Buffy closed her eyes and extended her arm across his chest, her hand meeting his and their fingers entwining together, as his other hand was gently caressing her long golden hair.

Angel kissed her brow tenderly. "I love you so much," he told her, as if trying to make a very important point.

"I love you too," Buffy murmured, placing a soft kiss on his chest, "every moment I spend with you.it's priceless. I wouldn't trade it for the world. Never. I feel like I can stay forever.just lying like that, held in your arms. I feel so safe.and so loved.like nothing else matters." She nestled closer to him, and he tightened his embrace.

"I know just what you mean, my love," Angel wrapped both arms around her, pressing her closer against him. "You are my most cherished treasure. I believe in kismet, and I know, beyond the shadow of a doubt, that you are mine. You came to me.like an angel, in a time I believed everything was worthless. You saved my life, and I soon learned that even if I died, my life would still end with you. It would take me over two hundred years to find you, but you would still be my only love. And you gave me the most wonderful gift anyone could ever give me. You gave me yourself, without having to wait two hundred years just to see you again. You gave up everything and stayed here with me, and you will never know how truly grateful I am for it."

Buffy angled her head to gaze at his handsome face. "Don't feel guilty about it, honey," she said softly, "you really shouldn't. In the world I left behind." she lingered, "you are now dead. Living in a world like that, for me.is not an option. I can't live without you. I just can't. It might look like a hard choice to make, but it was an easy one. I know I might sound insensible, because I left friends, and family, but as long as I gain to spend my life with you instead, I think it's the fairest trade I've ever made." She kissed his lips.

"Do you not miss them? Even.sometimes? Do you not regret, or.wish you were there?"

She smiled reassuringly. "Never. I never wish. Yeah, sure, I miss them. I'd be a real idiot if I didn't. I mean, I cared deeply about those people.I still do, of course. But it's enough for me to just look at your face, and to be in your arms, and to feel you.to know that you're real.it's enough to banish any feelings of regret I might ever have. If I stayed.all I had would be dreams. And I can't settle for dreams. Moreover, I don't want to. Not when I have the real thing within my reach. I dreamt for so long, Angel. You were gone out of my life for only a few months, but these few months were more like a lifetime to me and all I could do was dream. I don't wanna dream anymore."

She snuggled on his chest, and he kissed her head lovingly. "You will never have to dream again, beloved. I cannot promise you much, but I can promise you this."

"This is all I want, my love," she whispered, "this is all I ever wanted."

They lay in silence for a while, embraced tightly in each other's arms, merging in the serenity of the green countrified meadow.

"It's so beautiful here, Angel," Buffy said finally, "it's like the time stood still in this place. It's like paradise."

"Well," he smiled, "if I were you, I would start thinking of it as home."

"Yeah.I mean, you grew up here. You've lived here your whole life. I never saw anything like that. Where I come from.it barely exists anymore. And the horses." Buffy glanced at the two stallions eating from the grass, "the only contact I ever had with horses before, was when my dad used to take me to a special riding route. I never saw them like this.in the wild. It's just beautiful." Buffy seemed to become fascinated by everything.

"A special riding route?" Angel questioned. "What is it?"

She laughed. "No, I guess you wouldn't know."

Buffy sat up straight, and Angel did the same. He rested his back against the tree's stem, and Buffy leaned into his chest, as he winded his arms around her waist from behind.

"We." she continued, "we don't.didn't really have horses hanging around like that in the future."

"What do you mean?"

Buffy rotated so she could face Angel. "You know, it's like.if you wanted to ride a horse, so you would go to some place that's particularly meant for that, and where you could rent a horse for a time to ride on. Unless of course, you're rich and could afford your own, but usually even rich people didn't do that. They didn't really need horses that much."

"I do not understand," his face showed he really didn't, "but how can people transfer from place to place without a horse?"

Buffy laughed. "They don't. You see, they don't need horses to move around anymore. There are cars, busses, trains, planes, ships." she peered at his bewildered countenance, "and of course, other things that mentioning their name will tell you absolutely nothing."

"I wish I could see all that once."

Buffy closed her eyes in delight, as she felt his fingers gently brushing through her hair, proficiently waving it into a light braid. "I doubt you'd like it. Honestly, it's a lot less exciting than it sounds. And you are talking to someone who witnessed both and then made a decision. Really, if there are things I miss, development is so not one of them."

Angel kissed her head after finishing with her hair, and snaked his arms around her shoulders, as Buffy took his hands into hers.

"I love it here much more," she said.

Angel pressed her back into his chest, and reposed his head on hers, closing his eyes, enjoying the feel of the brisk summer breeze, and the warm rays of the sun on his face, and the feel of his love, slowly falling into slumber in the safety of his arms.

Part Fifteen 

Buffy knocked softly on the large flaps of the library and peeped in. "Angel?"

Angel broke his attention from the book he'd been reading and gazed up at her, then he rose to his feet.

"Umm.I'm not disturbing you, right?" she inquired.

He put down his book and paced towards her. "You are never disturbing me," he smiled.

"Oh." To his surprise, she looked uncharacteristically grave. "Then.good. Because.there are some people out there, and they said you invited them?"

"What people, love?"

"I don't know, some guys. I didn't see them. Thomas asked me to call you because he had some urgent things to do or something. Anyway, you want to?." she motioned with her hand toward the corridor.

Angel took her hand and followed her lead.

Three people were awaiting for them in the lounge. Two women, and a man. The women's garments appealed to Buffy right away. In proportion to her taste, they were extremely stylish. Her strong fashion sense hadn't let her down, no matter what time she was living in. She had actually become acclimatized rather quickly to the style and mode of those days. She had already grown into loving the fancy way people dressed, and especially the women. And to cap it all, Angel would spoil her to no end, buying her different jewelry nearly daily, ones that were frequently shining and sparkling with sapphires, diamonds, and every other kind of precious stone he could find. Other than the jewelry, Buffy had a new gown made for her every few days; each one's more beautiful than the former one. All he had ever given her was the best, from the very pureness of his heart.

