(AU) Java and Violins

[myfamiliar2824]

dibs yay, I am gonna go read now.

Oh a very sweet update.

[Zampsa1975]

Great update-y goodness... Nice touch for Tara to perform for Willow... I hope there is no more Julie-trouble...

[LittleBit]

I am so glad that Tara played the violin for that soliloquy ... such beautiful art should never be abandoned. As for Julie ... she's gotta go!!!!! Of course I get the feeling that Buffy could be taking her out soonish???

[eday69]

Chapter 18
“Tara.” It came out as a strangled whisper as Willow looked onto the gorgeous beauty that stood in her doorway.

Tara stood staring at Willow. Remembering she was there for a reason she raised her eyebrows and asked.
“Can I come in?”

“Oh yeah, …sure, sorry…I just. Please come in.” Willow said as she removed herself from the doorway and let Tara in.

“Oh wow.” Tara exclaimed as she looked around the room filled with flowers and cards.
“Makes this seem kinda insignificant.” Tara said as she sheepishly pulled out a single red rose from behind her back and offered it to the redhead.

Willow’s smile could have light up an entire theater. “Tara I love it.” Willow took the rose and brought it to her nose to smell it’s sweet scent. “And what you did, the play… I…” Tears started to well in Willow’s eyes, she just couldn’t explain what it meant to have Tara play for her.

“Shh.” Tara placed her finger on Willow’s lips and moved her other hand to stroke Willow’s face. “I love you, and if you’ll give me a second chance, I promise I will show you how much.”

“Tara you don’t need a second chance. I would love for us to start over and this time I’m going to do things right.”

“Willow you didn’t do anything wrong. I just needed to sort some things out. I just…we need to talk, but can we not do it right now. I just want to be with you.”

“Sure. Baby?” Willow asked hopefully.

“Yeah sweetie?” Tara responded without a second thought.

“Just checking.” Willow smiled at Tara. “Will you go with me to the cast party?”

“Of course I will.” Tara smiled back. The two just stood there grinning at each other basking in a new sense of love.

“Um…so I need to change.” Willow said hating to break her gaze with Tara.

“Oh…right…I’ll just go find Donnie.” Tara said making her way toward the door. She paused with her hand on the doorknob and slowly turned back toward Willow. Willow stood in the middle of the dressing room, still holding the single rose Tara had given her. Tara thought she had never seen anything so beautiful. Tears formed in the back of Tara’s eyes as she made her way back toward Willow.

Willow saw Tara pause at the door and cocked her head to one side in a question as Tara walked back toward her. Her breath hitched as she saw pure love reflected in the azure pools in front of her. She held her breath as Tara stood a few inches from her face. Tara’s hand slowly made it’s way up to her forehead. The soft pads of Tara’s fingers, barely touched Willows hair line, but it was enough for Willow to let out the shuddering breath the had been holding. Tara’s fingers ever so slowly made their way from Willows forehead down her jaw line coming to rest on her chin. The touch was so light, but Willow felt like it had sent electric shocks to every nerve ending in her body. She was doing everything in her power to remain standing. She had closed her eyes when Tara’s hand started moving, and now opened them when her hand stopped. She gazed into Tara’s soul and it spoke to her own. A silent understanding, and commitment they both knew deep inside even though it had yet to make itself known.

Both women leaned in and lightly pressed their lips to one another. Neither deepening the kiss, both marinating in the soft luxurious feel of the others lips. Tara stepped back and once again made her way to the door and walked out.

“Oh My God!” Was all Willow could say as she stood shocked in her now empty dressing room.

***---***---***
Tara caught up with Donnie, Carrie, Faith and Dawn on the stage.

“So T how’d it go?” Faith smirked.

“Good.” Tara shyly smiled. “Better than good.”

“So you’re not gonna freak out on her again?” Donnie asked.

“No.” Tara playfully smacked her brother. “Besides I told you I had to take care of some things, and I did, so I am now completely unattached and free to love who I want.” Tara said with a content smile. “So are you going to join us?”

“Nah, gotta get the squirt here home.” Donnie said as he rustled Carrie’s hair.

“Dad! You’re gonna mess it up.”

“Um…I kind of need a ride, Buffy had to take off something about work, and we rode with her.”

“Dawn and I can drop you off on the way to the party.” Faith said. Dawn scowled, she really wanted to see how things turned out with Tara and Willow, but knew deep down Faith was right and they needed their privacy.

“I’ll just wait here for Willow.” Tara said as the gang left.

Tara stood on the stage facing the empty seats. She had never really been on stage before, always being in the pit away from the audiences view. She could imagine what Willow felt when she was on stage, being able to bring characters to life. To give something to the audience, make them feel something so powerful, with just her words and actions.

“Hey beautiful.” The sweet voice engulfed Tara as it echoed in the empty theater.

“Hey you.” Tara said turning to see a stunning Willow in tight jeans and an even tighter green top.

“Everyone leave?”

“Yeah.”

“Well I’m glad your still here, I kinda need a ride?”

“Really, what happened to your car?”

“Ah…well…you know the whole stuck in a window thing?”

“Yes.” Tara smiled at the image of Willow hanging out of the window.

“Well that was after I thought it would be a good idea to use my tiny key to open a huge metal door.” Willow said guiltily as she held up half of her key.

Tara laughed out loud. It had been so long since she had really laughed and it felt great. Willow joined in as well, it was contagious.

“Come on you.” Tara said as she interlaced her fingers with Willows.

Willow was pulled along in a Tara induced haze. She would follow this woman to the ends of the earth if she asked.

***---***---***
The cast party was in full swing. Willow made her way through the crowd, chatting with those who stopped her. She wasn’t really paying any attention to the people who spoke with her, her attention was on the amazing blond in the corner of the room.

Every time she would look at Tara and Tara would look back and smile, warmth would flow through her veins making it impossible for her to concentrate on anything. She didn’t particularly notice when a familiar face trotted up to her.

“Hi Willow!”

“Hey, Julie right?”

“Yeah. So listen so sorry about cutting the interview short. I was wondering if I could make it up to you by taking you out to dinner, we could finish it then?”

Willow’s gaze was locked on Tara, who had now turned and was talking with Faith. Julie followed Willow’s gaze and smirked.

“Um..Sure just call me later this week.” Willow said and handed Julie her card.

“Thanks Willow, I’ll call you later.” Julie said and again made a quick get away.

“Excuse me, could I have everyone attention for a moment!” Oz yelled as he stood on a chair and clinked his glass with a spoon. It took a few seconds for everyone to quiet down and turn their attention to him.

“Thanks. I wanted to thank everyone for a wonderful evening, you all were fabulous.” He paused while everyone clapped. “And because of your great performance, we have been asked to go on the road!” Everyone clapped and hollered their excitement. Oz’s eyes locked with Faiths and they held each others gaze grinning like mad. Tara noticed this and cocked an eyebrow at Faith.

“What?”

Tara motioned with her head at Oz and raised her eyebrows again.

“Well he asked me out and I said yes. Big deal.”

“You and Oz, really?”

“Yes really.” Faith said sounding more than annoyed.

“Hey, no, I mean, it’s just… he doesn’t really seem like your type.”

“And what type would that be?” Faith questioned.

“Um…not Oz type?” Tara meekly said.

“There’s just something about him. He is cute, shy and funny, in a weird sort of way, but I like him so I’m willing to see where this goes. Which is more than I can say for you.” Faith said but smiled so Tara knew she was kidding.

“Hey I’m working on it alright.” Tara smiled at Faith who smiled back, but then narrowed her eyes as she looked over Tara’s shoulder. “What?” Tara asked. Faith moved her head to get a better view of a girl she hoped to God wasn’t Julie. But the girl had vanished.

