by Kakamabee » Sat Feb 23, 2002 9:46 pm
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<Xander>
"HEY LADY SHE WHO SMELT IT DELT IT!"," so it's like a a giant poltergasm"
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by Tiggrscorpio » Sun Feb 24, 2002 7:11 pm
Why must the agent ask you if your luggage is needed? Do they really expect you to say no? Just point me in the direction of the line where you report unnecessary luggage. Better yet, why don't you keep it.
Okay, rant over. I survived the big moving day. My mother is truly crazy. She has 8 salt and pepper shakers. What does she need with 8?
Pixie - I'd take you up on that back rub, if you're anywhere near South Carolina.
I'm relatively injury free, except for a huge bruise on my thigh, from where I dropped the sleeper sofa on it. I had to remind my brother, that while his li'l sis may be strong like an amazon, she can't go down the stairs as fast as he can. Especially with a few hundred pounds of furniture in my hands. All of that came out more like, "You jerk!"
He reminded me of the time I hit him in the mouth, with my lunchbox (this was 30 years ago). I was a happy, gay (even then) kindergardener, swinging her arms on her way home from school. I didn't know he was behind me. They were both honest accidents. Now, if he had tried to throw the entertainment center at me, I'd have known he was serious.
Anyway, I thought I might be able to finish this story, but sadly I only have one chapter for you. Did I mention the ending is pretty angsty. Sorry, but hope you enjoy.
_____________________________________________
Chosen Family - Part 7
Willow fumbled with the key to her dorm room lock. She could hear the phone ringing inside the room. She thought it might be Tara. The harder she tried to insert the key, into the lock, the more it wouldn't fit.
"Damn it," she cursed.
She took a breath and tried again. The phone rang for the fourth time. She finally got the door open and dashed for the phone. She picked it up, only to hear a dial tone.
"Damn it," she swore again and slammed the phone down.
Nine hundred miles away, the blonde witch hung up the kitchen phone. She was disappointed Willow was not home. Tara thought she was probably at the Magic Box, researching the new evil in town. Tara thought about calling there, but decided against it. She figured the rest of the Scoobies were probably still upset with her, for casting that spell. She couldn't blame them. Buffy's stern gaze, when she realized what Tara had done, was deeply imbedded in the blonde's memory.
Tara was in awe of the Slayer. The thankless job she did, every night, was inspiring. Tara's respect for the rest of the Scoobies was also unlimited. Buffy fought because she was the Chosen One. The rest of the gang fought because they loved Buffy. They wanted to help her. And, because they were her chosen family.
Tara also envied how long Buffy had known Willow. They had been friends since their sophmore year of high school. Tara would have given anything to have known Willow back then. The redhead didn't talk much about her life, before meeting Buffy. She had heard most of the Willow/Xander stories, like how they "literally" played doctor or how Xander would do the "Snoopy dance," while they watched "A Charlie Brown Xmas," at his house every year. These stories did not paint a very detailed portrait of her girl. She had seen pictures of Willow, with her long, auburn hair. Tara didn't believe it was possible for Willow to be cuter than she was now, but those pictures proved her wrong. That was beside the point, because Willow was no longer cute, she was beautiful.
But, Tara longed to know more. What was high school like for her, before the Slayer arrived? What was her family like? Did she have a happy childhood? Tara wanted to know everything about her lover. But, these were the things Willow did not share. Maybe she had a secret, as dark as Tara's, that she was afraid to share.
Tara knew all about not sharing. Look at how much she hadn't told her girlfriend. Now that the truth was out there, her worst fears were materializing. And, if Willow couldn't handle Tara's past, then a future together for them, appeared bleak.
But, Tara wasn't willing to give up yet. If she could prove the demon story was a lie, than she and Willlow may have a chance. Even with whatever may be buried in Willow's past.
Tara decided to head out to the barn to become reacquainted with an old friend. Just a few steps into the barn, she heard him whinny in recognition of the dear girl's scent. Inside the first stall, stood the honey-colored gelding. His mane and tail were the color of wheat. He stood at the stall door, waiting her approach. The blonde smiled and stroked his soft nose.
"Hello, Vanilla. How's my baby? I've missed you, so much."
The horse whinnied again, in response. Tara opened the stall door and grabbed a brush from the wall. She tended to his neglected mane, then brushed his coat and tail. He stood obediantly still, adoring the careful attention he had not received since the blonde left.
"I really have missed you. I wish I could have taken you with me. I don't think I could have snuck you into my dorm room, though."
