A Third Slayer

Author: Aislynn

Disclaimer: It’s not mine all of it belongs to Joss, and Mutant Enemy. I just fell in love with Buffy from the very first episode,
Angel after that.

Summary: AU from the end of Season 3 of Buffy, not a Spuffy like my other stories the two series will be weaved together sending the seasons AU from there. I hope you like where this story is going.

Rating: NC-17

End of Chapter 8

Lindsey sighed not only did he have to deal with this he had to work at repairing things between Synn and him. Unless he could spin this the right way, then there was no hope of her working for the firm in the future. Lindsey left as they took Lilah to task for her actions.

Lindsey sat down and went to work. At least he knew she was alive, that was the only reason he hadn’t killed Lilah himself. Even as the thoughts went through his mind he could hardly believe them himself, damn the girl had gotten to him.

Chapter 9: Trust

Angel glanced toward the girl sleeping on his couch, for now it was fine. Long term she was going to have to find another place to stay. While he may have taken her in for Wesley’s sake and though he told him that she deserved a second change, he still didn’t trust the girl.

Walking to the computer he pulled up the image they had gotten of her friends or rather families murderer. The man looked familiar but Angel couldn’t place him. The murder had been graphic to say the least rather along the lines of Angelus he admitted to himself.

Synn had watched the entire thing, not moving once simply watching what happened. When it was over she caught the image of the killer and printed out the picture. That ability to detach so completely was what was bothering him. There hadn’t been a flicker of emotion on her face.

As she watched her loved ones being slain nothing had passed across her expression. That ability to shut off all emotion made him wonder about what she had done in the past. They had an idea but it wasn’t the same as knowing. Hell everyone thought they knew what he or Angelus had done in the past, but the reality of it was a whole different matter.

“She wouldn’t have wanted me to see that, but I had to watch it.” Synn gaze met his and still nothing. “So when I kill him I know exactly what I am killing him for.”

Angel hadn’t replied as she left the room. It had been so matter of fact so against what he was doing what he was trying to do. There had been no mention of the police she was simply going to take matters into her own hands.

Wesley had removed the disk and walked over to his desk and put it away somewhere. Their gazes met as Wesley left the room following in his Slayer’s wake.

Angel finally climbed into bed tired but not ready to sleep. Picking up a book he scanned the pages. Finally he set the book aside hut off the lights and went to sleep. In his dreams he saw the murder again only this time it was Angelus who committed the crimes relishing every moment.

Angel sat up in his bed gasping for breath something he didn’t need but often found himself doing. Throwing the covers off he walked out into his place and stopped as Synn glanced up from where she was eating eggs, bacon, and toast.

“You didn’t have very much in the way of food so I went out and got a few things I hope you don’t mind.” Synn glanced away from the vampire who was wearing only a pair of pajama pants that had a drawstring waist. Sometime during the night they had come loose so they rode low on his hips exposing more abs than she cared to see. Nice body she had to admit, not bad at all.

“My goodness put some clothes on.” Cordelia came into the room shaking her head though she took a good look, as well.

“This is my place you know.” Angel replied as he backed up the way he came and went back into his room.

Cordy smiled enjoying the view he had provided shirtless and wow was the boy built no wonder Buffy had been head over heels.

“So where were we.” Cordy sighed pouring them both a cup of coffee.

“I don’t drink coffee.” Synn informed Cordy with a sigh.

“You don’t. I thought all your type was hopped up on coffee among other things.” Cordy sighed “Leave it Angel will drink it with his morning cup of blood. I know gross but hey he’s a vampire.”

“So we either need to find you a place or we will need to get you a bed you can’t sleep on that icky thing for more than a few nights.” Cordy motioned toward the couch.

Angel came back into the room catching the end of their conversation, this time the only thing bare were his feet. “There is nothing wrong with my couch Cordelia.”

Cordy rolled her eyes. “Except that it looks like you picked it up off the side of the street.”

“It cost over a thousand dollars thank you very much.” Angel prepared himself a cup of blood and stuck it in the microwave.

“Well I have to say that was nine hundred ninety nine dollars to much for that thing.” Cordy took a bite of her toast. “So I can start looking in the paper what’s you cost range?” Cordy asked softly.

Synn shrugged not sure how to handle the woman before her as she jumped from subject to subject. Since the moment they met up this morning she had been actually nice and genuinely interested.

They hadn’t been very close when she was training with Wesley before. Now for some reason the woman seemed to think they were going to be best-friends.

“We should get you an appointment to get your hair cut.” Cordy smiled. “We could go together get our hair done do a little shopping, maybe even get a facial.”

Angel pulled his mug from the microwave. “She doesn’t need a haircut, and she doesn’t want a facial.” Angel sat at the table reaching for the paper giving Cordy that look. The look said a thousand words the theme she was being insensitive.

“And how would you know, I wasn’t aware that reading someone’s mind was one of your vampire gifts.” Cordy remarked sarcastically rolling her eyes.

“You know sometimes you are just unbelievable.” Angel glanced over at Cordy who was giving him a look that if it could kill he would be a pile of dust at the moment.

Synn glanced between the two of them, wondering if they were going to start hitting one and other. Cordy got up with a huff and stormed out of the room.

“I am sorry about that she has really only had Wesley and me to hang out with lately. I haven’t seen her like this since her Sunnydale days. I think she wants you two to become friends.” Angel sighed lifting his gaze to met Synn’s violet eyes.

Synn nodded sipping her juice and watching Angel alternate between the mug of coffee and blood.

“Your couch really isn’t bad.” Synn replied.

Angel smiled. “I know when we went shopping for it she liked this couch with all these pillows, tassels, and bright colors. She got a little ticked when I made my own choice and never fails to take a shot at the couch.”

