A Fluke Between Two Wiccans

by spikeme4now

Tara started at UC Sunnydale during Willow’s senior year of high school. This story shows what would’ve happened if the two witches had met then, instead of at the Wicca group the following year.

7. Chapter 6b

Title: A FLUKE BETWEEN TWO WICCANS (6/12)

Author: Spikeme4now4200

Distribution: Everywhere and anywhere, just let me know where.

Copyright: 2003

Spoilers: It would help if you've seen season 3.

FEEDBACK: Yes Please!!!! I would really appreciate feedback on this story; I'll reply to anyone who emails me. Constructive criticisms are very welcomed; outright flames will be ignored.

Category: Alternate Universe (Willow and Tara met during Willow's senior year of high school).

Pairing: Willow/Tara

Rating: PG-13 (first 5 chaps) R to NC-17 for the rest.

Disclaimer: This Story is mine. However, I don't own the Buffyverse or any of the characters created by Joss Whedon et al; you all know who they are. I don't wish to harm them; I simply want to play with them a little :-)

SUMMARY: Tara started at UC Sunnydale during Willow's senior year of high school. This story shows what would've happened if the two witches had met then, instead of at the Wicca group the following year.

Author's Notes: We know Tara was born in 1980; and since Willow graduated in the class of '99; that would mean our blonde Wiccan was 18 going on 19 during that year. Theoretically that would make her old enough to be at college; depending on when her birthday was. Furthermore; since it was never established exactly when Tara started college, my storyline could technically have taken place . . . in my own mind anyway . . . lol

Note: A very special thanks goes to Susan Carr for beta reading. :-)

Extra Note: I don't own the Red Oyster bar, I'm simply renting it from the creative talents of CN Winters. Thanks for the accommodations. :-D

***

CHAPTER 6b

***

Willow stood outside of Tara's dorm room with a couple of mochas, her thoughts drifting to their rapidly developing relationship. With a smile, Willow grasped the door handle and entered the room.

Tara was lying on her side under the covers, curled up in a semi-foetal position. Willow could see the outline of her body under the bed sheets. And man did she look adorable. She had such a peaceful expression on her face.

Willow smiled. 'I hope that look has something to do with me,' she pondered, setting down the mochas on Tara's end table. 'She looks like she's gotten a really good night's sleep…'

With that thought, Willow carefully crawled onto the right side of the bed next to Tara. She settled herself on top of the bedspread and rested on her side. This gave her the ability to quietly get her fill of Tara.

After a moment, she lovingly reached her hand out and lightly ran her fingertips from Tara's cheek down to her neck. She stopped when she reached her shoulder, choosing instead to cover it with her hand. With her thumb, she traced a short line against her bra strap, realising that it was probably the only thing Tara was wearing under the covers.

She didn't check though, instead, she moved her hand back up to Tara's cheek. She was happy just to gaze at her. Not everything between them was sexual. In fact, the one thought that was going on in her mind right now, was how much she cared for this girl. In the short time that she'd known her, Tara had shown her so much.

'I wonder what she feels for me,' Willow pondered as her thumb lightly traced a circle against her cheek. 'What do I feel for her? Do I love her? Yeah…of course I do. Am I 'in love' with her? Gods, I don't know. Am I in love with Tara Maclay?'

Willow knew that Tara meant the world to her, but beyond that, she was still confused. Besides which, she wasn't really ready to deal with her feelings. Realising she was gay, or at the very least bi, was quite a lot to deal with in and of itself. But falling in love with a girl…that was on a different playing field.

Being in love meant wanting to share your whole life with someone. Did she want to do that with Tara? And what about kids? She didn't want any right now, but in the future…and how did that work with two girls? And not to mention her parents. What was she gonna tell them?

Ira Rosenberg wouldn't even let her watch 'A Charlie Brown Christmas,' how would he react to finding out his only daughter had fallen for a non-Jewish Wiccan lesbian of Christian descent? She was sure the reception wasn't gonna be pretty.

With a sigh, she moved her hand back down along Tara's neck to her shoulder. The girl before her had changed her life. She wasn't about to let her go, no matter what anyone thought. They belonged together, and whatever her feelings were, she'd deal with the consequences.

But not just yet. Willow knew she still needed time to fully adjust. For right now, all that mattered was that she cared for Tara, and was attracted to her. There was plenty of time to figure out if she was in love.

That's what dating was for…or better yet, being in a relationship. Only problem was that Tara wouldn't go on a date with her, let alone agree to be her girlfriend. How was she ever going to figure out if there was a future between them?

She did see Tara's point though. The girl was simply trying to take things slow for her sake. Give her the chance to make up her mind about what she wanted. But as of last night, Oz wasn't even in the picture anymore. Tara was the only one ingrained in her senses now.

Last night, she hadn't done anything more with Tara than she'd done with Oz. Not technically anyway. However, if Tara hadn't pulled away when she had, Willow knew they would've ended up making love. That's how enthralled she'd been.

She'd never reached that level with Oz. No matter how heated their make-out sessions had gotten, she'd still remained in control. She'd always been able to keep a part of herself away from him. That wasn't the case with Tara.

All she'd been able to think of last night was how much she wanted Tara, and how much she wanted to give herself to her. And Willow was a smart girl, she knew what it meant. There were just some things that Oz could never give her.

Only Tara could smell so sweet and musky at the same time. Only Tara knew how to touch her just right. Only Tara had those soft and supple breasts that called out to her. And as much as she loved the guy, Oz would never measure up to those criteria.

So where did that leave her? Tara didn't want her as a girlfriend, and 'she' didn't want Oz as a boyfriend. Although, if she told this to Tara, would it change things? Would Tara reconsider and accept her as her girlfriend? What if she didn't? Tara 'did' care for her…right?

'I hope she does…'

Willow leaned over and pressed a light kiss against Tara's cheek. 'You're amazing,' she pulled away and began to gently run her fingertips up and down Tara's arm.

'I know she wants me, but does she love me?' Willow sighed and moved her fingers back up to her cheek. 'Oh Tara, you have no idea what you mean to me,' she lovingly circled her thumb on Tara's soft skin.

'You're the most beautiful, wonderful, gorgeous, sexy, intelligent, compassionate, powerful person I've ever met,' she pressed a kiss against her forehead, before moving back to gaze at her. 'Any girl would be so lucky to have you,' and with that, she moved her hand back down to her shoulder, along her arm, and then back to her cheek.

'And your family,' she moved up to stroke her hair, 'I can't believe what you've been through,' Willow shuddered at the thought and pressed another kiss against her forehead. 'The strength you have. You don't let anyone control your life, do you?' she continued to stroke her hair.

Willow moved her hand back to Tara's cheek. 'You even came out to us the first night we went to the Bronze. I don't think I'd've had the courage to come out like that,' she rested her fingertips against the girl's neck and lovingly circled her thumb over her cheekbone.

'Oh Tara,' she kissed her lips softly, 'maybe I 'am' falling in love with you…' Willow quivered when Tara responded by opening her mouth. The girl had begun to stir a minute ago from Willow's caress, but was only now reaching lucidity.

'God knows I can't get you out of my mind,' she thrust her tongue deep into Tara's eagerly awaiting mouth. 'You're the only thing I think about—all the time,' she lifted her hand to her hair, as Tara moved hers to her cheek.

Willow shuddered as her tongue met Tara's. 'Oh Baby,' she began to swirl her tongue around Tara's, her heart and mind racing with her newfound revelation. 'I really think I'm falling in love with you,' she moved her hands to Tara's hair. 'I must be…'

"Mmmm," Willow moaned as Tara's hand moved down to her neck, along her arm and came to rest against her hip.

"Mmmm," Tara gently squeezed Willow's hip as she languidly pulled away from the kiss. She fluttered her eyes open and smiled.

"Hey," Willow smiled. "I brought caffeine," she gestured towards the end table, "but, I, uh…I think it's a little cold now…" she trailed off sheepishly.

"Cold?" Tara blinked the sleep from her eyes, still feeling a little drowsy. Off Willow's blush, Tara smiled in realisation. "You were watching me sleep," she said softly.

Willow leaned over and pressed a quick kiss against Tara's forehead. "You were so beautiful," she explained huskily, "so peaceful. I couldn't wake you. And I was thinking…"

"What?" Tara lifted her hand to Willow's cheek, caressing her gently.

Willow met Tara's gaze shyly. "About how much I care for you," she whispered. "I'm…" she felt her throat constrict. Her feelings were still too new to be shared or even acknowledged. "I'm so lucky to have you," she said instead.

Tara smiled warmly. "I'm the lucky one," she said softly, before meeting Willow's lips and tentatively seeking entrance. The moment her tongue found Willow's, she pulled away. "So, where's that coffee?" she grinned cheekily, doing her best to keep her emotions in check.

Willow chuckled. "Tease," she pouted, but sat up nevertheless. "Here," she picked up both cups and handed one to Tara.

"Thanks," Tara sat up, innocently allowing the covers to fall to her waist. She'd forgotten all about her semi-nakedness.

Willow hadn't however, and she took full advantage of the view. Taking a sip of her lukewarm coffee, she said not a word to Tara as she allowed her gaze to fall on the girl's bra clad breasts.

Lowering her cup, Tara looked towards Willow. With a puzzled frown, she followed the girl's gaze to her chest. She felt her cheeks heat up as she smiled fondly. Willow's eyes were practically glued to her cleavage.

"Enjoying the view?" Tara smirked, before taking another sip.

Tara did nothing to cover herself up as Willow bashfully looked away. The pair were now well past false modesty.

"I-I-I…" Willow stammered, looking down shyly at the coffee cup in her hands.

"It's okay," Tara reached out and pressed a finger underneath Willow's chin. She gently guided Willow's gaze upwards to meet hers. "I don't mind," she said softly. "You can look if you want…"

Willow smiled coyly in response, her confidence rising. The girl didn't mind her looking. 'How about touching…?'

"Can I touch?" Willow voiced her thoughts cheekily. Not waiting for a response, she placed her mocha on the end table.

Tara gave Willow a blushing smile, but said nothing. The smart thing to do would be to end this now. She should get up, grab a robe and head for the showers. Only, it'd help if she weren't completely naked under the covers. Her panties were still on the floor somewhere—lying wherever she'd dropped them last night…

Seeing the lack of resistance in Tara's gaze, Willow slowly leaned in and placed her left hand on Tara's right shoulder. She exhaled gradually, allowing her breath to tickle Tara's lips as she began to lightly move her fingertips against her skin.

Willow could hear Tara's breathing getting shallower and shallower as her fingers reached the top mound of her right breast. This caused Willow's own breathing to get more erratic as well.

Both girls let out a welcomed sigh when Willow's hand finally closed around Tara's breast. Willow squeezed it gently, enjoying the way it felt in her hand. But more importantly, she was enjoying Tara's subtle yet unrestrained reaction.

'It's 'my' touch doing this,' Willow smiled, gently kneading the girl's flesh through her thin cotton bra.

"W-W-Willow," Tara shuddered after a moment, and pressed her right hand over Willow's left. She held her hand still, stopping her movements.

Willow looked into Tara's eyes questioningly. Was she doing something wrong? "Tara…?"

Tara smiled warmly and lifted Willow's hand to her lips. She pressed a soft kiss against the palm of her hand. "You 'do' know what that does to me?" she said by way of explanation, lowering Willow's hand to the bedspread.

Willow smiled in understanding. She leaned forward and pressed her forehead against Tara's. This allowed her to gaze downwards and get a really good look at the girl's cleavage from above.

"But you're so beautiful," she whispered huskily, not taking her eyes off the girl's breasts. "I can't help it," she lifted her free hand and pressed it against Tara's chest. "You feel so soft," she formed a fist and extended her forefinger. She then began to trace a tentative line down towards the hollow between her breasts.

Tara sighed and quivered at the girl's intimate touch. "Willow," she said her name tenderly.

"So soft," Willow repeated, using her finger to slip underneath Tara's left breast for a second, before moving under her right breast. "And so perfect," she moved her finger upwards underneath the bra until she reached the girl's nipple.

Tara let go of Willow's left hand and moved it up to her right, pressing the girl's finger hard against herself. "Please," she begged, not knowing if she wanted the girl to stop or keep going.

Willow closed her eyes at the awareness of Tara's nipple against her finger. She wanted to see the nipple as well though, but Tara's hand pressing against her was preventing her from doing anything.

It was then that Willow realised that she now had one free hand. And with that, she lifted her left hand up to Tara's other breast. She deftly cupped it in the palm of her hand and began to squeeze it gently.

"Willow," Tara pleaded with a shudder, her body responding directly to the girl's touch.

"You want me to stop?" Willow asked huskily, even as she continued to gently massage her breast.

"No," Tara sighed. "Oh, yes," she corrected, but as Willow tweaked her nipple saucily, she relented, "Oh gods don't stop. No wait…s-s-stop…"

Willow ceased her movements. She could see the conflicting reactions in Tara's responses, and she didn't want to do anything that Tara wasn't comfortable with.

"I'm sorry," she pulled away and looked into Tara's eyes sheepishly.

Tara pressed her hand gently against Willow's thigh. "It's just," she blushed, "you're making me so wet…"

Willow blushed as well. Last night had paved the way for such revelations, but it was going to take the pair some time to get used to the full extent of the intimacy they were now able to share with one another.

"I don't even have my panties on," Tara continued shyly. "There's gonna be a wet spot—"

"Panties!" Willow interrupted with a grin. So, she'd been right, Tara 'was' naked under the bed sheets.

With a mischievous grin, Willow got up off the bed and glanced around the floor until she found what she was looking for.

"These do?" she returned to the bed and held up Tara's pale pink panties, dangling them from her thumb and forefinger.

Tara blushed at the sight. "I, uh…"

"Take 'em," Willow dropped them on the bedspread. "Put 'em on," she continued cheekily.

Tara smiled and shook her head good-naturedly. She then picked up her panties and met Willow's gaze with a saucy grin of her own. Placing her mocha on the end table, Tara deftly began to wriggle and squirm under the covers, taking her time in putting them on.

"There," she lifted her hands up once she was done.

Willow merely widened her grin. "That mean I can touch again?" Willow reached both hands towards Tara's breasts.

"Not quite," Tara moved out of reach and got out of bed. "Time for a shower," she grinned saucily.

Willow pouted as she stood up. "I thought…" she trailed off as her gaze took in the sight of Tara in only her underwear. Her eyes glazed over with thoughts of what she would like to do to that sexy body of hers.

"Looks like you could use one too," Tara teased, before moving to locate something to wear. She purposefully didn't bother putting on a robe, knowing the effect she was having on Willow.

Willow watched in silence as Tara gathered up a change of clothing, a towel, and her bathroom kit. When the girl finally donned a robe, she blinked a couple of times and returned to reality.

"Won't be long," Tara opened the door. "Feel free to use the bed," she quipped, before exiting the room.

Willow blushed at the girl's raunchy suggestion. "Vixen," she said to herself and smiled adoringly.

With that, Willow chose 'not' to take Tara up on her offer to use the bed. Instead, she went to the girl's bookcase and searched for a good spell book. She needed 'something' to keep her hormones at bay.

***

Willow looked up from her book as Tara entered the room. "Hey," she greeted with a smile.

"Hey," Tara pouted as she set down her gear and tossed her wet towel in the hamper, along with her underwear. "No fair…"

"What do you mean?" Willow stood up and headed towards Tara.

Tara stuck out her bottom lip in a mock pout. "I was hoping to catch you in the act," she leaned her forehead against Willow's.

Willow chuckled and gently bit Tara's bottom lip, before taking it into her mouth and sucking on it. When she felt Tara shiver, she let go.

"I've been a good gal," she grinned, taking a moment to notice the pronounced redness in Tara's cheeks. "But that's more than I can say for 'some'…"

"Who me?" Tara asked innocently.

"You're glowing," Willow grinned in realisation.

"Glowing?" Tara chuckled.

"You have a 'good' shower?" Willow teased, wrapping her arms loosely around Tara's waist.

Tara grinned back, even as a blush covered her cheeks. "It was, um…very, uh…refreshing…"

Willow pulled her closer and chastely kissed her lips. "Now what's unfair? You're the one who got all the fun," she whispered against her lips.

"I 'did' offer you the bed," Tara whispered back. "Not my fault you—"

"Oh hey!" Willow pulled away suddenly. "Does that mean I can do 'this' now?" she moved her hands between their bodies and nonchalantly covered Tara's breasts. "Seeing as you're all…'refreshed'…"

Tara shuddered as Willow began to gently knead her flesh. "Oh gods," she sighed.

"Is that a yes?" Willow grinned, before capturing Tara's lips.

Tara moaned into the kiss and lifted her hands up to Willow's back. "You're insatiable," she forced herself to pull back.

"And you're beautiful," Willow met her gaze and smiled, gently squeezing her breasts in emphasis.

Tara blushed at the compliment. "Willow…"

Willow grinned and recaptured Tara's lips, sucking gently on her bottom lip. She felt the girl tremble slightly as she began to tentatively massage her breasts.

The moment she'd touched them last night, it was as if something had awakened inside her. She simply adored the feel of Tara's soft mounds in her hands. She loved the way Tara reacted when she played with then. She could play with Tara's breasts all day…

"Oh gods," Tara lifted her hands to Willow's shoulders and pushed the girl away from her. "I, uh," she took a deep breath to steady her breathing, "I…I should dry my hair…"

Willow smiled as Tara headed towards her dresser in search of the blow dryer. "Too much?" she followed the girl and wrapped her arms around Tara's waist from behind. "Too wet?" she whispered into Tara's ear as she pressed her own breasts against her back.

"Willow," Tara smiled indulgently, letting out a soft sigh as Willow's lips moved to her neck. "Mmmm," she closed her eyes and exhaled softly, instantly reacting to the sensation of Willow's hands reaching up to cover her breasts.

"You're so soft," Willow whispered against the skin of her neck, gently squeezing her breasts. "I love how you feel in my hands," she moved up to nibble at her ear. "You're so beautiful," she continued to knead, pressing her palms harder and harder against the sensitive nubs of Tara's nipples. "I never wanna stop touching you," she moved her fingertips inwards and tenderly squeezed the girl's nipples.

"W-W-Willow," Tara shuddered involuntarily, moving her hands up to cover Willow's. She didn't know how much longer her legs were going to hold out before they collapsed underneath her. Willow was just so damn sensual.

"You want me to stop?" Willow moved her tongue to the sensitive flesh behind Tara's ear, and squeezed her nipples at the same time.

Tara moaned softly. Willow was once again playing the 'stop me' game. Only she didn't think she had it in her to win. Willow's touch was proving too much for her. 'Then return the favour,' a voice spoke to her. 'Show her how it feels like to be teased…'

With that, Tara pulled Willow's hands off her breasts and placed them around her waist as she turned around. "You wanna play?" she met her gaze and grinned challengingly.

"Play?" Willow grinned back, already moving her hands between their bodies. She missed Tara's breasts…

"Play," Tara confirmed, moving her own hands to the hem of Willow's blouse.

Willow shivered as she felt Tara's hands against the skin of her belly. In response, she pressed her own hands against Tara's breasts.

It was Tara's turn to shudder. But she was already one up on Willow, because a second later, she was cupping Willow's bra-clad breasts in her hands.

