The night hours seemed endless, but finally the next morning appeared. Joyce Summers was surprised to see her daughter up and dressed at six A.M. sharp, gulp down breakfast, and out the door by six thirty, a first for a Saturday or any other day.

'That stay at Willow's must have done her some good,' she mused. Her daughter's mood was the best it had been in months, and whatever the cause may be, she was happy for her.

"Hey," she greeted her friend cheerfully, dropping onto the couch. "Ready for today?"

"I should ask you the same question," he replied, sitting down beside her. "You really don't have to do this, you know."

"I know."

"Then why are you?"

Angel was curious. She seemed to have forgiven him for everything that happened those past few months, something he himself had been unable to do. What was her secret?

Buffy sighed. She didn't know how to explain this. It was too complicated. The best bet was to be as honest as possible.

"I love you," she said quietly.

Angel could feel his heart leap into his throat. What was she saying?

"...You're one of my best friends, Angel. I owe it to you to help in whatever way I can."

As his heart settled back into his chest, Angel nodded. So far, she wasn't budging from her position.

'We'll see about that,' he thought.

A knock on the door interrupted them, and Buffy got up to get it, grateful for the break in conversation. Speaking about that made her feel very uncomfortable. She wasn't sure exactly what her feelings toward Angel were. For now, though, friendship would be it.

"Hi," she said, opening the door to find Giles and Willow behind it. "Come on in."

The pair walked inside, and Buffy closed the door quietly. It was really happening. Angel could become human again.

"Are you two ready?" the watcher asked, eager to begin. If things worked correctly, he wanted to give them time to take Angel outside while it was still light out.

Buffy nodded. Acting as spokeswoman for Angel, she stated, "Let's do it."