She continued to talk to her horse in soft, soothing tones as she checked his shoes. When satisfied, she led him out of the barn and put her favorite saddle on him.
"Ready to go for a ride, boy?" she said excitedly. She skillfully mounted the horse and trotted him around for a bit. When she was sure he was completely used to her again, they sprinted off, through the open fields.
Tara loved the feeling of riding. The wind blowing against her face and her long, blonde hair flowing freely in the breeze, was exhilarating. She had tried to convince Willow to go riding with her, in Sunnydale, but the redhead wanted no parts of the activity. Tara knew if she could just coax her girl into trying it, that Willow would love the experience.
She eased their pace to a slow trot and thought of the redhead. It had been two days since she had seen Willow. She wondered what the hacker was doing at that moment.
*****
Willow was in her dorm room, compiling a list of phone numbers. Of the one hundred and seventeen Maclay's she had found, in Oregon, she had narrowed the list down to about thirty-five. She was hacking into the phone company, to get phone numbers, so she could begin calling everyone on the list until she found her Tara.
When she found her, she was going to beg her to come back to Sunnydale. Willow didn't care if she was a demon. She loved this woman and she knew, with unwavering certainty, that she wanted Tara in her life. Whatever difficulties they would have to face, because of Tara's condition, the thought of facing them together was Willow's only option. The last two days had been absolute hell for Willow. Which was saying alot, since the hacker had been used to facing the depths of hell, for the last four and a half years. But nothing affected her as deeply as being without Tara.
Tara had made it pretty clear that she needed to do this on her own, but the redhead had a feeling she was just trying to protect Willow. Willow had to make it clear to Tara, that she was willing to stand by her through this ordeal, even if it cost her the few friends she had. Willow didn't think that would happen. The Scoobies seemed to be supporting her, in her search for Tara. They seemed to genuinely want the gentle blonde to come back, as much as Willow did.
Willow wasn't sure what she would do if Tara wouldn't come back. She didn't want to think of her life without this woman. She needed her. She wanted her. They had to be together.
The noise of her printer starting, made Willow jump slightly. She waited until the list finished and reached over to tear it off the printer. She picked up the phone and dialed the first number on the list.
*****
Donny was in the barn when Tara returned from her ride. He was raking fresh hay into the stalls when she entered the barn, with Vanilla.
"Took old Van out for a ride, huh?" he asked.
"Y-yeah," she answered sheepishly.
Tara had always disliked her brother. He was a mini-version of her father, only meaner. Her father felt justified in punishing her, when she would do magic. Donny beat on her simply because he was bigger and stronger. Then, he would lie about it to their father. 'Clumsy Tara, tripped on the rake again. Gave herself a shiner,' he'd say.
"He hasn't been out much since you left. Doesn't really let me come near him," he said.
'That's cause you're an ass,' Tara thought.
"He doesn't r-really look too good. He had some trouble on a f-few hills," she said, honestly.
"Well, maybe if you had been here to take care of him, instead of running around doing what you please, that wouldn't have happened," Donny spat.
She hadn't meant to engage him in an argument. She really didn't want to pursue it any further. Knowing how violent he could become, she decided to just agree with him.
"You're r-right," she said as convincingly as she could.
"Damn straight, I'm right. That's some group of freaks you hang out with there, Tara." He was looking quite pleased with himself.
Tara could feel her anger start to rise.
"You don't k-know them," she said defensively.
"Yeah, well I know what's going on with you and that redhead," he taunted her.
"That's n-none of your business," she snapped.
"God, you go away for two years and now you're some kind of a queer," he continued to push her.
"Shut up, Donny," she yelled.
"Or what? You'll tell Dad. Big deal. He never helped you before. He ain't gonna start now." He started moving closer to her and Tara started backing up. "All you had to do was come home. But no, you tried to hide. You can't hide what you are, Tara."
"It's a lie," she said, shaking her head.
"Oh, you'd like to think so. You better just keep taking your medicine. If anything happens to me, Dad'll know it was your fault."
"You're just jealous of me, Donny," she said calmly. "You were never as close to Mom as I was. And now, you can't stand the fact that I've found someone who loves me. Just as I am. Who will ever love you like that, Donny? Dad? He just tolerates you. Deep down he wishes you had never been born."
Donny was shocked at his sisters defiance. He raised an open palm to strike her. Tara raised her own hand and began a chant. Donny was dumbfounded.
"You gonna do a spell on me?" he laughed, but there was a hint of fear in his voice.
