Go TeamC/A
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Part 5 Anxious for their night to begin Angel sat in his car, engine running; waiting for the stubborn sun to travel those last few inches behind the horizon.
Twinges of guilt began to tighten around his lifeless heart. I shouldn’t be doing this to her. I’m a selfish, egotistical bastard. No, this is her fault. I wanted her to stay. I wanted us to share our feelings. She’s the one that ran. I wanted us to explore this new level in our relationship. She’s the one pretending that nothing happened between us. I will not feel guilty about this. I know she felt it too and I’ll just have to force her to admit it. If she wasn’t so stubborn, we could be making love right now instead of wasting time playing games. Angel slapped his open palms against the steering wheel, cursing the stubborn sun and the even more stubborn woman. “Damn it Cordy, you can’t hide behind your Queen C armor forever. That armor is coming off.”
Dusk; he punched the gas, squealing tires across the cold cement floor of the underground garage. The top to the convertible purposely left down, the cool evening air bristled across his skin as he traveled the open road.
The convertible slid next to the curb in a perfect parallel line. Leaping over the closed car door Angel took several unneeded breaths to calm his much too eager anticipation.
Three knocks and Angel heard the accelerated heartbeat echo through the wooden door. Opening the door, Cordelia’s sight was transfixed on the frighteningly, familiar attire she had not seen since his Sunnydale debut. Her eyes bulged, extended to the point of almost popping from their frozen sockets. The door slammed shut, the stressed wood vibrating against the vampire’s confused face. Locks and chains clicked and clacked, bolting him out.
“What the hell is this, a delayed reaction?” Cordelia yelled from her barricaded stronghold. And what the hell are you doing here? Did you forget the address? I have a street map of Sunnydale, I’ll slip it under the door; no need to return it when you’re done.”
Whatever the hell was going on with the frantic, young woman barricaded behind the locked door Angel couldn’t begin to fathom. Her heart was racing and fear radiated into the hallway. A street map, Sunnydale; realization dawning Angel scanned the silk, crimson shirt tucked into the skintight leather pants. He chuckled to himself, her reaction unexpected but entertaining just the same. The soul may temper the demon’s behavior but it didn’t impede its skill. He had dressed his part down to the last detail. The clasp of the gold chain around his neck dangled one perfect pearl and one pure, ruby heart. A black onyx centered on a glistening gold band and surrounded by twelve flawless diamonds adorned the index finger of his right hand.
“Cordy, sweetheart; let me in. It’s me baby. You’re perfectly safe.” Angel’s declarations possibly more convincing had his laughter been better stifled.
“Yea right; like Angel has that kind of taste when it comes to his wardrobe.”
“Hey!”
“And sweetheart and baby? That’s not Angel. Angel broods and sulks. Angel is the slayer’s lapdog. He wouldn’t get all flashy with color without permission. You just scurry on over to Sunnydale with your revenge. That’s where the slayer keeps Angel’s leash.”
Lapdog? Leash? Oh you are going to be punished little girl. “Damn it Cordy open the door or I’ll break it down. Think about it Cordy I’ve already been invited in. Do you actually think your flimsy locks could keep Angelus out?”
“Humm…didn’t think about that. Ok then why are you dressed like that? Are you trying to get in touch with your gay side?”
“No! I’m dressed for my part in our case. You know the one I told you about on the phone.”
“Oh the case. You’re playing the part of a gay man in the case?”
“Jesus Christ woman I’m not gay; I’m a pimp.”
“A pimp? Then what am I?”
“Open the damn door and let me in and I’ll tell you.”
“Fine, but Dennis has a stake hovering close by with your name on it so keep your fangs to yourself.”
Cordelia walked to the center of the room motioning for Dennis to open the door. She had never seen Angel’s face red before. She didn’t know a vampire could get red faced no matter how pissed off he might be. Guess I’ll add that little tidbit to my vampire list of do’s and don’ts. “Well don’t just stand there come on in Angel. You’ve already given the neighbors enough of a show for one night.”
“Me? You’re the one acting like a crazy woman. Never mind we’ve wasted enough time as it is.” Angel looked at the woman standing stiff; her arms crossed and dressed just the way she had threatened. Cordelia was wearing faded jeans that were a little more baggy than her usual choice. An old cheerleading sweatshirt, two sizes too big, was draped over a cotton shirt that was buttoned all the way up to the snug collar. “We’re already behind schedule and you need to get changed into something more appropriate…and less comfortable.”
“Well if you had told me we were having leather night I would have known how to dress.”
Angel stalked over to her, arching his brow with the leer of a dirty old man. “You have leather things? Why haven’t I seen them sweetheart?”
“Pfft. There’s a lot you haven’t se…oh… well guess you have…never mind. What is this case about and what’s my role?”