She'd been with Angel for five months now, perhaps even more, and these months were the happiest time she had had in very long. The time she'd spent away from her love had been almost completely forgotten, driven out of her heart and mind as if it were never there, except for maybe sometimes, when she remembered her life 'before' in her dreams, it would come up to surface, but all she had to do then was just hold onto him tighter, and he would wrap his arms around her, in his inimitable loving and protective manner, and she would forget all about it once again, while falling back asleep in her lover's arms. He was there, and he was real. For all she cared, the time she had spent without him could very well be a mere nightmare. As days would be passing by, she'd most likely forget she'd ever lived that life to begin with. No, she would never forget these people. She couldn't, never. But the fact would always remain that that life, with the exception of her time with Angel, had brought her almost nothing but sorrow. Even some of the time with Angel had resolved with pain, and it had always been what hurt the most. These few months, on the other hand, she had known nothing but unadulterated happiness.

The man stood up as Angel entered the room with Buffy on his arm, and bowed politely, quickly approaching her to kiss her hand.

Buffy only smiled; as she always did when someone greeted her like that, which considering the norm, was more than very often. Besides, she was regarded as a very attractive and desired woman. If she weren't already taken and of course, in love, she would have loads of beaus. But it was sacred between the men of that time, to never woo someone who belonged to another. It was a nonexistent concord that if someone broke, he would be forced to face the other man in a duel. Not many wanted to risk dueling her fiance, she thought proudly. But again, above all, it was a code of honor. She belonged to him. And a little voice in her heart wouldn't stop screaming with joy every time this thought crossed her mind. She belonged to him!

Angel recognized the man at once. "Doyle!"

The two men hugged each other as if they were best friends.

"I saw you last time four years ago, I believe. Am I right, Liam?" the man, whose name was Doyle, pointed out. "Did not think the next time I would see you would be for your wedding. A beautiful bride, you have there, old mate, a beauty indeed." He smiled at Buffy, and she repaid him with a smile. "These ladies by my side are madam Louisa Ormond and Giselle De Conte. They are here from France," Doyle introduced the two women.

"Of course," Angel remembered in a sudden realization. Buffy still seemed to be left out. She hadn't the slightest idea of what was going on, except.that this Doyle person looked exceedingly familiar to her. She could have sworn she had seen him before, and what is more, within an atmosphere very much like this one.

"Forgive my rudeness, please," Angel spoke to the women, "I was not expecting you to arrive so soon. I only called for you two weeks ago."

"It is quite alright, sir. We did not expect to be here so soon ourselves," Luisa replied.

"Yet, I am indeed grateful you have. I shall order to prepare rooms for you at once, and after you shall get settled and rest a bit, we can start concentrating on the aim of your arrival." Angel rang a bell and a young, neatly dressed, footman walked into the room.

"You wanted something, sir?" he queried.

"Yes. Please prepare three rooms for our guests, Christopher. They will be staying here for a few days."

Christopher curtsied, "Right away, sir," and left to carry out his duties.

Buffy finally turned to Angel. "Angel?" she whispered in his ear so that only he could hear her. "Who are these people?"

He grinned. "Sweetheart, I hope you remember that the date we have set for our wedding is soon to arrive. We have less than two months to spare, in fact. Mr. Allan Doyle is a very close friend of mine and I have written to him and asked him to come and help me take care of all the financials and other things the wedding ceremony would require. And of course, enact as my best man. Now, madam Ormond and madam De Conte are very famed fashion designers from France, who I personally transported here to work on your wedding gown. I want you to have the most beautiful there is."

"Well," Buffy peered at him awkwardly, a grateful and loving half smile lighting her face, "why didn't you tell me they were coming?"

"I was expecting them to arrive in at least two weeks from now. After all, they were coming from France. Well, except for Doyle, who I have not seen a very long time after he married, and therefore was not certain he would be coming."

"I would never miss your wedding, mate," Doyle cut in, "especially not to a beautiful lass such as your fiancee."

"You did not forget you have a wife of your own, I hope, Doyle," Angel suggested lightheartedly.

"How could I ever?" Doyle smiled. "She would not let me."

"It is very nice to meet you, sir," Buffy beamed, "may I call you Allan?"

"Call me Doyle, everyone does so. And it is entirely my pleasure to meet you too, my dear lady. I would never think this one here would marry, even after all he has written to me about you, I still could not believe. But now that I see you with my own eyes, I would surely agree you are his true happiness, as he says," Buffy beamed as he kissed her hand again, "absolutely my pleasure.Buffy? If I may?"

"Of course. There is no need for any kind of formality between us."

"Indeed, there is none," he agreed.

"Oh, God," she gasped. Everyone's attention turned to her.

"Is something wrong, dear?" Angel asked.

Now she finally remembered. When she had seen this man before.that day she wasn't so stupidly supposed to remember. The day that had not only never happened, but also now never would. She had seen him only briefly before Cordelia had dragged him out of the office. Doyle. She had only known him as Doyle then. It was the name by which he was called. He had been Angel's best friend! *In every lifetime,* Buffy beamed inwardly. He must have been a very good friend now too. *But as long as we're on the subject of souls' transmigrations.* "Could you please describe your wife to me?" she requested. "If it isn't much trouble?"

Doyle nodded, although didn't see her point. "Of course. She is a pretty lass too, you know, very pretty. A slim figure, long brown hair, high cheekbones, large brown eyes."

*Oh, boy.* Buffy thought as he went on and on, describing no other than *Cordelia.*

Somehow, Buffy wasn't that surprised. "Will she.will she be at the wedding too? I would like to meet her sometime. She sounds.familiar."

"Of course she will be. I think you would be quite fond of her," Doyle speculated, "I think you two are very much alike. Her name is Cordelia. An odd name, I have to admit, but she is a very wonderful person once you truly know her."

"Oh, yeah." she smiled. Inside, she was practically DYING to meet THIS Cordelia. *I wonder who else who's supposed to be born in two and a half centuries from now, am I gonna find here.*

After the two French women had excused themselves to their rooms to rest, Buffy, Angel, and Doyle stayed for a very long talk. It was obvious a lot had happened in both Angel's and Doyle's lives they had to catch up. Many things they hadn't included in their many exchanged letters. Buffy found out that after falling for the sweet and chaste Cordelia *Cordelia?!*, Doyle had decided to take her as his wife, despite his father's resistance, because of her being from a lower class, and therefore had been disowned from his father's will. Although Angel and his family had offered their help, Doyle had decided to go away with his new wife, and try his own luck in making money. It had paid off, alright. Now, his family was extremely wealthy, and it'd been only four years. Buffy also learned that Doyle and Cordelia's first son was born several months ago, and was named Nicolas. She couldn't picture Cordelia as a mother, definitely not. But still, the way Doyle talked about her, she sounded almost nothing like the Cordy she remembered. Everything could happen. Even a chaste Cordelia.

