Trust

by Rob Sorenson

Chapter Thirty

Fred watched the helicopter fly away with wide eyes, while Dawn had already shifted her focus, eyeing the distance between herself and Lilah’s pistol.

“I can smell your mind working, little one. Might be best if it takes a little time off.”

Dawn spoke slowly through gritted teeth. “What have you done to him?”

“A lot more than you’ll ever learn to do. Oh, wait…that’s not exactly what you meant, was it?”

Fred jumped slightly as a guard spoke from behind her.

“Miss Morgan? Building is locked down again. Alarm’s been restored.”

She simply nodded, not taking her gaze from Dawn’s.

“Would you like us to take care of the prisoners from here? The police-“

“No police. We’re handling this in-house.”

Dawn could’ve sworn she heard an audible gulp from the guard.

“As in….the basement, ma’am?”

Lilah smirked. “Hey now…there’s a thought.” She made a show of putting a forefinger to her lips. “Nahhh, not just yet. I’m taking them on a little field trip.”

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

“Riley, what’s going on?” Buffy’s voice was tight.

(Hold on.)

There was a long silence; only rustling noises could be heard from the speaker phone in Angel’s office.

(I have to get back to you.)

“RILEY!!”

(I don’t know yet, all right?! If they weren’t on the chopper…)

Buffy flung the speaker into the wall, sending pieces ricocheting around the small space. Before anyone could react, she was stalking out of the office, taking a sharp left toward the weapons cabinet.

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

“Our time draws near. The vultures sing a merry tune of wonder, calling us home!”

The vampire who once was a teenaged prostitute looked around. “I don’t hear anything.”

Drusilla turned to face the recently turned girl, smiling slowly. “Silly trollops. Little dollies with tattered dresses, expecting the gentlemen to call. Yours is not to hear them, only to obey.”

“Yes, mistress.”

“Mmmmmm,” Drusilla moaned with pleasure as she began to spin with outstretched arms. “My boys are going to be there, and we shall dance the day away.” She stopped abruptly, fixing a wide-eyed gaze on her companion. “The vultures have insisted it to be so.”

“Ummm…yes, mis-“

“Does everyone have their baubles?”

“I’m sorry?”

Dru’s face darkened. “Your verse fails to amuse, child.” She held up her hand. The vampire’s face cleared in recognition.

“Oh, yes! Everyone’s is accounted for.”

“Where might yours be?”

“Mine? In my purse. I figured since it was night time and all-“

“Of course. The cursed sun lays in wait, however. I recall being clear about wearing them at all times.”

“Right. I’ll just get-“

The girl never finished her sentence, now little more than motes of dust hitching a ride on the soft evening breeze. The stake Drusilla had whipped out from somewhere in the folds of her dress was out of sight before anyone could register its appearance.

Dru raised her voice slightly. “I DO hope everyone else has their baubles.”

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

Riley swallowed hard when he saw Dawn and Fred hustled through the main lobby of Wolfram and Hart. The cordon of security around them was fully armed and serious; force clearly wasn’t a realistic option at the moment. He cursed himself inwardly; there hadn’t been time to form any kind of contingency plan. Not for the first time, he regretted not bringing his wife along; Sam never seemed to be at a loss.

Ok, so you screwed up. Are you just going to sit there and pout or do something? C’mon, soldier…improvise.

“Thanks, honey. That’s not telling me anything I didn’t already know.”

That’s because it isn’t really me, Finn. The channeling thing isn’t going to cut it. You could just try to call me, you know. I’d send the cavalry so fast it’d make your head spin.

“I don’t doubt that. Even you can’t get here this fast, though.”

Wasn’t talking about Dawn and Fred. That’s your deal.

“Then why would I even try-“

Put away the guilt for a sec and focus on the big picture.

Riley opened his eyes, taking a deep breath as Lilah came into view.

“They’re on the move.”

Time’s up, Finn. Any thoughts?

“A couple, actually. First of all, if I’m having imaginary conversations with you it might be a good idea to take an extended leave.”

No argument here. What’s the other one?

“A much less sensible idea.”

Hurriedly, he stripped off his olive green T-shirt.

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

Angel stepped in front of his assortment of swords and axes.

“Buffy, wait.”

“Get out of the way.”

“We need to talk about this-“

“Nothing to talk about. You really should move now.”

Angel held his ground. “If you want to hit me, go ahead. Either way, you’ll have to think rationally.”

Buffy’s hands shook. “Angel-“

“You can’t go, Buff.” Xander said quietly from the base of the stairs. Buffy spun to face him.

“You don’t understand. It’s-”

“I know who it is.”