"Oh gods," Willow's legs wobbled.

Spurred on by her reaction, Tara began to gently work her breasts. "You like?" she whispered against her lips.

In response, Willow thrust her tongue into Tara's mouth.

The two girls were now moaning softly as their hands continued their sensual movements. They could feel themselves sinking deeper and deeper into their own desires. Luckily they were both wearing skirts…

Willow was the first to pull away. "You win," she said breathlessly, her whole body tingling.

Tara smiled and slowly removed her hands from underneath Willow's shirt. "I'd say it was a draw," she reached for the girl's hands and squeezed them gently. "A few seconds more and I'd be needing another shower."

Willow chuckled and placed a chaste kiss against Tara's lips. "So," she kissed her again, "you want me to do the honours?" she nodded her head in the direction of the hair dryer.

Tara nodded. "Okay," she smiled.

With that, Willow stepped away, and a minute later she was standing over Tara, lovingly drying the girl's hair.

***

After Willow had finished with Tara's hair, the girls had decided to head out for some breakfast. On the way to the Café, they were bombarded with a number of students handing out various flyers. Being Sunday, there were quite a few events and fundraisers taking place, and everyone was vying for attention.

"So," Willow looked up at Tara as she drizzled maple syrup over her waffles, "What did you wanna do today?"

Tara took a bite of her apple and picked up the nearest flyer. "I dunno," she shrugged as she read over it. "There's so many things going on."

"What's that one?"

"Bake sale," Tara handed the flyer to Willow. "The campus Wicca group is rasing funds for their upcoming Bacchanal."

"Campus Wiccans?" Willow's eyes lit up as she read over the flyer. "You a member?"

"Showed up to orientation," Tara shook her head, "but it was just three days of meditations and blessings. I didn't sense a flicker of energy from anyone. I don't think there was a real witch among 'em."

"Not one?" Willow frowned and put down the flyer. "Isn't that how your mom met Amy's mom? You'd think there'd be at least 'one' real witch…"

Tara grinned. "You're the only witch I care about anyway," she took another bite out of her apple.

Willow smiled warmly at her friend and reached for her hand. "Me too," she said softly.

Tara smiled back and bit into her apple again. "So, I guess the bake sale's out."

"What about this?" Willow picked up another flyer. "It says there's a film festival. Two bucks gets you an all-day pass."

Tara took the flyer from Willow and read over it. "Oh," she grinned, "it's being hosted by the Lesbian Alliance."

"There's a Lesbian Alliance?" Willow asked around a mouthful of waffle.

"Yeah," Tara smiled. "Showed up to their orientation as well. But I've been too busy to go to any of their meetings," she gave Willow a meaningful look.

Willow chuckled. "Well, don't let 'me' stop you. Who knows, maybe I'll even come with you to the next one…"

Tara looked Willow in the eye, trying to judge how serious she was. "Whatever you're comfortable with," she said after a moment, not quite able to read her expression.

Willow looked down at her waffles evasively and took another mouthful. "So," she changed the subject, "what movies are they showing at the film festival?"

Deciding not to press on the issue, Tara looked through the flyers until she came upon the program. "Oh," she grinned. "They're showing 'Bound' later this afternoon. It's one of my favourites."

"I've heard of that," Willow acknowledged. "It's like a mafia movie or something, right?"

"Yeah," Tara's grin widened. "But it's also got one of the hottest girl on girl sex scenes…"

Willow chuckled. "Film Festival…here we come."

"Careful what you wish for," Tara smirked.

Willow smiled back and dug into her waffles. "When's the next movie start?"

"In just over an hour," Tara looked down at the program. "It's called 'Better Than Chocolate.' Haven't seen it before."

"Wanna check it out?"

Tara nodded. "Sure," she took a bite of her apple. "Could be good."

As Willow washed down her waffles with some orange juice, a thought occurred to her.

"Hey," she lifted her gaze to Tara. "You know who else would enjoy this…?"

Tara looked at Willow for a moment. She'd gotten to know the girl pretty well, and it didn't take her long to realise what she was thinking.

"You wanna call Xander," she said softly.

"He'd kill us if he found out we didn't invite him to a day of girl on girl action," Willow quipped.

Tara sighed, seeing right through her friend's plan. Willow wasn't comfortable going to a lesbian film festival alone with another girl.

"Right," Tara took a final bite out of her apple and stood up. She tossed the core into a nearby bin and then sat back down again. She wasn't particularly pleased with Willow's actions. Why did the girl feel the need to put on an act for her?

'Doesn't she know she can tell me anything? It's not like I'd be mad at her or think she's a bad person. I understand why she's reluctant.'

"We'll call him when you're finished," Tara exhaled.

"Okay," Willow smiled in agreement, her subconscious choosing to ignore Tara's subtle mood shift.

An idea hit Tara as she processed her thoughts. "You think we should treat him?" she suggested. "He's probably broke after last night with Cordelia."

Willow chuckled. "Yeah, Xander's always broke on Sundays. What he sees in Cordelia…"

"You jealous…?" Tara teased good-naturedly.

Willow raised her eyebrows. "What…?"

Tara smirked. "You 'did' tell me you used to have a crush on Xander…"

"Not anymore," Willow protested. "Hello, gay now!"

"Are you?" Tara replied softly, pleased by the opening Willow had given her.

Willow put down the juice bottle and looked into Tara's eyes. Why was Tara goading her like that? It wasn't like her…

'Oh,' she quickly got the picture. "I'm sorry," Willow reached for Tara's hands.

"No," Tara smiled sheepishly, suddenly regretting her words. "I'm sorry," she squeezed Willow's hands gently. "It's just…you don't have to put on an act around me. I know you're still uncomfortable with the whole gay thing. There's no rush to be out in the open..."

"I know," Willow said softly, "but I shoulda been honest with you…"

"It's okay," Tara assured, not wanting to make Willow feel worse than she already did. "I didn't mean to—"

Willow smiled and placed a hand on Tara's thigh, silently letting her know she wasn't upset. "Come on," she stood and pulled Tara up with her.

Tara smiled and pressed a quick kiss against her cheek. "I'll buy the tickets," she said as they stepped outside. "You call Xander, and I'll meet you back at the dorm."

"Okay," Willow agreed and reached into her shoulder bag to grab her wallet.

"No," Tara covered her hand, "It's my treat," she said with a smile. "You paid for popcorn and drinks last night…"

"But—"

"Don't worry about it," Tara interjected. "It's my treat, okay," she insisted.

Willow smiled back ruefully. Tara definitely had a Resolve Face to rival her own. "Okay," she conceded.

"Great," Tara grinned. "I'll see you soon."

***

"Hey Xander," Willow spoke into the receiver. "You awake?"

"Mmm, barely," he yawned and lifted a hand up to rub his eyes. "What time is it?"

"Almost 11 o'clock," Willow smiled. "Late night?"

Xander chuckled. "Cordy and I—"

"Don't wanna know," Willow interjected hastily. "I get the picture. So, you have anything planned for today?"

"You mean besides sleep?" Xander quipped.

Willow smiled. "You up for some girl on girl action?"

Xander instantly perked up. "Is there something you're not telling me Will?"

Willow chuckled to cover up her sudden uneasiness. Maybe she 'should' tell him…? He was her oldest and bestest friend. He'd understand…right?

"You there Will?" Xander spoke as the silence continued to drag on.

"What?" Willow brought herself out of her thoughts.

"You okay Will?"

'Oh," Willow ventured nervously, "yeah, I, uh…I just dropped something…a, uh…a flyer…"

"What flyer?"

"Actually, it's, uh…why I called," Willow cleared her throat. "I'm, uh…I'm at Tara's. She's just gone to get us some tickets."

"For what?"

"The, uh…the Lesbian Alliance is holding a film festival," Willow explained. "Tara was interested in going, so, I, uh…I thought we'd, um…ask you to join us. Seeing as you're—"

"I'm already there Will," Xander held the phone against his shoulder with his chin as he slipped into his jeans. "You had me at Lesbian Alliance. So, tell me," he zipped up his fly and picked the receiver back up, "you think there'll be lotsa…girls at the festival …dark room…making out…?"

Willow shook her head indulgently. "What do you think Xander," she chuckled.

"You're the bestest friend ever Will," Xander grinned. And with that, he hung up the phone, slipped on a shirt and headed for the bathroom.

Willow smiled as she put down the phone. Xander was so predictable. However, she couldn't help but wonder if maybe it was time to come out to him. He was more than okay with Tara being gay. So why wouldn't he be okay with her…? Although, she wasn't too sure what to say to him.

'Hey Xander, guess what, I'm kinda gay…'

Willow sighed and sat down on the bed to wait for Tara.

'Yeah, that's a great thing to say,' she chided herself. 'Kinda gay… What does that even mean anyway?'

With another sigh, she pondered some more about how to come out. She was sure Xander would ask about Oz. She knew Xander would also bring up her relationship with Tara. He was bound to infer something from their closeness. And that's what was really worrying her.

'Yeah, Tara and I are…well, we're not girlfriends, we're not friends, we're…'

Willow sighed again. 'What are we? What does she want us to be? What do 'I' want us to be…?'

When Tara entered the room a few minutes later, Willow still wasn't any closer to figuring out what to say to Xander.

"Hey Willow," Tara sat down next to her. She could see the introspective look in her eye and wondered what was going on. "What's up?"

"Hey Tara," Willow turned towards her and smiled. "I was, uh…just thinking…"

"About what?"

Willow sighed and looked down at her hands. "Stuff…"

Tara frowned. 'What would make Willow—? Ah, it's Xander…'

"You wanna tell him?" she asked softly and rested a hand on Willow's thigh.

Willow looked up at Tara and smiled ruefully. "That obvious am I?"

"Just to me," Tara smiled. "There's no rush, you know. You don't—"

"But I want to," Willow sighed. "He's my oldest friend. I've never kept anything from him. I want him to know me, but…" Willow sighed again and look away, dropping her gaze to the floor. "I don't even know what to tell him. He'll probably ask about us you know. And what do I say? That we're more than friends? We're not girlfriends. So what are we…?"

Tara frowned. "Is that what this is about? You—?"

"Oh no," Willow shook her head vehemently and met Tara's gaze. "I didn't mean it like that," she reached for her hand. "I know you don't think I'm ready…and you're probably right. It's just," she squeezed her hand gently, "it makes it more confusing. I care about you Tara…you know that right? And after last night, I, uh…I know it's you I wanna be with…"

Tara's heart skipped a beat at the revelation. Her plan had worked. She couldn't have been happier. Only, suddenly, she didn't feel too proud of her motivations. Here was Willow talking about how she cared for her, and all she could think about was how she'd managed to get Oz out of the picture. She really was a bad person…

"Uh," Tara looked to the floor uncomfortably, "about that…I, uh…I have a confession to make…"

Willow frowned, puzzled by Tara's reaction. "About what…?"

"L-l-l-last n-n-n-night," Tara stammered.

Willow's puzzlement increased. Tara rarely stuttered around her anymore—except when she was nervous or upset.

"What about last night?" she prompted softly.

"I w-w-w-was j-j-j-j-jealous," Tara explained, unable to meet Willow's gaze.

Willow frowned again. 'Jealous? Jealous of whom? Ahh…!'

"Oz…?"

"Yeah," Tara sighed.

Willow turned and placed a hand gently against Tara's cheek. "Look at me," she guided.

Tara blinked back a stray tear and reluctantly met her gaze.

"Tell me," Willow prompted with a warm smile. "Whatever it is…it's okay."

Tara took a deep breath and closed her eyes. "I'm s-s-s-sorry…"

"Tara," Willow moved her other hand up as well, so that she was now cupping Tara's face in her hands. "It's okay," she pressed a gentle kiss against her forehead. "What are you sorry about?"

With another sigh, Tara opened her eyes and met Willow's. "I w-w-w-wanted y-y-you to-to, uh…to f-f-f-forget about him."

"About Oz?" Willow frowned and instantly pulled away. "You cast a spell…!?"

"Oh no," Tara shook her head vehemently. "I-I-I-I'd n-n-n-n-never do th-th-that to-to y-y-y-y-you…"

Willow relaxed visibly. "Then what?" she prompted invitingly. "What did you do?"

"I s-s-s-s-seduced you," Tara said in a really small voice.

Willow looked blankly at Tara for a moment, before she uncontrollably started to chuckle. She finally understood what was going on here.

Tara frowned. "It's n-n-n-not funny…"

"Oh Tara," Willow pursed her lips, doing her best to tone down her mirth. "You're incredible," she leaned over and hugged her tight.

Tara hugged Willow back tentatively, her puzzlement increasing. 'Why wasn't Willow angry?'

"I'm s-s-s-sorry," Tara whispered.

"Oh Sweetie," Willow placed a loving kiss against her cheek and pulled away. "You didn't do anything wrong," she smiled warmly. "Unless you count turning me into a breast gal for life."

"You're not m-m-mad at m-m-me for-for—?"

"Why would I be mad?" Willow smiled.

Tara sighed, "I d-d-didn't want you thinking about Oz anymore. I was j-j-jealous…selfish… I'm s-s-sorry Willow…"

Willow felt herself falling deeper in love as she watched her struggle. The girl had the morals of a saint. Only Tara would work herself up over something like this.

"Tara," she cupped her face gently, "can I ask you something?"

Tara nodded.

"Do you care for me?" Willow continued softly.

Tara blinked away a tear. "Of course," she said without hesitation.

"Then that's all that matters," Willow smiled. "You didn't do anything wrong Sweetie," she caressed her cheeks lovingly, before pressing her forehead against Tara's. "I—"

'…love you…'

A knock on the door caused Willow to startle and not finish her sentence. Maybe it was just as well. She wasn't sure if she was even ready to admit her feelings to herself, let alone express them to Tara.

"I'll get it," Willow pressed a quick kiss against Tara's lips before standing up. "And no more frowny-face, okay?" she said over her shoulder. "Besides, I kinda liked being seduced…"

Tara chuckled softly despite herself. She was beginning to see what Willow had found so funny. She was being a bit overdramatic here.

"Hey Xander," Willow smiled and stepped aside as the young man entered the room.

"How are my two favourite ladies this morning?" Xander smiled at both girls, before taking a seat next to Tara.

"Hi Xander," Tara greeted with a smile.

"You got here pretty quick," Willow teased, moving to sit down next to him.

Xander grinned and placed an arm around Willow and Tara's shoulders. "When the first words I hear this morning are 'girl on girl action,' a fella gets motivated."

He glanced at Tara and then at Willow. "You know," he grinned slyly at Willow, "if you ever feel like changing teams, I'm sure Tara could show you the ropes," he turned towards Tara and grinned cheekily. "And I'll make sure it never gets back to Oz," he turned back to face Willow.

Willow met Tara's eye, wondering how to respond to that. She could easily laugh it off, but it was the perfect opening. Only, was she ready to take it?

"Actually," she took a deep breath, deciding to take the plunge. "Oz already knows…"

Tara smiled encouragingly at Willow as the girl stood up.

Xander frowned and looked towards Tara, and then up at Willow. He'd been expecting a slap on the wrist or maybe even a bemused look.

"What do you mean?" he voiced his thoughts.

Tara smiled at Willow, doing her best to be supportive.

Willow smiled back before meeting Xander's gaze tentatively. "We, uh…we broke up…"

"You broke up?" Xander frowned and stood up. "When did you break up?" he reached for her hands and grasped them gently. "I'm sorry…I didn't know…"

"It's okay Xander," Willow squeezed his hands and smiled. "It happened a few weeks ago…just before homecoming."

Xander was confused. Before homecoming? They hadn't looked broken up to him last night…

"But—?"

"We're still friends," Willow interrupted, sensing his question.

Xander frowned again and let go of her hands. "I don't get it," he sat back down. "Why'd you break up?"

Willow looked to Tara for support, feeling out of her depth.

"That's kinda my fault," Tara stood up and grasped Willow's right hand with her left. She laced their fingers together pointedly and then pressed Willow's hand against her lips. She looked at Xander as she lowered their hands. Hopefully, he'd get the idea.

Xander looked up at Willow and then at Tara, and then down to their hands. What was going on here? He didn't get it. What did Tara mean by saying it was 'her' fault? Why would it be 'her' fault? And why had she kissed Willow's hand…?

"Oh!!!!" Xander's mouth shot open as the situation finally dawned on him. "You and Willow…?" he stood up and alternated his gaze from one girl to the other. "You-you-you and Willow are-are-are-are—!?"

"Kinda," Willow looked at Tara for some help. "We're…we're…"

"We're more than friends," Tara supplied, as Xander just gaped. She could see he was having a hard time getting his head around the idea. "We're taking things slowly," she continued.

Xander looked at Willow questioningly.

Willow sighed. "I, uh…well, I…I think I'm kinda gay…"

"Kinda gay?" Xander furrowed his brow.

"Yeah," Willow said softly, glancing down at the floor warily.

"You're kinda gay?" Xander repeated incredulously.

"Pretty much," Willow smiled hesitantly. She wasn't sure what to make of Xander's reaction. He wasn't running from the room in terror, so at least that was something…right?

"How can you be kinda gay?" Xander sighed. "Unless you're…? Kinda gay…" He sighed again.

Tara looked at Willow with sympathy. It was time to leave them alone for a while. "I'll go and get us something to drink," she let go of Willow's hand. "Okay?" she turned to Xander.

Xander nodded absently, still trying to take everything in stride.

As Tara left, the pair looked at one another uncomfortably, neither knowing where to start.

"How long?" Xander finally spoke up.

"Since homecoming," Willow replied, tentatively meeting his gaze.

"Oh," Xander smiled ruefully, "like you said…"

"You're the first one I've told," Willow ventured as she sat down on the bed. "Well, apart from Oz…"

Xander joined her on the bed and smiled awkwardly. He had no idea how to handle his best friend's revelation.

What was he supposed to say here? What was he supposed to do? Straight as nails Willow was gay! He couldn't believe it. His best friend—his reliable best friend—was gay!

Of all the people he'd have thought would stray from the norm, Willow wasn't even on the same list. Not that being gay was straying from the norm. Because it wasn't exactly—it just wasn't Willow…was it?

With that, Xander slowly turned to face his best friend. "Will…"

Willow turned as well and met his gaze shyly, feeling very vulnerable.

Xander smiled tentatively. "I'm glad you told me," he said eventually.

"You…you are?" Willow whispered.

"Oh Will," Xander let go of her hand and lifted both his hands to her cheeks. Despite his shock, Willow was still his best friend. And he knew what the girl needed to hear. "You know I love you, right?" he pressed his lips against her forehead and just kept them there.

Willow reached her hands around Xander's waist as she closed her eyes. "I love you too, Xander," she whispered.

After a while, Xander pulled away. He then wrapped his arms around Willow's back and drew her in for a warm hug. He held her close for a long time without saying anything.

"I love you Will," Xander repeated, whispering the words into her ear. "And whatever you need…you know I'm here for you…always…"

There were tears streaming down Willow's cheeks as she held onto Xander. She was resting her head against his shoulder, and she could sense his acceptance.

"I love you, too," she mumbled through her tears.

Xander continued to hold her close, letting her tears subside, before he finally pulled away.

