, he always looks better without them.' Angel felt that he was being looked at. "Darla, what do you want?" She made her way to the bedroom and wrapped her arms around his waist. Angel flinched at the contact. "Your parents called today. They invited us to dinner this Saturday." 'Saturday. Damn! I was hoping to see Buffy.' "Sure that'd be great." 'You never know what may happen.' ~*~*~*~*~* Buffy was at her office figuring out what would be the latest designs for her lingerie line. She figured that if she sketched a few designs and looked at the drawings from the previous week that Angel would be out of her mind temporarily. Though as she was looking at the designs before her she couldn't stop thinking about Angel. She was thinking what way she could surprise Angel in L.A. "I have got to stop thinking about him. I have to concentrate on these designs and get through this week. Oh, but I can't stop thinking about those brown eyes and that beautiful smile. I'm definitely going to need a cold shower tonight." "Hey B. So you still are thinking about Angel?" "Huh?" "Don't huh me. I see it in your eyes. You're thinking about Angel aren't you?" "Yeah," she said with a half smile. "So it's that good huh?" "Faith! It's not like that." "So when you're with him you don't want to tear off his clothes and ride him like cowboy," Faith said with a huge grin. Buffy had to think rationally before answering. "Okay maybe I do. But that's not all. He's nice and he makes me feel safe," she said smiling. "Yeah, that's all nice. But the fact of the matter is he's married. He'll never be yours. Don't out your hopes up." "I'm not. I know he's married." "I just don't want your feelings to hurt." "I know." Though in the back of her mind she didn't know that is the next time they have sex she might feel something more. ~*~*~*~*~* It was Friday and Buffy decided that this weekend she'd hangout with Willow and Xander. Although her ulterior motive was to finally see Angel in L.A. and she figured that a surprise would be an order. As Buffy slipped on her beige trench coat dress that reached mid thigh, with black high thigh stockings and matching shoes she looked herself over the mirror making any necessary adjustments. "Well if this outfit doesn't surprise him I don't know what will." She finished packing her clothes in her over night bag, left Faith a note and headed out the door. ~*~*~*~*~* Angel was sitting in his chair looking at the files before him with the view of Los Angeles right behind him. He was having a hard time concentrating because he wondered what reason could he give Buffy for breaking their plans. He enjoyed their moments even if it is just mainly sex, but was it starting to become more than that. 'What am I going to tell her? I know she'll be disappointed.' All the while Angel was contemplating his thoughts Buffy was outside talking to secretary Karin. "Good Afternoon. I'm here to see Mr. McKeon." "Okay. Just wait one moment while I tell him that you're here." "Thanks." Karin was observing Buffy's outfit and noticed she sure dressed sexy for an appointment with her boss. 'If I knew any better I'd say that she's his mistress.' "Mr. McKeon will see you now." "Thank you." ~*~*~*~*~* Angel was waiting for his new potential client to step in. He figured after about an hour or so when things were wrapped he'd call Buffy. His back was towards the door so when he heard his client come in he swiveled his chair, looked up and was surprised to see who was staring before him. "Buffy." "That'd be me." She then locked the door and walked towards him. "What are you doing here? I'm supposed to have a client coming in." "Nice to see you too. I am your client. I'm here on business," she walking closer to him and sat on his chair straddling his hips. His hands went automatically around her waist. Angel had been checking her out since she stepped into his office. Her trench coat dress just covered the right amount of skin leaving her long legs fully exposed. He wondered if she had anything on underneath. Though now the thought now entering in his mind started to make him highly aroused. "Business huh? Well I've never conducted business this way before," he said smiling. "Well I figure that when I'm conducting a business matter that I should get to know the owner on a one to one basis. Oh, and I'd like to know what kind of benefits I'll be getting in return," she said whispering in his ear and then nipped his earlobe. He shuddered after hearing those last words because he definitely knew that business wasn't on her mind. Her lips kissed along his jaw until she reached her destination, which were his lips. As the kiss grew deeper, Buffy placed her fingers through his hair while his hands pulled her body even closer to his not leaving any space between them. "Buffy, we can't do this here." "Yes, we can. I came here on business." "Buffy, you know perfectly well that…" She silenced him with another kiss while her hand wandered down to his pants. "Wait! Let me talk to my secretary first. Karin could you hold all my calls and if my wife calls tell her that I'm out." "Sure thing Mr. McKeon." Angel hung up the phone and looked at Buffy. "Okay. Now I'm ready." Buffy smiled and then proceeded to move her hand back down on his pants while Angel pulled her in his embrace and kissed her. As the kissing between them intensified Buffy unbuckled his pants then button and finally the zipper. She crept her tiny fingers inside the slit of his boxers feeling the soft skin of his erection. "Hmm," he hissed with his brown eyes full of lust. "I guess you like it then." His only response was just a smile. He couldn't form any coherent words because she just someone knew what buttons to push. She continued stroking him looking intently into those brown eyes just loving how much she could control him. It was liberating. Angel moved his hands to from her waist to the belt of dress untied revealing a lacy flesh tone bra with bikini held together by two pieces of string at each end of her hip. He slid her dress off her shoulders letting it fall to the ground exposing her body before him. Angel then slowly untied the stings on each on each side of her hips and his lips were kissing her hips from left to right. He took the lacy material and tossed it aside. "I guess we should finalize this business agreement," she said stroking his erection. "Uh huh." She took his erection in her hand and placed it inside her opening. They both hissed at the contact. Angel removed his hands from her hips and unhooked her bra sliding it off her shoulders exposing her bare breasts. As his hands gently cupped her breasts massaging them between his fingers her hands held onto the armrest of his chair for support. "Oh, More Angel," she said moaning. His hands kept on squeezing her breasts while she kept rocking back and forth while she lowered head and captured her lips into a deep kiss. She let her tongue part his lips and went right to his tongue. As the kissing intensified between both lovers his hands were still on her breasts as her hands gripped on tightly on the armrest. Her lips left his kissing his jaw, then down to the side of his neck sucking on the exposed skin. "Hmm," he moaned. His hands left her breasts sliding his fingers over to her bare back caressing her. "Oh," she moaned. She squeezed her inner muscles on his throbbing erection while he jerked his hips upward filling himself deepen inside of her. She knew that at any moment her orgasm was fast approaching, but she wanted to build it up even more before finally coming. Angel just couldn't contain himself any longer. The way Buffy had such control on him was just amazing. It just seemed that every time they were having sex that it was getting better and better. "Oh, Buffy," he groaned out loud. He made one final movement with his hips as Buffy squeezed her inner loins onto his hard shaft and they both orgasm. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 05 Luke finished hammering the swing set and stood back to admire the finished project. He'd gone out yesterday, a case of last minute nerves, and bought this crazy concoction to give him something to do and as a welcome home gift to his son. His son. A part of him held back from the idea, just as he'd been holding back from Sarah since she'd told him the truth. He'd still been sleeping in the guest bedroom alone, and any attempt she made to discuss the past had been met with a steely resistance on his part. It wasn't that he hated her. He hated this whole situation. He hated that he couldn't remember why he had left so long ago when Sarah had been certain they were on the right path to reconciliation. He hated that he didn't know where he'd been, or who he'd been with. He hated that Riley, a man he didn't know, was stalking Sarah. Yeah, he hated a lot of things, but he didn't hate her. He'd tried though. Try as hard as he might, he just couldn't. He kept thinking about her situation and the choices she'd made since he'd left. Hell, he even admired her for some of them. People made mistakes everyday, and they learned from them. Luke also wanted to believe Jack was without a doubt his son, and he wanted to believe they would turn into one big, happy family when the boy finally came home. But what if Jack didn't like him? What if Sarah only wanted Luke around so her kid would have a dad? Shaking his head of the thoughts, he collected his tools and hurried inside to clean up. Sarah had gone to the airport alone to pick up the boy and to see her parents off on the return flight. She'd asked Luke to go with her, but he had refused, more out of nerves than anything. He didn't think he could face meeting her parents, strangers to him, on the same day he first met his son. Their therapist had advised him not to do anything he didn't feel comfortable doing, so Sarah hadn't pushed the issue. He was sitting watching TV when he heard them drive up. The next thing he knew, the door was being flung open and a little tornado was barreling straight for him! The boy was talking a mile a minute, saying something Luke could hardly understand, something about someone named Dorie and how glad he was to meet his daddy. He threw himself at Luke, hugging Luke's leg with a fierceness that apparently surprised even Sarah. She had followed and was watching the scene unfold from the doorway. "Dorie?" Luke repeated helplessly, looking at Sarah. She actually covered her mouth and laughed! "Mommy said you're just like Dorie and can't remember anything," the boy explained in an energetic rush, pulling back to hold out a stuffed animal of some sort. "See my elephant? Grandma got it at the airport for me. I also got a giraffe and a lion. They're in my bags." "Cool," was all Luke could say. "Yeah. Hey, did you fix up our house? It looks different," Jack observed, then grabbed hold of Luke's hand and tugged him toward his room without giving Luke a chance to reply. "C'mon, Daddy. Wanna see my room? I got lots a stuff. Do you like the Power Rangers?" "Power Rangers?" What on earth? "Jack," Sarah called from behind them. "Give your father time to respond." "Gotta show Daddy my room!" he called back, refusing to pause from his mission. Luke just sent Sarah a look that asked her not to interfere. Luke was seated on the floor and shown at least a hundred toys, which all had names he would never be able to remember, while Jack chatted a-mile-a-minute in his barely understandable three-year-old voice. Sarah stood in the doorway the whole time, alternately crying and laughing at the picture they made. Finally, Jack stopped long enough for Luke to say with a smile, "You haven't even given me a chance to show you your surprise!" The boy, of course, loved the swing set and excitedly went straight for it when he saw it, forgetting all about his new "Daddy" for the moment. Standing back to watch, Luke felt Sarah slip her hand in his. "He's something, isn't he?" "He's wonderful," Luke said, feeling his chest swell with pride. "He just accepted me, just like that. I thought..." "You thought it would be awkward," she finished for him, squeezing his hand. "I've told him about you. His whole life, he's known about you. You weren't as big a surprise to him as he was to you." "Daddy! Look!" Jack yelled as he kicked his feet and set himself flying through the air on a swing seat. Squeezing her hand back, Luke whispered emotionally, "Thank you for that. He's a great little boy." Still, he wondered... "Who's Dorie?" and Sarah laughed. "Don't worry," she replied with a smile. "I'm sure Jack will make you watch 'Finding Nemo' a thousand times before the week is over. I just explained your condition to him on his level, in a way I knew he'd understand. You have problems with your memory, just like a character in his favorite movie." He nodded and realized that she must make a great teacher. Luke was amazed at how well-adjusted the boy was to the whole situation as the three of them spent the rest of the day catching up. A couple of times Jack asked why had Luke been gone so long? Why did he never write or call? Before Luke could answer, Sarah would say, "Remember what I've always told you? Sometimes mommies and daddies don't always live together, sweetheart." "Do we live together now?" Swallowing hard, Sarah just nodded, "For now, yes." Mrs. Nash came over for a special dinner and cried buckets at having Jack home again. She explained to Luke that she looked after the little boy when Sarah worked. "He keeps me from being so lonely," she confided. "Whenever she sends him to visit his grandparents, it almost kills me. It makes me jealous that I'm not his grandmother." "I bet Jack thinks of you as a grandmother," Luke tried to reassure her. She waved it away. "Oh, posh. It's not the same." Luke thought for a second. "Well, I don't have a mother or father living. What do you say? Would you like to be Jack's honorary grandma on my side?" Edna's eyes welled up with happy tears as she looked at Luke long and hard for a minute. Reaching up, she framed his face with her hands and said, "Bless you, Luke Johnston. I understand now why Sarah loves you so much. You're a good, decent human being. It shows in your eyes." "My eyes?" he laughed, feeling a little embarrassed by the assessment. "Oh yes," she said, lowering her hands. "And that handsome face. If I were only a few years younger, I'd give Sarah a run for her money!" He laughed at that too. After taking Jack outside to toss around a ball, Luke told the boy that he could call Mrs. Nash "Grandma" if he wanted. He was a little surprised when Jack said no, and as best as Luke could decipher: "That's what I call Grandma. Scotty has two grandmas, and he calls one Nanna. Can I call Mrs. Nash that?" "Why don't you ask her and see?" Edna's eyes twinkled with merriment as Jack asked the simple question, and she shot Luke a look of thanks as she scooped the boy up and declared that she would love to be called Nanna! Sarah was carrying some food to the table and saw the look that passed between her neighbor and her husband. She sent Luke a watery smile of her own, looking at him as if he were some kind of knight in shining armor. Feeling quite uncomfortable by that look, Luke decided to call it a night. He had a lot to think about. He needed time alone. When Jack asked Luke to read him a bedtime story first, Luke held firm and said, "Not tonight, sport. Tomorrow night, OK?" Jack wasn't too happy with that plan, but Luke left Sarah to deal with the fallout. Instead of heading to his room, however, he found himself outside, soothed by the calmness of the moonlight, the chirping crickets and the privacy the night provided. With a sigh, he sat in one of the porch chairs and just stared out into the backyard where the outline of Jack's new swing set stood. He could hear Sarah and Jack moving around inside, talking as she tried to get their son settled for the night. Luke knew he should probably stop questioning Jack's paternity and accept the kid as his own regardless. He'd only known him one day and he was already in love with the brat. And Sarah, despite her faults, would make him a good wife. If he had any sense, he would just bury the past here and now and start trying to concentrate on the future. Concentrate on making a family. Still...he just couldn't escape the feeling that there was something he needed to know. Many times he'd felt optimistic his memories were returning because he could sense some stray thought teasing the edge of his mind. It was a feeling that was only stronger now that he'd met Jack. Maybe it was intuition. Instinct. Memory? Whatever. He knew there was something in his past, something maybe even Sarah wasn't aware of, that he needed to remember, for all their sakes. The problem was, he didn't know what the hell to do about it. *** Sarah realized Luke wasn't resting when, after much inner debate, she opened the door to the guest room to peek inside. She'd finally gotten Jack settled for the night, but nearly an hour later, she couldn't seem to get herself settled. She missed Luke. She wanted him back in her bed, back in her life where he belonged. How much longer would she have to pay for her past mistakes? Well, she would only take so much, even from Luke. She took a deep breath and decided to confront him before Jack got any more involved with a man who might not be around very long. If it was just her, maybe she could put up with the constant not knowing. But Jack was her main priority. She might have half-forgotten that fact these past few months, but she wouldn't do it again. The sooner she pointed that out to Luke, and made herself remember it, the better. Luke wasn't to be found in the rest of the house, and she felt a moment's panic that he'd left her again. Frantic, she decided to check outside. She almost missed him, sitting quietly there in his jeans and dark shirt. As crazy as it sounded, she sensed him there before she saw him. With a sigh of relief, she smiled wryly at her reaction. It had always been sort of eerie the way she and Luke sometimes just "felt" each other. "Everything OK?" he asked softly, and she nodded without realizing he probably couldn't see her response. He was such a good man, even now. He always had been. Letting her eyes adjust to the darkness, she wondered what she could do to make him realize how much she loved him for that. Without saying a word, she walked over to where he sat. She knew at least one way she could show him. Talking could wait, if just for another hour or two. If she were going to lay down the law, she knew she might lose him again. First, she needed to make one last memory, just in case. Gently, she lowered herself to her knees and sidled up between his thighs, letting her hands slide across his firm thighs suggestively. Leaning forward, she pressed an openmouthed kiss to his chest, feeling the fabric of his shirt against her tongue as she pushed it forward. His sharp gasp of surprise was sweet music to her ears. When she felt his hand lift up and his fingers slide into her hair, she worried that he was going to pull her away. Instead, his thumb gently stroked against the fullness of her bottom lip and tilted her head up toward his. His mouth took hers, firmly staking its claim. Oh god, he was a great kisser. Maybe better now than she remembered. Her arms slid around his waist and explored the muscles that were new too. The feel of his hard chest against her aroused nipples, even though they were both dressed, made her moan and grow wet where it really counted. She reminded herself she hadn't meant to focus on her own pleasure here. She wanted to drive him crazy with lust, not the other way around. Pulling back, she slid her hands along the top of his thighs, feeling how tense his muscles had become beneath her caress. Sliding upward, her fingers met at his zipper. Carefully she tugged it down. "Sarah don't," he protested, and grabbed her hands before they could find what they were searching for. She almost ignored him and kept on. He was obviously hard as a rock beneath his jeans. She could feel him. Then again, she supposed any man would respond that way to any woman who felt him up. It didn't necessarily mean Luke wanted her. "I'm sorry," she whispered and made to move away from him. "Wait," he bit out and stopped her. "Just wait a second." "Why?" "We need to talk." He let go of her. "Before you came out here, I made a decision you need to know about." "Oh?" Oh god, he was going to leave. She could feel it. Instead, he surprised her by asking, "When do you start work again?" "A week and a half. Why?" She thought she saw him nod, and then he said, "Edna told me that if we ever need it, we can borrow her husband's old truck. Tomorrow morning, I'm going to ask her if I can borrow it until the end of the week so I can head to Atlanta." "Atlanta! Luke, what...?" "There are questions I have now that you can't answer," he explained. "Plus, I'd like to pay a visit to my old friend Riley. If we're going to start our marriage over again, I want him to damn well be aware of it." She didn't know what to say. Until his comment about them starting their marriage over again, she'd been prepared to beg him not to go. But that...that had thrown her for a loop. "I'll need you to tell me where to find him," Luke continued. "And I'd like the name of the private investigator you hired to find me. He might be able to provide more information than what he told you. You never know. I'll try not to be gone more than a couple of days. Will you and Jack be OK with that idea?" "As long as you come back, we will." "I will. This is just something I have to do," he told her, and sighed loudly. "I'm just afraid," she admitted. "What if you find out something that makes you want to leave me again? I'm still not even sure why you changed your mind the first time." "Nothing I find out will change the person I am now," he promised. "And the man I am now wants to be your husband and Jack's father. OK?" "What about the paternity test?" "I've changed my mind," he said, and she felt a tear escape her control, especially when he added, "I love you, Sarah. And I already love that kid, so I guess that makes him mine, doesn't it?" She figured he probably believed that, but she didn't. If he regained his memories, he might remember another woman he had grown to love. He might remember so many things that could make him easily change his mind. She threw her arms around him and squeezed the life out of him. She still had her doubts. Especially if Luke began to regain his memories and suddenly remembered why he had given up on their marriage. She'd searched her mind a million times, trying to remember what she'd said or done to make him finally give up, to no avail. "What about tonight?" she heard herself ask. "What about it?" "Are you going to sleep in the spare room?" She rubbed his arousal through the denim. "Or can I have one more memory, in case—" She buried her face in his shoulder, embarrassed that she'd actually spoken her thoughts out loud. Might as well go for broke, she decided. She finished the job she'd started earlier. She lowered his zipper and slipped her hand inside his jeans. "Sarah," he groaned. Her thumb ran over the tip of him, and when he shivered in reaction, she did it again. "We shouldn't do this out here. What about Jack?" he asked. "I want you inside me," she said. "Here, our room, it doesn't matter. Jack is down for the night. He's a heavy sleeper. I wouldn't risk him walking in on us if I wasn't sure of that." His lips found hers, hungrily, then desperately, as she continued to touch him and bring him to the edge with just the skillful caress of her fingertips. She wanted to undress him, but he was too impatient. Pushing her away, he began to undress her instead – at least partially. He only tugged her t-shirt over her head and then pushed her shorts and panties down her legs, leaving her standing there in front of God and anyone else who cared to look in only her bra. She reached for him too, but he stilled her hands, imprisoning them behind her back. His mouth caressed her lips, her neck, her breasts while all she could do was enjoy the pleasure he was giving her. "Oh, Luke," she breathed and moaned more than once. She felt him lift her, and gently, he laid her on the small patio table by the door. Sarah was floating now. Her arms went up and around Luke's neck. She began to run her fingers through his hair as Luke, in return, kissed his way down her front, stopping to pay special attention to her belly button. She responded by arching her back and moaning. She was very hot now. When his right hand slid up her left leg from her knee, ending on her hip, her knees quivered, and she spread her legs, wider and wider. She knew he would be between them in a matter of seconds, and that's exactly what she wanted. She was now nearly horizontal, with her legs spread wide, both feet on the ground, and Luke easily slid into place. She hadn't even realized he'd pushed his jeans out of the way until she felt him prodding at her entrance. "Oh Luke, please, please, please." She whispered to her lover. She shivered and groaned, and put both hands on his head. She pulled his face to hers and they kissed for a long time as his hand slid up toward her pussy to make sure she was ready for him. She was so wet that his hand was instantly between her lips. He dragged his fingers across her entrance, and then he reached for his cock and guided it into place. She let out a gasp and groaned, "God, yes, Luke, push inside me. Just like that." She heard herself make little sobbing noises as he began to move inside her, steady and slow. She knew Jack would sleep through a hurricane, but she still tried to be quiet. She used her muscles to pull on Luke's cock and he pushed back. Finally, grunting in her ear, he pushed hard, and she put both hands on the back of his ass, and pushed up with her pussy. He rested all the way in her now, and then froze in place. He didn't move for a full minute. "What's wrong?" she said. Luke didn't say anything. He seemed to be struggling for control, so she didn't move. Finally, he started pulling back slowly, causing her to whisper, "Oooohhh, I love you. I'm so full. Please Luke, please make love to me." After several minutes of rocking back and forth, Sarah began panting. On the next stroke, Luke stopped again and then he began to rotate his hips. "Oh, Unh...Oooh." After a few more minutes of this, Sarah began to come. Luke finally went back to stroking his cock inside her, but with fast hard strokes. He was grunting, trying to make it last, but she was ready for him to take his pleasure. Wrapping her leg around him, she leaned up and whispered in his ear, "Come inside me, baby. Please. I love you so much." That was all Luke could take, and she felt him tense, then hold tight against her as he groaned and let himself go. It was a wonderful feeling, and she prayed it was one she'd feel again and again. "Just come back to us," she whispered in his ear, and prayed that he would. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 06 Angel was the first to wake up and realized that Buffy was completely nude and realized that she might be cold when she got up. So he slowly moved them both towards his desk and leaned Buffy over so he could take off his jacket. He pulled Buffy in his embrace and placed the jacket on her. His fingers started caressing her golden locks feeling how soft they were. ‘I care about you Buffy, but I don’t know if more will ever come out of it. All that I know is that no matter what happens between us I want that we spend enough time with one another.’ Buffy felt an embrace around her body and also something on her body. It just felt warm even though her legs were cold. She then remembered that she came to visit Angel for a business matter. Though they never settles to an agreement. She lifted her head and spotted Angel staring down at her. “Hi,” she said softly and then kissed him. “Hi right back at you. Sleep well?” he asked smiling. “Uh huh.” Buffy also realized that he was still inside her body and smiled at the thought. “Oh just to let you know I’ve decided that your company can represent mine. I just happen to like that benefits that your company gives to its clients,” she said smiling. Angel laughed at her response. “Do you do this to all your female clientele. Or just me?” “Just you. Only you Miss Summers,” she said and captured her lips into a kiss and caressed her thigh. “That’s good to know.” She then rose herself from his bo0dy and started to get dress. As she was putting her underwear on Angel just couldn’t keep his brown eyes off the curves of her body. “I see you staring at me,” she said turning to face him. “I can’t help but be distracted by such beauty.” “Sweet talker.” They both finished fixing their clothes. “I better be going.” “No! Don’t go. I thought I could take you to lunch.” “I can’t. Besides I’m seeing you tomorrow.” “Well speaking of tomorrow something came up.” “Oh.” ‘Great his wife wants to spend more time with him.’ “My parents invited Darla and I for dinner.” “Oh, it’s okay if it’s your parents. I’ll see you next week then.” “No! I want you there.” “Don’t you think that it’d be strange for your mistress to these with your wife and parents,” she said seriously. “I know that, but if you bring Willow and Xander with you it’s be so suspicious.” “How do you about them?” “They work for me. That’s why I wasn’t upset about you being with them.” “Why you.” She then hit his chest. He caught her hand. “You coming tomorrow night?” He asked her kissing her hand. “I wouldn’t miss it for the world,” she said smiling wickedly. ‘Oh, Angel has no idea what’s coming to him tomorrow night.’ ~*~*~*~*~* Darla made believe around Angel that she wanted him. Well she did, but apparently Angel slept with her once or twice and she wondered how he could put up without having sex. She on the other hand needed to have sex and very often. So about two to six months into their marriage she started to have an affair on Angel with Lindsay McDonald. He was no Angel, but he gave her what she wanted. Sex. “Darla when are you planning to leave Angel McKeon so we can spend our life together?” “I can’t leave Angel yet Lindsay. He and I are married and we have to keep our family business going. I know that he’s screwing behind my back, but I can’t place it yet. Though I don’t know if he’s been doing it for the past two years though.” “Oh, Darla who cares if he does. Just divorce him already.” “Don’t worry about it,” she said holding him while they were in his bed. ~*~*~*~*~* Angel made his way home dreading to see “the bitch” also known as Darla. There were times like these that made him wonder why he agreed to get married to her. Sure they both had sex with one another, but that’s all it was. There was no love, no feeling from inside that would make you happy. As he drove into the driveway in SUV, he realized that Darla’s car wasn’t in the driveway. That brought a smile to his face. When Angel walked right into the door his dog barked sensing the presence of his owner. Angel kneeled down before his dog. “Hey there girl. You happy to see me,” he said smiling. The dog barked in response. “You look like you’re hungry. Let’s get you something to eat.” His dog leads the way to the kitchen as he took off his jacket and loosened his tie and opened the top button from his shirt. Angel went inside the cabinet and found the dog food and poured it into a bowl and refilled the water bowl as well. Bertha Blue went straight for the food. Angel went to the fridge and found some ham and cheese, mayonnaise and bread and made a sandwich. Though before he sat down he grabbed a Heineken from the fridge and sat down. As he ate his sandwich he was thinking about Buffy and what a performance it was. He just couldn’t believe how she surprised him by coming to his office. His bog finished her food and walked over to Angel and placed her head on Angel’s leg. “I hope someday you’ll meet Buffy. You’ll really like her. She’s nothing like Darla,” he said patting his dog. ~*~*~*~*~* After Angel spent a couple of hours lounging in the living room with Bertha Blue beside him, he decided to head upstairs. As he made it to the bedroom and started undressing his clothes and placing his jacket back into the closet he inhaled the scent of Buffy’s vanilla perfume. “Buffy,” he whispered. He closed the door then headed to the bathroom to wash his face. He looked up into the mirror and gazed up at his reflection and smiled. He was happy with his life now that Buffy entered into his life. ‘I want Buffy more than anything. I have no idea what she’s doing. Actually I do, but it’s starting to become something else.’ He dried his face and went to bed dreaming about Buffy. Darla quickly entered the bedroom quietly not wanting to wake Angel. She shed her clothes and slipped on her nightgown and went under the covers. Angel heard her and a faint smile went across his lips. ‘I got you. So you think that you’re the only one that can cheat in our marriage. Well you’re wrong. Two can play that game.’ Darla in the other hand thought she fooled Angel because she assumed that he was asleep. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 06 It was a damn strange feeling to walk into your own apartment and not recognize a thing, Luke thought as he glanced around the tiny place with a sense of déjà vu. He'd had this same feeling when Sarah had taken him home a couple of months ago. This place had none of the warmth or feeling Sarah's home had, he had to admit. There was hardly any furniture and he had made no attempt to decorate the place whatsoever. The landlord had said Luke never seemed to be around much since he'd rented it back in February, so it probably hadn't really mattered. Apparently Sarah had contacted the man and had been paying Luke's rent since the accident. He wondered how she'd had the money to do that. Then again, the place was pretty low-rent, and it showed. He had a pile of mail waiting for him, and he smiled a little when he saw that the address on these bills matched the one on his license, finally. A quick search didn't reveal much about the man he had been. He had a few DVDs that looked good, some magazines sitting on top of the small TV, and a desk littered with candy bar wrappers and old Coke cans. The bottom drawer, however, yielded a bounty of clues in the guise of old papers, some scribbled notes, a check book and an address book. He opened the address book first and scanned it for Riley's name. He found it, scratched through with a dark pen but still readable. He had half a mind to head over to the guy's place, wait until he got home, and then beat the hell out of him. Kind of hard to do when you don't even know what he looks like though. Besides, Sarah had told him the name of the law firm both he and Riley had used to work at. Luke figured he'd drop in there and try to pay the man a civil visit first. An hour later, Luke walked into the law office of Hartman, Kress and James and felt another sense of déjà vu as he scanned the lobby. It was as if some part of him remembered coming here. Well, made sense if he had worked here himself for a couple of years. Still, he wondered if the feeling meant his memories were finally returning. The middle-aged receptionist blinked in obvious surprise when Luke stepped up to the counter and asked if he could get an appointment with Riley. "Luke!" she gasped, then smiled and rushed around the counter to hug him. "I can't believe it! It's been...well, a long time. What are you doing here?" Awkwardly, he hugged her back, then pulled away to remind her who he'd asked for. She looked at him a bit oddly, then shook her head. "I'm sorry, Luke. I thought you of all people would have known. Riley isn't here." Damn. "Do you know where I could find him? You know, to catch up on old times," he explained as if he and the other man were still old buddies. "Luke, Riley isn't here because he—" she pushed at her eyeglasses and glanced away. "Well, this is awkward, isn't it? Luke, Riley died a few years ago. I'm sorry. I thought you knew. I could have sworn I remembered seeing you at the funeral." Riley was...dead? "Are you sure?" he demanded. What about the phone calls Sarah had received. The package. "Well, I suppose it must have been someone else," she admitted, and when he looked at her funny, she explained, "It must have been someone who looked like you that was at the funeral." Oh, she thought he'd been asking if she was sure she'd seen him then. Of course she was sure Riley had died, he told himself. "How did it happen?" "It was awful," she said. "He had a bad allergic reaction to something he ate. He was alone, and the ambulance didn't get there in time. Of course, the police questioned the whole staff afterward, and we wondered if they didn't suspect foul play. Nothing ever came of it, from what I remember, so I suppose it was just one of those freak things that happens." "How awful," he agreed flatly, feeling a little dazed at this news. If Riley was dead, then what the hell was going on? "Um, what about Bree-Anne? Does she still work here by chance?" Maybe his old assistant could offer some answers. "Bree-Anne?" Clearly she hadn't been very popular with this lady, by the look on her face now. "Last I heard she was engaged to some rich guy. Same old Bree-Anne, you know. As soon as she got her hooks into one, she quit her job here. It was, oh, about a year ago. Good riddance, I say." Luke wondered about this development as he made his way across town to pay his utilities. When the receptionist had mentioned possible foul play in Riley's death, he'd instantly wondered if he himself hadn't had something to do with it. Or maybe Sarah? Even so, it didn't explain why someone else would be stalking his wife. Had she had another lover she hadn't told him about? Had she made up the stalking story to make him want to stay and protect her? Would she go to those lengths to keep him around? He didn't think so. At least, he chose not to believe so. Not yet. He figured, if anything, he was the most likely suspect. What if her betrayal had driven him over the edge? What if he'd wanted revenge against both Riley and Sarah? Had he killed one and secretly tormented the other? What kind of man had he really been? "Man, you were a great guy," was the answer given to him by one his supervisors on the construction site. That's where he went next, looking for answers. He specifically asked if he'd had any close friends, someone he might have confided in. "I don't know. Everyone loved you, but you always kind of kept to yourself," his boss answered after Luke explained his memory loss. "You and A.J. always seemed buddy-buddy. He's the guy whose life you saved, by the way. I know he's wanted to see you, but none of us were sure, you know, after hearing about your amnesia." "I'd like to talk to him," Luke said, and a meeting was arranged for the next day. When Luke made it back to his apartment that night, he was relieved to find his phone and electricity turned back on. The first thing he did was call Sarah. She answered on the second ring and sounded relieved to hear from him. "Have you found out anything?" she asked carefully. He decided not to tell her about Riley, not yet. "Not much. How's Jack?" "He misses you already," she told him. He smiled. "I miss him too." "Just him?" "No, actually," he admitted, then teased, "I'm also missing Edna something fierce. You know, if I were a few years older, you might have reason to worry." "Oh really?" she said, but her voice was lighter, less strained than it had been. "I'll be sure to tell her she's made another fan." They talked for a while longer, mostly about unimportant things. She told him all about her day and Jack's and how often she'd thought how much more fun they'd be having if Luke were there to experience it with them. He almost began to feel guilty for not telling her about Riley, so he told her he needed to get off the phone and get some sleep. Sarah hesitated, and that hesitation spoke volumes about her worry he might not return, but she was strong enough to pretend otherwise. "Just be careful," was all she said. Luke figured he should try and get some sleep, but he was still too wired, thinking about all he'd learned. He just had this feeling that something could jog his memories here, but what? With a frustrated sigh, he turned on the television for company and then decided to go through some of the papers he'd found in the desk earlier. It was better than twiddling his thumbs. Most of the notes scribbled in his hand-writing either made no sense or were totally unimportant. It wasn't until he was flipping through the stack of old newspapers he found that he had a weird feeling come over him, followed by a rush of knowledge that the reason he'd kept them was because of the classifieds. He even knew what page to turn to on the first one, and yep, there it was. A smile curved his lips as he actually recognized the personal ad that had been circled in red. He actually recognized it! In fact, he remembered sitting right over there on the bed when he had spotted the ad originally. No, not this bed. He'd been in Louisiana somewhere, working on a crew that was rebuilding a library, he remembered. Blinking, half in shock, half in delight, he read: PERRY MASON STILL HOT FOR TEACHER? MWF IN SEARCH OF LONG-LOST HUSBAND. I STILL LOVE YOU. PLEASE COME HOME OR CONTACT ME AT THE FOLLOWING PO BOX. He'd known the ad had been placed by Sarah. In the early months of their relationship, she'd begun teasingly calling him Perry Mason whenever he got sidetracked discussing his work. The private joke between them had gotten carried along further when he'd had the hired band play Van Halen's "Hot for Teacher" at their wedding reception, he remembered. He remembered! Flipping through the papers, he saw that he'd kept the classifieds from at least three different months, all with the same ad circled in each one. More vaguely now, he remembered how he'd had a habit since college of perusing the Personals every morning as he ate breakfast and would often share a laugh with Sarah over some of the more offbeat ones. Seeing that ad in the Atlanta newspaper, which he'd picked up for old times sake at a bookstore outside of New Orleans, Luke had made the decision to come home. To come back and see what Sarah wanted. He'd finished the job he was on and signed up for another one in Atlanta, even though he'd never wanted to set foot here again. He still couldn't remember anything much beyond first seeing the ad or after deciding his return to Atlanta. Maybe a few bits and pieces that didn't make much sense. But nothing he most wanted to remember. He almost called Sarah back to share the memories, but it was late and they both needed to get some rest. Suddenly, he realized how exhausted he felt. He was supposed to be meeting with his old friend A.J. at lunchtime. He got ready for bed and carried the classified section with him when he lay down for the night. Sarah's ad was the last thing he saw before sleep claimed him. *** There was just no other way to describe her. The woman was beautiful. Beautiful in that classy Grace-Kelly-kind-of-way, even while she was scantily dressed just this side of indecent. An angel and a vixen, that's how she looked. Luke, almost reluctantly, pulled his eyes away from the woman who'd just stepped into the bar and grill and returned to nursing the beer he'd bought to help settle his nerves. He was waiting on his old co-worker to meet him for lunch and was a little worried about the information he'd learn from the meeting. All morning long he'd wavered on whether or not it was still important to learn the truth. The deeper he dug, the more puzzling things became. "Waiting for someone?" Luke turned at hearing the voice and saw that it had come from her. His beautiful lady. She was standing beside the bar stool next to him, smiling and looking at him as if she expected him to react to her invitation. The expectant look on her face suggested she was worried he'd turn her down. For a split second he was tempted to invite her to join him. Maybe get drunk enough to take her back to his place for the afternoon. It would be nice to forget about his problems for a while, and women like this didn't come along every day. But he just couldn't do that. "Actually, I am," he said, but softened the rebuff with a soft smile. "Sorry." She shot him a funny look, as if she was surprised by his answer after all, but then she sent him a small, almost flirtatious smile. "Too bad," she said with a dramatic sigh and sat beside him anyway. "But maybe I'll get lucky and she won't show up." He laughed a little, then lifted his hand and wiggled his fingers, drawing attention to his ring. "Today I'm meeting a friend. But if you're just looking for a little conversation to keep you company, I'll be happy to oblige until another guy comes along to whisk you away." She sent him another funny look, almost a probing look, before turning her attention to the bartender and ordering a drink. When she turned back to him, she said, "Your wife is a lucky woman." "Some might say I'm a lucky man," he returned with a slight shrug. Before he could engage the lovely brunette in deeper conversation, he heard someone call his name, and he turned to see a tall man gesturing at him in welcome. Luke figured this must be A.J. as he politely excused himself and went to meet the other man. "Man, same old Luke," he was greeted with a big smile and hearty handshake. "I knew not even a ton of bricks could keep my man down. How are you feeling?" Luke had hoped he'd remember something when he saw A.J., but he remembered nothing. They were seated, and Luke explained to the other man all about his recovery and in return was told a lot about the accident that he hadn't remembered. But it didn't jog any memories either. As they ate, Luke felt himself loosing hope all over again. He was beginning to think he wouldn't remember anything else at all. "You know, you do seem different, I think." Luke glanced across the table at his former co-worker and friend and smiled at the comment the other man had just made. A.J. Kincaid hadn't really been what Luke was expecting. A.J. was a tall, wiry black man probably in his early 30s. He'd met Luke at the restaurant wearing a Chicago Cubs hat and a white t-shirt that stated "I'm not getting smaller I'm backing away from you." No, Luke hadn't remembered him at all, but he picked up a few things right away. A.J. was a quiet guy by nature, but when he spoke he had a crazy sense of humor. He also wore a wedding ring and seemed to love his wife very much. "Different?" Luke repeated, lifting his coffee for a sip. "What do you mean?" "I don't know," A.J. shrugged. "More laid back. More relaxed. Before, you always seemed to have the weight of the world on your shoulders." "Hmmm," was Luke's only reply. He felt like he still had the weight of the world on his shoulders. Then, "From what I understand, you and I were pretty decent friends. Didn't I ever tell you why I might act that way?" "I don't know, man," he shifted uncomfortably. "I never wanted to get up in your business like that." "I just thought I might have told you, that's all." A.J. hemmed and hawed for a bit longer until he finally admitted, "Well, yeah, I guess I had a pretty good idea why." "Oh?" He shrugged. "We worked together on a couple of jobs, you know? One time, I don't even remember where we were, but we got pretty drunk one night with some of the guys. Afterward, when it was just the two of us, you started talking some crazy shit." "About what?" Luke asked, really interested now. "You pulled out this picture you always carried with you," A.J. said. "I'd seen it before, but I always figured the girl in it was an old girlfriend or something. You finally told me she was your wife. Then you showed me the wedding ring you wore on a chain around your neck. Man, I never even knew you'd been married before that night." Luke had another sudden, vague recollection of the picture A.J. was referring to. It had been a picture of Luke and Sarah that had been taken the night of their third anniversary. It had been the only one he'd kept when he'd left her, and he'd often pulled it out of his wallet and looked at it to remind himself that life had its good times too. "Then you started talking about how she'd screwed around on you. Some shit about how you'd tried to forgive her, but then some friend of hers had given you a tape that proved she was still screwing around behind your back and gotten knocked up by this other dude. I didn't ask for any more details, because I didn't want to know any more than that." "So the reason I left Sarah was because I saw a tape?" Luke repeated, and it made sense. "I said she was pregnant by another man? I actually told you that?" Had Sarah lied when she said it was one-time event? Did she know, even now, that Jack wasn't his? He raked a frustrated hand through his hair and asked A.J. again if he'd said anything else. "Just back around January, you asked if I could help you get a gig in Atlanta," the black man said. "I called up an old friend, and we both signed on. When I asked why you were so keen to come here, all you said was you had unfinished business you needed to take care of. I just sort of figured it had to do with your wife." When Luke realized he wasn't going to get any more clues from A.J., he thanked the man and went to pay for their lunch only to have A.J. stop him and say, "I owe you my life. The least I can do is pay for lunch." On the drive back to his place, Luke wondered about the tape A.J. had mentioned. He figured Bree-Anne had been the one to show it to him. He decided he'd have to track her down and confront her. If he pretended he remembered what was on the tape, she might be more open to revealing details on her own. Luke was feeling confused about everything as he walked the stairs to his apartment. Why could he remember a few details now and not the rest? He was thinking of calling his doctor when he pushed open the door to his apartment and then jumped, startled, when he saw the woman sitting there on his couch. "Sarah!" He clutched his chest and wondered how in hell she'd gotten in here. "You scared me to death!" "Sorry," she said, looking nervous herself. "I...I told the landlord I was your wife." "And he let you in, just like that?" "I have talked to him on the phone before," she said, and then shrugged. "I hoped you wouldn't mind. I had written down the address that was on your license back when you were in the hospital, in case..." In case I needed to find you again. Luke supposed he could hardly blame her. He would have done the same thing in her shoes. "Where's Jack?" "Staying with Edna," she said. "I know I shouldn't have left him, but I thought it was more important right now to be here, with you. You sounded so weird last night on the phone..." With a sigh, Sarah relaxed and rushed toward him, hugging him as if she'd never been happier to see anyone. Luke felt himself return the gesture, despite these newfound doubts. "I was afraid you'd remember something and start to hate me again," she admitted, and he wondered if she had come to keep him from finding out information. Sarah must have felt him stiffen because she carefully pulled back to look him in the eye. "Have you remembered something?" He didn't answer her. Instead, he pulled away and turned to put his keys on the table. Finally, he simply said, "I'm glad you came. I wanted to ask you some questions I think might help me remember some things." Looking reassured now, she nodded and reclaimed her place on his sofa, gesturing for him to sit close beside her. "I want to help. Even if what you remember changes how you feel about me and Jack, I want to help. Ok?" He wasn't sure he believed her, but he decided to judge her responses and see what feeling he got from her before he decided one way or the other to trust her motives. "When was the last time you actually saw Riley, or Bree-Anne for that matter?" he asked and watched her reaction carefully. Her face instantly changed to one of partial disgust. "The last time I saw Riley was the night he tried to force his way into my apartment. When I wouldn't let him in, he became very nasty. He told me you would never take me back, that he'd made sure of that, and how did I like knowing that most of our so-called friends had been betting on how long it would take him to get me into bed? He said it had been easier than he'd ever imagined it would be and a lot of people had collected big money on the wager. He called me a slut and a whore and said I should be grateful he was still interested because no one else in their right mind would be. That's when my neighbor across the hall interrupted. Not long after, I moved. I haven't seen him since. Why? What did he say to you?" Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 06 Luke wondered if Sarah was being clever by referring to Riley in the present tense, or did she truly not know that he'd died? Shaking his head, he reminded, "And Bree-Anne?" The look of disgust turned into one of almost hatred. "Bree-Anne, my so-called best friend? She seemed to be so sympathetic after everything that happened and you left. I thought she was the one person I could count on. She even said Riley was a bastard and encouraged me to get a restraining order when he kept harassing me. I was such a fool. "She convinced me it would do me good to get out—it was right after you left me, before I knew I was even pregnant. Even though I didn't want to, I finally agreed to meet her for dinner at one of our old hangouts. I excused myself to go to the restroom and when I came back, I saw that she was talking to one of our other friends. They didn't see me approach and I overheard Bree-Anne telling Lynn what a pathetic creature I was. She laughed about Riley's infatuation with me and said that it was no surprise because I'd been leading him on for months. Then she said it was a shame I'd gotten caught and run you off because she was pretty sure she had just about worn you down and gotten you in the sack too. They had another good laugh at my expense, and I let it be known I'd heard the whole thing before I left. I haven't seen or talked to the bitch since." Luke had to admit she was being consistent with her story. Still, he felt the need to ask pointedly, "And you're sure you only slept with Riley once? It didn't happen again?" "What?" Sarah looked at him, obviously not pleased by the question. "What has that creep been saying, Luke? Of course it only happened once. It only happened once, and that was one time too many. You don't seriously believe that whatever he's told you is the truth, do you?" Luke only shrugged. "What do you think he's told me?" he asked and waited for her reaction. "You know what," she said after a second's silence. "Nothing I do or say can prove to you I'm telling the truth. Either you believe me or you don't. If you don't, that's fine. I'll have to accept it and live with it. But I will not keep paying for a stupid mistake I made once three years ago." She made to leave, and Luke realized she meant it. That went a long way in convincing him maybe she was telling the truth. "Sarah, wait. I have remembered some things." She stopped and turned to look at him. The expression on her face was part shock, part hope, and part worry. "You have?" He reached for the classifieds and passed them to her, pointing out the ad circled in red. All of the color drained from her face, then she turned a becoming shade of red, as if she were almost embarrassed by it. "You saw this?" "Back after the new year," he said. "I was in Louisiana. I picked up the paper and couldn't believe it when I saw that. I knew it was from you." Sarah nodded, then walked back over to the sofa and sank down on it. She lifted a hand to her mouth, and he realized she was fighting a wave of emotion. "I ran this ad for almost two years. I can't believe – I mean, I didn't know how else to reach you. You needed to know about Jack, you see. There were weeks when I thought about canceling the ad, but I didn't. I couldn't. And you saw it? Wow." *** Sarah had been sitting in the doctor's office eight months into her pregnancy when she'd spotted someone in her small town reading the Atlanta newspaper. The perfect idea had hit her then! Luke and his newspaper fetish. She'd been on a tight budget, but she'd been desperate and had justified the extra expense of running a small classified ad. Every month she'd considered canceling it, figuring it was useless. And every month, she'd refused to give up hope. She felt Luke sink onto the sofa cushion beside her, and then he placed an arm around her for comfort, to ease the shock of this discovery. Softly, he explained, "I was still wary about coming back, but after I saw that ad, I had to. That's why I took a job here. I think when the accident happened, I was trying to find you. Didn't I write you at the P.O. Box?" Still shaky with emotion, Sarah shook her head. "I check that P.O. Box every week. All I've gotten have been letters from horny guys looking for a good time." Luke frowned, looking thoughtful. He was probably wondering the same thing she was. Why hadn't he written her? "What else have you remembered?" she asked. His frown turned into a sort-of smile. "Not much. Bits and pieces of our wedding. Did we go on a vacation to the Bahamas at some point?" When she nodded, he added, "Yeah, I remember some of that too. Not much else though." "But it's a start," she pointed out and impulsively reached to kiss him on the cheek. He sighed and then blurted out, "Riley is dead." Her first thought – as crazy as it was – was that Luke had killed him. That he'd gotten so angry after coming here, he'd beaten the other man to a pulp. She just blinked and repeated, "Dead?" Luke nodded. "Apparently not long after I first left you a few years ago. I wanted to go to the library and look up his obit to be certain of the details, but from what I understand it was an accident." "But...that doesn't make sense," she frowned. "He just sent me a package. I know, because I recognized the handwriting." "None of this makes much sense," he admitted. He rubbed a hand over his face, rubbed his eyes and said, "I think, maybe, that Riley did something to convince me the two of you were having an ongoing affair. I suspect that Bree-Anne might know more about it than either of us realizes. At this point, she's our only hope of getting some answers, but she married some rich guy and I have no idea how to find her." Sarah listened to Luke's theory and had to admit it made sense. "You might not have any ideas how to find her, but I do." It was quite simple, really, Sarah thought later as they stopped to grab some dinner before returning to Luke's place. She pulled out the notes she'd written down at the library. All they'd had to do was use an internet terminal to access the engagement and wedding announcements in the newspaper's archives. She'd known Bree-Anne well enough to know the woman would want to advertise the fact that she'd finally landed a big one. And she had. The wedding write-up had even detailed the groom's employment information as well as Bree-Anne's so-called contributions to area charities. That had earned a snicker from Sarah. Bree-Anne didn't have a charitable bone in her lithe little body. Armed with a name to reference, it was easy enough to find Bree-Anne's new home address and phone number listed in a search engine. They'd also looked up Riley's obit, and Sarah hadn't been quite certain whether she believed he was truly dead until she'd read it there in black and white. Oddly, she'd just felt sort of numb then. "So, Sherlock, do we go visit Bree-Anne when we leave here, or do you have another plan up your sleeve?" Luke asked once their waiter had delivered their food. She glanced at Luke and caught the smile he sent her way. He was clearly impressed that she'd tracked down the other woman so easily, and even if he still had doubts about her, Sarah figured he'd shoved them to the back of his mind, for now. "Actually, I need to call and check on Jack," she said with a sigh. "Do you mind if we pay Bree-Anne a visit tomorrow?" "Yeah, we need to check on the kid," he agreed. "Might be nice just to kick back and relax for the night before the big confrontation." She wondered if all he wanted to do was kick back and relax. Would they even be sharing a bed? For all she knew, he expected her to get a hotel room for the night. They hadn't really talked about it; she'd just assumed she'd be welcome to stay with him. Maybe she'd assumed too much, especially if he was having doubts again. "What's wrong?" he asked. Shaking herself, she forced a smile and answered, "Nothing. Just tired. I didn't get much sleep last night." "Yeah, well, I hate to say this, but don't expect to get much tonight either." Her surprise must have shown on her face because he suddenly laughed and added, "Get your mind out of the gutter, lady. I meant because my bed isn't all that comfortable in the apartment. That reminds me, how did you manage to pay my rent these past few months?" She felt herself turn a little red as she admitted, "Actually, I had a little savings." Savings she'd planned to use to repair the must-be-fixed in her house before winter came around again. When she'd come up short for his rent last month, she'd borrowed from her parents, who'd said it was for a worthy cause anyway. She'd figured the least she could do for her husband was make sure his stuff was preserved until he could get back to it. When they got back to the apartment, they watched a DVD and then decided to turn in early. Sarah wasn't sure if Luke wanted to make love or not, but she changed into her best nightgown anyway. Her insecurities fled when Luke saw her in it. The look in his eyes was all too familiar and made her smile a little. When he went to kiss her, she went into his arms with a sigh. "Luke?" "Mmm?" "Will you just hold me tonight?" "Hold you?" He pulled back to look at her carefully. "You don't want to--?" "I do," she assured him. "But I'm really tired, and I'm really worried. I'd just like to be held right now. Is that OK?" "Sure." He stripped down to his boxers and let her get settled in. She patted the mattress beside her, and he crawled into bed. She sighed when his arms slid around her from behind, keeping her close and making her feel protected again. She began to think about all they'd discovered today. She thought about Riley and his wasted life. She thought about Jack and how much she missed him. She thought about Luke and how strong he was to be handling everything so well. When he regained his memories, he would probably leave her. She knew she would feel that loss for the rest of her life. The first tear spilled over and she wiped it impatiently away. "You OK?" Luke asked softly in the darkness. The tears were falling too fast to catch now, and she laughed at herself. "I don't even know what I'm crying for." "It doesn't matter. Let it out." She turned over and buried her face in his shoulder. He put his arms around her and held her while she wept, just like he always had. And they both wondered what would happen tomorrow as they allowed exhaustion to claim them for the night. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 07 Buffy woke up with a smile on her face. Tonight she was going to have dinner with Angel and company. ‘Oh, he has no idea what I have planned for him tonight.’ She was thrilled that it was Saturday because she wanted to relax and plan out the evening of fun with Angel. She was rather curious about seeing Darla. ‘She seems to be the bitch from hell if Angel’s cheating on her.’ Buffy stretched her petite form and got of bed. She grabbed her robe from the closet and then headed for the kitchen. ~*~*~*~*~* Faith was in the kitchen making pancakes when she heard footsteps. She turned around and spotted her best friend. “Morning,” she said smiling. “Morning Faith. Oh, you’re making me breakfast?” “No, I’m not. I’m making us breakfast,” she said swatting Buffy with a dishtowel. “You’re awfully cheery. So what gives? Angel?” “Can’t a girl be happy?” Faith raised an eyebrow. “Yes, it’s him. He makes me happy.” “Okay. So when is the next fuck fest?” “Faith! I can’t believe you!” “Fine. Don’t tell me. So have you gone down on him yet?” “No, I haven’t.” “So has he gone down on you?” “No.” “Though something tells me that you thought about him going down or you going down on him.” “Of course I have. Though when the timing is right we’ll both know.” “Oh, how sweet. Okay how about this question. How big is he?” “He’s big enough,” Buffy said grinning. While Faith had been asking her questions about Angel, her thoughts drifted towards him. The idea of going down on him or him giving her oral pleasure just made her nipples hard and the wetness in between her legs increase even more. Faith looked at Buffy and could tell by the expression on the blonde’s face that she was thinking about Angel. She was thinking naughty things to do with that man. Faith had the feeling that one of theses days the blonde headed female would say she’s in love with Angel. “That’s good to know. Oh, just to let you know, I’ve went down on Spike and he’s done the same for me.” “Thank you very much Faith. I so didn’t need the visuals of my best friend with her best friend.” “Your welcome,” Faith grinned. ~*~*~*~*~* Angel had decided to take a morning run with his dog. He always liked running as a child and continued doing throughout his teenage years. As he was running in his L.A. neighborhood he was able to clear his thoughts. This was his time a part from everyone, especially Darla. As his Nike sneakers hit the pavement, his arms were at his sides. He was dressed in sweatpants and a white T-shirt. He had sweat dripping down his chiseled face and well-sculpted chest. His shirt was beginning to cling to his body as if it were second skin. He spotted a bench and sat down to drink some water. He leaned back and closed his eyes and started to picture a certain blonde. As he was off drifting, thinking about Buffy, Spike made his way over to see his best friend. “Angel, what are you doing up so early?” “You know me. I like to run.” Angel was thinking whether or not to tell Spike that he decided to have an affair with Buffy. “Spike, I got something to tell you.” “Sure, what is it?” “If I tell you this you better not tell anyone. Especially Darla.” “Okay, man. The suspense is killing me. Tell me already,” Spike said anxiously. “I’m having…I’m having an affair with Buffy.” Angel was thrilled that he got that off his chest. “Wow,” Spike was stunned. He couldn’t believe that his clean cut; goody two shoes of a best friend would have an affair. “So you and Buffy? She’s really that good in the sack huh?” “Spike, I’m not saying anything.” “Does she give good head?” Spike asked grinning. “Spike! I’m not even going to answer that.” Angel just couldn’t believe his best friend. “Fine then. Have you touched her down below?” “Spike! Don’t even go there. It’s none of your business.” “I guess that means no.” “I’m not going to answer that. I just need for you to not tell Darla.” “Fine.” “I mean it Spike. You better not say anything.” “I won’t. I promise.” ~*~*~*~*~* Since Buffy just happened to in L.A. for the weekend and Angel invited her to dinner, she had to have a decoy of some sorts. So her decoy was Willow and Xander. She had gone back home to tell Faith about her and Angel. She also knew that faith and Spike were becoming closer because of what Faith told her this morning. ‘Hmm. What am I going to wear for tonight’s little adventure?’ Buffy was sitting in her tub filled with bubbles al the way to her neck. Her head laid back against a cushion with her eyes closed with two slices of cucumbers over her eyes and her arms on the sides of the bathtub. The only thing that would set this mood is to have Angel on the other side of the tub flirting with her. She took her Gillette Venus razor and applied her shaving gel and slid the razor on her leg to get rid of any hairs. When she was done with both of her legs she rinsed herself off and stepped out of the tub. She wrapped a towel around her waist and stepped inside her bedroom. She dropped her towel to the floor and walked around her room naked in search for what to wear. Ashe wanted to look really nice for him, but at the same time she wanted something east access. So Buffy slipped on her blue dress with matching underwear underneath. She already slipped on her high thigh black stockings and pumps. Buffy fixed her hair in a French twist leaving a couple of strands loose and curled at the ends. She then looked herself in the mirror making sure everything was in place, grabbed her purse and was out the door. ~*~*~*~*~* Angel was getting dressed and was just thankful that Buffy was going to be there. The only other reason why he wouldn’t say no was for his parents. He loved them dearly even though he had an altercation with his father. His parents just never saw the side of Darla that he knew. They never saw what a true bitch that she is. He could tell that Darla didn’t want to go, but she didn’t say it out loud yet. “You know Angel I’m really not in the mood for having dinner with your parents.” “So then don’t go.” ‘I’ll be extremely happy.’ “No, I’m going. It’s just your mother’s going to ask why we don’t have a child yet after two years of marriage.” “You know perfectly well why we don’t have sex. Though I know for a fact that you’ve been fucking behind my back.” “How dare you say that!” Darla was about to slap him, but Angel grabbed her wrist.” “I know you’ve been fucking Lindsay McDonald behind my back. So don’t act all innocent on me now.” “Oh, like you haven’t.” “Actually I haven’t.” ‘Not until now that is.’ “So what do you do?” “I do what any man who’s married to a woman that he can’t stand. I masturbate. I fuck. So let’s drop this and get ready to see my folks and two of my employees with their friend.” Darla huffed in response. She couldn’t wait to find some time soon to see Lindsay. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 07 Luke and Sarah strode up the path to the Fletcher house, or rather mansion, Luke thought to himself, eyeing the large estate with trepidation. He and Sarah had argued over breakfast about how best to approach the newly-married Bree-Anne Fletcher. He'd wanted to do it alone; so had Sarah. They'd finally settled on doing it together. "The shock value of both of us might stun her into revealing more than she would to either of us alone," Sarah had pointed out, and he'd had to agree. When he rang the doorbell to announce their visit, he felt Sarah's hand slide into his and squeeze it a little too tight for comfort. "No matter what happens, you're still coming home to me and Jack, right?" she asked in a strained voice. He wondered why she'd ask something like that now but decided he'd find out soon enough. Before he could answer, the door swung open and a small middle-aged woman in cleaning garb asked, "Can I help you?" Sarah cleared her throat and beamed a smile at the woman. "Hi there. We're old friends of Bree-Anne and were passing through town. Is she home, by any chance?" "She's around back in the garden. Please come in and I'll tell her you're here." The woman led them into a warmly decorated living room and then asked, "Who may I tell her is calling?" "The Johnstons," Sarah said, sending Luke a veiled glance and adding another squeeze to his hand. When the woman left, Luke decided to snoop around a little. Bree-Anne had obviously married well. The paper had said her husband was the CEO of a local marketing firm. Luke walked around the room, looking at expensive knick-knacks and framed photos of people. His eye caught one and stopped. He picked up the frame of the man and woman and said, "Hey, I know this lady." Sarah rushed over to look for herself. "You remember her?" He shook his head. No. It was the lady from the bar and grill, the one who'd tried to pick him up. "I saw her yesterday at the restaurant." "Well, she used to be blonde and I'm pretty sure she's had a nose job since I last saw her, but that's definitely Bree-Anne," Sarah pointed out. Luke suddenly got a very bad feeling about this and was tempted to grab Sarah's hand and leave. "I was wondering if you two were going to show up," a distinctly feminine and British voice said, capturing Luke's attention. He lifted his head and saw the woman from the picture standing in the doorway, not looking the least bit phased to see them in her home. Sarah pressed closer to Luke, but calmly returned, "Hello Bree-Anne. It's been a long time." The other woman's eyebrows shot up as she smiled at the comment. She stepped further into the room and said, "Let's not kid each other, Sarah. It hasn't been long enough for either of us. Can I get either of you a drink?" Luke and Sarah exchanged glances as if to say Is she kidding? Then Luke pointed out, "Your voice is very different than it was yesterday. One might think you were deliberately disguising it from me then." Bree-Anne laughed. "How true. I have to say I expected you to remember me anyway. After all, we knew each other so intimately at one time. Then again, I suppose you don't remember any of that, do you? Pity." "What are you talking about?" Sarah asked, even as Luke frowned at the implications. "Oh Sarah, don't be so bloody stupid," Bree-Anne chided. "Who do you think Luke turned to when he found out you were cheating on him? Of course, that was a long time ago and I am married now. Quite happily, in fact, so if you will please just say what you came to say and leave, I would appreciate it." Sarah shot Luke a look full of hurt and shock. He wished he could tell her it wasn't true, but hell if he knew if it was or not. His frown turned angry as he focused on the other woman and asked, "Why were you following me yesterday? How do you know about my amnesia?" She shrugged and took a sip of the drink she'd prepared herself. "The accident made the papers. But I was hardly following you. I just happened to be at the same restaurant as you yesterday. Pure coincidence." "Yeah, well, I'm starting to think there are no such things as coincidences." "Suit yourself," she said. "What is the purpose of this lovely visit anyway?" Luke stepped forward and demanded, "What did you tell me to make me leave Sarah?" She laughed. "Tell you? Why nothing but the truth. In fact, I think it was what I gave you that finally did the trick. Sorry, Sarah, dear, but I couldn't keep your secrets forever. Dear Luke deserved better. It was quite sad, really, the way you and Riley were cuckolding him behind his back once he was trying to give you a second chance." "What the hell are you implying?" Sarah demanded angrily. "Does it really matter anymore? Let's just put it all behind us. Obviously you two have, if you're here together. Or did you try to use Luke's amnesia to hide your dirty affair?" Sarah moved toward her smug-looking nemesis, with what intent he didn't know, but Luke grabbed her and held her back just to be safe. "You gave me a tape," he pointed out. Something flickered in Bree-Anne's eyes as if he'd caught her by surprise, finally. "So you have remembered?" "What tape? What are you talking about?" Sarah asked. "Tell Sarah about the tape, Bree-Anne. I'm sure she'll find it enlightening to know you were taping her and Riley without their knowledge." Sarah looked puzzled, but Bree-Anne had regained her composure and simply shrugged. "If I hadn't taped that conversation between them, you would have never known the truth." So it had been an audio tape, not a video tape as Luke had first suspected. He probed for more details, saying, "I'm sure Riley knew it was being recorded, didn't he? I'm sure he even helped." Again, Bree-Anne seemed surprised, but she agreed, "Poor Riley. It was his idea, actually. He really thought he was in love with your wife, but even though she was happy enough to carry on an affair, for some reason she didn't want to leave you for him. He wanted to help that along." "That's a damned lie! And what conversation? What are you talking about?" Sarah demanded. "Luke, I swear I never led Riley on. After that one night, I made it clear I never wanted to see him again. You have to believe me!" Suddenly Luke remembered. He remembered sitting in his office with Bree-Anne across from him as she pulled a tape out of her purse, looking pained to do so, and gave it to him. He remembered going down to his car for lunch and listening to the tape there. The tape had been a little muffled, but he'd clearly been able to make out Riley's distinct voice talking and laughing with a woman. A woman who had sounded a lot like Sarah. As he continued to listen to the sounds of obvious lovemaking, he'd grown angrier and angrier, especially when the lovemaking stopped and Riley said, "What do you think Luke would do if he knew we were still seeing each other?" "Probably kill us both," Sarah laughed. "Especially if he knew I was expecting your child. I suppose I'll have to convince him it's his. He'll probably be so happy, he won't even question it. I haven't told him yet that I'm pregnant, so I have some time." Shaking himself of the memory, he stared anew at his wife, who still appeared angry by what Bree-Anne was suggesting. "It was a conversation between you and Riley," Luke told Sarah now, even as he backed away from her a little. "Half of it was the two of you having sex, but the rest was pretty clear. You told him you were pregnant with his baby, but you'd convince me it was mine. ... Jack?" he breathed harshly and felt more pain than he would have expected at the