She stared at him for a long moment before turning back to face Angel. “I don’t want to fight you. Please just-“

“You can’t go for the same reason you sent everyone around to find me, Buffy. We can’t risk anything happening to you before tomorrow.”

This time Buffy didn’t turn around. “Shouldn’t you be sleeping it off?”

Xander smiled grimly. “Nah. Gimme a couple dozen Advils and I’m good to go. Buff-“

“It’s different with me.”

Angel kept his voice even. “It’d be harder for them to get you, yes…but you’ve died before. From what you’ve told me, tomorrow comes before everything.”

Buffy’s eyes widened. “I don’t care about tomorrow any more! I care about Dawn! That’s it! If you think I’m just going to let her…” She trailed off.

Spike approached her, speaking softly. “That will not happen.” He exchanged a glance with Angel and Faith before framing her face in his hands. “We’ll protect her. I swear it.”

“You’ve made that promise to me before.”

It was as if the air had been let out of the room. Spike dropped his hands, recoiling as if he’d been slapped. After a long minute, Angel spoke evenly.

“You know this is the way to handle this.”

“I don’t know anything.” Buffy whispered as she sat on the couch, taking her head in her hands. Willow crossed the room and took the Slayer’s hand.

“Yes you do.”

Buffy’s gaze fell to Willow’s belly. She stared for a moment, then closed her eyes and nodded.

Faith strode toward the weapons chest. “Dibs on the axe.”

Angel frowned. “They’re my weapons. You can’t take dibs out on any of them.”

“Fine. Would you like the axe, sir?”

“Actually I’ll take the broadsword. Just making a point.”

Rolling her eyes, Faith removed the axe and tossed it from one hand to the other.

“Nice balance. Spike, which one you want?”

There was no answer. She turned, noticing him staring at the floor.

“Spike?”

“What’s that you say?”

“We gotta move. Weapon?”

“Oh. Any of the sharp ones’ll do.”

“Could we narrow that down a touch?”

He pointed. “Thin one.”

Faith pulled it out of the cabinet and handed it to him hilt-first. “It’s called a wakizashi.”

Spike sighed wearily. “I know what they call it.” He headed for the front steps of the hotel. Buffy lifted her head as he walked past.

“William-“

“You’re upset.” It was all he could manage as he closed the door behind him.

Cordelia spoke loudly from the corner office. “Angel?! Get in here!”

*****Two Minutes Earlier*****

Riley hung up the cell and stepped out of his borrowed Hummer, fastening the belt of his stolen security uniform as he surveyed the guard situation outside the front door. Only one man stood watch, though the M-16 slung over his shoulder served to compensate for the lack of manpower. After taking one last glance inside the building to make certain Lilah was leading Dawn and Fred out the front door, Riley bent as low as he could and sprinted through the shadows.

Twenty incredibly long seconds later, he ducked behind a tree and willed himself to catch his breath in silence. After a few moments, he flattened himself against the oak and risked taking a peek at the door guard. Please don’t let this guy be a pro, Riley thought to himself. A trained soldier never turned his or her back on potentially hostile territory.

Come on, everybody’s coming out that door. You know you’re curious…

Riley’s prayers were answered seconds later as the guard heard the approaching footsteps from inside and turned to see who was coming out.

He never even got a chance to focus before Riley reached him, clamping one hand over his mouth, while chopping the back of his neck with the other. Using strength fueled by desperation, Riley literally tossed the guard’s limp form behind perfectly manicured shrubbery that decorated the front entrance of the law office, managing to grab the M-16 in the process.

No more than three seconds later, the front door opened. Riley stood ramrod straight, facing the parking lot as the group walked by. Dawn and Fred were walking under their own power; Riley allowed himself to breathe the slightest sigh of relief.

Ok, here comes the really fun part.

As the last guard shuffled by, Riley slipped behind him and walked normally, as if he’d been there all the time. When the cordon made a turn, he purposely nudged the guard in front of him.

“Sorry.”

The guard jumped slightly and turned, relaxing when he saw the uniform. “Thought I was rear guard.”

“Miss Morgan ordered a couple of extras. Girls must be tougher than they look, huh?”

The guard merely shrugged and turned back toward the front. Riley let out a breath he didn’t know he was holding and slipped a hand into his pocket as they reached the parking lot.

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

Angel hustled into the corner office, closely followed by Buffy.. “What is it?”

Cordy put her hand over the receiver and whispered: “I think it’s Riley.”

“Let me talk to him.” Buffy held out her hand, but Cordy shook her head.

“Cordy, come on!”

“He’s not talking to me!” Cordy whispered harshly. “I think we’re supposed to be listening in.”

“What? You’re not making sense.”

“Well, I’d explain it by putting this on speaker, but a certain someone decided to slay it!”