She stopped chanting and looked at him sternly. "Stay away from me, Donny. Next time, I won't think twice about hurting you."
Before she could leave the barn, he was already devising his revenge.
*****
Willow was on the eleventh name, on her list, when she hit jackpot. She recognized Mr. Maclay's voice, instantly, when he picked up the phone and said, "Hello."
"May I speak with Tara, please?" she asked as politely as she could spit out to the man she barely knew, but already hated.
"Tara isn't here right now. May I ask who's calling?"
This is Willow. I'm her...a...friend of hers from..."
He interrupted her. "Yes, I know exactly who you are. She doesn't want to speak with you," she said sternly.
"I'd like to hear that from her, if you don't mind." Willow held firmly.
"Haven't you people done enough to the poor girl? She's with her family, now. Please, leave her be." He sounded almost sincere. Almost.
"Mr. Maclay, it's very important that I speak with her. Will you please put her on the phone?" the redhead pleaded.
"I have already said, she isn't here. She went riding a little while ago."
Willow believed that could be true. Tara had often spoken of her horse, named Vanilla.
"Will you please ask her to call me when she returns?"
"She truly doesn't want to speak with you," he reiterated.
Willow was fed up. If he could have seen her, he would have been introduced to her resolve face.
"Mr. Maclay, in two hours it's gonna be pretty dark out, so I know she won't still be riding. If she doesn't call me back, then I will come there to see her face to face."
"I'll give her your message," he said, hanging up the phone.
Tara entered the kitchen in time to see him return the phone to its cradle. She was still a little flustered from her encounter with Donny in the barn.
"Who w-was that?" she asked anxiously. In her heart she prayed it was Willow.
"That was Mrs. Kappler," he lied. "She saw you riding past her farm and she wanted to welcome you home."
"Oh, I should call h-her back," Tara reached for the phone. Her father stopped her.
"She was on her way out to walk the dogs. You can call her in the morning."
She nodded her agreement.
Her father opened the cabinet and pulled out a brown bottle of pills. There was no label on the bottle.
"It's time for your medication." He changed the subject.
He opened the bottle and handed her a pill. She took a glass from the cabinet and filled it half way, at the sink faucet. Once again, she placed the pill under her tongue and swallowed convincingly, for her father. Then, she went to her bedroom.
*****
Willow paced her room, waiting for the phone to ring. She had bitten off her remaining few fingernails, when after about forty minutes, the phone rang. She hurriedly picked it up, but was disappointed to hear the Slayer's voice.
"Buffy, what are you doing calling?" she chastised. "I'm waiting to hear from Tara." She hung up, without another word.
On the other end of the line, Buffy stared at her phone receiver. She decided a visit to Willow's dorm room was in order.
A half hour later, the Slayer arrived at her best friends room. She knocked and saw Willow's frazzled look, when Willow answered the door.
"Hey Will, nice phone etiquette," Buffy quipped, entering the room.
"I'm sorry, Buffy. I finally found Tara's number, but she wasn't there." Willow continued to watch the phone, willing it to ring.
"That's great, Will." Buffy was truly happy for her friend. Willow hadn't been the same since Tara left.
"I talked to her poophead father, but I'm not convinced he gave her my message."
"I'm sure she's gonna call any second. Do you want me to wait with you?"
Willow smiled at her friend. "That'd be nice."
*****
Donny had gone off to find Beth, after Tara left the barn. He was going to need an accomplice, for his evil plan to work.
Donny watched Tara leave the kitchen and head up to her room. A few minutes later, he followed her. He knocked on the door and when she answered, he punched her dead on, in the face. Tara reeled back, from the unexpected blow, and hit her head on the desk chair. She was knocked out cold.
Beth joined Donny in Tara's room and the two began searching. They both knew there was no way Tara would consent to taking her pills. They had to be somewhere in the room. They didn't think she would flush them down the toilet, because she would probably want to try and analyze what they were. And, what she would learn, was that they were simply vitamins.
Donny found the pill from last night, under her mattress. Beth found the one from a few minutes ago, in Tara's front pocket. With his evidence in hand, Donny turned to his cousin and said, "Okay, do it now."
Beth scratched her nails, deeply across his bearded face. He restrained his cry of pain, not wanting to rouse his unconscious sister. He ripped the top two buttons of his shirt open and pointed to his chest. Beth took another swipe, even deeper than the first. Blood trickled from the sadistic wound.
Both conspirators stood by and waited.
