Trust

by Rob Sorenson

Chapter Twenty-eight

************Hyperion Hotel 9:45 PM************

Spike sauntered in, taking a cursory glance to his left and right.

“Anybody here?”

Cordelia poked her head out from Angel’s office. “Just me.”

“Anyone find-”

He stopped, realizing she’d gone back inside before he could finish. Frowning in annoyance, Spike stalked in after her.

“Hey! I was talkin’ to you-“ Cordy held up a forefinger as she sat at the boss’s desk. Spike’s frown remained, but his tone changed to concern.

“What is it? Somethin’ wrong?”

Cordy sighed heavily, making a show of looking at her upraised hand. “I realize you aren’t from this country originally, but would this not be the universal sign for ‘shush’? Hello, trying to concentrate here!”

Spike hesitated a moment, then nodded earnestly. “Right. See, I always hold up these first two here. Gotta learn the lingo.”

She squinted at him briefly before refocusing on the screen. “I’m serious, Spike. This is important stuff…and I know what that two-finger thing means. Watch yourself.”

He moved around the desk. “Having trouble finding a black eight to go on top of the red nine, then? Gets me every time. Try drawing one card at a time instead of every third.”

“That’s not what I’m…just go away, ok? I’m in research mode.”

“More Willow’s department, don’t you think?”

“She’s cleaning up after doing the locator spell for Xand-“ Cordy rolled back in her chair and folded her arms. “-research happens to be my department around here, thank you very much!”

He grinned. “So possessive. Wantin’ the mastery of Google and Yahoo all to yourself.”

Cordy pursed her lips. “Shut up before I Google you.”

Spike’s grin turned sly. “Don’t think we have time for that.”

Cordy smirked, keeping her eyes trained on the screen. “Compared to the length of the performance we all overheard yesterday, we have lots.”

The vampire’s eyes widened. “Hey! Take that back!”

“Can’t do it, Quick Draw.”

“I was under orders to hurry!”

“Uh-huh. Tell you what: I’ll allow you to keep deluding yourself if you please LEAVE!!”

“Fine,” Spike sniffed, “don’t deserve my help anyway.”

“I’ll try to get over the loss.”

He glared over his shoulder as he made his way out. Cordy’s voice echoed through the doorway.

“FYI, drawing one card at a time is cheating.”

“Not if you play Vegas style,” he called back.

“What’s Vegas style?” Willow asked from the stairs.

“Used to be able to play Solitaire for money in Vegas. Pay a dollar for each card in the deck, then take one pass through. After that, you get five bucks for each card that you manage to leave up top. You know, where the aces are?”

Willow nodded. “Sounds like a sucker bet.”

“That it was. Didn’t matter in the end, though. Got our money back from the dealer later.”

“Sucking involved there too, I’d imagine.”

Spike gave a wry grin. “Probably, yeah. Been a while since I was there. Me and Dru…” His smile faded. “Don’t really wanna hear this, do you?”

“Probably not.”

“Tracked down the prodigal carpenter, did you?”

Willow nodded. “Faith should be there by now.”

“Where’d he scurry off to?”

“Some place called Dribbles. It’s a sports bar about five blocks away.”

Spike raised an eyebrow. “You’re joking, right?”

“Nope. He just went out drinking.”

“I meant the name of the place. Sounds like a bloody daycare center.”

Willow sat heavily in an easy chair in the corner of the room, causing Spike to move to her side with concern.

“You all right?”

“Sure. Thanks. Just a little tired. Generally a simple locator spell doesn’t wear me out like this.”

“You eatin’ proper? Maybe a sandwich or something. Might be some ham in the refrigerator-“

“I had a big meal, thanks. Probably more nerves than anything else.”

Spike scoffed. “Nerves? What’s to be nervous about? Just another night of savin’ the soddin’ world. How hard could it be?”

They shared a chuckle. Willow got to her feet and began to pace.

“We just…usually we have some idea what we’re up against. Everything is so…uncertain, you know?”

“Might have some answers soon.”

Willow shook her head. “Yes. I just wish…I hate leaving Dawn alone in this.”

Spike sighed his agreement. “Had no choice, did we?”

“I suppose not.”

“Little Bit’s smart. Both of ‘em are.”

“Yeah. Plus, Riley’s no slouch.”

“If you say so.”

They were silent for a moment. Spike ran a hand over his face.

“If anything happens to her-“

“I’ll unleash Hell on earth.”

The vampire turned to her in surprise, noting the dark tint of the witch’s eyes rather nervously.

“Can’t say I disagree with the plan entirely, but what say we hold back for a bit?”

Willow took a deep breath, then shrugged sheepishly.

“Too far over the top?”

“Not for you.”

Willow looked at her shoes. “Sorry. Rapid mood swings.”