Well, Buffy would definitely find out everything soon, because Cordelia was coming tomorrow. She had wanted to first visit her parents, therefore hadn't arrived with her husband, also to allow him some free time alone with his long-time-not-seen friend.

After the two old friends had finished filling each other in on their lives, Doyle went up to his room to unpack and rest, and Buffy and Angel were left alone.

"What are your conclusions concerning Doyle?" Angel asked his fiancee.

She beamed. "Very very good. I like him."

He beamed too. "I must say I am glad, but then again, Doyle has never had trouble charming a woman."

"Don't you dare to worry about that," Buffy leaned forward to gently kiss his smiling lips.

"I was not," he said after she'd pulled off, "he really is my best friend. We have known each other since we were little children."

"And long afterwards," she murmured.

"What do you mean?"

"The 'best friend' thingie? Well, it kinda stands in the future too," she informed, wondering how he'd take it.

He was smiling in amazement. "It is? It is.wonderful. It is rather hard to believe, but."

"But you like the idea of it."

"Absolutely."

"Oh, and.the Cordelia thing?"

"Yes?"

"That's too."

"They were married?"

"Well, I wouldn't say married, but in the future of the future, you could never know how things would turn out eventually. You know what I think?"

"What?"

"I'm here for a reason. I finally know it for sure. I'm here not because of a spell, well, technically, yes, I am, but.I'm here because I'm supposed to be. I think it's like Doyle and Cordelia. Wherever you are, I am. I think that the reason I came back in time, was because I wasn't supposed to be in the future in the first place. I mean, in the future you were gone, so here I am, in a place you aren't."

He smiled and stroked her cheek. "I know just what you mean."

Buffy rose to her feet and Angel did too. Abruptly, she winced, and grabbed her stomach, doubling in pain. She would have fallen if Angel hadn't gathered her quickly and carefully in his arms and seated her back on the sofa.

"This was the LAST time I was wearing this stupid corset," she muttered, breathing deeply, while Angel's arms stabilized her.

"Honey, if it was that tight for you to wear it, why have you been wearing it at all? I cannot say you really need it..."

She shook her head. "That's not it." Buffy inhaled one last deep breath and faced him. She was serious. "It's a pest also on a regular basis, but that's not it."

"What is it, then?" he was earnestly alarmed. "Please, you must tell me what is wrong with you. You have scarred me to death just now. Whatever it is, I am sure you will be alright, but please, tell me. I cannot see you in such pain, mainly not knowing why."

She waved her hand dismissingly. "That was nothing. I'm sure it's just the corset. My belly can't really handle being wringed any longer, I guess. It was just a spasm or something like that. I've been having those lately. You know, along with that I can barely keep my food down and all."

"Buffy, please, what are you trying to say?" By the tone of his voice, it was clear that one more brainteaser would drive him insane.

"I'm not sure."

"Not sure?"

"Well, if we were in my time, I could be sure, but not now. Now, I can only guess."

"Guess what, beloved?"

"I think.no, I'm pretty much sure, that.I'm pregnant."

He let go of her and pulled back. "P.pr.pregnant? You.you mean with.with an actual child? Inside of you? M.my child? Ou.our child?"

"Okay." she hissed, "can you say, NOT the reaction I've been expecting to hear once I told you of this news?" She tried to stand up, but discovered her abdomen still ached and sat back down. "I kinda hoped you'd be A LITTLE happier."

Angel had come to his senses by then. He embraced her tightly, and kissed her. "Darling, this is wonderful! This is the best news anyone could ever give me. Oh, I love you so much!" he hugged her again. "You are the best thing that ever happened to me."

"You're not mad?" she asked carefully as he finally released her from his clasp.

"Mad? Sweetheart, I could never be mad at you, especially not when you have just made me the happiest man on earth. Buffy, I love you so much!"

This time, she hugged him back, tears streaming down her cheeks. "I love you too," she whispered inaudibly. "God, I love you," she clasped him tighter, "I thought you were mad. I thought you didn't want it."

Angel drew away, and peered at her. "Why would I ever not want it? Of course, I want it. I want many children. I want to build a home with the only woman I love," he tenderly cleared her tears with his thumbs.

Buffy smiled. "Me too."

Angel kissed her forehead. He stood and so did Buffy. Supporting her with his strong arms, he slowly led her up the stairs to her bedroom.

After tucking her in, he sat by her side, and took her hand in his own. "Are you feeling better now, love?" he asked.

"Yeah," she smiled, "I guess I just need some rest."

"How long have you been suspecting it?"

"I'd say for about a month."

"Well." he reflected, "it is not that long. I will call for a doctor tomorrow, because I want him to examine you as soon as possible. And I do not want to see you wearing corsets or anything else you might find even slightly uncomfortable. I want you to be careful. Please, love," he almost pleaded her, "I have heard of too many women who died while giving birth or while expecting, I cannot bear the thought of it happening to you. I cannot bear the thought of anything happening to you."

Buffy squeezed his hand. "I'll be okay. It's just a pregnancy. Women get pregnant every day."

The concern on his face hadn't decreased. He looked down. "She is not my real mother, you know," he whispered, holding her hand tighter, "my father's widow is not my mother. She has raised me since I can remember myself, but she did not give birth to me. My real mother died when I was born, and afterwards, my father remarried. And then Ilana and Laura were born," he gazed back at her. "Please promise me I will not lose you. Please, I.I cannot."

Buffy brought his hand that was holding hers to her lips and granted it a tender kiss. "I give you my word, my love," she pledged, "you won't lose me."

He grinned. Relief washing over his gentle features. "Thank you. I will take good care of you, I promise." He kissed her hand. "Would you.would you like anything? Tea, perhaps? It will ease the pain."