Almost two hours later, Tara began to wake. She reached her hand up to feel the knot on the back of her head. Then, she touched the fresh bruise on her right cheek. She couldn't remember what had happened. The last thing she saw was Donny standing at her bedroom door. Her room was empty, but looked like it had been ransacked.
She was nauseous as she got to her feet. When she steadied herself, she headed down the stairs to find out what happened.
She found Beth and Donny in the kitchen. Donny had his shirt off and Beth was cleaning some nail marks on his chest, with peroxide and cotton balls.
When Donny saw her, he reeled back, out of his chair, against the refrigerator.
"Stay away from me," he said, terrified.
"What?" she was confused.
"Look at what you did to him?" Beth said angerily.
"What are you talking about?" Tara yelled, then grabbed her head in pain.
Her father came into the kitchen to see what the commotion was about.
"What's going on?" he said, irritated.
He took in the scene. Tara stood by the table with a huge bruise on her face. Donny was plastered against the fridge with four gashes on his face and chest. Beth sat at the table, with a bloody wash cloth.
"What happened?" he demanded.
Donny pointed at his sister. "She did this to me. Her demon. I saw it."
"No, no," Tara protested. The truth was, she couldn't remember what happened.
Mr. Maclay didn't like that Donny and Beth were improvising. He thought when Tara had gotten used to being back home, she would forget about Sunnydale. But, since the phone call from Willow a few hours earlier, he wasn't sure Sunnydale would forget about her. Maybe whatever these two had up their sleeves, would do the trick. He decided to play along.
"Look," Beth pulled two pills out of her pocket and placed them on the table. "She hasn't been taking her pills."
Her father looked disapprovingly at his daughter. Tara's eyes darted from her father, to Donny and then, to Beth.
"But...I didn't..." she tried to answer.
"I went to her room to apologize for the little spat we had in the barn. Next thing I know, she changed right in front of me. Then, she attacked me. I had to fight her off. You should see her room."
"I d-don't...I don't r-remember."
She looked at the gashes on Donny's chest. 'Oh God, it's true,' she thought.
The phone rang and startled them all. Mr. Maclay picked it up.
"Hello," he said, sharply. He listened, then handed the phone to Tara. "It's for you."
Her hand was trembling as she took the phone. She couldn't even speak. Her eyes never left Donny. His frightened look never changed. She didn't say anything into the phone, but heard on the other end.
"Tara. Tara is that you?" Willow asked.
"Willow." Her heart broke.
"Tara, what's wrong?" The redhead knew something bad was happening.
"Willow," she said again through her tears.
"Tara, I'm coming to get you. Right now."
Tara snapped to attention and pulled herself together.
"No. Willow, no. Please don't come. I can't see you. Everything is true. You won't be safe. I can't be with you, anymore."
She hung up the phone on her future.
In Sunnydale, Willow was panic-striken.
"What happened?" Buffy asked.
"Get Xander. We're going to Oregon. Now!"
TBC
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She's my everything!
by boo » Sun Feb 24, 2002 7:28 pm
I'm waiting for Oregon. *crosses fingers*
by spottiedottie » Sun Feb 24, 2002 9:14 pm
This is a very well written story that is keeping me at the edge of my seat. Please update soon. Pretty Please!
I need an update before I go crazy!
by The Rose » Sun Feb 24, 2002 9:33 pm
I REALLY hate Tara's family!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Your warning did not even prepare me for this.
[This message has been edited by The Rose (edited February 24, 2002).]
by scylla » Sun Feb 24, 2002 9:51 pm
by Pixie » Sun Feb 24, 2002 10:00 pm
Okay, the corner is ready and waiting for any kitties who need to cuddle up for support. As I said earlier, we have comfy blankets and cushions. And I seem to have found a fireplace. Since our angst-ridden brains will not let us sleep, we need activities to keep us awake and calm. How about some s'mores? Any other ideas? Maybe think of horrible ways to hurt Donnie and Beth?
by willow420 » Mon Feb 25, 2002 12:04 am
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A.K.A. Liz
"Did you try looking in the sofa in hell?" Willow in Dopplegangland.
*************************
"We prefer Justice Demon, okay? FYI?"
Halfrek in Older and Far Away
by silverangel » Mon Feb 25, 2002 1:10 am
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Willow and Tara's Love
by ForeverPiper » Mon Feb 25, 2002 4:08 am
*grumbles to herself evilly* And then then let Willow come and kick the crap outta Donny! *evil laugh*
by *Willow* » Mon Feb 25, 2002 4:33 am
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"You're a girl in love with a girl, aren't you?" Mouse asks.