“Nothing, just thought I saw someone I knew.”

[Zampsa1975]

Yay for great update-y goodness... Liked the W/T meeting at the Willow's dressing room... I really really really hope that there is no Julie trouble... Faith should really kick her ass...

[jay/wt4evr]

kinda on the 'kick Julie's ass' wagon too...hope she doesn't do too much trouble
great update!

[LittleBit]

ooh just when things look like they are going good ... Julie appears! I cannot wait to see who tackles her first ... Faith, Buffy or Donnie!

[EvilKittycatofdoom]

Bad evil julie Faith should totaly kick her ass <---- its so cute

[eday69]

It's been so long since I have updated and I feel bad. I am actually working on a different fic which has eaten into my time, but here we go with Ch 19.

Chapter 19

Buffy brought her truck to a stop out front a housing complex and quickly found her partner’s car and jumped in.

“So what’s up?”

“’Bout time you got here.” Dan said looking at his watch. “Got a tip he’s hiding out here.” Dan said as he pointed to a building.

“Is back up here?”

“Yeah some local boys headed around back, tipster was pretty vauge, it’s probably nothing anyway, but thought we should check it out.”

“So what are we waiting for?”

“Just you, let’s go.”

Buffy and Dan made their way up the steps and rapped on the door. An elderly man answered the door.

“Good Evening sir, Agent Buffy Summers FBI” Buffy said as she flashed her badge. “This is my partner Agent Dan Sadler, I wanted to ask you if you had ever seen this man?” Buffy held out a picture of Issac.

“No ma’am, can’t say that I have.”

“Do you mind if we come in and ask a few more questions.”

“Sure.” The gentleman opened the door to allow the two agents in.

“Sir.” Dan started.

“Oh please call me J.R.”

“Okay, J.R. We have had a tip that this man was seen around this residence. Could you look at the picture again and make sure you haven’t seen him in passing?”

“Sure agent, but I assure you I have no idea who this man is. Have a look around for yourselves.”

“That won’t be necessary, that’s all we needed. Thank you for your time.” Dan said. Buffy had been walking around the house to see if she found anything suspicious. “Buffy.” Dan called to her.

“Yes thanks for your time sir.” Buffy said as she and Dan made their way to Dan’s car.

“I’ll radio to the locals, let ‘em know they can take off.” Dan said as he pulled out his radio.

“Damn it, I had such a good feeling about this one.” Buffy said as she rubbed her temples with her hands. “Why can’t we find this guy?”

“We’re gonna find him. It just takes time.”

“Yeah how many more kids does he have to kidnap, rape and kill for us to find him. You know every hour that goes by the more difficult it will be to find Casey alive.”

“I know.” Dan said as he looked down at the dashboard.

“I guess I’ll head home, or to Wil’s and try to get some sleep. I’ll call you tomorrow morning.” Buffy said as she reached for the car door.

***---***---***

Donny sat up watching some late night T.V. Watching was the wrong word, it was more sitting starring at the screen not paying attention to what was on. He hated waiting, it was tearing him up inside. Where was Casey, was she hurt, cold, dead. He shuddered at the last thought in his head. He lifted his gaze when he heard the scampering of little feet. He looked up to see Carrie running toward him.

“Dad where’s Buffy?”

“She’s at work, why aren’t you in bed?”

“You need to call her right now?”

“Sweetie, she’s working I can’t interrupt her.”

“Dad Casey said Buffy was close, she could hear her, I need to talk to her.”

“Wait, honey it was just a dream. Casey isn’t here.”

“Dad I know! I was sleeping, but then I woke up. Casey told me she could hear Buffy, she was close!” Carrie was now screaming at her father, pleading for him to understand.

“Casey has never met Buffy how does she know what she sounds like?”

“Dad for God sakes let me talk to Buffy.” Carrie was now screaming and crying at her Fathers inability to understand.

“Ok, ok I’ll call her. Just calm down.” Donnie said as he made his way toward his cell phone.

Buffy had entered her car and was getting ready to pull away when she felt her PDA vibrate. She saw it was Donny and answered.

“Hey Buffy, I’m so sorry to call you when you are working, but Carrie needs to talk to you. She’s kind of hysterical, I didn’t know what to do.”

“Donny it’s ok, I’m done anyway. Put her on.”

“Buffy, Casey said she heard you. You were close to her.”

“What? When?”

“Just a few minutes ago, she told me she heard you?” Buffy furrowed her brow trying to figure out what was going on.

“How?”

“I hear her in my head sometimes when we don’t want anyone to know we are talking. She knows you because I know you, and she said she heard you.” Carrie desperately tried to relay the information in a manner Buffy would understand.

“Ok, ok hold on.” Buffy was still trying to figure everything out. “Can you talk to her now?”

“Um...hold on.” Donny watched as Carrie closed her eyes then opened them. “Yeah she is still there.”

“Ok ask her if she can see anything, are there any windows, can she see out the window.”

“Ok.” There was a pause. “She said there is a little window she can see a sign that says Use”

Buffy looked around at her surroundings looking for a sign that said use. “I don’t see that Carrie, can she see anything else?”

“No, she said you have to hurry she said he will be back soon. Please Buffy hurry she is so scared.” Carrie cried on the phone.

“It’s ok Carrie, I’ll find her, you need to calm down.” Buffy jumped out of her car and walked around to the alley behind the housing complex. She scanned the alley for a sign containing the word use. She walked further in the back, accidentally tripping over some trash from a building opposite the housing complex. Several items spilled out of the bag into the alley.

“Buffy you have to hurry, Casey said she heard something, he is coming back.”

“Tell her it’s ok.” Buffy looked up at the door to where she had just fell. The sign above it said Merlin’s House. Then it clicked Use was the end part of House. Buffy looked opposite the sign trying to see where Casey could have seen it. She noticed a small window, leading to the basement of the house she was just at. She glanced around and found an old blanket lying with the pile of trash.

“Tell her to stand away from the window.” Buffy said into her headset. She placed the blanket close to the window and kicked it in. She heard the sounds of shattering glass and quickly bent down and shined her flashlight in the window. She saw huddled in the corner a small girl, dirty and scared.

“Carrie I need to hang up now and call my partner, Casey is ok, I’m here and I have her.” Buffy quickly hung up and jumped in the window.

“Casey it’s ok, my name is Buffy and I am with the police.”

“I know.” Was all the little girl could say as she hugged Buffy. Buffy held the girl and dialed Dan’s number.

“Dan I found Casey, basement of the house we were just at. I need backup.” Both her and Casey heard footsteps coming from upstairs.

“He’s here.” Casey cried.

“Dan he’s here, hurry!” Buffy said as she hung up the phone. “Casey I need you to hide ok.” Buffy quickly looked around. “Over there between those boxes ok.” Casey nodded and ran toward the boxes. Buffy stood gun drawn toward the staircase. Isaac made his way down but stopped when he heard Buffy’s voice.

“Don’t move, hands in the air.” Isaac complied but started moving down the staircase.
“I said stop.” Buffy yelled as she moved more into the light so Isaac could see her. “It’s over Isaac.”

“What are you gonna do detective, shoot me? Then you’ll never know where the other one is”

“You son of a bitch.” Buffy said as she ground her teeth together. “and it’s agent not detective.” Buffy remarked. “The place is already surrounded, you better give up now.”

“Oh I don’t know, agent.” Isaac remarked as he walked closer to Buffy and now brought his hands down to his sides. “Either way Agent, it will end badly for you.”