Synn finished off her breakfast then cleaned her plate. “What time will Wesley be in?” She asked drying the dish and setting it back in the cabinet.

“Later.” Angel replied though he really had no idea what time Wes was coming in.

Synn headed upstairs and found Cordy at her desk. At the moment she was blindly stuffing papers into the file cabinet mumbling beneath her breath.

“Can I help?” Synn asked giving Cordy a small smile as she turned toward her.

“No.” Cordy sighed looking down at the mess she had made. “Actually, yes,” chuckling softly she began pulling out the papers she had been cramming into the files. Sometimes Angel just got on her last nerve.

Synn walked over kneeling down she began picking up papers that had fallen on the floor.

“Sorry about before the facial and shopping thing. Of course you don’t want to go shopping its just I didn’t know what else to do. I thought about what makes me feel better its all I could think of.” Cordy sighed.

Synn glanced up her gaze meeting Cordy’s gaze. “It’s alright, but you were right about one thing I need to find a place, I could use your help if you have the time.” Synn lied she could find a place on her own, it just seemed like Cordy needed to help so she was going to let her. Angel’s words came back to her she had never really had a friend before.

“Really,” Cordy smiled, “You won’t regret it. I know all the places you don’t want to be. We will find you something nice.”

Synn and Cordy fell into a comfortable silence working side-by-side.


Lindsey glanced up as the door to his office opened and his assistant slipped in handing him a file.

“Is this everything?” He asked flipping it open the file seemed very light.

“Yes sir that is all that is all that is on record that you don’t already have. Is there anything else I can do for you?”

“I need an address for a florist.” Lindsey sighed flipping through the file that was really very thin. He found out more during his investigation on Adrian than the firm had on Synn.

“Would you like me to take care of an order for you Mr. McDonald?” She asked.

“No I will take care of it myself, thank you.” Lindsey glanced up as she nodded and headed out of his office.

The details of Synn’s life were minimal. The file contained no absolutes, the details all fuzzy. Synn had been born in a foreign country but not in a hospital. The exact date of her birth wasn’t known but the year was, in a few weeks the year was ending and she would be 18. The details on her parents were sketchy, as well. Because of the father’s skills some speculated that he wasn’t entirely human, though even that was just conjecture.

The details on Adrian, and Maria were the same. Lindsey poured himself a drink and glanced at the few surveillance photos he had of Synn. The image of her was blurry the techs said she used some kind of spell to ensure no one could ever take a picture of her.

Clever girl she knew how to cover her angles, except for one. Grabbing his coat he headed out of the office and stopped at his assistant’s desk.

“Here’s that address for you Mr. McDonald.” The woman smiled handing him a slip of paper.

“Thank you.” He replied shrugging into his jacket and taking the paper he headed out the door.

After making his selection, Lindsey gave the florist an envelope to be delivered with the arrangement.

“Don’t worry Mr. McDonald we will make sure everything gets there in time, exactly how you desire.” The girl gave him a flirty smile that faded when he didn’t respond.

“Thank you.” Lindsey took his credit card back. For the price they were charging they damn well better do exactly what he asked.


Cordy slid out of the Synn’s SUV after another day of looking at apartments. They had been looking for a few days. It seemed odd how easily she and Cordy clicked when Cordy didn’t seem to click with anyone.

“That last place really wasn’t that bad.” Synn smiled following Cordy toward the office. Cordy had found something wrong with every place they had seen. Actually it seemed like she was looking for something wrong.

“For the price they are charging it should be perfect. You didn’t want to live there anyway did you see that view.” Cordy huffed opening her purse looking for her key. “While we are looking at places today I came up with an idea.” Cordy glanced up. “Damn keys.” She sighed, digging in her purse.

Synn heard the jangle of keys and Cordy’s hand came out of her purse. “Well I was thinking that you can’t stay here with Angel his place isn’t exactly guest friendly nor is he for that matter. So I thought while we were looking you could stay with me.” Cordy slid the keys into the lock.

“I mean I share the place with Denise the ghost already, and it will only be temporary.” Cordy turned the key glancing over at Synn. “So what do you think?”

Synn took in Cordy’s excited expression and could tell she really wanted this and for some reason she found herself caring about that, about this woman.

“Its only temporary till I find a place.” Synn found herself answering. The past few days staying with Angel hadn’t been terrible but it had been uncomfortable for them both. Angel wasn’t rude but he made it clear she was only there because of Wesley.

Cordy smiled, “Well of course but now we can take time finding you the perfect place. We don’t have to rush.” The idea had come to her the evening before when she was at her place alone. Alone, it seemed like she was always alone though she had Angel and Wesley it wasn’t the same.

And for some reason she didn’t want Synn alone, not right now. It wasn’t a vision from the powers or anything like that, just a feeling. That if they left her alone they were going to loose her to the darkness.

“Oh look at that.” Cordy smiled, “Someone sent flowers.” Tossing her purse aside she picked up the envelope that was with them.

“They came earlier.” Angel appeared in the doorway to his office. “They are for Synn.”

Cordy’s gaze fell over the flowers a beautiful mixture of scents that was truly amazing. Whoever picked them had taste, and the scent was intoxicating.

Synn glanced over at the vampire and walked over to Cordy who held out the envelope.

Breaking the seal she pulled out the sheets of paper. The letter head was familiar though the signature at the bottom wasn’t familiar on the first sheet.

“It’s from Wolfram & Hart.” Synn wasn’t aware how soft her voice was as her eyes slid over the words. The second leaf was from Lindsey.

“They are overseeing Adrian’s affairs, and would like to set up an appointment to discuss his last will and testament.” Synn glanced at the flowers.

“That’s all?” Angel asked, his gaze sliding to the papers in her hand.