“Cordy,” Angel said softly. “Can we put it on speaker from the front desk?”

She nodded, motioning them out. Angel made his way out, holding up a hand.

“Everybody be quiet!”

Everyone exchanged glances. Faith raised an eyebrow.

“No one was talking.”

“Right. Well…keep it that way and come in here. You’ll want to hear this.”

The group quickly gathered around the front desk. Angel gave everyone a last look, raising a forefinger to his lips. After the shuffling of feet stopped, he moved the same finger over the phone…and hesitated.

“Um…which button is it?”

Cordelia rolled her eyes, motioning abruptly for Angel to get out of the way. Moments later, Riley’s voice filled the room, apparently in mid-conversation.

(…WE GOING, ANYWAY?)

Another muffled voice responded; the group all moved in closer to hear.

(What’s with the shouting, man?)

(SORRY. GULF WAR SYNDROME…MESSES UP MY HEARING SOMETIMES WHEN I’M UNDER STRESS.)

Willow gave Xander a look, mouthing “Gulf War Syndrome?” He shook his head and shrugged.

(Well, take it easy. Like you said, a couple of skinny chicks shouldn’t be all that tough, right?)

(THANKS. SO…WE GOING FAR? LONG CAR TRIPS MAKE ME NAUSEOUS.)

(Could you please hold it down? Jesus. No, we’re just headed to the boss’s apartment.)

(OK. DAMN, SO HOW COME WE’VE BROUGHT TWELVE GUYS WITH M-16’S FOR SUCH A SIMPLE TRANSFER?)

(You wanna ask Miss Morgan? We can pull up alongside and roll down the window.)

(RIGHT. HA. PROBABLY SHOULDN’T DO THAT. )

Faith could almost see the guard rolling his eyes through the telephone. Suddenly Spike opened the front door, flicking a cigarette into the street behind him.

“So what the hell are we doing? There some sort of plan?”

Buffy motioned frantically as Cordy broke the connection.

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

The guard gave Riley a look. “What the hell was that?”

“What?”

“That noise.”

Riley adjusted his hips, managing to slip a hand over his pocket and press “end.”

“Sorry about that. Probably something I ate.”

The guard grimaced. “Dude, how did you ever pass the physical? You’re a friggin wreck.”

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

“Dammit, Spike!”

He blinked. “What?”

“Riley was…” Buffy stopped herself, running a hand through her hair. “Maybe you were far enough away.”

“Far enough for…” Spike spread his hands. “You know, I don’t bloody care. You want me away? Done.” He pointedly turned to Angel. “Be right outside when it’s time.”

He didn’t bother to wait for a response. Buffy took a long look at the door before deciding to follow. Faith watched her leave, then turned her attention back to the others.

“Ok, we got a location. We mounting up or what?”

Angel nodded. “We have a couple of minutes. Lilah’s apartment is a mile and a half down the street from here. They’ve got half an hour in front of them.”

“Right, so we know where Dawn and Fred are.” Xander said. “What’s the deal with Wes? Wasn’t he playing Mata Hari here?”

“Looks like he didn’t get a good review.”

“So…do you think he’s…”

“No.” Cordy answered sharply. After sharing an uncomfortable glance with Angel, she sighed. “I don’t…see that happening.”

No one spoke for a moment.

“So…we’re trusting Lilah Morgan to have feelings?” Willow asked.

Angel took his time before answering.

“That’s what makes her so dangerous. You never know exactly where she’s coming from.”

“Oh, please.” Cordy said, rolling her eyes. “You have to make everything so tricky. Lilah’s the simplest person I know.”

Angel blinked. “I think I’ve spent more time around her than you-“

“So? You could spend twenty years with her and not get it. See, you always look for complexities when it comes to women. There has to be this deep-seated emotional motive for everything. You want to know the secret to Lilah?” Cordelia poked her finger at Angel’s chest. “Bitch hates to lose. Any other concerns come after that.”

Xander raised a hand. “Ummm…it WAS just you that said she wouldn’t hurt Wes, right?”

Cordy met his eyes. “Depends on whether or not she thinks she’s lost.”

Faith took a breath. “Ok, let’s assume things are bad. Here’s some good: I’m feelin’ pretty goddamn dangerous myself right now. We gonna do this thing or talk all night?”

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

After taking a moment to look back and forth, Buffy spotted the curls of smoke wafting from the alley between the Hyperion and Keturah’s Adult Emporium. Hesitantly, she walked around the corner.

Spike was standing with one foot braced against the wall, cigarette dangling loosely from the corner of his mouth. Buffy looked down for a moment, studying the contrast between his pale thumbs and the black belt loops on which they were hooked. Finally, she found her voice to speak.