“I said don’t move, and put your hands up.” Buffy said her gun still aimed and steady at Isaac.

“One of us will be walking out of here, if it’s you that means I am dead and you will never find the other girl. If it’s me, that means your dead. So you see Agent it’s a no win situation for you. As a matter of fact, I think I will just make that decision for you.” He quickly reached for his gun that was tucked in the back side of his pants. Buffy got two shots off before she felt a sharp pain radiate from her chest as she fell backwards. She clutched her chest with her left hand and felt blood seep onto her fingers. The last thing she saw before darkness claimed her was Casey looking frightened crouched between the boxes. She wanted to call out that she was sorry for not being able to save the little girl, but it was too late and she fell unconscious.

[jay/wt4evr]

dibs

[Zampsa1975]

Yay for great update-y goodness... I hope Buffy is not too seriously injured and they are able to find the other missing kid...

[LittleBit]

what a great little update ... very intense and action packed!

[eday69]

Wow it's been 5 months since I started writing this. So I really thank everyone for reading, it will be finished...eventually

Chapter 20

Tara watched Willow out of the corner of her eye. Each had been making shy glances at each other from across the room all night. Her full attention turned to Willow, when she saw Willow’s eyes light up and she ran across the room to the door. A tall handsome man stood at the door way and as Willow approached he stuck his arms out and caught the redhead as she flew into his arms and wrapped her legs around his back. Her hands flew into his dark hair and she placed thousands of kisses on his face. Jealousy coursed through Tara’s veins as she witnessed this show of emotion. As if sensing her distress Willow dropped from the mans arms and turned to face Tara. She saw the look of jealousy and sadness in Tara’s eyes so she grabbed the mans hand and started toward them.

Thoughts of all sorts ran through Tara’s brain as Willow and the man made their way toward her. She was silently panicking until Willow spoke and placed a gentle hand on her arm.

“Tara baby? I’d like to introduce you to someone.” Tara turned toward Willow and the man.

“This is Xander, my bestest and longest friend ever.” Willow beamed as she gestured toward Xander. Tara let out a sigh of relief as she stuck out her hand. “Xander this is Tara, my um…” Willow wasn’t sure what to call Tara, they hadn’t really had a chance to talk.

“Girlfriend.” Tara finished as she firmly grasped Xanders hand. “It’s so nice to finally meet you. I have heard a lot about you.”

“Well not all of it’s true…ok actually probably most of it’s true.” Xander said as he looked Tara up and down. “Wow Wills, you can sure pick em’. So this is the girl who has you all love sick.” Tara and Willow both blushed. “Too love sick to come and visit I might add.” Xander made the last jab with a smile on his face.

“I know Xand, but you know how the biz is. And I’ve been working on this software, it’s so cool you’ll have to see it. See you take” Willow was interrupted by the vibration of her cell phone. “Hold on.” Willow apologized and took the call.

Tara looked at Xander trying to think of something to say. The only thing that came to her mind was rehab, and that was something she wasn’t going to bring up. Unfortunately she didn’t have the chance, as Willow gasped both Xander and Tara turned toward the redhead. Willow looked at Tara with fear and sadness in her eyes before they rolled back in her head. Tara reached to grab Willow’s hand and succeeded in slowing her fall. Luckily Xander was there to guide the petite actress to the floor.

Tara noticed the phone still on in Willow’s hand. She picked it up while Xander tried to wake Willow.

“Hello?” Tara spoke into the phones speaker. “Donnie? What’s going on?”

“Tare, they found Casey.”

“That’s great Donnie.” A smile crept over her face. But Donnie didn’t sound happy, so Tara repeated herself. “What’s going on?”

“It’s Buffy, she’s been shot, we’re at the hospital now, they wanted to check out Casey too, she’s fine, but Buffy.” Donnies voice caught in his throat. “She’s in surgery now.”

“It’s ok, we’re on our way.” Tara hung up the phone just as Willow was coming to. Willow gazed up through the haze to see Tara, a smile broke out on her face at the beautiful site. It was short lived as everything came crashing back down on her.

“Oh God Tara! Buffy! We…”

“I know babe, let’s go. Xander can you help Willow to my car, I’ll explain on the way.” Tara said as she reached for Willow’s other arm.

As the trio made their way to the hospital they caught Xander up on all the details. As they entered the hospital ER they made their way up to the reception desk.

“We need to see Buffy Summers.” Willow said more calmly than she felt.

“Hum…Buffy…Buffy…ah she’s still in surgery, the doctor should be out soon.” The nurse said from behind the counter. Willow turned to Tara with a helpless look on her face.

“How about Casey MaClay?” Tara stepped in.

“Yes, she is in room 423. Down the hall, take a left and the room is on the right.”

“We’ll be in that room, please notify us the minute Buffy is out of surgery.”

“Yeah yeah, I’ve already been told.” The nurse replied rather curtly. After the three received their visitor badges they made their way toward Casey’s room. As they entered the young girl leapt off the bed and ran toward Tara.

“Aunt Tara!” She squealed as she tightly hugged Tara.

“Hey sweetheart, how are you feeling?” Tara asked as she smoothed the girl’s hair.

“I’m fine!” The girl shrugged. “That’s Willow right?” She asked pointing behind Tara’s back.

“Oh yes.” Tara said as she stood up, this is Willow and Xander.” Tara introduced. The girls snickered.

“That’s a funny name.” Carrie said from the other side of the room where Casey had joined her.

“I suppose it is.” Xander said feeling a little odd to hone in on a family moment. Donnie stood and made his way toward them. Tara hadn’t noticed him when she came in and when she did she had to muffle a gasp. Donnie looked horrible, she thought he had been bad after Marie left, but this was 10 times worse than what she saw in Washington. He approached Willow first and wrapped her in a hug. He whispered in here ear. “I’m so sorry.” Willow had to bite her lip to keep from crying and just nodded her head. Donnie then turned to Xander and stuck out his hand.

“I’m Donnie.”

“Xander.” Xander said taking his hand in a firm grasp. Not knowing what else to say he released Donnie’s hand and took a few steps back.

“Do you guys mind watching the girls for a moment, while Tara and I go for a walk?”

“Nope.” “Sure thing.” Xander and Willow said in unison.

They walked down the hospital halls in silence for a while before Tara spoke.

“What are you feeling Donnie.”

“I don’t know, I mean I am so happy about Casey, but Buffy. She risked her life to save my little girl, and what if she doesn’t make it. I … she just has to, I have to tell her how grateful I am, and I don’t know what I’ll do without her.” The last part was barely above a whisper as Donnie looked down at the floor and wrung his hands together.

Tara touched his shoulder. “She’s gonna be ok.”

“You don’t know that. It’s weird you know. The whole time Casey was gone, I was sad, but I always just had this feeling everything was going to be fine. But this time, all I feel is this hole inside, like everything has been ripped out of me. A shell, I feel like a shell. I’m going through the motions, but I can’t feel anything.” Tara watched her brother and silently gave him support as he broke down in tears.

Everyone sat around the hospital room talking and laughing. It felt good to joke around with family Tara thought.

“I can’t believe Dad did that.” Casey said.

“Oh he did, his face was smurf blue for 3 days.” Tara said as she smiled at Donnie, who weakly smiled back.

“I need some air.” Willow said abruptly as she stood and walked out the door.

“That was weird.” Xander commented.

“I should go check on her.” Tara said as she followed Willow out the door. She found Willow sitting on a bench outside the ER doors. She sat down next to the redhead. “Are you ok?”

“Yeah, It’s just…I am so happy that Casey is back, but I can’t feel that happiness while Buffy is lying on some operating table. She’s the only family I have, what happens if she doesn’t make it.”