“You’re my whore.” Angel deadpanned, his face as expressionless as a smooth stone.
Cordelia’s body shook, her skin tingling from the barely contained rage. “Excuse me? What did you call me?”
“My whore. We’re going undercover. You’re a hooker and I’m your pimp.”
“A hooker? Why didn’t you just say that? A hooker is not necessarily a whore Angel. I’ve met a lot of girls at the Hollywood parties I go to whenever I get a chance. You know, on the rare occasions that I get to have a life. Anyway, they were very classy and upscale. They run a business and make good money. So I’m a hooker. No problem here. I can do the classy, high rent escort.”
You shouldn‘t be hanging out at parties with hookers. No more Hollywood parties for you young lady. “Not where we’re going sweetheart. There’s no class and no high rent. And you won’t be an escort. In this neighborhood you’re a whore and a cheap one.”
“Then I don’t have anything to wear. I don’t do whore and I certainly don’t do cheap.”
“Where’s the dress you were wearing the night I ran into you at that party? Let me see it; that might work.”
“Grrrrrr!” Her small diaphragm resonated a menacing growl that rivaled his own. Stomping toward her bedroom Cordelia tossed a warning at the exasperating vampire. “Stay here, I’m locking the door. You come near my bedroom and Dennis will impale you with that stake. Tomorrow I’m having your name engraved on it with the extra money you’re paying me for doing this.” The door slammed and the latch clicked behind her.
Angel settled himself on the sofa relishing the short time he could spend musing over the night ahead. His eyes traveled to the door that locked her away from him. He wanted to select what she would wear, instruct her to leave her hair loose with that tousled, just been ravished look. Angel groaned as he felt his erection press against the tight fitting leather. He should never have allowed the image of her dressed for his pleasure to form in his lust-filled mind.
Angel stroked the hard bulge willing it to go away. Tonight was about him playing her and he was already painfully aroused just thinking about her. He looked at the obvious wad behind his zipper; he couldn’t hide it. If he couldn’t will it away, he would have to excuse himself to the privacy of her bathroom and soothe it into submission.
He had to stop touching his crotch; it wouldn’t do for Cordelia to come out of the bedroom to find him fondling himself. Why not? Angel pondered. It‘s her fault, let her take care of it. Come over here baby and see how hard my cock is just thinking about fucking you against that wall. Kiss it and make it better.
Angel’s lurid thoughts were interrupted by the click of the bedroom door. He grabbed a small pillow from the sofa and snuggled it to him covering the persistent bulge.
“Well how do I look?” Cordelia twirled to give Angel a full view. “Will this do?”
Angel looked and then he looked some more. He looked and wondered why she would have those clothes in her closet. The short leather skirt was red, blood red, it oozed blood it was so red. The wide black belt hung loose on her hips weighted by the heavy gold buckle. Her blouse, it wasn’t a blouse it was a piece of thin, purple gauze that she had strapped across her chest, held in place by the three narrow chains that clasped at her otherwise naked back.
He could see the rounded form of her breasts so clearly he could easily imagine how her nipples would stiffen and peak in the cool, night breeze. Well he had wanted that when he intentionally left the top down on the convertible. He had wanted it and now he was getting it along with every low life that walked the back streets of LA.
“Well Angel…what do you think?”
I think I need a bigger pillow. “I need to go to the bathroom.”
Part 6Angel tried not to look at the sexy woman pressed against the passenger door. Her cheeks tinted in a rosy glow by the brisk wind paled against the vibrant red painted on her pouty lips. He chastised himself for being so weak and willed his mind to concentrate on the case. The case was real, he had not made that part up; at least he had that much going for him. Angel forced down the lingering prickles of guilt threatening his plan.
Determined to ignore the exasperating vampire Cordelia kept her focus glued to the street signs flashing by. Where was her vampire, she wondered. This was not the vampire she had met up with in LA and he certainly was not the slayer whipped vampire she knew from Sunnydale. He wasn’t Angelus that was for sure because she was still carrying her full six quarts. Cordelia shook her head at the foolish thought. Of course, he wasn’t Angelus; having sex with her wouldn’t cause him to lose his soul. Only Buffy, the great vampire slayer holds that honor. Some honor. “Pftt.”
“What was that for?” Now Angel was looking at her again and if he looked at her, he would see those tempting jewels standing perked and ready to be captured between his teeth. “Cordy?”
“What?” Cordelia snapped, irritated that Angel was too dense to understand he was being ignored.
“You pffted.”
“Just talking to myself Angel. Guess I said that part out loud.”
“Talk to me instead. We need to discuss the case.”
“We’ve discussed it already Angel. You’re a pimp and I’m a…you know. What else is there to talk about?”
“A lot Cordy. We need to go over the plan. Our moves need to be in sync with one another.”
“Moves? I don’t have any moves. If you have any moves don’t be moving them over here with me.”