“Whatcha doin’?”

He glanced down at the cigarette, quirked an eyebrow and said nothing. The Slayer offered a weak smile.

“Right. The old nic fix before the big battle. I’d forgotten the time-honored rituals.”

After a long silence, Buffy fastened her gaze on him. “Look, I-“

“Don’t.” Spike said without removing the cigarette from his lips. Tendrils rose into the LA sky, scattering mosquitoes who had congregated near the street light. “Made it pretty clear already.”

“Spike-“

“Won’t do any good to have this conversation right now. Just leave it, all right?”

“You said it yourself a few minutes ago. I was upset.”

Spike snorted, tossing the cigarette into a puddle. “Said that to calm the locals. Truth is, you meant every word of it.”

“That’s not true. I just-“

“Buffy, Buffy,” Spike interrupted, turning his face to the sky. “Just stop. Please. This isn’t the time-”

“Would you let me finish a sentence, please?!”

Spike looked back down, eyes widening. “Are you not listening?! I don’t…want…to talk to you. All right?”

He brushed past her, but Buffy grabbed his arm and spun him around.

“No, it’s not all right! What if we don’t-“ She stopped, forcing her voice to a more even tone. “You clearly have something you want to say to me.”

Spike swallowed hard. “Fine. I love you.”

Buffy blinked, finding herself speechless. Spike touched her cheek gently as he continued.

“I love you more than I ever thought I could love anyone. Whatever good is in me, you helped bring it out. Still…you speak of family. How together we all are…and I think you want to believe it. Thing is…even after all we’ve been through together, the moment things get bad, they’re all just words.”

“What? Where is this coming from?”

“You still try to pull away. Distance yourself, as if we’re somehow less than you.“

Buffy shook her head. “This…you’re making too much of this. God, do I have to spell it out? Dawn could be…you know how she could be. So I said something stupid, ok? You’ll just have to forgive me for caring about my sister-“

“Of course I’ll forgive you. We all do that. All the time. Been doin’ it for years.”

Buffy sighed harshly, shaking her head.

“You know what? You were right the first time. Just forget it.”

“You wanted to talk.”

“Things change.”

This time it was Spike who laid a restraining hand on Buffy’s arm.

“Your feelings matter more than anyone else’s, is that it?”

“Spike, let me go.”

“Not until you look at me.”

Buffy met his eyes, and immediately softened when she saw tears brimming from them.

“Spike-“

“Can’t tell you how many nights I’ve seen Travers’s face when I try to sleep.”

Buffy looked away, suddenly unable to meet his eyes.

“The look in his eyes while he sank into that soddin’ river, wheelchair and all. I know I did what I had to…wouldn’t change it. Still, that stare…while he was sinkin’…the demon in me didn’t kill him, Buffy. I did. I killed him because he would have never stopped trying to destroy us.”

He took his hand away from her face, leaning back against the wall and lighting another cigarette. Buffy remained silent as he took a deep drag, speaking as he exhaled.

“You’ve got every damned reason to be upset right now. Want to break everything in sight? Go on, then. Hell, blame Finn if it’s important to lash out. Not a big fan of the bloke myself, though it looks like he’s risking his life for her right now. But I will not…I will not…”

He threw the cigarette aside and turned to face her again, voice finally breaking.

“You’ve no right to talk to me the way you did. She means as much to me as you, and you bloody well oughta know that by now.”

Buffy said nothing, suddenly unable to meet his eyes. After a long moment, Spike wiped his eyes roughly with the sleeve of his duster and turned to leave.

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

“Oh. OH!”

“What?” Angel questioned.

Cordelia didn’t respond, walking quickly toward the office. Angel looked at the others, shrugged and followed.

“Cordy, what’s-“

“Hang on. I’m Googling.”

“We don’t have a lot of time here.”

She looked up from her screen, tilting her head.

“Hello? I know that. The sooner you let me-“

“Fine. Google on.”

Cordy returned to clicking rapidly on her mouse. “You know, I’d already have this for you if a certain boss I know hadn’t been so damn cheap.”

Angel sighed. “Can we not talk about this right now?”

Xander sat on the edge of the desk. “I didn’t know you were cheap.”

“I’m not…there’s a difference between cheap and fiscally responsible.”

“Uh-huh. You’re a boss, all right. Starting to sound like Will.”

“Hey!” Willow complained from the doorway. “I’ve never once said you couldn’t spend whatever you needed.”

“You don’t have to say it. Your body language tells me everything.”

“What are you talking about?”

“Come on. All I have to do is mention the words ‘extra hours’ and you stiffen up like a board.”

“Oh, right. See, I have this silly notion about the necessity of paying overtime if we’re THREE MONTHS ahead of schedule.”