“Hey she is going to make it.” Tara placed her hand on the redheads back. “And she isn’t your only family, we all are. I am your family. I know you may not believe me right now, especially after all I have done, but I’ll always be here for you.” Willow nodded but didn’t look up.

“I’m scared.” Willow said in almost a whisper.

“I know sweetie, but Buffy is strong, she’s going to get through this.” Tara said as she ran her fingers through Willow’s hair.

“I know, but not just about that.” Willow said finally raising her head to look at Tara.

“What is it? What are you scared of?” Tara questioned.

“It’s just…When I met you, you turned my life upside down. I never knew I could love someone so much. Never knew I could feel like that, it was the best time of my life. Then it was gone.” Tara’s eyes filled with tears and she opened her mouth to say something, but was cut off by Willow. “I had never felt that awful in my whole life. I felt numb, I couldn’t eat, couldn’t sleep, the only thing that kept me going was the thought that someday you might let me prove how good we can be together. And I understand why, you were scared, just like me and you had to figure some stuff out, and I get that. I just don’t know if I could ever go through that again.”

“Willow please, I know you have no reason to believe me, but I am never going to hurt you again.” Willow had stopped looking at Tara and looked down at her own hands. Tears flowed freely down Tara’s face as she stared at Willow waiting for any response from the redhead.

“I think I have to believe you, because I am totally in love with you Tara.” Willow said as she looked up into Tara’s eyes.

“Oh Willow” Tara fell forward and embraced Willow in a tight hug. Willow buried her face in Tara’s neck and inhaled the scent that had haunted her since the first night they spent together. After a few moments Tara spoke again. “Why did you quit acting?”

“I just wasn’t into it ya know. You know how you feel when you play?” Tara nodded. “I never felt that with acting. I was good at it sure, it was my whole life, I mean I grew up with it. It was just something I did. It gives me no sense of accomplishment, I don’t have to try, it’s just something that was always there. People defined me by my acting, and that was fine for a while. But you made me see something no one else has made me see. Myself.”

Tara smiled in understanding and reached out to take Willow’s hand. “Come on, let’s see if there is any change with Buffy.” Willow accepted the invitation and stood with Tara keeping hands held they made their way back into the hospital.

Both women walked in to Casey’s room and saw Donnie pacing back and forth.

“any news?” Tara asked.

“No, and now we gotta leave, Casey is fine, and they need this room.” Donnie balled his hands into fists and clenched his teeth. “They’re not telling us anything. I mean what the hell is going on with Buffy, is she ok, will she be ok, they can’t even tell us a damn thing!” He looked around for something to hit, finding nothing he clenched his fists so hard his knuckles turned white. Tara sensing her brothers frustration quickly diffused the situation.

“Hey, how about I take Casey and Carrie home and you and Willow can stay here.”

Donnie took a deep breath. “Okay.” He then turned to his girls. “Do you guys want to go to aunt Tara’s house?” Both girls nodded a little shaken by their fathers display of anger. Neither had seen him so angry before.

Donnie sat in the waiting area with his head in his hands. Willow sat next to him, her legs pulled up to her chest, her eyes staring blankly ahead. Neither notice the man that walked up to the reception desk until he spoke. “Agent Dan Lerey, I need to know the status of Agent Buffy Summers.” He said as he flashed his FBI card. Donnie immediately stood up and made his way toward the reception desk. The receptionist eyed Donnie before looking back at Dan.

“Agent, maybe I should take you to a private room and have the doctor talk to you.”

“Hell no!” Donnie shouted. “There is no way you are telling him what is going on and not me.”

“Sir this is official FBI business, I am afraid my hands are tied.” The receptionist explained and looked at Dan for help.

“No, no, no that’s not gonna work. You’re not going to let me sit here while god know’s what is happening to the woman I love!” Donnie yelled, his voice cracking with emotion. Two large security guards started to make their way toward Donnie.

“Hey man.” Dan stepped between the security guards and Donnie and put it hand up, stopping the security guards. “Calm down, I’ll let you know what’s going on when I find out ok?” Donnie looked at Dan and back at the security guards. As much as he didn’t like it, it was the only thing he could do.

“Please.” He said in a small voice before looking at the ground.

“Don’t worry, I’ll come right out and let you know. Ok?” Dan said and placed his hand on Donnies shoulder. Donnie just nodded and walked back to where Willow sat watching the whole thing. He let out a long sigh.

“You love her?” Willow asked, her voice a little scratchy.

Donnie turned to look at Willow. “I do. And I know it’s a really bad time for everything, but I can’t help how I feel.” Tears started to form in his eyes and he looked up trying to keep them from spilling over. “I don’t know what’s going to happen, I just keep living minute to minute since this whole thing started. I haven’t had any time to just sit and think ya know? I mean, I know how I feel about Buffy, God I’ve never felt that with anyone else. I loved Marie, we were together since high school, it was…nice. But with Buffy I can’t even compare the two. Oh god, I don’t even know what I’m saying anymore, am I making any sense?”

“Yeah you are. Take it from someone who knows, the bad stuff happens, but only better things come out in the end.”

“Excuse me.” He said quietly trying not to interrupt the two. Both looked up at Dan and Donnie stood when he recognized him. “Um… Buffy’s out of surgery she did well. The next 24 hours are critical, but they think she’ll be fine.” Donnie lunged at Dan and engulfed him in a huge hug.

“Thanks for everything, really man, thanks.” Donnie said as he pulled away and shook Dan’s hand. “Sorry I’m Donnie Maclay.” Willow finally stood from her perch on the chair. She hadn’t moved for hours and now it felt good to stretch her legs.

“Hey Dan.” Willow said and gave him a hug, they had met briefly when Willow was shadowing Buffy, and Buffy talked about the redhead non-stop while they were on surveillance.

“Willow good to see you.” Dan said as he stepped back. “Listen Donnie, I know this isn’t the best time, but we need to see if Casey knows anything about Jeremy, the other kid Isaac took. I convinced the bureau to let her sleep tonight, but you’ll need to bring her down tomorrow morning so we can ask her some questions.” Donnie nodded his head. “I probably shouldn’t have done this, but I pulled some strings so one of you can stay with Buffy tonight. Room 285. I’ll talk to you guys later.”

Willow turned to Donnie. “You take it, I’ll head home and get some sleep. Tara and I can take Casey down to the station tomorrow if that’s ok.”

“Thanks Willow, for everything.”

[EvilKittycatofdoom]

Yay everyone is safe and happy and not dead

Yay willow/tara love

[Zampsa1975]

Yay for great update-y goodness... Good that Buffy survived the surgery and that Donnie confessed his feelings for Buffy, too bad Buffy didn't heard it yet... I hope they soon find the other kid and there is no more Julie trouble...

[LittleBit]

awesome update with just the right amount of emotion!

[eday69]

Sorry this is short, but I hate writing smut, I can never do it justice. I hope I don't disappoint.

Chapter 21

Willow found herself outside Tara’s house. She paced back and forth, trying to decide if she should knock. She couldn’t go back to her house, it was too empty, to void of anything. She felt so many emotions, to go back to an emotionless place seemed sinful. She made up her mind and forcefully stepped toward the door, only to have it open from the inside.

“You gonna stand out there all night?” Tara mused from inside the house.

“Uh…well no, I just didn’t know if you were sleeping or whatever.” Willow replied lamely.

