Title: Reverie
Author: Paula
Disclaimer: I'm just borrowing the characters. They belong to Joss and
Mutant Enemy
Summary: Doyle/Cordy friendship
Archiving: The Powers That Be. Anyone else please ask.
Rating: PG-13 to be on the safe side.
Feedback: Most appreciated.



Doyle sat alone on the roof staring out at the stars. His mind was

focused on the previous night and "Honbun's" demented bachelor party. His

mind drifted farther back to his life with Harry.

I loved her so much. I thought she ran because of my demon, but she was

really running from me. I ruined what we had because I couldn't accept who

I am. I still can't.

A wry smile touched Doyle's lips as his thoughts turned toward Cordelia's

concern for him. But it faded as he recalled her reaction to his demon

face. Cordy wouldn't never look at me the same way again. She was revolted 

and who can blame her. What would a beautiful girl like her want with 

someone like me.

Doyle took a long drink from the bottle of liquor in his hand. His

beautiful blue eyes were filled with barely suppressed tears.

I try to do what's right. I try to ignore my demon. I even put up with

those damn visions. Cordelia makes it worth it. She gets so worried even

though she knows that I'll recover. But if she knew the truth . . . it'd be

a whole different story. I can never let her find out.

Doyle drained the bottle and opened another.

***********

Cordelia watched Doyle from the shadows of the stairway door. Her

thoughts were also focused on her past . . . and her future.

I can't believe how sorry I feel for him. I promised myself I would never

get involved with another looser, not after Xander. But Doyle has

potential. I can't believe how he risked his life for me, and even though

he was hurt, he still thought of me first.

Cordelia frowned when he opened another bottle.

Geez, where does he put it all? He really must be hurting inside. Doyle

has the prettiest eyes. But they're so sad. I know he's hiding something,

but I don't know what. I think Angel knows, but he'll never tell me. Not 

if Doyle doesn't want him too.

Cordy watched as Doyle rested his back against the ledge and fell asleep.

She went back inside, retrieved a pillow and blanket from the couch and

returned to the roof. She knelt at Doyle's side, her fingers brushing his

cheek gently.

I can stay out here until morning. He'll never know.

Cordelia sat beside him, placing the pillow carefully behind his head.

She covered them both with the blanket, then laid her head on his shoulder.

Just until morning. she reminder herself as she drifted off to sleep.