“Right. Remind me not to piss you off for the next several months.” He glanced at his watch. “So…any idea what’s become of Buffy and Angel? Should’ve been back by now.”

“Maybe they ran into trouble.”

Spike shook his head. “Streets are quiet. Too bloody quiet for my taste, actually.”

“Should we call them?”

“Nah. They’ll be along. Buffy’s gonna want updates on Dawn. If my watch is right, Brigadier Boredom’s put ‘em on the helicopter by now.”

Willow’s eyes widened. “Oh, no. Oh God, no.”

“Fine, then.” Spike huffed. “I’ll cut out the silly military names, all right?”

“That’s not what I meant…though that is getting tired.”

“Duly noted. Now, what’s the problem?”

“I totally forgot.”

“Forgot what?”

Willow covered her face in her hands. “I was supposed to brief Dawn and Fred about something. Can we…call them, maybe?”

Again the vampire looked at his watch. “Doubt it. Should be in the air. What are we talkin’ about here, exactly?”

“Well…it’s not life threatening or anything. Probably. Just…the pilot.”

“What about him?”

*****************************************

“Everybody ok in here, girls?!”

Two quick nods.

“First time in a helo?!”

Dawn and Fred repeated the gesture.

“Ladies, you got nothing to worry about. Been flyin’ babies like this since before either of you were born. Two tours in the paddies. Trust me, ain’t nothin’ like a buncha zipperheads firing on you while pickin’ up strays.”

Dawn would always wonder what possessed her to respond at that moment.

“Ummm…zipperheads?”

“Yeah.” He turned his head, his headphones and goggles tilting slightly. “You know…Slopes. Gooks. The Viet-freakin’-Cong. Shit, don’t they teach any of this to kids now?”

The women exchanged uncomfortable glances. From her rear seat, Fred nodded toward the front windshield.

“Shouldn’t you be watching…you know, the sky?”

His lips curled into a condescending grin. “Nothin’ in front of us, sweetie. No worries. Now, the ‘Cong, they had-“

Fred had determined to tune him out for the rest of the flight. They were roughly one thousand feet above the earth, cruising at roughly one hundred twenty miles per hour. She’d never had a problem with flying, per se. In fact, Fred particularly appreciated the rush of taking off. As a little girl, she’d accompanied her father on a business trip to Tulsa. As they’d taxied down the runway of Love Field, she’d closed her eyes and imagined herself as Sally Ride, catapulting herself into the heavens on a wing, a prayer and liquid hydrogen-fueled engines capable of thirty-seven million horsepower.

That exhilharated feeling upon takeoff had never totally left her…but helicopters were different animals altogether No big surge of power that forced her to lean back into her seat. Just a slow, steady rise from terra firma amidst the nearly deafening whup-whup of rotors. Still…pretty darn cool in its way.

Until their pilot decided to make small talk.

Fred prided herself on her ability to read people upon meeting them; it had taken precisely one point two seconds to intensely dislike this man. He appeared to be in his early fifties, with unnaturally black hair for a man his age. A western shirt, snakeskin boots and a pair of jeans that were at least two sizes too small completed the ensemble. Here was a man who wasn’t growing old gracefully.

None of this disturbed her at first. If a guy wanted to live out his years performing the role of an ageless rhinestone cowboy, who was she to judge? As long as he knew how to fly, that was all that mattered. Still, there was an air of arrogance about him that immediately made her edgy. While she knew it wasn’t uncommon for pilots to carry a chip on their shoulder – it was, after all, a dangerous job at times – this man apparently wore a permanent smirk of self-satisfaction. Instead of shaking hands, he’d gallantly lifted the women’s hands and kissed the back. Fred had barely restrained herself from rolling her eyes.

The bad first impression only worsened when he openly ogled Dawn from behind as she climbed into the front seat of the helicopter. That smirk had very briefly changed into a leer that made Fred’s stomach roll.

This guy better be good, she’d thought as she snapped her belts into place.

At first, everything had been fine. Sure, there’d been a nervous moment or two – a helicopter takeoff was a unique experience for veterans, much less first timers – but she’d relaxed when they’d ascended smoothly through the air. The man was indeed a fine pilot. Far below her the Los Angeles River snaked through the city like a garden hose that had been left in the sun too long, brown and hazy in the smog-filtered moonlight.

She’d just been peering out her window in search of the Hyperion when their pilot had started going.

And going…

“-had tunnels all over the goddamn country. Literally networks that led for miles. Saw ‘em for myself a coupla years back. Took the tour. Talk about a shithole; I don’t know how they managed to stay down there. Trust me on this, Dawn – that was your name, right? Dawn? Yeah…anyway, I don’t care how many times we carpet bombed those pointy-hatted motherfuckers, they’d just dig themselves out and keep coming. You gotta respect that after a while, right?”