“Commere.” Tara said as she grabbed Willows hand and drug her inside the house. When the door was shut, Tara pushed Willow against it with her body. She looked into green eyes and ran her hand through red hair. “I love you Willow, and nothing can change that. Not saying the wrong thing, not doing the wrong thing, and certainly not coming to my house at 2 in the morning. I told you, I am free, I can love you with my whole heart, and I plan on doing that as long as you will let me.” Tara brought her mouth up and kissed Willow soundly on the lips. She tried to pour everything into that kiss so Willow would know with out a doubt her feelings.

Willow was swimming in sensation from the feel of Tara’s hands in her hair, Tara’s body against hers, Tara’s lips on her own. Tara pulled back for a moment.

“Show me, show me how much you love me.” Willow pleaded. No other words needed to be said as Tara entwined her fingers with Willow and lead her to the bedroom. As they shut the door each embraced the other in a passionate kiss. It had been too long since they had been together and both were feeling the toll it had taken on their souls.

Tara quickly divested Willow of her clothes, leaving the redhead standing in front of the bed. Tara stood back to take in all that was Willow. Her petite frame, her soft pale skin reflected in the moonlight, her hair like dancing flames seemed to entrance Tara. She gently brought her lips to Willow’s stomach and proceeded to kiss every inch of skin. She moved up kissing Willow’s breasts, then she slowly took a nipple in her mouth and sucked.

This seemed all to slow for Willow’s taste, she was desperate to make love to Tara and Tara was just taking it too slow. Willow quickly backed away only to push Tara down flat on the bed. Willow immediately tore at Tara’s shirt and pants until she left the blond nude on her bed.

Tara looked into Willow’s eyes and saw the depth of her passion. Willow was looking at her in awe. Tara needed to feel Willow, on her, around her, in her. She pulled at Willows hands which hung at her side, so Willow stepped forward and met her on the bed. They embraced in a passionate kiss each woman’s hands in the others hair. Tara rolled so she was on top of Willow and continued her kissing down Willow’s body. Tara could smell Willow’s arousal, and made a b-line toward the source. She quickly looked up at Willow who had her head thrown back and her eyes closed. Every once and a while she would let out a moan of pleasure. Tara instantly took a long lick in between her lovers folds. She had her first taste of her Willow and she was quickly becoming addicted. She continued to maneuver her tongue to Willows pleasure, as she brought her hand up to join her mouth. She probed Willows entrance with two fingers before gently sliding in. She met with little resistance as she redoubled her efforts to bring Willow to climax.

Willow had grasped the sheets around her and balled them into fists as Tara engulfed her entire soul. Willow felt Tara’s love for her pour out of Tara into her. Every time Tara pumped in and out, Willow felt Tara’s soul. Willow felt it building inside her until she could no longer hold on. She let go as her body arched and convulsed, and conscious though left the redhead. She was simply feeling, letting Tara love her like no one else could. She felt their souls combine and part like the tides of the sea, until she felt Tara beside her holding her as she came down from her incredible high.

Willow looked into Taras eyes which shone brightly with unshed tears, which caused Willows eyes to tear as well. They both held each other silently giving themselves time to heal. Willow was the first to pull back fully intending to pay Tara back. Tara saw Willows movement and held her in place.

“Shh, can we just hold each other right now?” She asked in a voice so sweet and loving Willow had to hold back a fresh set of tears. Willow couldn’t answer so she just squeezed Tara tighter and buried her face in Taras neck. They feel asleep together, both healing and loving the other.

[Zampsa1975]

Yay for excellent update-y goodness... They both needed that loving moment to heal... I hope Willow tell Tar in the morning about her "interview" with Julie and Tara tells Willow that Julie is her crazy ex and doesn't want Willow to meet her...

[jay/wt4evr]

I hope for Goddess' sake that Julie ain't gonna' dare ruin their happiness!!!

[LittleBit]

that was a very sweet update

[eday69]

Chapter 22

Buffy began to regain consciousness, she first felt pain in her chest. Heavy like a truck was sitting on top of her. Next she felt her hand, someone was holding her hand and stroking the back of it with their fingers. She slowly opened her eyes and tried to focus to see where she was and who she was with. The first thing she saw was Donnie. He stared straight out the window, but she could tell he wasn't looking out the window. She saw pain etched across his sharp features, it hurt more than the pain in her shoulder, to see him so sad. She gently squeezed his hand trying to pour her love into him. The second she did that, his face snapped to hers and their eyes met.

"Buffy! Oh my God." Donnie yelled as tears started to form in his eyes. "Darling how are you? Are you in pain?"

Buffy tried to speak but was met with the dryness of her throat, and managed to muffle out a small cough. Donnie immediately jumped into action grabbing a glass and filling it with water. As Buffy drank the water she looked at Donnie whose expression was unreadable, hopeful, scared, she couldn't tell.

"I feel...kinda like I got shot." Buffy said as the events that put her in the hospital all came back to her. Her eyes got wide, as tears threatened to spill. "Casey!" She replied in a whisper.

"She's ok, they found her, safe and sound thanks to you." Donnie replied before Buffy could let the tears roll down her face. "Issac's dead Buffy."

Buffy sighed and looked down at the blanket covering her torso.

"Hey, you did great, you saved my little girl, you killed an awful, awful man he can never hurt anyone again."

"I know, but the other kid. We're never going to find him now, thanks to me." Buffy said in a hurt voice. Donnie could tell she would blame herself if the kid wasn't ok.

"Dan thinks Casey may have some useful information on how they can find the other boy. She actually should be at the station now. Don't worry, we'll find him, you just need to get better."

Buffy contemplated this information and resigned that there wasn't anything she could do anyway. She shifted and tried to put weight on her arm, only to receive a shooting pain into her chest. She grimaced and tried not to cry out. Her stoicism wasn't fooling Donnie.

"Let me go get a doctor to take a look at you."

"No wait." Buffy's voice stopped Donnie. "Come here." She said and motioned with her good arm for Donnie to return to his spot next to her bed. She ran her fingers along his face and looked into his eyes. "How long have you been here?"

"Since you got shot."

"The whole time?" Buffy asked amazed someone would stay at the hospital with her. But he was the only one she wanted to see right now.

"Well, Casey was here for a few hours while they checked her out, but yeah." He grabbed Buffy's hand and brought it to his mouth in a soft kiss. "Don't you know I couldn't leave you. I'm falling in love with you Buffy. Heck, I'm in love with you."

Buffy wasn't sure what to do other than let tears of happiness fall from her eyes. Donnie leaned over and gently kissed her lips. After a few moments of bliss Buffy replied.

"I love you too Donnie." Donnies smile could have lit up an entire theater. He placed his head on Buffy's lap content to just stare at the woman he loved. Buffy idly ran her fingers through his hair as they marinated in their mutual love. Neither wanted to move or let the moment go so they sat content for now, until the doctors came in needing to check Buffy.

“Donnie you need to go home, sleep, eat, possibly shower.” Buffy teased. She could see his reluctance to leave, and while she didn’t want him to either, she knew he had to. “Can you do me a favor though?” She asked and gave him a puppy dog look while the nurse changed the IV.

“Anything beautiful.” He replied and noticed the blush starting to appear on the nurses face as she kept her head down.

“Can you call Dan and Willow, tell them I’m fine and the sooner they let me out of here the better.” She directed her last comment towards the nurse who continued to keep her head down.

“Now Buffy, you need to rest darling. I’ll call and let them know you’re ok, but I’m coming back in a few hours.” He kissed her before he left fully intending to come back as soon as possible.

***---***---***

“I’ll talk to you later.” Tara said as she closed her cell phone. “That was Donnie, Buffy’s awake and doing really well.” Tara said as she turned to Willow.

The redhead visibly relaxed as all her worries floated away knowing her best friend would be ok. Tara and Willow sat hand in hand in the waiting area of FBI headquarters. Dan had taken Casey and Carrie into an office to question them about the missing kid.