"No, it's gone. It was just cramps. It's already over, I'm okay," she smiled, "but, would you stay with me? Not for long, just until I fall asleep. Would you?"

Angel bent forward and tenderly kissed her forehead. "I will stay with you forever." 

Part Sixteen

Angel was marching nervously outside Buffy's bedroom, secretly cursing the doctor for not letting him in, and along with that understanding it's a rule. *A stupid rule!* He wanted to be there! No, he needed to be there! A small part of him couldn't understand what'd made him so agitated. After all, the only thing that was going on in the room was checking whether Buffy was pregnant or not. A few simple tests that were needed to be made, to know for sure. So why was he so anxious?! It's not like she's having the baby NOW.

He abruptly stopped and leaned against the wall. In the past few months, he had discovered so much about himself. Things he never knew were there, and probably would have never found out if it hadn't been for her. She was everything to him. Everything and beyond. She was his life, he knew it indisputably. If anything happened to her.well, what was the point in living without your life? It was most likely what he was so terrified from, what he had always been terrified from. His life, she, they were one.

Angel had a fixation. A fixation he hated, but according to which impregnating would kill her. Why wouldn't it? Was she any different from every other woman who had died due to that? YES! She was different! She was his, his Buffy! But in the eyes of God, was she different? No...

In this point, he wasn't even sure he wanted this child. He didn't want children at all, if their cost was her life. In that specific moment, Angel felt she was the first genuine thing in his life he dubbed as too precious to lose.

And there was the part of him that did want children, that wanted lots of children, with her. A part that told him he was concerned in vain, that it'd be alright. A part he so stupidly didn't want to listen to.

When the door finally opened, Angel started.

"You may enter now," the doctor said, smiling.

Angel hurried past him into the room.

Buffy was sitting on the bed, also smiling. Angel felt his heart melt, seeing her like that. "Is everything alright?" he queried.

"Well, unless I was wrong while examining the lady, she is certainly expecting a child," the physician confirmed, "in fact, if I am not mistaken, she is currently in her second month. I believe it is a congratulations to you both."

"It is," Angel beamed and seated by his fiancee, "but is she alright?"

"Absolutely. I would suggest more rest, of course, healthier food. You must not forget she is eating for the baby as well. Also, I recommend to moderate any superfluous efforts and strains. There might be vomiting, naturally, mainly in the morning, but they are expected to be over in a month. With the exception of that, well.I would say she is a very healthy young woman. I do not forecast any danger at all."

"Thank you." Angel put his arm around Buffy's shoulders. "I will look after her."

"Do that." The doctor gathered his bag and coat and headed towards the door. "If you encounter any complications, inform me of them, but I doubt you will."

"Are you sure you are alright?" Angel turned to Buffy after the doctor had left.

She beamed. "You've just heard a professional answering that question."

"I want to hear you."

"I'm great. Swell. Really. You know, even though you're extremely cute when you're worried about me, but you're still worried for nothing. Honestly."

He cupped her cheek. "I only want you to be alright."

"Listen. I get it that the statistics of women dying in childbirth.these days, are kinda high. You have already mentioned this.about a dozen times, but let me tell you something. Statistics and me NEVER go hand in hand. It's a law of nature. Really." She took his hand and pulled him out of the room. "Come on, I'm dying to meet Cordelia."

"How did you know she was already here?" he asked in wonder.

Buffy smiled. "Are you kidding? I'd recognize that voice everywhere! But I gotta tell you this, the Irish accent doesn't really go with it."

Angel laughed.

Buffy forestalled a gasp of incredulity as she and Angel reached the head of the stairs and received a full view of the drawing room downstairs. Angel stopped to look at her, unmistakably sensing her astonishment.

There she was. Right before her eyes, and yet, if Buffy didn't see the so palpable similitude to her future friend, she would never believe this person was really and truly Cordelia. Her stylishness, and her prominence screamed 'Cordelia', but together with that, this Cordelia had the grace and the gentleness so evident in all of her aspects, Buffy needed to be blind to let it pass. As expected, her exterior was flawless. Her brown hair was neatly gathered up into a knot, adorned with silky ribbons, her dress was a watery lilac, tasteful, and elegant, gracefully exposing her slender womanly shoulders. Her skin was much paler than how Buffy remembered, and it added a gentle feminine touch to her eighteenth-century look. And furthermore, Cordelia was cuddling a baby in her lap, smiling lovingly at him together with her husband. Motherhood and tenderness were radiating from the person who so resembled the former, usually snooty, cheerleader. Yet, it was Cordelia. It definitely was Cordelia.

"Cordelia?" Buffy's voice sounded in the room as she and Angel were approaching the couple.

The brunette stood up, still holding her son, and smiled. "Buffy, if I am not mistaken? It is very nice to finally meet you. Liam made you sound like a dream in his letters. I am looking forward to knowing you better." She held out the infant in her arms. "This is my son, Nicolas."

Buffy offered her arms. "May I?"

Cordelia grinned and passed the child to Buffy. "Of course."

Buffy smiled at the sleeping baby. The idea that in less than a year, she would be holding her own was still something to get used to.

She looked at her lover and he smiled at her, obviously sharing her current thoughts. He adored the way she looked with a baby in her arms. In his eyes, it was perfect.

Buffy granted him an endorsing beam, wordlessly consenting for him to impart their news to their friends.

Angel smiled thankfully at her. He was eagerly awaiting to inform them. He knew they would never judge him, Buffy, or the unborn child, for a pre-marriage pregnancy, they would just be happy for them.

He placed one arm around Buffy's shoulders. "Cordelia, Doyle, we have news for you."

"Well, tell us then," Cordelia implored impatiently.

"Buffy and I are.we are expecting our first child."

"Already?" Doyle exclaimed. "You do not waste time, do you, mate?" He walked over to the couple and bowed to kiss Buffy's hand. "My most sincere congratulations to the mother to be.and what she has so foolishly chosen to marry," he grinned at his friend.

Cordelia hugged them both happily. "I am extremely happy for the two of you! Motherhood will do you wonders, you will see," she told Buffy, "it is the most wonderful thing in the world," she cradled her little son.