"No, I'm Paulie in love with Tory," Paulie replies
by delany » Mon Feb 25, 2002 9:08 am
by Bobo's Mom » Mon Feb 25, 2002 9:50 am
And please let Willow kick Donny's ass...or let him come face to face with a real demon!
Keep up the great work -
BM
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TARA: Willow and I always know how to find each other!
ANYA: With yoga?
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BUFFYBOT: That'll put marzipan in your pie plate, bingo!
by Lonewolf » Mon Feb 25, 2002 3:30 pm
Lonewolf
by LeatherQueen » Mon Feb 25, 2002 9:37 pm
*sigh* Poor Tara. She's going to need lots of love and hugs and snuggles {hint hint } after this from her girl.
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"Honey, I'm the original one-eyed chicklet in the kingdom of the blind." -Glory
by Tiggrscorpio » Mon Feb 25, 2002 10:00 pm
Chosen Family - Part 8
Tara ran out of the kitchen. Mr. Maclay stood looking at his son and niece.
"What the hell are you two doing?" he growled.
Beth and Donny both spoke at the same time.
"She tried to do magic on me," he said.
"She hasn't helped with any chores since she got back," Beth finished.
"Shut up." He took a step toward Donny and pointed his finger in his face. "Don't ever hit her like that, again. Do I make myself clear?"
"You said you wanted her back for good," Donny mouthed off.
"That's right. But I decide on the punishment around here. Not you. Understand?"
"Yes sir," Beth and Donny said in unison.
Mr. Maclay looked toward where his daughter had run off.
"I don't need that gang from Sunnydale, coming here to make trouble," he said.
*****
Willow and Buffy waited in front of the UC Sunnydale sign on the college campus. Willow was biting on her thumbnail, shifting her weight from foot to foot. Buffy's senses were honed on some nearby bushes. Her Slayer hearing was picking up on some activity.
"I'll be right back," she told Willow, heading for the bushes.
Willow didn't answer. She continued to look down the street, awaiting Xander's arrival. As Buffy neared the bushes, two vampires jumped her. One vamp grabbed her and pinned her arms behind her back. The other struck a blow across her chin. She quickly recovered and delivered a kick to the second vamps stomach. She flipped the vamp who had her arms pinned, over her right shoulder. He landed on the ground with a thud.
In the meantime, Xander pulled up in a dilapidated white van. The paint was scratched on the sliding side door. On the rear bumper was a sticker that read, 'Plumbers have the best pipes.'
"Xander, what took you so long?" Willow said irritated, opening the sliding door.
"You know Will, it's not like I can just make a van magically appear." He thought for a minute. "But you probably could, with your witchy powers. Anyways, I had to find my buddy, Tito, and convince him to let me borrow his van. Even though I don't know where we're going or when we'll be back."
Willow climbed on to the seat and called out to Buffy. "Come on Buffy, let's go."
Buffy had dusted one of the vamps, but the second had her by the throat.
"Little busy here," she squeaked out.
"Should we help her?" Anya asked from the front passenger seat.
"Nah, she's just playing with him," Xander said.
In the next second, Buffy elbowed the vamp in the stomach. He released his grip on her neck and she pivoted, planting Mr. Pointy deep into his chest. She ran towards the van, brushing vampire dust from her clothes.
"Okay, all poofed. Let's go," she said, sliding the van door closed.
After taking turns driving all night, they crossed the Oregon border around sunrise. Willow filled Anya and Xander in on her disturbing phone call to Tara.
"So, what's our strategy?" Xander asked.
"We go in and get her out," Willow answered simply.
"How many Maclay women are there?" Anya asked. "We know of Tara and Beth, but there may be hordes of other demons to be dealt with. And, there's only four of us."
"Tara's not a demon!" Willow spat.
"Maybe not, but she seems to think she is." Anya continued. "If they all do, we may have a serious battle on our hands."
"Good thing we brought along a Slayer," Xander said, smiling at Buffy.
Buffy looked deep in thought. She finally asked. "Does anybody know if there's a Hellmouth in Oregon?"
"There's no Hellmouth and there are no demons. So, screw the battle plans and let's just get there," Willow yelled.
The whole van grew silent. Buffy rubbed her hand on her friends arm.
"It's okay, Will. We're gonna bring her back."
Four hours later, they should have been there, but the tiny farm was no where in sight. Xander had pulled over to the side of the road and was studying a map, spread across the steering wheel.