“Could we have some quiet, please?” Cordy said, scowling.

Xander looked chastened. “Sorry. You need to concentrate.”

“Actually, no. I’m waiting for this screen to pull up. You two just always give me a headache.”

“We’ll be good.” Willow promised. She sidled next to Angel. “I’m sure whatever you did to cut costs, you had the agency’s best interest in mind.”

“Thank you.”

“Excuse me?!” Cordy’s eyes widened. “Why do you think I’m just sitting here? He’ll only spring for dial-up.”

“Well, it works perfectly fine, doesn’t it?” Angel countered. He turned to Willow. “You see what I have to go through?”

Willow’s jaw had dropped. “Hang on. Dial-up? Are you out of your friggin’ mind?”

“I thought you said-“

“We never talked about denying employees of the bare necessities. Why not go all the way and make Cordy build a fire to heat up her lunch?”

“Don’t give him any ideas.” Cordy cautioned. “Ok, I’ve got it.” She glanced at Angel. “Finally. Come look at today’s edition of the LA Times.”

The group gathered in front of the monitor:

KOBE’S KNEE MAKES HIM GAME TIME DECISION TOMORROW NIGHT

Faith shrugged. “Ok…and? I’m a Clippers fan.”

Cordy rolled her eyes. “That’s not the point. Remember when Fred sent that message? Not the office supply, the building?”

The frown cleared on Angel’s face. “Oh, no.”

Willow’s frown remained in place. “Ok, I don’t get it.” All eyes fell upon her.

“Seriously?” Faith queried.

Xander patted Willow on the back. “Sports aren’t her thing. Wills, the Lakers play their home games in the Staples Center.”

Willow’s eyes widened. “Oh. You mean the one-“

“That sits about three miles from the Coliseum we’re building, yeah. Which, of course, is where-“

“We meet the bad guys tomorrow.”

Angel exchanged a glance with Faith. “Looks like we’ve got a battle of our own.”

Cordelia sat back in her chair. “Ok, but…if this battle in the Coliseum is all about keeping the walls closed between dimensions, what would be the point of sending Drusilla and the Pussycats to attack eighteen thousand basketball fans?”

Angel checked his watch. “We’re out of time.” He looked from Willow to Xander; the witch gave him a nod.

“We’ll research it some more. Hey, with dial-up I should know something within a week.”

Angel shook his head as he walked out the door, almost running into Spike.

“We leavin’ soon or what?”

“How about now?”

“That’ll work.”

“I’ll bring the car around. The rest of you meet me out front with the weapons.”

Faith tapped Angel’s shoulder. “Hey. Where’s Gunn? We could use him.”

“Still out with Lorne, trying to find something to connect Jimmy Royal to his friend’s death.”

“He oughta know better.”

Angel merely shrugged, saying nothing as he walked toward the parking garage.

“By the way…we gotta plan for this thing?”

The vampire didn’t turn around as he spoke. “I figured we’ll come up with something in the car.”

“Right.” Faith said as he closed the door behind him. “Real inspiring.”

“Too bad I’m not going with.” Xander said from behind her. “You and me are pretty good together in cars.”

Faith faced him with a raised eyebrow. “If I remember right, we’re pretty good everywhere.”

“I picked out a sword for you.”

“Cool.” She took it, giving it a few twirls.

“You’re going to be careful, right?”

“Fuck, no.”

“Had to ask.”

They stared at each other for a long moment. Faith shuffled her feet slightly as Spike and Cordelia moved past them, weapons in hand.

“Think I hear Angel’s car.”

“Well, that or a 747 taking off. Dude is in serious need of a new muffler.”

“Hard to find mechanics who work after dark, I bet.”

“Still, the man’s rep is built on mysterious stealth.” The horn honked. “Or at least it used to be.”

Faith smiled slightly. “So…see ya later?”

Xander nodded.

The brunette Slayer turned and quickly trotted out of the room, leaving Xander alone in the lobby. The only sound that could be heard was Willow clicking away in the office.

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

Lilah leaned back in her seat with a smirk.

“Are you girls comfy?”

Dawn glowered at her, but said nothing.

“I’d offer you some champagne, but-“

“Please don’t use the ‘all tied up’ line,” Fred interrupted. “It’s so tired.”

The two prisoners hands were cuffed to the handles above the rear doors, while their feet were shackled together and anchored to a steel bar portruding from the floorboard. Dawn had never ridden in the back of a stretch limo before, but she was willing to bet most of them weren’t custom built for the express purpose of transporting people against their will.

“Actually, I was going to say Dawnie is too young, and I wouldn’t want her to feel left out.”

“Don’t let me stop you.” Dawn said drily. “Maybe you get less boring.”