Dawn merely nodded dumbly. Fred sighed inwardly; poor Dawnie clearly needed some work on the art of brushing people off. A nod could only encourage him. On the other hand, maybe she found the guy fascinating…in a creepy sort of way. Dawn was pretty much endlessly curious about people.

“All this country got outta that war was about sixty thousand dead kids. Personally, I got me some nice medals…and a nasty case of the clap.” He cackled to himself. “Prob’ly too much info there, huh? Sorry ‘bout that. My name’s Jack, by the way. Jack Treadway. I’d shake your hand, but kinda busy flyin’ right now.”

The expression on Dawn’s face suggested that she wasn’t exactly eager about touching him, especially given the most recent factoid.

“So…you two know Alex and Willow, then?”

This time Dawn managed to avoid nodding, but it turned out to be a futile attempt. Subtlety was apparently lost on Captain Jack.

“Good kids, those two. Little wet behind the ears, but other than that-“

“Excuse me,” Dawn interrupted. “I’m sorry, but I have to ask. How did you come to meet them, exactly?”

For the first time, there was a hesitation. “I met Willow first, actually.”

“You’re kidding.”

Jack chuckled. “What, you don’t see how we could hit it off? Anyone ever share that saying with you about books, covers and judging?”

“It’s just…well…you know what? Let’s just forget I asked.”

“No, it’s ok. ‘Bout sixty years ago, my dad was getting ready to ship out for a little war of his own. Had himself a little fling with a British Army nurse to pass the time. Turns out someone didn’t pull out of the harbor in time, if you know what I mean.” Jack guffawed. “Anyway, poor ol’ Dad didn’t even know he had a daughter ‘til she sent him a letter from Cambridge twenty years later. I had myself a half-sister. She ended up settling in Westbury.”

Dawn blinked. “Oh. Ok.” She turned to Fred. “Willow spent some time there…a few years ago.”

Jack went on as if she hadn’t spoken. “I’d seen Willow before, ‘cause of the whole family connection. First time we actually spoke was in a pub called the Horse & Groom. I’d stopped in for a pint, and there she was, sittin’ all by herself in a little corner booth.”

Fred couldn’t help herself. “Family connection?”

Jack shrugged. “We have similar interests. Anyway, I figured I’d just say hey, you know? None of us had been allowed to speak to her before…plus, she was kinda hot.”

His grin was met with silence.

“Right. Anyway, she’s sippin’ on a pint when I try to introduce myself. She doesn’t say so much as a word. No ‘hi, how are you,’ no ‘get the fuck away from me,’ not even a facial expression. She just gave me this cold stare…I swear it was the look on a person’s eyes when they’re dead. Just…empty. I was about to turn around and leave when the barmaid comes up to check on her and accidentally bumps Willow’s arm. Spilled Guinness all over her shirt.”

Jack shuddered involuntarily. “That’s when I knew why no one was allowed to talk with her. Her eyes changed…SO fast. Serious, scary-ass shit.” He glanced at Dawn. “Kinda hard to describe exactly what it looked like-“

“That’s ok.” She said quickly, swallowing hard. “What happened after that?”

“Well, the barmaid was in the process of apologizing when she gets a look at the blackest eyes I’ve ever seen. Obviously she backs away in a hurry, right? Says somethin’ real fast about getting Willow a fresh one and takes off. Before I know it, Willow throws a few pound notes on the table and heads outta the place. I can hear her whisperin’ to herself in Chinese – you know, that chop-socky shit about maintaining control or whatever? Christ knows why, but I went after her, tryin’to ask if she needs a coat or something – gets chilly over there at night, even in July. She turns around…real slow-like. Her eyes are kinda flickering now, from brown to black; when she talks, her voice almost has an echo. Creepiest thing I’ve ever heard. Anyway, she practically whispers ‘How do you know who I am?’ I tell her my sister’s big with the Coven.

She takes a real deep breath, and for a sec I thought I was fucked. I’ve been around a while, ladies, and lemme tell you, I’ve never sensed that much power. Finally she tells me she snuck out for the night, ‘cause she needed some breathing space and thought she could handle it. ‘I was obviously wrong,’ she says, lookin’ like she’s about to start bawling. I did the standard ‘Hey, it’ll be ok’ thing, but she just started to walk away like she didn’t hear me. A minute later she turned back and asked me to keep quiet about what I saw. Said she’d find a way to repay me someday, and promised to ‘be good’ from now on.”

Jack chuckled to himself.

“Seriously, she said ‘be good.’ Like the most powerful witch I’d ever seen is a little kid. Anyway, I said ‘Sure, no prob.’ She said ‘Thanks,’ I walked her back to the estate…and here I am.”

There was silence in the helicopter for a long minute. Fred spoke hesitantly.