Willow had managed to fall asleep, or rather, pass out from sheer exhaustion, about an hour earlier. The stopping of the van caused her to bolt upright.
"Are we here?" she said, rubbing her eyes to get a clearer view of their surroundings.
"Not quite. I think we're lost," Xander admitted.
"You got us lost? How can you be lost? You've got a map!" the redhead said frantically.
"Yes Will, I have a map," he said patiently. "However, it doesn't have a big red X, with an arrow pointing the way to Tara's house. Now, if I were a lumberjack, I might be able to navigate these woods."
"The maps upside down," Willow said plainly.
"What? How can you tell?" the carpenter asked.
"Because Oregon isn't spelled N-O-G-E-R-O," she said, pointing to the pale blue letters, written across the state.
"Oh." He flipped the map right side up. "Okay, this makes sense now. Our turn should be just a few miles up the road." He re-folded the map and placed it on the dashboard.
"Just hold on baby, we're almost there," Willow whispered.
*****
Tara ran up into the attic. It was the place she would always go, to hide from her father and brother. Her mother would always find her, among the ancient spellbooks and charms, that belonged to her grandmother. Tara would lie, with her head on her mother's lap, while her mother stroked her fingers through Tara's golden locks. Her mother would sing her a lullabye, until the pain in both her body and her heart, would fade away. It was their space.
Tara spent a great deal of time in the attic, in the five months between her mother's death and her leaving for Sunnydale. It was where she went to feel close to her mother. She would open the trunks and surround herself with her mother's and her grandmother's magical items. Tara would hum the tune her mother always sang and she would feel her mother's loving presence, all around her.
It was here, that Tara found the precious Doll's Eye Crystal, belonging to her grandmother. The crystal which was offered to Willow in friendship at first, was accepted, later that same night, as a token of their blossoming love for each other.
Tara could never forget that night. She hadn't expected to see Willow, having been told by the girl earlier, that she had plans with other friends. Tara had felt deeply rejected that morning. She was finding it more and more difficult to contain her attraction to the lively witch. Tara had no idea the redhead was battling with herself, to try and understand her own need to be around the shy blonde. The momentary hurt of being Willow's second choice, was soon eclipsed by the redhead's presence.
They performed a few minor spells, with the crystal, before tangenting off into a game of "Anywhere But Here." The truth was, neither girl wanted to be anywhere but in this dorm room, with each other. The time slipped easily by, until Willow noticed the late hour on the clock.
"I really should get going," Willow said standing up.
"It's pretty late," the blonde said, getting up beside her.
"Yeah. That's okay. I'm used to Sunnydale after dark."
They stood directly opposite each other, a few feet from the door. Tara's arms were crossed over her chest, with her hair hanging in her face. Willow tugged anxiously on her fingers. They stared at each other, in silence, not sure what to do next.
"I'm really glad you were home tonight. I had a great time." Willow smiled warmly.
"Me too!" The blonde smiled and her blue eyes beamed. "Willow, I k-know you said you couldn't take it, but I really do w-want you to have the crystal. It would mean a lot to me."
She held out the Doll's Eye Crystal to Willow. Willow took a step closer to the blonde. They were only a few inches apart. As she took the crystal from Tara's hand, their fingertips touched. The electricity flowed through both women. Hesitantly, Willow leaned forward and brushed her lips against those of the blonde. Another step forward and they were in each other's embrace, for a longer, more fulfilling exploration.
When they parted, Tara half expected Willow to bolt out the door and never return. But Willow had no intention of going anywhere. She had been wondering about this moment for a while now. And, with the initial awkwardness over, her only thought was to kiss Tara again and often. They laid on Tara's bed, that night, fully clothed. Kissing and talking. Talking and kissing. And finally, just kissing, until they drifted to sleep in each other's arms.
Tara cried herself to sleep in the attic. Her only thoughts were of Willow.
*****
Tara woke in the attic with a splitting headache, from the lump on her head. Her face was bruised and tender. Her eyes were red and swollen, from crying. The attic appeared exceptionally bright, although through the window in the attic, it appeared to be only a few hours after sunrise. Tara blinked her eyes to adjust to the light. She heard a woman singing. Looking over her left shoulder, her mouth fell open.
Before her, in the attic, stood her mother. She looked like an angel, bathed in the brilliant light. Tara could find no words, so the vision spoke first.
"Hello, my darling girl." Her voice was like music.
"Mom?" the girl said softly.