“Not everyone finds me that way.”

Dawn’s eyes hooded. “If you so much as touched him-“

“You’ll do what?”

There was silence in the car. Lilah smiled. “Don’t be shy. Finish the threat. I’m sure it’s nothing I haven’t heard before.”

“She didn’t hurt him,” Fred said slowly.

Lilah raised an eyebrow. “What, you think I wouldn’t?”

“If you had, you’d have told us already. Plus, Wesley is the one person who doesn’t get nauseous at the sight of you.”

“Ooh. Score one for the Dixie Chick. All right, you got me. Wesley’s just resting at the moment.” She fixed her gaze on Dawn. “I decided to wear him out before coming to visit you two.”

Dawn’s left eye twitched, but she said nothing. Lilah chuckled.

“Hey, don’t blame me. You’re the one who apparently decided to whore him out to get information. And they say I’M the bad guy.” She shook her head. “Worst thing is, what did you get out of all that?”

“More than you might think.” Fred said quietly. “Angel will figure out what you’re planning now.”

Lilah sighed. “I’m planning? God, you really are uninformed. Appreciate the compliment, though. As for Angel…we’ll see how it plays out.”

“You’ve never won yet, as far as I know.” Dawn spat.

“All depends on your definition. Grand scheme of things, I always came out fine. This won’t be an exception.”

“Picked a pretty crappy fighting commander, though, didn’t you? Drusilla couldn’t lead vampires to a blood bank.”

“See, there you go again. When did you ever get the impression I picked anything? I was a liaison, nothing more – say, is this the part of the story where I reveal the nefarious plot to everyone?”

Fred exchanged a glance with Dawn. “You want to wait until more of us are here?”

Lilah glanced out the window. “We’re going to be at my place in a few minutes. There may not be time.”

Dawn rolled her eyes. “So…you’re just following orders, is that it?”

“Generally speaking, yes.”

“You had orders to coordinate a mass turning of hookers - through a big-time gangster - so an insane vampire could lead them on a mass slaughter of basketball fans?”

Fred frowned. “Huh?”

“The Lakers are at home tomorrow.”

Lilah sat back in her seat, pouring herself a flute of Dom Perignon. “Ok, maybe you’re a little better informed than I thought. Oh, well…fine line I suppose.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

The massive car began to slow. Lilah looked longingly into her glass. “Thought we’d catch a couple of red lights. Seems wrong to just down this.”

“Since when did you ever worry about right and wrong?”

Lilah leaned forward slightly in her seat. “Are those cuffs beginning to chafe, Dawn? They hurt Wesley’s wrists after a while. Luckily I’d brought some lubricant along-“

The chains rattled as Dawn strained against them. Lilah grinned, coolly taking a sip.

“I doubt even a Slayer could break those chains, honey. Anyway, what were you going to do…kill me? You don’t have the stomach for that.”

Dawn said nothing. Lilah didn’t respond for a long minute, actually shifting a bit beneath her gaze. Finally she shrugged.

“Guess we’ll find out soon enough. Let’s go upstairs, shall we? There’s so much to see.”

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

Willow leaned back into the office chair, rubbing her eyes.

“Need a backrub?”

She smiled slightly at the sound of Xander’s voice.

“What would Faith say?”

“Hey, we’re talking pregnant lady stress therapy here. Not the ‘start with the back and move on to more interesting places’ rub.”

“That’s what they all say, Harris.”

“So…was that a yes or no?”

She simply nodded, dropping her head to the desk. Xander moved in behind and reached over, gently pressing his thumbs against the back of her neck.

“How’s that?”

“A little more.”

“Ummm…are you sure?”

“I’m pregnant, Xander. That doesn’t mean I’m made of tissue paper.”

Xander acquiesced, digging more firmly into the muscle. Willow emitted a little moaning sound.

“So…what was my Willow looking for that got her so stressed?”

“Anything about the Gem of Amara…we’re missing something there.”

“Seems like we know just about everything. Vamps can’t die while they have it on. Looks good on a man or a woman, blends well with any clothing choices. What else?”

“We know what it does, Xander – a little higher, please? Mmm…thanks. I’m more concerned with Cordy’s question of why.”

“Building an army so the forces of a hundred types of Hell have troops ready-made to slaughter? Assuming we lose, that is?”

“See, that’s just it. Let’s say we DO lose. Why would multiple Hell dimensions working together need a small army of half-breed demons? It doesn’t fit.”

Xander was silent for a moment. “So…you have a theory?”

“Not really. Other than my nagging instinct that the Gem is where the answer lies.”

“Lays.”

“No, goofball, it’s-“

The ringing of the front desk phone interrupted them. As they moved out of the office, Xander shot Willow a look.