"So, you and Tara, huh?" he smiled, tenderly wiping at her tears. Now that the shock was wearing off, he couldn't help but think about the reality of his best friend's sexuality.

Willow smiled back and reached for his hands. "Kinda," she acknowledged, lowering them into her lap. "We're taking things slow."

"And Oz knows about this?" Xander questioned, giving her hands a gentle squeeze.

"Yeah," Willow replied. "I, uh…I told him about the fluke…"

Xander gave Willow a quizzical look. "Fluke?" he questioned.

Willow chuckled. "Oh, yeah…" she blushed, "me and Tara…homecoming dance…trying on clothes…kissage…fluke…"

Xander grinned at the visual in his mind. "You kissed Tara?" his grin widened.

Willow blushed. "It just happened."

"Feel free to give details," Xander prodded with a grin.

Willow's blush deepened. "Xander," she chided good-naturedly.

Xander chuckled. "So what happened?"

"We kissed," Willow repeated. "And it was amazing. But I kinda freaked. And then the next day we kissed again, and I…Tara…pulled away, and I got even more confused. I ran to Oz…we talked, and I told him everything. So now we're all friends…"

"But you and Tara," Xander questioned, "girlfriends…?"

"Sort of," Willow confirmed. "It's not official or anything. But I really care for her…we connect. I've never felt like this before. And I'm scared, but it's a good kinda scared. You know what I mean?"

Xander smiled. "As long as you're happy…"

"I am," Willow turned her head as the door opened.

Tara walked in carrying three small mochas on a cardboard tray. She looked at Willow and then at Xander, realising her return had been a little premature.

"If you want, I can come back…?"

"It's okay," Willow let go of Xander's hands and stood up to take a cup from the tray. "We're good."

"You are?" Tara looked at her meaningfully, hoping to decipher the girl's mood.

"Yeah," Willow gave her a huge grin.

Xander stood up and also grabbed a mocha. "Thanks Tara," he smiled.

Tara smiled back and headed towards her bin. She dumped the tray and lifted the cup to her lips. She was pleased to feel the positive energy in the room. It told her all she needed to know.

"You ready to head off to the festival?" Tara questioned.

"You betcha," Xander grinned.

"Give me a minute," Willow placed her mocha on the table. "Too much OJ this morning," she explained as she headed for the door.

Tara chuckled. "Okay."

When they were finally alone, Tara pulled out their tickets. "Here," she handed one to Xander.

"Thanks," Xander took the ticket with a smile. "How much do I owe ya?" he reached for his back pocket.

Tara shook her head. "It's okay," she smiled. "My treat."

"I couldn't—"

Tara gave him the same look she'd given Willow earlier, causing Xander to chuckle.

"What?" she smiled at him.

"Willow's been teaching you her Resolve Face, hasn't she…?"

Tara chuckled. "She has a Resolve Face?"

Xander grinned. "You haven't seen it yet?" he didn't wait for a response. "There's no stopping Resolve Face Willow."

"I'll remember that," Tara giggled, before taking a sip of her mocha.

Xander smiled and sipped his own. "Tara," he chuckled awkwardly. "I, uh…I don't have to give you the 'don't hurt my best friend,' speech, do I?"

Tara looked up from her mocha and gave him a warm smile. "What do you think?" she said softly, sensing his good humour and responding in kind.

Xander sipped his mocha and smiled. "So long as we've got that out of the way," he chuckled. "Now down to business," he grinned.

"What business?" Tara smiled questioningly.

"You and Will," Xander explained cheekily. "Just want you to know I've got no problems with PDA's."

"PDA's?"

"Public Displays of Affection," Xander clarified.

Tara smirked and shook her head in amusement.

"Hey," Willow greeted upon return. "What I miss?" she headed towards the table and picked up her mocha.

"Xander's encouraging PDA's." Tara explained with a smirk as she handed Willow her ticket.

Willow frowned for a second, before realising what he meant. "Is that all you think about?" she chided him with a smile.

"I'm just saying you don't have to be shy," he grinned. "It's okay with me if you wanna—"

"I get it," Willow interjected.

Xander grinned. "So, we going or what?"

***

Throughout the movie, Xander found himself glancing over at Willow and Tara on more than one occasion. The two girls were sitting on his right, and Willow was resting her head against Tara's left shoulder and holding the girl's hand. Their fingers were laced together and resting against Tara's thigh. Every time he looked down, he couldn't help but notice that Willow was slowly running her thumb against Tara's hand, gently caressing her as they watched the movie.

Whenever he looked across at Willow's face, he noticed the dreamy expression in her eye. He could also see the affection in Tara's eyes as well. On occasion, she would glance down at their joined hands and smile, or look up at Willow and press a soft kiss against her cheek.

This said a lot to Xander. And he couldn't be happier for Willow. Tara was a good person, and what's more, she was hot too. But that was beside the point. What mattered the most to Xander was Willow's trust in him—in his reaction and his love for her.

After 'Better than Chocolate' had finished, the three teens headed towards the Café for a late lunch. Once they'd eaten, they went back to the auditorium hosting the film festival, and settled in to watch some more movies.

When the movie 'Bound' had finished, they piled out of the auditorium to stretch their legs. Xander decided he'd had enough and thanked the girls for the fun day. He was definitely up for a little action though…and if Cordy wasn't interested, maybe he could convince a certain dark-haired Slayer…

***

"You wanna see another movie?" Willow asked Tara once Xander had left.

Tara thought for a second. It was late in the afternoon, and the twilight hadn't even set in yet. However, she and Willow had been neglecting their magicks lately, and she didn't want the girl to fall behind.

"I thought maybe we could do some spells," Tara ventured. "It's been a few days…"

"Right," Willow instantly agreed. "Spells it is. Besides, I don't think I can handle any more onscreen action," she chuckled. "That last movie…"

Tara nodded her head in agreement and grasped Willow's hand. "Now you know why it's one of my favourites," she said as they began walking.

"It's good for the imagination," Willow grinned.

"My thoughts exactly," Tara smiled.

A few minutes later, they finally reached Tara's dorm. Willow sat herself down on the bed as Tara searched for a good spell book. They spent the next few hours going over spells before heading out for dinner.

After dinner the girls returned to Tara's room and inevitably began to make out. Tara stopped things pretty quickly though; not wanting the situation to get out of hand. She then mentioned that it might be a good idea if Willow didn't sleep over anymore.

They had now reached a new level in their relationship, and if they slept in the same bed, she'd be willing to bet that there wouldn't be much actual 'sleeping' going on. However, she did agree to meet Willow for breakfast in the morning. If they couldn't spend their evenings together, then they could at least start their days together.

***

That's how the next few days went for them. The couple would meet in the morning for breakfast, then Tara would walk Willow to school, before heading off to her own classes.

In the afternoons they'd meet back at Tara's, where they'd practice their spells, have dinner, and even make out a little. They did their best not to take things too far though—limiting the temptation to takes things further.

The following Sunday, the girls bypassed their evening make out session in lieu of hanging out at the Bronze. After their afternoon magicks, Oz had shown up at Tara's. He'd driven them to the Bronze and had dinner with the two girls before his first set had started.

After his third set, Oz put down his guitar and set off down the stage. The Bronze was especially crowded tonight, making seating a bit of a chore. Consequently, as he reached the table where Willow, Tara, Xander, and Cordelia were sitting, there wasn't much room for him.

"Oz, hey!" Willow smiled in greeting. "Have a seat…" she looked around and frowned. "Except, we don't have any seats…"

"It's okay," he smiled. "I'll just scrunch in," he nudged Willow over a bit so that she was now practically sitting in Tara's lap.

Tara instantly wrapped her arms around Willow's waist and lifted her up so that she really was sitting in her lap.

"You don't mind?" she half whispered into Willow's ear, speaking just loud enough to be heard over the crowd and the music, but soft enough so that no one else heard.

"Nope," Willow craned her neck back and smiled, before turning around and placing her arms over Tara's. She pressed gently against them, letting her know she was okay with this.

"Why you giving her a lap dance?" Cordelia instantly asked.

Willow smiled weakly, but chose not to get up. Instead, she gently stroked Tara's arm.

"What? I just like her," she chuckled, figuring humour was her best bet. She wasn't going to make the same mistake of overacting to Cordelia's comments as she had in the past.

Cordelia gave her a questioning look, and then shrugged. She'd never understand geeks.

Tara smiled and gently tightened her grip around Willow's waist and rested her chin on the girl's shoulder. She was very proud of her reaction. It showed her just how much Willow was growing. Only a week ago, she probably would've turned beet red and stammered something overly defensive in response to Cordy's question.

Regardless of her attempt at a joke, Willow still felt a little awkward. Which is why she decided to change the subject away from her and Tara.

"Hey!" she grinned nervously. "Speaking of people and things they do that aren't like usual, anyone notice Buffy acting sort of different?"

"Lets see," Xander pondered, "uh, killing zombies…uh, torching sewer monsters, and…no. That's pretty much the, uh…same old Buffster," he grinned.

Willow furrowed her brow. "Well, I just mean, you know, she's off by herself a lot more, and she's kind of…distracted…"

Cordelia smiled in response. "Think maybe she has a new honey?"

"A boyfriend?" Willow exclaimed, craning her neck to look up at Tara, before glancing at Xander. "Why wouldn't she tell us?"

"Excuse me?" Cordelia interjected. "When your last steady killed half the class, and then your rebound guy sends you a dump-o-gram? It makes a girl shy."

"But we're the best of Buffy's bestest buds," Xander looked at his girlfriend, and then at Willow and Tara. "She'd tell 'us'…" he appealed.

"Tell you what?" Buffy questioned from behind Xander. She nudged her way passed him so that she was now standing between him and Tara, who still had Willow in her lap.

"About your new boyfriend," Willow turned and smiled. "Who we made up. Unless we didn't?" she looked at her quizzically.

Buffy raised her eyebrows in response. "This was a topic of discussion?"

"Well," Oz explained, "raised, but never discussed."

"So," Cordelia interjected bluntly, "are you dating somebody or not?"

Buffy took a moment as she considered how best to answer. Craning her neck, she spotted someone in the crowd and smiled.

"I wouldn't use the word 'dating', " she turned to face Willow. "But I 'am' going out with somebody," she grinned. "Tonight, as a matter of fact."

This was news to Willow. "Really?" she exclaimed in surprise. "Who?"

Faith emerged from the crowd, put her hand against Xander's shoulder and pushed him aside. "Yo, what's up?" she nudged up against Buffy. "Hey, time to motorvate," she gave her fellow Slayer another nudge.

Buffy grinned and turned to face Faith. "Really," she placed an arm around her shoulder suggestively. "We're just 'good friends'," she smiled.

Faith gave Buffy a flirtatious look, choosing to go in on whatever game the girl was playing. She then winked at Tara, before placing her own arm around Buffy's waist and leading her out of the club.

Willow craned her neck to look at Tara in shock. She couldn't believe what she'd just seen. Faith and Buffy…together…it wasn't possible. Was it?

"You don't think…?" she asked Tara

Tara chuckled, following Willow's train of thought. "I dunno," she shrugged.

Willow didn't know what to think either. However, if Buffy 'was' with Faith, then that would definitely give her something to think about. It would change things for Willow immensely.

Not only would it make coming out easier, but it lessened the niggling fear that Faith might one day swoop Tara out from under her…

Although, on second thoughts, a part of her didn't like the idea of Buffy and Faith together either. She felt as if Faith was encroaching on 'her' territory…

"I knew it," Cordelia exclaimed, interrupting Willow's thoughts. "It's finally gotten to her."

Everyone looked at Cordy in confusion.

"Loser guys," Cordy explained, wondering why everyone was so dense. "No wonder she's turned lesbian."

Tara chuckled in bemusement. "You d-don't just turn l-lesbian Cordelia. If Buffy is gay, th-then she's always had it in-inside her. She just hasn't r-realised it till now."

Tara gave Willow's arm a little squeeze, letting the redhead know the double meaning behind her words.

Willow smiled and gave Tara a squeeze of her own. The blonde did have a good point.

"But," Tara continued thoughtfully, "I don't really think Buffy and Faith—"

"Why not?" Cordelia questioned. "No offence, but Buffy's more Faith's style than you'll ever be."

Tara smiled good-naturedly. "Right," she voiced her thoughts. "They do make a better couple. But I think Buffy was just t-teasing. I've never gotten the, um…the…" she trailed off, struggling to find the right word.

"Lesbi-vibe," Willow supplied with a chuckle.

"Yeah," Tara giggled, enjoying the turn of the conversation. "I've never gotten the lesbi-vibe off Buffy."

"Whatever," Cordelia shrugged, getting bored with the whole topic.

"Next set," Oz stood up, having noticed his band reconvening on stage.

"Okay," Willow smiled at him as he left. She didn't rush to take his seat though. She was happy right where she was. In Tara's lap.

As the evening progressed, Willow continued to ponder over Faith and Buffy. Wondering what their relationship meant, and how it affected her personally. In fact, she continued to mull over the issue long after she'd said goodbye to everyone, and had curled up in her own bed.

***

The next evening, after her last class, Tara headed over towards the library to meet with Willow. The girl had left a message on her machine, letting her know that something was up. Apparently there was a new demon on the loose by the name of Lagos. He was searching for an artefact known as the 'Glove of Myhnegon.' The glove was meant to be extremely powerful and highly dangerous. Unfortunately, there wasn't much of a record as to its full power.

Willow had told her that this information had come from a new Watcher by the name of Gwendolyn Post. She'd shown up during the Slayers' patrol last night.

However, according to Willow, this new Watcher was giving Giles a bit of a hard time. 'Poor Giles,' Tara thought to herself as she walked down the school corridors. It was never easy being upstaged.

As she entered the library, Tara noted that Giles was sitting at a table going over a number of large volumes. Xander was looking down at him from the end of the table, and Willow was standing behind him near the railing next to the stacks.

"Hey," she greeted, giving Xander a smile before reaching Willow's side. She grasped her hand and gave her a gentle squeeze.

"Hey," Willow squeezed back.

"Oh, this is intolerable!" Giles slammed shut the book he was reading.

Both Tara and Willow jumped in surprise, and looked at each other with a worried expression.

"There's not a word here about Lagos or the glove." Giles stood up. "We don't have time for this," he dropped the book onto the table in frustration, "near-missing."

Willow and Tara gave each other another worried look. It wasn't like Giles to get so agitated. They looked down at Xander, who seemed to share their confusion. He shrugged at them as they both took a few steps towards him.

Giles turned around to face the three teens. "Just find out all you can about the demon," he instructed. "Its-its-its strengths, its-its weaknesses," he began to pace the room, "its places of origin." With a sigh he paused to yank off his glasses. "And most importantly," he gestured towards Xander with his glasses, "what it plans to do with this blasted glove."

Unlike the two girls, Xander wasn't gonna take this kind of behaviour from him. "Hey," he protested, "you're not the Watcher of me."

"Then go home," Giles retorted. "But if you choose to stay, then work."

With that, he turned around and stormed off into his office, leaving the threesome to gape after him.

"Poor Giles," Tara sighed, giving Willow's hand a gentle squeeze as they headed up into the stacks.

"Poor 'us'," Willow corrected. "We've been at it all day," she said as Xander joined them in the stacks. "It's late, I'm tired. What does he want from us anyway?"

"The number of a qualified surgeon to remove the British flag from his butt?" Xander quipped.

Tara looked at Xander and smiled. She supposed they were right to be upset with Giles. After all, they'd had to put up with him for the better part of the day. She'd just gotten here. But still, she couldn't really blame Giles for being frustrated. She kept her opinion to herself though. She could see it wasn't gonna be appreciated.

As Xander moved to look through the stacks, she followed Willow to a section where a couple of books were already lying open on the floor. She sat down next to Willow and picked up the book in front of her.

"My eyes are all blurry," Willow set down her book after a moment.

Tara looked up from her own book and glanced sympathetically at Willow, who was now leaning forward and resting her head in her hands. She wished there was something she could do to make her feel better. She watched silently as the girl started rubbing her temples with her fingers.

"Ohh…" Willow moaned, and continued to rub her temples.

Tara watched Willow for another moment, before putting her book down. She couldn't just sit by and watch her in pain. With that, she scooted over and reached for Willow. She covered the girl's hands with her own and let loose with a tiny sliver of energy.

"Ohh," Willow moaned and dropped her own hands into her lap.

Tara smiled and began to gently massage Willow's temples. She pressed her forehead against the back of Willow's head and closed her eyes as she released her energy progressively.

"Ohh," Willow moaned again, quickly succumbing to Tara's ministrations. However, as usual, the girl's touch did more than just soothe her pain. She was beginning to feel an all too familiar stirring between her thighs.

"Oh," Willow sighed, "stop…"

"Right," Tara continued to massage Willow, getting drawn into the moment. "Stop means no, and no means no," she sighed, "so, um…stop…"

With that, she lifted her forehead away and stopped her massage. She then leaned herself back against the bookshelf and picked up her book.

The moment Tara moved away, Willow instantly missed her presence. Without a second thought, she turned around and grasped Tara's cheeks in her hands.

Tara immediately dropped her book and wrapped her arms around Willow. She drew the girl closer to her and opened her mouth. She trembled when she felt Willow's tongue against her own.

Having heard the drop of a book, followed by the sound of moaning, Xander stepped around the stacks to investigate. He stopped in his tracks when he came upon Willow and Tara. He felt as if all his Christmases had come at once. He knew he should look away, give the girls some privacy. But his hormones wouldn't listen to his brain.

In fact, he was so enthralled, that he failed to notice Giles walking up behind him, his nose in a book.

"Tara," Giles stopped walking, but continued to read. "Willow, Xander…"

Xander startled and turned around, wondering if he'd been caught staring.

Willow and Tara meanwhile scrambled to their feet in embarrassment.

"You can stop your, uh, studying," Giles glanced up from his book, but only to look at the book shelf in front of him. He had his back to all three of them

As Willow and Tara looked at each other nervously, Xander glanced back at them sheepishly. The pair looked at Xander in exasperation, not really able to be too mad at him.

"I've got what I need," Giles continued, still not bothering to turn around.

"What have you got?" Xander turned around, doing his best to sound nonchalant.

"Uh, the probable location of the 'Glove of Myhnegon'," Giles finally turned around to face the three teens. "It's, uh, housed in the Von Hauptman family crypt," he lowered his gaze back to the book in his hands.

"Yeah," Xander clicked at the name, "that's that big one over at the Restfield Cemetery."

"Yeah, well," Willow ventured nervously, wondering how much he'd seen, if anything at all, "that's great, Giles."

Tara nodded in agreement. "Um, how'd you find it?"

"I looked," Giles said caustically as he continued reading.

"Where's Buffy at?" Xander interjected.

"Uh, I'm not sure," Giles replied distractedly.

"Well," Xander figured he might as well do something useful, seeing as he felt a little guilty for spying on Willow and Tara. "I'll go check out this, uh, crypt," he moved to leave. "Um, tell her 'heads up' if she, uh, stops by."

With that, he gave Willow and Tara another apologetic smile, before exiting. He figured it'd be better to leave before they could confront him.

"Yes," Giles continued reading, "by all means, go."

Willow looked at Tara nervously. "A-and we'll just keep studying," she suggested.