"Yes, my love."
"Mommy." The tears spilled down Tara's cheeks.
"Don't cry, my sweet child."
"It's so awful, Mom. What I am. What I've done."
"Tara, a heart as pure as yours could never hold any evil."
"What?" she said in disbelief. "Then, it's a lie? I'm not a demon?"
"Of course not, my love."
"Why didn't you tell me before you died?"
"Your father created the lie, after I died."
"Why would he do that? Why does he hate me so much?"
"He doesn't. He did it so you wouldn't leave. He couldn't bear the thought of losing you. He does love you, Tara."
"He has a funny way of showing it. You must have know about the way he beat me," she said, more than a little hurt.
"His whole life has mostly been about failure, Tara. He's a weak man. He couldn't accept responsibility for his failures, so he blamed them on the magic. You were so gifted, magically. Soon, he couldn't separate the two. It doesn't excuse his behavior. And, I should have protected you more. I thought if I could just love him enough, he would change. After awhile, I just didn't want to be one more person who abandoned him. Neither one of us was as strong as you, Tara."
"Strong? I'm not strong," she shook her head.
"Yes, you are. You had the strength to leave. To follow your heart. You did it on your own. Your strength is amazing, Tara. Almost as amazing as your capacity to love."
"Love?"
"You sacrificed your heart for the one you love."
"Willow."
"Yes. You let her go, rather than let her be hurt. That's the ultimate gift of love."
"But I did hurt her. I broke her trust."
"She has a tremendous capacity to forgive. As do you. It will be important for you both, one day. But now, she's on her way here. To save you."
Tara's heart lifted. "She's coming here? Even though she thinks I'm still a demon?"
"Her love for you is pure. It is all that matters to her." She smiled at her daughter. "I have to leave now."
"Mom, may I ask you one more thing?"
"Of course, my love."
"Why didn't you tell me before I left Sunnydale that it was a lie?"
"Sometimes you need to come home to heal old wounds. Then, you can move forward with your life."
"I miss you, Mom."
"I miss you too and I love you. I'll always love you."
"I love you, too."
As the vision disappeared, Tara looked out the attic window and saw a white van pull up in front of the house.
Willow was out the side door and up the porch stairs, before the other Scoobies even got out of the van. She pounded on the front door, until Beth finally opened it. She pushed past the mousy blonde and met up with Mr. Maclay in the hall.
"Where is she?" Willow demanded.
"What are you doing here?" he asked agitated.
"Tell me where she is, NOW!" Willow ordered.
"Willow," the blonde witch called from upstairs.
Willow ran past Mr. Maclay and took the stairs two at a time. She found her girl on the second floor landing. She hugged her tightly.
"Oh Willow, I thought I lost you," the blonde cried tears of joy.
"I found you, baby. I'll always find you."
Willow kissed her beloved on the lips. She pulled back to look into her beautiful blue eyes and got her first look at the purple welt on Tara's face.
"What happened to your face? Did he hit you? I'm gonna kill him."
Willow pulled away to head down the stairs. Tara restrained her.
"Willow, wait please. Let me tell you the whole story." The blonde began to fill her lover in, on the past few days.
Downstairs, there was a stand-off going on. Xander stood opposite Donny. Anya was watching Beth. And Buffy had guard over Mr. Maclay. All six people stood with their arms folded across their chests. Mr. Maclay finally spoke.
"I want you people to leave my house," he barked.
"Soon as we have Tara, we'll be on our way," Buffy said calmly.
"Who do you people think you are?" he asked.
"We're her family!" Buffy said pointedly.
Willow came down the stairs with the blonde cradled protectively behind her.
"Let's just go," Tara said quietly.
The rage inside Willow exploded as she passed Beth, at the bottom of the stairs.
"You bitch!" Willow said, punching Beth across her left cheek, knocking her to the ground. "If you ever come near her again, I'll kill you." She looked at Donny and Mr. Maclay. "All of you." She looked back down at Beth. "Get up, so I can kick your ass."
"Enough," Tara yelled, pulling the irate redhead over behind Buffy.
Tara went up to her father. Her blue eyes glared like steel.
"Don't ever try to contact me again. I don't want to know anything about you. I'll be sending for my horse. Make sure he's ready when they come."
She went to walk past Donny, then stopped. She slapped him, hard across his face. Then, she took Willow by the hand and turned around toward her father, one last time. She raised her hand, enjoined with Willow's and indicated towards the other Scoobies.
"This is my family, now."