Don’t tempt me little girl. Angel twisted the steering wheel under his clinched fists until the object threaten to crack.
His thoughts fixed on the vixen that was driving him to madness, Angel almost missed the sharp turn into the alley. Hitting the brakes and making the turn anyway, the car skidded and swerved stopping inches from the inner brick wall of the alley.
“What is your damage?” Cordelia started to open her door only to find it blocked by the dirty and stained wall just inches from her face. EWWE don’t even want to know what that is. “I can’t even open my door Evil Kinevil.” She huffed as she slapped her hands against the inside panel of the car door.
Cordelia squeaked in surprise when Angel snatched her from her seat and whirled her out of the car before dropping her on the top of the trunk. Her short skirt and lacy thong offering little protection against the cold metal, Cordelia glared at the insane vampire. “Stupid vampire.” She mumbled as she slid off the car, her bare thighs and butt cheeks making a squeaking noise as they slid against the polished trunk lid.
“Are you done? Tantrums out of your system now?” Angel had been allowed about a minute and a half of thinking time since he had exited the car. That was a least a minute longer than he needed to remember he was the master in this game.
“Tantrum! You fat as…”
“We are professionals and it’s time we started acting like it.” Angel stalked over to the furious woman leaning against his car and towered over her petite, scantily clad form. “I can draw on my soulless days to get into character for my role, but I don’t think you have any experience that’s going to help you; so I’ll have to do it.”
Cordelia was certain her friend had gone insane. She couldn’t believe her luck. Have sex with Buffy and you lose your soul but have sex with Cordelia and you lose your mind. “You’ll have to do what? Angel what…”
“Hush Cordy and pay attention.” Angel wrapped his arms around her pulling her snug against him. He let one hand slide down her hip moving the small leather skirt just enough that his fingers could brush across the flesh of one cheek. Cordelia gasped almost choking on the stale, sour air permeating through the alley.
“Are you ready to get into character?” Shocked to realize she was speechless for the first time in her life, Cordelia only responded with a meek nod. Angel’s commanding tone whispered across her face. “Good, let’s get started then. For tonight, I’m a pimp and you’re my whore. Now tell me; who do you belong to?”
“Y…yo…you?”
“Good girl.” The hand still pressed against her back slid down to join the other beneath her skirt. Angel filled his hands with a tight squeeze of her round, fleshy bottom making Cordelia jump at the unexpected groping. “You can’t be nervous baby. You can’t jump when I touch you. If you belong to me then you’re used to me touching you whenever and however I want.” Angel continued to pinch and knead her almost bare ass. He had been denied that pleasure when she ran out on him. He may only have a few minutes but he was determined to get a taste of what she had deprived him. Angel whispered against her neck creating cool, feathery tickles on the exposed flesh. “I think I’ll call you Cherry.” Using his blunt teeth he nibbled on her throat; her resulting moan echoed into his open mouth. “My Cherry whore that exists only for my pleasure.”
Cordelia thought she might faint. As much as she wanted Angel to stop fondling her butt she was afraid she wouldn’t be able to stand if he let her go. Her body had responded to his dirty words and the ick factor that revelation invoked left her with a lot of questions she didn’t want to answer. “That’s enough Angel; I’m ready.” God if I get anymore ready I‘m gonna bone him in the backseat of the car. Get a grip Chase, you’re standing in a filthy, smelly alley and a vampire is groping your ass and you’re enjoying it just a little too much.
Angel muffled the growl that threatened to erupt as the musky aroma of her arousal floated over his tongue. Proud of his performance he released the trembling girl, turning quickly to hide his pleased smirk. Grabbing her hand, he led her out of the alley and down the dimly lit street. Cordelia struggled to keep up with his fast pace. The black, leather boots were they perfect compliment to her trashy attire but the six-inch heels were not intended for running. “Gees Angel slow down. Where’s the fire?” Cordelia stopped, jerking her hand from his.
Angel looked back at Cordelia, regretting for the first time that she was with him. The raw sex appeal framed and displayed by her attire did not hide the innocence and purity of the girl. He didn’t want her exposed to the low life that had mutilated those women. The brain that was in charge when he came up with this idea did not reside in his head. “I’m sorry Cordy. I guess I just want to get this part over with. I don’t like using you as bait.”
“Not like I’m not used to it. I was bait girl all the time in Sunnydale. And besides you haven’t actually told me who or what we’re trying to bait.”
Angel hadn’t liked the idea of using her as bait even then and had argued that point with Buffy on several occasions. I could have lost her in a botched demon hunt and would have never known… Angel shuddered at the thought of not having Cordelia in his life. “Maybe it’d be better if I told you about this guy tomorrow.” He reached for her hand again, this time entwining his fingers with hers. “Come on, let’s get this over with.”