revelation. "What? No!" Sarah turned to Bree-Anne and demanded, "I never had a conversation like that. It wasn't me!" "Who else could it have been?" Bree-Anne shot back haughtily. Sarah pointed a finger in her direction and accused, "You! You're pretty good at changing your voice. You must have somehow changed your voice to sound like mine." "How ridiculous." Bree-Anne glanced at her watch. "As much fun as this has been, I'm afraid I'll have to ask you to leave now." "No," Luke said. He was remembering... He remembered that he'd never slept with Bree-Anne. She had just implied, not fifteen minutes ago, that he had. That meant she was lying then, and he knew she had a history of lying. Why hadn't he realized it might not have been Sarah on the tape? The memories were clear now. They were assaulting him, making him dizzy. He turned to look at the woman who had once been his assistant and said, "You killed Riley, didn't you?" "What?" she turned red. "How dare you!" "You were helping Riley embezzle funds from the firm," he said, still remembering. "That's one reason you were so intent on driving a wedge between me and Sarah. To keep me so distracted, I wouldn't find out. But I did, didn't I? At least, I almost had enough evidence to turn you and Riley in, but that's when you gave me that tape. You encouraged me to leave Sarah and leave town, and by that point, nothing mattered to me anymore so I did." "You're talking crazy," Bree-Anne argued, but even so, she was backing away. Sarah was casting glances between him and her ex-friend as if everything was starting to make sense. "Why would she kill Riley? How?" Sarah asked quietly. "That I can't answer," Luke admitted. "You can't prove any of this!" Bree-Anne said, looking more and more discomfited by the minute. Luke thought hard for a second and then, "You tried to have me killed. You had someone rig the site I was working on so it would give way and crush me. How did you know I was even back in Atlanta?" "I've always known where you both were," she said, and then realized she'd probably admitted too much. "Both of us? But..." Sarah shook her head, then looked as if she'd just had a major revelation. "It was you who sent me that package! You must have sent them all. But why?" "Isn't it obvious?" Luke said, feeling more confident in his conclusions now. "To control you. She wanted you out of town as much as she wanted me out of town. If you were still here, I might come back for you someday. She used your fear to drive you into hiding and to insure you never came back. Just as she used my anger to drive me away. She had us pegged all along." "Even if it's true, you have to realize I was only doing it to protect you. If you came back here, I would have to—" "Kill me?" Luke said, moving in close to shield Sarah in case the other woman was to do something crazy. "I guess you must have gotten pretty nervous when you saw I was back in town. You have a lot more to loose now – a husband, money, respect. If I went to the police with my suspicions, your whole world would crumble. Do you know it was pure luck I was the only one who got hurt in that accident? You might have killed other innocent men in the process." Bree-Anne looked at him calmly for a second, then turned back to the bar. She quickly downed a glass of something and turned back to face them. Only this time, she had a small gun in her hand. "I didn't want to do this," she said emotionally. "The whole thing with Riley was an accident. We were having dinner at his place; I was trying to convince him to give up his infatuation with Sarah. He knew where she was and was thinking of going to see her, but I tried to make him see that could only stir you up again if you found out. Make you vengeful toward the both of us. When he had a reaction to something he ate, I didn't know what to do. I panicked. I left him alone. I didn't know he'd die! It was only afterwards that I realized what a good stroke of luck it had been for me. With him dead, I didn't have to split the money with him. There was no one around who knew the truth, except for you, Luke, but you were gone and didn't give a damn about anything anymore. Everything seemed to fall into place after that." "Until I came back,' Luke pointed out bitterly. "I'm sorry. I love my husband. I love him enough to kill you to keep him from ever finding out the truth. It's not even about the money anymore. Can you understand that?" She swallowed hard and raised the gun a little higher. "I followed you yesterday as a test. If I could convince myself you really couldn't remember anything, I was going to let you go on with your life with Sarah. You see, I finally understand now, what it's like to love someone as much as you two did. I was so damned relieved when you didn't recognize me. Then you had to ruin it by coming here. Damn you! How am I going to cover this up now?" "You can't," Luke said calmly. "Killing us will only make things worse for you. Right now, you're only facing embezzling charges. You might even get off with probation. Killing us will get you ten years to life in prison." Luke sensed Bree-Anne's actions before she took them. He was already moving toward her even as she raised the gun and was pointing it at herself. He dove toward her just in time to knock her to the floor. The gun went off. Sarah screamed. "Luke!" Rolling over, feeling light-headed, the last thing he saw before passing out was Sarah's concerned face leaning over him. Epilogue Halloween had always been a favorite time of year for Sarah. She always enjoyed the feeling of fall beginning to change to winter in Georgia, and even more so, she enjoyed seeing the excitement on the faces of the children she taught as they dressed in various costumes and worked on Halloween crafts while waiting for the end of the day to arrive. With a slight little smile, Sarah saw her last student off safely to the dismissal area and wondered why this Halloween seemed so different from the others she'd experienced. Maybe it was because of Luke. As if just thinking about him had conjured him in the flesh, she felt a pair of strong arms slide around her waist from behind as she was writing the next day's lesson on the chalkboard. With a happy sigh, he leaned his head on her shoulder and said, "Aren't you finished yet? Jack is dying to show you his costume." She smiled to herself. She suspected it was Luke who was dying to see her costume rather than Jack showing her his. Luke had made a game of Halloween this year. They, along with Edna of course, were set to attend a Halloween party at the Kincaid house after they took Jack trick or treating. Luke had decided none of them would show the others their costume until Halloween night. Jack had been the exception, of course, but he'd chosen to let Luke help him pick out his costume this year, keeping it a secret from Sarah. "I suppose I can call it a day," she said, turning to give him a teasing kiss. "Besides, I need to get home and get dressed soon, don't I?" "Sure, and I'll be glad to help with that last part." She eyed him haughtily in mock disgust and couldn't help but smile inside knowing how lucky they were. She'd almost lost him three times now, but thank goodness, luck had been on their side. He'd saved Bree-Anne's life and managed only to get grazed by the bullet, but when he'd passed out and she'd seen the blood, Sarah had been certain he'd been fatally wounded. The grief she'd experienced in that minute had been overwhelming. To have had him back again only to lose him so soon had seemed like the cruelest of fates. He'd woken up just as the paramedics had arrived, only to look at Sarah and say, "Hey, if it gets me this much attention, maybe I should keep having more accidents. What do you think?" Then he'd smiled, and she'd cried in relief. The months following had been a time of transition for her, Luke and Jack. Bree-Anne had been arrested, of course, and much to Sarah's surprise, the other woman's husband had seemed determined to stand by her, at least for now. Bree-Anne's trial for attempted murder was coming up in a few weeks, and even though her one-time friend seemed genuinely remorseful now, Sarah wasn't sure how she felt about any of it anymore. She was just glad the truth had come out, and Bree-Anne was getting help. Luke still hadn't fully recovered all of his memories. It seemed likely he never would. But he didn't seem to mind anymore, and a lot of the memories he could now access were of the early days, when he and Sarah had been so much in love. Sure, they still had their awkward moments, but they were getting through them. Jack had tested Luke's authority something fierce those first few weeks, but Luke seemed to know just what to do to keep their son in line. He and Jack were fast becoming best friends, and although Sarah sometimes felt oddly jealous and left out, she was willing to step aside and share her son with his father. Luke had also continued his friendship with A.J., and Sarah had found a kindred soul in A.J.'s wife too. Luckily their new friends also had two kids, one of which was a little boy a year older than Jack. The two families often did things together now that Sarah hadn't had an opportunity to do when it was just her and Jack. "So, what's your costume, mister?" Sarah asked Luke as he drove her home. "What? Isn't it obvious? I'm Perry Mason, of course!" he said, then sent her a teasing smile as he flipped his tie up. On a trial basis, he was working at a small lawyer's office near the school she taught at. This time around, however, Luke was making a point of taking cases that truly helped people who couldn't afford big fees and who had legitimate cases. He seemed happy doing it, and that's all that mattered to her. Once home, Sarah left Luke to deal with their son, who was dressed in an adorable costume as Spiderman. Edna, their elderly neighbor, was dressed as a clown. Sarah reached into the hiding place she'd made and pulled out the box containing her costume. She supposed Luke was expecting her to be dressed in something scandalous, but she just hadn't been able to bring herself to purchase the playboy bunny or French maid outfit she'd seen. She hoped she'd reached a good compromise, choosing something she wanted and something he would appreciate. It had cost a little more, but she figured it would be worth it. Squeezing into the tight leather outfit proved to be more daring than she'd anticipated. When she had it on, she figured she'd gone a size too small, but it still looked pretty good on her. The leather molded her body like a second skin. She tousled her hair and then used the hairspray paint to add a finishing touch to the costume. Satisfied, she stepped into the hall and called, "Everyone ready to see mine now?" Jack yelled back, "Come on, mama! Let me see. Let me see!" Smiling, she stepped into the living room and twirled. "Wow! You're an X-men, mama!" Jack pointed out excitedly. "Remember which one?" she asked her son, then tilted her head so he could see the white streak in her hair. "Rogue! Cool!" Jack danced around impatiently. "Look, Nanna. Me, mama and daddy are all going as superheroes!" Sarah glanced around, not seeing Luke anywhere. Just then he came walking into the room, messing with his costume and not paying attention to Sarah's yet. She had to laugh, but it was a surprised, pleased laugh that caught his attention and made him look up at her. "What! You copied my costume, woman!" he mock growled. He was dressed in the male version of her costume, another X-man. Obviously they'd gotten it from the same place. They were too similar not to. She supposed great minds think alike. Not to mention, Jack made them watch the movies at least twice a week. "Yeah, daddy, but which one are you supposed to be? You don't look so much like Wolverine," Jack pointed out. "Ooooh! Put on some sunglasses. You'll be Cyclops!" Luke smiled as he walked over and pulled Sarah into his arms. "Which one is Rogue's boyfriend?" Jack bounced up and down. "In the cartoon it's Gambit, but you don't look like Gambit either, Daddy. Gambit has this long coat he wears." Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 07 Luke pulled back, considered his costume for a second, then walked over and pulled Sarah's tan trench coat off the coat rack. He slung it around his shoulders. "This better?" Jack cheered and laughed and said, "Not really. You're silly, Daddy." Tossing the trench coat aside, Luke pulled Sarah close again, nuzzled her ear and said, "You're my woman. I'm keeping you close in case any other X-men get any ideas." She laughed and kissed him. "Trust me. You don't have to worry. You're the only X-man for me." Grabbing his father's hand, Jack interrupted with a fierce, "OK, let's go now please!" Laughing, Luke scooped Jack up into his arms, gave him a tickle and smiled as his son squirmed and Sarah giggled. Watching the happy family, Edna Nash felt a tear at the corner of her eye. They had their fair share of problems, but these folks would make it. The love in the room tonight was downright inspirational, and she was honored to be a part of it. "All right, superheroes, let's go," she said before all this emotion had her blabbering away. She had always been a sucker for a family in love. *** Thanks for reading. Special thanks to Kanga40 and Writingdragon for your editing expertise. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 08 When Angel and Darla made it to the restaurant his parents, Susan and Patrick McKeon were already seated. “Hi Mom. Dad.” He greeted both of his parents. Darla gave her salutations as well and then they both sat down. Angel paid no attention to his wife and spoke to his mother. “You look lovely tonight, Mom.” “Thank you my little Angel. You look great yourself.” He smiled at the compliment. He was wearing his trademark black suit with a white shirt and black tie. His hair was done with its usual spikes. They spoke some more before their company arrived. Angel sensed that Buffy and her friends had arrived because he could feel that tingling sensation that was inside his body. He turned his head around and saw his blonde beauty staring right at him. His brown eyes connected with her green ones and they smiled. ‘Okay just calm yourself and remember that your wife and parents are here.’ ‘Ooh, this is gonna be fun.’ Buffy, Willow and Xander made their way to the table and greeted everyone. So as everyone sat on the round table it was Buffy, Angel, Darla, his parents, Xander and Willow. It was perfect because Buffy could have easy access to Angel. Angel looked over to Buffy and noticed how the dress had a plunging neckline that exposed part of her breasts. A part of him wondered why she was tempting him like this. There was no way they could do anything. “See anything you like?” Buffy asked smiling. “Actually…” Darla cut off Angel. “Angel, who is she?” Darla wanted to know because she noticed how Angel was drawn to her. “She’s Buffy Summers, a new client of the company. She’s also friends of Willow and Xander.” ‘Oh, and she’s also my love. Not that you’d know.’ “Oh.” ‘Good for a moment there I thought maybe she was your whore.’ As the waiter came by and took their menus and started on their orders everyone began talking with one another. Buffy figured that she could start having her own little fun. She took off her shoe and proceeded to hike Angel’s pant leg. She just loved the idea of teasing and taunting him in front of his wife. Angel couldn’t tell Buffy to stop because everyone would know and he just loved the feeling. Finally their dinner had arrived and everyone was eating when Patrick McKeon was the first to ask a question. “Buffy, what kind of business do you own?” “I own a lingerie business, Mr. McKeon.” Patrick McKeon nearly choked. “Lingerie? How interesting.” “That’s great Buffy. A woman that can have her own business no matter what it is and run it too as an intelligent woman. So a beautiful young lady like yourself must have a boyfriend?” “No, I don’t. I’m still looking for the right man.” ‘Though the one right next to me is perfect.’ As she had said those very words her foot began to hike up his pant leg again and caressed his leg with her foot again. Angel in return placed his hand on her knee and slowly massaging it with his fingertips. Buffy wanted to moan under his gentle caress, but couldn’t due to their audience. He turned to look at her and smiled, while Susan McKeon caught the intimate interaction between the two. ‘My son sure seems to be fond of Buffy. I wonder if there is more to it.’ The flirting between them in the restaurant was heating up. Angel’s gentle caresses just kept on giving her shivers down her spine and a tingling feeling right inside her body. Buffy needed to get away and get things moving. “Would you excuse me for a moment? I’m heading to the ladies room.” They all nodded in response. ~*~*~*~*~* Buffy quickly made it to the men’s room and made sure that no men were in there. She didn’t need an audience for what she had planned. She looked herself over in the mirror and touched up a bit. Buffy then took her cell phone out and proceed to call Angel. ~*~*~*~*~* Meanwhile Angel was chatting with his parents when he heard his phone rang. He took it out and noticed that he had a message. He thought it was odd that someone would be calling him. So he checked his voicemail and the written message said, You. Me. Fuck. Now. Men’s Room. He knew exactly who it was right then and there. “I’m sorry, but apparently Spike just left me message and I have to call him back. It’s urgent.” “It’s alright Angel.” “Thanks Mom.” Angel left the table and calmly he strode over to the men’s room with a silly grin on his face. Angel finally made it to the men’s room. He hoped that any man wouldn’t come in and hear them going at it. He saw Buffy stepped out of the stall and went pass by him to lock the door. “Well we don’t want any company, do you?” “Of course not.” She made quick strides towards him, and pulled him in for an intense kiss. His hands went automatically around her waist as her fingers threaded through the short brown strands of his hair. As both of their bodies were flushed up against one another leaving no space in between them. He lifted her legs automatically to his hips ad guided her towards the sink and sat her down. As they were still kissing, their hands roaming each other just feeling one another the mirror was reflecting their actions. He released the kiss for one moment to look Buffy straight into her eyes and noticed the lust, the desire, the need of her wanting him. His brown eyes trailed down to her pouty red lips that he longed to kiss since she sat next to him at the restaurant. He made his lips found it’s place right back into hers. He pulled her petite frame right into his large one with her legs wrapped around his waist and headed straight for the bathroom stall. He quickly locked the door with one hand. Buffy’s hands began threading into his hair just feeling the texture of the silky strands. Angel’s hands roamed all over her body just feeling how smooth and silky her dress really was. Angel decided to sit on the toilet seat with Buffy on top of him. This way he could have easy access to her panties. She brought her lips to his and lightly teased his tongue with hers just to show him what was to come. “Hi. Miss me?” he asked with a wicked smile. “Always.” He then pulled her into his arms again holding her closely and kissed her once more. His hands began stroking up in her thighs feeling how smooth the sheer fabric of her stockings. As he was about to slide his fingers inside the waistband of her panties he felt her bare behind. “No underwear?” “No, it’s a thong,” she said with a wicked smile. He was shocked, but at the same time he was turned on. His hands continued caressing her bare ass squeezing her tenderly. “Oh,” she moaned breathlessly. She bent her head and captured his lips into a kiss while her hands were finding her way to the waistband of his pants. She then unbuttons his pants and zipper and slid her hand inside the slit of his boxers feeling his erection stroking it gently. “Oh, don’t do that Buffy,” he said huskily. “ I know you like it because I feel you growing and getting harder,” she said looking into his brown eyes. She kept on stroking him lightly getting him harder. Angel took his hand and slipped underneath her dress and slid the thong aside as Buffy slipped his member inside of her. They both hissed at the contact of feeling one another on that sexual way. Buffy being on top taking control and started moving her hips back and forth. Angel held onto her hips firmly thrusting his hips forward going deeper inside of her wet folds. Buffy in return squeezed her inner muscles onto his throbbing erection causing Angel to moan. “Buffy.” He just couldn’t believe the amount of control this little woman had over him. Every time they were together he just couldn’t get enough of this woman. The more their bodies intertwined as one, the more closely they both were reaching their orgasm. Angel let his fingers find that spot and gently rubbed her clit eliciting that moan to make her orgasm. “Oh, Angel,” she said breathlessly. Buffy squeezed herself on him one more and Angel just let out a groan and came. “Uh.” They both embraced one another just relaxing after the wonderful sexual act. Buffy stood up and fixed herself up and took off her underwear. Angel stood up as well and fixed himself up. Buffy then handed him the underwear and whispered into his ear. “Here’s something for you to remember me by.” She then kissed him on the cheek. He looked at her and swallowed the lump that formed in his throat. “Okay. Thanks.” “Your welcome,” she said and then kissed him once more on the lips. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 09 9 Both Buffy and Angel returned to their seats each with an expression on their faces. Angel couldn't help but leave a silly grin on his face while Buffy was just content. Angel's mother then noticed how happy her son had been. 'I just wonder if they have something going on.' "Angel, you seem happy. Is Spike alright?" "Oh, Spike is just fine," he said smiling. 'Well wherever he may be, I on the other hand couldn't be more happier.' ~*~*~*~*~* Over the next several days everyone that knew Buffy and Angel were beginning to wonder that whether their friendship was more friendly than business. Willow and Xander were sitting out for lunch because it was such a beautiful day. As Xander was eating his sandwich, Willow decided to strike up a conversation. "Xander, I have the feeling that Buffy is seeing Angel?" "What?!" "What gave you that idea?" "I mean didn't you notice the way she looked at Angel." "Not really. I was mostly enjoying my food. Besides Angel's married to Darla, remember?" "I know that Xander, but to me it seemed like Angel was a bit distracted by Buffy and so was she." "Willow you're jumping to conclusions." "I'm not! Don't you remember that when I asked her about her new relationship she couldn't even give me a name?" "Oh, come on Willow. Let's just drop the subject, okay?" "Fine." 'You'll see Xander. I know something is going on with Buffy and Angel and I'm gonna find out.' ~*~*~*~*~* Faith and Spike had gone out for dinner and were walking along the boardwalk. Each of them knew that their best friend was playing with fire, but didn't seem to mind the heat. Apparently the one-night-stand between those two must have been magnetic because they continued their sexual encounters and now they are lovers. "I had fun tonight, Spike. It was great seeing you again." "Sure it was. You just enjoyed that quickie we had in the back before we went to the restaurant," he said smiling. "You've caught me. I'm guilty. I just can't help it when you take me anywhere you please," she said smiling back. "That's my girl." "Spike, you know about Buffy and Angel right?" "Sure love. What about it?" "What has he confided in you about Buffy?" "I think he loves her, but hasn't seen it yet. I know he will admit one of these days though." "I just want her to be happy and have lots of great sex. Though I know her and she's always been a wild one, but deep inside her she wants to be loved and be in love." "So does he." ~*~*~*~*~* Karin, Angel's secretary had noticed lately boss seemed happier these past few months. She wondered if it was because of a certain blonde that went to see him. Just as Karin was thinking about her boss and his love life, he came strolling in. "Good Morning, Karin," Angel said smiling. "Good Morning, Mr. McKeon," she said smiling back. "I'll be in my office. So if I have any calls please hold them for me until ten, okay?" "Sure thing. Would you like your coffee now or later?" "You could bring it now," he said and then entered his office. As Karin made her way to his office she just couldn't help but notice the smile that was on her boss' face. She's seen him smile before tons of tomes, but this one was different. 'I wonder if Miss Summers has anything to do with that smile. It sure seemed that after their business meeting that he seemed happier. Could he be having an affair with her?' "Here you go. Mr. McKeon you seem very happy are you in love perhaps?" "Perhaps," he said with a smirk. ~*~*~*~*~* Angel sat in his office with his legs up on his desk while drinking his coffee. He was just relaxing with a smile on his face that was all because of certain blonde. Buffy sure had a way with him. She could do or say anything and it was like he was under her spell. She was definitely what he wanted and needed in his life. He has no idea what he's do if he didn't meet her. He'd probably be having a one-night-stand or just jerking off. "What am I going to do about my feelings for Buffy? I can't control my emotions any more. I don't know if I should tell her how I feel." Angel thoughts about Buffy and their relationship were just the beginning for him. He might actually reveal his feelings for Buffy sooner than later. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 10 10 It just seemed like the week flew by and the two lovers didn't have time to meet up. They only were able to have quick conversations because they were both busy with work. Though they did promise to meet one another at the hotel. They figured that they could do have one last memory at the hotel. Buffy was in her office thinking about what else she could do to make Angel be more adventurous and spontaneous. She knew that Angel was a good guy, but if she just gave an idea it became apparent that he was up for it. Either way she knew that this weekend would be so much fun. She headed out the door. ~*~*~*~*~* Angel was thrilled about seeing Buffy again. He hadn't known if his feelings for the blonde beauty were love. His emotions were beginning to toy with him over and over again. A part of him wished that he could explain the situation to someone else besides Spike. He threw that thought out of his mind when he spotted her. Buffy was standing in lobby checking into her room. She looked absolutely stunning in her black slip dress with spaghetti straps. 'She looks beautiful.' He started walking towards her when Buffy turned around at the same moment to see his face. "Hey," he said smiling as he pulled her into his embrace. "Hey right back at you," she said leaning on her tiptoes to kiss him. As the kiss deepened Angel pulled her even closer. ~*~*~*~*~* Though not too far away was a pair of female brown eyes that saw the intense kiss. 'So that's what he's been doing on his weekends. That's what made him happy. I knew something was up. I think I should say hello.' The mysterious woman that was soon to be revealed made her way towards the two lovers. "Angel." At the sound of a familiar voice that Angel heard all his life made him turn around. "Mom, what brings you here?" 'Oh, shit! This is bad. She's gonna tell Dad. I'm screwed.' "I came to see your sister Patricia. We plan to go shopping. Though it seems to me that this isn't a business matter," she said smiling. "Uh. Yeah." Angel was shocked. He couldn't just flat out tell his mother, 'Oh, guess what Mom, I found a woman that likes me for myself and not my money.' "You know What Angel, I think I should leave you with your mother," Buffy said and then kissed his cheek. Angel held her hand so she wouldn't go. "Don't go. Stay while I talk to my mother." "No, it's okay. It was good seeing you again, Mrs. McKeon." "Likewise, my dear." As soon as Buffy was out of their sight, Susan McKeon grabbed her son's arm and dragged him into the bar. "Okay Angel it's just me and you. So what's going on between you and Buffy?" "Mom! This isn't easy for me to say. Let alone to my own mother." "Just spit it out Angel." "I'm…I'm having an affair with Buffy." 'Okay there I said it.' "I figured that much," Susan said smiling. "What? When? How?" "I sort of figured it out at the restaurant. The way you two would look at one another and smile." "Yeah, we were." "So does Darla know or even suspect anything about you two?" "I don't think she does. Though I know she's been cheating on me with Lindsay McDonald." "My, my Darla sure gets around. So do you love her?" "You mean Darla? Hell no! I can't stand her." 'If you only knew how she really was.' "I didn't mean her and you know that perfectly well. Are you in love with Buffy?" "I guess so." "You guess so!" Susan then hit his arm. "Okay! Okay! Yes, I'm in love with Buffy." "So did you tell her yet?" "No, and I'm not planning to yet. I just wouldn't be able to live with myself if she rejected me." "She loves you Angel." "How do you know?" "It's in her eyes. She loves you enough to know that we're talking about her right now. That as a mother I would never approve of this. Though I realized that I was wrong to pressure you to marry Darla." "Thanks Mom. Though could you do me two favors?" "Sure. Name it." "Please don't tell Dad or Darla. I know that it would hurt his feelings. He always envisioned us together." "I promise. Now, I think you should go now. I don't want Buffy to be thinking that I kidnapped you." "Good one, Mom," he said laughing and then kissed his mother's cheek. 'My son's finally in love.' ~*~*~*~*~* Angel had a smile on his face as he steeped inside his hotel room. He spotted Buffy looking right at him. He noticed by her facial features that she was worried about his mother catching then in a heated embrace. "So how did things go with your mother? Does she hate me? She probably hates me," Buffy sighed. "Actually she doesn't hate you at all. She sees that you make me happy. She figured that something was going on between us." "Oh. So she's not gonna say anything at all?" "None whatsoever." 'Except for the part about me admitting my love for you.' "I guess that's good." "Very good actually," he said and then captured her lips into a kiss. "Hmm," she moaned as she deepened the kiss even more. Her arms just wrapped automatically around his neck bringing him closer to her. As his broad frame was pressed up against her petite frame, his hands began to roam all over her back. He just wanted to feel her soft, smooth skin against his fingertips and make her shiver. His fingers found the zipper of her dress as her fingers unbuttoned his shirt. He then slid her dress off as it fell to the floor leaving her in a strapless bra and panties. "You look beautiful," he said gazing at her hungrily. "Thank you." Angel quickly shed off his pants and his boxers as well leaving him completely naked. Buffy couldn't help but stare at him with all of his beautiful naked body before her. 'Ooh, I'm so lucky to have him even if he isn't mine to keep.' Buffy quickly shed off her underwear as well and walked up to him and rubbed her body against his. "Feeling up for some action?" Angel didn't respond though a certain par t of his body in the lower region did. "Well I guess that's a yes then," she said smiling wickedly. Angel made his way to the bed and lay down. Buffy then took that as her cue to straddle his hips. She looked into those brown eyes and smiled right at him. "So you ready to have some fun?" "Oh yeah," he smiled right back. She moved her hips closer to his erection, lifted herself up and slid herself right onto his erection. "Hmm," he hissed at the contact. Buffy began rocking her hips back and forth as getting the feel of him being inside of her. As Angel thrusted his hips forward as Buffy clenching her inner muscles onto his throbbing erection. The more they moaned, the more their climax was fastly approaching. "Oh, more Angel!" Buffy felt that with one more push everything would be complete. It was as if he read her mind and did just that. Buffy's breathing went down as she collapsed onto Angel's bare chest. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 11 Susan McKeon kept on wondering about her conversation with her son Angel. Angel’s in love with Buffy and apparently can’t stand Darla. She figured that she would have to speak to Patrick and see what his opinion was on Darla and Buffy. Susan truly doesn’t approve of the affair, but at the same time she noticed in her son’s face how happy Buffy Summers made her son feel. “Patrick, I need to ask you something.” “Sure, what is it honey?” “What do you think of Buffy Summers?” “She’s a nice young lady. Why you ask?” Patrick was wondering why his wife mentioned Buffy Summers to begin with. “Don’t you ever wish that we never arranged Angel’s marriage with Darla and he might have fallen for someone like Buffy?” “Oh, Susan you’ve got to be kidding me! Angel would never fall for her. She isn’t his type at all.” ‘Why is Susan even thinking about this?’ “Gee, Patrick you make Buffy sound like she isn’t worthy of our son. She’s a nice young lady that has a good head on her shoulders.” “Well I just think that Darla is best suited for our son and I was right. Speaking of Angel, when are you inviting him and Darla over?” “Actually I was planning to this Saturday.” ‘Oh, and you thinking that Darla is best suited for or son’s is in your mind Patrick; our son’s in love with Buffy Summers. I’m going to find out how much of a bitch as Angel would say that Darla really is.’ ~*~*~*~*~* Darla always loved shopping. Especially when it’s Angel’s money. Angel’s money and spending it just brought a smile to her face. “Ooh, I just can’t wait to head out and spend, spend, and spend” ‘I just can’t stand being with Angel’s mother. She’s always happy, caring and oh so thoughtful. Oh, please that makes me want to gag.’ Darla paid no attention as Angel entered the bedroom and looked right at her. He heard every word that she had just said. ‘So the bitch just can’t wait to spend my money huh? Well she won’t be able to spend as much as she’d like. I’ll make sure of that.’ “So you heading out with my mother for your let’s spend-Angel’s-money-until-we-max-out-the-credit-cards.” “Oh, like you care! You could give a shit about what I do with your money,” she said glaring at him. “Au contraire, my dear, I do care. I’m the one paying for the fucking credit card bills,” he said with a smirk. “Well I’m heading out. Don’t wait up for me,” she said and walked out the door. “I wouldn’t think of it,” Angel shouted. ‘I could care less. I’ll have some peace of mind for a couple of hours.’ ~*~*~*~*~* Darla had picked up Susan and they drove to the Los Angeles Mall. The drive to the mall was quiet because there wasn’t much to be said between daughter and mother-in-law. The most that these two ladies would ever have anything to say would either be business or Angel. “So Darla, what are you planning to buy Angel this Christmas coming up next month?” “I don’t know really. I haven’t thought that far along.” “Oh.” ‘My, my trouble in paradise. Since when isn’t a wife excited about buying her husband a Christmas gift. I know I always do when it comes to Patrick.’ They made it inside the mall and headed towards the women’s clothing on the third floor. Darla apparently had better wanting to shop for herself than rather for Angel’s Christmas gift. She needed to find that right gifts for herself. “Ooh, this dress looks fabulous. I’ll have to try it out. Oh, and here’s another one and another.” Darla picked up altogether three dresses and headed towards the dressing room. Susan in the meantime was checking out some gifts for her daughters. As for her sons she’ll find something once the leave. She had already picked out what she wanted. Darla looked herself over the floor length mirror as she wore each dress. She twirled herself around checking out which one of these dresses will be the chosen one. “What to do? What to do? So many choices, which such little time.” So as Darla was on her way out, she bumped into on of the sales ladies at the store. “Excuse me! Don’t you look before you walk?” “I’m sorry miss.” “Yeah, right,” Darla said and walked off. She then headed towards the register and stood right next to Susan McKeon. “I can’t believe the nerve of some people here.” “What happened Darla?” “This lady that works here just bumped right into me for no reason. I can’t believe how they hire such inconsiderate people.” “Well I hope she apologized.” “Oh, she did, but I can tell that she didn’t mean it. I know she’s a bitch. Just look at her,” Darla said pointing at the petite brunette. Susan looked over and recognized the young lady. It was her niece Mary. She’s one of the sweetest girls ever and one of Angel’s favorite cousins. “How dare you! That’s my niece you’ve insulted.” Susan then went over and talked to the young woman and left Darla. ‘Good riddens. No wonder Angel’s cheating on you.’ ~*~*~*~*~* Susan had decided to call her son and wondered what his plans were for tonight. She figured that is she invited Darla and him over that it’s be easier on him. Susan picked up the phone and dialed seven digits and waited for the ring. “Hello,” said Angel. “Angel, how are you?” “Mom! I’m fine. All things considered.” “Good. Could you and Darla come over for dinner tonight at the house?” “Sure thing. You know I don’t miss a chance for a home cooked meal,” he said smiling. “Okay. See you at six.” “Six, it is. Bye.” “Bye.” ~*~*~*~*~* Angel and Darla were sitting in the living room of The McKeon Residence. Angel was thrilled that his mother invited him to dinner. He would never miss an opportunity for his mother’s home cooking. He really didn’t care that he had Darla with him because she didn’t matter to him at all. “Dinner’s ready,” Susan said entering the living room. Everyone stood up and entered the dinning room and sat down to eat. As everyone was eating Patrick McKeon decided to strike up a conversation. “So when are you two going to make me a grandfather?” “Darla, doesn’t want children,” Angel said looking at his wife. “Isn’t that right, dear?” Angel asked. “Yes, it is.” “Oh. That’s just too bad. I know how much Angel love his nieces and nephews,” Susan answered sadly. “It’s okay Mom. If I want children, it won’t ever be with Darla,” Angel said smirking. Patrick McKeon just couldn’t understand how his son and daughter were acting. He noticed the looks that they passed on to each other. It seemed that these two weren’t happy with each other. “What’s going on here?! How could you say such a thing like that in front of your wife?” “Don’t you remember Dad, Darla wasn’t in my agenda of getting married, but you insisted. We don’t love each other. I wish I could divorce her, but I can’t remember, Dad?” Patrick McKeon just sat there on his chair speechless. He had no idea how far things have gone. Though he didn’t care about his son’s happiness. It was a business transaction after all Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 12 Christmas was approaching the residents of California especially for the two cities of Sunnydale and Los Angeles. Angel’s family company McKeon Industries was getting ready to have their annual Christmas party. Angel was thrilled for this year’s party. It was all because of a certain blonde. He decided to give her a call and give her a surprise. “Hello,” she said. “Hi Buffy,” Angel said smiling at the other end of the line. “Angel,” she said smiling. She was surprised that he called her. “How are you? I also wanted to ask you what you’re doing this Friday?” “Fine actually. I’m free why you ask?” “I want to invite you over to the annual Christmas party at my family’s business,” he said proudly. “Aren’t you very straight forward. So you’re ready to be seen in public with me in front of all your employees?” “In any way possible. Besides Willow and Xander will be there as well.” Buffy’s smile immediately fell off her face as soon as Angel mentioned her friends. It was as if they were a smoke screen. ‘Now’s not the time to get emotional and worked up. You can’t take this relationship seriously. You are here to have some fun while it lasts.’ “Sure. I’ll probably be heading to Willow’s house instead of the hotel. I can’t wait for Friday. I’ll see you then.” ~*~*~*~*~* Friday just happed and made it’s way to the end of the working day. It was also the annual Christmas party. All the workers each had a Secret Santa and Angel’s gift to his employees would be a nice Christmas bonus. The Christmas spirit was everywhere throughout McKeon Industries. The doors adorned Christmas wreaths. As for the inside the lobby, stood a 30ft tree adorned with lights, ornaments, candy canes and tinsel with a star on top. Then as you moved along towards the elevators leading you the different departments you would see twinkling lights just flashing all of it’s colors. No matter where you were in the building there no way you wouldn’t be able to in the Christmas spirit. ~*~*~*~*~* Angel was up in his office and he was counting the hours before Buffy arrived. He was hoping that maybe he’d surprise Buffy and they could get some alone time. ‘Now where could we do it? Hmm, I think I have an idea.’ Angel’s smile just grew wider. He had that smile plastered on his face that he didn’t even noticed when Spike decided to drop by and say hello. “So let me take a wild guess and say that Buffy put that smile on your face,” Spike said entering Angel’s office. “Who else would it be? It definitely can’t be that bitch of a wife that I have. So you just stopped by to say hi?” “Yeah, you could say that. I need to ask you something about getting a Christmas gift for Faith.” “You’re falling for her. Ha! I knew it. You should get her something that strikes her personality. I don’t know maybe handcuffs,” Angel said laughing. “Oh, sure you’re laughing at me, but I have the feeling that you’re fallen for Buffy and haven’t admitted it to yourself yet. So what do you have in mind for Buffy maybe some candlelight dinner and wild passionate sex on a bed of roses?” “Even if I fallen for her, I’m not telling you. As for what I’m giving Buffy for a Christmas gift, it’s none of your concern,” Angel said seriously. It’s true that his feelings for Buffy were growing, but he wasn’t ready to admit to someone else unless it was Buffy. ~*~*~*~*~* The Christmas party was beginning to take its course. The Christmas music was on and everyone was singing along. Some of the workers invited their significant others to enjoy the festivities as well. Buffy told Willow and Xander that she was coming and they were thrilled. Buffy couldn’t wait to see Angel and wondered what kind of surprise he had in store for her. She stepped into the office and spotted Karin sitting by her desk with a man talking to her. Buffy walked right on over to her to say hi. “Hi Karin.” “Oh, hi Miss Summers so nice to see you again. You’re here to see Mr. McKeon?” “Actually yes, but I’m looking for my friends. I think I just spotted them. I’m sorry for interrupting your conversation.” “It’s okay. Oh and Merry Christmas.” “You too.” As Buffy was on her way to greet Willow and Xander a pair of strong hands grabbed her. She automatically sensed that it was Angel touching her. “Hi,” he said smiling. “Hi. I was just about to see Willow and Xander and you just grabbed me away from them,” she said smiling back. “Well I wanted to see you before meet them. Besides I want to dance with you.” “I don’t want to.” “You’re upset with me because of what I said earlier, aren’t you?” “Maybe. It’s just the way you said it. It was like you wanted me around because my friends work for,” she said sadly. “I’m sorry. So could you find it in your heart to forgive me?” “Okay. I forgive you.” “So you’ll dance with me then?” “Sure.” Angel took her hand in his and they walked to the center of the room and began dancing. Angel wished that he could have held Buffy closer, but couldn’t because it would raise suspicions. “So you’re enjoying yourself?” Angel asked. “Sure,” she said smiling. “I wished that I could hold you closer in my arms. That I could make you feel what I’m feeling right now.” “What would that be?” “That I want you. I need you.” “I feel the same way.” “So let’s go to my office then.” As Angel let Buffy past right in front of her passing through a throng of people, Willow was letting her eyes stayed firmly locked on those two. She then spotted Angel and Buffy going inside his office. ‘So that’s your new boyfriend, huh? No wonder you couldn’t tell me. He’s married.’ ~*~*~*~*~* Angel closed the door behind him so that no one would come in and interrupt them. He looked right at Buffy and smiled. She made her way towards him, pulled his tie down and kissed him. “Hmm,” Angel moaned and pulled Buffy closer into his arms holding her tightly. He deepened the kiss by parting her lips with his tongue and letting it slide inside and flicking hers with his. “Hmm,” Buffy moaned at Angel’s contact. Her little hands began to wander over his chest as she pulled the hem of his shirt out of his pants. She then unbuckled his belt, followed by the button and then the zipper. Angel’s hands had a mind of their own. They slipped underneath feeling her thighs against his fingertips. He then slipped his fingers inside the waistband of her panties and pulled them down. Angel lifted her legs and he held her as they walked towards his sofa. He set her gently on the sofa. “So you ready for some action?” He then slid his hands on glided on her thighs caressing, squeezing her then let his thumbs massage her hips moving lower to her shave less mound making little circles. “Ooh,” she moaned. The touch of his fingers was on most sensitive part of her body. “I guess that’s a yes then.” Angel took out his throbbing erection from the slit opening of his boxers. Then he slid inside of her with such ease. “Hmm,” They both moaned together. As Angel’s hands remained firmly at her hips, he kept moving in and out of her silken walls. As Angel kept going in and out of Buffy, she felt so good. He knew exactly which way to move inside of her to make her moan asking for more. “Oh, Angel!” Her climax was fastly approaching and all she needed was one more push into the right direction. It was if Angel felt his won climax as well and pushed once more. “Ugh,” Angel sighed. He then lay on top of Buffy, but made sure not crush her. “That was amazing,” he whispered in her ear. “You wanna do it again?” Buffy asked. “You’re not tired?” “Oh, just give a couple of minutes and I’ll be ready for round two.” Angel just laughed at her response. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 13 Willow's suspicions were right on the money when it came to Buffy. Buffy had never told her whom she was going out with. Willow knew why. Her long time friend was going out with a married man that happened to be her boss. She just couldn't believe that Buffy somehow manipulate Angel into doing that. Willow knew that the only way to know for sure that if she saw what was real was to confront Buffy about it. If Buffy admitted the whole situation with Angel, she sure wanted to ask her why. 'Why would someone as smart and beautiful as Buffy would stoop herself into getting a man, by stealing someone else's? Buffy could find a nice, single guy that would be attracted to her,' Willow called Buffy in her cell phone. "Hey Buffy." "Hey Willow." "I was wondering if you wanna spend some time with me so we could talk. I have something that I wanted to ask you." "Sure thing. I'll be there in a while." ~*~*~*~*~* Buffy had made it to Willow's house. Though before she rang the bell, she wondered what was it that Willow couldn't ask her on the phone. 'It's not like she knows anything. I never told her about Angel because she wouldn't understand. Buffy was beginning to fell that she's in love with Angel. Buffy rang the bell and waited for Willow. "Hey Buffy. It's so great to see you," Willow said hugging her friend. "You too Willow." Buffy stepped inside the house and sat down on the sofa. "Buffy, I've got to ask you this one question." "Sure fire away." "Are you sleeping with Angel McKeon?" "What?" 'How could she know? Angel and I have been very careful. Though besides the both of us, his mother knows as well.' "You heard me. Are you sleeping with Angel McKeon?" Willow asked again. 'I have no other choice but to answer her honestly.' "Yes, I am." 'Well she wanted the truth.' "I can't believe you Buffy. How could you get involved with a married man? What were you thinking when you started this tryst with my boss? Don't you have any morals? Is it that hard for you to get a man, which you stooped so low to prostitute yourself like that?" Buffy took in every word that Willow told her. She felt so much pain erupting inside her heart. There was no way that she was going to let Willow bring her down. "Yes, I know exactly what I was doing when I got involved with Angel! I'm perfectly aware that he's married." "Is that all you have to say to defend yourself?" "No. I'm no slut. I have my morals. I'm not fucking his wife. He's the one I'm fucking with." "Oh, great Buffy. You've changed completely. I don't even know you anymore. Next thing I know your gonna tell me that you're in love with him." "Actually I am." "Oh, please it's not love, it's lust. You want something that you can't have. Besides has Angel ever told you that he loves you?" "No, but I know he does. I see it in his eyes. The way he makes me feel is love." "Get real Buffy. Angel's a married. In the end Angel's gonna pick his wife over you. All married men have their affairs, but always come running home to their wives." "Angel doesn't love Darla. He never has." "Well all I can say is, I see you in a totally different way. You're a back stabber, husband grabber and all you care about is your own selfish needs," Willow said angrily. "I guess there's no other way to say this. Our friendship is over. I thought that I could depend on you, but apparently not. I'll be leaving. You don't have to walk me to the door. I know my way out," Buffy said getting up and walking towards the door. ~*~*~*~*~* Buffy had to control her emotions because if she didn't start crying and never stop. She needed to see him, so that he could make things. She had to see Angel. Buffy dialed his office number on his personal line. She didn't want Karin to hear her voice sounding so sad and unhappy. After two rings Angel picked up the phone. "Hello. Angel McKeon speaking," he said cheerfully. There was a moment of silence and then he heard a sniffling sound as if someone is crying. "Hello," he said again. He wondered who would be calling him and start crying on the phone. "Angel," she said sadly. "Buffy, what's wrong?" "Everything. I need to see you." "So come here. No one's in today Karin has the day off." "Okay. I'll be on my way." ~*~*~*~*~* Angel waited patiently in his office for Buffy to arrive. He wanted to know what had made her so upset that she started crying. As Angel kept looking at the clock with the minutes ticking away, he finally heard the door opened and in came in Buffy. Buffy wore loose jeans with a tank top with a long sleeved flannel shirt on top. Her blonde hair was in a ponytail. Her eyes looked red from crying and so she was her nose. She looked right at Angel and gave him a sad smile. "Angel," she said sadly. "Buffy," he said walking towards her. He opened his arms and she went right in. he held her closely, gently rubbing her back. "Buffy, sweetie tell me what happened?" She looked into his brown eyes and nodded her head. They both sat down on his couch. Her head was on his chest just leaning there as his arm held her. Angel placed a finger under her chin and lifted her face. "Tell me what happened?" he asked. "I went to see Willow today. She asked me if I was sleeping with you." "Wow." "I know, but that isn't the worst part. She asked me what was I thinking about getting involved with a married man. That how could I do something like that? She told me that don't I have any morals. It just kept getting worse Angel," she said with tears streaming down her cheek. He took his thumb and wiped away her tears. "I guess Willow has definitely made up her mind about us and about you." He just couldn't believe that Willow would make Buffy feel worthless. "You wanna know the worst part. She told me that I was a back stabber, husband grabber and having sex with you is for my own selfish reasons," she said and began sobbing again. "You aren't any of those things. You're a beautiful woman and I care for you deeply. I don't know what I'd do if you didn't come into my life," he said while rubbing her back. Buffy lifted her head and looked up at him. "Really? You actually mean that?" "Yes, I do Buffy." "I'm sorry about crying all over your shirt." "It's okay. It's replaceable, you aren't." he said with a smile. Buffy smiled right back at him. He then wiped the remaining tears that were shed. He then kissed her forehead, her nose and finally her lips. "Don't worry everything's gonna be alright." 