Doyle put one arm around his wife. "Well, what are you planning to do next?"

"The first thing we're gonna do is predate the wedding, at least for a month," Buffy said.

Angel looked at her questioningly.

"Honey, I wanna be able to fit into my dress," she explained.

He beamed and kissed her on the cheek. "You will look wonderful any way."

"Maybe, but I don't want to receive loving looks like your mother's from everyone invited once they will see my belly," she smirked.

"I support the lass in her choice, mate," Doyle concurred, "she is right."

"She is, Liam," Cordelia said thoughtfully, "you must marry earlier."

"Well," Angel smiled impishly, "in this case, may I suggest an idea?"

"Listening," Buffy returned him an equivalent grin.

"What is your opinion about Christmas?"

Buffy was winded. "You're serious? You wanna get married on Christmas?"

"Well, it is almost a month earlier than our original date. I see no reason why not. I think it is the perfect day for a celebration. Do you not?"

Buffy hugged him enthusiastically, stunning both Cordelia and Doyle. "I love it!" she cried out. "Angel, it will be great!"

He chortled. "I thought you would agree."

"I love you," she kissed him, stunning their audience again.

When Angel kissed her back, Cordelia only exchanged discomfited glimpses with her husband.

Part Seventeen

Cordelia and Buffy had become very close, and had been spending a lot of time together in the past month. Maybe the future Cordelia and Buffy would have never found anything in common, but theses two had found almost everything in common. Cordelia had turned out to be an uniquely beautiful person, inside and out. Buffy and she had become best friends within days. Cordelia had turned to be a very generous and kind person. In fact, her qualities were the exact ones Buffy had NEVER expected to find in the May-Queen-to-be. Besides that, Cordelia was also a living and breathing reminder to Buffy's other friends. In a point, Buffy had even started to think that if there was a Cordelia, maybe there also were Willow, Xander, Giles. It could happen, couldn't it? Maybe one day she would even meet them. She had wondered many times, if Cordelia was the ultimate converse of her future self, how much would her other friends change? Or maybe they wouldn't at all?

Well, in any case, all Buffy could do about it was to wonder. She could never really know. Not until she faced these people, whoever they now were, face to face. And it wasn't like she was going to go in for an extensive worldwide search after people who did not exist, or weren't yet born. It would truly be ridiculous. Perhaps, it proved she wasn't that eager to find out. If she were meant to meet them, she would, it was only a matter of time. If she weren't.well, so she weren't. Anyway, she had Cordelia. And though Buffy would never believe she'd actually come to think so, she was very happy she had Cordelia. They were each other's best friend. Just as Buffy dug up the unconventional side of Cordelia, the subtle brunette brought to light the hidden grace of a lady in the former Slayer. The two girls became quickly almost inseparable, spending with each other almost every minute they weren't spending with their mates. It was no surprise at all once Buffy had announced Cordelia would be her made of honor. Doyle was repetitively wondering how come these two had become friends so quickly, but Angel knew why. He could never tell Doyle, of course, because his friend would think him to be crazy. Whatever the reason was though, the man was just as happy as Angel that the two women they loved most got along so well.

Buffy was in the end of her third month now. The next day after the pregnancy had been confirmed, Angel brought about ten tailors to make her an entirely new wardrobe for her pregnancy period, all to make sure she was wearing the best and the most comfortable clothes. Her pregnancy could barely show. Not because it hadn't been there, it'd been very much visible without her dresses, but Cordelia had taken charge on Buffy's new wardrobe sewing, and as someone with a past experience in covering up a bulging belly, had given out strict orders how to make the dresses so that the swell would be almost indistinguishable. Cordelia'd known that even for a married pregnant woman, it was indecent to walk around with her pregnancy showed to everyone who wished to see, and she'd had no hesitations whatsoever informing Buffy of it, seeing her friend hadn't been entirely accustomed to the norms of their society, since coming from a foreign country and all. Buffy had never told her of the truth. She'd had no wish at all to drive the poor girl mad, and with Cordelia's tender nature, she most likely would instigate just that.

Except for the increasing amount of dresses, Angel was spoiling Buffy in every way possible, starting with roses in bed, and up to fulfilling her most ridicules desires, such as an ice cream in the middle of the night.an ice cream, she usually did no longer want when he brought it to her, because the hour it took to make the ice cream, was more than enough for a pregnant woman to change her mind.

But Angel didn't mind. He loved doing things for her, as ridicules as they were, and Doyle had promised him they would be getting even more ridicules with time, and he should know. After all, he had gone through the same.

Angel loved the way she would smile before opening her eyes in the morning, perceiving the delicious scent of the breakfast he would bring her to bed, with a different flower each time. She would never get tired of the things he did, just as he would never get tired of doing things for her. He watched over her all the time, being there as soon as he sensed she needed the smallest of things. Buffy used to tease him for that all the time, but he knew she loved it, and he loved it when she loved it. He loved it when she was happy. Angel had promised her he would take good care of her, and he was never even a little close to breaking this promise. He treated her like a queen. She was the love of his life, and who was carrying his child. How could he ever treat her any other way?

Needless to point that their wedding day was the happiest day of their lives. Angel's idea of getting married on Christmas was the best idea ever. From the moment it had started, this day had been one to remember, one neither of them would ever forget.

Buffy woke up into a dream. The moment she opened her eyes, she saw white heavy snow falling outside. It had already formed a mound on the windowsill. Buffy loved the snow. It was magical. Since that Christmas morning, that was now never to happen, it had signified hope for her. Hope, and Christmas miracles. Having the snow as the first thing she saw once she woke up, already told her this day would be nothing but perfect.

Buffy gazed about the room. It was bedecked with red berries, pine, and holly, allover the walls, and everywhere else it could be hanged or put. Various Christmas decorations, in every shape and color, interlaced in the green. Buffy couldn't wait to see the enormous tree downstairs. *It must be splendid,* she smiled to herself.