“No its not,” Synn glanced away from the flowers and she held out the sheets to Cordelia. Who moved forward and took the sheets from her and glanced over the first page.

“It’s from Lindsey, don’t you want to read it.” Cordelia asked softly she had seen them together that one time at the hotel.

There had been sparks between the two of them the attraction was defiantly there on both sides. The letter was personal and it wasn’t. Lindsey expressed his sympathy for her loss and that he was there if she needed someone.

“No.” Synn replied walking over to the flowers not sure exactly what she was feeling but she picked up the vase ignoring the enticing aroma, and headed toward the back of the building.

“Where are you taking those?” Cordy asked, her gaze sliding over to Angel who held out his hand for the letters.

“Just putting them where they belong,” Synn replied moving on auto pilot toward the alley.

Cordy handed over the official letter to Angel and held onto the other one.

“Cordy.” Angel glanced at the letter she still held.

Cordy raised a brow and tucked it away. “Just because you’re the boss doesn’t mean you can read someone’s personal mail.”

At the glare she received she moved around the desk and slid the paper into the paper shredder. “Don’t worry it wasn’t anything juicy you’re not missing out on some tasty little bit of gossip.”

Cordy was picking her way through the yellow pages looking for a lawyer for Synn. Angel was brooding in his office. As she flipped through the pages she wondered if finding a lawyer in the yellow pages was really a good idea.

Glancing toward the back she wondered if she shouldn’t head out back and check on the girl. Then again she wasn’t very good at the emotional thing. Clothes and makeovers were her thing and it was very likely she could make matters worse.

The door to the office opened and Wesley struggled inside with a box of his precious books. Cordy tapped her fingers on her desk glancing toward the back. Wesley was good at the emotional thing he watched Oprah, Synn was his Slayer after all.

Wesley balanced the box he was holding as he entered the office. A book dealer had acquired an interesting selection of books on demons, and some spell books and he got them at a terrific bargain.

“Wolfram and Hart sent a letter, and Synn is out back throwing out the flowers Lindsey sent. You might want to go check on her after all you are her watcher.” Cordy sighed taking a breath and looking back down at the ads.

Wesley set aside his box surprised that he actually understood the words that had tumbled out of Cordy’s mouth at such a remarkable speed.

“You might want to hurry up she has been back there for awhile.” Cordy huffed flipping though the pages trying not to show she was worried.

With a nod and glance toward Angel’s office he headed toward the back. I am her watcher I can deal with his he chanted to himself as he neared the door leading to the alley. God I hope she isn’t crying I can’t stand the crying.

Synn tossed the flowers into the garbage, and with a satisfying crash the vase they were encased in shattered. Flowers they sent flowers after killing Adrian and Maria, he sent Flowers.

They may not have struck the killing blow but she was sure they had contracted it out they never got their hands dirty personally. People like Lindsey would never actually do the job themselves not when there were so many willing to do it for him.

A sad smile touched her lips how many times had she been the one to do their dirty work, sent to do another’s bidding. Some one who had the bad luck to find cross the paths of someone with enough money to contract her services? At least when she was old enough she chose the job and the mark. But that left a lot of people she had taken out some of them were innocents, and she had been paid to silence them.

Synn turned toward the back door as it opened, and Wesley stepped into the alley.

“Are you alright?” He asked, his gaze sliding over her surprised to find she looked fine, not a tear in sight.

“Yes, just throwing away some trash.” Synn turned toward the door. “I thought we might do some training today.” Synn passed by him.

“Sure.” Wesley found himself following her inside not sure what else to do. “We can train.” Something wasn’t right he just couldn’t put his finger on it. Crying she should be crying even though he wasn’t sure he was going to be able to deal with it, she should be crying.

Wesley watched Synn work thorough the routine he laid out without a word. It was a mediation technique the slow movements designed to focus all thoughts on one thing. Every move was executed perfectly.

“Tonight when I patrol I thought you might like to come along.” Synn glanced over her shoulder as she finished a series of moves.

Wesley met her violet gaze, and nodded. “I thought you might like a few more days before we get started on that again.”

“I don’t need a few days.” Synn responded moving thru the series again though Wesley noted with a little more attitude and less serenity. Despite the increased emotion each step and motion executed perfectly.

“You need time to mourn.” Wesley spoke softly watching her entire body tense up.

“A few days isn’t going do anything.” Synn turned toward him giving him a glare which sent every part of him on alert.

“They are dead I can’t change that its time to move on.” Wesley watched her motions as they became faster and oddly fluid, she was getting upset he realized.

“So that is it they are dead and you move on. I don’t believe that and if that is true you are truly lost and don’t belong here.” Wesley responded surprised as her final move landed her right before him.

Synn moved forward and Wesley remained where he stood not backing down. Despite the fact that he wanted to run in the opposite direction he remained where he was staring her down.

“I don’t want to think about it, not now.” Synn responded softly her voice breaking slightly. “I don’t need to think about it right now.”

“You can’t just forget.” Wesley reached and was struck with the realization she was just girl who had just lost everyone. The little connection she had with the world, had been wiped away. If left alone she was going to bottle it up inside and it would eat away at her little by little.

“Don’t look at me like that.” Synn responded glancing away thoughts of Maria filtering through her mind. The way she laughed, the way she always had something ready to eat when Synn walked in the door.

“I will mourn in my own way, just because I am not crying, and able to function doesn’t mean I am not mourning.” Wesley grasped her chin and turned her face back toward him. He slid his fingers over her cheek wiping away the tears that were beginning to fall.

“It’s alright if you cry it’s only natural.” He responded softly, and made choice. Despite her don’t touch me I am too tough posture he moved forward and slid his arms around her. For a moment he fully expected find himself slammed against the wall behind him.