"Right," Tara agreed. "I-I-I think we're on the verge of a b-b-big Lagos breakthrough."

Giles finally looked up from his book. "No," he glanced at Willow and then at Tara. "I'd say we're done." And with that, he headed back out of the stacks.

Willow and Tara looked at each other and then burst into giggles, letting out all their nervous tension.

"Man," Willow sighed. "That was close."

"Yeah," Tara agreed. "I'm sorry…"

"It's okay," Willow reassured. "I don't think he saw us."

"Yeah," Tara chuckled. "But, uh…I think 'Xander' did."

Willow chuckled as well. "Did you see the look on his face?" she grinned.

"Yeah," Tara chuckled. "Oh," she frowned as she realised something.

"What?" Willow prompted.

"He's gone to the cemetery all alone," she noted.

"Think he was scared to face us?" Willow chuckled.

"He could get hurt," Tara pointed out.

Willow frowned. Tara was right. "You wanna go after him?"

"Yeah."

***

As he neared the crypt, Xander frowned at the darkness before him. He couldn't help but feel a little apprehensive.

"Hey, Giles," he spoke to himself sarcastically, "here's a nifty idea. Why don't I alleviate my guilt by goin' out and gettin' myself really, really killed?"

"Would 'we' let that happen?" Willow came up behind him and draped her left arm around his waist.

"But the least you coulda done was give us a warning about Giles," Tara came from his other side and put her right arm around him, resting her hand on top of Willow's.

Xander looked at Willow and then at Tara and wrapped an arm around each of the girls' shoulders. He was a little startled to see them, but pleased nevertheless. He wasn't gonna get killed after all. Not with two powerful witches by his side. Speaking of which…hadn't he just angered these two really powerful witches…?

"Hey," he smiled ruefully. "You guys aren't gonna turn me into a frog or something, are you?" he quipped, only half kidding.

Tara looked at Willow and chuckled. "Maybe a toad," she grinned.

"Or a slug," Willow suggested. "They're easier to conjure."

"Yeah," Tara agreed.

"You don't mind being a slug, do you Xander?" Willow teased.

Xander alternated his gaze from one girl to the other and smiled weakly. "I'm sorry," he apologised.

"We forgive you," Tara smiled.

"This time," Willow corrected with a grin.

"No more spying," Xander ventured, "I promise."

"Hey," Tara suddenly frowned, hearing a crackling in the bushes. "What was that?" She took a few steps forward. If she wasn't mistaken, she could hear the sound of stone grinding against stone.

Willow stepped away and followed Tara's lead, as did Xander.

"It's a grinding noise," Xander whispered. "It's coming form inside the crypt."

The three teens looked at one another and wordlessly ducked behind the nearby group of bushes. Hopefully whoever was making that noise would come out soon. Sure enough, not a minute had gone by, before they spied a dark shadowy figure exiting the crypt. They remained silent as the figure closed the door, noting it held a bundle of rags in its arms. Most likely the 'Glove of Myhnegon.'

"Oh God," Willow's eyes widened as she caught her first glance at the figure's face. She turned to face Xander, seeing he'd noticed him too. He'd reached into his pocket and pulled out his stake, and was now holding it at the ready.

Tara frowned at their reaction. What was she missing here? Did they recognise this figure?

Willow looked passed Xander and noticed Tara's puzzlement. "It's Angel," she whispered.

"Lets go," Xander stood up, figuring the vamp was now far enough away to be followed.

"Right," Willow agreed and reached her hand for Tara.

Tara was extremely puzzled as she grasped Willow's hand and followed after Xander. Wasn't Angel supposed to be dead? And hadn't he been cured before Buffy killed him? So, if he was cured, then why was he stealing the 'Glove of Myhnegon?'

A few minutes later, they had followed Angel back to his mansion. They still hadn't spoken a word to one another. Willow and Xander both seemed to be in a bit of a daze. Tara didn't really blame them. After all, Angel 'had' tried to kill all of them, and he 'was' supposed to be dead.

Xander was the first one to break the silence. "Lets see what he's got planned," he ventured towards a window.

"Right," Willow nodded and followed him to the window.

Seeing as she was still holding Willow's hand, Tara had no choice but to do the same.

As they peered inside, there was a group exhalation of breath. For who should Angel be meeting with, but Buffy. And if that wasn't bad enough, the couple were actually kissing.

"I'm gonna kill him," Xander stepped away from the window. "I can't believe she—"

"Xander," Willow rested her hand against his right arm. "We should talk to her first. Ask her what's going on. Maybe he's not evil anymore…"

"They're making with the smoochies," Xander pointed at the window in frustration. "How long do you think he's gonna 'remain' cured. I say we stake him now, and ask questions later."

"Willow's right," Tara placed her hand on his left arm. "We shouldn't rush into things…"

"You don't know him," Xander pointed out gruffly and stepped away from the two witches. "You don't know what he's capable of."

Willow instantly went to Tara's defence. "That just makes her more objective," Willow grasped Tara's hand.

"Fine," Xander fumed. "We'll assemble the gang. Tell 'em what we saw and confront her…"

"Like an intervention?" Tara frowned.

"Yeah," Xander confirmed.

"Those never really go well," Tara pointed out.

Willow had to agree there. It was gonna be a little too confrontational. But she didn't really see any other option here. "If we all promise to use 'I' statements…"

"I'm not promising anything," Xander interjected. "I'm going over to Cordy's to let her know, you guys get Oz, and we'll meet you back at the library."

"Maybe we should wait till tomorrow," Tara felt the need to suggest. Allowing Xander to confront Buffy in his current state of mind wasn't gonna do anyone any good.

"No way," Xander shook his head. "I wanna settle this tonight."

"What would be the point?" Tara insisted. "It's late, and we're all tired."

Willow agreed with Tara. "She's right," Willow reached for Xander and grasped his free hand. She then used the trick Tara had taught her and released a little bit of her own energy, doing her best to calm the guy down.

Xander sighed in frustration. He didn't know why, but he suddenly felt as if the wind had been knocked out of his sails. Maybe the girls were right. It couldn't hurt to wait till the morning. Besides, it'd give him some time to think about what to say. And he had quite a 'lot' to say.

"Fine," he took a step away from Willow and headed off.

Willow frowned and squeezed Tara's hand as they walked off as well. "I can't believe she didn't tell me. Why would Buffy keep this a secret…?"

"Why do you think," Tara pointed out softly. "She's probably scared about how you'd all react."

"Because she knows what she's doing is wrong," Willow sighed.

"She loves him," Tara reminded her. "Love has a funny way of clouding your judgement."

"That means he really could be evil," Willow glanced at Tara. "What if she wants him to be cured so badly that she's being fooled? What if he hurts her? We should go back," she stopped in her tracks. "What if all Angel wanted was the glove and he's using Buffy to get to it? What if there's no Lagos demon out there, only Angel? He's gonna kill her…"

"Will," Tara held her hand firm, preventing the girl from running back to the mansion. "She's a Slayer. I'm sure she'll be okay."

Willow's sighed. "But I'm still worried…"

"Want me to talk to her?" Tara suggested. "I can wait at her place…"

"I'll come with you," Willow stated, instantly warming to the idea.

Tara stopped walking and gave Willow a loving smile. "Better not Sweetie," she said softly.

"Why not?" Willow frowned.

"I'm the only one who doesn't know Angel," Tara reminded her. "Buffy might react better to someone who's objective. Not that you can't be," she reassured instantly, "but…maybe you're too, uh…close to the matter…"

Willow sighed. Once again, Tara was right. "Okay," she agreed. "You talk with Buffy—let her know what Xander's got planned. But don't forget to call me after," she smiled. "I wanna know what happened."

"No problem," Tara smiled back and pressed a gentle kiss against Willow's cheek.

***

Tara knocked nervously on Buffy's front door. Of all the Scoobies, Buffy was the one she'd spent the least amount of time with.

Joyce Summers opened the door with a smile.

"H-hello Mrs. S-Summers," Tara smiled. "Is B-B-Buffy here?"

"Not yet," Joyce took a step back and motioned for Tara to come inside. "She should be back soon though. You're welcome to wait inside."

"Thank you," Tara smiled and followed the woman into the living room.

"Take a seat," Joyce gestured towards the couch.

Tara did as she was told and smiled nervously as Joyce sat down on the couch next to her.

"Buffy tells me you attend the local college?" Joyce ventured.

Tara nodded. "R-r-right," she smiled.

Joyce smiled back politely. "Oh," she stood up. "Can I get you something to drink?"

Tara wasn't really thirsty, but she figured that getting her a drink would kill at least a minute or two of small talk.

"Water?" she smiled at Joyce.

Joyce nodded. "You sure you wouldn't like a soda instead? We've got Coke, Pepsi, grape, orange…"

"Orange," Tara accepted.

"Okay," Joyce smiled again, before heading over to the kitchen.

Tara let out a sigh and took a deep breath. She was never comfortable around new people. No matter how nice they were.

"Here you go," Joyce came back a few minutes later.

"Thank you," Tara took the glass with a smile.

"So," Joyce ventured as she sat back down, "how are you finding your studies?"

Tara took a small sip of her orange soda. "I'm really enjoying them," she said softly. "C-c-college is a l-l-lot better than high school."

Just then, the front door slammed shut and Buffy marched in.

"Buffy," Tara called out the Slayer's name.

Buffy stopped on her way to the stairs, surprised to hear Tara's voice. What was Tara doing here?

"Tara?" she stepped into the living room.

Joyce stood up. "I'll leave you two alone," she smiled at both Tara and Buffy as she exited the room.

"Thanks Mom," Buffy acknowledged before taking a seat on the couch. "So," she turned to look at Tara. "What's up?"

"Hey Buffy," Tara smiled nervously and took a sip of her soda.

Buffy frowned, sensing her nervousness. "What's wrong?" she questioned. "Something happen? You didn't find Lagos did you? No one's hurt are they?"

"Oh no," Tara instantly shook her head. "Nothing like that."

"Then what?" Buffy prompted impatiently. She was more than a little frustrated after her meeting with Angel and wasn't in the mood for guessing games.

Tara sighed and took a deep breath. She then stalled some more by lifting the glass to her lips for another mouthful of orange soda.

"Tara," Buffy prodded, her patience wearing a little thin.

Tara sighed and met Buffy's gaze sheepishly. "Sorry," she smiled ruefully.

"What's wrong Tara?" Buffy prodded again.

"We saw you," she began softly, staring down at the glass in her hands. "Me, Willow, and uh…and Xander."

"Saw me what?" Buffy frowned.

Tara stalled again as she sipped her soda. "We know," she tentatively met Buffy's gaze. "We were chasing a lead on the glove and we saw you…"

Buffy still wasn't quite following. "Saw me what!?"

"We s-s-s-saw you k-k-k-k-kissing Angel," Tara whispered, moving her gaze back down to the drink in her hands.

Buffy's jaw fell open in shock. A second later her shock turned to outrage. "You were spying on me?"

"N-n-n-n-n-no," Tara shook her head. "W-w-w-w-we, uh…w-w-w-w-we were, uh…f-f-f-following A-A-Angel and then we s-s-s-s-saw you. We d-d-d-d-didn't mean to spy. We were just c-c-c-concerned…"

Buffy instantly regretted her outburst. She hadn't meant to upset Tara so much that the girl reverted to nervous stammering. "I'm sorry," she gave her a sheepish smile.

Tara smiled back. "It's okay," she said softly.

"So you know, huh?" Buffy continued. "Where's the rest of the gang?"

"At home," Tara smiled.

"Oh," Buffy frowned. "So why are you here?"

"I'm the uh, ob-objective spokesperson," Tara explained. "Xander was pretty upset. Willow too. But, uh…we managed to stop Xander f-f-from going after Angel. He's rounding the gang up. They're gonna confront you in the library tomorrow morning."

Buffy was stunned. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. "You serious?"

"Uh huh," Tara confirmed. "I'm sorry," she insisted. "But it was the only way…"

"It's okay," Buffy said gently, before a frown marred her face. "They must hate me huh?"

Tara set down her glass on the table and briefly touched Buffy's knee in reassurance.

"Not really," she said softly. "Xander's mad, but he doesn't hate you. And Will…well, she's upset that you didn't tell her. That you kept it a secret…"

Buffy sighed. "I didn't mean to," she looked at Tara appealingly. "It's just…when he came back, I, uh…I didn't know if he was evil or…or…I looked after him. And I kept meaning to say something, but…"

"You were afraid of their reaction."

Buffy smiled at the girl's accuracy. "Right."

"So he's not evil?" Tara continued, knowing that was the first thing Willow was going to ask her.

"No," Buffy shook her head. "He even found the glove for us. He's holding on to it to make sure it doesn't get into the wrong hands."

"You sure it's safe with him?" Tara had to ask.

Buffy nodded. "Of course."

"So you two didn't, uh…?" Tara blushed.

"Get physical," Buffy supplied with a chuckle. She shook her head off Tara's nod. "No. The kiss was an accident."

"Oh," Tara frowned. "Accident?"

Buffy looked at Tara sheepishly. "I know how that sounds," she ventured. "But believe me…it really was an accident. I've got no intention of going down that road again. It's just…"

"You still love him," Tara smiled knowingly.

Buffy sighed. "I know it's wrong," she shook her head in frustration. "And we can never have a future. And I know he tried to kill all my friends. He tortured Giles. Killed Ms. Calendar…but that wasn't really him, you know? But it was all my fault. If we hadn't…"

"It's okay," Tara reached for her knee again. "You were following your heart. There's nothing wrong with that."

"Except when you're the Slayer and your boyfriend's a blood sucking fiend," Buffy retorted lightly.

Tara smiled. "It'll be okay," she reassured. "They're just gonna need time."

Buffy sighed. "You're right. Any chance in hoping a whole night'll be enough?"

Tara chuckled softly. "You worried about the intervention?"

"Maybe I'll just avoid the library," Buffy suggested. "In fact, why not avoid the whole school? Maybe move to LA again…?"

"You can't run forever," Tara smiled indulgently.

"I can try," Buffy quipped.

Tara merely smiled.

Buffy smiled back. "Okay," she sighed. "I guess running away's out of the question."

"If you want," Tara offered shyly, "I, uh…I can meet you here in the morning. You don't have to go alone. I can even show you a really good relaxation technique. It'll help you stay calm."

Buffy smiled at Tara gratefully, finding herself warming to the girl. Why was it that they never spent more time together? She'd definitely have to do something about that.

"You'd do that for me?" she asked Tara softly.

"Of course," Tara smiled.

"Thanks Tara," Buffy reached for her hands and squeezed them gently. "I mean it."

"You're welcome," Tara acknowledged with a smile. "Anyway," she stood up. "It's g-g-getting late. I should go…"

"Sure," Buffy stood up as well. "You gonna be right getting home?" she followed her to the door.

"Yeah," Tara reached into her jeans and pulled out a cross from one pocket and a stake from the other.

Buffy smiled.

"I'll see you in the morning," Tara continued. "Is 7am too early? We can go over the relaxation technique before we leave."

Buffy grinned. She wasn't too sure about meditating, but she figured it couldn't hurt. She was gonna need all the help she could get.

"Sounds good," she reached for the door and opened it.

"Great," Tara flashed her a huge smile, before heading out.

***

The first thing Tara did when she got back to her dorm was dial Willow's number.

"Hey Will," she greeted.

"Tara," Willow said her name with a grin. She was pleased to finally be hearing from her. "How'd it go?"

"It was good," Tara ventured. "And before you ask, no, Angel's not evil. He's got the glove and he's looking after it. As for the kiss, Buffy swears it was an accident. She's not looking to fall back on old habits. But she is worried about what you all think."

"So Angel's cured?"

"Yeah," Tara confirmed. "And Buffy's real sorry she didn't tell you," she said softly, knowing exactly what Willow was thinking.

Willow sighed into the phone. "She's my best friend…"

"She was just scared," Tara insisted. "Anyway," she changed the subject, not wanting Willow to dwell on something negative right before bedtime. "I'm gonna meet her in the morning. Might be better if she didn't show up to the library alone."

"Good idea," Willow noted. "Tara," she ventured after a moment of silence.

"Yeah?"

"Thanks for being here," Willow began softly, "for helping…"

"It's okay," Tara said modestly. "She's my friend too you know. At least I want her to be."

Willow smiled at this. "Thanks Tara," she insisted.

Tara smiled. "Goodnight Will."

"Night," Willow returned, before hanging up the phone.

***

Tara and Buffy turned to look at one another as they reached the library the next morning. This was it.

"Good luck," Tara whispered and gave Buffy an encouraging smile.

"Thanks," Buffy sighed.

And with that, she pushed on the door and entered the library. Giles was standing up near the steps, while Xander, Cordelia, Oz and Willow were seated at the centre table. Each one of them looked like they'd just been to a funeral.

"What's with all the tragedy masks?" Buffy quipped, choosing to start the mood off on a light note. She was still feeling a little buzzed from the meditation Tara had walked her though this morning.

"Better take a seat, Buffy," Giles ventured towards a nearby chair.

In response, Xander stood up and nudged his chair to the head of the table, and moved to stand next to Cordelia. He wasn't pleased to see Buffy show up with Tara in tow. Ten to one the witch had given the Slayer a heads up.

He gave her a disapproving look, which Tara shrugged off. She'd known he was gonna be upset with her, but she'd had no other choice. She then turned to look at Willow, who motioned her over.

Tara smiled softly at Willow and moved to stand behind her. She placed her hand against Willow's left shoulder and gave her a gentle squeeze. Willow looked up at Tara and smiled, lifting her right hand to briefly cover Tara's in greeting.

"What's going on?" Buffy ventured lightly as she took a seat.

"I think you know," Xander frowned, nodding his head towards Tara and glaring at her pointedly.

Willow frowned at Xander and moved her hand back up to cover Tara's. She opened her mouth to object to his behaviour, but Tara pre-empted her.

"D-d-d-don't," Tara stood up for herself, her confidence rising as Willow gently squeezed her hand in a show of support. "I j-j-just told her what to expect. I-it was only fair…"

"Yeah," Buffy defended. "Don't put this on Tara."

"No," Giles agreed. "We're putting this on you, Buffy. You, uh…you lied to us."

Buffy sighed and looked to the ground. She'd known it was gonna go like this…

Willow instantly moved to clarify Giles' statement. She'd spoken to everyone about not using negative words. Why hadn't they listened?

"Nobody's here to blame you, Buffy," she said softly. "But this is serious. You need help."

"It's not what you think," Buffy looked up at Willow appealingly.

"Hope not," Xander retorted snidely. "Because I think you're harbouring a vicious killer."

Buffy looked to Xander sadly, unable to believe his callousness. Just as well she was still feeling the effects of the meditation.

"This isn't about attacking Buffy," Willow frowned at Xander. "Remember, 'I' statements only. 'I feel angry. I feel worried.'"

"Fine," Cordelia snapped. "Here's one. 'I feel worried…' about me! Last time around, Angel barely laid a hand on Buffy. He was 'way' more interested in killing her friends."

"But he's better now," Buffy protested.

"Better for how long, Buffy?" Xander shook his head disapprovingly. "I mean, did you even think about that?"