She, Angel, Doyle and Cordelia had decorated almost the entire house themselves yesterday, and it was the first time she took a good look at their work. Buffy peered at the burning fireplace, adorned with mistletoe and greenery, with a crystal angel standing on top. The sound of the cracking logs she hadn't taken in before, suddenly filled the entire room, and she smiled at it, wrapping her comforter around herself even though she wasn't cold, it gave her a feeling of coziness that was just too perfect. Her gaze wandered back to the window, where she noticed for the first time the beautiful wintry ornamentations on the glass, crafted by the frost outside. It really was just too perfect, and still, something was missing. Something she needed so that this perfection would be truly whole.

"You awake, my love?" Now, nothing was missing.

She turned to the owner of her beloved voice and beamed. She couldn't have a better morning even if she dreamt about it. In fact, if she dreamt about a better morning, it would probably be the dream.

Seeing her wide beam, Angel smiled too, and walked in, closing the door. As expected, he was holding a food tray in his one hand, which's outlines were also decked with holly, and a bouquet of newly picked white roses in another. Though Buffy knew he was growing all sorts of flowers in his glasshouse, she could never understand what he was doing to them that made them grow so magnificent in the middle of the winter.

Angel sat on the edge of her bed, putting the tray on the nightstand, and the flowers in one of the vases, that was miraculously not occupied with others.

Buffy didn't wait anymore to pull him into an impassioned good morning kiss. He cravingly enclosed his arms around his lover, pressing his weight against hers on the bed. After the kiss had ended, he reluctantly pulled off. "Good morning, darling," he greeted with a beam.

"Morning, honey," she smiled.

Angel sat straight on the bed and restlessly clasped her hand. "Can you believe we are marrying in.in a few hours? You will become my wife in a few short hours, can you believe it?"

Buffy completely shared his excitement. "In three hours and twenty five minutes exactly," she chuckled, wrapping her arms around his neck and smiling. "Hard to believe, ha lover? Before you notice, you're stuck with me forever."

He snaked his arms around her waist. "I could not ask for more," he beamed.

"Me neither," she whispered, before meeting his lips in a kiss.

Buffy drew back first. "So," she asked curiously, "what do I have for breakfast today?"

Angel laughed and pulled away, carefully picking up a large beaker, overflowed with steaming hot chocolate, with cream on top. "I made it myself," he said complacently, handing her the mug and awaiting for her estimation.

Buffy sipped at the cream, and he smiled at the white moustache left on her upper lip. "Yummy!" was her ruling.

"You like it?"

"I love it," she kissed him, leaving a white rim on his lip too, "but never as much as I love the one who made it for me."

Angel passed her an outsized chocolate cupcake on a plate. "Now, have this."

"You'll turn me into a cow," she complained playfully.

"But what a beautiful cow would that be." he leaned forward to kiss her.

"Stop it!" she laughed, pushing him away with her free hand. "I'm gonna spill the chocolate!"

"I will make you another one tomorrow." he mumbled under his breath as his mouth passionately kissed a trail down to her breasts.

"Since when have you become such an animal?" she giggled, keeping him back. "Restrain yourself, mister," she commanded in a lightheartedly stern tone, "after the wedding, I will let you do things to me you haven't even dared to dream about, but now.if you want to see me at that altar today, you'll get out right now, send Cordelia here and let me get ready."

He obeyed smiling and stood up. "I am no longer here."

"I still see you!" she teased as he was heading towards the door.

Angel blew her a last kiss before shutting the door after him.

Buffy smiled to herself and sipped from her chocolate again, the warm liquid running down her throat. *God, I love this man!* she thought happily. *I can't wait to be with him forever!*

After ten minutes, Buffy heard a knock on her door.

"Come in!"

Cordelia walked in. She was holding Buffy's wedding dress in her one hand, and her own bride's maid's gown in the other. "How is the bride this morning?" she inquired cheerfully.

Buffy beamed. "Perfect."

"When do you want me to call for your lady's maid to help you dress?"

"Ummm.you know, speaking of which, I don't.technically have one."

Cordelia was astounded. "But you must! How do you dress, then?"

"The old fashioned way," Buffy grinned, "by myself."

"Oh, this is the first time I hear of such a thing. Every lady has a lady's maid. I do not know what I would be doing without someone looking after my wardrobe, my jewelry, helping me dress, make up."

"We are from two very different worlds, Cordelia," Buffy smiled.

"Indeed, we are. Well," she now spoke with excitement, "if you only knew what is happening downstairs! The whole mansion looks splendid! Everyone is so busy decorating every spot in it! There are Christmas adornments, wedding decorations; there is not an empty place in the entire house! It is truly incredible, Buffy! I have not seen anything like it even in my own wedding! Oh, and the variety of foods."

"Cordelia," Buffy said softly, "if you don't stop talking now, I will never be there in time to see it all."

"Oh. You are absolutely right!" Cordelia beamed. "Come, I will turn you into the most beautiful bride the world has ever seen!"

Cordelia had been right. The mansion looked incredible. Walls, banisters, pictures' frames, sculptures, furniture, everything was decked with green holly, red berries, and other streamers. Everything was interweaved with white ribbons, and white flowers, that were spreading a superb aroma all about the hall. A red carpet was rolled down the enormous stairs, with white rose petals allover it. The whole place looked like in a dream.

There were more guests than Buffy was able to count. She remembered some of the faces from previous encounters, but most of them were new to her. She could recognize Cecile, Leonora, and Clara with their husbands, Caitlin with her family, Caroline and Elizabeth, and all the other friends she had made on that night at the ballet and on many nights after, when Angel had taken her out. She was happy to see all of them. She could also spot Laura amid the crowd, but she did not see Angel's mother. It wasn't such a surprise, though. She wasn't even sure she was that sad about her absence. She hadn't exchanged more than a few sentences with that woman anyway, before she had moved out of the house, claiming she would not allow someone like Buffy take away her station and respect. Since her will hadn't been exactly considered, she'd said she would not remain under the same roof with her. After that, Angel had simply made it clear that Buffy would NOT be the one to leave. It was end of story.

But Buffy wasn't going to let his mother, or her absence, ruin their perfect day. She wasn't going to let anything or anyone ruin it. It was, after all, their wedding day. No other was that sacred and special in her eyes. And she knew Angel felt the exact same way.

Buffy was a beautiful bride. She wasn't beautiful, she was simply stunning. Her gorgeous blonde hair was brushed until it practically sparkled, its golden tresses cascading down her upright back. She had all of her hair entwined with festoons of little white flowers, which fell from a delicate tiara, made from the same flowers by Angel himself.