Instead her head lowered to his shoulder and he simply held her gently while she grieved.


Lindsey glanced up as the door to his office opened, and Lilah Morgan walked in. Though she looked fine he knew that she was far from it. The partner’s had been lenient because Lilah could be useful, but their warning was clear she either fell in line or next time she would feel their full wrath.

“You’re little attempt at repairing bridges with the little underage Slayer backfired, she tossed you’re offering in the garbage.” Lilah responded taking a seat.

Lindsey smiled sitting back in his chair. The partners little lesson hadn’t dulled that sharp tongue of hers one bit.

“I expected her to do something of the sort it was just a gesture.” Lindsey replied glancing out the window. When he received the report he’d actually been hurt, but Synn’s actions were understandable. Hell he was surprised she hadn’t come after the firm already.

“The meeting with the probate lawyers is later today do you think she will show?” Lilah asked sitting in the chair opposite his desk.

“No, she will send some lawyer or perhaps Wesley but she won’t come herself.” Lindsey rose from his chair moving to the bar in his office pouring himself a drink. Over the past few weeks he found himself doing that more and more often. Filling up a glass to wipe away thoughts of a girl he shouldn’t be concerned with let alone interested in.

Lilah shook her head a smile touching her lips. “You are never going to repair those bridges if you two never get together. The Senior Partners will not be happy.”

Lindsey raised a brow sending her a withering glance. “Bridges you burned by the way.”

Lilah shrugged casually but the memories of her time with the Senior Partners was anything but casual, “I paid for it.”

“Hardly the only thing that saved your ass was that Synn wasn’t hurt. She needs time to deal with what happened my getting in her face right away will only get me hurt.”

Lilah smiled, she would defiantly like to be there when they got together. Lindsey deserved to be taken down a peg or two and she had a feeling little Synn was going to be the one to do it.

“I have tickets to the Ring tonight I thought you might come with Lee and I since our firm is one of the sponsor’s.” Lilah asked softly rising from her chair.

Lindsey glanced up and almost turned her down, but he hadn’t been out in awhile not since Synn entered his life. The other associates had been talking about the fights for the past few days.

“Sounds good actually,” Lindsey replied sipping his drink and moving toward the windows.

“Good, we can leave from here around 8:30.” Lilah smiled getting up.

Lindsey didn’t bother turning around as Lilah left his office and wondered what angle she was playing if any. He would let things play out and see where they went.


Synn glanced up from the books she and Wesley were currently going through. Angel was working a case and they were trying to find the demon he encountered.

“You know I can find that demon faster than you can.” Cordy called out from her desk. “It’s called the internet you should learn to use it.”

Synn smiled as Wesley cursed under his breath. “I prefer my books thank you.”

“I found this database called demons, demons, and demons catchy huh.” Cordy smiled knowing she was getting on Wesley’s nerves.

“Do they have the Tirka demon?” Synn asked.

Synn glanced up from her book to see Wesley glaring at her. “Don’t encourage her.” He sighed.

Giving him a small smile Wesley’s glare intensified. “I have to live with her.” She supplied shutting her text and heading toward Cordy.

“Nope,” Cordy glanced up to see Wesley smile his annoying I am right and you are wrong smile. It truly got on her nerves.

“You see, there is still room for traditional avenues of research.” Wesley began when there was a minute of silence.

“There are some nasty critters in here, gross they even have pictures.” Cordy glanced up with a wicked smile fully intending to get on Wesley’s nerves.

“Someone ought to create an intra-demon dating base, you know like arch-fiend.org where the lonely and slimy connect.” Cordy watched the look appear on Wesley’s face as he turned away.

“I was just joking, Mr. Grouchy pants.” Cordy rolled her eyes. “When was the last time you had a dating base.”

Synn stepped back as Wesley moved forward leaning over the desk. “For your information I live a rich and varied social life.”

“Oh, I know every night it jeopardy followed by wheel of fortune and a cup of hot cocoa. Look out girls this one can’t be tamed.” Cordy snapped back every word dripping with sarcasm.

“I will admit it may not be as intoxicating as a life erected upon high fashion pumps and a push up bra.” Wesley tossed right back.

Synn watched as they verbally sparred the sparks flying between them, noting Angel coming into the room though the two of them were two busy to notice.

“Hey if anyone’s wearing a push up bra its,” Cordy trailed off as Angel appeared in the doorway. “Angel.” She acknowledged with her best I wasn’t doing anything smile.

“Do you two need to see a councilor?” Angel asked leaning in the doorway.

“No I am way to single minded to benefit from counseling.” Cordy replied spearing Wesley with a glance.

“You said it not me. I don’t know why you take everything so personally.” Wesley replied.

Synn leaned forward noticing a small little error. “You misspelled it.” Leaning forward she retyped the word hitting enter, her gaze falling to the door and the man walking in. His clothes were in disarray and he had bruises on his face.

“Got it,” Cordy cried with a smile, glancing up in triumph at Wesley their fight forgotten. “Traditional research my ass.”

“Children we have company.” Angel replied his gaze on the door.

“Is one of you Angel?” The man asked moving into the office with a slight limp.

“I am Angel.” Angel glanced over at Synn who moved around the man moving toward the door.

“I am Darin McNamara. I checked around you have a reputation for handling unusual problems.”

“A richly deserved reputation,” Wesley responded giving the client one of his usual smiles.

Cordy glanced over at Synn and rolled her eyes just as Angel and Wesley rushed forward to catch Mr. McNamara as he lost his balance.

“Hey are you alright.” Angel asked taking Mr. McNamara’s arm and leading him to the couch.