She'd done her best to remain calm, but Xander was just pushing it. "I'm sorry," she appealed to Tara, apologising for not seeing this through like she'd promised her this morning. "But I won't stand for this," she turned back to face Xander. "I don't need an intervention here…"

And with that she turned to leave.

"Oh, don't you?" Giles interjected.

Buffy sighed and turned to face him.

"You must've known it was wrong seeing Angel," he continued, "or you wouldn't have hidden it from all of us."

Tara looked down at Willow and squeezed her shoulder gently. She knew Giles had just voiced her own thoughts, and she could feel the girl's mood shifting.

"I was going to tell you," Buffy said defensively. "I was," she insisted. "I-it was just that I…I didn't know why he came back. I just wanted to wait—"

"For what?" Xander interjected. "For Angel to go psycho again the next time you give him a happy?"

Buffy could feel her anger rising. "I'm not going to…" she raised her voice and lifted a hand in frustration. "We're not together like that."

"But you were kissing him," Oz pointed out.

'Et tu Brute?' Willow gave Oz a look. Why couldn't everyone play nice? No one was using positive statements.

Tara looked at Oz as well, and then down at Willow. She released a little more of her energy for support.

Willow squeezed Tara's hand in appreciation, before glancing at Buffy with a worried look in her eye. She hoped the Slayer wasn't gonna take Oz's words the wrong way.

Buffy frowned at Oz, and then at Xander. "That's right," she raised her voice, "you were spying. What gives you the right—?"

"What gives you the right to suck face with your demon lover again?" Cordelia interjected caustically.

"It was an accident," Buffy retorted defensively.

"What," Xander clenched a fist in frustration, "you just tripped and fell on his lips?"

"It was wrong, okay?" Buffy relented. "I know that, and I know it can't happen again. But you guys have to believe me. I would never put you in any danger. If I thought for a second that Angel was going to hurt anyone…"

"You would stop him?" Xander spat out menacingly. "Like you did last time with Ms. Calendar?"

Buffy's eyes widened. She hadn't expected Xander to be quite so mean spirited.

Willow could see it was time to speak up. Once again she frowned at Xander, before looking towards Buffy appealingly.

"Buffy," she began nervously, not wanting to make the situation worse, "I, uh…I feel that when it comes to Angel, you can't see straight. And that's why we're…we're all gonna help you face this."

"But he's better now," Buffy insisted. "I swear. Look, you guys, he's the one that found the glove. H-he's keeping it safe for us in the mansion."

"Right!" Xander spread his arms wide in exasperation. "Great plan," he continued sarcastically. "Leave tons of firepower with the scary guy, and then leave us to clean up the mess."

With that, he moved towards the exit. He'd done enough talking for one day. It was daylight now, which meant he had a pretty good shot at catching Angel off guard.

Sensing Xander's plan, Buffy grabbed him by the arm and spun him around to face her.

"You would just love an excuse to hurt him," she spat out, "wouldn't you?"

"I don't need an excuse," Xander retorted. "I think lots of dead people actually constitutes a reason."

"Right," Buffy furrowed her brow. "This is all nobility. This has nothing to do with jealousy."

Xander opened his mouth to respond, but Cordelia pre empted him.

"Hello?" she interjected haughtily. "Miss Not-Over-Yourself-Yet?"

Buffy shook her head in frustration and turned to face Cordelia. She didn't need this from her. "Don't you start with me," she threatened.

Cordelia looked up at Giles for some support, as did Willow. This wasn't going how she'd planned. Why wasn't anyone doing the 'I' statements?

"Giles," Willow appealed, "no one's doing the 'I' statements!"

Tara once again released a little of her energy to relax Willow, as she too looked at Giles for support. He was the only grownup around here. If he couldn't stop this from getting out of hand, then who could?

"That's enough!" Giles finally stepped in. "Everybody. Now, Buffy knows our concerns, and her actions, however ill advised, can be understood. Our…priority right now is to retrieve the 'Glove of Myhnegon' and try to destroy it. Now, all of you, back to class."

Tara looked down at Willow and squeezed her shoulder, inviting her to stand up. Willow complied and reached for Tara's hand as she turned around to face her. Meanwhile, Xander and Cordelia were already piling out of the library.

Oz stood up as well, nodded at Tara in acknowledgement, and then nodded at Willow, before he too left the room. With that, Tara laced her fingers with Willow's and took a few steps towards Buffy. Willow kept her gaze on the floor as Tara reached her free hand up to Buffy's shoulder.

"Bye," she gave her a warm smile, "and, uh…good luck," she nodded over towards Giles' office. She knew that Giles wasn't done with her yet, despite the way he'd kept things from getting out of hand. Giles was a 'true' gentleman. He was gonna discipline his Slayer in private.

"Thanks," Buffy smiled at Tara.

Once the two witches had left, Buffy turned around and headed into Giles' office.

"Thanks for the bail in there," she ventured nervously.

Giles sighed and unbuttoned his vest, not bothering to turn around in greeting.

"I know this is a lot to absorb," Buffy continued, oblivious to her Watcher's silent anger. "But Angel 'did' find the glove, and that 'was' good…"

"Be quiet!" Giles finally turned around. He was done being polite. "I won't remind you that the fate of the world often lies with the Slayer," he told her steadily but firmly. "What would be the point? Nor shall I remind you that you've jeopardised the lives of all that you hold dear by harbouring a known murderer. But sadly, I must remind you that Angel tortured me…for hours…for pleasure. You should have told me he was alive. You didn't. You have no respect for me, or the job I perform."

Having said his piece, Giles turned around and sat down at his desk in quiet meditation.

Buffy lowered her gaze to the floor in shame. She hated herself at this moment. Just as much as the rest of the gang was probably hating her. Including Willow. With a sigh, she turned to leave, hoping to catch up with Willow while Tara was still with her.

***

"I can't believe Xander," Willow glanced up at Tara as they reached her locker.

Tara smiled and shook her head while Willow struggled with the combination. "It's okay," she reassured. "I was expecting it."

Willow beamed. "You know, I'm real proud of you. The way you stood up for yourself."

Tara blushed. "I guess I must've gotten something from my gran," she said modestly. "My mom was never… she always let my dad walk all over her. And in the end…I guess it killed her. My gran was the opposite. Whenever I'd go to visit, she'd always have a new spell for me to learn, even though grandad disapproved. Theirs was an arranged marriage…just like my mom's, but my gran never let it get to her."

Willow's eyes widened. "I never knew that. They still do arranged marriages? They haven't arranged you to be married have they?"

Tara chuckled. "If I'd stuck around, I'm sure they would have. My father was the son of my grandfather's best friend. They owned neighbouring farms and the marriage was more of a merger than anything else. To them, us women weren't really much more than cattle."

"Why'd your mom put up with it?" Willow asked curiously.

"Because she was weak," Tara sighed. 'That and the family curse…'

"But not your gran?" Willow prompted.

Tara nodded. "I think it's because she found love."

"Love?" Willow was confused. "You mean she actually fell in love with your grandfather?"

Tara shook her head. "Not exactly." Off Willow's puzzled frown she quickly clarified her comment. "My, uh…grandmother had a very, uh… special, uh…friend…since high school."

Willow's jaw dropped. "Your gran had an affair!? And she never got caught…?"

Tara grinned. "Her friend was another woman…a fellow Wiccan. And my grandfather was too afraid to ask what kind of spells they did alone. He's a very devout Christian and thinks all magick is evil. And my grandmother always had the good sense to use that in her favour. Had him running scared she'd turn him into a toad or something…"

"Oh gods," Willow chuckled. "You're gran sounds like one hell of a woman. I'd love to meet her."

Tara sighed sadly. "Yeah? Well, she passed away a few years ago. But, if you like, we can take a trip to her farm one weekend. She died a year after my grandfather, and she made sure the farmstead was left to her, uh…friend…special means you know. Auntie Gail as I call her is seventy-eight years old and still going strong. I'm sure she'd love to meet you. We can even go horseback riding—"

"H-h-horses?" Willow stammered nervously. "Like…big tall teeth that could take your arm off-horses?"

Tara chuckled good naturedly. "Well sure, I learned to ride when I was a kid. I-it's fun. And by the way, most horses don't like arm very much…"

Willow gave Tara a sheepish look, feeling a little embarrassed about her childish fear. "I had a bad birthday party pony thing when I was four," she explained. "I-I look at horses and I see…really big ponies."

Tara smiled at Willow adoringly. She was so cute. She lifted her hand lovingly to Willow's cheek. "You should ride with me some time. I guarantee safety and fun."

Willow smiled and sighed when Tara's hand left her cheek. The girl really did make her feel safe.

"Well," she grinned flirtatiously, placing both her hands on Tara's hips and pulling her closer. She momentarily forgot they were both in public and leaned her forehead against Tara's. "If you promise you'll look after me," she whispered, moving her hands down to the girl's ass and squeezing boldly.

Tara shuddered and wrapped her own arms around Willow's waist. She then moved to capture those sensuous lips of hers, but out of the corner of her eye she spotted Buffy heading towards them.

"Buffy," she whispered instead and pulled away.

Willow frowned and moved her hands up against Tara's back. "That wasn't the response I was hoping for—"

Tara shook her head and once again said her friend's name. "Buffy" she called out to the Slayer who was now standing right behind Willow.

"Oh," Willow turned around nervously. "B-b-buffy," she stammered, wondering how much the girl had seen.

"Hey," the Slayer greeted the two witches, attributing their nervousness to the pre-existing tension she was responsible for.

"Hey," Willow glanced at the floor uncomfortably, before moving her attention to the inside of her locker.

"So," Buffy ventured as Willow began to gather her stuff. "On a scale of one to a million, how much are you hating me right now?"

Willow exhaled in relief, but didn't turn around. She was glad Buffy hadn't actually seen what she and Tara were doing. And it quickly dawned on her how much of a hypocrite she was being. What gave her the right to be upset with Buffy, when she still hadn't told her about her own secret?

"Zero," she glanced briefly at Buffy and smiled weakly. "You were scared," Willow continued as she zipped her backpack closed. "You kept a secret, you know?" She placed the bag on her shoulders and closed her locker. "That's-it's-it's okay," Willow gave Tara a sheepish smile as they began to walk off in the direction of her first class. "I mean, secrets aren't bad. You know, they're normal. They're better than normal. They're good. Secrets are good. Must be a reason why we keep them, right?"

Tara looked at Willow with bemusement. However, she couldn't help but think how close to home her words were. If only Willow knew about her secret…

"Yeah," Buffy ventured, not sure what to make of Willow's words. At least she didn't seem mad at her. "I guess…" she looked at Tara for clarification.

Tara smiled and nodded her head. "Yeah," she reached out for Willow's hand and laced their fingers together. "Some secrets are good…necessary…"

Willow squeezed Tara's hand before changing the subject. "So," she finally looked at Buffy. "Are you going to the Bronze tonight, or, uh…are you gonna sneak away for a not-so-secret rendezvous with Angel?"

"None of the above," Buffy sighed. "I'm gonna try and kill this Lagos guy. Peace offering to Giles."

Willow nodded and gave her a weak smile.

"Well," Tara ventured, "Angel has the glove now, right?"

"Yup," Buffy nodded her head. "But Lagos doesn't know that. I figure sooner or later he's bound to show up at the crypt looking for it."

Tara smiled as she realised what the girl's plan was.

Willow smiled too, her thoughts matching Tara's. "Ah," she grinned, "but instead, he finds a Buffy in a not-so-good mood."

"That's my brilliant plan," Buffy confirmed.

"And that's my exit," Tara stopped walking and pointed to the end of the hall. "I better get to class," she let go of Willow's hand.

"Okay," Buffy gave her a warm smile. "And Tara," she reached out and wrapped her arms around the girl for a brief hug. "Thanks for everything," she smiled as she pulled away.

Tara smiled back before turning to embrace Willow. She moved to kiss the girl's cheek as well, but pulled back. She didn't want to embarrass her.

Willow noticed Tara's hesitation and instantly felt awful. Maybe it was time she developed a backbone…?

"Bye Tara," she closed the gap between them and placed a brief kiss against her cheek. "I'll see you this afternoon," she smiled.

Tara smiled back. Willow was definitely growing up…

***

That afternoon, Buffy headed to the nearest pay phone and dialled Faith's number. It was time to head out to the Restfield Cemetery, and she figured she could use a bit of Slayer backup. The phone rang off the hook, so she dialled again, thinking maybe Faith had been in the bathroom or something.

She let it ring off one more time, before deciding the girl wasn't at home. Still feeling the need for a bit of backup, she decided to call Willow and Tara instead. Two witches were almost as good as one Slayer.

What she didn't know, was that Faith was currently at the Bronze. Her new Watcher had put it in her head that the Scoobies were keeping her at a distance.

***

A little while later, at the Restfield Cemetery, Buffy and Tara were sitting on a stone bench outside of the Von Hauptman family crypt, while Willow was pacing in front of them. She was a little nervous as she contemplated a revelation.

Tara smiled at Willow adoringly as she broke the nervous tension. "Um," she turned to face Buffy, "not to downplay our own slaying abilities, which in some circles are considered formidable, but shouldn't Faith be here?"

"Yeah," Willow stopped her pacing and glanced down at Buffy.

"I tried calling," Buffy explained, "but no one was home. Look, if you guys are feeling any demon-o-phobia, please, splitting is totally an option. You're not the ones in trouble with Giles."

"That's true," Willow began pacing again.

"How long do you think he can stay angry at me, anyway?" Buffy questioned the two witches.

"The emotional marathon man?" Willow shrugged.

"Yeah," Buffy sighed. "I can't really blame him. It's weird, though. Now that my secret…Angel, is all out in the open…I feel better.

Willow instantly stopped her pacing and gave Tara a look.

Tara smiled back up at her encouragingly.

"Well, sure you do," Willow shifted her gaze to Buffy. "This big burden's been lifted. I mean, keeping secrets is a lot of work," she paused, realising what she'd said. "One could hypothetically imagine," she covered.

Tara forced a smile. 'If only she knew how hard it's been keeping 'my' secret…'

"You have no idea," Buffy agreed.

Willow chuckled nervously. "None whatsoever," she sat down next to Buffy. "Can I ask you a question?" she took a deep breath. Off Buffy's nod, she looked over at Tara for support. Tara smiled back and nodded her head encouragingly.

"When you were with Angel," Willow looked back at Buffy, "and nobody knew about it. Did that make it feel, you know…sexier somehow?"

Tara chuckled.

"Not really," Buffy frowned. "It's too much pressure. After a while, it even makes the fun parts…not so fun."

Willow sighed and looked at Tara in disappointment. "Oh…"

Buffy frowned as she began to wonder about Willow's line of questioning. "What makes you think all this secret stuff is sexy, anyway?"

Willow blushed and gazed at the floor nervously. "Nothing," she stood up defensively and began pacing again. "I'm just wondering. Gotta keep asking the big old questions when you're blessed with this girl's thirst for knowledge and…"

Tara knew Willow was stalling. "Willow," she prompted, giving the girl a warm smile.

"Okay," Willow sighed in resignation. "There's something I have to tell you," she timidly met Buffy's glance.

"What?" Buffy smiled, her curiosity peaking.

"This will make me feel better, right?" She looked at Tara, but didn't wait for an answer. "You know," she continued nervously. "I always consider myself a good person. Floss, do my homework, never cheat. But lately, and please don't judge me on this, but I, uh want you to know that…that…"

Willow broke off her rambling as she spied Lagos approaching Tara and Buffy.

"There's a demon behind you," she pointed.

Tara instantly stood up and ran straight for Willow's side. Buffy on the other hand, looked behind her, kicked her legs up and spun herself around, launching a running attack on the demon.

Willow and Tara looked on in concern as the Slayer and Lagos entered their sparring match. They both wanted to do something to help, but were unsure of what would be the most helpful. Besides, Buffy was definitely holding her own, and before long she was using the demon's very own battle-axe against him.

"Yes!" Willow raised her fist in the air when the demon's head rolled off and landed a few feet away from them. Realising how she looked, Willow glanced sheepishly at Tara and folded her arms over her chest.

Tara chuckled and wrapped an arm around the girl's waist. She loved it when Willow got excited. She was just so cute.

"Sorry about that," Buffy moved back to stand in front of the two witches. "So," she met Willow's gaze, "what were you saying?"

Willow looked at Tara and then at Buffy. After all the excitement, her momentum had been broken. She no longer felt up to a revelation. "Oh, I…I…I opened my SAT test book five minutes early."

Buffy gave Willow a blank look as Tara chuckled softly.

"Just doesn't seem important now, does it?" Willow smiled sheepishly.

"You're secret's safe with me," Buffy smiled. "Come on," she glanced down at Lagos' body, "lets go bring Giles some happiness."

Willow looked at Tara as Buffy began walking on ahead of them. "I know," she whispered ruefully. "Just call me Chicken…"

"It's okay," Tara whispered back reassuringly.

"I, uh…I wanna tell her Tara," Willow whispered. "I feel like such a hypocrite…"

"Then tell her," Tara encouraged softly, feeling like a hypocrite herself.

"I can't," Willow sighed.

Tara smiled knowingly. "You want me to test the waters?" she suggested. "Come out to her first…?"

Willow instantly warmed to the suggestion. "You-you'd do that?"

"Of course," Tara smiled.

Willow grinned. "You're the best," she whispered into her ear.

Tara smiled.

"You guys coming?" Buffy turned around, wondering why the two witches had lagged behind.

"Come on," Tara squeezed Willow's hand and nodded towards Buffy. "We don't have to make any revelations tonight."

"Okay," Willow smiled at Tara. "We're coming," she called out.

***

"Giles is gonna be psyched that we showed up stuffy old Mrs. Post," Buffy grinned as they entered the library.

Her grin quickly turned sour when she noticed the paramedics. Willow and Tara frowned also and rushed towards Giles' who was lying on his back on a stretcher.

"Oh my God," Buffy cried as she reached Giles' side. "What happened?" she turned to the paramedic who was phoning the accident in to Sunnydale Medical. "Giles," she glanced back down in worry. "What happened?" she repeated her question.

"…blunt object head trauma," the paramedic spoke into the CB. "Notify ER, we're bringing him in."

"What happened?" Buffy asked him again.

"No time for this," the paramedic shook his head and began to wheel Giles out of the library.

"Wait…" Giles begged.

The paramedic paused.

"Buffy," Giles continued weakly, "you must…must destroy the glove."

The paramedic frowned. "You want him to live?" he glanced at Buffy. "Get out of the way."

Buffy sighed.

"Use…Living…Flame…" Giles called out as the paramedics began wheeling him out again.

"Move!" The paramedic insisted.

With another sigh, Buffy finally stepped out of the way.

"What happened?" Buffy noticed Xander standing next to her.

"You're boyfriend's not as cured as you thought," he retorted.

"What makes you think that Angel had anything to do with this?"

"We saw what you saw," Xander motioned towards Giles' office.

"So you just assume?" Buffy frowned.

"I didn't," he shook his head. "Faith did."

Willow and Tara glanced at each other in concern. They both knew what Faith was capable of.

"What did you tell her?" Buffy demanded of Xander.

"Only what everyone knows," Xander shrugged. "She's a big girl. Came to her own conclusions."

Buffy was fuming. "How much of a head start does she have?"

"Ten minutes," Xander frowned.