“If that’s Angel, it was fast.”

“Too fast, actually.” Willow replied as she reached for the phone. “Um…what am I supposed to say?”

“Was the backrub so good you forgot how to answer a phone? I should consider a career change.”

“No…jerk. This is a business line.”

“Oh…well, just say what Cordy does.”

“Which is? I haven’t been here in a while.”

“Is someone going to get it or not?!” Buffy asked as she bounded down the stairs.

Willow snatched up the phone. “Uh…Angel Investigations. We hope to help the….helpless people.”

Xander raised an eyebrow, drawing the look of death from Willow. He took a slight step back as she listened.

“Oh…hi. No, sorry…I was expecting someone else. There’s a lot going on right now. Are you looking for-”

“Who is it?” Buffy mouthed to Willow. The witch held up a finger, listening intently.

“Right. Ok, that makes sense. Let me fill you in on what we know so far.”

*******15 minutes earlier*******

Angel’s convertible slowly turned the corner into the parking garage across from Lilah’s building. Little conversation had occurred between the four people in the car during the short trip over, for a variety of reasons.

One of which Cordelia voiced when Angel turned off the engine.

“Thank God. I can hear myself think again.”

Angel sighed. “Look, there hasn’t been time-“

“If we were planning to sneak up on ‘em, time to work up an alternative.” Faith piped up from the back seat.

“Ok. I get it. If the world doesn’t end tomorrow, I’ll get the muffler fixed.”

Cordy looked up at Lilah’s penthouse, 22 stories above the earth. “Maybe they didn’t hear it all the way up there.”

“Might not even have her place guarded.” Faith offered. “No way she expected Riley to get us one step ahead.”

“When it comes to Lilah, I’m not taking any chances,” Angel said. Spike and I will make sure the hallway’s clear.” He looked to Faith and Cordy. “After that, it’ll be pretty much up to you two to get inside.”

“Getting inside, I can handle.” Faith said. “How big is this apartment, anyway?”

“Not so big that we won’t find Wes pretty fast,” Cordy decided. “If he’s in there, that is.”

Angel stared at Cordelia. “You’ve been inside Lilah’s apartment?”

“Long time ago. Are we going, or what?”

They exited the car and headed for the elevator. Angel dropped back slightly, taking Spike’s arm.

“Hey.”

“Yeah?”

“You haven’t said a word since we left.”

“Nothin’ to say. What of it?”

“Just wanted to make sure your head was on straight.”

Spike pulled his arm away, and turned to continue walking.

“Worry about yourself, mate.”

Angel glowered. “I am. That’s why I need to make sure you’re focused on what we’re doing instead of moping over some hurt feelings-“

The punch came so fast even Angel couldn’t react in time. He flew for a few feet before landing hard on the concrete floor of the garage. When he looked up, Spike was already on the elevator, glowering at him.

Faith exited the elevator and made her way over to Angel, offering him a hand up. He took it, putting a hand to his mouth as he rose. When he pulled it away, a trickle of blood remained on his fingers.

“Guess that answers that question.”

Faith couldn’t keep a smile from her face. “I love how you boys communicate.”

“Coming?” Cordy called. “I hate putting my hand here, ‘cause of those horror stories about it getting crushed and stuff? You know the ones I mean?”

Faith and Angel at last joined them. The Slayer turned to Cordy.

“That’s nothing. Ever hear about the dude who got his head caught between the doors, and the elevator just kept going up-“

“Ewww! Don’t even finish that! God, where do you get this stuff?!”

Angel held up a finger, and the group fell silent as they began to ascend. Once the elevator reached the top, they filed out slowly, looking cautiously from left to right. Cordy nodded toward Lilah’s front door at the end of the hall.

“Shit,” Spike grumped. “Nobody here.”

Angel glanced at him. “You’ll get a fight soon enough.”

Faith arrived first at Lilah’s door. “Cord, you stay behind me. Got it?”

Cordelia nodded, gripping her axe a little more tightly. She glanced at Angel. He gave her an encouraging nod before stepping back into the shadows with Spike.

“You know how to pick a lock, princess?” Faith asked with a grin.

“I think you’d know more about breaking into places than me.”

“Nope. Never did know the fancy shit. Oh, well…”

She delivered a vicious side kick directly to the left of the knob, sending a good-sized chunk of the door hurtling inward. Reaching in carefully, Faith found the chain lock and bolt and disengaged them.

They entered the room quickly and quietly, though inwardly Cordelia wondered why they should care about stealth at this point. That kick had been loud enough to be heard in Tarzana.

“No guards again. Weird.” Faith said.

“Can we analyze that after we find Wesley?”