“So…if your sister is that gifted with magic, does that mean-“

Jack held up a hand. “We’re a mile out, girls. Showtime.”

Dawn turned. “Show-“

The helicopter disappeared before she could finish.

****Offices of Wolfram and Hart, Main Lobby****

“Hey. You the one that made a service call on the coffee maker?”

The night watchman had an island-like guard station that was one step up from the floor, surrounded by a myriad of switches and a single black and white television. He looked down, clearly annoyed by the interruption.

“I didn’t call anyone.”

The tall man in coveralls glared. “You’re telling me I got called away from watching Sportscenter on a false alarm?”

The guard shrugged, indifferently regarding the repairman from his elevated perch . “Hey, don’t look at me. I don’t even drink coffee.”

“Well, shit. Now what do I do?”

“Give the day shift a call in the morning. I can’t let anybody in past ten o’clock anyway.”

“I got the damn call half an hour ago! There’s no one else here?”

The guard sighed heavily. “Just security guys like me. We got three others who rotate. Right now they’re all making rounds through the building. Not that it matters, ‘cause none of them are letting you in either. Service calls are for regular business hours only.”

The repairman spread his hands. “Can you at least call ‘em? You gotta have a radio or something.”

“I just told you-”

“Hey, you got Sportscenter on over there?”

“Yeah.”

“They show the Laker highlights yet?”

“No. Just hockey crap so far.”

“Could you at least let me watch ‘em before I go? Just be a minute, I promise.”

The guard rolled his eyes. “Fine, whatever.” He motioned him around to the little entrance. The repairman hustled around eagerly, peering over the guard’s shoulder.

“Christ, look how they foul Shaq and call nothing! How can the NBA let them get away with that!?”

The guard shrugged. “It’s the only way anyone can slow him down. Keep watching, Kobe’s about to get hacked too-“

“Say, does that switch over there turn off the security cameras?”

“What? Dude, I can’t tell you-“

The chop to the back of his neck cut off the rest of his sentence.

“That’s ok. I already knew the answer anyway.” Riley said, reaching out to flip the master switch before the guard’s body hit the floor.

****************************************

Faith gave Xander a little smile. “You ok?”

He sighed harshly. “What, a man can’t go out for a drink if he wants to? Wait, don’t answer that. I keep forgetting.” He slid out of the booth. “Guess you’d better escort me to safety.”

He swayed slightly as he stood, causing Faith to instinctively put a hand on his arm. After a moment, he disengaged himself.

“I’m still capable of walking. Some of the time, at least. We can hold our liquor, you know. Just need a minute to powder my nose.”

Faith frowned as he walked away slowly. “We?”

Buffy sought out the waitress, doing a pantomime of writing a check once she caught her eye. “He’s not talking about us.”

“Uh-huh. He’s in the ‘woe is me’ stage?”

Buffy gave the check a cursory glance before pulling out her Amex card. “Judging by how many he’s had, the ‘falling on my face’ stage is fast approaching.” She watched Xander enter the men’s room. He hadn’t been exaggerating; under the circumstances he was walking with remarkable steadiness. “If I drank that much, I’d be a staggering idiot.”

Faith gave a little smile. “He weighs twice as much as you, B. Gotta develop a hell of a tolerance to catch up.”

“Let’s hope I never have to test that theory. Tried to call you, by the way.”

“Yeah, I figured. Once I heard from Willow I turned my phone off. Thought we might have to talk some after I got here.”

The receipt arrived; Buffy’s lips moved silently as she inwardly calculated the tip.

“How much is it?”

Buffy waved her hand. “Don’t worry. I’ve got it.”

“C’mon, B, that isn’t necessary-“

“I’ll make you a deal: you take a small piece of advice from me, and we’ll call it even.”

There was a hesitation.

“Think I’d rather pay the check.”

“Ha ha.”

“Fine, what?”

“Might want to hold off on the talking until tomorrow morning. He needs a little time.”

Faith watched the bathroom door as she spoke. “Why, what’d he say to you?”

“Enough to make me feel sure I’m right about this. Ok?”

“Yeah. All right.” At that moment Xander became visible, making a turn toward the exit without hesitating.

“There he is.” Buffy slipped her credit card back into her purse and stood quickly to catch up. Faith put a gentle hand on her arm.

“We’ll just keep him in sight, ok?”

Buffy frowned. “What if he reaches that falling down stage?”

“Then I’ll pick him up. Until then, let’s take your advice and give him some space, ‘kay?”

“I guess you know him best.”

Faith snorted out a laugh. “Yeah, right.”

They left the bar together; Xander was roughly twenty yards ahead of them.

“Seems like he knows where he’s going.” Buffy said.

“Must be nice. While we have a sec, can I ask you something?”

“Shoot.”

“This spell that knocked Willow up. What exactly went on?”