“So I was thinking…” Tara started out and then stopped not actually wanting to bring the subject up, but it was too late.

“What baby?” Willow asked, her move vastly improved.

“Um…Well…I was thinking about…well you know for convenience and all…it really would be the responsible thing to do if…and don’t feel like you have to or anything but I thought…you could move in with me.” Tara finally spit it out looking at Willow with a mixture of fear and hope.

Willow eyes lit up as a grin spread across her face. “I would love to Tara, your house, it feels like home.”

It was Tara’s turn to grin as she pulled Willow to what started out a chaste kiss ending up in a passionate embrace. Willow let her mouth fall open and Tara instantly took advantage and forced her tongue inside Willows mouth. Willow moaned and entangled her hand in blond hair.

“Aunt Willow, Aunt Tara.” The two blond twins said as they saw their Aunt’s kissing passionately. They chuckled to themselves as the two adults pulled themselves apart. Willow knelt down so she was eye to eye with the girls. “You guys ready to go?” She asked as they both nodded. Tara watched the interaction and couldn’t help but think how Willow would be with their own kids. “Would it be ok if we stopped by the hospital to see Buffy?” She asked the girls.

“Yeah I have to thank her for saving me, she’s so cool.” Casey said.

The four ladies made a quick stop to get a card and a get well teddy bear for Buffy, before arriving at the hospital. Willow entered the room first, and literally ran to Buffy’s bed to engulf her in a huge hug.

“Woah Wil, still tender here.” Buffy said as Willow pulled back.

“I’m just so happy you’re ok. Buffy you are like my family, I don’t know what I would have done…”

“I know Wil, I love you too.” Buffy said. “I’m saying that a lot today.” Buffy muttered to herself, but Willow heard it too.

“So you and Donnie have a talk?” She asked raising her eyebrows.

“Hey standing right here.” Donnie exclaimed as he entered the room.

“Daddy!” Both twins yelled as they gave him a hug.

Everyone sat around talking about happy times and retelling old stories. It was like one big happy family. Suddenly there was a shrill ring from under the covers of Buffy’s bed. Buffy bluffed and pulled out her PDA, guiltily.

“I can’t believe they let you have that.” Donnie mused.

“They really didn’t have a choice.” A voice came from the nurse who was walking through the door. “Who knew FBI Agents could be so annoying. They just gave it to her to get her to shut up.” She teased.

Everyone looked at Buffy. She looked guilty but hid a sly smile beneath the guilt.

“Well it’s a good thing they did otherwise we wouldn’t know Dan found the other kid. Said Casey gave them almost exact directions to the cabin he was in.” Buffy said.

Everyone cheered with “That’s wonderful” and “Way to go Casey.”

The nurse not wanting to intrude cleared her throat.

“Visiting hours are over, so you guys need to say your goodbyes now.”

Tara turned to Willow. “You wanna stay over?” She asked

“Of course.” Willow replied both getting lost in each others eyes.

“They need to snuggle tonight.” Carrie teased the two.

“Yeah they need to be k-i-s-s-i-n-g.” Casey sang.

“Why don’t you take the brats to my place?” Willow said to Donnie while ruffling Carries hair.

They all said their goodbyes and left the hospital.

[love_2003]

Awesome update. Glad to see that Buffy and Donnie are finally telling each other how they really feel. The twins are so cute with their teasing. I am also happy to hear that Willow and Tara are moving in together. You write them so cute together.

Looking forward to the next update.

[jay/wt4evr]

Willow and Tara up on a tree K-I-S-S-I-N-G ....wait, where's Julie?? Someone needs to kick her ass!!
anyway great update as always

[Zampsa1975]

Yay for excellent update-y goodness... I agree with Jay for Julie ass kicking... Willow really need to tell Tara about Julie "interview" so that Buffy and Faith could go "educate" the bitch... Good that Buffy and Donnie talked and expressed their feelings for each other... Extra yay for Tara & Willow moving together...

[eday69]

Thanks for reading ya'll.

Chapter 23
Willow and Tara arrived home a short time later. Home, I like the sound of that. This is our home, I'm going to be living with the most amazing person on the face of the earth. How did I get to be so lucky? Willow internally mused as they got out of the car and Tara opened the garage door for her. Willow smiled at Tara but it was short lived as she turned in toward the house and saw Julie sitting on the couch.

"Julie? What the hell?" Willow stared at the journalist trying to figure out what she was doing in their home.

"Willow, I didn't know you lived here, I was looking for...Tara." She addressed the blond as Tara entered with some bags behind Willow. Tara immediately dropped the bags and grabbed Willow to back away from Julie.

"I didn't know you knew Tara." Willow said to Julie still trying to figure out what was going on and why Tara had taken a defensive stance toward the woman.

"Oh me and Tare go way back, don't we Tare." Julie said as she had now gotten off the couch and stood a few feet from Willow.

"I think you need to leave Julie." Tara said as her eyes shown with hatred for the other woman.

"Tara what's going on?" Willow asked now situated between the two women so they formed a half circle. Tara turned to Willow, her eyes softened at her love. She barely saw Julie move toward Willow and before she could warn her Julie had grabbed Willow from behind and brought out a knife from her boot and placed it at Willow's throat. "Willow!" Tara made a lunge for the redhead, but it was too late. Julie had her in her grasp.

Willow struggled but not for long as Julie pressed the knife into her throat, not cutting, just letting Willow know it was there. Willow remained silent trying to figure out what was going on. Then it all came to her, the knife, Julie knowing Tara, Tara's scar. Julie was Tara's ex. Willow remained quiet with her new found information sloshing around her brain.

Tara was scared, she couldn't see the love of her life taken away from her by Julie.

"Julie please let her go. She has done nothing to you, it's me you have the problem with."

Julie laughed. "I didn’t want to have to do it like this. I was gonna wait until our interview to tell you about her.” Julie looked from Willow to Tara. “Don't you see Tare, Willow and I are the same. It's you that has the problem. It wasn’t going to be like this, it was going to work out. Willow coming to her senses about you and then maybe you would learn, learn that you can’t just get away with hurting someone."

"What do you want Julie?" Tara asked calmly, but it was contrary to how she actually felt.

"I want you to see Tara. Do you see how you ruin peoples lives? Willow and I loved you, and you threw it all away. You treated us like trash and used us for your own sick games."

"I didn't Julie." Tara tried to rebuttal but Julie dug the knife more into Willow causing Willow to shut her eyes in pain, forcing Tara to stop. "Ok maybe I did. But you used me too Julie. We both used each other, we never should have been together it just wasn't meant to be."

"Do you see Willow, do you see the real Tara now?" She turned her attention back to Tara. "Who would want you now? This broken shell of a human you have become. It's sad Tara, it really is, you will never find love because you are incapable of loving. You use people and just throw them away. I am here to save you Willow, you may not understand it now, but I am helping you. I am giving you your life back, you would have spent years with Tara only to find out that she was using you and then you would feel like nothing. Years wasted on this woman and all for nothing. Don't you see, both of you, I am helping." Julie's voice now began to sound erratic and lost as she poured out words upon words meaning the same thing.

"Julie you're wrong." Willow said causing both other women to look at her. "I love Tara, just the way she is. I don't want her to change, I love her as she is, all the baggage and messiness of her life, I love all of it. I always did, I never stopped." Tara looked at Willow who's neck was still being cradled by Julie with the knife pressed up against it. Tara couldn't believe Willow would say such a thing and risk her life to show Tara and others her never ending love. Something behind Julie and Willow caught Tara's attention, the front door was slowly opening. Tara knew it could only be one person. She tore her eyes away and back at Willow to not alert Julie of the intruder. "Even if she does leave me in two years, it will still be the best two years of my entire life, and I wouldn't give that up for anything." Willow continued.