Cordelia fell into step beside Angel; his slower pace more in tune with the walking skills of her slender, spiked heels. “Tell me now Angel. I want to know what I’m up against.”
“OK you aren’t up against anything that could harm you. I’ll take care of any fighting that’s needed. Got that?” Cordelia consented to Angel’s order giving him a quick salute. “For some reason this guy seems to be targeting the hookers on this side of town.”
“So this guy is raping hookers? I don’t get it; you said their services were cheap. He’s still not willing to pay? Gees Angel that description fits you to a tee.”
“What?” Angel was stunned by her accusing words. “Cordy, you can’t really believe I’d do something like that. I would never hurt…”
“No not that silly. I meant the not wanting to pay. You’re so tight with a buck I bet you’ve never paid.”
Relieved, Angel chuckled at her depiction of his frugal spending habits. “I don’t think anything this guy does is because he doesn’t want to pay Cordy. And yes, I have paid for it on many occasions, thank you. When I was human, there were always prostitutes at the tavern. If I couldn’t flirt my way under a skirt, I would pay their price. But you have to remember back then a couple of bucks would get you a good meal, a night’s worth of ale and a talented wench.”
Cordelia scrunched her nose at the unpleasant information. “Ewe Angel, so much more than I ever wanted to know.”
“That was a long time ago Cordy. When I was turned, before I had a soul, I just took what I wanted.” Angel stopped walking and tugged on Cordelia’s hand pulling her closer to him. “But now I only want it if it’s given freely.” Angel pushed the wind blown hair from her face. “Cordy, I want…”
“Let’s get this over with Angel. All this talk about rapists and prostitutes and the ewe in general is really freaking me out.” Disappointed with her interruption, Angel relented and they continued their journey in silence. He wasn’t actually sure what he wanted to say to her anyway but knew a more romantic location might be more appropriate for that particular conversation. Besides, he didn’t blame Cordy for not wanting to be there. He didn’t want her to be touched by the evils that existed on those streets either.
Cordelia may be nervous about being on the bad side of town but that was nothing compared to how scared she was to hear what Angel was about to tell her. What could he say? Would he actually tell her that he was in love with Buffy but since he couldn’t be with her maybe the two of them could fool around? Cordelia didn’t want to believe Angel would do that and knew she couldn’t bear his confession if it was true.
Spotting a corner with little activity, Angel steered Cordelia to the sidewalk. “Here, this is a good place; not many people around. Stay close to me Cordy, if anyone walks up stay behind me. It’s not likely the men that hang out down here are used to seeing a woman as beautiful as you and they’ll try to get a free grab if they can.”
“Well I must be a lucky girl. Look at me, Cordelia Chase, the prettiest slut in the bunch. Angel thinks I’m beautiful? Don’t think about that right now. He’s just looking at the wrapping anyway. Gees Angel you don’t really think anyone will try to grope me do you? I don’t want to be groped.” Looking up at Angel, Cordelia arched an accusing brow. “No more than I’ve already been tonight, that is.”
“Yea, ah…sorry.”
“Hey man, where’d you get that pretty little thing? How much?”
Angel stepped toward the staggering man, blocking Cordelia from his approach. He reeked of cheap liquor and any smell of soap had evaporated long ago. Angel was sure this man had nothing to do with the murdered women. He doubted this man stayed sober enough to adequately use a prostitute’s service. “Doesn’t matter, you can’t afford it so keep walking.”
“Hey friend, I’ve got a few bills. How much?”
“I’m not your friend and you can’t afford to even look. I’ll ask nice one more time, move on while your kneecaps are still attached.”
“Well that was disgusting, topped with a big ewe. Angel…”
“Cordy wait.” Angel took hold of Cordelia’s arm to quiet her talking as he raised his head and sniffed the surrounding air.
“Do you hear something?” Cordelia whispered, stepping closer to Angel’s large, protective form.
“More like smell something.” Angel answered slipping his arm protectively around her shoulders.
“Well so do I Angel. You don’t need super vamp smelling to do that down here.”
“Cordy be quiet.” Angel hissed trying to concentrate on the direction of the scent he had picked up. “It’s familiar.” Too familiar, he silently added, keeping that thought to himself. “But I can’t get a lock on it. It’s as if the smell is coming from every direction at once. Come on we’re going back to the car.”
“But Angel…”
“Sshhh, I need to concentrate.” Angel was already identifying the familiar scent from the street corner and cursed himself for being foolish enough to expose Cordelia to that kind of evil. He needed to get her to the car where she would be safe while he confirmed his suspensions.
Entering the passenger side, Angel motioned for Cordelia to get behind the wheel. “Take the keys. I want you to stay in the car no matter what happens; keep the doors locked and the windows up.” Angel raised the convertible’s top locking it securely into place. “Keep the engine running and if anyone approaches the car I want you to leave.”