“I, think I might pass out. I am sorry it’s just my brother Jack he was kidnapped last night.” Reaching into the pocket of his jacket he pulled out a small white box. “I found this in my mailbox today.

Synn didn’t need to see what was in the box she already knew. It was expected after a kidnapping. Something to prove to the mark that you would kill the person you held if they didn’t meet your demands. Not her style but others used it, because it was an effective motivator.

“Do you know who did this?” Angel asked.

“That’s why I came to you, they weren’t people.” Mr. McNamara confessed his voice shaky.


“I should go with you.” Synn watched as Angel grabbed his jacket from the office.

“I need you to stay here and help Wesley and Cordy find out about the demons McNamara said took his brother.”

“They can do that on their own.” Synn followed him to the door. “You still don’t trust me enough to watch your back.”

Angel stopped at the door turning back to her moving toward her so Wesley and Cordy wouldn’t over him. “I won’t lie I don’t trust you. The only reason you are here is because of Wesley, because of him I am giving you a chance to earn my trust. I would take you with me if I thought I needed it but I don’t.”

Synn nodded turning back to Wesley and Cordy who were pretending like they hadn’t heard a thing.

“I trust you.” Cordy smiled as she took a seat next to her.

“I would hope so since you two are now roomies.” Wesley chuckled placing a hand on Synn’s shoulder giving her a little reassuring squeeze.

“You believe him, Mr. McNamara I mean?” Synn asked softly her gaze sliding from Wesley’s hand on her shoulder then glancing back toward the door.

“You don’t?” Wesley asked his gaze sliding over her features.

Synn shrugged glancing back at the screen. Something was off with the man but they had been doing this a lot longer than she had. “We better look for the demons that dragged his brother away.”



Synn walked into the room as Wesley set down the phone. Angel hadn’t come back or called all night.

“Cop lady hasn’t talked to him?” Cordy asked as she fiddled the pendant on her necklace.

“No and she didn’t seem like she cared much either.” Wesley rose from his chair.

“She should put out a missing person’s on him.” Cordy began pacing Synn slipped further into the room so she wouldn’t get in the way.

“He has only been gone one night.” Wesley pushed out of his chair.

“One long night during which he was supposed to check in with us and didn’t. And he’s not someone who tan’s well.” Cordy continued pacing.

“He could be holed up in a tunnel somewhere?” Wesley glanced over at Synn seeing the look of doubt in her eyes.

“Maybe but something is very wrong. Our client who should be waiting by the phone is no where to be found.” Cordy stopped pacing.

“Right,” Wesley reached forward grabbing his jacket. “Keep trying to track him down.” Wesley slipped his arms into his jacket.

“What are you going to do?” Cordy asked.

“Follow in Angel’s footsteps.” Wesley responded he wasn’t just going to sit around and wait any longer.

“You’re going to the bookie whose job is to cut off people’s extremities.” Cordy asked rolling her eyes.

“That’s the last place we know where Angel went.” Wesley stopped at the file cabinet. “That’s why I am taking this.” Wesley grasped the weapon he wanted and inadvertently several others clattered to the floor.

Cordy rolled her eyes a smile touching her lips as she saw Synn standing behind Wesley ready and waiting. “Then you are doing what Angel should have done, Synn is going with you.” Cordy ordered.

Synn watched Wesley and he gave a quick nod his weapon of choice still entangled with a mass of others. “Need some help?” She asked softly ignoring the glare she received.

As they left the car Synn watched Wesley gather himself together taking on a different air. “I am going to do all the talking you are just here as back up.” Wesley informed her outside the bookies place.

“Just back up,” Synn repeated yet again a smile touching her lips.

“I mean it.” Wesley growled leading the way down a hallway stopping at a door. Pushing the door open she let him take control.

The sound of a fist hitting flesh filled the room along with the rank smell of blood and sweat. The sight of a man being held up by two men wasn’t unexpected in this kind of place.

“Stop that.” Wesley called out and Synn raised a brow with his accent it was hardly a command more like a request. And not one that would have a man let alone a child quaking in their boots.

“Who’s this?” The one who was probably the bookie chuckled taking in Wesley’s attire which was very librarian chic.

“I am Wesley Wyndam-Price and I am looking for my employer he came here to ask you about Jack McNamara. Where is he?” Wesley asked in the same tone which actual was oddly unnerving if one considered the odds he was facing.

“Your boss paid me $200 to answer his questions.” The man walked over to the table and picked up a drink sipping from the straw. “I am a business man make me an offer?” He smirked.

Synn remained at Wesley’s back as he moved further into the room his hands behind his back concealing the small crossbow. Still she was surprised at his demeanor and calm. The bookie sat down not taking Wesley seriously.

“You should understand the man I work for means a great deal to me. And I will not give you a single red cent, what I will do Sir is beat it out of you.”

Everyone in the room broke out in laughter Synn couldn’t blame them. If she had been faced in their shoes she would have done the same.

“You’re from another country right,” The bookie stood and Wesley raised his weapon. “What are you Robin Hood?” He asked reaching behind his back.

It happened quickly Wesley’s sailed from the bolt pinning the bookies hand to the wall, and then Wesley had the bookies gun in his hand. “Please drop those.” Wesley called out and their guns fell to the floor all at once.

Rising Wesley glanced at the man who they had been beating upon. “You can go now.” He ordered motioning with the gun to the door. Moving toward the bookie he grasped the arrow imbedded in the man’s hand keeping the gun trained on the other men in the room.

“Where is my employer?” Wesley asked moving the shaft of the arrow in a small circular motion.

“I am impressed.” Synn responded as they got into her SUV.

“Impressed?” Wesley asked as he settled into his seat.

“You didn’t need me you handled them all on your own.” Synn smiled seeing her watcher in a new light.

