They let Angel be alone for a few hours after the news. Cordelia and Willow left crying. Wesley and Gunn got Fred settled into one of the cleaner rooms in the hotel. She was a bit confused over who died, they would explain the Slayer to her later. “Someone Angel loved,” was all she needed to know.

Wesley found Angel in his bedroom, packing. “You’re leaving,” Wesley stated.

Angel nodded, “I need to get away,” he spoke softly, wishing not to speak at all. “I need you to look after the place until I’m back.”

Wesley wanted to reiterate he was now the leader, but it was not a time for trivialities. “Where are you going?”

Angel shook his head and zipped up the overnight bag. “Wes, I…” Angel’s eyes speaking all the words his lips couldn’t form.

“It’s alright.” Whatever Angel wanted to say, it could be spared. He understood.

“No, I need you to know.” He walked to him, cupping the side of Wesley’s jaw in his palm. “I loved her, but I love you as well.”

Nuzzling into the touch, Wesley wanted to smile, but it would’ve been improper. “I know. I’ll be here when you return.”

#end#