Buffy cut her eyes toward Faith. “We already explained this. No one actually-“

“No, I got that. If I thought otherwise…” Her face darkened for a moment. “Well, you know.”

“Yeah.”

“Right. Anyway, I can follow along with this mystical conception or whatever. What I meant was, what did the spell actually feel like?”

Buffy said nothing for a long moment.

“It’s hard to explain.”

“Give it a shot.”

“I guess…the best way to say it is like this: we saw into each other’s heads. Events we’d all been a part of were in there…the best way to describe it would be a mental scrapbook.”

“So…you walked memory lane together or something?”

“Yes, but it went deeper than that. It wasn’t just the experiences themselves, but what they felt like. How we reacted individually to different things. Plus, I saw stuff that happened to them that I didn’t even know about…and vice versa.”

“Sounds simple enough if you know people pretty well.”

Buffy chuckled to herself. “Then I’m telling it wrong. Let me put it another way: dying was a lot simpler. You’re pretty much alone there.”

Faith just nodded; they walked silently for minute.

“Can I ask why you wanted to know?”

“No real reason. Maybe I’m a little jealous that you two know him better than me.”

Buffy shook her head. “I don’t think that’s true at all. You can know people without sharing every memory in their head. Plus, they change. You know that better than anyone.”

Faith shrugged noncommittally, causing Buffy to stop and speak earnestly.

“It’s true. Willow and I might know the teenage Xander better, but not the man.”

“Maybe.” Faith nodded in his direction. “Looks like the man’s about to reach the hotel. Let’s catch up.”

****************************************

“Could we possibly refrain from the constant banter and attempt what might pass for mature conversation?”

Lilah slipped off the dining table. “Figured you were out of practice talking to adults. Anyway, that wasn’t banter. It was an offer.”

“An offer I’ve no plans of considering. Surely you understand that by now.” Wesley’s voice was weary.

“Night’s young, Wes. Hope you’re hungry; I’ve been slaving over a stove for hours.”

Wesley smiled slightly. “Why don’t I believe that?”

“Hey. Don’t underestimate my dedication here.” She motioned toward her leather loveseat. “Take a load off. I’ll go check on the food. Want some wine?”

“Yes, thank you.”

*****************************************

Dawn and Fred shrieked simultaneously, causing Jack to jerk in surprise.

“Jesus H. Christ! Kinda defeatin’ the purpose here!!”

Dawn was panting so heavily she could hardly form words.

“Where…why can’t I…am I floating?”

Jack laughed. “No, sweetheart. You’re still in the copter. Reach beneath you. Seat’s still there.”

Fred’s voice was faint. “Can’t see anything.”

“Kinda the point, hon. What, you thought we’d just land on top of a building with this kinda security without being noticed?”

Dawn had done what she was told, still having a hard time catching her breath. The seat was still there, as he’d said…but there appeared to be nothing between her and the earth one thousand feet below. She forced her gaze back toward Jack.

“Invisibility spell?”

“Yeah. Damn good one too,” Jack said proudly. “I even threw in some cool attachments. Notice anything else missing?”

Fred was desperately trying to keep from blacking out. “Rotors…the noise…”

“Points for you, sugar. The copter can’t be seen or heard. Just us. See, check me out.”

He pointed between his legs. “I’m still flying. Hand’s right here on the cyclic.” He leered. “At least I think that’s what it is; size is about the same.”

Dawn felt her face redden. “Why the FUCK didn’t you say something?!”

“About my cyclic?”

“You know what I mean!”

“Hey, chill out. Our voices aren’t muted.”

“We’re not there yet. Answer the question.”

“It ain’t my job to brief you, kid. Xander put in the call, Willow specified the spell, Riley did the run-through with me back at the hangar. Did none of them share this with you?”

Fred took a deep breath, finally starting to feel her heart rate ease back to normal. “This is Willow’s spell?”

Jack was clearly offended.

“Fuck no! I don’t need her to do somethin’ this simple. Just followed the order, that’s all. Ok, we’re here. Might be a good idea to keep the chatter to a minimum.”

Dawn fell silent, keeping herself busy by mentally checking off the people who were going to die horribly once this thing was over.

“Ok, we’re here. Hang on to something…if you can find it.” Jack cackled softly.

Dawn amended her list to add one more as they began their descent.

**********************************

Angel met Xander at the front door of the Hyperion.

“Hey. Everyone’s been-“

“Got the memo. Everyone can take it easy now.”

Vampire senses weren’t necessary to discern where Xander had been. Angel wisely decided to say nothing more as they walked in together. Willow moved quickly over to meet them.

“Angel, you found him! I thought Faith was going to-“

“She’s coming,” Xander interrupted. “Probably trying to give me needed space. Not so much that I can’t be found, though. I’m just too damn breakable.”