“But Angel, what about…”
“No buts Cordy. You see anyone in this alley you drive away.”
“Angel, I was going to ask why I couldn’t just stay with you.”
“Because Cordy if I’m right this guy is too dangerous. I don’t want him near you.”
“I don’t want to be left here by myself.” Angel could feel the fear radiating from Cordelia’s trembling form.
“Cordy, listen to me, we need to help Kate catch this guy. I don’t think what the police are looking for is human. If he’s not they won’t be able to stop him. I can’t zero in on the demon standing so close to you. I need to put some distance between us and see if I can sense the direction this demon is coming from.”
“Distance…OK…why?”
Angel ran a hand through his hair in frustration. He needed to give her an honest answer but didn’t have time to answer the inevitable questions that would follow. “Because Cordy, my senses are overloaded with you…and me…us together.”
“Oooh us. Angel…I took a bath. Didn’t you?”
Doesn’t matter, your sweat…and other…body fluids seeped into my skin and when I used my mouth…my tongue on you, it marked you with my scent. That’s not going to go away anytime soon and it overrides anything else I try to scent. Cordy I need to…”
“Angel go, it’s ok. Go and sniff up a demon so we can go home. I’m fine Angel and you’re right we need to stop this guy before he hurts anyone else.”
Resisting the urge to taste her luscious lips, Angel stepped out of the car. Heading to the opening of the alley, he silently made his way down the quiet street.
Cordelia watched Angel move farther and farther away, wishing they had never heard about this case. His explanation for needing to distance himself from her stubbornly echoed in her head. “Well Chase, you not only gave it up to a man that doesn’t love you; you got yourself scent marked. And you don’t even know what that means. But apparently, it has no respect for good soap. Can’t wait to jot down that proud, little moment in the ole diary. Dear Diary, today I was scent marked. I’m such a lucky girl.”
Angel circled, inhaling the air from every direction. Picking up the trail, he crossed the street and headed toward an old, boarded up building. Stepping inside Angel was confident he had tracked his prey and if Darcy Bane was within the confines of the building Cordelia should be safe in the alley for now. Following the painfully familiar scent from his past, Angel made his way down the dark, narrow stairs.
“Angelus, how good to see you old friend. How long has it been? More than a century I fear.”
“A little over a century and a half.” Angel looked at the row of hearts strung on the chain that stretched across the length of the room. Six hearts from six victims. “What brings you to LA Darcy? Trying to hone an old skill?”
“Ah my collection. Quite lovely isn’t it? Just looking for a little entertainment my friend. Perhaps Angelus I shall be fortunate enough to find a prize as beautiful as the one you left hidden in the alley. You always did have excellent taste when it came to pleasures of the flesh.”
Not knowing how long the vampire may have watched him and Cordelia in the alley, Angel thought it best not to deny her importance to him. Even Darcy Bane was not likely to challenge a claim by Angelus. “If you know that the woman belongs to me then you know it would be unwise to touch her. We traveled together long enough Darcy for you to know I don’t share my toys.”
“So tell me Angelus what does Darla think of your new play thing? And human no less.”
“What can I say Darcy, I got tired of having something cold and dead beneath me. And as for Darla, she doesn’t say much of anything these days.”***
“Twenty minutes. That stupid vampire has been gone for twenty minutes. Somebody’s coming. Damn I hope it’s Angel. It better be Angel or I’ll stake his undead ass. Please be Angel. I didn’t know Angel carried a flashlight. Where’d he keep a flashlight? He can barley get his keys into the pocket of those leather pants. God can this night get any worse?"
That would be a yes. Cordelia knew she was breaking the rule but felt she had to roll the window down enough to greet her unexpected visitor. “Good evening officer. What brings you here at this late hour?”
“Please step out of the car miss.”
“Step out of the car? You have got to be kidding me.”
“Please step out of the car miss if you don’t want resisting arrest added to the charges.”
“Resisting arrest? Added to the…officer there has been a terrible mistake. It’s actually quite funny, ha ha, yes well, let me explain. You think I‘m a prostitute. I am certainly not a prostitute. I work for a detective agency. We’re undercover. Actually we’re helping Detective Lockley with a case.”
“I need to see some ID miss.”
“Well that would be in my purse, which would be in my apartment.”
“So you have no ID on you miss?”
“Do you see a place for a pocket, Sherlock?”
The officer did not seem to be enjoying her unique sense of humor so Cordelia decided to follow Angel’s advice, even if she was a little late getting around to it. She punched the gas and headed for the alley opening. The plan would have been perfect had the police car not pulled up and blocked her escape. The siren shrilled through the dark alley as the flashing lights flickered across her flabbergasted expression. "I’m gonna kill that stupid vampire."