Faith nodded her agreement, motioning toward the stairs. “Bedroom’s that way?”

“I would guess. You know, just because I’ve been here doesn’t mean I got the tour.”

Faith rolled her eyes and led the way upstairs and into the master bedroom.

What they saw made them freeze in shock.

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

“I want the prisoners surrounded,” Lilah barked as she got out of the limo. She leaned back in to face them as the next order came. “If either one of them tries to run, kill the other.”

“Yes, ma’am.” The guards replied in a chorus. Lilah nodded slowly, keeping her eyes on Dawn.

“Good. We understand each other.”

There was no resistance as the two women were hustled out of the car. Dawn spoke defiantly.

“You honestly think Buffy isn’t going to come after you for this? If we die, you do.”

“She knows that perfectly well.” Fred said quietly. Dawn looked at her in confusion, while Lilah simply smiled and said nothing.

“Are you saying we’re bait?”

“Why else would we be here?” Fred responded. “She could have just killed us. We were caught trying to burglarize her office.”

Dawn’s voice reduced to a whisper. “Ok, so…why would we be necessary as LIVE bait? Buffy and Angel would come for us one way or the other.”

Fred simply shrugged.

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

Faith and Cordelia just stared in astonishment for a long moment, unable to speak.

Wesley was slumped in Lilah’s bed, clearly unconscious. That part wasn’t good, of course, but not terribly shocking.

The shocking part was his completely nude state, with ropes attaching his hands and feet to each post of Lilah’s canopy bed.

Cordy swallowed hard. “Ummm…he’s naked.”

Faith just looked at her.

“Sorry. I just felt the need to get that out.”

The Slayer approached him carefully, lifting one of Wesley’s eyelids. “He’s out like a light. Drugged, probably…but breathing. Thank God. See if you can find his clothes while I untie him.”

She worked the knots while Cordelia sifted through Lilah’s closet.

“Wes? Wes, can you hear me?”

He stirred slightly as Faith got his legs loose.

“That’s right, hon. Come on, talk to me.”

Wesley’s eyes fluttered open briefly. Faith leaned in close.

“Wes?”

He smiled slightly and began to sing in a slurred voice:

“One night in Bangkok and the tough guys tumble…”

His head slumped back. Faith nodded.

“Yup, definitely drugged. Cordy, find anything?”

“Not yet. Still working my way through…ooh, Donna Karan.”

“CORDY!”

“Calm down already! I’m looking!”

Faith managed to pull a sheet out from underneath Wesley’s supine form to cover him up.

“We’re gonna get you out of here. Cord, we’re out of time! We’ll take him like this!”

Cordelia made her way out of the closet. “Found them.”

“Cool. Toss me his socks. You get the shirt.”

They quickly went to work. Cordelia spoke quietly.

“Wes, we’re here, ok?”

He stirred again.

“Here come old Flat Top he come…grooovin up slowly…”

“Huh?” Cordy was perplexed.

“He’s out of it. Just put the shirt on and be grateful he found a better station.”

Faith finished with his socks, than grabbed the next piece of clothing. She held it out to Cordelia.

“You know him better. Want to handle this part?”

Cordy winced. “Maybe he can go commando just this once?”

Faith grinned. “Fine, I got it.” She slipped on Wesley’s boxers as gently as possible.

“Ok, Fruit of the Looms in place.”

Cordelia finished buttoning his shirt with a frown. “Really? That’s his brand?”

“Stop playing fashion critic and help me with his pants.”

They each fitted a leg into his Dockers, pulling them on with an effort. Cordy quickly pulled her hands away once she got them over his hips. Faith shook her head and sighed as she zipped him up.

“Christ, Cordy. This is nothing you haven’t seen before.”

“What?! Who told you that? We NEVER went that far!”

“I didn’t mean – look, just move so I can carry him, ok? He’s still too out of it to walk on his own.”

Cordy scrambled off the bed while Faith lifted Wesley over her shoulder and exited the bedroom.

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

Lilah breathed a mild sigh of relief as she squeezed her way out of the elevator, leading them down the hallway.

Note to self: send a memo to Human Resources about stricter hygiene requirements for the staff.

Dawn looked around, willing herself to search out escape routes. Her expression froze when her eyes fell upon Riley. He met her eyes, giving a nearly imperceptible nod. She quickly turned back around, feeling a sudden surge of hope.

The distraction caused her to bump into Fred when the group suddenly stopped.

“Sorry.”

Fred half-turned with a smile

“S’okay. Look.”

Dawn peeked around Fred’s shoulder and gasped.

Standing in the hallway were Angel and Spike, weapons in hand.

Lilah shook her head and sighed. “Great. You’re early.”

- End Chapter Thirty -