"NO! Don't you understand, I'm helping you!! Why put yourself through the pain, huh?! WHY!!" Julie dug the knife more forcefully into Willow's neck drawing blood. Willow let out a whimper at the pain. Then Julie felt her arm being pried from around Willow's neck, her hands being forced behind her back as she dropped the knife and found her face planted in the carpet. Julie struggled but knew she was being held down by a much stronger force.

Tara ran and engulfed Willow in a huge hug. Willow was still stunned at what happened she barely registered Tara's body flung on her and Tara's tears soaking her shirt. Tara pulled back to examine Willow's neck. The cut was bleeding, but wasn't deep. Willow pulled back from Tara and turned to see Faith sitting on top of Julie pinning her hands behind her back.

"Get off me!" Julie screamed and thrashed again finding new strength.

"Just give me a reason bitch, just give me a reason." Faith all but pleaded with Julie, Faith would have liked nothing more than to plunge the knife into Julie, but she refrained if only for Tara's sake.

Tara finally managed to get her wits about her, and ran to the phone to call 911. After the cops had taken Julie away and the EMT looked at Willow. Willow turned to Faith and gave her a huge hug.

“Thanks for everything Faith, you know saving my life.”

Faith returned the hug reluctantly “Yeah sure, um I was looking for any excuse to kick her ass. It’s no big deal.” Faith said trying to brush off Willows compliments.

“Really thank you Faith.” Tara said stepping back into the house and closing the door. Her eyes shown with gratitude for saving her soul mate. “Speaking of that, what are you doing here?”

“Well we had a few days off and Oz decided to treat me to a little trip back home.”

“Where’s the tour at now?” Willow asked finally extracting herself from Faith and immediately went toward Tara entwining their fingers.

“Ohio, so anytime spare time we have we can look at cows. It’s seriously boring there, I miss New York. I think Oz knew it so he bought me a plane ticket to come out for a while.” Her eyes glazed a little as she spoke of her man.

The three grabbed some tequila and heading out to the back porch to end their day.

***---***---***
Buffy was released a few days later. She had pulled every string she could to get her released so quickly after surgery, but she managed.

She and Donnie sat on the couch at Willow’s apartment. Buffy’s head in Donnies lap while he played with her hair. Willow had all but moved in with Tara the past few days so they had the place to themselves. Well almost to themselves, the two little blonds still were around.

“So you’re going back tomorrow?” Buffy said, not wanting to talk about it but needing to all the same.

“Yeah, feds got us tickets back to Washington.” Donnie looked glumly. “So what happens with you?” He reluctantly asked.

“I wish you wouldn’t call them that.” Buffy smiled before she sat up on the couch. “Well I need to finish up some paperwork, then I guess it’s back to California.” Buffy looked down at the floor and fiddled with the sling that held her arm.

“Well Washington and California aren’t that far away. The girls and I could probably come down some weekends.” Donnie looked hopefully at Buffy. He didn’t think he could take it if he couldn’t see Buffy again.

Buffy looked up at Donnie. “Really? You would come down just to see me?” Buffy was still trying to adjust to the idea that someone really cared for her.

“Of course, Buffy I love you.” Donnie moved so he and Buffy were sitting face to face. He took her good hand in his own. “I know we got together under some of the worst circumstances imaginable, but I feel something for you Buffy, something I have never felt before. It would be incredibly stupid for me to not try with everything I am to make this work for us.”

Buffy wasn’t sure what to say, so instead threw herself at Donnie and kissed him with passion. As the kiss escalated they failed to see two little blonds giggling and running back down the hallway to their room.

[jay/wt4evr]

dibs yippe
Ok, Julie out of their lives, happy ending now?

[Zampsa1975]

Yay for excellent update-y goodness... good that Julie got her ass kicked by Faith... I really hope Buffy & Donnie can find a permanent solution to their distance problem... Extra yay for Willow proudly confessing her love for Tara when Julie had a knife on her throat..

[eday69]

Ok this is it, the last chapter. Thanks for all the feedback you guys kept me going. I finished this in under a year, I'll consider that an accomplishment.

Chapter 24
6 months later.

Willow had sold her apartment and moved in with Tara. Tara got a job teaching music out in the country. Although Tara had no need to work with Willow’s income, she loved to be around the kids and that was one reason for taking the job. It was a bit of a drive to the school, but Tara loved her job and wouldn’t trade it for anything. Willow suggested they move closer to the school, while they both loved the house they were in, it was more practical. And as Willow had so lovingly explained through a series of babbled sentences, if they ever did want to start a family they would need more room. Tara loved the idea and thus started the house hunting.

Willow sauntered onto the back porch one Sunday morning tugging along her laptop, power cord and extension cord. Tara looked up from her magazine to watch her love struggle with the seemingly endless amounts of cords. Finally settled Willow logged into her computer, then sighed. Tara looked up again.

“What?”

“Forgot my coffee in the kitchen.” Willow sighed and moved the laptop from her lap and headed into the kitchen. When she returned Tara replied.

“Seems like a lot of work to bring that contraption out here.”

“I guess, but it’s a beautiful day, there is a beautiful woman out here, what more could I want. Maybe a new home.” She said more to herself as she started searching the internet for homes for sale.

Both sat in a comfortable silence as they continued their separate thing, but relishing in the comfort of just being together. The phone rang and Tara picked up the handset she had brought outside.

“Hello?” Willow looked up briefly before returning to her screen. She looked up again when she heard Tara squealed. “Oh my God when?”

“What what’s going on?” Willow asked. Tara shushed her with a wave of her hand.

“Donnie I can’t believe this.”

“What, what can’t you believe?” Willow questioned again getting agitated she was out of the loop. Just then her cell phone started vibrating. She looked to see Buffy who was calling. “Hey Buff, What’s up?”

“I’m getting married!” Buffy screamed on the other end.

“What Oh my God, when? To who? How’d it happen?” Willow babbled on as she made eye contact with Tara both smiling.

“To who? Oh my God Wil, how can you ask that. To Donnie of course.” Buffy sounded exasperated. “Seriously I gotta go, I have so much to do. Donnie will give the details to Tara.”

“But wait…” Willow said before she was hung up on. She looked up at Tara who was still talking to Donnie with a huge smile plastered on her face. Willow sat down in her chair, bouncing her legs up and down in anticipation. Pretty soon she found herself needing to get up, she had all this energy she needed to get out and Tara wasn’t helping. Finally after what seemed like hours, Tara hung up. “So when is it?”

“Two weeks.”

“Two weeks!” Willow yelled, before cupping her hand over her mouth, worried the neighbors might hear. “That’s totally not enough time to plan a wedding. And how come we didn’t know about it, and is Buffy moving, she has to be or is Donnie moving?”

“Darling, chill.” Tara said trying to keep her own excitement in check. “They wanted to do it before the girls went back to school. I don’t know much more than that. We need to get tickets out there though.”

“Oh I can do that.” Willow jumped into action finally feeling like she could do something, while she grabbed her laptop.

***---***---***
Several days later Willow and Tara arrived in Washington for the wedding. Everyone had a task to complete and people were all running around trying to make it happen on such short notice. Buffy arrived with a truck load of her belongings two days after Willow and Tara arrived.

Willow ran outside like a puppy when she saw Buffy pull up to the house.

“Buffy.” She said as she engulfed her friend in a huge hug. “Oh my God you are getting married!” Both women screamed at each other. Buffy held out her hand to show Willow the ring.