Part 7Angel raced toward the alley where he had left Cordelia, cursing himself for his foolishness in believing she would be safe there. Cursing himself for the lustful desire and bruised pride that had compelled him to bring her here in the first place. He had felt her fear, her defiant anger wash over him. Losing all thought of eliminating the cold-blooded killer that stood before him, Angel rushed from the building. Cordelia; his only purpose to protect her.
Angel stood frozen, his frantic gaze locked on the empty car. He scented the alley, not demon; but here the fact that her abductors were human offered little solace. Scenting his way back to the street the trail abruptly ended in a mingled blend of fear, anger and male dominance. Whoever had taken his woman had not left on foot.
His woman, the words floated through his fear numbed brain. Cordelia Chase was his, to continue any mental debate concerning that fact was a waste of precious time. Time he would use to find the human animals that had taken her and make them regret their mistake of touching his property.
His options limited Angel began retracing his steps to the old, abandoned building. The first murder had occurred three weeks ago. Angel was certain that was more than enough time for Bane to be aware of every creature, human and demon that inhabited this seedy place. Angel would ask his old acquaintance for assistance. If he didn’t readily comply, Angelus would convince him to rethink his decision.
Angel focused on his quest, desperate to squash any emotions that would weaken his concentration. The vampire jumped, just barely stifling the squeal that threatened to erupt, as the phone clipped to his belt vibrated against his backside. “What?” He barked into the annoying interruption.
“Angel, it’s Kate. …Lockley?”
“Kate, I don’t have time right now…”
“Damn it Angel you’re gonna want to hear this. Your assistant, she’s on her way here.”
“Here? Where?” Angel leaned against the building, relief settling over him as the distant voice continued to explain.
“The station, I’m calling from the precinct. Seems she was arrested on suspicion of prostitution. She kept insisting that she was working undercover for me. They’d have my head if my superiors thought I had involved civilians in a case. I did tell them that I used the agency she worked for on occasion and convinced them to bring her here. I knew you wouldn’t want her jailed at the precinct in that neighborhood.”
“Thanks Kate, I owe you one. You have no idea how worried I’ve been.”
“Actually Angel it was easy to convince the uniforms to bring her here. They were more than willing to hand her over. Seems she was causing quite a ruckus. Joe even threatened to put a muzzle on her if she didn’t shut up. The last thing I heard before they broke contact was her threatening Joe that he’d pull back bloody stumps if he tried.”
“That’s my girl.” Angel chuckled into the phone, his tense muscles still refusing to relax. “OK I’m on my way. And Kate…thanks.”
The consuming need to feel his woman safe in his arms blinded Angel to the danger lurking in the shadows. Darcy Bane, schooled in the art of the hunt by Angelus, listened to the desperate ramblings of his once evil cohort. “Ah what fun we shall have old friend. Will you remember how the game is played?”***
Her mind and body engulfed by the blinding pain and flashing scenes, Cordelia clung to the iron bars for support. “What the hell was that?” She gasped wiping the drool from her chin as she tried to catch her breath and steady her trembling limbs.
Cordelia had been pacing the small confined space she was sharing with a dozen other ladies of the evening when she had been assaulted by the first searing invasion. Unable to ignore the gaping stares of the other occupants and in no mood to be gawked at like a monkey in a cage, Cordelia lashed out at her temporary roommates. “Rude much? Gees it’s not like detox or withdrawal jitters is a new concept to anyone here.”***
“Kate where is she? Why don’t I see her?” Angel bellowed as he charged into the station looking in every direction for his missing girl.
“Relax Angel and keep your voice down. This is not a place you want to come charging into acting like a crazy person. She’s downstairs in a holding cell while the paperwork is being processed.”
“Holding cell? Paperwork? She didn’t do anything Kate; let her go.” Angel’s request coming off as more of a demand irritated the off duty detective.
“Back off Angel. I’m doing all I can here. She’s not going to be charged with anything, but the paperwork still has to be processed. If I don’t do this by the book, it will only arouse suspicion. I don’t think you want anyone asking for your license, driver’s or PI’s; do you?”
“No, but…”
“Then calm down before someone thinks they need to restrain you.”
“Fine, I’ll calm down but I’m not waiting much longer. I want her released. I need to see her Kate.”***
“Cordy!”
“Angel?” Anger and the possible vision momentarily forgotten Cordelia rushed to the front of the cell.
“Cordy, are you alright? Did they hurt you?” Angel reached through the bars cupping Cordelia’s face. Leaning closer to the bars that separated them, Angel planted several sweet and desperate kisses over her face. “I was so worried.”
“Angel I was so scared. Where were you?” The sound of her frightened and small voice clinched around his heavy, silent heart.
“I know baby. Me too, me too.” Angel whispered and cooed as he relished the relief slowing seeping into him. Allowed to finally smell and taste her unique flavors the demon was assured that his precious girl was safe and for the moment content with the small samples the iron barrier would permit.