Her dress was of white silk and velvet, white laces and strips falling in graceful bows from her waist. The dress cut deep in both the back and the front, showing off Buffy's refined shoulders and collarbones. A gorgeous sparkling diamonds' necklace Angel had bought her a few days earlier, and matching earrings, added the final touch. In her hands, she was holding a garland of white roses.

Cordelia and Ilana were standing beside her, their dresses were almost like Buffy's, only cerulean, and of course, less fancy. They too were holding white roses. Both smiling adoringly at the bride, expecting for her signal. The same smile crossed the faces of all the people downstairs, who were excitedly waiting for the bride to come down.

Finally, Buffy nodded at the two young women at her sides. It was their cue to begin. Ilana was the first to start walking down the stairway. Cordelia was right behind her. After the two of them had reached the bottom of the stairs, everyone's eyes turned to the bride, as she slowly ambled down as well.

The minute she treaded on the last step, the guests' throng divided into two, revealing another red carpet, which led to where Buffy could clearly see Angel awaiting for her, together with Doyle and a priest. With music playing in the background, and white petals landing on them from every possible direction, Ilana and Cordelia walked down the isle, with Buffy in tow. She had to struggle to inhibit the tears of happiness that formed in her eyes, as they met the smiling eyes of her love, gazing at her only, in such awe and love she had never seen before, even in him. Buffy had never been that happy. When she was standing facing Angel, and he gently took her hands in his, her heart and soul promised her only one thing, as she saw the reflection of them in the eyes she loved so much: This was how her life was going to be from now on. Pure and complete happiness.

Since there was no father of hers to give her away, Buffy was known as an orphan, because otherwise she would not be allowed into proper marriage. She couldn't be, without her father's consent. But still, since a proper ceremony required a father's figure, Thomas had been chosen by both of them to give away the bride.

Buffy couldn't understand much of what the priest was saying, because most of it was spoken in ancient Gaelic, but anyway, neither she, nor Angel were listening to it. Their eyes were fixed on each other. Love and happiness were evident in their orbs.

When it was time to exchange the rings, Doyle came forward, giving Angel the two Claddaghs. While the vicar was saying a prayer, Angel slid the ring on Buffy's wedding ring finger. Then it was her turn, and she did the same to him. They joined hands again, and gazed lovingly at one another. The vicar wrapped a white silky band around their united hands, saying another prayer, and then finally came the words they both were anxiously awaiting to hear.

The world faded for both of them as Angel leaned forward to kiss his bride.

Part Eighteen  

Buffy had been dozing on one of the garden's swings, enjoying the cool breeze on her face. It was so peaceful there, so pastoral.she should have gotten used to it by now, but she just couldn't.

All of a sudden, someone joined her. At first, it was the new yet familiar scent in the air, then someone sat beside her on the swing, then she felt a tender kiss on her exposed nape, then on her neck, and then another one, and one more.until she opened her eyes.

"Somehow, I knew it would draw your attention," he said in a seductive low voice, wrapping his arms around her.

"Don't you have something more important to do?" she asked sardonically, although she was glad to see him.

Angel put his head on her shoulder, puling her closer to him. "Please, do not be angry with me," he appealed.

Buffy sighed, running her fingers abstractly through his brown hair, leaning her own head on his. "I'm not. I'm just.well, I have barely seen you for two days."

"I know," he admitted sadly, "do not think I enjoy this."

She straightened up and he let go of her. "You left early in the morning yesterday, and I didn't see you the whole day. What was so important?" She knew she was sounding childish, but at that point, she didn't care.

"Nothing can ever be more important than devoting my time to you." He gently caressed her bulging belly. "But I own many holdings, love. I need to watch over everything that comes about on each one, I must make sure everything would work properly. These are my duties. All my life I have been prepared for it. I understand it is taking a lot of my time, but I am sorry." The tone of his voice almost bordered pleading for forgiveness.

Buffy clasped his hand. "I'm sorry I'm being a baby. I mean, I understand you have other things."

He shook his head determinately. "You are not."

"I just don't wanna wind up like all those others society wives, whose job is to play pretty and shut up whenever their husbands do something they don't like."

Angel smiled. "My love, you would never be that, not even if you tried," he stroked her cheek gently. "And moreover, I would never want my wife to be so.empty. It is one of the so many reasons why I love you so much. Because you are not a mere empty doll. You are a person, and you never afraid to show that to anyone. I never meant to make you feel neglected."

She grinned. "I know. Could you just.could you make some time maybe?"

Angel kissed her cheek. "I think I would better do something else."

She looked slightly crestfallen. "You would? What?"

"I think.I will employ someone."

She stared at him with misapprehension.

"I will hire someone to do everything that I do. I have the money, why not to use it profitably? Mainly if it allows me to spend more time with my love." he kissed her, smiling.

Buffy beamed with exhilaration. "Really? You'll do that?"

He nodded. "I shall set an interview for tomorrow, as soon as possible. I have been contemplating over it for a spell now. I have spoken to some men who are suitable for implementing these chores. It will not take long until I will be completely free."

Buffy hugged him "I can't wait!"

"Nor can I," he beamed, "I wish to make up for all the times I have not been there for you. I know I should have. Especially now, when you are pregnant, I must be taking care of you."

"Honey, with all the respect, but I sincerely doubt you can take care of me any more than you already do. I don't know why I freaked. I mean, so you took some time to do your things. No biggie," she grinned shyly. "Can I blame it on the hormones?"

He chuckled. "Buffy, you do not need to blame it on anything. I understand. I really do. And I want to make it up to you."

"Well." Buffy pondered, "if you insist like that."

Angel smiled. "I see you have thought of something."

"I certainly have. Remember those picnic plans we made about a week ago, but then it didn't work out?"

"Yes."

"Well, so you think it might work out today?" she inquired optimistically.

Angel's face suddenly became serious.

"What?" Buffy asked him.

"Beloved, are you certain you are strong enough? I must remind you that the reason our former plans have not come to pass was because you were feeling ill."

"I'm okay now. It wasn't a big deal."

"Buffy, you fainted."

"And your point being?"