'I don't ever want to lose you Buffy.' Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 14 14 Even though Willow's words affected Buffy a whole lot, once she went to see Angel she felt better. He was able to confront her in a totally different way. He held her, wiped her tears and listened to her. That was a plus factor that her previous relationships lacked. Though Riley had all that going for him, though there was something missing. She wasn't in love with him as she is with Angel. Buffy was lying on her bed just relaxing and feeling the comfort of her sheets beneath her. She wasn't too crazy for silk or satin sheets. The comfort of cotton sheets was alluring enough for her. They felt cool, soft and comfortable against her body. She knew for sure how she'd get Angel coming over to her house in a flash. 'Ooh, the fun we're going to have. I wonder if he'll be up for it.' ~*~*~*~*~* Well the afternoon was fastly approaching and Buffy decided that now was the time to start and have some fun. She knew Angel's cell phone number by heart and dialed waiting for him to answer. "Angel McKeon here. This better be important," he said seriously. "Well is that how you greet all your clients that become investors in your company?" "Buffy," he said smiling. "Good guess. I was wondering are you busy right now?" "Not really. Why you ask?" "Well I have a bit of a challenge for you." "Okay. Tell me." "Here it goes. I'm naked and you have twenty minutes before I start putting my clothes back on." Angel nearly chocked at her words. 'Buffy's naked! In her bed all alone waiting for me. I better get going.' "Bye," he said and quickly hung up the phone and rushed right out the door. ~*~*~*~*~* If there was a first time that Angel broke any speed laws, it was today. He heard the words naked and in bed which sent the lower region of his body feeling very aroused. He quickly parked his car on her driveway and made it to the door, which apparently was open. Angel climbed up the steps tow at a time and then called out her name. "Buffy, where are you?" "I'm in the second door to your left. I'm waiting," she said and then laughed. Angel made his way to her bedroom and was amazed at what he saw. Buffy had her legs crossed with her palms resting on the mattress with a smile across her face. "Well what are you waiting for? Don't you want me?" he said batting her eyes at him. He could only nod his head in response and quickly began shedding off his clothes. Angel was only left in completely naked just lie the day he was born. He walked over to the bed in a very quick pace and straddled Buffy's hips. "You have been a very bad girl. Didn't your mother ever told you that you shouldn't threaten anyone like that?" he asked with a smirk. "Actually it as a threat. It's more like a challenge. I wanted to see if you wee up for it," she said smiling back. She then took a hold of his erection and pulled it slightly to cause Angel to moan. "Apparently you are up for the challenge," she said smiling back wickedly. "You bet I am." He too his knee and parted her legs open. He then took his forefinger and slid it up her clit feeling how wet she was for him. She moaned at his touch and wanted him to do more. "More," she begged. He kept on gliding his finger, but added another and then began pinching her clit. "Ooh," she moaned. He knew exactly what buttons to push or rather what places to pinch her to make her feel the shivers all over her body. Angel then removed his fingers and adjusted himself right in between her legs. As he kept moving in and out of her, his hands found her breasts squeezing them gently feeling how full and soft they were in his strong hands. His head went down and captured on of her nipples and began sucking it. Buffy's hand went through the short brown hairs on the nape of his neck and pushed him further into her breast. Angel's lips kept on sucking, and then he flicked his tongue to lick her nipple. He went over to the other one as the unattended breast, which was wet and exposed to the cool air that permeated in the room. As Angel kept a steady pace going in and out of her Buffy's orgasm was reaching its peak. "Oh! Angel!" she screamed. The rush of her orgasm over took her body. Angel laid next to her pulling her damp body against his and kissed her forehead. Angel's feelings for Buffy were beginning to change and he wonder what Buffy would think. Little did he know Buffy felt the same way. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 15 Buffy woke up the next day with her head on Angel’s shoulder. She knew for sure that it was his warm, hard chest that she felt against her cheek. She wanted nothing more but to stay in his arms forever. ‘Where did that thought come from? Do I feel that way about him?’ Buffy looked up and noticed that he was still asleep. ‘He looks so peaceful sleeping. I wonder what he’s thinking about?’ She slowly removed his arm from her waist and made hr way out of bed. Buffy found her terry cloth robe and slipped it on. Angel on the hand noticed or rather felt Buffy’s body moved away from him. He had one eye opened slightly and saw Buffy’s nude body slip right into her robe. ‘I could get use to Buffy in my life. I think she’s the one for me.’ “Where do you think you’re going?” Angel asked. “I’m going to get something to eat,” she said smiling. “I’ll be joining you. Just give me a second,” he said getting out of bed and putting his boxers on then his pants. He then put his shirt on leaving it unbuttoned leaving his chest fully exposed. He made his way to her, pulled her into his arms and kissed her. “I’m ready now.” ~*~*~*~*~* Downstairs inside the kitchen both Buffy and Angel were sitting by the table just staring at each other. Buffy smiled at him and let her foot hike up his pant leg. She knew that the effect of her foot against him would make him sigh and he did. Since she could tell that he was enjoying himself she kept on going higher. “You keep that up and I might not be able to stay in these clothes,” he said holding her leg underneath the table. “And that’s a bad thing,” she said smiling wickedly. “No, but I thought you wanted to eat.” “Yeah. I’m going to order pizza.” ~*~*~*~*~* They had finished eating their pizza and Angel had to get going. One of the reasons was because Buffy kept tempting him while eating her pizza pulling the strings of cheese onto her fingers sucking it slowly into her mouth. He swallowed a lump that happened to form in his throat. “I better get going,” he said standing up. “Don’t you wanna stay for dessert?” Buffy asked licking her lips sticking her pink tongue out teasing him with a smile on her face. “I need to go now before,” he said but made no move to the door. “Before what?” she asked walking towards him. “Before I take you. Right here, right now,” he said with his brown eyes looking at her hungrily. “So why don’t you then? I’m here. I’m yours,” she said with her hands touching his chest. “I can’t. I have to go. I’ll see you soon,” he said removing her hands and then quickly kissing her. He then walked out the door. ~*~*~*~*~* Angel made it home and walked right in to see his dog Bertha Blue waiting for him. She kept on barking waiting for her owner to talk to her and pet her. “Hey there girl. You missed me huh?” Bertha barked and licked his face. Angel then petted her and went upstairs to change out of his clothes. He then went downstairs to his office and sat behind his desk. As he sat in his chair he took the remote of his CD player and pushed play and listened to the music play and started thinking about Buffy. ‘‘So is Buffy the one person that I’m truly meant to be with? I know that I’m in love with her, but does she feel the same way. Should I take the risk of divorcing Darla and be with Buffy?’ Bertha Blue looked at her owner and saw how sad he was. She laid her head in between his with her brown eyes looking into his. “I don’t know what to do girl? I’m falling in love with Buffy more and more every time that I see her. She’s on my mind constantly. Every time when she’s not around, I miss her. It’s getting harder not to stay away from her. She makes me happy. She’s what I’ve always wanted in a woman, a wife, and lover. Though there is a part of me that feels maybe she doesn’t love me the way I love her.” ‘What am I going to do?’ ~*~*~*~*~* Buffy was sitting on her couch with her legs tucked underneath. She had a mug of hot chocolate in her hands and took a sip. As the hot liquid went down her throat all her thoughts drifted to Angel. She was beginning to wonder what were they. ‘Are we a couple? Of course we’re lovers, but am I in love with him? Is my attraction towards him pure lust or is it love?’ “What am I going to do about Angel? Maybe Willow’s right about us. Maybe when Angel’s done with me he’ll go back to Darla. Who am I kidding? I’m in love with Angel. Though is Angel in love with me?” As Buffy continued drinking her hot chocolate she listened to the lyrics of the song. It was like as if the words that were sang by the woman was reflecting her feelings, emotions and love for Angel. Love it babe. Love it babe. Baby you don't know, what you do to me. Between me and you, I feel a chemistry. Won't let no one come and take your place. Cause the love you give can't be replaced. See no one else love me like you do. That's why I want to spend my life with you. Wanna please you in anyway I can. Wanna share my world don't you understand. *Your love is a one in a million it goes on and on and on you give me a really good feelin all day long. Your love is a one in a million it goes on and on and on you give me a really good feelin all day long. Turn me inside out make my heart speak. Don't want nobody else you are all I need. Personality (ty) in everything you do (do) Makes me love everything bout you. Your smile your style so fly I can't deny I got a crush on you and that's true indeed. I'm diggin you your makin me believe. *Your love is a one in a million it goes on and on and on you give me a really good feelin all day long. Your love is a one in a million it goes on and on and on you give me a really good feelin all day long. * I'll give you anything you want from me anything you want anything you need anything your soul desires I'll give you anything you want from me anything you want anything you need anything your soul desires*Your love is a one in a million it goes on and on and on You give me a really good feelin all day long. Love it babe. love it babe. love it babe Buffy felt that Angel wasn’t using her and going to toss her aside. She felt that in her heart that Angel’s the one that she wants. As the lyrics said I’ll give you anything you want from me. Anything you. Anything you desire. Buffy had this one fear though. That even though she knew Angel wasn’t using her, she was afraid that if she loved him too much, that it would end. “Why do I even complicate things even more my thinking that? You know why. I just wonder when should I confess my love to him.” “Why did I have to fall for a married man? Why couldn’t Angel be single? It would have made things easier.” ‘Though at the same time you like the thrill of having Angel sneaking around and having sex. It excites you. It’s an adrenaline rush that you never want it to end.’ “I’m in love with Angel. He makes me feel like a woman that should be loved. His touch, his lips, his eyes, and his voice just make my heart all tingly. I want him with me forever.” ~*~*~*~*~* Angel was still sitting in his office contemplating his feelings for Buffy. To him it just wasn’t sex anymore. He wanted to treat Buffy like the woman she deserved to be, She deserved honesty, respect, and love. She needed a man to make love to her, please her and make her feel that she’s the only woman in his life. Though Angel had no clue as to what approach to establish with Buffy. ‘Why can’t I just get a divorce from Darla and move onto Buffy? You know why. Your father. I just feel like telling my father fuck you and your rules. I’m in love with Buffy Summers.’ Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 16 Both lovers never touched upon their inner feelings, emotions and love for one another. They both remained foolish and silent never stating anything. So they did what they always knew best, which was having fun. Angel wanted to have a nice dinner with Buffy with no sex involved whatsoever. No matter whenever they met up with each other, they always ended up tearing each other’s clothes off and having wild, passionate sex. Just that mere thought brought a smile to his face. ‘I have to stop thinking about her in a sexual way. She’s a woman. A beautiful woman that I can’t keeps my hands off.’ “Control yourself. You can do this. You can spend a couple of hours with her without touching her,” he said to himself. Angel took a deep breath and then dialed the seven digits that he knew by memorization and waited for her to pick up. “Hey Angel,” she said cheerfully. “How did you know that it was me?” “That’s easy. I have caller ID,” she said laughing. Her laughter just brought an instant smile to his face. It also brought a feeling inside. “I was wondering if you were busy and maybe you could tear yourself away for a moment and be with me?” “Hmm…a moment with you? Let me think about it.” “Well you better think fast. I might just not give you think Christmas gift that I have for you. I just might give it my mother,” he said laughing. He knew perfectly well that his mother wouldn’t like one of the gifts. “You better not give your mother my gift. Besides I have something fro you too.” “Oh, and pack up some clothes. I’m taking you somewhere where we’ll be alone. Just the two of is.” “Where? What should I bring?” “I’m not saying. Oh, you can bring jeans t-shirts. You know anything that’s relaxing.” “Okay. So when you coming by?” “In about two hours. See you then.” ~*~*~*~*~* Angel made it to Buffy’s place and as he walked up her porch, she opened the door letting him in. “Hi. I’m almost done. I just gotta leave Faith a note.” “Okay.” Angel admired Buffy’s house and noticed how nicely furnished it was. She had pictures of her friends and family in picture frames throughout the house. They all had happy smiles n their faces. He took a seat on the brown couch and gazed down at the oriental carpet looking at the designs. Angel then went up the flight of stairs and found Buffy’s room by the vanilla scent that permeated the air. He stepped inside the room and noticed Buffy bent down. He had a nice view of her ass. Apparently the Lee blue jeans that she wore were nice and tight in all the right places. ‘How am I going to restrain myself? I can’t believe I made a promise to myself to not have sex with Buffy this weekend. I must be in love. I must be an idiot.’ “Buffy, are you ready?” ‘Please be ready.’ “Yeah, let’s go.” ‘I guess by the way he’s staring at me, he must be thinking something naughty.’ Buffy walked out the door with a sway of her hips. Angel’s brown eyes stayed glued to Buffy’s behind watching them swat and noticed how her jeans were snug and like second skin. ‘It looks like she has no underwear on. I’m such an idiot.’ ~*~*~*~*~* Angel drove on the highway and arrived at a cottage. Buffy just looked at the house and the scenery and fell in love with it. The colors of the house were pale blue with a framing on the windows. It felt like home. The way all the furniture was arranged and the fixtures and knickknacks were arranges just made you want to stay here forever. Buffy was picturing in her mind that aroma of baked cookies coming out of the oven. Then over where the fireplace was the fire would be cracking bringing a warm, cozy atmosphere. The best part of her revelation was that Angel was sitting by the fireplace with her sitting in front of him. His hands were wrapped around her waist. “Buffy! Buffy!” Angel shouted her name for the third time. “Oh, I’m sorry Angel. It’s just that this place is so beautiful,” she said smiling. “I’m glad that you liked it. It belongs to my family. I use to come here as a kid during the summer. The whole family would spend the vacation here.’ “That must have been fun.” “It sure was. Come one let me give you a tour of the house and show you our room,” he said taking her hand. ~*~*~*~*~* Buffy really liked being away from everyone and spending some alone time with Angel. It just felt great that being with him in a romantic way just enjoying his company. She wanted to know more things about him. The stuff that any woman would know about a man that she has a relationship with. They had both finished eating their meal that Angel cooked which consisted of spaghetti with marinara sauce, grilled chicken, a Cesar salad with red wine. Buffy just savored the food by enjoying the seasoning of all the spices that were in the meal. They were both sitting by the fireplace looking the fire with the wood cracking bringing in a warm feeling into the house. Angel’s arms were wrapped around Buffy’s waist holding her securely. She leaned her back onto his broad chest that was covered by a black t-shirt. Buffy let her fingertips touch Angel’s forearm feeling how smooth, soft and strong his skin was. She then moved her hands feeling the texture of his denim jeans on his thighs gently squeezing them. Angel moved his hands and placed them on her arms gliding his fingertips over her creamy, soft skin. He then bent his head and leaned into the crook of her neck and started kissing the exposed skin. He continued on then by sticking out his tongue licking, leaving a wet trail and found his refuge in her lips. As soon as their lips made contact it was magnetic. Buffy quickly turned her body around straddling his hips placing her fingers through the short brown hairs n the nape of his neck. “Hmm,” she moaned loving the feeling of Angel’s tongue playing with hers. He pulled her even closer to his body not leaving any space at all. Angel knew that he wasn’t supposed to go on. He promised himself that this weekend wouldn’t consist of sex. ‘You have to pull away before you reach for her shirt and slip your fingers underneath. Stop now.’ “Buffy, we can’t. I mean I can’t,” he said breathlessly. “Why not? Don’t you want me?” she asked with her lips all red and pouty. “Of course I do. But I promised myself that I wouldn’t have sex with you,” he said seriously. ‘I can’t believe that I told her that. What was I thinking? She’ll probably thinks I’m insane.’ “It’s okay. I don’t mind at all.” ‘I think that it’s so sweet of him to do that. I guess that maybe he does have feelings of love for me if he does this. Now why can’t he just say those words to me.’ She then looked at him and saw the love and kindness in his eyes. She leaned her head in and placed her lips upon his and started kissing again. Angel pulled her into his embrace again feeling how soft and smooth her lips are. They stopped kissing and Buffy sat back and looked at the fireplace as her hands were on top of Angel with his fingers entwined with hers. ~*~*~*~*~* The day before they left Angel had remembered that he was to give Buffy her Christmas present. He just hoped that she would love them. As he went inside his bag to retrieve her gifts, Buffy did the same and waited for him by the fireplace. Angel sat down and looked across at Buffy. The fire was crackling, the flames were nice and orange giving a warm air that went throughout the room. He then handed her Christmas gift. “Merry Christmas Buffy,” he said and then kissed her. She took the red box from him and opened it revealing a green teddy that would reach her mid thigh. She lifted it up and looked at it and then noticed a small box as well. To Buffy’s curiosity she wondered what could be in that box. As she opened it up it was a bottle of her favorite perfume Chanel Number 19. “How did you know?” “I could tell whenever I smelled your perfume,” he said smiling. “That’s sweet of you to say. Oh, here’s your gift as well,” Buffy said handing him a black bag. Angel went through all the white tissue paper and found a pair of black boxers. “I can tell what you’re thinking,” he said grinning. “Well you’ve been a good boy this year. So I made sure you got what you deserved. Merry Christmas, my Angel. Oh, and the teddy that you gave me just might appear out of nowhere next time,” she said smiling wickedly. ~*~*~*~*~* The weekend between the two lovers was nice and romantic. It was the way that Angel wanted. Through his body or rather a certain part of his body needed attention. He just ignored that factor and told himself that he’d take care of it when he got home. Buffy on the other hand felt bad for Angel. She knew that he made a promise to himself to not to have sex, but that didn’t mean that she couldn’t please him in other ways. They were both in his car driving back to Sunnydale just relaxing and enjoying their time together. Angel would look over at Buffy and smile from time to time. Though it seemed that every time that he’d look at her and gaze at her body a tightness would form in the crotch area of his blue jeans. ‘I have to stop thinking about wanting to take her and tear her clothes apart. I just need to drop her home and then release this aching pain afterwards.’ It seemed that the traffic was getting congested and the cars weren’t moving at al. So Buffy decided that maybe a bit of a distraction might work for the two of them. She scooted over so that she was right next to Angel. Angel looked her way and smiled. Buffy on the other hand just took her hand and began stroking his jean clad thigh. Her fingers began caressing the denim fabric gliding them up and down in a steady pace. “Buffy, what are you doing?” Angel asked. He knew exactly what she was doing. She was getting him turned on and it was working. “I’m going to make you feel better,” she said smiling. Her fingers then found its place on the zipper of his jeans. As if she’s done this a million times before she gently let the zipper slide down. As Angel heard the metal zipper going down, his mind was just going crazy. ‘What is she going to do? Is she going to give me a blowjob? Well whatever it is I know I won’t be able to control myself.’ Buffy started kissing Angel’s neck and then took his earlobe into her mouth. She began sucking it gently flicking her tongue. “Hmm,” Angel moaned. Oh, he didn’t want her to stop, but he also realized that they were outside. He had to think rationally before things got out of control. “Buffy, you have to stop,” Angel said out of breath. ‘No, you deserve this,” he said whispering in his ear. Her hot breath just brought shivers down his spine. Buffy continued her ministrations by placing her hot fingers inside the slit of his boxers and grabbed a hold of his throbbing erection. “Well someone’s hard,” she said huskily. She then began gliding her fingers up and down his hard shaft making him moan with anticipation. As Buffy was keeping a steady pace, Angel’s hands stayed firmly on the steering wheel for support. The feel of her the ridges of his hard shaft was beginning to get wet due to the semen that was making a nice lubrication. Buffy just kept on going being encouraged by Angel’s moans. “Ugh,” Angel grunted. He grabbed the steering wheel firmly and his knuckles were white with no blood flowing through them. Angel’s semen squirted underneath the steering wheel and all over Buffy’s hand. Buffy grabbed a napkin a glove compartment and handed to Angel so he could clean himself up. Buffy on the other hand just licked it right off her hand. Angel fixed up his jeans and looked over at Buffy. “You are something else,” he said smiling. “Don’t I know it,” she said smiling back. The drive back to Sunnydale was tension free and relaxing. Angel could get the thought out of his mind that Buffy sure had made him feel better. He held that release of sexual frustration that only Buffy could provide for him. ~*~*~*~*~* Angel walked Buffy to the steps of her house to wish her goodbye. “So I hope you enjoyed this weekend as much as I have?” Angel asked. “Sure. It’s one that I won’t forget. Oh, and I know that I said this already, but thanks for my Christmas present.” “Your welcome. It’ll look good on you. I gotta go. So I’ll see you soon okay?” He then captured her lips into a kiss leaving her breathless. “Okay.” Angel walked off and went into his car as Buffy stepped inside her house and was surprised to see the face her. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 17 The two lovers had spent their romantic weekend just remembering the fun that they had spent. It seemed that these two were finally reaching a point into their relationship that it wasn’t lust but love. Both if them admitted to themselves and to others that they are in love. So what’s the problem of revealing that you’re in love with a person that makes you happy? In most a cases it‘s fear; the fear of when you say those three words I LOVE YOU can either make things better or just make things more complicated. So what’s the next best thing to do? There’s always a good memory to make you just forget for the time being. Buffy and Angel each have a memory or fantasy of one another that sticks out perfectly in their mind. Angel was in the bathroom getting ready for his shower before going off to bed. It seemed like throughout the day at work his mind was focused o his blonde beauty. It just seemed that every time when someone on his staff would be talking about something, he would zone out. One specific person would be Willow Rosenberg. He still hadn’t confronted her about what she said about Buffy though for now he didn’t want to think about that. As Angel stepped into the shower and began to wash his body all his thoughts drifted off to Buffy and a moment to remember. The both of them were in bed in their underwear lying right next to each other. Buffy looked into his brown eyes and felt that intense gaze that he sent her. She leaned in and kissed him on the lips. Angel in return pulled her closer into his embrace and while he continued kissing her, his hands found it’s way to her bra and unclasped it. His hands then slowly slipped right though her bra straps sliding them off. As the kissing increased between them, he let his tongue out and parted her lips seeking entryway into hers. His hands then cupped her breasts feeling the fullness of them. “Hmm,” she moaned into his mouth. She released the kiss and started laying wet kisses down his broad chest while her breasts brushed up against his body causing him to shiver which in return caused her nipples to get hard. She stopped laying wet kisses at the elastic band of his boxers. Buffy looked up at him and smiled. She then proceeded on by slipping her small hands in the waistband of his boxers and slid them off. As she slipped off his boxers, she squeezed his firm behind causing him to moan. “Oh,” he moaned. Buffy placed her hand on his erection and began stroking him up and down in a steady pace. She kissed the tip and then letting her pink tongue stick out tasting him. Her tongue then proceeded on by licking him root to tip every so slowly with such expertise. As her tongue was licking him from root to tip, she could feel how soft, but yet hard his erection is. Her mouth opened Angel’s in the shower reliving the memory as if he was right there now in the moment with Buffy. He had one hand leaning on the white tiles of his shower wall, while the other grabbed onto his erection and began stroking it up and down at a fast pace which started to cause a shiver in his groin area. Buffy used her teeth and gently grazed it along the length of his member and stopped at the tip and began sucking again. She moved her mouth even further taking as much of him as possible. Her head was bobbing up and down at a fast pace with Angel’s hand still inside her hair until, until his hips jerked up causing him to come inside her mouth all the way shooting down in her throat. Buffy lifted her head, licked her lips and smiled up at him. “High Protein Diet,” she said smiling wickedly. “Huh? What are you talking about?” “You taste so good,” she said and then laughed. Angel went down to where she was and grabbed her into his arms and kissed her. “You have such a devious mind,” he said. “That’s what you like about me.” As the moment came quickly rushing back into Angel’s mind, his hot seed came jetting out and landed on the white tiles. “Ugh,” he moaned. ~*~*~*~*~* Buffy was lying on her bed dressed in a white tank top and white panties with her cotton bed sheets at her waist. Buffy just couldn’t sleep because all her thoughts were consumed by the dark haired, brown eyed man that she stare at for hours. Well the thoughts of Angel made her start touching her body. She began touching the soft cotton material of her tank top and slid her fingers feeling the smooth skin of her stomach moving her fingers inch by inch which caused her to shiver. Her fingers kept trailing upwards until she found her breasts and cupped them gently massaging them. As her fingers kept on massaging her breasts the nipples became harder. Buffy then moved one hand towards the waistband of her panties, and then moved them around her inner thigh. She was caressing her inner thigh feeling how smooth her skin was then gliding her fingers towards the crotch of her panties feeling the wetness seeping through. Her hand went inside her panties feeling the smooth skin of her shaved mound caressing it gently causing her to sigh. Her fingers went and parted her legs wide open delving through her slick channel feeling the wetness of her arousal against her fingertips. The more she thought about Angel doing unconscious able things to her, the more her arousal increased. “Oh, Angel,” she moaned and continued on touching her clit slowly beginning to pinch it to elicit another moan. Buffy was envisioning in her mind of Angel enjoying kissing and going down on her. She knew for a fact that he had a way with his tongue when it came to kissing. His kisses were nice and wet, addictive and could make any woman’s body get all hot bothered. Then as the moaning continued on Buffy moved her middle finger into her opening that only Angel has satisfied her fully and completely. “Ooh,” she moaned and jerked her hips forward so her ass was sticking up in the air. As she proceeded on letting her finger enter in and out of her all she wanted was Angel to give her oral pleasure. His mouth, his tongue and his teeth doing the most spectacular things to her clit just brought her over to the edge. “Angel,” she sighed. Her hips went back down, her breathing went back to normal and her heartbeat just beat rapidly. The shivers from her intense orgasm gave her a soothing affect. She pulled her sheets over her body and slept peacefully dreaming of Angel. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 19 Today was May 17th just an ordinary day in Los Angeles, California. It was sunny, hot and humid all rolled into one. Though the fact of the matter isn’t to state the weather, but to mention that it’s Angel’s 31st birthday. As he turns thirty-one in a loveless marriage that he can’t wait to get a divorce; though the only bright side for Angel was that Buffy was in it. ‘Hmm, if I could only see her for my birthday it would be one wish that I wouldn’t regret.’ Angel just sat in his black leather chair and kicked his feet up on his wooden desk with his arms crossed behind his head. He closed his brown eyes, his face relaxed with no wrinkle appearing upon his forehead with the cutest smile on his face. Karin, his secretary walked in and brought him his coffee and had to smile at the sight of her boss. ‘He looks so gorgeous. It’s too bad that Buffy Summers took his heart. It’s so obvious that he’s in love with her and not his wife.’ “Mr. McKeon, I brought your coffee. Would you like anything else sir?” “Actually no. Thank you for the coffee. Did you know that today is my birthday?” Angel asked smiling. “Actually I did. Happy Birthday,” she said and kissed him on the cheek. She then quickly went out and went to her desk drawer and pulled out a bag. Karin went back and handed him the bag. Angel looked at her a bit confused. “You didn’t have to you know,” he said smiling. “You know that I always do. Come on. Open it,” she said excitedly. He laughed. He went to the card and read the inscription and then went straight to the gift. He took all he white tissue paper and found a picture frame with a picture of him and Buffy dancing on the Christmas party. He was surprised that someone was taking pictures and let alone them. “I hope you like it. I’m the one that took the photo. I figured that you’d want a memory of that night.” “Yeah, it’ll be a memory that I won’t forget,” he said with a wicked smile. Oh, the fun that he had that night. “Thank you, Karin,” he said and then kissed her on the cheek. She blushed and couldn’t stop smiling. ~*~*~*~*~* Darla knew that it was Angel’s birthday and she could care less. She knew that Angel could care about her presence. Besides she had plans with Lindsay. Lindsay’s the one she wants to spend her life with. He made things easier in every way. She drove up to his building and walked right in and took the elevator to his apartment. She knocked on the door and Lindsay opened up. “Hello beautiful,” he said and pulled her right in kissing her fully on the lips. “Lindsay, I’ve missed you,” she said with her lips all pouty and red. “I’ve missed you too. I think we have a lot of catching up to do,” he said and kissed her once more. ~*~*~*~*~* Angel drove home feeling happy, but yet he was a bit sad. You could see the sadness upon his face, but there was nothing could do about it. Buffy was at home in Sunnydale and he was alone in Los Angeles with his dog. He opened the door and noticed a trail of clothes that were leading upstairs. “Oh, great! Darla thinks I’m in the mood to have sec with her. This is the wrong time.” Angel started picking up the articles of clothing. First his hands found a black mini skirt, then a matching blouse. Afterwards while he reached the stairs he found a pair of black nylon stockings, red panties and a matching bra. Finally he found her shoes and walked right inside the bedroom. “Darla, I’m in no mood for this,” he said then looked at the woman lying in is bed. “I’m not Darla the last time I checked,” she said smiling wickedly. She was lying down in green silk sheets that matched the color of her eyes. “Buffy,” he said and then dropped all her clothes on the carpeted floor. “That’s me. The one and only.” “You’re here in…in my bedroom naked. How did you get in here?” The idea that he knew she was naked underneath those sheets were already causing a pain in a certain part of his pants. The silky material had a nice fit around her body. Her blonde hair was draped on her shoulders and her arms were bare and visible. “I had a key made. Surprise. Happy Birthday, Angel.” “Yeah, I’m surprised.” Shocked was more what Angel felt like. He couldn’t believe that his wish came true. ‘Thank you God.’ “Well what are you waiting for? Come on over and unwrap your gift,” she said pointing towards him. Angel started taking off his jacket, tie, his shoes and socks and finally his pants. He was about to unbutton his shirt when Buffy stopped him. “Angel, no! Come over here. I need talk to you. I have to tell you something,” she said softly. Angel walked over and sat right next to her. “What is it Buffy? Tell me sweetie,” he said concerned. His hand caressed her face and kissed the palm. “We’ve been together for quite a while now and were getting closer. I feel that I love you,” she said looking into those brown eyes that stole her heart. “I think I have been since the first day, but I think it clicked that weekend we spent together. You were the perfect gentleman and that was so sweet of you,” she said smiling. “Well apparently you helped me out afterwards in the car,” he said smiling back. Buffy laughed. “Though now that you mentioned it, I love you too,” he said with a smirk. She hit him on the chest. “Hey mister, I pour my heart and you just say that to me like that,” she said pouting. “Sweetie, my Buffy I do love you. You’ve made me happy. You make me love being around you all the time. I love you, Buffy Anne Summers.” “Thank you. I know that today’s your birthday and all, but I was wondering if you could do me a favor.” “What is it?” “I want you to make love to me. I don’t want us just to have sex,” she said and hen bent her head down in embarrassment. “Of course I would. It would be the first time we wouldn’t be tearing each other’s clothes off. It will be memorable,” he said raising his eyebrows. “So let’s start this memorable moment,” she said and leaned into kiss him. The green silk sheets slid off her body and her bare breasts were pressed up against his white cotton dress shirt. His hands went to her shoulders, and then making it’s way to cupping her face and finally threading his fingers through her blonde silky hair. Buffy’s fingers started unbuttoning his shirt and released the kiss and slowly placed wet kisses across his chest journeying her way down his lean sculpted abs. Her hands went through his shirt as it fell off his broad shoulders as her manicured nails lightly scratched his back causing him to moan. She lifted her head back up and gazed into those brown eyes that she truly loved and kissed him deeply once more. “Make love to me Angel,” she said breathlessly. Her hands went straight for hid boxers opening the snap, began sliding it off his waist giving his ass a nice gentle squeeze and finished off sliding it off with her feet. “With pleasure,” Angel said smirking. His hands were at her calves moving his way up to her thighs feeling the smooth, soft silkiness of her skin. He then removed the sheet exposing Buffy totally in the nude. He pulled her lithe body up against his hard body holding her securely. As the kisses intensified the heat became apparent for these lovers. Angel released the kiss causing Buffy to moan. He quickly kicked off his boxers tossing them aside. Buffy laid her head down on the pillows and looked into Angel’s eyes with the need of love for her man. Angel slowly made his way and placed his arms at the side of her shoulders. He then leaned down for a kiss, then moved onto her neck and started kissing her shoulders and captured one nipple into his mouth. “Oh!” she moaned in pleasure. Her fingers threaded into his brown hair massaging his scalp to encourage him on. His tongue continued licking her nipple and then he moved onto the next one. As the other one was left unattended his hands came over and cupped the soft flesh massaging and pinched the wet nipple. His hands moved further down slowly removing the sheet letting it fall to the floor. His fingers caressed her thighs feeling the soft, smooth delicate skin. He then slowly parted her legs open apparently noticing how wet her arousal had became. He let his fingers touched her shaven mound and slowly toying with her clit. “Oh,” she moaned. His fingers were hot like fire and he hadn’t even begun his exploration of this beautiful woman before him. Angel placed two of his fingers at her clit slightly pinching it and then slowly inserting a finger into her hot wet channel. Buffy’s automatic response was to squeeze her inner muscles and clamp down onto his finger. So Angel went in and out of her intervals. Finally after a while Angel released his fingers and replaced it with his tongue. His tongue slowly but surely licked her clit causing her to shiver and stir up her arousal even more. “Hmm,” she moaned and her hips jerked up a bit. Angel placed his hands on her hips bringing them back down. He continued on with his task of devouring his beauty’s sexual arousal making her moan even more. “Angel!” she exclaimed after what may seem hours was just minutes for orgasm to be reached. Angel quickly shed off his boxers and knew that Buffy was still yearning for some more. Her breathing went down and the shivers from her orgasm subsided and now she was ready for him. He gradually slid inside teasing her with the tip of his penis. “Please honey I need you,” she begged. Angel looked down at her. “You sure about that?” he asked with a smirk. He just couldn’t help looked at her glistening body with her breasts heaving. “Yes, my love.” Angel slid all the way starting off nice and slowly to build up an intense orgasm for the both of them. The faster he went the more he could feel his arousal stirring up. “Oh,” they both exclaimed as they came and Angel laid right next to her pulling her body into his embrace and kissed her forehead. “I love you, Buffy.” “I love you, too Angel.” Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 20 Buffy was in Angel’s bed with her leg over his hip and under the covers. ‘How did we cover up? The last I remembered the sheets were on the floor.’ Her head was on his bare chest, while his arm held her waist securely. His grip on the petite blonde was as if he wouldn’t let go of her go for one second. She caressed his chest softly letting her nails scratch him. “Hey,” he said opening his eyes and smiling. “Hey. You slept well?” she asked smiling back. She then crawled on his chest. “Of course I did. You made me feel so wonderful. Thanks for my birthday gift,” he said wiggling his eyebrows. She swatted his chest. “I have a gift for you. Hold on.” She kissed him then slid off the bed. Buffy walked around in her nude body and got a box. She then made her way back to him and handed him the box. Angel took the small black box and opened revealing gold cufflinks with his initials on it. Angel couldn’t believe eyes that Buffy bought him such an expensive gift. “Buffy, it’s so beautiful. Thank you,” he said smiling. “Your welcome birthday boy,” she said and then captured his lips into a deep searing kiss. She parted his lips open and placed her tongue inside swirling it around with his. In the meantime Angel’s hands gripped onto Buffy, pulling her closer to his body. Both her full breasts were crushed up against his broad chest while the kissing between both lovers intensified. “Hmm,” Buffy moaned as the kissing went on. His hands wandered all over her smooth bare back. He made little circles going the way down to her behind. His hands squeezed her firm posterior causing her to wiggle her body against his. “No fair Buffy,” he said smiling. He then rolled them over so that she lay beneath him. “Angel. I wanna be on top,” she whined. “Nuh uh. It’s my birthday. What I say goes,” he said with a smirk and captured one nipple into his mouth. He let tongue tease the nipple and then plucked it out and went to the next. “Oh, Angel!” His ministrations towards her always drove her insane. “So no more talking,” Angel said and made his way down kissing her body. “Uh huh,” was all she said. ~*~*~*~*~* After the second round Buffy decided to slowly get out of bed and get dressed. She looked at the clock by the bed and noticed it said five o’clock. ‘Oh, shit! His wife is going to be home soon. I better get dressed.’ As Buffy put on the last finishing touches of her outfit Angel woke up. “Buffy, where you going?” “I’m going home. I’m leaving before wifey comes back,” she said smiling. Angel stepped out of bed walking towards her with nothing but his glorious naked body. “Don’t go. Stay. I’ll make it worth your while again,” he said and kissed her. “Hmm tempting. Though as long as you’re married, I can’t stay overnight.” They both made it downstairs and to the door. “I’ll see you soon,” she said kissing him. “You can count on it,” he said against her lips. Buffy stepped out the door and towards her car and drove off. Darla had just arrived and noticed the blonde leaving her house. ‘I knew it! Angel was fucking that blonde chick! Oh, he’s gonna get it from me.’ ~*~*~*~*~* Faith had Spike over her place from the night before. The chemistry between these two was magnetic. They couldn’t let go of one another. The both of them were in bed sprawled out, sheets rumpled with a calm serene look of an afterglow of having sex all night. “So Spike what do you wanna do this morning?” she asked wandering her body down lower and lower. “Um. I can tell what you want to do,” he said smiling slyly. “Oh, come one Spike. It isn’t like you’re tired or anything. Besides Buffy and Angel do it all the time,” she said smiling back. “True. Though one of these says Darla will find out. Oh, when she does she’ll sink her claws into Angel’s money.” “Well I doubt he’ll let her do that. He doesn’t seem like the type to let her do that to him.” “Well only time will tell. Why don’t we have our own kind of fun?” Spike pulled Faith closer and kissed her fiercely. ~*~*~*~*~* Buffy had the feeling that all her moments of passion with Angel could one day lead the to inevitable. She was in her bathroom with pregnancy kit and just took the test. She was waiting for those minutes to tick, which seemed like forever. A part of Buffy wished that Angel were there to share this moment. Buffy looked at the strip and it was a plus. She was pregnant with Angel’s child. “What am I going to do? I can’t tell him. He won’t leave his wife because all of the sudden I’m pregnant.” ‘Decisions, decisions. To many to make. I know what to do.’ ~*~*~*~*~* Joyce Summers had decided to see Buffy and see if they could work things out. She wanted to make things right so she headed on over and made her way to the steps of Buffy’s house. Buffy heard the doorbell and opened it up and spotted her mother in the other side. “Hello mother. It’s good to see you. Would you like to come in?” she asked her mother. “Sure.” Joyce stepped inside and sat on the sofa in the living room. Buffy followed her mother and wondered whether or not she should tell her mother that she’s pregnant. ‘I already know what she’s going to say. So I might as well tell her.’ ‘What is she thinking about? I just know that she’s got something that’s going to disappoint me.’ “Mom, I’m pregnant.” ‘There I said it.’ “You’re pregnant for that mystery guy that you wouldn’t give me his name,” Joyce said seriously. “Yes. His name is Angel.” “So does he know about you being pregnant?” “No, doesn’t. He never will.” “Why is that?” “Because he’s married.” “Oh, Buffy! I’m so disappointed in you.” “I’m not surprised that you said that mother,” she said glaring at her. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 21 A part of Buffy did feel disappointed because she knew that she couldn’t tell Angel about her pregnancy. She knew that he wouldn’t leave his wife for her. Though she knew that he loved her, but she couldn’t picture him leaving Darla. So Buffy decided to see him at his job and end things with him. ‘It’s the only way I can do this. If I don’t things will get worse.’ Buffy made it over to Angel’s office and Karin let her in. She made her way inside his office. His chair was turned facing his widow, so he couldn’t see the ad expression on her face. “Buffy, what a surprise,” she said swiveling his chair around. He got off his chair and walked towards her and kissed her. She responded back by placing her fingers through his hair and pulling him closer to her petite body. ‘I have to tell him before I forget. I’ve got to stop kissing him.’ “Angel, we need to stop,” she said breathlessly. “You sure about that?” Angel said smiling. His index finger traced the outline of her lips feeling how soft and delicate they are. His brown eyes just intently fixated on her lips. “Yes,” she said quietly. She had to think rationally before she let her emotions take over her. “We need to sit down. I have to say something.” They both walked over his sofa and sat down. “Okay. I’m all ears. Spill.” “There’s no easy way to say this. I have to break this off. You and I just can’t continue this. It’s over Angel.” “What?!” He couldn’t believe what she was saying. She wanted to break things off. ‘Why? What caused her to think this way? I need to know.’ “Why Buffy? What changed?” “I just can’t be the other woman in your life. I want to be the only woman in your life.” “But you are. You know that Buffy. I love you.” “I know, but as long as you’re married to Darla, I can’t believe you. The only way I’ll believe you is when I see the divorce papers in your hands,” she said seriously. “You know it’s complicated for me. It’s not that easy Buffy.” Yes, it is. You can file for a divorce and we’ll be together,” she said with tears forming in her eyes. “I can’t.” “Well I got my answer. Goodbye Angel,” she said kissing him once more and then walked out the door. He just sat there and stared at his door and couldn’t believe that he was paralyzed and didn’t move at all. ‘What the hell have I done? I just let the woman that I love walk out the door. I mist be insane.’ ~*~*~*~*~* Since that moment that Angel and Buffy had in his office they both never spoke to each other. Well actually it was more along the lines of Angel calling Buffy and her avoiding his voice saying that he missed her or loved her. It was just unbearable. ~*~*~*~*~* Angel had been frustrated with work and couldn’t stand his wife. ‘Oh, please god let me through this. I can’t be with this woman any longer. I need a way out.’ He had found a way to obtain the family lawyer. He explained the situation to his lawyer and they both came to an agreement. Angel was on his home got the divorced papers in his hands. He was going to finally get rid of the blonde bitch. ‘Bye, bye Darla. Hello Buffy.’ Angel quickly went through the door and headed up the stairs to his bedroom. “Darla, we need to talk?” “What about Angel?” ‘I swear if he’s leaving me for that Buffy Summers, he’s got another thing coming.’ “I want a divorce from you. I’ve got the papers all ready. The only thing we have to do is sign and it’s official. We’ll be divorced.” “You’re doing this for that Buffy chick you’ve been fucking,” she said yelling out loud. “Yeah, I’m doing it this for Buffy. Though don’t you want to get rid of me so you can fuck Lindsay senseless as well? If I recall pretty well, he’s been in between your legs for quite some time,” he said smirking. “Ugh. You’re pissing the shit out of me Angel,” she said furiously. “I’m glad that I’m pissing the shit out of you. It makes me so happy that I can touch you right here on the inside,” Angel said tapping his heart. “You’re so full of yourself.” “Of course I am darling,” he said sarcastically. ~*~*~*~*~* The divorce between Darla and Angel was finalized. She was awarded nicely and wasn’t allowed to keep her shares at McKeon Industries. Darla was now a free woman and was able to be with Lindsay and not keep it secretive. As for Angel he felt a huge weight lifted off his back. He was now going to try one more time and see if he can convince Buffy to see him. ~*~*~*~*~* Buffy was up in her room and placed her Alicia Keys CD in her player and pushed the desired selection. I keep on fallin’ In and out of love With you Sometimes I love ya Sometimes u make me blue Sometimes I feel good At times I feel used Lovin you darlin’ Makes me so confused I keep on Fallin’ In and out of love with you I never loved someone The way that I love you Oh, oh, I never felt this way How do you give me so much pleasure And cause me so much pain Just when I think I’ve taken more than would a fool I start fallin’ back in love with you I keep on Fallin’ In and out of love with you I never loved someone The way that I love you She was listening to the lyrics and all she could think of was Angel. It seemed like the words just fit perfectly with her relationship with Angel. Oh baby I, I, I, I’m fallin’ I, I, I, I’m fallin’ Fall I keep on Fallin’ In and out of love with you I never loved someone The way that I love you I’m fallin’ In and out of love with you I never loved someone The way that I love you I’m fallin’ In and out of love with you I never loved someone The way that I love you Then all of a sudden her phone started ringing. She looked over and noticed that it was Angel. ‘What is it that he’s going to tell me now? It’s not as if anything’s changed.’ “It’s Buffy. Leave a message after the beep. I’ll get back to you soon. Bye.” “Buffy, baby please pick up the phone. I know you’re there. I miss hearing your voice. Well I’ve got some great news. Darla and I are divorced. I hope you’re happy Buffy. I love you, baby. I hope to hear from you soon.” As soon as Buffy heard his voice on the answering machine the tears in her eyes came streaming down on her face. She just laid there in her bed shocked at what she had just heard. Angel was divorced. He was free now. ‘I’m happy for him. I really am, but I don’t know what to do. Sure you do. You’re going after your man.’ Faith lightly knocked on Buffy’s door and stepped right in. She saw the petite blonde lying in her bed with a sad look on her face. A face that meant one thing. Angel. Faith had overheard the message that Angel left. She was thrilled that Angel divorced his wife. It seemed that no matter what went on between Angel and Buffy, Buffy just wanted more. “Hey there. So that was tall, dark and handsome that just called you?” “Yeah, it was Angel.” “So what are you gonna do?” Buffy looked Faith right in the eye. “I’m pregnant.” “You’re kidding right?!” “No. I’m pregnant with Angel’s child and he doesn’t know.” “Come on Buff. You gotta tell him. You love him, don’t you?” “I do. Though I just can’t right now.” Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 22 Spike hadn’t heard from Angel in quite some time. He had heard about the news of the divorce. He could tell by the sound of his friend’s voice that something was making him sad. So he decided to call Angel and they were gonna meet up at a bar. “So you and Darla are over?” “Yes, for the fifth time that you’ve asked me that. We are over.” “Though I don’t see you jumping up and down with excitement. It all has to do with a little blonde named Buffy.” “Yes, and you know that,” Angel said looking at him. He didn’t need Spike to remind him why he was depressed, sad and tired, “So go after her then.” “I’ve called her a ton of times. She’s never responded back to any of my calls.” “Well maybe lightening will strike and Buffy will be right before your eyes.” “I hope so.” ~*~*~*~*~* Darla was driving on the highway just listening to a tune on the radio. She was just content because her life was just about to begin with Lindsay. Even though things with her and Angel didn’t workout things worked out for the best. “Nothing bad can happen to me now. I’ve got Lindsay by my side and nothing else matters,” she said smiling. Though out of nowhere a car came at eighty miles an hour and just rammed right into her. In return caused Darla to have a head on collision. Her head hit the steering wheel, which caused her to have a concussion. Cars passed by and ignored the smashed up car. Though finally a car stopped and dialed 911. Darla arrived at the hospital as a dead on arrival. No matter what the paramedics have done to resuscitate her heart, it just didn’t want to beat at all. So as soon as the doctors knew who she was they contacted her ex-husband Angel McKeon. Angel got the all and was surprised at the news. He quickly called her parents and headed over to the hospital to take care of matters. When everyone arrived they were shocked at the sight of Darla’s appearance. “Oh, my God!” Darla’s mother exclaimed. She went into the arms of her husband and started crying. Angel was just shocked at the bruises that were all over Darla’s face. All the blood ruined her beautiful face. Darla’s blonde hair was caked in blood, which looked like crimson. “If the both of you would want I can take care of the funeral arrangements. I could have the reception at the house afterwards if you’d like?” “Oh, that would be wonderful Angel. Even though Darla and you have parted ways, I know she’d really appreciate it,” Mr. Morgan said. “Of course. I don’t mind at all,” Angel said with a sad smile. ~*~*~*~*~* Meanwhile Buffy was at home dressed up in her blue pajamas with red hearts. Her hair was in a ponytail twist. She just couldn’t stop thinking about Angel in their unborn child. It still amazed her that she was going to be mother. While she sat on her sofa with her legs tucked in the sound of her bell went off. ‘Who could this be? I know it’s not my mother. I wish that it could be Angel. Maybe it’s him.’ Buffy quickly went to the door, opened it and her smile faded away. “What do you want? Are you here to insult me even more?” “No, I’m not Buffy. I just would like to talk to my friend.” “Friend?! I’m a friend to you, Willow. Since when?” “Please Buffy, can I come in?” “Why not.” Willow stepped inside the house and sat on the sofa. “So what gives Willow? Are you here to give me some inspirational words of wisdom?” “No. I wanted to sat that I’m sorry.” “Sorry, for what? Me being a slut? Or me prostituting myself? Or how about the best one ever me sleeping with Angel for my selfish reasons?” Buffy said angrily. “I know. I feel horrible about all those tings that I said to you. Angel even scolded me and to mine my own business,” Willow said sadly. “That’s right. It isn’t your business. It’s between him and me. We both knew what w were getting ourselves into.” “Buffy, I’m truly sorry, I don’t know what else to say.” “I don’t know either Willow. Things have changed between us. I still need time to rethink my friendship with you,” Buffy said seriously. “Okay. It’s your decision.” “Yes. I think you should leave now. It was nice seeing you Willow.” “You too Buffy.” ~*~*~*~*~* Later on that evening Buffy was sitting curled up on her sofa watching television. Her show CSI has just finished on CBS and was now time for the eleven o’clock news. As she was listening to the news and was about to shut it off, she head the announcer mention Darla Morgan. ‘Isn’t that Angel’s ex-wife? Yeah, that’s her.’ She kept listening and heard that she died in a car crash. “Oh, my God! That’s horrible. I know that she was a bitch to Angel, but her life ending this way is awful. Angel must be taking this heard.” ‘Oh, Angel I miss you so much.’ Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 23 All things had been arranged for Darla’s funeral. Angel made sure that everything was set to the way he knew Darla would have wanted it. She was a perfectionist in her own way. So Angel had her favorite flowers, which were lilies throughout the funeral home. At the first row were her parents, other family members, friends and Angel. Everyone was dressed in black with a somber look of sadness across their faces. You could see the pain and grief for the loss of Darla. Lindsay was there as well with tears forming in his eyes. He was so much in love with Darla that the two were planning on marrying in the next two weeks. So after when everyone had arrived for the wake it was time for Darla’s father, Michael Morgan to say a few words for his daughter. “Good Afternoon. As you know losing a child is very heartbreaking for any parent to go through. Darla was my girl, my little angle. I know for sure that everyone will miss her dearly,” he said with tears in his eyes. “So after when everyone has pain their respects, we’ll have a gathering at the house. Then tomorrow after the funeral we’ll have one as well.” ~*~*~*~*~* All family and friends were gathered in the cemetery standing over Darla’s pale casket. The weather was sunny, but hints of cloudiness that made you wonder if rain was about to occur at any moment. The priest started his words, which made a lasting impact on everyone. “Darla was brought to this earth and has spread her love to everyone around her. Though she was taken away from her life too early by the unexpected tragedy, she’s in God’s hands. God has taken her and she will live on amongst everyone’s memories.” So after the father’s last words of ashes to ashes and dust-to-dust, everyone threw their roses at the casket. As roses were thrown tears were streaming down everyone’s faces. A part of Angel wished he had someone here to lean on. He knew that thinking about Buffy over his ex-wife’s grave felt a bit weird, but he wanted her here. ~*~*~*~*~* Everyone was at the McKeon residence paying their respects to the Morgan family. Each person told both parents how much they loved Darla and giving their condolences. Though not too many of them went towards Angel. Darla apparently made comments about Angel, which caused tension. “Can you believe him? He actually had some nerve attending the funeral,” said the blonde lady. “I know. Though do you actually believe those tears? He was glad that she’s dead,” said the brunette lady. Angel had overheard both of the women and turned his head to look at them. His brown eyes became even darker and glared at the two women that said don’t fuck with me. He may have his problems, but he never expected her to die. “You have something to say to me? “ Angel looked at both women and waited for a response. Both of the women didn’t say anything at all. “I thought so. It’s none of your business about my relationship with Darla. You’re here to pay your respects and remember all the good memories you with her.” He then got up and left. ~*~*~*~*~* The crowd of people at eh house began to diminish and Angel was left all alone with his dog Bertha Blue. He had his legs kicked up on the table, with his black tie loosened and Bertha Blue’s head on his lap. His hand patted his dog’s head just relaxing and was glad that he was alone. Then as he sat on his sofa being all relaxed the bell rang. ‘Who else could it be? Everyone already came. I so don’t need any company.’ As he opened the door the last person that he expected was his blonde beauty Buffy. “Buffy,” he said with a small on his face. “That would be me,” she said smiling back. Bertha decided to stop the intimate moment between the two and started barking. “Hey there girl. How are you?” Buffy said kneeling down petting Angel’s dog. “Come on in Buffy. I was just about to head upstairs and take a nap. Would you care to join me?” he said holding out his hand, She placed her hands in his and headed upstairs. ~*~*~*~*~* They made it inside his bedroom and Buffy sat down on the bed. Angel took of his jacket and placed it behind the chair. He then took off his tie and unbuttons the top button and then sat right next to Buffy. Angel placed hi hand on her knee lightly letting his thumb graze over her skin. “I missed you Buffy,” he said looking into those green eyes that he loved so much. “I missed you too,” she said and placed her hand on the top of his. “I’ve called to tell you that…” “I know. I know everything. I heard about your divorce and then later Darla’s death.” “Yeah.” He removed his hand from her knee and went to touch her stomach. As his hand caressed her stomach he felt a slight bulge and was surprised. “You’re pregnant?” ‘So she’s moved on without me. I guess I’m really late to take her back.’ “Yes,” she said softly. “So…so who’s the father?” He had to know who the lucky guy was. “It’s you. Who else would it be?” “Wow. I’m a dad,” he said smiling. It’s been the first smile that he has had for a long time. He placed his hand by her face cupping it and placed a kiss on her lips. She responded by placing her body closer to his. His lips left hers and slowly made it’s way on the column of her neck. As his tongue was licking her smooth skin, Buffy couldn’t help but moan at he loss of Angel’s touch. “Angel. Angel, we need to stop,” she said softly. “No,” he mumbled against her neck. “Yes,” she said and pulled him away from her neck. “Why?” he asked with his brown eyes that always melted her heart. “Because now isn’t the right time for this. It’s just weird.” “Okay. But you’ll sleep with me?” “Sure.” ~*~*~*~*~* Angel’s parents decided to go see him and wanted to see how he was doing. They had a key to the place. “Angel, are you here?” called out his father. “Maybe he’s sleeping Patrick. Why don’t we leave and come back tomorrow?” “No. We’re heading upstairs.” So they made it to the top step and slowly opened Angel’s bedroom door. His parents weren’t expecting to see a woman in his bed. Angel was in bed with his arm around Buffy’s body. Her head’s on his chest and her hand placed on his chest. They both had serene look on their faces. “Patrick, we should leave. Let’s not disturb him now.” “No. Angel, what is the meaning of this?” “Dad! Mom! What are you two doing here?” “We came to see you honey.” Angel smiled at his mother. “Well it’s a good thing that we did. You and your lady friend or whatever she is for you, caused your divorce to Darla.” “Her name is Buffy. She’s my lover. She’s the woman that I love. Oh, and she isn’t the reason why I divorced Darla.” “Oh, come one Angel! She is so the reason why you’re not with Darla.” “No.” “Well you’re not getting married to her.” “Yes, I am. She’s the mother of my child. I plan to spend the rest of my life with her,” Angel said seriously. He decided that it was time to stand up to his father. “I’m going to be a grandmother!” Both men looked at her. “What?! I’m happy for my Angel,” she said smiling and then looking at Buffy. “Thanks Mom,” Angel said kissing his mother’s cheek. “This isn’t over Angel,” Patrick McKeon said seriously. “Yes, it is Dad. I’m planning to marry and spend the rest of my life with her until I die. So if you don’t want to attend my wedding then it’s fine by me,” Angel said looking at his father straight in the eye. “Patrick, let’s leave. Angel we’ll se you later.” Angel’s mother escorted her husband out. Angel turned around and sat next to Buffy. Buffy was in a state of shock at the harsh words that were said between father and son. ‘Did he say marriage? I didn’t remember a proposal.’ “Buffy, you alright?” “Yeah.” ‘Marriage? Angel wants to marry me!’ Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 24 Things between the two lovers slowly progressed and Angel had made a huge decision in his life. He decided to reside in Sunnydale. He didn’t want Buffy to move to Los Angeles. It wasn’t a decision that his father didn’t take it lightly, but Angel didn’t give a shit. Buffy was his future and his everything. As he finished packed up the remaining things into his black Jeep Cherokee he was ready to start his new life. He had popped in his Dave Matthews CD and played his favorite song. As he heard the lyrics he knew for sure that where Buffy was is where he wanted to be. Where are you going, with your long face pulling down? Don’t hide away, like an ocean But you can’t see, but you can smell And the sound waves crash down I am no superman I have no answers for you I am no hero, oh that’s for sure But I do know one thing for sure Is where you are, is where I belong I do know, where you go, is where I want to be Where are you going, where do you go? Are you looking for answers, to questions under the stars? If along the way you are growing weary, you can rest with me until a brighter day It’s okay, where are you going, where do you go? I am no superman I have no answers for you I am no hero, oh that’s for sure But I do know one thing for sure Is where you are, is where I belong I do know, where you go, is where I want to be Where are you going, where do you go? Are you looking for answers, where do you go? Where are you going? Where do you go? Let’s go. ~*~*~*~*~* Angel had everything planned and knew for sure that Buffy would be surprised and never forget this moment for years to come. Buffy is and always be his love. Angel made it to the door of her hours opened the door and stepped inside. “Hey Angel. Have fun,” Faith said smiling. “Thanks. I know I will,” he said with a smirk. “Oh, and Faith?” “Yes?” “Don’t hurt Spike too much.” “I’ll try not to,” she said with a smile and then left. ~*~*~*~*~* Buffy was waiting eagerly for Angel’s presence. It had been quite a while since the two had been together in any way. She couldn’t help but smile and then the knob on the door opened. “Hey baby,” he said smiling. “Angel. I missed you,” she said smiling back. Buffy was sitting on her bed. She had a red nightie with straps that reached her mid-thigh. Her legs were crossed and her nightie slid down exposing her smooth legs. Angel just swallowed the lump in her throat. “You look incredible.” “You say that now wait until later and tell what you think,” she said huskily. Angel laughed at her response and started taking off his clothes. He made sure that everything was off except for his boxers. Angel made his way towards the bed and lay next to his blonde beauty. “I missed you,” he said kissing her neck. “Hmm. Me too. So how are your parents?” “They’re fine.” He kept on licking, sucking and moving his mouth towards hers. “And your brothers and sisters?” “Buffy.” “Hmm?” “I don’t want to talk about them. I’m here with the woman that I love and I want to with her.” Buffy smiled at his words. He leaned in, captured her lips and started kissing her. His hands started having a mind of their own and reached her soft shoulders. As he slipped his fingers through the straps of her nightie, her breasts were fully exposed to him. He then let his hand cup on of her breasts squeezing it tenderly. “Hmm,” Buffy moaned against his lips. She pushed her body forward urging him on. Angel understanding his lover’s action and continued on by moving his lips over to neck, sticking out his tongue and stared licking nibbling her skin. Her fingers went straight to his hair massaging his scalp. He looked into her eyes once more and gave her his trademark half smile. He laid her down, then placed himself and straddled her hips. His next move was to capture her nipple in her mouth. His tongue flicked and teased her nipple and sucked right into his mouth. “Oh,” she moaned. When he was done with the breast before, he went on to the neglected one. His hands caressed her stomach with her protruding belly due to their child. He quickly placed a kiss on it. Angel proceeded on and kissed her hips, then her shaved mound and kissed either side of her inner thigh. “Tease,” she whined. “Oh, you know that you like it. Besides I have a bit of a surprise afterwards,” he said smiling wickedly. “Ooh.” His tongue found her clit and started licking her while her moans had just started. He kept going on while his hands found her breasts again. She leaned forward and slightly pushed his head forward urging him to do more. Angel lifted his head from its spot giving Buffy her orgasm; he was ready to have more fun. He set himself and slid right inside her and started moving in and out of her. As he quicken, Buffy wanted him to go deeper inside her. “More Angel!” she exclaimed. She then crossed her legs and locked Angel in place. His thrusts inside her kept going faster and faster until he yelled out her name. “Buffy!” He then lay right next to her and pulled her sweaty body right next to his. ~*~*~*~*~* Both lovers were peacefully sleeping in each other’s arms. Their legs were entwined, arms holding one another and the serene look of two lovers that are truly in love. Angel slowly and carefully disentangled himself from Buffy without waking her. She felt him move and held onto him strongly. “Buffy, sweetie I need to get up,” he whispered in her ear. “No. You’re staying here with me,” she said mumbling against his chest. “I’ll be right back. I promise.” Angel then slowly removed Buffy off his body. He stepped out of bed as Buffy looked at his retreating nude form. She had to smile. Angel found what he was looking for and then kneeled before Buffy. “I love you, Buffy.” “I love you, too.” “I want you to know that when I told my father that I plan to spend the rest of my life with you I meant it. You’ve made me feel love. You’ve made me become more spontaneous with all the various places we had sex.” “Though nothing makes me feel closer to you than when you’re in my arms. I need you Buffy Summers. You complete me. I’d love you to be my wife and spend the rest of your life with me,” he said and opened the little black velvet box. “Oh!” Buffy exclaimed. She had tears running down her eyes. “Yes! I’ll marry you Angel.” He placed the diamond ring on her finger and kissed her. “I guess I should repay you mister,” she smiled wickedly. “Mister? So what do you have in mind?” He asked raising his eyebrows. “I have a couple of ideas. Why don’t you return to bed and I’ll show you all the ways, okay?” “You’re the boss.” He quickly made his way back to the bed. Things Happen For A Reason Ch. 25 25 *Epilogue: 1 year later* Buffy was getting ready to walk down the isle and marry Angel. She knew that after all the things that she went through with Angel they were finally going to be together forever. Each of them filled a void in the other's heart. Now that their daughter Tracey McKeon was born they would have a proper honeymoon. She was the cutest little girl with her mother's blonde hair and her father's brown eyes. Tracey was dressed in a white dress and matching shoes. Angel's mother in the church was holding her. The organ of the church music was being played and Buffy was walking down the isle with her father right next to her. Buffy was all smiles, as she looked left and right at all the familiar faces that she knew. Though the one face that she wanted to see was her Angel. That name would always make her smile even bigger. Her father kissed her on the cheek and handed her over to Angel. ~*~*~*~*~* The exchanges of vows were made and now Buffy and Angel were officially husband and wife. They made it outside and all their friends were throwing rice at them. Every family member took the opportunity to give hugs and kisses to the newly married couple. They stood for a while to take photos. "Kiss!" everyone exclaimed. Angel pulled Buffy into his arms and kissed her. They quickly told everyone that they'd see them later and headed towards the limousine. They both sat down in the black leather interior and just laughed. "I can't believe we're married!" Buffy exclaimed. "I can't believe that we're in a limo again. You remember the last time we were in one?" "Yeah. But this time around I don't have to worry about sneaking around," Buffy said smiling. "You think Faith told Spike the news yet?" "I have no idea Angel." ~*~*~*~*~* Faith was happy, but she had a surprise for Spike. "Spike, I've got something to tell you." "What is it love?" "I'm pregnant." "You're what?!" He couldn't believe the words that came out of her mouth. "You asshole you heard me. I'm pregnant." Faith then smacked him on the face. "No, I'm happy for you. I'm happy for us," Spike said and then kissed her. ~*~*~*~*~* *Epilogue: 10 years later * Buffy and Angel have enjoyed their wedded bliss for so long. It was like yesterday for these two. Buffy and Angel are still madly in love with 3 children of their own. Their eldest daughter Tracey was heading out with her best friend Christine. Christine is Faith and Spike's daughter. Both Spike and Faith had decided to get married after Christine was born. Spike and faith being the unlikely pair sure made a great daughter. "So Tracey, where are we heading out tonight?" "We're going to the Bronze. Don't you want to see Robert?" "You know I do. You on the other hand want to see Michael?" "Yeah, but don't let my Dad find out." ~*~*~*~*~* Angel and Buffy were in their bedroom and were just done making love. Buffy turned her face and smiled at him. "You still got the stamina of ten years ago." "Of course. You've taught me a few new ticks while we were having sex," he smiled back. "Oh, that is true. Though I haven't had sex in your office, limo, or the men's room for that matter," she said smiling. "You are wicked Mrs. McKeon." "I can't help it. I love the man that I'm with." "Where are the kids?" "Ah…Tracey is going out with Christine and Liam and Susan are watching TV downstairs. Why you ask?" "I'm not surprised about them. So Tracey thinks that I don't know about her crush on Michael." "Angel, you promised me. You won't say a thing to her." "Okay. I promise. Now that we cleared things up, why don't we have some fun?" "What kind of fun do you have in mind?" "I was thinking that maybe you and me can get reacquainted in other ways," he said kissing her neck going down her body. "Angel!" "Yes, my love," he asked with his head raised up. "I love you." "I love you, too." The End