"Willow, Tara," she glanced at the two witches. "Go through Giles' research. Figure out how to destroy the glove."

She then turned towards Xander and glared at him disapprovingly, before exiting the room. She needed to stop Faith before it was too late.

Xander moved to make a retort at Buffy's back, but Willow pre-empted him. "Shut up and help us," she said sternly.

Tara merely frowned at him, before moving to follow Willow into Giles' office.

Xander sighed in resignation and followed the two witches. He knew when he was beat.

***

A few minutes later, Willow and Tara were mixing and grinding the final ingredients for the spell to invoke Living Flame.

"Think you've got it?" Xander ventured.

"Well," Tara looked at Willow and sighed. Neither of them had done this spell before. "It's either the catalyst for Living Flame or just some really smelly sand."

Willow frowned. "We'll have to test this…"

"I'll double check," Xander offered and picked up the book.

Willow and Tara looked up as Xander let out a sharp exhalation of breath.

"What?" Willow prompted.

"I know what the glove does," he shoved the book between the two witches.

Willow and Tara glanced at each other in horror as they finished reading the passage.

"There's no time to test this," Tara grabbed an empty plastic bag and opened it.

Xander nodded and blew out the candles on the table, while Willow picked up the bowl and poured the mixture into the plastic bag. Tara sealed it up, and they all raced out of the library.

***

When they arrived at the mansion, they instantly noticed Gwendolyn Post propped up against the wall in a daze, and Angel lying face down a few feet away from her. Willow looked at Tara and frowned, before rushing to the Watcher's side. Apparently Buffy had been wrong about Angel after all…

"The glove!" Gwendolyn pointed. "It's in the trunk."

"We'll get it," Xander reassured.

The Watcher shook her head. "Help Faith," she instructed, pointing outside to the atrium.

Xander nodded and rushed outside as Willow and Tara helped the Watcher up.

Xander looked at the two Slayers sparring and moved to intercede. "What are you…? Stop! Guys, listen!"

Disgruntled by his imposition, Faith grabbed his shirt and threw him into the nearby lamppost.

Tara and Willow glanced at each other as Xander bounced off the lamppost and hit the stone walkway.

"Go," Willow nodded, knowing Tara could appeal to the Slayers better than she could.

"Okay," Tara let go of her arm. "Will you be alright?" she directed at the Watcher.

"Help Faith," The Watcher instructed. "We'll be fine."

With that, Tara headed outside to see if she could talk some sense into the two Slayers.

Gwendolyn Post instantly let go of Willow's arm and made a beeline for the nearby trunk; opening it and unwrapping the glove.

Willow watched in confusion as Gwendolyn Post reverently cradled the glove in her hands.

"Finally," the Watcher smiled wickedly, before swinging the glove around and smacking Willow in the face, knocking her to the ground. She then reverently put the glove onto her right arm.

As Tara reached the atrium, she swung around at the sound of a thump. Her eyes widened when she noticed Gwendolyn Post was wearing the glove and reciting the words to invoke its power…

"Taou huogan maqachte milegaing!"

As the Watcher said the Gaelic spell, Tara moved her gaze around the room to find Willow, and let out a gasp when she noticed her lying face down on the ground.

"Willow!" She called out in distress, but it was too late. Gwendolyn Post had already invoked the spell and thunder and lightening was crashing through the ceiling, making it difficult for her to move without fear of getting hit. That wasn't gonna stop her though. Willow was hurt.

With that, she made a bolt for Willow's side but Gwendolyn Post noticed the movement and swung her hand out, effectively clothes-lining Tara to the ground.

The two Slayers stopped their fighting as the thunder and lightning became apparent to them.

"What's going on?" Faith stepped in through the atrium and frowned in confusion.

Gwendolyn Post lowered her arm and smiled maliciously at the Slayer. "Faith! A word of advice, you're an idiot." And with that, she returned her arm up into the sky.

Tara sat up and blinked her eyes.

"Taou freim!" Gwendolyn spoke, causing a bolt of energy to strike at the two Slayers.

Tara shuddered with fear as Buffy and Faith leaped out of harm's way. Her first thought was for Willow though, and she glanced over at the girl. She was pleased to see Willow picking herself up off the floor. 'At least she's okay…'

Gwendolyn also noticed Willow getting up. "Taou freim!" she repeated, spinning around and aiming the glove at the young witch.

"Willow!" Tara exclaimed and rushed towards the girl in a mad dash to save her.

Unfortunately, she wasn't fast enough. Angel however, was. He had regained consciousness a few moments ago and noticed the rogue Watcher's actions. So, thinking quickly, he rushed for Willow and threw her to the ground, covering her body with his.

Tara arrived at their side a few seconds later, trembling in shock. She placed her hand on Willow's back as Angel rolled off of her. This vampire had just saved Willow's life, and she would be forever grateful to him.

"Thank you," she whispered tearfully, before turning back to Willow and engulfing the girl in her arms.

Willow closed her eyes and hugged Tara tight, resting her head against her shoulder. Both girls were trembling with emotion.

Meanwhile, Gwendolyn Post had returned her attention to the two Slayers.

"Can you draw her fire?" Buffy asked Faith.

"You bet I can," Faith nodded.

"Go do it!"

With that, Faith ran into the mansion, as Buffy searched around for a weapon. She quickly settled on a large glass shard lying on the walkway, before running back inside.

"There's nothing you can do to me now," Gwendolyn Post grinned at Faith, who was using the nearby couch for cover. "I have the glove. With the glove comes power."

"I'm getting that," Buffy interjected from behind her.

Gwendolyn Post turned around in surprise.

With specific purpose, Buffy threw the glass shard and severed Gwendolyn's upper arm, ripping the glove from her body. This caused the glove to direct its energy bolt at herself instead of the Slayer.

Everyone in the room watched with horror. Lightning enveloped the rogue Watcher and she screamed in pain as she gradually disintegrated.

From outside, Xander got up and headed into the mansion. Faith got up from behind the couch, while Angel headed over towards Buffy.

Willow and Tara stood up as well, but did not take their arms from around one another's waists.

The whole gang watched in silence as the glove opened up and released all that was left of Gwendolyn Post's body—her arm.

***

Willow and Tara walked home in pensive silence. They were both shaken up after what had happened—Tara in particular. The girl was holding onto Willow's waist as tightly as she could, almost as if she were afraid she'd disappear if she let go. When they finally arrived at Willow's, they stopped outside the front door as Willow unlocked it.

Tara gazed at Willow silently. She could have lost her tonight if Angel hadn't saved her. She didn't want to leave her alone. She opened her mouth to speak, but nothing came out. She was still in shock. Her whole body was trembling, and it was all she could do not to burst into tears.

As Willow turned around, she noted the look of distress in Tara's eyes. Feeling emotional herself, Willow blinked away a tear of her own, and wrapped her arms around Tara.

"Tara," she whispered against her neck. "I, uh…I know what we said about spending the night, but…would you…?"

"Mmm hmm," Tara mumbled tearfully, still finding it difficult to speak. There was no way she was leaving Willow alone tonight.

"Thank you," Willow whispered and pressed a soft kiss against Tara's cheek. "Come on," she smiled, "lets get inside."

Tara nodded through her tears as Willow turned around. She then wrapped her arms around the girl's waist from behind and kept them there as she followed her through the hallway and into the kitchen. She wasn't ready to let go—needing continuous proof that the girl was still alive and here with her.

"I'll make us some tea," Willow ventured, placing her arms around Tara's. She gently tried to lift them from around her waist, but the girl's hold remained firm. With a smile, Willow craned her neck and rubbed her cheek against Tara's.

Deciding to humour her, Willow went about slowly filling the kettle, finding a couple of mugs and grabbing some camomile tea from the cupboard, all with Tara's body draped around her from behind.

"Camomile," she explained as she placed the teabags in the mugs, "should calm us down…"

"Mmm hmm," Tara nuzzled Willow's neck dazedly, not fussed about the tea. All she cared about was Willow, and the fact that she could feel her in her arms—safe and alive.

Willow smiled and let out a pleased sigh. She couldn't help but be a little worried for her though. She'd never seen Tara in shock before. And while she loved the way the girl was holding onto her, it didn't cover the fact that Tara was in distress.

Once the kettle had boiled, she poured the water over the teabags and returned it back on its pedestal. She dunked the teabags a few times, before letting them sit. She then turned around in Tara's arms while she waited for the tea to brew in the hot water.

As soon as Willow turned around, Tara waisted no time in leaning over and capturing her lips. She moved her hands up to the girl's cheeks as she thrust her tongue deep into Willow's mouth, tasting her and proving to herself that the girl wasn't gone.

Willow placed her hands against Tara's back. She moved her own tongue to meet Tara's and trembled in her arms. She knew what Tara was doing, and a part of her needed this too.

However, she pulled away after a moment. If she kept kissing Tara, her rational side would soon give way to her hormones.

"Tea," she explained huskily to Tara, before turning around.

Tara whimpered from the loss, but instantly returned her arms around Willow's waist and rested her chin on the girl's shoulder.

With a smile, Willow grabbed a spoon and drained the tea bags against the side of the mug before dumping them in the garbage disposal.

"Lets take these to my room," Willow said as she picked up the mugs. She didn't wait for a response, knowing one wasn't forthcoming. Instead, she just headed towards her bedroom with Tara holding onto her from behind.

"Can you open it?" Willow asked Tara once they'd reached her room, seeing as how both her hands were full.

Without a word, Tara removed a hand from around Willow's waist and opened the door. She followed her into the room and flicked the nearby light switch.

"Thanks," Willow said as she placed the mugs on her desk. She then grasped Tara's hands, and turned around to face her. "You need to drink," she instructed gently. "The camomile will make you feel better."

Tara opened her mouth to protest, but something in Willow's gaze told her not to. Instead, she nodded reluctantly. 'I guess this is the 'Resolve Face' Xander told me about…'

With a smile, Willow let go of Tara's hands and picked up the mugs. She handed one to Tara and then motioned towards the bed.

They both sat down on the mattress and turned to face each other.

"Drink," Willow instructed, leading by example and lifting the mug to her own lips.

Tara nodded and did as she was told. After a few sips, she could feel her nerves easing off a little. Willow was right; the tea was a good idea. She still didn't feel up to talking though. So she continued to drink in silence.

Willow remained silent as well, letting the warm camomile work its way into her system. As she drank, she kept her eyes on Tara, noting the way she seemed to be slowly relaxing.

'Tara really cares for me,' she thought to herself. 'She's so shaken up. Gods, I am too. If anything ever happened to Tara…' Willow shuddered at the notion, and took a long sip of her tea, downing the last of it.

She noticed that Tara still had a fair bit of tea left. "Drink," she prompted with a smile as she got up and placed the empty mug on the table. "I'm gonna have a quick shower."

Tara frowned and shook her head. "Mngh," she mumbled in protest, not wanting to be away from Willow for that long.

Willow smiled warmly and sat back down on the bed. "I won't be long," she placed a hand on Tara's thigh. "I promise."

Tara pouted. "P-p-p-promise?" she whispered.

Willow's heart went out to Tara. The girl looked so vulnerable. "I promise Sweetie," she lifted her hands to the girl's cheeks and pressed a soft kiss against her lips. "Drink your tea. I'll be out by the time you're finished, okay?"

"Okay," Tara said in a really small voice.

With an encouraging smile, Willow gently kissed Tara's forehead and stood up. It didn't take her long to locate a nightshirt and a change of underwear, before heading into her en suite.

Tara took a sip of her tea as she watched Willow leave. This time however, the camomile wasn't enough to soothe her. Willow was no longer in the room. She needed Willow. Willow could've died today. She hadn't dreamt it had she? Angel really had rescued her? This wasn't just some grief-stricken fantasy where she only thought Willow had made it?

Tara stood up and placed her mug on the nearby desk. "W-W-Willow!" she called out the girl's name as she reached the bathroom door. "Are you in there?" she knocked gently. "You d-d-decent? C-can I come in?"

Willow looked down at herself. Her blouse was on the floor along with her jeans, leaving her dressed only in her bra and panties.

"I, uh, I'm…not exactly decent," Willow ventured. "But, uh, you can come in…if you want…" She'd heard the desperation in Tara's voice and knew the girl needed her.

With that, Tara opened the door and burst into the bathroom. She let out a huge sigh of relief when she spied Willow—alive and well.

"Willow!" she exclaimed, wrapping the girl in her arms, completely oblivious to her semi-nakedness. All she could think about was Willow's safety. The girl was alive. She was here. Angel had saved her. Willow wasn't gone.

Willow closed her eyes and shuddered as Tara's hands covered her bare back. In response, she lifted her own arms to Tara's back and held her tight. The girl was now crying against her shoulder and trembling.

"Oh Sweetie," Willow whispered, realising just how deep Tara's distress had become. "I'm okay. It's okay," she soothed, lifting a hand to stroke the girl's hair. "It's okay Tara, it's okay."

"You-you-you w-w-w-weren't there," Tara sobbed, allowing the tears to run free. "I-I-I c-c-c-c-coulda l-l-l-lost you," she was done with holding in her emotions.

"But you didn't," Willow reassured softly, pressing a kiss against the top of her head. "I'm right here Baby. I'm safe."

"S-s-safe," Tara stammered. "W-W-Willow…"

"Oh Tara," Willow continued stroking her hair. "It's okay," she repeated. "It's okay. Shhh Sweetie, it's okay."

As Tara continued to cry in her arms, Willow realised she wouldn't be getting a shower tonight.

"Come on," she whispered into Tara's ear, "let's go into the bedroom."

Tara shook her head, not wanting to let go of Willow. She was scared the girl was going to leave her there and go back into the bathroom for a shower.

"I'm not gonna leave you," Willow insisted, sensing Tara's thoughts. "I promise."

"Okay," Tara mumbled eventually. Nevertheless, she didn't let go of Willow. She kept her head buried against her neck and walked backwards, forcing Willow to guide her safely into the bedroom.

When they reached the bed, Tara finally released her hold as they both sat down. She grasped Willow's hands instead and just gazed into her eyes.

"I'm gonna turn off the light in the bathroom," Willow stood up once she was satisfied Tara had relaxed.

Tara stood up as well, not wanting to let go of Willow's hands.

Willow smiled indulgently, allowing Tara to hold onto her as she headed towards the bathroom. Tara only let go of one hand once she'd reached the light switch, and only long enough for Willow to flick it on and then close the door behind her.

When they got back to the bed, Willow sat back down with Tara and smiled at her warmly.

Tara smiled back and reached for Willow. She engulfed her in a tight hug and rested her head against her shoulder. "Willow," she whispered.

Willow closed her eyes and returned the embrace fiercely. While it warmed her that Tara cared so deeply for her, she nevertheless hated to see her so distressed.

"It's okay Sweetie," she whispered against the crook of Tara's neck. "I'm right here. I'm not going anywhere Baby. I'm safe. You're safe. We're both safe."

"W-W-Willow," Tara repeated, allowing her tears to fall on Willow's soft skin.

"Tara," Willow replied gently. "It's okay," she soothed. "It's okay."

In response, Tara's sobs intensified. She was no longer crying tears of anguish, but of sheer elation that Willow was safe. "Willow…"

"Oh Sweetie," Willow lifted a hand to stroke Tara's hair as she gently kissed her cheek. "You've got me. It's over."

"I-I-I was s-s-s-s-so scared," Tara mumbled through her tears. "You-you coulda g-g-gone. I don't wanna lose you. W-W-Willow…"

Willow continued to hold onto Tara as she cried, allowing the girl to let go of all her emotions. After a long while, Tara's tears finally subsided.

Willow didn't let go of her though. She maintained her grip on Tara, wanting to make sure the girl really was okay. When she was finally satisfied, she pulled away gently.

"You okay Sweetie?" she lifted her hands to Tara's face and tenderly wiped at her tear tracks.

Tara merely nodded and closed her eyes, allowing Willow's touch to soothe her.

"We should get you out of these clothes," Willow said as she placed her hands on Tara's shoulders. "I've got a nightshirt you can borrow."

Tara nodded but didn't make a move. She just opened her eyes and looked at Willow.

Willow smiled and brought her hands to the hem of Tara's shirt. She could see the girl was still too shaken up to move. With that, she slowly lifted Tara's shirt up and over her head, tossing it unceremoniously at her desk chair.

Willow chuckled ruefully when the shirt missed and hit the floor instead. She then turned back to face Tara and placed her hands on the top button of the girl's jeans, looking up at her for permission.

Tara smiled and nodded.

Permission granted, Willow deftly unbuttoned Tara's jeans. She then gently worked the denim down her legs, coming to a stop at Tara's boots. From her kneeling position, Willow looked up at Tara and smiled. She then went about untying the girl's laces and taking off her boots and socks.

"Thanks," Tara smiled as she stepped out of her jeans.

Willow stood up and smiled back. "You're welcome," she said softly, before making a move towards her dresser.

Tara reached for her hands and stopped her. She didn't want to wear a nightshirt. She wanted to feel Willow's skin against her own as she fell asleep. It was the only way she could reassure herself of the girl's presence during the night.

"Tara?" Willow questioned gently, trying to decipher the look in Tara's eyes.

"H-h-hold me," Tara appealed softly. "I w-w-w-wanna f-f-feel you," she explained. "Your s-s-skin…my skin…to-together…safe…warm…"

"Oh," Willow smiled, instantly getting the gist of Tara's thoughts. "Okay," she agreed.

Tara grinned and pulled Willow in for a warm hug. Both girls shuddered at the intimate contact of skin against skin.

"I'll get the light," Willow pulled away after a minute.

Tara sighed form the loss, but didn't make a move to stop her. Instead, she turned down the covers and crawled into bed to wait for Willow.

When Willow finally joined Tara on the bed, she stopped the girl from pulling the covers back up. If the girl needed reassurance, then she was gonna give it to her.

"Willow?" Tara questioned as the redhead straddled her hips.

"Touch me," Willow instructed, grasping Tara's hands with her own. "Feel me," she pressed them against her belly. "I'm alive."

"Alive," Tara repeated, allowing her hands to slowly travel upwards.

"Yeah," Willow shuddered and closed her eyes as Tara's hands came to rest underneath her breasts. "I'm alive…"

Tara closed her eyes as well, realising what Willow had planned. Allowing herself to succumb, Tara sat up so she could get better leverage. She then slowly moved her hands to cover Willow's breasts. She held them reverently in her hands and squeezed them gently.

"Mmmm," Willow moaned in response and arched her back.

Tara opened her eyes and exhaled, moved by Willow's reaction. She then lifted her hands up past Willow's breasts, to her chest, before coming to rest on her shoulders. She gently ran her thumbs over the girl's skin, taking in her softness.

A moment later, she moved her hands back down over Willow's body. She paused only briefly to give the girl's breasts another squeeze, before travelling down her belly and on to her thighs. She massaged Willow's thighs gently, enjoying the way her skin felt underneath her fingers. Willow was definitely here and alive.

Willow sighed as Tara finished with her thighs and moved back up to her breasts. She held back a moan as she squeezed her nipples, but was unable to hold back the gentle shudder coursing through her body.

"Tara," she moved her hands up to Tara's cheeks. "Kiss me," she trembled.