He started to head for the stairs, but Willow stepped into his way.

“Hey. We were worried about you,” she said softly. “You just took off.”

Xander put a hand to his hair, running his fingers through it as he slumped against the railing.

“I know.”

“You’ve been drinking.”

“Very perceptive.”

“Drinking makes you into Mr. Cranky Pants.”

“I’m not…can’t a man just go to his room and pass out in peace?”

“You promise to stay close…at least until this is over?”

“Pretty much guaranteeing no movement for the next eight hours. Close enough?”

Faith and Buffy entered the room. Hesitantly, the former edged toward her husband.

“Baby, maybe you should go upstairs and rest.”

“Sure. Does everyone want to come tuck me in? Spike, wanna read me a story?”

Buffy spoke quietly. “Xander-“

“How about a lullaby? Lorne in the house?”

The room fell silent. Xander shrugged theatrically.

“No one? Come on, all of you took time out of your night to make sure I didn’t break curfew. Shouldn’t you make sure the windows are locked? I could sneak out again.”

Faith put a hand on his arm. “Ok. I think we get it.”

He shook his head. “No, I don’t think you do. Please, just…” He put his head down and turned to go upstairs. This time no one stopped him.

Spike raised an eyebrow. “Really IS a Cranky Pants, isn’t he?”

No one responded, quietly dispersing. Buffy motioned Willow into the office where Cordelia was clicking away on her mouse, seemingly oblivious of anything around her. Angel sidled over next to Faith.

“He’ll be ok once he sleeps it off.”

“You think?”

“I know.”

“Awfully sure of yourself lately.”

“Haven’t been wrong yet, have I?”

“Week ain’t over yet.”

“Guess we should stay tuned.”

Faith turned her gaze toward the room she and Xander shared.

“He won’t even look at me.”

“Give it time.”

“He’s usually wicked horny after drinking a few.”

“Thanks for sharing.”

“We might not have any, you know.”

Angel raised an eyebrow as Faith met his gaze.

“Time, I meant.”

“Oh. Well...maybe not. I choose to believe otherwise, though.”

“Why?”

He hesitated a moment.

“Ask me again tomorrow night, after we all make it through this.”

Faith took a deep breath. “’Kay. You got any beer in the fridge?”

“Depends. Are you going to make another hole in the wall?”

She found herself grinning. “Only if there isn’t any.”

“Guess I’d better go with you then.”

He led the way into the kitchen.

****************************************

“Can I ask a question?”

“Shoot.”

“How exactly can you land this thing while it’s invisible?”

Jack turned to face Fred briefly, offering her a wink.

“Leave that to me, sweetie.”

“I want an answer. No more surprises.”

“What’s your problem? I said I’d take care-“

“My problem? My problem?! I just barely managed to avoid a panic attack because a helicopter disappeared around me!”

“Well, hell. You shoulda said something. Barf bags are just to your left-“

“Shut up! Just…stop with the lame-ass act for a second. I saw ‘The Right Stuff’ too. I’m really impressed, ok?! Now could you please talk like a normal person!?”

Jack’s face darkened. “For such a little lady, you gotta big mouth.”

There was a long silence that Dawn nearly found unbearable as they floated through the sky. She closed her eyes. Finally Jack spoke quietly.

“We’re going to be visible for ten seconds while I line her up to land. Ok?”

Fred nodded. “Then you’re going to wait for us, right?”

“Yeah.”

“Was that so difficult?”

Jack just glared at her. Fred glared back.

“Oh, and another thing. We’re not your sweeties, honeys, babies or darlings. We’re paying you good money to do a job, which makes us your bosses. That means for the rest of this trip, you’re going to call us by our names. Or, you can call us ma’am if you’d like. Is that clear?”

After a moment, Jack sighed. “Yeah.”

“Good.”

“You know, I was just tryin’ to make conver-“

“Stop talking. We’re almost there.”

The helicopter silently edged closer to the roof. Dawn opened her eyes as Jack whispered a short incantation. When the windshield materialized in front of her, Fred let out a breath she didn’t realize she was holding. A few seconds later, there was a gentle nudge as the skids touched the cement. Jack immediately made the copter dematerialize again, taking off his headphones and turning to his passengers.

“Ok. You’re on…ma’ams.”

****************************************

Riley strode confidently through the halls in his newly-acquired guard uniform, having memorized every nook and cranny of the blueprints. Not once was he stopped or questioned, which he took as a blessing; it was just Riley’s luck that the guy had been six inches shorter and twenty pounds heavier. The hands in his pockets were working overtime just to keep his clothes on.

Finally he made his way around the corner, spotting the head of security in his customary spot at the end of a hallway that led to the main office. Riley let go of his pants, hoping they would hold up long enough to reach the guy. There was something degrading about fighting in one’s underwear.