Angel took a deep breath, concentrating on his wife. "Do you have any idea what was going through my head when I found you lying on the floor in our room? I thought I was going mad. To be exact, I did not know what to think that moment. I was too scared to call for the doctor to come, Ilana had to do it for me. All I could do was to put you in bed and pray to God nothing was wrong with my wife or our child. I truly do not desire to experience it again."

Buffy touched his cheek gently and smiled. "And after I woke up, and the doctor came, what did he say?"

Angel looked down. "That I had no reason to be worried, and that when a woman is pregnant, her body tends to weaken due to the load of the unborn. And that your losing conciseness was highly anticipated," he replied in a voice that said 'see, I tell you exactly what you want to hear, so now it's time for you to turn it against me.' But then his voice was grave again. "Sweetheart, you are already in an excessive hazard. I refuse to add more."

Buffy grinned, but resolvedly crossed her arms on her chest. "And if I say that I'm fine, it means I'm fine. And I want a picnic with my husband. Now," she softened, mischievousness sparkled in her large invigorating eyes, "remember what you told me some time after we found out I was pregnant?"

Angel groaned and raised his eyes to the heavens. He knew it was just a matter of time until she would attack him with his own promises.

"What was that? I don't remember," she prompted slyly.

Angel had no choice but to give in. "I promised there would be nothing I would deny you."

Buffy beamed. "Right! See? I just knew it was something like that!" she exclaimed.

Angel laughed. "You are unbelievable."

"Thank you," she beamed, "so when do we take off?"

He still had some hope she'd change her mind. He too wanted to have a picnic with her, but he was too concerned for the delicate medical condition she was in, to risk her. "Would you please reconsider?"

But she was typically stubborn. "Would I please not?"

"Alright," Angel sighed, standing up, and reached his hand to help Buffy stand too, supporting her with his other hand behind her back, while she held to her belly. "I presume we will be able to leave in a half an hour."

Buffy beamed winningly at her lover.

He could not help but to smile back.

"And you actually wanted us not to go," Buffy pouted, chewing on her sandwich. "Know what?" she asked after she finished it. "I'm gonna be a cow, but for the first time, I'm actually too hungry to care."

Angel stretched out his hand to gently clean some crumbs from the corners of her mouth, smiling. "I will still love you."

"I know," Buffy kissed his fingertips, grabbing another sandwich, "that's why I pig out." She nibbled at it hungrily.

Angel smiled and returned to his own sandwich.

After they had finished with the food, Angel took it on himself to put everything back into the basket, while Buffy was watching him, with love and admiration shining in her eyes. It amazed her every time anew just how much she loved him. It had only been a year ago that Buffy had thought she would never again be fortunate enough to have him in her life. She reminisced with a shudder of the time-consuming cold nights she had spent alone in her bed, longing for his embrace in her dreams. She wrapped her arms around herself, when a memory of that lonesome chill swept over her once again for only a moment. She didn't know what she would do if she was ever forced to go through it again. And that.*What was his name?*.Buffy stopped trying to recall it. Whatever his name was, it didn't matter anymore. But still, how could she ever be with him? How could she call him her lover? Buffy suddenly felt so shallow. It had just hit her again just how deeply she had truly betrayed Angel by dating him. She couldn't believe she had actually done that. Buffy could never get out of her mind the wretchedness and barrenness on his gentlest features once she had informed Angel she had loved that other guy. It had been heartbreaking. She had never forgiven it to herself. She couldn't. When he had requested her to go then, to leave, she felt like a part of her had died. The part of her that was he, it died that moment. That moment, she was sure she'd never see him again.

And now, there he was, right before her eyes. Real. Alive. The sun was shining down on him, and Buffy could even hear his even breathing if she concentrated enough, as he was clearing their dirty dishes. She felt so truly blessed. She felt in heaven. The scene that was now playing before her should have been something she would get used to by now, but no. She hadn't, and she knew she never would. How could she? After all, it's always hard to get used to your dream becoming your reality. Buffy felt warm tears of utter joy gushing down her face. She just couldn't stop them. *Damn hormones!*

Angel had a sixth sense whenever it came to do with her. And that sixth sense would kick into action every time he felt something was wrong. He stopped his doing and faced her. Concern showed up on his formerly relaxed face once he peered at Buffy. "Beloved, what is the matter?" he crept up to her. "Why are you crying?"

Buffy sent her hands to her face to wipe the tears, but he stopped her, instead reaching with his thumbs to gently brush them away.

"Beloved, what is wrong?" he asked again.

Buffy moved closer to him and nestled into his open arms, laying her head against his chest. She felt so safe just by doing that. "I've just remembered something."

"What could it be to upset you so much?" he queried in wonder.

Buffy swallowed. "I remembered of.of then."

Angel knew what she meant. Every time she used the word 'then', she was talking about her past-future life. "Would you want to tell me? I do not want it to be haunting you. I see how it saddens you."

Buffy beamed, and snuggled deeply into his embrace. "It's the past, my love. It doesn't important anymore. Not as the present. I don't wanna dwell in it again."

"But would you not feel better if you told me of it?"

He wanted to find a way to make it easier, and she knew. She also knew he could. "I remembered.I remembered the time when.when you were away. When we were apart. It was just sad memories. And I'm okay now. Just.when you hold me like that, I know it's not true.and I'm okay."

Angel strengthened his hug and kissed the top of her head. "I love you," he whispered.

"I love you," Buffy echoed. Suddenly she quivered.

Angel lightened his grip and moved away to face his wife. Fear of the worst evident on his face, but vanishing at her bright and reassuring beam.

Buffy took his hand and reposed it on her belly. "Do you feel it?"

Angel beamed with awe.

"It's our baby, my love," Buffy notified happily, "see how strong it is?"

"It is amazing," Angel put his other palm on her abdomen, to catch as much of the infant's kicking as he could, "it is the most amazing thing I have ever encountered," he whispered.

"I know," she grinned excitedly.

Angel lay back on the grass and reposed his head on Buffy's lap, his head touching her swollen abdomen, and enclosed his arms around her waist. "I love you, my little baby," he whispered to her belly.

Buffy beamed, running her fingers through her husband's hair.

On to Part Nineteen