Lifting her hands from Willow's breasts, Tara smoothly captured Willow's lips and wrapped her arms around her back. She pulled her close so that their breasts were pressed together.

"Mmm," Willow shuddered, opening and closing her lips against Tara's. After a while, she felt the girl's tongue seeking entry, and she instantly granted it.

When their tongues met both girls moaned and began their familiar dance. However, it wasn't just their tongues dancing this time, their upper bodies were moving too. Each time their breasts would press together, an electric current would run through them.

Pretty soon, Tara began to need more. Not relief, but proof—reassurance. She moved her lips from Willow's and started pressing soft kisses against her cheeks, down her jaw, along her neck, before reaching her chest. She lifted her hands to Willow's shoulders and guided her backwards, just enough to give her lips better access.

Willow moaned and quivered as Tara's tongue reached out to taste the skin of her chest. Her tongue and her lips moved sensuously downwards until they reached the hollow between her breasts.

"Oh gods!" Willow arched her back and lifted her hands to Tara's hair. "Oh wow!" she sighed as Tara's moved over her left mound, and then her right.

Tara was losing herself in Willow's softness. This was Willow. She was here. And she was alive.

With that thought, Tara surprised Willow by rolling her onto her back. She then positioned herself between the girl's legs and placed her hands over Willow's breasts as her mouth moved to the girl's belly.

"Mmmm," Willow returned her hands to Tara's hair, entangling them gently as the girl's tongue circled her skin and her hands kneaded her breasts. When Tara finally reached her navel and pressed her tongue lightly inside it, Willow felt lost. "Oh wow!" she tightened her grip on Tara's hair. "Oh gods…mmm…wow…oh Tara…Baby…mmm…"

Tara relished Willow's soft moans and subtle gyrations. Hearing and feeling the girl's reaction was just as powerful as actually sampling her. It served to further cement the girl's state of existence.

But it still wasn't enough. Letting go of Willow's breasts, Tara sat herself up in a kneeling position. She then moved her hands to the back of her own bra strap and unclasped it.

Willow's eyes widened as she met Tara's gaze. "Tara?"

"I w-w-wanna f-f-feel you," Tara explained, nodding down towards Willow's breasts. "S-s-skin against s-s-skin…"

Willow sat up in realisation, her eyes still locked with Tara's. "You sure?" she whispered, even while she moved her hands to her own back.

"Please," Tara appealed quietly.

Willow simply nodded and snapped open the clasp.

Tara smiled and reached her hands for Willow's shoulders. In turn, Willow reached for Tara's, and as one, they slowly lowered the straps down before tossing one another's bras to the floor. They kept their eyes locked together. Neither wanting to look until they were both ready.

"Tara," Willow said her name nervously.

"You okay?" Tara asked gently.

"Just nervous," Willow smiled tentatively. "I-I know it's dark and we, uh…we can't see that well anyway, but…Oh gods Tara, I've been thinking about this so much…what you look like…feel like…"

"Me too," Tara smiled back shyly.

"Look at me," Willow prompted huskily.

With a smile, Tara hesitantly began to lower her gaze downwards, as did Willow.

Both girls let out a soft sigh at the sight that beheld them, and without a word they reached for one another.

"Oh gods," Willow closed her eyes as her hands covered Tara's breasts. They were more magnificent than she'd ever imagined. And they felt amazing. She was so beautiful.

"Willow," Tara said as she cupped her breasts. "You're so perfect," she began to gently knead them.

"You too," Willow trembled and followed Tara's lead.

A moment later, the girls leaned forward and pressed their lips together. They continued to lightly massage one another's breasts, occasionally stopping to tenderly squeeze a nipple.

"Oh Willow," Tara eventually pulled away. She looked into the girl's half-closed eyes and lifted her hands to her shoulders. She guided her down onto the bed and pressed her lips against her chest.

"Tara," Willow moaned and lifted her hands to the girl's hair. "Oh Baby," she felt the heat between her legs rising when Tara's tongue moved down to her left breast. The girl teased her by slowly running around in a spiral, taking her time in reaching her nipple. Her left hand meanwhile moved to her right breast and began to gently knead it.

When Tara's tongue finally reached her nipple Willow felt like she would melt. "Tara!" she gasped and arched her back.

In response, Tara took Willow's peak into her mouth and moved her fingers to press against the tip of her right breast.

This caused Willow to quiver even more violently. Especially once Tara began to lightly suck on her nipple. She'd never had anyone do that to her before, not without a cloth barrier. And the warm, wet sensation of Tara's mouth applying a gentle pressure on that most sensitive of peaks, was more exhilarating than she'd ever imagined.

This was a first for Tara as well. And to feel the taut crown of Willow's breast against her tongue, inside her mouth, was just the thing she needed to reaffirm the girl's existence.

"Mmmngh," Willow protested when Tara's lips left her nipple. Her protests were short lived however, as the girl quickly replaced her mouth with her fingers, and moved her lips to her other breast. "Tara!"

Once again, Tara took her time in spiralling around Willow's breast. When she finally reached her nipple, she reduced the pace even more. First, she extended her tongue and slowly licked her way around the nipple, before pressing against it, and eventually taking it into her mouth.

Tara's gentle sucking was rapidly bringing Willow close to the edge. In fact, if Tara didn't stop soon she would have to take matters into her own hands. As it were, she was having a hard enough time keeping her fingers entangled within Tara's hair, and not moving them down between her own thighs to relieve her tension.

Sensing this, Tara reluctantly pulled away and sat up. She looked down at Willow and smiled shyly. She hadn't meant to get so carried away with the girl's breasts.

As her breathing steadied, Willow gradually opened her eyes and looked up at Tara. "Hey," she said huskily.

"Hey," Tara responded in kind.

"C'mere," Willow lifted her hands up invitingly.

Tara smiled and nodded before leaning down and covering Willow's body with her own. She pressed her forehead against Willow's, and rested her forearms on either side of her face. Only then did she allow herself to completely rest atop Willow—nipple against nipple, belly against belly.

Willow exhaled sharply at the impression, and moved her hands to Tara's back.

"Mmm," Tara shuddered. But she didn't want to hurt the girl. "You okay?" she whispered. "Not too heavy?"

Willow chastely kissed Tara's lips. "Just right."

Tara smiled and allowed herself to relax. She was now finally satisfied that Willow was real. How was it that the girl had known exactly what she needed? She was incredible. 'And I love her so much more than I ever thought possible.'

After a while, Tara tentatively rolled onto her side. She knew Willow couldn't sustain her weight all night. She then pulled her as close to herself as she could, wanting to be like one with the girl she loved.

"Night Tara," Willow whispered against Tara's lips.

"Night Willow," Tara whispered back, kissing her lips chastely.

And with that, the two girls fell asleep in each other's arms—something they hadn't done in a long time.

***

Early the next morning, just as the first rays of sunlight were making their way between the curtains, Tara's eyes flew open and she sat upright in terror.

"Willow!" she screamed the girl's name, convinced that she was no longer with her.

Willow stirred at the sound of her name. "Tara?" she mumbled, brushing the sleep from her eyes as she sat up.

Tara turned towards Willow and sighed in relief. It had just been a dream. Willow hadn't disintegrated into nothingness.

"Willow," she reached for the girl's shoulders and pulled her into her arms.

"Tara?" Willow questioned, moving her hands to the girl's back and resting her head against her shoulder.

"Mmm," Tara sighed and closed her eyes.

Willow responded in kind and let out a soft sigh. "Bad dream?" she whispered against Tara's neck.

"Mmm hmm," Tara mumbled as their nipples brushed together. "But this makes it better…"

Willow smiled and lifted her lips to Tara's cheek. "How 'bout this?" she moved her lips against Tara's.

"Even better," Tara smiled, pulling away to meet Willow's gaze.

"You okay?" Willow lifted her right hand to Tara's cheek and lovingly caressed her. "You still upset about last night?"

Tara smiled hesitantly. "A little," she admitted, her eyes fluttering closed as she responded to Willow's touch. "Bad dream didn't help." Tara opened her eyes and smiled. "But seeing you next to me…"

Willow grinned and leaned her forehead against Tara's. "It was nice," she confirmed, "waking up together."

"Yeah," Tara agreed huskily, closing her eyes again.

"I missed it," Willow admitted. "Holding you, seeing you last thing at night, first thing in the morning …"

Tara trembled. "I missed it too…" she pulled away and lifted her hands to Willow's cheeks. "I was so scared," she met her gaze fiercely. "When I saw the energy bolt coming for you…all I could think about was…was…oh gods Willow. If anything had happened to you…"

Willow tenderly wiped at the tears forming on Tara's cheeks, and blinked away her own. She'd had her doubts in the past, but she was now certain that the girl loved her. Only love could cause such a reaction.

"You know I feel the same way?" Willow moved her forehead back to Tara's. "If I ever lost you…" she shuddered at the thought. "Gods Baby, I don't know what I'd do. You're…you're…you're my family. You know what I mean?"

Tara pulled away, teardrops falling down her cheeks and welling in her eyes as she met Willow's gaze. She knew exactly what the girl meant. "And you're mine," she said huskily. "My family…"

Willow responded by lifting her hands to Tara's cheeks, capturing the girl's lips with her own, and falling backwards against the bed.

'Family,' Tara thought to herself as she thrust her tongue deep into Willow's mouth. 'I'm her family…' Tara straddled her thigh and quivered. 'Family loves each other…Willow loves me like family? She loves me, she loves me, she loves me!?'

Tara eventually pulled away and moved to lie on her side, resting her elbow against the bed and her head against her hand. "My family," she smiled down at the girl before her. "My Willow."

"My Tara," Willow smiled back.

Absently, Tara reached down with her right hand and languidly began to play with Willow's left nipple. She pinched it gently, thumbed it, circled it with her finger, and then cupped the whole breast in her hand and pressed her palm against its peak. The girl loved her…?

Willow closed her eyes, allowing Tara to touch her as she wished. She loved the way Tara's hand felt against her bare breast, the way it created instant warmth between her legs.

As Tara continued to work her breast and tweak her nipple, Willow began to let out a small sigh every now and again. She also began to moan softly, needing more contact than what she was getting.

"Tara," Willow fluttered her eyes open and whispered the girl's name huskily.

Tara smiled and removed her hand. "Sorry," she said sheepishly.

"It's okay," Willow reassured, reaching out and placing Tara's hand back onto her breast. "I like how you touch me," she said softly, pressing the girl's palm against her nipple. "But I want more…"

Tara silently allowed Willow to guide her. The girl slowly moved her hand from her breast, down her belly, and brought it to rest against the waistband of her panties.

Tara's eyes widened when Willow brought her hand even further down. Her fingers were resting at the apex of Willow's sex, and she could clearly feel how wet the girl was through her panties.

She instantly pulled her hand away. "W-W-Willow?" she questioned.

Willow smiled sheepishly. "I just…I wanted you to, uh, know what you do to me…"

Tara's lips curled into a grin. "Oh," she returned her hand to rest against Willow's breast. "You mean this?" she gently pinched the girl's nipple.

"Mmmm," Willow responded by arching her back and quivering.

"This what you like?" Tara squeezed again.

Willow moaned and fluttered her eyes open. She was done playing. With that, she sat up, heatedly thrust her tongue into Tara's mouth and roughly pushed her down onto her back. It was her turn now.

Willow began to capture and recapture Tara's lips as her hands moved up to the girl's cheeks. She pressed her knee against the blonde's heat and allowed her own slickness to meet with Tara's thigh .

Meanwhile, Tara placed her hands on Willow's back and passionately ran her fingers up and down her skin. All the while, she began to gradually thrust upwards, letting her desire meet Willow's knee as her own thigh afforded Willow the same kind of pressure.

After a while, Willow began to move her lips downwards. She pressed soft kisses against Tara's cheeks, along her jaw line, down her neck and over her chest. In turn, Tara moved her hands up to Willow's hair, holding her gently as she accepted her attentions.

When Willow's lips finally reached the top mound of Tara's right breast, the redhead pulled away. Last night she'd only gotten a shadowy glimpse of Tara's magnificence, and she wanted to fully savour the sight of the girl's uncovered breasts.

Willow sighed as she took in the vision before her. She stared at Tara for a long time, marvelling at how perfect the girl was. She'd never seen breasts as breathtaking as Tara's.

"You're so beautiful," she whispered huskily, reaching down with her hands. She trembled when she felt the imprint of Tara's nipples against her palms and moved her fingers inwards. "I love how this feels,' Willow lightly twisted her nipples in emphasis.

"Mmmm…" Tara arched her back and let out an unsteady moan. "Me too…" She moved her hands to her sides and clenched at the bed sheets as her eyes closed shut and her mouth opened in a gasp.

Willow smiled, pleased with Tara's reaction. And with that, she abruptly lowered her head down. She didn't bother with teasing and savouring. Instead, she boldly covered Tara's left nipple with her lips and hungrily took it into her mouth.

"Mmmm," Willow moaned. She hadn't been prepared for just how incredible this would feel. 'She's mine!'

As Willow changed breasts, Tara lifted her hands to the girl's hair and held her tightly. "Oh gods," she sighed, feeling the warmth flooding her body. She'd never afforded another girl such intimacy, and she was overwhelmed by how sensitive and responsive her body was.

When Willow's lips finally released her nipple and began moving downwards, Tara began to get a little nervous. Willow's tongue was now exploring the small recesses of her navel. Her hands meanwhile had moved to her hips and her fingers were playing a dangerous game with the edge of her panties.

She knew it wouldn't be too long before Willow's ravenous mouth reached even further down, and her fingers stopped toying with her and slipped those panties down completely…

A moment later, Tara's fears came to fruition. Willow's lips inevitably found their way to the waistband of her panties.

"Willow," Tara gently but firmly tugged her upwards. "S-s-stop," she struggled to explain. "I-I-I don't…n-n-n-not…not ready…"

Willow pulled away grudgingly. It's not like she intended on making love right this minute. She wasn't ready for that either. But it would've been nice to have gotten a little taste.

She wasn't even planning on taking off the girl's panties. She just wanted to tease her a little—tease them both. Why did Tara always have to stop things just as they were getting interesting?

With Oz, Willow had always felt reluctant to take things further; to lose her virginity. But it was different with Tara. Whenever she kissed the girl, touched her even, all she wanted to do was culminate the tension. She was never in control of herself, unlike Tara.

However, a part of Willow could appreciate that. It was a good thing that at least one of them could keep a clear head. But it also meant that Tara wasn't as caught up in their relationship as she herself was.

As a result, Willow had come to her own conclusions. She'd figured out why the blonde never lost herself…

'Tara wasn't in love with her.'

Willow sighed at the thought. She'd hoped that after last night, things had changed. 'What do I have to do to get her to fall in love with me?' Willow sighed again. 'Will she ever fall in love with me?'

"I'm sorry," Tara apologised as Willow sighed for the third time.

"Oh no," Willow forced a smile to her lips and moved off the bed. "My bad.," she smiled warily, "It's just…"

"What?" Tara prompted, getting up and reaching for Willow's hands to prevent her from moving away. She felt bad for upsetting the girl. It's not like she didn't want Willow to touch her—to make love to her. She just wanted to wait for the right time; for when they were both in love. Couldn't Willow understand that?

Willow tentatively met Tara's gaze. She wanted to be honest with the girl. "Last night…" she ventured reluctantly. "This morning…" she continued. "I just thought…"

"Thought what?" Tara's puzzlement increased.

Willow sighed again. "I thought you…"

"What?"

"Nothing," Willow exhaled, losing her nerve. She felt like a fool for thinking Tara might have fallen in love with her.

With that, Willow extricated herself from Tara's arms and hurriedly located something to wear. She needed some time alone to reorganise her thoughts and deal with the blonde's rejection.

Tara watched helplessly as Willow headed into the bathroom. A part of her wanted to stop the girl so they could talk, but the look on her face told her to leave her be.

With a sigh of her own, Tara slowly gathered up her clothing and got dressed. She hated the tension she'd caused—hated to see Willow in such a bad mood because of her. Unfortunately, Willow wasn't in the mood to discuss it.

***

When Willow got out of the shower, she headed straight for the kitchen to find Tara. The time alone had helped put the situation into perspective for her. As usual she'd rushed into things without thinking. And after how she'd behaved, she wouldn't blame Tara for hating her.

Willow greeted the blonde with a hesitant smile. The girl had brewed them a couple of mochas and was pensively sipping hers at the table.

"Hey Tara," she said as she joined her, doing her best to sound cheerful. "Thanks for the coffee," she took a large sip.

Tara smiled back. She was pleased to see Willow in better spirits. She'd been worried. "We okay?" she asked in a very small voice

Willow instantly put down her coffee. "Of course," she said softly, reaching her hands for Tara's. "I'm sorry I got all bad moody," she smiled ruefully. "Still love me?" she quipped.

Tara's lips curled into a warm smile as she lifted her hands to Willow's cheeks. Of course she still loved her.

"Always," Tara assured huskily.

Willow smiled and closed her eyes, letting out a soft sigh as Tara's lips met with hers in a brief kiss. She hadn't realised she'd been holding her breath as she awaited the girl's response. Tara's love—even if only platonic—was something her whole being craved.

"Willow…?" Tara ventured, moving her forehead to rest against Willow's. Now that the notion was out there, she wanted to say the words, but was afraid of sounding too intense. She didn't want to cross any boundaries and frighten the girl…

"Yeah?"

Tara took a deep breath and smiled, doing her best to keep her tone light. "Love you," she said huskily, pulling away to meet Willow's gaze shyly. She just hoped her eyes didn't betray the full extent of that love.

Willow's heart skipped a beat. It was the first time Tara had said the actual words. "Love you too," she beamed. 'Tara loves me! She loves me! She loves me! She loves me!'

Tara impulsively pressed another kiss against Willow's lips. The words had taken a lot out of her. They were hard to say when she meant them on so many levels. But hearing them back was just as powerful. Oh, if only Willow meant them like she did…

"Family," Tara said as she pulled away. She wanted Willow to know she wasn't pushing things.

Willow smiled, guessing where Tara was going with this. "And family loves you no matter what."

"Exactly," Tara confirmed with a smile. "Even if you get all bad moody…"

"Just blame it on hormones," Willow smirked. "Thank God for showers…"

Their words of love had caused the pair to deliberately lighten their tone. Neither felt ready or comfortable to take their relationship to the next level. Not yet anyway.

Tara smiled. "So that's why you're in such a good mood now?" she teased.

"Uh huh," Willow grinned and took a sip of her mocha. "Had to finish what we started…"

Tara chuckled. "Lucky you…"

"You coulda joined me," Willow flirted.

Tara smiled good-naturedly. "Maybe next time," she said huskily. "I wouldn't mind watching…"

Willow put down her coffee and met Tara's gaze boldly. "You show me yours and I'll show ya mine," she quipped.

Tara blushed, but didn't lower her gaze. "It's a deal…"

Willow chuckled and lifted the mug to her lips. She would definitely hold Tara to that. It was one of her more frequent fantasies. Among others…

'You've got it bad girl,' she chided herself. 'If Tara backs off whenever you get too snugly, just think how she'd react if she knew you were in love with her. You better get out of here Rosenberg, before you ruin things for good…'

With that thought, she stood up and put down her mug.

"I should go," Willow explained nervously. "Don't wanna be late for school."