After a pointed silence, Buffy spoke. "Willow, take Tara out to the van. Xander and Anya, get her things from her room."
"Move them in, move them out. Is that the only reason they ever bring us?" Anya said to Xander on the stairs.
When she was alone with Donny, Mr. Maclay and Beth, Buffy said.
"That little talking to may have been enough for Tara, but I'm used to killing things. Since I don't kill humans, I'll settle for beating the snot out of you."
Beth fainted immediately. Donny stood wide-eyed. Mr. Maclay stood his ground. He figured he had it coming.
Willow and Tara could hear the crashes inside the house, as Buffy tossed the real Maclay monsters around.
"I really wish she wouldn't do that," Tara said, hugging Willow close.
"It's just her way of showing how much she cares." Willow rubbed her lovers back.
Tara pulled back to look at Willow's face.
"She couldn't just send a Hallmark?"
Willow smiled for the first time in days.
"Nothing says loving like a good thrashing from the Slayer." Willow added more seriously. "She's just making them understand that nobody messes with our family."
Donny's beaten body flew through the front door on to the porch. Both women ignored him and climbed into the back seat of the van. Tara laid her head against Willow's shoulders and draped her arms around her waist. Willow held her girl around the shoulders.
"Willow, I'm sorry," Tara said softly.
"Shhh. Don't be sorry. We'll talk when we get home. We have all the time in the world."
"I love you, Willow."
"I love you too, baby!"
Things quieted down inside the house. Buffy came out with an armful of Tara's things. They finished packing the van and drove away.
Tara's father watched from the porch. The purple bruise over his left eye and chin, began to deepen. He watched them drive away and he was actually happy for his daughter. It was a miracle that she had found so much love. It really shouldn't have surprised him at all. If he had stopped to think about it, even once, he would have understood that love was everything his beautiful daughter represented.
Tara did not see him watching her. She did not look back. Her eyes and her heart were focused forward, in the arms of her love.
_____________________________________________
Okay Kittens, we can end it there or we can have one final part with snuggles. As this is a democracy, majority rules. Let me know!
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She's my everything!
by The Rose » Mon Feb 25, 2002 10:28 pm
Tara's family finally got what they deserved. I really hope you write more stories soon. I love your style. It is excellent how you incorporated their earlier relationship into the story. I just wish we could see this on the show.
Are you kidding?!!!!! Of course, I want another part with snugglies!!!!! Tara has to explain to Willow the demon story is a lie.
[This message has been edited by The Rose (edited February 26, 2002).]
by spottiedottie » Mon Feb 25, 2002 10:30 pm
HA!! (DONNY, BETH AND MR. MACLAY) SURE GOT WHAT WAS COMING TO THEM. GO BUFFY!!
YAY FOR WILLOW AND TARA!
by Pixie » Mon Feb 25, 2002 10:32 pm
by willow420 » Tue Feb 26, 2002 1:09 am
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A.K.A. Liz
"Did you try looking in the sofa in hell?" Willow in Dopplegangland.
*************************
"We prefer Justice Demon, okay? FYI?"
Halfrek in Older and Far Away
[This message has been edited by willow420 (edited February 26, 2002).]
by Kel » Tue Feb 26, 2002 1:26 am
but can we have SNUGGLES!!!!
PLEASE!
Kel
by ForeverPiper » Tue Feb 26, 2002 3:21 am
I love that Buffy beat the crap outta them. They so had it coming. If only this could be on the show...
by WiccanBex » Tue Feb 26, 2002 4:10 am
i just read the whole thing... i came in a little late... i really like it
"That little talking to may have been enough for Tara, but I'm used to killing things. Since I don't kill humans, I'll settle for beating the snot out of you."
is it wrong that this line made me giggle a little?
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"if you throw a stone, something's gonna shatter somewhere. We're all so fragile, we're all so scared."
Convention review site
by Willow-n-Tara_1 » Tue Feb 26, 2002 5:08 am
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A Closed Mind is a Wonderful Thing to Lose
by delany » Tue Feb 26, 2002 5:34 am
by *Willow* » Tue Feb 26, 2002 7:35 am
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"You're a girl in love with a girl, aren't you?" Mouse asks.
"No, I'm Paulie in love with Tory," Paulie replies
by CaptMurdock » Tue Feb 26, 2002 8:04 am
If you must stick in one more installment of snugglies, I think I can find it in my heart to forgive you.
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"How's that cramp doing, Spike? Why dontcha put some ice on it?"
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