Kate Lockley watched the tender scene, not quite sure, what exactly she was witnessing. She had been around the couple on several occasions and other than his protectiveness over the young woman, Kate had not picked up on any underlying feelings. Well guess that answers the million-dollar question. Not available. Damn.
“OK Angel if you can pry yourself off the bars we’ll let Miss Chase out of the cell.” Kate was more than ready to stop the heated display that had the eyes of every occupant, both employed and incarcerated, glued to the reunited couple.
“Huh?”
Cordelia pushed against Angel’s hard chest. “Move Angel so I can get out of this dungeon.”
The unlocking clink of the heavy cell door sounded like music to Cordelia’s ears. Cordelia Chase arrested for prostitution. Her brain sizzled with embarrassment at the thought of her so-called high school friends enjoying that little tidbit.
Cordelia only needed a few seconds to revel in her freedom before she was ready to let the anger take over again. “Where the hell were you? And what took you so long?”
“What? Oh I was with Kate.” In a moment of stupidity, Angel thought that answer sufficiently explained the time consuming paperwork that was required for her release.
“With Kate!” Cordelia could only assume she looked like one of those cartoon characters with steam gushing from their ears just before their head exploded. She didn’t care about her appearance at the moment. She cared that she had been cuffed like a common criminal and caged like a rabid animal while Angel was with the blonde super cop doing God knows what. The pointy toe of her scuffed and scratched boot made contact with the shin of Angel’s unsuspecting leg.
Angel yelped as he hopped away from the unexpected and painful assault. “What was that for?”
“What was that for? With Kate? You were with Kate? While I was being arrested for prostitution, while I was locked away in this dungeon full of stink and stank, you were with Kate and you ask me what was that for? I ought to kick your ass.” Her hands firmly fisted against her hips Cordelia huffed at the slack-jawed vampire. “Well what do you have to say for yourself dumb ass?”
“You got that little hellcat all riled up buddy and you fixin’ to get us scorched.” Angel’s head jerked around hearing the tawdry remark and snickering laughter coming from the police officers that were huddled together getting an eyeful of the scantily clad vixen and her tirade. His sight swinging back to Cordelia, Angel ripped off his coat and covered his possession from their unwelcome view.
Before Cordelia could do more than open her mouth to start on him again, Angel flung her over his shoulder and stomped toward the foul-mouthed man. “Just so there’s no misunderstanding…” Angel leaned down growling into the man’s nervous face; smelling the sweaty fear coating his skin. “…This hellcat is mine and I’m the only one that burns in her fire.”
“Angel stop threatening the cop; believe me when I say they don’t like that.” Cordelia wiggled and kicked, feeling like a sack draped across the vampire’s shoulder. “And put me down you idiot.”
Angel turned his fleeting attention to the detective, offered a quick nod “Kate” and continued in a swift stride toward the exit.
“Angel you are not carrying me out of here thrown over your shoulder like a freakin’ sack of potatoes. Put me down before I stake your undead ass.”
WACK. The sting of his open palm slapped against her bottom was cushioned by his leather coat. “Cordy be still.”
“You did not just sla…”
“And stop talking. You talk too much. You know that? Never mind, we’ll discuss it when we get home.”
“Arrrgg.”
Part 8Except for her short lived career as a prostitute and even shorter stint in prison, Cordelia Chase was certain this was the most embarrassing and humiliating moment of her life. She was being hauled down the sidewalk like a hunter’s prized kill. “Angel, if you don’t put me down right now, I’m gonna kick your undead ass.”
“Cordy, I told you to be still. We’re almost at the car. It’s parked just across the street.”
“Exactly Angel. Across the street. People are staring at us and your caveman antics.”
“They’re staring because you keep wiggling and yapping.”
“Yapping? I do not…” Angel cut off the acidic ranting, dropping her into the car with a hard thump. “…Yap!” Cordelia finished as she bounced in her seat. His broad form instantly disappearing from her sight, Cordelia whirled around just as Angel was starting the engine. “Guess I should be grateful you didn’t drag me down the sidewalk by my hair.”
The animalistic scene of dragging the captured beauty to his bed flooded Angel’s mind. His muscles tensed as he felt the familiar tightening in his leather pants. “Angel, what are you waiting for? Let’s go.” Lost in the erotic fantasy, Cordelia’s sniped command failed to penetrate Angel’s thoughts. Closing his eyes, he watched their naked bodies writhing in need and hunger. He would ravish her with his mouth, taste every inch of skin before he buried himself in her heat.
Cordelia studied the seemingly entranced vampire sitting beside her. Her eyes drifted down to the obvious heavy bulge behind the overstressed zipper. “Gees Angel, do you need a minute? I can just stand by the curb till you’re finished.” Nothing. It was if though he was oblivious to her presence. Stupid, inconsiderate… “ANGEL!!”