"Okay," Tara nodded and stood up as well.

"I'll see you this afternoon," Willow reached for Tara and pulled her close. "I'll miss you," she whispered, pressing their lips together. Despite her intentions, she was unable to stop herself from voicing her feelings.

Tara leaned into the kiss and lifted her hands to Willow's back. "Me too," she said as she pulled away, willing herself not to get emotional.

Willow smiled and pressed another kiss to Tara's lips before heading out.

***

Not long after Willow left, Tara had a recollection. She'd organised a job interview at the local grocery store yesterday, and in all the commotion, she'd forgotten to tell Willow about it.

She eventually caught up with Willow at the student lounge. She was sitting on a couch with Oz. Xander and Cordelia were there too. They were seated on another couch opposite them.

"Hey," she greeted her friends.

Willow's face lit up as she spied Tara. "Hey you," she grinned, scooting to the left of the couch to give Tara room to sit down. "What are you doing here?"

Tara smiled as she took a seat between Oz and Willow. "I, um, I just wanted to let you know I'd be a little late this afternoon," she explained.

"Late?" Willow frowned. "How come?"

"I have an interview at the grocery store. It's not the Magic shop…but it's still a job," she chuckled.

"Oh," Willow beamed, reaching her hand for Tara's. "I hope you get it," she squeezed her hand gently.

"So, anyway," Cordelia interjected. "Before the interruption," she turned to face Willow. "You were saying that there's no more glove thingy?"

"No," Xander answered his girlfriend. "Little Living Flame, little mesquite, gone for good."

"Sounds like we missed a lot of fun," Oz noted.

"Then we're telling it wrong," Xander replied.

"What do you think Buffy and Angel are gonna do?" Willow asked.

"Boy, do I don't know," Xander answered her sarcastically.

Willow locked eyes with Tara meaningfully. "Well, he saved me from a horrible flame-y death. That sorta makes me like him again," she smiled sheepishly.

"Me, too," Tara said softly, giving Willow's hand a gentle squeeze. She could have lost Willow. Whatever Angel's past transgressions were, they mattered not to Tara. In her eyes, the guy was a saint—a saviour.

"Well, as long as she and Angel don't get pelvic, we'll be okay," Xander interjected, "I guess…"

Buffy chose that moment to enter the student lounge. "What are you guys talking about?"

"Oddly enough, your boyfriend…again," Oz replied.

"He's not my boyfriend," Buffy sighed, taking a seat next to Xander. "Really, truly, he's…" she sighed again, not sure exactly what they were. "I don't know…"

She then turned to face Xander and Cordelia, remembering their argument. "Are we cool?" She asked hesitantly.

"Yeah!" Xander replied with a half-smile. "Just, seeing the two of you kissing again after everything that happened…I leaned towards the postal…." He paused then, taking a deep breath before finishing. "But I trust you," he told her sincerely.

"I don't," Cordelia interjected. "Just for the record."

Buffy rolled her eyes at Cordelia. She'd kinda expected her to react like that.

Just then, Giles made his presence known by clearing his throat. He gave the group a hesitant smile.

"Let me guess," Buffy turned to face him, "Gwendolyn Post…not a Watcher?"

"Yes, she was," Giles corrected. "She was, uh…kicked out by the council a couple of years ago for misuses of dark power. They swear there was a memo."

"Well, I better go," Buffy ventured, turning to face Xander. "Little more damage control," she explained.

"You going to see Faith?" Tara asked softly.

"Yeah," Buffy replied.

"I'm glad," Tara smiled. "She needs you…"

"What do you mean?" Buffy frowned.

"The two of you share a-a bond," Tara explained. "And Faith might not admit it…but she's not as tough as she makes out sometimes. You know?"

Willow pondered Tara's words with a frown. She still didn't like how close Tara and Faith were. And now, Buffy and Faith shared a bond. It was as if Faith was stealing all her people. Who was next? Xander?

"I'll keep it in mind," Buffy said with a smile.

Willow sighed as she watched her best friend leave, deciding not to dwell any further on her Faith issues. Her thoughts drifted towards the events of the last couple of days instead.

"The whole Angel thing is so weird," she voiced her thoughts.

"Yes," Giles agreed, taking a seat next to Xander. "We'll have to see how that unfolds, won't we?"

"It's hard," Tara sighed.

"What's hard?" Willow smiled at her friend.

"Having to hide your feelings," Tara said softly, giving Willow a meaningful look.

"Yeah," Willow agreed, wondering if Tara knew just how much she was holding back.

"Right," Xander piped up, missing the double meaning behind the girls' conversation. "But she can feel all she wants. Just no touching…"

"Xander!" Cordelia frowned, crossing her arms to portray her displeasure. "Is that all you think about?"

Xander looked at her sheepishly and shrugged his shoulders.

"Anyway," Tara let go of Willow's hand, deciding this was neither the time nor the place to discuss their own feelings. "I, um…I better go."

"Oh," Willow sighed, not wanting her to leave. She always felt happy when Tara was around. "Now?"

"Yeah," Tara smiled as she stood up. "I have c-c-classes soon and then I have to get ready for my j-j-job interview."

"Okay," Willow smiled back. "I'll see you later. Oh, and good luck at the interview."

"Thanks," Tara acknowledged, before saying goodbye to the rest of the gang.

***

That afternoon, Tara walked home from the grocery store with a huge grin on her face. The interview had gone well, and she'd been asked to start work on Monday. While it wasn't her dream job, the hours were flexible, and the rate of pay was reasonable. Which is why she was in the mood to celebrate. She felt like taking Willow out to dinner somewhere special. However, she didn't want to send the wrong impression. Going out to a fancy restaurant would seem too much like a date and while she'd like nothing more than to go on a real date with Willow, things between them were too complicated for that right now.

However, she still wanted to do something to celebrate. Maybe they could go to a movie and then head out to the Bronze? Or maybe just go to the Bronze? Yeah, a movie would be too date-like. The Bronze was safe, comfortable even, and she could still buy them both dinner.

Now that her decision was made, Tara was free to think about other things as she continued walking. Her mind wandered back to the events of the past few days. This resulted in her thinking about Faith. She hadn't really spoken much to the dark-haired Slayer—not since the girl had hit Willow. Maybe it was time to make amends? The girl probably needed a friend right now anyway. The Slayer had trusted the wrong person when she'd put her faith in Gwendolyn Post, and that must definitely be weighing on her mind.

What's more, even though Buffy had said she'd gone to see her, Tara was certain that Faith still wasn't convinced of the girl's friendship. She needed to be shown that her judgment wasn't always bad—that there 'were' people out there she could trust. Buffy and herself were two of those people.

This is why, Tara took a slight detour on her way back to her dorm, and was now standing outside Faith's motel room. She knocked purposefully and waited for a response.

"Yeah," she heard Faith yell out after a moment. "Who is it?"

"Hey Faith," she called out the girl's name, "it's me…Tara."

There was a moment of silence, before Faith answered. "It's unlocked."

Tara opened the door and stepped inside. Faith was lying comfortably on her bed, leafing through a magazine. As she got a better look at the girl's face, Tara couldn't help but cringe at the painful looking bruising and swelling the Slayer sported.

"Hey, " Faith shrugged off Tara's look. "I'll be right," she continued as the blonde took a seat next to her on the bed. "Slayer healing, you know?"

Tara smiled in response and lifted her right hand up to Faith's cheek. "Close your eyes," she requested softly, bringing her left hand up to the girl's other cheek, cupping her face tenderly.

"What are—?" Faith protested, but was cut off instantly. She couldn't help but close her eyes as she felt the warmth emanating from Tara's hands. The girl's energy was incredibly soothing and she was powerless to do anything but sit there and accept Tara's help.

After a minute, Tara finally released her charge and moved her hands back to her sides. She wasn't the most advanced healer around, but with the aid of Faith's inherent Slayer healing, she'd managed to completely remove the swelling and fade the bruising on her face so that it was only barely noticeable.

"There," Tara smiled as Faith opened her eyes, "good as new. Well, almost," she chuckled.

Faith blinked a couple of times, unsure of what had just happened. She'd been caught completely off guard by Tara's actions. "I, uh…um…thanks," she finally offered up, her words coming out hesitantly and awkwardly.

"You're welcome," Tara's smile widened. "I wasn't sure it would work," she admitted. "I've only ever used my energy to reduce p-p-pain-like a magickal aspirin or something. I never thought it would actually h-h-heal you…"

"I guess it's the Slayer thing," Faith chuckled.

"Yeah," Tara agreed.

The girls looked at one another warmly and suddenly, it was as if they hadn't been estranged at all. Healing someone sure helped with closing down emotional barriers.

"I'm glad you're okay," Tara finally spoke.

"I held my own," Faith grinned. "B caught me off guard is all. I'll show her next time…"

"You really think there'll be a next time?" Tara smiled. " 'Cause, I, uh, I think you'd m-m-make much better allies."

"Me and B?" Faith quirked an eyebrow as she scoffed. "That'll be the day. That girl has some serious issues…"

"But she's still your friend," Tara insisted. "You make a good team. You, um…complement each other."

Faith laughed. "B and I are way different. Besides, I don't think she'd swing that way…"

It was Tara's turn to laugh this time. "Does everything have to revolve around sex with you?"

"Pretty much," Faith smirked. "What else is there? Patrol, Slay, Screw…"

Tara chuckled good-naturedly. "You're both Slayers," she explained. "You share something that no one else can understand. I'd say that's pretty good grounds for a solid friendship."

Faith had to concede that Blondie had a point. However, she wasn't about to admit it to her.

"You know, maybe if I got her drunk, she might be willing to reconsider her tastes," Faith quipped. "Who knows, it might even help her forget about Cold, Hard and Dead-some…although, if she wanted to share him…"

Faith's eyes glazed over as she mockingly gave the idea some thought. "Yeah, definite possibilities…"

Tara shook her head as she laughed at Faith's antics. "You really can't get your mind out of the gutter…can you?"

"Why bother?" Faith grinned. "It's so much fun there."

Tara smiled as she moved off the bed. "Anyway, I uh…I better go. Willow will be waiting and I—"

"Wait up," Faith leapt off the bed as Tara headed towards the door. "I'll walk you back. It's getting dark," she explained off Tara's questioning look. "Vamps—"

"Oh," Tara chuckled, realising the Slayer had a point. However, she could tell there was more to the girl's offer. Faith obviously wanted to talk about what had happened, but didn't know how to ask. "Thanks," she acknowledged.

Faith shrugged nonchalantly as she reached for a nearby stake.

***

The girls walked slowly and in silence. After a while, Tara realised that Faith wasn't about to come right out with what was bothering her. The girl was a great one for self-denial.

"Hey, um, Faith…" Tara ventured slowly. "You know, it's, um…it's not your fault."

"What do you mean?" Faith asked defensively.

"Gwendolyn Post," Tara explained. "You had no reason not to trust her…"

"Oh, hey," Faith protested, "Who said it was my fault? She's a psycho and—"

"You had every reason to think she was telling the truth," Tara insisted, cutting off the Slayer's protest. "Buffy hid things," she continued. "You were just starting to trust her and then you found out about Angel. It was only n-n-natural that—"

"No, I—"

Once again, Tara cut off Faith's protest. She stopped walking and turned to face the Slayer, placing a hand on her arm. "Faith," she said her name gently, releasing just a little of her energy, hoping it would soothe the girl.

Faith frowned as she felt herself relax, confused by the sensation. Blondie was sure doing a number on her. Although, the girl did have a point and Faith found it a little unnerving how clear Tara made everything.

"Yeah, well…"

"It's okay," Tara insisted, finally removing her hand. "I think you don't give Buffy enough credit," she pointed out as they began walking again.

"I'm not sure I understand you Blondie. I think you've got it wrong bout B and me. Why you tryin' to push us together? You playin' matchmaker or somethin'?"

Tara chuckled and shook her head in response.

"Oh, yeah," Faith continued, ignoring her denial. "Now I get it. You think If I go after B I'll stop hittin' on you…right Cutie?"

"Faith…!" Tara said her name in a stern manner.

"I knew it!" Faith shouted out triumphantly, ignoring the girl's mock-glare. "You scared you'll get tempted?" Faith stopped walking and moved to stand right in front of Tara. "That's it, isn't it?" she leaned in, her face merely an inch from Tara's.

Tara chuckled and took a step back. "Come on," she moved passed the flirtatious Slayer, a bemused grin on her face. She was getting used to Faith's flirting by now. "I need to get back," Tara continued. "Willow's waiting…"

"Oh," Faith leered. "So you and Red gonna do the dirty in your room?"

"We're friends," Tara insisted with a blush. "Nothing—"

"No way!" Faith protested. "I see the way you two been lookin' at each other. I know lust when I see it…"

Tara sighed at Faith's observation. The Slayer did have a point. However, attraction wasn't everything.

"It's not what you think," Tara ventured. "Willow's not r-r-ready for that. She still hasn't even come out to everyone…"

"Figures," Faith replied sardonically. "I don't think Red would ever do anything that wasn't 'good and proper.' I bet it's killin her to realise she's gay. Aww, poor baby," Faith chuckled mockingly.

"Don't go there Faith," Tara warned. "You don't understand…"

"I understand plenty," Faith insisted. "Red's too scared to come out 'cause she thinks her goody-goody Scoobie friends would ditch her. And 'you're' too worried 'bout how she feels to let her get into a relationship she has to hide."

Tara sighed at Faith's surprisingly accurate observation. "Oz and Xander know," she felt the need to point out. "Besides, it's hard for her, Willow's just scared. It's not her fault and I-I-I don't wanna hurt her. She—"

"Doesn't deserve you," Faith interrupted. "You're too good for her," she continued, running her eyes down the girl's body slowly. "You need to find someone who's not afraid to be who they are. If you were mine I'd wanna hang you on my arm for the whole frickin' world to see and damn those self righteous bastards who think it's wrong."

Tara chuckled at her way with words.

Faith leered flirtatiously.

"What say, you and me forget 'bout heading back to your dorm and check out the Red Oyster instead? It's meant to be the most bitchin' gay bar in town. Anyone lookin' to get laid never ends up wanting. It's not known as the Big O for nothing…if you know what I mean?" she chuckled.

Tara smiled as she shook her head. "You should go then," she insisted. "But I think I'll pass. Willow's waiting—"

Faith shook her head bemusedly. "Geez Blondie. You're pussy whipped and you ain't even gettin' any pussy. I wonder how whipped you'd be if Red ever did give you a taste…"

"F-F-Faith," Tara blushed.

Faith tapped the blonde's shoulder good-naturedly. "Well, if you change your mind…" she offered with a grin.

Tara giggled and blushed again, but said nothing.

***

Willow was stretched out on Tara's bed, reading a romance novel. She'd been waiting for Tara since about 5pm and it was almost 6pm now. She knew Tara would be late, but she hadn't thought she'd be this late and it hadn't taken her long to get bored.

That's why she'd grabbed CN Winters' 'Irrefutable Evidence' from Tara's bookshelf. After the girl's recommendation, she was curious to see what it was like. And she had to admit she wasn't disappointed. Willow was definitely enjoying her initiation into the lesbian lifestyle.

As she turned the page back so that she could re-read a particularly juicy sex scene, Willow heard voices outside Tara's door. She looked up and was surprised to see Tara enter the room with Faith. What was Faith doing here? Why had Tara gone to Faith? What were they doing together?

"Hey Red," Faith greeted with a leer, purposefully placing a hand on Tara's waist as she closed the door.

Willow looked down to where Faith's hand rested and frowned. Which is why she missed Tara's stern glare at the Slayer.

Faith winked at the blonde as she released her hold, shrugging her shoulders as if to say 'couldn't resist.'

Willow continued to frown as she moved her gaze up to Tara. "What's going on?" she asked. "Thought you had a job interview?"

"I did," Tara insisted, recognising Willow's shift in mood for what it was. She didn't like to make the girl feel insecure, but why couldn't Willow trust her when it came to Faith?

"You were at a job interview?" Faith asked in surprise. "How'd it go?"

Tara turned towards the Slayer and smiled, recalling her good news. "Great," she beamed. "I start at the grocery store on Monday."

"Congrats," Faith leaned in and wrapped her arms around Tara in a brief hug.

Willow was livid as Faith released her hold on Tara. She'd wanted to be the one to hug Tara, and she hated that Faith had gotten there first. How dare the girl hug her Tara. She was the only one who had that right.

Not to be outdone, Willow moved towards Tara and wrapped her arms around the girl's waist. She then boldly pressed her lips to Tara's, kissing her softly.

"Congratulations," she whispered as she pulled away, smiling warmly at Tara before turning her head to give Faith a gleeful smirk.

Tara noticed this and sighed—both with annoyance and elation. On the one hand, her lips were buzzing from Willow's kiss, but on the other, she couldn't help feeling like some kind of trophy. And that did not sit well with her at all.

Faith chuckled at Willow's display, recognising the girl's challenge for what it was. 'Well, if that's how she wants to play it,' Faith thought to herself. 'Let's see how she does at the Red Oyster…'

"This calls for a Red Oyster celebration," Faith ventured, moving towards Tara's left side.

"Red Oyster?" Willow asked, taking a step closer to Tara's right.

"It's not really your scene Red," Faith jibed.

"What're you saying?" Willow demanded in confusion.

"It's a gay bar," Faith grinned. "I don't think you're ready to play with the big girls yet," she challenged, using her most patronising tone.

"I'm 18," Willow insisted, rising to the bait.

"Ooooh, I forgot," Faith chuckled mockingly.

Before Willow could protest, Faith interjected with yet another patronising suggestion.

"I say you stay here and get your happy off those," she ventured towards the romance novel on the bed. "We wouldn't want anyone finding out your big bad secret, now would we?"

Willow clenched her fists. How dare Faith talk to her like that? It was all she could do to keep her hands by her sides. If Faith weren't a Slayer…

"If Tara wants to celebrate at the Red Oyster," Willow raised her voice slightly, doing her best to remain in control of her emotions, "I'll take her there."

"You think you can?" Faith countered with a grin. "I bet you don't even know where it is. Besides, she needs a Slayer to look out for her, not a wannabe witch."

Willow was fuming, and she could almost feel her anger manifesting itself around her. "Fine," she gritted between her teeth. "But I'm taking her out to celebrate. You're just the Slayer Guard."

"Whatever you reckon," Faith replied, taking a step towards the door.

"Yeah, whatever," Willow followed her, reaching for the doorknob at the same time as the Slayer.

They glared at one another as they struggled to open the door, neither wanting to give way.

Tara watched the display silently; frustrated with the way Willow was behaving. This territorial side of Willow was something she hadn't seen before, and she didn't exactly like it. In fact, she found it cheapened their relationship. Why couldn't Willow trust her? She'd always been open with her feelings and attraction for the girl. So why did Willow still feel the need to compete with Faith?

"Uh, " Tara sighed as the pair exited the room, "you forgot to ask if…"

'…that's how I wanted to celebrate…'

Tara trailed off; her protests were falling on deaf ears. Willow and Faith were already half way down the hall before either of them had even noticed she wasn't following them. With another sigh, she stepped outside and closed the door behind her, realising she didn't really have much of a choice in the matter.

***

The End of Part 6b

***