Wesley couldn’t stop the warm feeling that went through him at her words. A soft smile crossed his lips as pride coursed through him. “Let’s head back to the office we need come up with a plan to get us into that fight.”


Synn stayed back as Wesley and Cordy spoke to a couple and effectively ran them off and confiscated their tickets.

“We only have two tickets.” Wesley glanced at Cordy who sighed.

“I guess that means I get to wait in the car.” Cordy sighed glancing around.

Synn’s gaze flickered to one of the cars that pulled up not to far from where they stood. She recognized the driver instantly and knew exactly how she was going to get into the fight.

“You two go on ahead I will meet you inside.” Synn’s gaze slid to the bleach blonde in the seat besides the driver chatting and gathering her purse.

“Are you sure?” Wesley asked.

“Yes.” Synn responded her gaze flickering from Wesley back to the car. “You better get going I will be there in a few minutes.”

Cordy glanced over and back quickly when she saw who was in the car. They hadn’t formally met but she had seen him from a distance and recognized him.

“Let’s go.” Cordy took Wesley’s arm and dragged him toward the entrance. Leaving Synn in the same vicinity as Lindsey McDonald wasn’t the best course of action, but Cordy knew she had to face him sooner or later.

Lindsey slid out of his car as his date prattled on about her day and made his way around the back of the car. This wasn’t their first date they saw each other on and off when he didn’t want to attend an event like this on his own. Lindsey admired some of the cars as he made his way to help his date out of the car.

His first visit to the Ring had been for fun. Tonight he knew exactly who was fighting and one these nights Angel’s little crew would find out where he was and come to rescue him.

Synn waited as the couple approached. Her gaze flickered over the blond and for a moment she felt bad about what she was going to do but only for a moment.

One second they were walking toward the fight the next Lindsey found himself pinned against the wall in the darkened alleyway. Despite knowing who his assailant was he acted on instinct. His hand flew to the wrist that held him by the neck like a rag doll in a futile attempt to get free.

Shit, he hadn’t even had a moment to react. One moment Barb was chatting away the next his back hit the wall. His gaze flickered down and he could see Barb’s heels in his line of vision. Slumped against the wall unconscious, or dead he couldn’t be sure.

Lindsey’s gaze flickered toward the end of the alley way as a couple passed by the alley toward the event. They were close but he had a feeling that they would be little help against the girl who tightened her grip on his neck.

Reason found its way to his brain and the initial panic faded. This was what he wanted though he had hoped their meeting would be a little more public. If she was going to kill him he would dead already. Unless she planned on drawing it out. Either way he was going to have to just get this done and hope he wasn't too hurt in the process.

“Did you get my flowers?” He breathed, in response her fingers dug into his throat.

“Where are your tickets?” Synn asked beginning to pat him down her gaze flickering toward the entrance as another group passed by.

Lindsey chuckled despite her grip on his throat. “My tickets are waiting for me at the door.”

Synn sent him a glare and continued her search ignoring the smile that crossed his lips as she came up with nothing.

“I take it you need into the fight? You won’t be getting in without me.” He let his hand slide from her wrist he needed to get her let his throat go because he was getting light headed.

Bruises were inevitable at this point he was now worried about permanent damage. With a confidence he didn’t feel he reached out and brushed his fingers along her cheek.

Synn jerked back from his touch and oddly enough slapped him across the face. Slapped, she couldn’t believe she slapped him.

Lindsey’s head snapped to the right and he felt blood pool into his mouth. His vision actually blurred for a moment. He had expected far worse, but at least she wasn’t holding him like a rag doll anymore.

God she packed a punch and he knew she hadn’t really hit him, if she had his jaw would be broken.

Leaning forward he braced himself on his thighs taking a ragged breath then spitting out a mouthful of blood. Pushing himself off his thighs he bit back a curse as she slammed him backup against the wall.

Seeing stars he ground his teeth together as she took his arm jerking him toward the exit of the alley. Synn reached into the purse she carried and held out a tissue.

“Wipe the blood off your chin.” The edge to her voice brought him out of his pain and he did as he was told. Once they were back on the walkway her arm slid through his. They looked like every other couple walking toward the event.

Synn moved herself closer to his side. “You are going to get me inside if you make one wrong move I am going to break your arm.”

At his glare she gave him a heart stopping smile. “I will enjoy it, as well.

Lindsey moved as she set them in motion without another word because he knew she was telling the truth. For now he would let her think she was in control.

There was no line, and he gave his name to the bouncers at the door. Tonight he wasn’t with Lilah so he didn’t have tickets though he was on Wolfram & Harts list.

“Good to see you again Mr. McDonald.” The bouncer smiled his gaze sliding over Synn. Lindsey glared at the man feeling a coil of possessiveness begin to burn inside him. Instinctively he pulled Synn a little closer.

As they entered the building Synn glanced around the lounge room, not seeing Cordelia or Wesley.

“I need a drink.” Lindsey turned his head toward Synn, and at the look she sent him he sighed. “My head is killing me I need something to dull the pain, not to mention all I can taste is my own blood.”

“You’re a big boy, suck it up.” Synn replied urging him forward. “Where do the fights take place?”

“In the ring,” Lindsey replied sarcastically feeling a little more blood seep into his mouth.

Synn ignored him glancing about the room watching the flow of traffic and led them toward the crowd.

“Tell me about the fights.” Synn prompted skirting the main flow of traffic and making their way around the fringes of the crowd.

“Simple really the contestants are not human, and they fight to the death.” Lindsey replied lifting the bloody tissue from his pocket and lifting it to his lips again.

“How do they get them to fight?” Synn asked her gaze drawn to his lips which were tinged with blood.