She screamed his name as she came. But it sounded wrong, it sounded... angry. Something wasn’t right. Harsh realization dawning, Angel moaned as his forehead smacked against the steering wheel. “Cordy, please stop talking.” Angel’s plea barely a whisper as he recovered from the abruptly shattered fantasy.
“I want to go home Angel.” The angry voice again invaded his hazy mind stealing the last few remnants of his salacious dream.
“And we’re going home. Just don’t talk. Please!” Taking one last look at the reddish haze of the predawn sky, Angel hoped the flimsy car roof would be sufficient protection against the threatening sunrise. “Leave your window up.” Angel snapped in a tone mixed with worry and frustration. The squalling tires echoed into the otherwise quiet street.
“Why are you driving so fast? Got another corner you want me to stand on?”
“The sun will be up in a few minutes. If it’s all right with you, I’d rather not be a pile of dust on the off ramp. And no you won’t be standing on any more corners so you can throw that outfit away. Why do you have clothes like that anyway?”
“What difference does it make where I got these clothes? Arrg!” Determined to ignore the irritating vampire, Cordelia jerked her head away with an agitated huff. Deciding she would talk but not look at Angel, she locked her eyes on the uninteresting view through the closed window. “Did you at least catch that guy last night? Make the streets safe once again for all the hookers in Whoresville?”
“Ah no. I did find him but I got distracted before I could stake him.”
Whipping her head around, Cordelia stared in shock at Angel’s admission. “Distracted? Did you get distracted by the blond super cop and forget to take out the bad guy first?”
“Kate? No that wasn’t it. Look I’ll explain once we get to your place.”
He must be realizing he can get groiny all he wants as long as he doesn’t care about the one he’s boning. Well this will be fun. We’ll have all kinds of floozies traipsing through the office. And you were the first one Chase. Shit…my life sucks.“Whatever. What’s gotten into you anyway? You’re acting all…not Angel.”
“Can we just wait and discuss it after we get inside?”
“You’re saving a lot of discussion for later Angel. Are you planning to spend the day at my place discussing all the answers you seem to be avoiding?”
“Would that be so bad?” Angel demanded as he smacked his hand hard against the steering wheel. “Me spending the day at your place, I mean.” His tone laced with a touch of menace, Cordelia jump at the unexpected reaction.
“Whatever Angel. And calm down. You may not be Angelus, but you‘re acting all Angelusy.” And I know why big guy. I was the first floozy after all. If it wasn’t for me, you wouldn’t even know you can boink your way across the globe. Way to go Chase.
“You are an idiot. Look at what you put her through tonight. All because you didn’t get the reaction you expected. Stupid, stupid, stupid.“Grrrrr.” Angel’s growl vibrated in the confined space of the car.
“Don’t you growl at me. I haven’t done anything wrong. I’m the victim here Angel.”
“I wasn’t growling at you and I know none of this is your fault. I’m just upset with myself for putting you in danger tonight. I shouldn’t have done that.”
“Well duh!”
Why would this beautiful woman want to spend the day with you? You have acted like an oversexed adolescent ever since you made love to her. Ok, just calm down. You can fix this. Just admit you made a mistake. Be a man and tell her how you feel. Cordy can be understanding. Cordy, I was blown away when we made love and couldn’t accept that you didn’t feel the same way so I concocted a scheme that would force you to be intimate with me. All I’ve thought about for the last forty-eight hours is burying myself in your tight, juicy heat until the end of time. Doesn’t that make you feel special? No? Well I’m sure the engraver has that stake ready.
“Stop staring at me Angel, you’re freaking me out!”
“I’m not staring at you!” Damn it woman, I’m tired of playing games with you. Maybe I shouldn’t have been touching you like that in that alley but I could smell your arousal. I know you wanted me. And you miss ‘I’ve got to be in control’ are jealous of Kate. You are jealous and you want me. And you’re running scared. If I can get inside before the sun turns me into a pile of dust we are going to talk, really talk and then we’re making love damn it.
Tenants who had returned home hours earlier had taken almost all of the spaces available in front of the apartment building. Angel swerved the car along side the curb, barely fitting into the small, cramped space. Cordelia jumped from the lunging car, slamming the door behind her. “Cutting it pretty close with the sunrise, aren’t you Angel? Your nighttime escapades are gonna get you a bad sunburn if you’re not careful.”
“Cor…dy!” Angel growled as he caught up with her annoying, clickity-clack steps. Grabbing her arm, he hastened her pace, almost dragging her along side his wide stepped strides.
“Damn it Angel, I thought I explained already that these boots can’t do a marathon run.”
“I can always carry you.”
“Bite me.”
Plan to sweetheart.