“You seen Reynolds?” He called out.

“Reynolds? He’s workin’ front door.”

“Ain’t nobody there now.”

“What are you talkin’ about? I just saw him a few minutes ago.”

“I’m telling you, he ain’t there.”

“Goddamn it. If he went for another candy bar in the middle of his shift, he is outta here. Are you sure?”

“Hey, man…look for yourself. I’ll relieve you here for a minute.”

The guard got up from his chair. “You better not be blowing smoke up my-“ He stopped, taking a closer look. “Wait, who the fuck-“

Riley rushed forward and caught him with a left hook. The guard stumbled back against the door, but Riley was unable to follow up immediately since his pants were now around his ankles. As the guard reached dazedly for his gun, Riley bent over and grabbed a tranq gun from his holster, managing to beat his opponent on the draw.

Moments later, after making sure the guy was completely unconscious, Riley gave up the fight and removed his pants completely before dragging the guard into the room with him.

*****************************************

Dawn took a deep breath. “Ok, we’re set up. You ready?”

Fred shrugged. “Honestly? After what I just went through, this really doesn’t seem all that bad.”

“Good point. Double check your gear.”

They took a few moments to make sure everything was in working order. After exchanging one last nod, they stepped to the edge of the building. Fred studiously avoided looking at the ground, choosing to slowly back her way over. Dawn began to speak softly.

“You’re doing great, Fred. Let’s just take it slow. Plenty of time here. Walk nice and easy…good. Perfect.”

“Dawn?”

“Yeah?”

“I appreciate your support, but could you possibly talk a little less?”

“Sorry.”

“That’s ok.”

They continued moving down, step by agonizing step. Finally, after five minutes that felt more like an eternity, they reached the window. Dawn swallowed hard, then forced herself to remove one hand from her tether and pull out the suction cup.

“Ok…here goes.”

She reached out with a slightly trembling hand and pressed firmly.

“It’s on.”

“Ok.” Fred squeezed her eyes closed, then forced herself to reach for the cutting tool in her belt.

“I’ve got it.”

“Go ahead.”

Slowly, Fred began to cut into the glass in a wide arc. The night was cool, but sweat began running into her eyes. Ignoring the sting, she concentrated on her work. After a minute, she’d reached as far as she could.

“Your turn.”

“Right.”

Dawn slowly removed her hand from the suction cup and held it out. Just as Fred proffered the tool, a gust of wind kicked up, blowing them to one side. Acting on pure instinct, Fred grabbed her rope with her free hand, desperately trying to hug the glass wall.

The cutting tool sailed into the darkness.

****************************************

Riley grabbed a hanky from his prisoner’s pocket and wiped the sweat from his brow. The guard strained against his bonds.

“Mmmmf!”

“Sorry,” Riley said apologetically. “I would’ve used the other guy’s, but that one’s in your mouth.”

He turned back to his job, keeping an eye on the cameras he’d reactivated when he entered the room. He smiled when the other guards discovered the front door sentry’s unconscious form.

“Right on time, guys.”

He took a second to close his eyes and say a silent prayer.

Come on, Dawn. Get it done.

He refocused on the ground alarm system.

*****************************************

“Oh, shit!”

The wind finally slackened. After a long moment to compose herself, Dawn frowned.

“Did you just swear again? That’s twice in one night.”

“I dropped it. Oh, jeez.”

“Fred…take it easy.” Dawn reached down into her own belt. “We have duplicates, remember?”

“Right….right. I knew that.” Fred fought to compose herself, then reached out to grab the suction cup. “Ok…make sure you don’t drop that one.”

“Oh, thanks. I’m much calmer now.”

“Sorry.”

Dawn found the spot where Fred left off and slowly began cutting her own side of the glass. After about thirty seconds, Fred began to feel it give way slightly.

“It’s coming,” she hissed.

Dawn just nodded. “Try to hold it still. Almost there; just don’t let it fall inward.”

She resumed cutting, taking it even slower. Finally she finished where Fred had started. Letting out a breath, she replaced the tool in her pocket.

“Ok, this is the fun part. Scoot sideways.”

They moved in opposite directions; Fred maintained her hold on the suction cup. Once they were in place, Dawn put her hand over Fred’s.

“Ready?”

Fred nodded.

“On three. One…two….”

They yanked simultaneously, causing the window to pop free.

“Let it go!”

The window sailed away, ricocheting against one of its brothers on the second floor before crashing to the parking lot below.

Fred found herself wrapping Dawn in a one-armed embrace. With a smile, Dawn returned it.

“Sorry.”

“Fred, would you stop saying that already? Nice job.”

“You too.”

“We’re not done, you know. That might’ve been the easy part.”

“Right now, a solid floor sounds like a vacation to me.”

Fred prepared to swing one leg through the opening, but Dawn stilled her.