“What makes you think they aren’t fighting of their own free will?” Lindsey asked a smirk on his lips.

“A hunch,” Synn replied as they began to weave their way into the spectator area surrounding the ring.

“They are shackled with a cuff, if they leave the designated area they burn up in seconds. If they refuse to fight they are killed in the ring by their opponent. If they win a certain number of fights they are set free.” Lindsey spoke softly his gaze sliding over her features not really taking in their surroundings. Synn was intent on the Ring so he weaved them through the crowd toward an open spot.

“And you enjoy watching this.” Synn asked her gaze sliding to his own.

Lindsey shrugged, “It would happen whether or not I was here so why not enjoy it.” He was lying he was here tonight because of the information he received regarding tonight’s fight and the chance to see her.

A certain vampire with a soul was going to be part of the festivities, and he wanted to see if he was going to be noble and let himself die or take out his opponent. Lindsey placed serious coin with the bookie who handled special sport events like this that that Angel would choose survival.

Lilah looked up from the fight Angel was far more attractive than she initially thought. Glancing up she caught a glimpse of Lindsey intending to join him she stopped as she noticed who was standing next to him. Damn he really seemed to live a charmed life the slayer had just dropped into his lap.

The plans he had been making to use Angel’s situation to lure Synn played exactly how he planned. He knew the moment she saw Angel in the ring below. Keeping the smile off his face he glanced down at the fight currently in play.

Glancing up from the fight he saw Lilah who was glancing from him to Synn. As she made a move toward security he shook his head. Lindsey already had his own plans in place and he didn’t need her interfering and messing this up again. After a moment Lilah nodded turning her attention back to the fight.

Lindsey felt Synn tense and prepare to join the fray below and save Angel. The grip she had on his arm lessened and her hand slid away completely as she placed them both on the railing.

“I wouldn’t if I were you.” Lindsey leaned closer placing one hand on the railing the other on the small of her back. “You can’t get that cuff off they are magically sealed. Jump down there to save your precious Angel, and you will reveal what you are, and turn him into a pile of ash.”

“I would hate to see you cuffed forced to fight your way to freedom.” Lindsey murmured softly his gaze sliding over her features. “A Slayer in the ring would bring quite a crowd.”

Synn glanced away from Lindsey her gaze sliding back toward the ring. For a moment her gaze clashed with Angel’s she saw his gaze flicker to Lindsey. Seconds later the fight was over and Angel’s left the ring without looking back, his opponent on lying on the floor.

“Disappointed,” Lindsey asked softly watching the expression on her face. “I would think you would be happy that Angel is alive.”

Synn caught sight of Cordelia and Wesley heading out of the room. Once they were safely out of the building she would leave.

“Angel did what he had to, too survive.” Synn responded turning toward him suddenly very aware of his hand on her back.

“Survival is a funny thing it always surprises me what lengths men and demons will sink too simply to survive.” Lindsey smirked. “I know that tonight I am going to survive because I have something you want.”

“You have nothing I want.” Synn replied moving to pass by him.

Lindsey moved just a step but it placed him directly in front of her, and he rested his hand on the railing effectively trapping her there. She could easily move him with very little effort but in this crowd he was betting that she wouldn’t risk it.

“Take a look around do you see the men at the exit doors, that weren’t there when we first came in.” He asked softly watching her gaze take in her surroundings. “I have a name, an address, bank account and anything else you might want.”

Synn kept her gaze on the exit. “Did you do it?” She asked softly.

“No.” Lindsey replied annoyed that she thought he would though again he didn’t blame her she knew very little about him.

“You know who did though don’t you?” Synn turned her gaze toward him. “I want that name, along with the name of the hitter.”

Lindsey almost let the name slip, looking into those eyes they were like liquid jewels. “What do I get in return?” Lindsey asked softly.

“You get to live.” Synn replied without pause her words were deadly calm.

Lindsey smiled, “Kill me and the names die with me.” It was in her eyes a slight wavering weeks ago she would have dropped him in a heart beat. Now Angel and his little band’s influence were bleeding through her tough exterior.

“I can find him on my own, now move or I will move you.” Synn replied meeting his gaze.

Lindsey slid his hands away from the railing giving her enough room to pass. As she moved past him he caught her around the waist stopping her beside him.

“You can try, and in a few weeks or months after you turn up nothing you know where to find me.” Lindsey murmured softly. “The guards will let you pass.”

Lindsey watched as she disappeared through the door and fought the urge to follow. He knew where she was going for the first time he could at least find her if not track her. His men kept loosing her when she left the office or her new home with Cordelia Chase, but he knew she would return.

“Do you want her detained?” Lilah asked a chilled glass of Champaign in her hand as she moved up besides him. “Imagine the price we could charge not just for having her in the ring, but for private sessions afterwards.”

Lindsey took the drink from her hand and emptied it contents tasting his own blood mixing with the beverage. “Think about even touching her and you won’t have to worry about the senior partners.”

Lilah watched Lindsey leave the ring, her gaze flickering over the fighters. Tonight she had arranged for her own little private session with Angel. The senior partners warned her about staying away from Synn they never mentioned Angel or his associates.


Angel came to remembering the cattle prod they had used on him after the stunt he pulled trying to get out. McNamara had killed his own brother instead of making a deal.

“How do you feel?” Lilah asked after popping a cork on a chilled bottle of Champaign.

“Like I was hit by lightening after the truck ran over me.” Angel responded taking in his surroundings and the woman before him pouring two classes. “I remember you.”

Lilah moved toward the vampire she was intrigued, and attracted more than she should be. “We didn’t get a chance to meet I am Lilah Morgan.” Holding out the glass she let her gaze wonder over him.

“You’re a fight fan, and a lawyer.” Angel glanced at the book shelves. “Let me guess Wolfram and Hart.”