“It’s so crazy, I feel like I am walking in a dream. Everything is going so fast, thanks for all your help setting this up.” Buffy exclaimed.

“Hey quit hogging my fiancée.” Donnie joked as he came up behind Buffy and wrapped his arms around her waist. She immediately turned and a make out session ensuded.

“Yuck save it for the honeymoon you two.” Carrie said as she passed by the front door and looked outside. She loved to tease her soon to be step-mother.

“Hey!” Buffy joked back with her before returning to Donnie’s embrace.

That evening everyone sat out on the porch enjoying the evening. Tara and Buffy decided to turn in for the night leaving Willow and Donnie out side.

“So…um, when you asked Buffy were you nervous?” Willow asked.

“Yeah, I mean I knew she would say yes, well I didn’t, but I did, you know. But I was totally freaking out. There was so many things to think of. Would she want to move, would she want to be a mom. It’s such a huge thing I wasn’t sure if she would be up for it. We made it work after New York, we saw each other when we could. After we would part ways, I just felt so empty, it just seemed so unfair to have to live that way. I figured I should just ask and get it over with if she said yes then we could see each other every day for the rest of our lives. If she said no, well it would suck, but at least we would know where we stood and move on. Thank God she said yes, I really don’t know what I would do if she didn’t.” Donnie took another drink of his beer, only to realize it was empty.

“Ok so you were nervous. How was the actual asking part, I mean did you just say it, how did it feel.”

“Um, honestly I don’t really remember. I was so nervous and I think it just came out and before I knew it we were both crying and hugging, it was kind of all a blur you know.”

“Yeah…” Willow trailed off and looked out into the darkened sky.

“Why all the questions Wil?”

“No reason, just wondering.” Willow quickly answered.

“Well I’m gonna turn in, huge day, the day after tomorrow.” Donnie looked at his watch which read 1:32am. “I mean tomorrow. Man I’m getting married tomorrow.”

“You’ll be fine, Buffy is great.”

“Don’t I know it.” Donnie replied and left Willow on the porch.

***---***---***

The next day was filled with more of the same. Running around making wedding plans. Buffy insisted that Willow and Tara take a night on the town. Tara argued with her sister-in-law saying there was too much to be done. Buffy insisted that she and the girls could take care of it.

Tara was dressed and waiting for Willow by the front door.

“Seriously Buffy, there is still so much to do.”

“Seriously Tara there isn’t.” Buffy mocked back. “Besides you guys need some time alone, you have helped so much the past few days you need to re-connect.”

Just then Willow walked into the room. She was dressed simply with tight jeans and a nice top, but she always managed to take Tara’s breath away. Buffy was immediately forgotten as Tara gazed upon her love. Willow walked over and gave her a quick kiss on the lips. “You never cease to take my breath away.” Tara whispered as they pulled apart.

“Yeah you too.” Willow replied her brain not functioning very well at the moment. Ugh you too, can you be any less romantic. Although U2 can be quite romantic. Willow shook her head to regain her thoughts. “I mean you look beautiful.”

“Ok ok enough staring, more doing, out with you.” Buffy all but shoved the women out of the house.

“Do you have the feeling she was trying to get rid of us?” Tara asked as she interlaced her arm with Willow’s.

“Yeah maybe she and Donnie have a little smoochie fest planned.” Willow mused.

The women had a wonderful dinner and Willow suggested they drive along the coast. Willow pulled the car over at one of the many stops so they could look down on the cliffs of the coast. It was a clear cold night as they stood along the railing watching the waves crashing below. They could see the stars and the moon shown brightly. Tara scooted closer to Willow to keep warm and placed her head on Willow’s shoulder. Willow was anything but cold.

“Um Tara?” Willow asked.

“Yes my love?” Tara answered as she gazed out onto the darkened sea.

Ok no babbling, just say it and be done. Willow repeated in her head before she spoke. “Will you marry me?” Willow said as she pulled out a ring from her pocket and held it in front of them so Tara could see it.

Tara immediately removed her head from Willow’s shoulders and looked Willow in the eyes. Her eyes shown with unshed tears, Willow looked a mixture of worry and happiness. Tara realized she hadn’t answered.

“Of course I will, I love you Willow.” Then both let the tears flow as they met together in a passionate kiss. Willow felt her heart soar, she was going to make this goddess her wife. “Let me see that ring now.” Tara said as she pulled back from Willow.

Willow held out the ring and with shaky hands placed it on Tara’s finger.

“Sorry a little nervous.” Willow said.

“Why nervous? You thought I would say no?”

“Well no. I mean I though yes, but still sort of scary.”

“I was just teasing Wil, I would be too. Luckily I never have to now.” Tara smiled as she looked at the ring on her finger. “it’s beautiful Wil, this place is beautiful, you are beautiful.” Tara said as she turned back toward Willow.

“I don’t want to tell anyone, just yet, I don’t want to mess up the wedding or anything. I just thought it would be nice out here.”

“It’s perfect Willow, but I’m not taking the ring off.”

“Oh no, you never take that off young lady.” Willow teased finally beginning to realize what all went on. “Wow this is really happening.”

“I know, I couldn’t be happier.” Tara smiled as she placed her head back on Willows shoulder and both women gazed out onto the sea.

***---***---***

The wedding went off without a hitch, the ceremony seemed so fast and now everyone was proceeding to get drunk and party.

Willow stood and clicked her glass with a knife hoping to get every ones attention.
“Hi everyone.” Willow said as she waited for everyone to quiet down. “So I guess it’s customary for me to make a speech. Really there isn’t much to say. Buffy I can’t imagine a better person for you to be with, and Donnie same goes for you. You guys have been through so much, that I’m sure you can get through anything that comes your way in the future. Buffy I know you are wondering where your present is and I assure you I did in fact bring one.” The crowd chuckled. “Our gift to you, is your first dance as man and wife, featuring the love of my life, Tara on violin and the rest of the orchestra brought to you courtesy of my wonderful programming skills.” Willow pressed a key on her laptop which was hooked up to huge speakers. Tara raised her violin, which was attached with another cord to Willow’s laptop, and waited for Willows signal. Willow gave Tara a wink signaling she could start.

Tara’s wonderful violin playing filled the banquet hall, and soon was accompanied by the sounds of a symphony in the background. Donnie and Buffy smiled as he led her out to the dance floor and they started slow dancing to the classical music that was created by their family.

Willow smiled as she watched Tara play. There was nothing else she would rather be doing. The fact that Tara was playing with something she created filled her heart with so much love she thought it would explode. Every time Tara brought the bow of her violin up she could see Tara’s ring sparkle in the artificial light.

Tara loved playing, and had no doubt she would be playing at her brothers wedding. But Willow, her sweet lovely Willow, had created a program that allowed her to play whatever she wanted and be accompanied by an entire orchestra. She couldn’t believe Willow would do that for her. It made playing that much more enjoyable that she could share it with her soul mate.

Her eyes met Willows and each melted into each other. Fueled by the music, both felt their souls being lifted up and meeting in an intimate embrace. Their eyes dancing with love for each other. Their souls met and flowed with the beat of the music almost as if dancing. Although a good 50 feet away, the world fell away and all that was left were two souls dancing to Java and Violins.

The End

[Zampsa1975]

Excellent update-y goodness... Willow asking Tara to marry her without babbling was wow... Donnie's and Buffy's wedding was a really nice... Willow's wedding gift was really cool...

[WillowRulez]

I will miss this story. Thank you for taking us along on such a beautiful and sometimes bumpy ride What do you think about an epilogue?