“Wait. We have to check it.”

“Oh, right. I forgot! Sor-“

Dawn silenced her with a look, reaching into another pocket for a spray can. She gave it a long look.

“Was I supposed to shake this?”

Fred looked at her strangely. “Riley never said?”

“I don’t remember. Maybe. I don’t see any directions on here.”

“Would you expect that? I doubt OSHA signs off on this particular item.”

“Hey, you’re the scientist. What do you think?”

“Umm…oh, what the hell. I say shake it.”

“Again with the swearing. I’m telling Gunn.”

“Could we possibly do this before the wind picks up again?”

“Right. Ok…” Dawn shook the can, then sprayed it into the office.

Nothing happened. Dawn looked at Fred.

“That’s a good thing, right?”

“Yes. The lasers would show up. Riley did it.”

“Thank God. All right, you go first through the window, I’m first through the air duct. Fair?”

“Works for me.”

“Sure you don’t wanna back out? Last chance. Right now we’re only guilty of vandalism.”

Fred fixed her gaze on Dawn. “If I have to ride with that asshole up there again, I will NOT go empty-handed.”

“My thoughts exactly. Ok…age before beauty.”

***************************************

Lilah sat back in her chair, her skirt sliding dangerously up her thighs.

“Sooo…what shall we talk about?”

“You know why I’m here.”

“I know what you said. Is that really what you want?”

“Dinner smells wonderful,” Wesley said, trying to steer the conversation in another direction.

“Thank you.”

“What’s on the menu?”

“Chicken cordon bleu with garlic mashed potatoes. I hope you’re hungry.”

“Sounds delicious.” Wes took a long sip of his wine. “Riesling?”

“Chardonnay, actually. Your tongue needs to reacquaint itself with the finer things.”

Wes couldn’t help but smile. “Does your well of double entendres ever run dry?”

“Maybe later. Right now, it’s awfully wet.”

Wesley shook his head. “I was hoping we could have an adult conversation this evening.”

Lilah placed an elbow against the back of the couch and adjusted herself, causing the skirt to rise even more.

“I was hoping for adult activities. Close enough?”

“You never stop, do you?”

“Not until I’m satisfied.”

Wes finished his glass. “How many different ways must I tell you I’m in love with Dawn? What will it require?”

Lilah slowly shook her head. “Nothing. I believe you.”

He raised an eyebrow. “Say again?”

“You heard me right, Wesley. I’ve finally given up.”

“Why don’t I believe that?”

She shrugged. “Guess you’re a suspicious person.”

“And you’re hot?”

“Why, thank you.”

“No, I meant to say…you’re not?”

“Not what?”

“Sus…picious?”

Lilah frowned. “Are you feeling ok, Wes?”

“Yes. Bit tired, perhaps.”

“Of course. All those sleepless nights since little Dawnie left you all alone. I understand. Why don’t you let mama scratch that itch for you?”

Wesley blinked hard, taking a breath. “I told you already-“

“Yeah, I got that. Let’s not belabor the point. How about we move on to a fresh topic?”

“Such…such as?”

“Well, for starters, whatever made you think you could screw with me and get away with it?”

Wesley’s head was swimming; Lilah’s face began to go in and out of focus. She stood, pulling her skirt down firmly.

“She must be very nervous about this whole deal, huh? No way this could’ve been her idea.”

“What…what are you…”

“Stop trying to talk. It’s unbecoming. Just listen for once, ‘kay? I want to share a couple of things with you while there’s still time.”

Wesley’s eyes fell upon the wine glass. He looked back to Lilah, who placed her untouched one on the coffee table.

“For what it’s worth, I actually believed that little bitch when she came storming in. I give her points for commitment. Unfortunately, you had to get involved. Let me break it down for you: Wesley Wyndham-Pryce. Great researcher, generally righteous, surprisingly talented in the sack. On the other hand, you might just be the shittiest liar on this earth.”

Wes willed himself to speak. “This…is between….you…

“And I? Or is it me? I always mess that up.”

Lilah sat next to him, moving ruby-red lips within an inch of his.

“I wanted it to be between us, Wes. Hell, I even gave you one last chance when you first came in. After round one, I’d have called off the dogs…but you just couldn’t bear getting that far into the role, could you? You had to be the faithful man.”

She shook her head. “That’s why I’ll always beat you, Wes. You can’t bear to be unpredictable.”

“Li….lah…”

“Don’t fight it, sweetheart. A change is coming. You can’t stop it, no matter what you might have been trying to pull tonight. Which reminds me...”

To Wesley, she appeared to be moving in slow motion across the room. Reaching for her purse…dialing. Every beeping sound echoed in his head.

“Close the net,” were the last words he heard before collapsing bonelessly against the couch.

- End Chapter Twenty-eight -