Lilah smiled turning away from him and moving toward the seat next to his. “I am an associate here. It took some arm twisting but I was able to convince McNamara to sell your contract to the Senior Partners.”

Angel remained silent remembering that Synn had been with Lindsey McDonald tonight at the fight. His initial anger and feelings of distrust and betrayal wore off the moment he left the ring. They at least knew where he was he wasn’t alone. Why she had been there with that bastard was beyond him, but he would find out soon enough.

“I convinced him that keeping you around would be more trouble than it was worth.” Raising her glass she smiled. “Congratulations you’re free.”

“As long as I pretend it never happened.” Angel replied, “That McNamara and his circus don’t exist. That is the deal isn’t it.” Angel asked softly.

Lilah sighed getting up and heading toward her desk looking out the window.

“It’s a big city Angel and there are so many people out there who need your help.”

“So you’re just a Good Samaritan and this whole pact with the devil business is just an act.” Angel responded his face revealing nothing.

“Sometimes you have to compromise.” Lilah responded not liking the way this was going.

“Look the other way you mean when Wolfram and Hart are involved.” Angel asked.

“I prefer to think of it as picking the battles you can win. There’s not one reason why we can’t work together.” Lilah gave him a look she knew drove most men crazy.

Angel reached up picking up his glass a slight smirk on his lips as he rose to his feet and moved toward the woman before him. “You’re right.” He responded seeing the smile on her lips he leaned closer. “There are about a thousand.”

Lilah lifted her gaze to meet his. “I saw what you did to Baker so I know you want to survive. This is your only chance take it.”

“Thanks for the Champaign.” Angel moved away toward the two guards waiting at the door. As they fired up their cattle prods he stopped. “Relax, take me back.” He responded, surprised that Synn hadn’t come up.

Lilah glanced back out the window as the door shut. That certainly hadn’t gone, as planned.


Synn walked into the office just in time to see Wesley kneeling on the floor holding a pair of pliers over the cuff and Cordy hiding behind a wall. The cuff opened.

“Where have you been?” Cordy asked coming out from her hiding spot as she moved toward Wesley. “The plan was to come back here.”

Moving past Synn, Cordy glared at her friend as she passed by. “So we can make a key now can’t we?” Cordy asked.

“Yes it will take me just a little while.” Wesley responded.

“Good get on it and you in the other room.” Cordy took Synn’s arm in a firm grasp not caring that the girl could literally rip her arm off if she chose too.

Cordy shut the door to the office as she let Synn’s arm go, “Talk.”

“There’s nothing to talk about.” Synn replied meeting Cordy’s stormy gaze. Synn crossed her arms across her chest. “I needed time think.”

Cordy crossed her arms across her chest glaring at Synn raising a brow.

“Last night Lindsey offered me information on the man who killed Adrian and Maria.” Synn replied.

“Right now Angel is locked up in some cell waiting for tonight where he gets the chance to fight to stay alive. Did that little fact enter you mind while you were wondering around. A better question is what the hell where you thinking. You’re part of a team now and when we make a plan you stick to the plan.”

Synn glanced away from Cordy feeling like a child being scolded by her mother.

“What did he want in return?” Cordy asked softly having vented her frustration.

Synn frowned then realized what Cordy was asking, “I didn’t ask.”

“Your joking you have been wondering around all day thinking about it and you have no idea what he wanted for the information,” Cordy asked uncrossing her arms and moving toward her friend. “I can’t believe you didn’t ask.”

“I didn’t ask because if it was something small I might have done it,” Synn brushed back a lock of hair meeting Cordy’s gaze.

“That’s how it works. At first it would be something easy something you can rationalize away because it’s so small. They use it to draw you back in. Then that would led to something else, and then something else and then before you know it you’re back in. That’s the way it works I saw Adrian do it over and over to other operatives.”

“Are you alright?” Cordy asked reaching out a hand smiling softly as Synn reached out taking it.

Synn squeezed Cordy’s hand gently then moved toward the door. “I am fine. We should get ready for tonight.”

Cordy tapped her nails thinking about Synn’s words and her thoughts turned to Lindsey McDonald. Something was going to have to be done about that lawyer. Sighing softly she headed out the door at the moment Angel needed saving.


Angel ran his hand over the wound on his side. It was deep and sore and would take a day or so to heal. After bathing all he wanted to do was sleep in peace and quiet. At the moment quiet was not an option in his kitchen Wesley, Cordy, and Synn were sharing some pizza they picked up on their way home.

“Come have some.” Cordy smiled from the table. “We even have a warm glass of the red stuff all ready for you.”

Angel moved to the table taking a seat. He picked up the mug taking a sip. Listening to their chatter was comforting glancing from Wesley to Cordy his gaze finally settled on Synn. Her gaze was lowered focused on her food. A smile touched her lips as Cordy said something to her.

Wesley and Cordy were getting attached to Synn she was becoming part of the team. It was something he expected but not so quickly and the reality of it was a little alarming. Glancing away as he took another sip he wasn’t sure how he was going to work closely with someone he couldn’t trust.

The reason he hadn’t taken her to the bookies was because of that moment in the hotel room when she had rendered him helpless in the blink of an eye. Buffy, Faith, and even Kendra had never made him afraid. Seeing her standing there at the fight with Lindsey by her side had brought it all back.

How long before she was tempted to return to her old life it was all she had ever known. So much damage had been done already. Not everyone could be saved he was learning that day by day.

They couldn’t see the danger but he could thanks to the soulless creature living inside him always there in the back of his mind. Angelus was there even though he wasn’t at the surface and Angel knew the demon living inside him liked this girl and that was just one of many reason’s he didn’t trust her, not yet.